The Project Gutenberg EBook of America:, by John Ogilby and Others This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. Title: America: Being the Latest, and Most Accurate Description of the Nevv Vvorld; Containing the Original of the Inhabitants, and the Remarkable Voyages Thither. the Conquest of the Vast Empires of Mexico and Peru, And Other Large Provinces and Territories, With the Several European Plantations in Those Parts. Also Their Cities, Fortresses, Towns, Temples, Mountains, and Rivers. Their Habits, Customs, Manners, and Religions. Their Plants, Beasts, Birds, and Serpents. With an Appendix, Containing, Besides Several Other Considerable Additions, a Brief Survey of What Hath Been Discover'd of the Unknown South-land and the Arctick Region. Author: John Ogilby and Others Release Date: June 13, 2019 [EBook #59745] Language: English Character set encoding: UTF-8 *** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK AMERICA: *** Produced by Richard Tonsing and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive) [Illustration: AMERICA] AMERICA: BEING THE LATEST, AND MOST ACCURATE DESCRIPTION OF THE NEVV VVORLD; CONTAINING The Original of the Inhabitants, and the Remarkable Voyages thither. THE CONQUEST OF THE VAST EMPIRES OF Mexico and Peru, AND OTHER LARGE PROVINCES and TERRITORIES, WITH THE SEVERAL _EUROPEAN_ PLANTATIONS IN THOSE PARTS. ALSO Their Cities, Fortresses, Towns, Temples, Mountains, and Rivers. Their Habits, Customs, Manners, and Religions. Their Plants, Beasts, Birds, and Serpents. WITH An _APPENDIX_, containing, besides several other considerable Additions, a brief Survey of what hath been discover’d of the _Unknown South-Land_ and the _Arctick Region_. Collected from most Authentick Authors, Augmented with later Observations, and Adorn’d with Maps and Sculptures, by _JOHN OGILBY_ Esq; His Majesty’s _Cosmographer_, _Geographick Printer_, and Master of the _Revels_ in the Kingdom of _IRELAND_. _LONDON_, Printed by the Author, and are to be had at his House in _White Fryers, M. DC. LXXI_. [Illustration] A Catalogue of the Authors, which are either mention’d, or made use of in this Volume of _America_. _Abraham Mellinus_ _Abraham Mylius_ _Adriaen vander Donk_ _Ælian_ _Albertus Magnus_ _Aldrete_ _Ælius Lampridius_ _Alexander Aphrodiensis_ _Alexander ab Alexandro_ _Alexander Guaginus_ _Alonso Garcia_ _Alonso de Ouagli_ _Andræas Cæsariensis_ _Angrin Jonas_ _Antonio de Herrera_ _Apuleius_ _Aristonicus Grammaticus_ _Aristotle_ _Athanasius Kircher_ _Augustinus_ _Augustin de Tarcate_ _Augustus Thuanus_ _Ayton of Armenia_ _Balthazar de Amizquita_ _Barnaba Cabo_ _Bartholomæo de las Casas_ _Benjamin Tudalensis_ _Caspar Barlæus_ _Castaldus_ _Charles Rochfort_ _Christopher Arcisseuski_ _Cicero_ _Claude de Abbeville_ _Clemens Alexandrinus_ _Conradus Gesner_ _Cornelius Nepos_ _Cornelius Witfleet_ _Ctesias_ _Curtius_ _Cyrianus_ _David Ingran_ _David Powel_ _Diodorus Siculus_ _Dionysius Halicarnassæus_ _Dirk Ruiters_ _Dithmar Blefken_ _Duarte Mendez Seraon_ _Egydius Fletcher_ _Emanuel de Moraez_ _Erasmus Stella_ _Erick Roothaer_ _Everhard Reid_ _Eusebius_ _Euthymius Zibagenus_ _Festus Avienus_ _Francisc. Burmannus_ _Francisc. Delapuente_ _Francisc. de Gomara_ _Francisc. Lopes de Gomesa_ _Francisc. Raphelingius_ _Francisc. Soarez_ _Francisc. Tirolmonte_ _Francisc. Xaverius_ _Fullerus_ _Galenus_ _Garcilasso de la Vega_ _Genebrardus_ _Gerardus Joannes Vossius_ _Guido de Brez_ _Guilielm. Piso_ _Guilielm. Postellus_ _Harmannus Moded_ _Henrick Haelbos_ _Henrick Hawks_ _Hernando de Leon_ _Herodotus_ _Hesychius_ _Hieronim. Benzo_ _Hieronim. Cardanus_ _Homer_ _Hugo Grotius_ _Hugo Linschot_ _Jacob Bontius_ _Jacob Panensis_ _Jacob Rabbi_ _Inca Garcilasso_ _Joannes Ardenois_ _Joannes Bertius_ _Joannes Chilton_ _Joannes Gysius_ _Joannes Johnstonus_ _Jean de Laet_ _Joannes de Ledesma_ _Joannes Leonclavius_ _Joannes Lery_ _Joannes Mariana_ _Joannes Nieuwhof_ _Joan. van de Sande_ _Joseph. Acosta_ _Joseph. Anchieta_ _Joseph. Scaliger_ _Isaacus Pontanus_ _Isaac. du Verne_ _Isidorus Mendes Sequera_ _Julius Cæsar_ _Julius Cæsar Scaliger_ _Lactantius_ _Lauren. Ananias_ _Lauren. Bikker_ _Lauren. Guascus Gerascius_ _Lauren. Keymis_ _Levinus Lemmius_ _Lieven Aizma_ _Lopez Vaz_ _Lucan_ _Lucretius_ _Lodowick Leo_ _Lysander_ _Manethon Persa_ _Marcus Zeno_ _Martin del Barco_ _Martin Perez_ _Matthæus van den Broeke_ _Matthiolus_ _Melchior Soiterus_ _Mich. Lithower_ _Michovius_ _Miles Philips_ _Moses_ _Nicolaus Zeno_ _Olympiodorus_ _Paulus Venetus_ _Pedro de Ancieta_ _Pedro Pizarro_ _Pedro Fernandez de Quir_ _Pedro Maria_ _Peter Martyr_ _Pedro Ordonnes de Cevallos_ _Peter van Gendt_ _Philo Judæus_ _Philippus Cluverius_ _Philippus Mornæus_ _Phylarchus_ _Piere Moreau_ _Pinedas_ _Plato_ _Pliny_ _Plutarch_ _Pomponius Mela_ _Proclus_ _Procopius_ _Quarterius_ _Rabbi Simeon_ _Robertus Comtæus_ _Sam. Purchas_ _Sebastiaen Schroten_ _Simplicius_ _Salust_ _Sigismond Baro_ _Strabo_ _Theodosio_ _Theopompus_ _Thevet_ _Tertullian_ _Trigaut_ _Vegetius_ _Virgil_ [Illustration] THE CONTENTS of the several CHAPTERS and SECTIONS. The first Book. America _unknown to the Ancients_ Fol. 1 _Of the Original of the Americans, whence they came, when, how, and from what People Planted_ 11 _First Discoverers of_ America, _with_ Christopher Colonus _his Expedition_ 43 Pedro Alphonso Nigno _his Voyage_ 56 _The Voyage of_ Vincent Agnes Pinzon 58 _The Expedition of_ Americus Vesputius 60 _The Expedition of_ Alphonso Fogeda, Diego Nicuesa, Ancisus, _and_ Roderick Colmenares 65 Peter Arias _his Expedition, and the remarkable Passages of_ Vascus Nunnez 69 _The Expedition of_ Francisco Fernandez, Lupo Caizedo, Christophero Morantes, Bernardo Igniguez, _and_ Juan Grisalva 76 _The Expedition of_ Ferdinand Magaglian, _commonly call’d_ Magellan 79 Ferdinando Cortez _his Voyage_ 81 Diego Gottierez _his Expedition_ 92 _The Expedition of_ Pedro Alvarado, Francisco _and_ Gonzalvo Pizarro, _and_ Diego de Almagro 95 _The Expeditions of_ John Stade _and_ Nicholas Durando Villegagnon 103 _The Expedition of_ John Ribald, Renatus Laudonier, _and_ Gurgie 105 _Four_ English _Expeditions, under the Command of our famous Sea-Captains_, Martin Forbisher, _Sir_ Francis Drake, Thomas Candish, _and_ John Smith 108 _A_ Netherland _Expedition, by_ Jaques Mahu _and_ Simon de Cordes 110 _The Expedition of_ Oliver van Noord 113 _The Expedition of_ George van Spilbergen 115 _The Expedition of_ Corneliszoon Schouten _and_ Jacob Le Maire 117 _The Voyage of the_ Nassavian _Fleet, under the Command of_ Jaques le Heremite _and_ Hugo Schapenham 120 Henry Brewer _his Voyage_ 122 The Second Book. _Of the Bounds of_ America, _and of the Division of the_ Mexican, Fol. _or Northern part thereof_ 125 Estotiland 126 Terra Laboratoris 128 Canada, _or_ New France 129 Accadia, _or_ Nova Scotia 133 Norumbegua 138 New England 139 New Netherland, _now call’d_ New York 168 _A new Description of_ Mary-Land 183 Virginia 192 _The Relation of Captain_ Smith’_s being taken Prisoner by_ Powhatan, _and his deliverance by his Daughter_ Pocahonta 202 Carolina 205 Florida 213 Jucatan 222 Guatimala 224 Vera Paz 227 Honduras 229 Nicaragua 232 Costarica 235 Veragua ibid. Guatimala, _properly so call’d_ ibid. _The Kingdom of_ Mexico, _or_ New Spain 238 Mechoacan 261 Tlascalla 264 Guaxata 268 Panuco 270 Tabasco 273 New Gallicia 281 Guadalajara 284 Xalisco 285 Chiametla ibid. Couliacan 286 Cinoloa 288 Zacatecas 289 New Biscay 290 New Mexico 291 Cibola, Tontonteac, _and_ Nova Granada 298 Quivira 301 Terra Nova, _or_ New-found Land, _with the Island of_ Assumption 304 _The_ Bermudas, _or_ Summer-Islands 311 Hispaniola 314 Porto Rico, _and_ Monico 327 Cuba 331 Jamaica 337 _The Islands call’d_ The Lucaies 344 _The_ Caribbee-Islands 345 Anegada _and_ Sombrero 362 Las Virgines 363 Anguilla ibid. Saba 364 St. Crux ibid. St. Martin 365 St. Bartholomew 367 Barboude 368 Rotonda ibid. Nevis ibid. Eustathius 369 Antego 370 Montserrat ibid. Guadalupe 371 Deseado 372 Marigalante ibid. Todos Sanctos 373 De Aves ibid. Dominico 375 Martinico 376 St. Lucia 377 Barbados ibid. St. Vincent 380 Bekia 381 Granada ibid. Tabago 382 St. Christophers 383 The Islands Sotavento, and the Isle Trinidado 387 Cubagua 388 California 389 The Third Book. A Description of Peruana or, Southern America Fol. 393 Castella Aurea, _otherwise call’d_ Terra Firma 394 Panama 395 Darien 399 New Andaluzia 400 St. Martha 403 Rio de la Hacha 405 New Granada 406 Granada 408 Popayana 409 Peru 412 Quito 441 Los Quixos 446 Lima 450 Cusco 456 Los Charcas 462 Collao 466 Chile 471 Chile, _properly so call’d_ 472 Magellanica 473 Paraguay, _or_ Rio de la Plata 475 Rio de la Plata, _properly so call’d_ 476 Tucuman ibid. La Crux de Sierra 477 Brasile ibid. St. Vincent 495 Rio de Janeiro 496 De Spirito Santo 497 Porto Seguro 498 Los Isleos 501 Bahia de Todos los Sanctos 502 Pernambuco 505 Parayba 508 Maragnan 511 _The Lordships_ Tamarica, Rio Grande, Siara, _and_ Para 517 _A Relation of the Proceedings of the_ Netherland West-India _Company in_ Brasile, _to the Year_ 1658 518 _The Journey of_ Rodulphus Baron, _with the Description of the Customs and Manners of the_ Tapuyans 595 Grave Maurice _his Account of_ Brasile, _so far as it concern’d the_ West-India _Company_ 600 _The Councellor_ Dussen’s _Relation of so much of_ Brasile _as concern’d the_ West-India _Company_ 601 _A Description of the Palace_ Freyburgh, _two Bridges, and a Banquetting-house, all built by_ Grave Maurice 605 Guiana 607 _A Relation of the Journey of_ Francisco Orellana ibid. Paria, _or_ New Andalusia 620 Cumana 621 Venezuela 624 _The Islands_ Margareta, Cubagua, _and_ Coche 627 _Of the Islands of_ Southern America 628 In the Appendix. Rio de la Plata Fol. 631 Chili 634 _A View of the_ Chilesian _Language_ 635 Magellanica 649 _The_ Unknown South-Land 653 Terra Borealis, _or_ The Arctick Region 661 _Several Attempts for the discovery of the_ North-West Passage 672 _A brief View of what Places are possess’d at this day in the_ West-Indies, _by the_ English, Spaniards, French, Portuguese, _and_ Dutch 674 [Illustration] [Illustration: Novissima et Accuratissima TOTIUS AMERICÆ DESCRIPTIO per JOHAHEM OGILUIUM Cosmographum Regium] [Illustration] AN ACCURATE DESCRIPTION OF AMERICA. CHAP. I. America, _unknown to the Antients_. [Sidenote: Description of the Ocean.] The Sea, that takes several Denominations from the Countreys which it washeth, and surrounding the dry Land, cuts out, and shapes so many winding Bays, Creeks, and Meandring Inlets, seems no where so much confin’d and penn’d into so narrow a Channel, as the _Straights_ of _Magellan_: From whence again, soon expatiating, it spreads it self into two immense, and almost boundless Oceans, that which opens to the North, gives terminaries to the four Regions of the Earth; that to the South, onely to _Asia_ and _America_; both which, indeed, are but one continu’d Sea, extending it self round the Universal Globe. This watry part of the World, that almost through all Ages lay Fallow, hath in these later times been Furrow’d by several Expert and Stout Captains, who now by their Art and Industry, have given a good Account of, and made clear Discoveries from East to West, where-ever the Sun rises or sets. The Northern Bounds under the _Artick-Zone_, have been hitherto so obstructed with Ice, that the undertakings of such as adventur’d either to find by the North-East or North-West a Passage to _India_, have been utterly frustrate. Of the Southern, no such pains hath as yet been taken in the Discovery, so that for the most part it is yet unknown how far the Water, either deep or shallow, overspreads the Earth, onely thus much Experience hath made out, that the _Antartick_ needs lesser Line to Fathom, than the _Artick-Ocean_. [Sidenote: The Ancients had little knowledge in Navigation.] The antient _Greeks_, _Phenicians_, and _Romans_, or whosoever that were Renown’d by Antiquity, and Listed in the number of their famous Navigators, were no less Timerous than Ignorant concerning Maritim Affairs, and are not fit to stand in the least degree of competition with our later Voyagers. [Sidenote: Navigation is very ancient.] Of old, by an inviolable Law, made by Custom, according to _Pliny_, _Vigetius_ and others, the Sea was lock’d up, from the eleventh of _October_, to the tenth of _March_, no Ships daring to venture forth, dreading short Nights, and foul Weather; neither in Summer, did they so much as once offer, unless driven by Storms, to attempt the _Offin_, or loose sight of Land; yet there is no question, but that several Nations in former Ages, made it their business, spending their whole time, and wearying themselves in the Practical Art of Navigation. [Sidenote: _Geograph._ lib. 1.] [Sidenote: _Hist. Nat._ lib. 2. cap. 67.] [Sidenote: _Ultima Thule_, suppos’d by some to be _Ireland_. _Vide Georgic._] [Sidenote: The Voyage of _Hanno_.] [Sidenote: Of _Eudoxus_, _Strab._ l. 2.] The Sacred Scripture testifies, That the Kings of _Judea_, _Solomon_, _Jehosaphat_, _Ozias_, and others, prepar’d several Fleets that Sail’d through remote Seas, freighting themselves with Gold from _Ophir_, and other Rarities, which were Imported to supply and enrich the _Holy-Land_. And _Strabo_ also tells us, That King _Solomon_ being contemporary with _Homer_, then discover’d _India_. And _Pliny_ relates, That the _Romans_, in the Reign of _Augustus_, passing the _Straights_ of _Gibraltar_, and sleighting the _Ne plus ultra_, Coasted _Spain_, _France_, and _Belgium_, leaving not at the Promontory of the _Cimbrians_ (now call’d _Shager-Riff_) but also ventur’d into the Northern Ocean, which washes _Norwey_ and _Lapland_: But long before this, as _Athenæus_ relates, _Phileas Taurominites_, a _Grecian_ Captain, and several others pass’d the _Herculean-Pillars_, penetrating the Northern Seas as far as _Britain_, and adventuring, made the first Discovery of _Thule_: And to the Southward the _African_ Coasts without _Gibraltar_, and beyond _Atlas_, were now and then explor’d by several expert Captains. But more remarkable is the Voyage of _Hanno_ a _Carthaginian_, who out-sail’d these, and inspected the Coasts of _Africa_, as far as the _Gorgades_: And _Eudoxus Cyzicenus_, flying from King _Lathyrus_, set Sail from the _Arabian_ Gulph, and passing the _Great-Cape_, came to an Anchor at last in the Mouth of _Gibraltar_, having discover’d all the Eastern, Southern, and Western parts of _Africa_. [Sidenote: Strange Voyage of some _Indians_.] [Sidenote: Of _Menelaus_.] Moreover, it deserves special observation, That an antient _Swedish_ King, as _Cornelius Nepos_ relates, sent as a Rarity and great Present to the _Roman_ Consul _Metellus Celer_, some _Indians_, who loosing their course, hatter’d up and down with perpetual Storms and stress of Weather, were at last driven into the Northern Ocean, where they suffer’d Shipwrack; yet saving themselves, Landed on his Coast: _Aristonicus Gramaticus_ relates, That _Menelaus_ Sailing from the _Sack_ of _Troy_, became so great a Voyager, that leaving the _Straights_, he surrounded _Africa_, and discovering _India_, after eight years re-measuring the same way he went, return’d with great Riches in safety to his own Kingdom: Which is consentaneous to _Homer_, who saith, _Odyss._ l. 4. ——_None must compare Mansions with_ Jove, _his Seats Celestial are: But with me any may, who eight years tost Through Worlds of Miseries from Coast to Coast, ’Mongst unknown Seas, of my Return small hope_, Cyprus, Phœnicia, Ægypt,[1] Æthiope, Sidon, Erembos _found, and_ Lybia, _where Their Lambs are horn’d, their Ews teem thrice a year._ ——Ἤτοι ζηνὶ βροτῶν οὐκ ἄντις ἐρίζοι. Ἀθάνατοι γὰρ τοῦ γε δόμοι καὶ κτήματ ἔασιν. Ἀνδρῶν δ’ ἤκεν τίς μοί ἐρίζεται ἠὲ, καὶ οὐκὶ Κτήμασιν; ἦ γὰρ πολλὰ παθὼν, καὶ πόλλ’ ἐπαληθεὶς Ἠγαγόμην ἐν νηυσὶ, καὶ ὀγδοάτω ἔτει ἦλθον Κύπρον, φοίνικην τε καὶ ἀιγυπτίους ἐπαληθεὶς, Ἀιθιοπάς θ’ ἱκόμην, καὶ σιδονίους καὶ ἐρεμβοὺς Καὶ Λιβύην, ἵνα τ’ ἄρνευ ἄφαρ κεραοὶ τελέθουσι, Τρὶς γὰρ τίκτει μῆλα τελευφόρον εἰς ἐνιαυτὸν. Footnote 1: The Commentators on _Homer_ have been very inquisitive to find out _Menelaus_ Voyage into _Æthiopia_. _Crates_ suppos’d that he pass’d out at the _Straights_, doubled the Southern _Cape_, and so arriv’d thither. _Eratosthenes_ conjectures, that in the time of _Homer_ the _Straights_ Mouth was an Isthmus, and the _Ægyptian_ Isthmus overflow’d by the Sea, which afforded him a shorter passage. But that is most probable which _Strabo_ delivers, that he then went to the borders of _Æthiopia_, when he pass’d up _Ægypt_ to the City of _Thebes_; the Borders of _Æthiopia_ being not far distant from thence in _Strabo_’s time, probably very near it in _Homer_’s. [Sidenote: Remarkable Voyage of an _Indian_ into _Egypt_,] [Sidenote: Of _Ptolemy_] [Sidenote: And also of _Cleopatra_.] That which the _Grecian_ Geographers relate concerning _Ptolomy Euergetes_, King of _Egypt_, is not to be forgotten, That sending Pilots, Commission’d to take the Soundings, and settle the Land-marks in the _Arabian_ Gulph, they found by chance a forsaken Vessel, onely in it one Man half dead, lying among several other breathless Bodies, of whom, being refresh’d with convenient Cordials, they enquir’d his Fortune, but he being unable to give them any present satisfaction, neither understanding what the other said, they sent him to the Court, where soon having got a smattering of Greek, he inform’d _Euergetes_, that he was a Native _Indian_, driven from their course into the place where they found him by stress of Weather, and that his company were famish’d, all their Provision spent in their Wandrings from their intended Voyage; Thus being kindly entertain’d, he also promis’d the King to open his Passage (if so he pleas’d) into _India_. The King slept not upon this Intelligence, but immediately prepar’d a Fleet Freighted with such Commodities as were advis’d; with which setting forth by the Conduct of this their _Indian_ Pilot, they Anchor’d in their desir’d Port, and brought the King in return from thence a rich _Cargo_ of Silk, Spices, costly Drugs, and precious Gems. _Cleopatra_, about sixty years after, intending not to lose the advantages reap’d by the former discoveries, equipp’d another and greater Navy; which passing through the Red-Sea, found the Stern of a Ship, on which was Presented a Horse, whereby some of the more knowing Sea-men judg’d, that it had been a _Gibraltar_ Vessel, and Sailing about _Africa_, there by sad accident suffer’d a Wrack. This Stern was afterwards set up, and fix’d as a Memorial in the Market-place of _Memphis_. [Sidenote: The _Venetians_ were the first that drove a trade from _Europe_ to the _East-Indies_.] [Sidenote: How they went their journeys.] In these later times, the first that endeavor’d to drive an _European_ Trade in _Africk_, and held Commerce with _India_, was the State of _Venice_, who Sail’d from thence through the _Adriatick_, into the _Mediterranean-Sea_: So Steering for _Alexandria_, where unlading their Goods, from thence they carry’d them over Land, and Shipping again in the _Arabian_ Gulph, Sail’d directly for _India_. Thus by Land and Water, were exchang’d several Commodities, and the _Indian_ Growth and rich Products of the Oriental World plentifully Transported to _Venice_, and from thence, all _Europe_ had ample Accommodation, until an _Egyptian Sultan_ suffer’d the Way to be infested by Thieves and Murdering Robbers, that so they were enforc’d to remove thence, and Discharge their several Cargoes at _Aleppo_; from whence, on Mules and Camels, they carry’d their Goods to _Babylon_, so to _Balsarum_, and then to _Ormus_, where they Re-ship’d thence, directly standing for _India_. Thus they enjoy’d the benefit of so great a Trade and Commerce, until the _Portuguese_ found a Passage by Sea, saving the Expence and trouble of carrying Goods so far by Land to _India_; Of which here we will a little inlarge. [Sidenote: By what means the _Portuguese_ came first to discover the Coasts of _Africa_ and _India_.] [Sidenote: Why _Africa_ was no further discover’d.] _John_, the first King of _Portugal_, who took from the _Moors_, by force of Arms, _Septa_, an _African_ City, having five Sons; _Henry_ his fourth behav’d himself so gallantly in the Leaguer of _Septa_, that after he became Master of the place, this Prince made many bold Excursions in several Parties against the Enemy, bringing in daily great store of Booty; so growing rich, he Rigg’d out two new Vessels to make farther Discoveries along the Coast of _Africa_. Yet this his Expedition went on but slowly, being much taken off in Building there a new City, then call’d _Tarzanabala_, and since _Villa Infantis_; but being Admonish’d by a Dream, and Check’d for his laying thus aside his first Design of Navigation; he soon after, _Anno 1410._ set forth the Ships that he intended, which he the more accelerated, being inform’d by some of his Prisoners Natives, that _Africa_ spread from the Basis of _Mount-Atlas_, very far towards the South: This Mountain then was the Terminary of Navigation that way, because thereabouts a long Ridge or Shelf of Sands thrust its Point under Shallow Waters so far out into the Ocean, that none durst venture to Sail into the _Offin_, being out of sight of Land to double this conceal’d _Cape_. [Sidenote: Who first ventur’d into the _Offin_.] [Sidenote: _Madera_’s, by whom peopled.] The first that attempted to find Deep Water, and get round about, discovering several unknown Coasts, and Uninhabited Isles belonging to that Region, were _Joannes Gonsalves_, _Tristan Varseus_, and _Ægidius Annius_; amongst which were the _Madera_’s, and _St. George de Picho_, which Prince _Henry_ first Planted with _Portuguese_, and others since with _Netherlanders_. He also obtain’d a Grant from Pope _Martin_ the Fifth, of all the discover’d Territories East-ward from the _Canaries_, for ever to be the undoubted Right, and belonging to the Crown of _Portugal_. [Sidenote: By whom _Genny_ was discover’d.] After _Henry_’s Decease, _Anno 1460._ the business of Navigation and Discoveries of new Countreys, lay neglected, because King _Alphonso_ turmoyl’d in a Civil War, his Crown being at stake, had not leisure to think or look after uncertain improvements by Sea; yet at last having quell’d his Enemies, he ventur’d forth some Ships, who Sail’d as far as the River _Zenaga_, and came to Anchor before the City of _Genny_, famous since for Trade, which gave its denomination to the Countrey and Coasts of _Guiny_, where they dealing, Barter’d for Ivory, Gold, Slaves, and also got so much footing into the Countrey, that they suddenly rais’d up a Fort, and Man’d it with a strong Garrison, Shipping their Slaves for _Lisbon_. _John_ the Second succeeding his Father _Alphonso_, had a great design upon _Arabia_ and _India_, and if possible, was ambitious to open a Passage from the _Atlantick_, to the _Oriental-Seas_. But the difficulty lay in Steering so often from sight of Land, venturing into the Main Ocean, obstructed by so many dangerous Shoals that lay so far out into the _Offin_. [Sidenote: For the Northern Constellations the _Astrolabe_ was in use long before.] At that time flourish’d three famous Mathematicians, _Rhoderick_, _Joseph_, and _Martin Bohemus_, Pupils bred up by _Joannes Monteregius_; with which the King consulting, perswaded, that they would by their Art invent some Instrument, that by Southern Constellations, the Pole being depress’d, the Navigator might know where he was, and in what height; so guessing what distance they were from this or that Countrey; they accordingly Club’d Learning, and by their great Study, found out what since hath prov’d so useful and beneficial to Seamen, the _Astrolabe_; which help having obtain’d, the Sailers encourag’d, more frequently ventur’d into remote and unknown Seas. [Sidenote: Remarkable passage of _Jaques Cano_.] [Sidenote: Discovery of _Congo_.] [Sidenote: _John_ the Second, seeks to discover _India_ by water.] After these, King _John_ of _Portugal_ sent _Jaques Cano_ with a Fleet, who Sailing, found the River _Zaires_, where he erected a Pillar with an Inscription, _Latin_ and _Portuguese_, signifying by whom, and in what Kings Reign these _African_ Coasts were discover’d: Here he also met some of the Natives, who more civiliz’d than the rest, told him, That they had a mighty King, who Raigning over them, kept his Court some few days Journey up in the Countrey, to whom _Cano_ sending his Agents, detain’d four _Africans_ as Pledges, which he carry’d with their free consent to _Portugal_, promising to bring them back in fifteen Months, who before that time having got some smatterings of their Tongue, inform’d them, that their Native Soyl was call’d _Congo_, whither returning by the appointed time, they were according to their agreement, exchang’d for the _Portuguese_, and _Cano_ address’d himself with rich Presents to their King, whom he found sitting in their manner on an Ivory Throne, being from the middle upward Naked, his nether parts cover’d with long Silken Skirts, a Golden Armlet on his left Arm, athwart his Shoulders hung a Horses Tail, their Badge of Royal Dignity: _Cano_ humbly laid the Presents down at the Kings feet, amongst which was a Gilded Flag, or Pennon with a Cross, which Pope _Innocent_ the Eighth had Consecrated with great Ceremony. After this, many of that Nation became Christians, and the King himself receiv’d Baptism. But in short time, by the Instigations of their Diabolical Priests, and others, Christianity loosing ground, grew out of countenance: Mean while, King _John_ the Second vigorously Prosecuted the business of Discovery, sending _Jews_ and _Christians_ by Land from _Alexandria_ and other parts of _Egypt_ to _India_, and from thence to explore the Coasts on the Eastern side of _Africa_, to the _Great-Cape_; if so a way might be found fit for Navigators, having doubled that Point, to Traffick with the Oriental parts of the World. [Sidenote: _Vasques de Gama_, his expedition.] After this Princes Death the Work lay sill a while, but in short time, King _Emanuel_ his Successor freshly undertook the business once more, sending _Vasques de Gama_ with four Ships, who passing through many Dangers with great Difficulties, Anchor’d at last before _Calecut_, and was the first of the _Europeans_ that found a way to the _East-Indies_. [Sidenote: _Christopher Columbus_’s.] [Sidenote: Dividing of the earth.] But _Christopher Columbus_, five Years before _Gama_’s Expedition to the East, had been employ’d in Western Discoveries, which prov’d so very successful, that he found no less than another World; which soon after, from _Americus Vesputius_, was call’d _America_: So that the Division of the World by the Antients, (concerning which they had so long err’d, and were utterly mistaken) was now made manifest by Experience, and undisputable Demonstration; for formerly the whole World was known by no other names than _Asia_, _Africa_, and _Europe_, but now, those three are found to make but one Part of what incircles the Universal Globe; because in the South lies a second, known no further than by its Coastings and Superficial Margents; the third part being the New-World, our _America_. [Sidenote: A query, if _America_ was known to the Ancients.] [Sidenote: _Atlantica. Plato in Crisis & Timæo._] Here it will not seem amiss, having prov’d that _Africa_ was more than Coasted by the Ancients, to ingage and search with some scrutiny concerning this _America_; First, Whether at any time ’twas known by the Ancients? And next, by what People, and when first Inhabited? About the former, the Learned of these later times Jangle amongst themselves, for some of them will needs ascribe so much Honor to Antiquity, declining the Worthy Praise of those that made so wonderful a Discovery, as if they of old, and many Ages before, had done the same, or at least, that this New-World to them was not unknown, maintaining this their bold Assertion from the Authority of what they find, both in Ancient _Greek_, and _Latin_ Authors: First, especially in the Learned _Plato_, who, as you know at large, describes a New _Atlantis_, lying beyond the _Straights_ of _Gibraltar_; whose Coast is surrounded with two vast Seas that are Sow’d thick with scatter’d Islands. By these Seas they understand the Atlantick and Southern-Sea, by the many Isles, _Cuba_, _Hispaniola_, _Jamaica_, _California_, and others, which lie sprinkled along the Coasts of _America_. But it cannot be made out, that _Plato_ describes ought but a Fancy, his own _Idea_, not a Countrey that ever was, is, or shall be, though he sets it forth so Accurately, and with such Judgment, as if he had taken a Survey of the place, and found such a Land indeed. [Sidenote: _Diod. Sic._ lib. 6.] [Sidenote: _Arist. de Mirandis in Natura auditis._] In like manner, _Diodorus Siculus_ undertakes to prove, That _America_ was known to the Antients; telling a Story, how the _Phenicians_ were driven by a Storm from the Coasts of _Africa_ West-ward, falling at last upon a great and altogether unknown Island, which our late Expositors take for _America_; Must it therefore be so? Surely not, for it is onely a bare Story, without any Proof or the least Testimony. They endeavor to make _Aristotle_ bolster up their opinion that he had a knowledge of this New-World, which with no small pains they pump from these Words: “Beyond the _Herculean_ Pillars, certain _Carthaginian_ Merchants penetrated the Atlantick Ocean so far, that at last they found a vast, yet un-inhabited Island, producing nothing but Herbage, Plants, and Wild-Beasts, yet interlac’d with many Meandring Rivers, abounding with several sorts of Fish, lying some days Sail from the Continent; they Landing, found a Soyl so fertile, and Air so temperate, that there they setled, and were the first Planters of that Isle. But the _Carthaginians_ having intelligence thereof, Prohibited all Persons whatsoever, upon Pain of Death, to go thither, fearing the place being so much commended, all the People would be ready to flock thither, and desert their own, and so utterly unfurnish and debilitate their then growing Common-wealth.” [Sidenote: _Æneid._ lib. 6.] But how could the _Carthaginians_ find _America_, without the use of the Compass? How happen’d it, that they were so taken with the fertility of this their New-found-Land, when the Adjacent Countreys and Fields about _Carthage_ are every where Flourishing, and most Luxurious? So that it may better be suppos’d, that what _Aristotle_ found so long since, may rather be the _Canary-Isles_, or _Great-Brittain_, than _America_. The _Greeks_ having then also made some Inspection into the _Brittish-Isles_. They would also make you believe, that _Virgil_ the Prince of Latin Poets, had known the New-World in these Verses; _Æneid._ lib. 6. _There, there’s the Prince, oft promis’d us before, Divine_ Augustus Cæsar, _who once more Shall Golden Days bring to th’_ Ausonian _Land, Kingdoms that once old_ Saturn _did command, And shall His power to_ India _extend, Beyond the Annual Circle, and beyond The Sun’s long Progress, where great_ Atlas _bears, Laden with Golden Stars, the glittering Sphears;_ Hic vir, hic est, tibi quem promitti sæpius audis, _Augustus Cæsar_, divûm genus, aurea condet Sæcula, qui rursus Latio, regnata per arva Saturno quondam, super & Garamantas & Indos Proferet imperium. Jacet extra sidera tellus, Extra anni Solisque vias, ubi cœlifer _Atlas_ Axem humero torquet stellis ardentibus aptum. [Sidenote: _America_ was not known to the Ancients.] But what of all this? Who finds in any of these Writings, any Marks of _America_, or the least Description thereof? Though we cannot deny that the Antient Sages and Wise Philosophers of former times might easily make out, and no question did, that the Earth and Sea made the perfect Figure of a Globe; first from the round Shadow of the Earth that Ecclipses the Moon; the different Risings and Settings of the Celestial Luminaries; and the still Variation of the Pole; so that the Earth and Sea making one Ball, they might easily conjecture, that the South-side of the Equinoctial might be Inhabited as well as the North: But all this was more grounded upon Natural Reason and Right Judgement, than any Experience of theirs, or the least certain knowledge thereof, which since these later times had the first happiness to obtain; so laying these Conjectures aside, there have been none more grosly erroneous, and so utterly mistaken in this Point, than some of the Ancients, and especially the Fathers of the Church. [Sidenote: _Lactant._ l. 3. c. 24.] _Lactantius Firmianus_, and St. _Austin_, who strangely jear’d at as ridiculous, and not thinking fit for a Serious Answer the Foolish Opinion of _Antipodes_, or another Habitable World beyond the _Equator_: At which, _Lactantius_ Drolling, says, _What, Forsooth, here is a fine Opinion broach’d indeed; an_ Antipodes! _heigh-day! People whose Feet tread with ours, and walk Foot to Foot with us; their Heads downwards, and yet drop not into the Sky! There, yes, very likely, the Trees loaden with Fruit grow downwards, and it Rains, Hails, and Snows upwards; the Roofs and Spires of Cities, tops of Mountains, point at the Sky beneath them, and the Rivers revers’d topsi-turvy, ready to flow into the Air out of their Channels!_ [Sidenote: _Lactant._ error concerning our _Antipodes_.] [Sidenote: As also St. _Austin. de Civit. Dei_ l. 16. c. 9.] But these seeming witty Observations of _Lactantius_, though they may serve for a Jest, yet are not grounded on any serious Reasons; for the Earth and Sea being Globular, making one Universal Ball; all Materials whatsoever that belong to this great Body, sink by a natural Propensity towards its Center; so that where-ever we Travel, our Feet are downwards, and our Heads upwards, the Sky above, and the Earth beneath; neither need they fear, that any where the Earth should Moulder and drop into the Clouds: But St. _Austin_ Reasons better, admitting that the Earth and Sea make a Universal Globe; yet it no way follows, that inhabited Countreys should lye opposite to our Northern, nay, altogether impossible, seeing that side which is our _Antipodes_ is all nothing but Sea; and should we allow, that there were Land and Water mixt as ours is, who could prove, that they were Peopled? or how could any get thither, over such Vast and Immense Seas? or possibly pass the extream heat of the Torrid Zone, not to be endur’d by any living Creature? And what then becomes of Sacred Scripture, which says positively, _That all Men were deriv’d from_ Adam, _and after the Floud, from_ Noah _and his three Sons_? Therefore the Nations of the _Antipodes_ must be of another Abstract, there being no possibility (as they suppos’d) of passing from this World to that: But since the Discovery of the _East_ and _West-Indies_, Experience, the best Mistress, hath taught, that in the South are mighty Lands and vast Territories, and that as far as they have been Penetrated, are found to be full of People, extending their Dominions from East to West. And though St. _Austin_ deny’d this now well-known Truth, yet long before his time, _Cicero_, _Pliny_, and others amongst the _Greeks_ and _Romans_, divided the Earth under five _Zones_; which _Virgil_ describes thus: _Five Zones the heav’ns infold, hot Sun-beams beat Always on one, and burns with raging heat. The two Extreams to this on each hand lies Muffled with Storms, fetter’d with cruel Ice. ’Twixt Cold and Heat, two more there are, th’ aboads Assign’d poor Mortals by th’ Immortal Gods._ Quinque tenent cælum zonæ: quarum una corusco Semper Sole rubens, & torrida semper ab igni: Quam circum extremæ dextra, lævaque trahuntur Cærulea glacie concretæ, atque imbribus atris. Has inter, mediamque, duæ mortalibus ægris Munere concessæ divum: via secta per ambas, Obliquus qua se signorum verteret ordo. [Sidenote: _Macrob. in Somnio Scipionis._ l. 2. c. 5.] [Sidenote: _Vide Carpent. Geograph._] With _Virgil_, _Pliny_, and the Prince of Latin Orators agree, who saith, “You see, that those that inhabit the Earth dwell in Countreys so separated one from another, that it is impossible they should have any Commerce; some of them are our _Antipodes_, walking with their Heads downwards, some their Feet against our sides, others, as we, with their Heads upright. You see how the same Earth seems to be Swath’d about with Rolls, of which, two separated by the other three, are at utmost distance one from the other, lying equi-distant under the Vertick Points of Heaven, always cover’d with Snow and Ice; but the middlemost and greatest is scorch’d by the violent heats of the Sun: Two Tracts are Habitable, one to the South, our _Antipodes_, the other North, which we Inhabit.” [Sidenote: _Pliny_ lib. 2.] And _Pliny_ also affirms, though against the Vulgar Opinion, this truth, “That the Earth is round about inhabited, and that people walk Foot to Foot in most parts thereof; though every one be ready to ask why our _Antipodes_ drop not into the Sky; which question, our _Antipodes_ may also ask concerning us.” But although the Ancients upon these and the like Demonstrations well understood, that there was a Habitable World towards the South under our _Horizon_, yet they could not make out or believe, that there was any possibility to pass thither; And, according as St. _Austin_ conceiv’d, That the Earth produc’d nothing under either Pole, by reason of excessive cold, and that the _Equinoxs_ or _Middle-Zone_, was not to be penetrated, because of the insufferable heat. [Sidenote: _Macrob. in Somno Scip._ lib. 2.] And _Macrobius_ saith, “That the _Equinoctial_ Circle, the _Artick_ and _Antartick Lines_, bind the two Habitable _Zones_, and make Temperate by the excessive Neighboring Heats and Colds; and these Countreys onely give Animation, and comfortable Enjoyment to all Living Creatures.” Moreover, St. _Austin_ in some places seems to clear his own Doubts, saying, “That People, if they could find a means to Sail those Vast and Undiscover’d Seas, might make Land, raising new Stars under another Sky.” [Sidenote: How beasts came on remote Islands.] A Learned Father, searching after the Original of all sorts of Beasts which multiply by Generation, concludes, That they must derive themselves from those that were sav’d with _Noah_ in the Ark. But how came they to the Isles? To those adjacent and near the Main Land, they might easily Swim; to the remoter, they were Transported. [Sidenote: And chiefly the wild.] [Sidenote: _Austin_ is contradicted.] [Sidenote: How men came to new Countreys.] But this Doubt is not altogether clear’d, for the Domestick and other Creatures fit for Humane use and Sustenance were thus brought thither: Yet how comes it to pass, that Voracious and Wild Creatures are also found there, such as Wolves, Tigers, Lions, and other Beasts of Prey? This puzzle putting St. _Austin_ to a stand, he had no other means to get off, but by saying, that by God’s Commands or Permission, the Angels convey’d them thither; If so, why might not God please to Plant Men there in like manner, and the rather, the Earth being created for Humane use? But what needed this, when Men can in Ships Transport themselves, either of their own accord for curious Inquest, to find new Countreys, or else enforc’d by stress of Weather, to far remoter, and altogether unknown Lands: Besides, though the Earth is here and there divided by large Bays and vast Seas, yet nevertheless, in other places it is all continu’d Land, or at least parted by some narrow In-let or Sea; so that there was no difficulty for a crouded Plantation to go over, and so ease themselves in another Countrey, till then not Inhabited; therefore none need to question, but that from _Adam_, or nearer, from _Noah_’s three Sons, _Sem_, _Ham_, and _Japhet_, those, as well as we, were extracted, that Inhabit this our other World. [Sidenote: Reasons why _America_ was so long unknown.] [Sidenote: Who first sail’d on the Ocean.] [Sidenote: Several opinions of the Antients concerning it.] [Sidenote: _Brittains_ amongst the first Inventors of Navigation.] But one question is to be observ’d, How first after the expiration of so many Ages in these our later times, a New-World was discover’d, altogether unknown to the Antients, when they in the greatness of their Parts and Undertaking, Prowess and Prudence, were no ways inferior to the Modern, and every way as fit for great Designs and grand Exploits? We need not scruple or make the least doubt, but the Sea hath been Navigated of old; but the first attempters set forth unexperienc’d, in as pittiful and ill-contriv’d Vessels. The _Heathens_ ascribe the Art of Navigation, first to the _Cretans_, who under the Conduct of _Neptune_, set forth a Navy to explore Foraign Countries. But _Pliny_ long before gives the Invention of this Art to _Erythra_, King of _Egypt_, who upon Pieces of Timber, conjoyn’d and brac’d together, crept along the Shores, and ventur’d to Discover the Isles in the _Red-Sea_. But others give that honor to the _Trojans_, and _Micians_, when with a Fleet by Sea, they Invaded _Thrace_: Others, to the _Brittains_, who made little Vessels of Leather, and were the first that by this Invention found how to Float upon the Waters: Some plead, that the _Samothracians_ were first; Others, that _Danæus_ before all, found a way by Sea from _Egypt_ to _Greece_. But without all Contradiction, _Noah_’s Ark was the Pattern or Sample, that succeeding Ages imitating, built their Ships by; and the more probable, because his Offspring multiplying so fast, that they were enforc’d to inlarge their Colonies, by passing Seas, and other broad Rivers, to settle their Super-numeraries there. [Sidenote: The first Inventers of several things belonging to Shipping.] So _Jason_ Invented a Ship, which he call’d _Argos_, which _Sesostris_ King of _Egypt_ took as his Pattern. Next, the _Biremis_, a Galley with double Banks of Oars, was made by the _Erythreans_; with treble Banks, by the _Corinthian Amocles_; the addition of the _Quadruple_, the _Carthaginians_ boast; of the _Quinqueremis Nesichthon_, _Alexander the Great_, brought them to twelve Banks; _Ptolomy Soter_, to fifteen; _Demetrius_, _Antigonus_ Son, doubled them to thirty; _Ptolomy Philadelphus_, to forty; and last of all, _Philopater_ rais’d them to fifty Banks of Oars. _Hippus_ a _Tirian_, was the first that set Ships upon the Stocks; the _Rhodians_ a Ketch, and the _Batavians_ a Boat; the _Copes_ made the first Oar; _Dedalus_ the Mast and Boltsprit; _Piscus_ the Beak; the _Tyrrheans_ the Anchor; _Tiphys_ the Rudder; taking example from the motion of a Kites Stern; _Icarus_ found Sails, fancy’d by the Poets for Wings, though some ascribe that honor to his Father _Dedalus_. [Sidenote: Why in former Ages no remote Countreys were discover’d.] _Minos_ was the first that Ingag’d in a Sea-Fight, whereby we may easily conjecture, that of old none adventur’d far into the _Offin_, or to remote Countreys, not daring to trust their so sleight contriv’d Vessels. But these later times have strangely and suddenly improv’d this growing Art of Navigation, yet pitch’d not to that height at first, as boldly to adventure, and loose sight of Land. [Sidenote: The manner of the Antients Sailing.] [Sidenote: Of the _Romans_.] [Sidenote: Why _America_ was so lately known.] The _Tyrians_ first understood how to Steer their Course by the North-Star, and when dark and foul Weather had Clouded the Sky, that they could neither see Heaven or Earth, but onely Sea, they directed their Course by the Wind; and if they doubted the change thereof, they let some Birds flie, whom they follow’d, supposing that they stood directly to the nearest Land. But these are but poor helps, and blind Guides to shew you Land from the middle of the boundless Ocean. It is certain, that the _Romans_ in the time of _Julius Cæsar_ and _Augustus_, stretch’d the Bounds of that Empire Eastward to _Euphrates_, the _Rhyne_, and the _Danube_, and Westward to the _Ocean_ and _Mount Atlas_, Sailing up and down the _Mediterranean_, with great Fleets, which stoutly endur’d the violence both of Waves and Weather; but all this made them not so hardy, as once to think or look after new Worlds. But after the _Roman_ power decreas’d, by several Eruptions of the _Goths_, _Vandals_, _Huns_, _Normans_, _Lumbards_, and other Northern Countreys, which swarm’d with People, that overflow’d all places like a Deluge, so that _Europe_ was every where puzzel’d and Imbroyl’d, their whole business consisting in conjoyning Forces to withstand such bold Invaders, and so vexatious an Enemy. And farther East, _Asia_ was at the same time little better, still trembling at the daily Alarms and Incursions of the _Scythians_, _Persians_, and _Saracens_; and afterwards the _Turks_ growing upon them more than any of the former, expected no other than a sad Catastrophe, so that the known World had too much work cut out for them by these Distractions and Alterations of Government, then to go in Quest of uncertainties, to find they know not where, another. [Sidenote: _Hieron. in_ c. 2. _Ephes._] Here also is added by St. _Jerom_, what an antient Writer saith, _Great care hath been taken in Computing the Age of this World, and if there be another which Commenc’d not with ours_, (as _Clemens_ mentions in his Epistles) _where are scituate those Seas and Lands that make that second World? Or is a part of that, in which_ Adam _was Created? Or may it not rather Metaphorically be taken for Worldly Affairs, govern’d by the Prince of the Air, ruling in the Hearts of the Children of Disobedience?_ [Sidenote: The Antients opinion of an unknown world.] But _Pliny_, _Cicero_, and _Virgil_, the best in their kind of Latin Writers, concur, That there may be a habitable World under our _Horizon_, in the temperate Southern _Zone_, beyond the extream heat, and on this side of the _Antartick_ colds. [Sidenote: _In Comment. super_ Obad. v. 19, 20, 21.] [Sidenote: _And they of the south shall possess the mount of_ Elau, _and they of the plain, the_ Philistines: _and they shall possess the fields of_ Ephraim, _and the fields of_ Samaria, _and_ Benjamin _shall possess_ Gilead. _And the captivity of this host of the children of_ Israel _shall possess that of the_ Canaanites, _even unto_ Zarephath, _and the captivity of_ Jerusalem, _which is in_ Sepharad, _shall possess the Cities of the south. And saviors shall come upon mount_ Zion, _to judge the mount of_ Esau, _and the kingdom shall be the LORDS_.] But what signifies all this to the Discovery of _America_, which lies not onely under the scorching Heats of the _Equinox_, but under the Frosts and Snows of the _Artick_ and _Antartick-Poles_? Yet less probable is that which _Lodowick Leo_, an _Augustine_ Frier takes out of _Obadiah_; as if that Prophet in the three last Verses of his _Prophecy_ should speak of the _Spaniards_, which should not onely discover and Conquer _America_, but also Convert the Inhabitants to the _Christian Faith_, because those that are in _Sepharad_, should Inherit and Possess the Cities of the South, _And Saviours shall arise from the Mountains of_ Zion, _to judge the Mount and Wealth of_ Esau. [Sidenote: If _America_ is known in the Scripture.] But certainly, _Obadiah_ meant no other than the Restauration of the _Jews_ from the Captivity of _Babylon_, who after their return, should grow more powerful than ever, and they, led by their _Messias_, obtain the height of all felicity, who would send his _Evangelists_ and _Apostles_ to declare Salvation to the utmost Borders of the Earth. It is true, that the _Rabins_ Expound _Sepharad_ to be _Spain_, and therefore he concludes, that _Obadiah_ Prophesi’d of the _Spaniard_, and their Conquests in _America_; so they would prove, that _America_ was long known before Christ. [Sidenote: _Solomon_’s Fleet sail’d not to _Peru_.] And lastly, It signifies as little what _Pineda_ and _Levinus Lemnius_ drive at, That _Solomon_ first finding the use of the Compass, Rigg’d a Navy at _Ezion-Geber_, which from the _Red-Sea_ had no indirect Course to the _Straights_ of _Magellan_; from whence he might Lade his Vessels with the Gold of _Peru_. In whose Description it shall be manifested, that _Peru_ is not _Ophir_, as some without any shew of Reason or Truth would make us believe. [Sidenote: _Solomon_ did not find the Compass.] But as concerning King _Solomon_’s finding out the use of the _Magnet_, it is soon said, but not easily proved; for though that Prince exceeded all Man-kind in Wisdom and Learning, and was perfect in the Operations, and knew the Occultest Secrets of Nature, understanding what e’re belong’d to Plants, from the Cedar of _Libanus_, to Hysop, and the meanest Shrub that grows upon the Wall; yet it nothing makes out, that he knew the Mystery of the Navigable use of the _Load-Stone_: But suppose he did know, there is no where any mention of it; and if this excellent thing, the _Compass_, had been found in _Solomon_’s time, how came it afterwards so utterly to be lost? [Sidenote: Load-stone, by whom found.] [Sidenote: Strange operations of the Loadstone.] [Sidenote: _De subtilitate_ l. 7.] [Sidenote: Variance of the Compass.] [Sidenote: _Genebrad. Chron._] [Sidenote: When, and by whom the Compass was found.] _Albertus Magnus_ mistakes, when he ascribes the knowledge of the _Compass_ to _Aristotle_, of which he himself makes not the least mention; neither _Galen_, _Alexander Aphrodisiensis_, _Pliny_, _Lucretius_, nor any of the _Roman_, _Greek_, _Arabian_, or other Countrey Writers whatsoever. Some give the honor thereof to an _Indian_, others to a Shepherd in _Mount Ida_, whose Clouted Shooes being full of Hob-Nails, the Iron sticking fast to the Stones on which he stood, stopt his motion. And although the Antients found out many Secrets of Nature, amongst which this of the _Load-Stone_, Attracting Iron, as being its proper Food; and the three sorts of the _Magnet_, of which some will not draw Steel, found by _Theamedes_ a _Greek_ Author, and other since, well known Properties: Yet they never attain’d that knowledge, that the _Load-Stone_ would ease Pain, and stop the effusion of Blood, though the edge piercing the Skin, open’d the Vein: as _Hieronimus Cardanus_ experienc’d on himself and others, which he had from _Laurentius Guascus_, a great Chyrurgeon. Much less, that the Needle of the _Compass_ being touch’d by the _Load-Stone_ on the Northside of the _Equinox_, respects the North; but depressing the _Artick_, and raising the _Antartick_ Pole, it looks as stedfastly towards the South: But far less dreamt they of its several variations, according to the Coasts that are nearest; as when you come from the Island _del Cuervo_, the Point varies more West; but Sailing towards the _Equinox_, it varies Eastward; by which we may absolutely conclude, that without this use of the _Load-Stone_, first found by _Flavius Melvius_ a _Neapolitan_, in the Year 1303. it was altogether impossible to reach _America_. So that _Joseph de Acosta_ mistakes, who gives the honor of the finding so great a benefit to Navigation, to some _Mahumetan_ Sea-men which _Vasques de Gama_ met with near _Mosambique_, who had Sail’d those Seas by the use thereof; whereas _Gama_’s Expedition was above a hundred years after _Melfius_, who liv’d in such a juncture of time for Mathematical Learning, that few Ages boasted the like: For then flourish’d in _England_, and were Contemporaries, besides others abroad, _Richard Wallingford_, _Nicolas de Lynna_, _John Halifax_, _Walter Britte_, _John Duns_, and _John de Lignarys_, all eminent in Astronomical Arts, belonging to Navigation, and doubtless, no small helps to _Melfius_ in this his happy Invention. Lastly, We will relate what hath been held as a seeming Testimony, (that _America_ was known to the _Europeans_ before the Birth of our Saviour) by an antique Meddal of the Emperor _Augustus_, digg’d out of the Ground in _Peru_, and sent to his Holiness at _Rome_, which may well be reckon’d with the like Cheat contriv’d by _Hermicus Cajadus_, _Anno 1505._ near _Syntra_, a Town in _Portugal_, where three Marbles Ingraven with antient Characters, concerning a Prophecy of discovering the _East-Indies_ by the _Portuguese_, in the Reign of King _Emanuel_, were privately bury’d under Ground, and not long after, by a pretended accident digg’d out, which made such a bustle amongst the Learned, that several tired themselves about the explanation of the suppos’d Sibylline Prediction. [Illustration] CHAP. II. _Of the Original of the_ Americans, _whence they came, when, how, and from what People Planted_. [Sidenote: The original of the _Americans_ much disputed on.] About the Original of the _Americans_, the Learned Dispute so much, that they find nothing more difficult in Story, than to clear that Point; for whether inquiry be made after the time, when the _Americans_ first settled themselves where they now inhabit, or after what manner they came thither, either by Shipping or by Land; on purpose, or accidentally; driven by Storm, or else forc’d by a more powerful People, to remove from their old Plantations, and seek for new? or if any one should be yet more curious, asking the way that directed them out of another Countrey to this New World? or else enquire for those People, from whom the _Americans_ deriv’d themselves? He will find several Opinions, and the Learned still Jangling. [Sidenote: Voyage l. 1. c. 8.] [Sidenote: The time when _America_ was first Peopled.] The first Doubt is concerning the time: Mr. _Purchas_, where-ever he had the Hint, endeavors to prove, that _America_ hath been but lately Planted; for which he thus argues, “That if _Asia_, or _Europe_ furnish’d _America_ with People in _Abraham_’s time, or at least before the Birth of our Saviour; then it must upon necessity, by the Expiration of so many Ages, have been much more Populous, then the _Spaniards_ found when first they discover’d it. Besides, the vast Territories yet unhabited (says he) are sufficient testimonies, that this New World hath been Planted but scatteringly, and not many Ages since, else the Countrey would have more abounded with Inhabitants, because the fertility of the Soyl was able plentifully to maintain Millions more, then were there when first discover’d: And what Marks are better to know a new People by, in any Countrey, than a rude Life and unsettled Government? just like a Family removing to another House, which takes no short time to settle their Goods and Houshold-stuff in a handsome and convenient Order. [Sidenote: The condition of the first World after the Floud.] “When _Noah_ went out of the Ark on Mount _Ararat_, and not long after, saw his Seed spread over _Armenia_ and _Assyria_, the new Generation of People consisted in Shepherds and Husbandmen, that setled themselves near Lakes and Rivers. Villages, Cities (and much less) whole Kingdoms, were scarce found on the Face of the Earth, and as little of Trade or Commerce; Riches, Division of Lands, costly Garments and Furniture for Houses, were not then in use, but the works of long settlements in happy Peace. To curb growing-Wickedness, and the Pride of _Libertines_, who incroach’d upon their weaker Neighbors, Laws were invented, by which Bridle, the unbroke or wild World grew tamer: And first, the _Assyrians_ were brought to endure the Bit, and answer the Reins of Government; then _Egypt_, next _Greece_, and after that the _Romans_, who spreading their Power by Arms and Martial Discipline, first civiliz’d the _Gauls_, _Spain_, _Brittain_, and lastly _Germany_. “But because a Countrey or Pastoral Life, knowing no Commerce, but mean Hovels, and to dwell in Huts, priding in poor and no Habits, despising all greatness, unlimited by Laws, and all things else, (which the People observ’d presently after the Flood) is now found among the _Americans_, who will take them for ought else, but new Comers to that Land, as themselves acknowledge? For the _Mexicans_ boast, that they are the eldest there, and that from them, _Peru_, _Chili_, _Chika_, and other Countreys towards the South, had their Colonies, and yet the oldest Chronicles of _Mexico_ reckon not above a thousand Years.” Thus far Mr. _Purchas_. [Sidenote: _America_ was Peopled many Ages ago.] [Sidenote: _Purchas_ contradicted.] But certainly, all this Muster of appearing Reasons, is not able to vanquish single Truth; For, grant that _America_ was not very Populous when the _Spaniards_ first arrived there; must this needs prove, that it was never well inhabited before? Perhaps the Civil Wars, which have been always destructive to this Nation, have much hindred the increase of People; and the more, because their Salvage Nature is such, that in several places they account Man’s Flesh Broil’d a very great Dainty. And suppose such Prodigal Excess of their Humane Bankets were not us’d in _America_, as indeed they are, Is it wonder, that such a great part of the World, not onely exceeding _Europe_ in bigness, but _Asia_ also should here and there have a Tract of Land uninhabited? These might, by reason of their Barrenness, be useless, as many such places are found in the midst of the most Populous and fertile Countreys. But above all this, it is certain, that _America_ to this day (notwithstanding almost innumerable thousands of _Indians_ formerly Slain and Massacred by the _Spaniards_) is so well inhabited, that it may stand in Competition with either _Asia_ or _Europe_. And how could such vast multitudes Plant the far-spreading Countrey of _America_, without the help of many Ages? Moreover, This truth is not without sufficient Testimonies; when any one looks on the Islands with which _America_ lies incompass’d, he may suppose they did not willingly go from the Main Continent to the Isles, but were driven thither by Wars among themselves, or as most times it happens, because of the vast increase of the Natives, the Countrey must discharge its burden. Hereto is added, the several Languages us’d in _America_, as in _Europe_ or any other part of the known World; whereby we may easily guess, that _America_ was Peopled presently after the Confusion of Tongues at _Babel_. Furthermore, If the _Americans_ live a Rude Life, go meanly Habited, be without stately Houses; such Customs are even among us observ’d by several People; as the _Tartars_, _Numidians_, and others, which made their Antiquity be call’d in question. He also must needs have no knowledge of the Arts and Mechanick Sciences us’d by the _Americans_, who concludes, that they setled but lately in _America_. One Argument at present will be sufficient to contradict them all; and in the further Description, the contrary will be more manifest. [Sidenote: _American_ Gold-Smiths.] _Hieronimus Benso_ relates, That he stood amaz’d at the Gold and Silver Smiths in the Territory of _Chito_, who without any Iron Tools, made Images, and all manner of Vessels: Which work they perform’d thus, First, they made an Oval Crucible of a good Lock, round about Pasted with Earth, embody’d with the Powder of Wood Coals; which Crucible being Bak’d very hard in the Sun, they fill with Pieces of Gold or Silver, and put in the Fire; about which standing with five, six, or more Pipes made of Canes, they blow the Fire so long, till the Mettal melts, which others sitting on the ground, run it into Moulds of black Stone, and so with little trouble, Cast into what shape they please. Lastly, Though _Mexico_ can reckon but a thousand years, must it therefore follow, that the Inhabitants are no older? How many famous places (even among our selves) have no longer Registers, and if they have, they are commonly Fabulous, few Nations boasting truly their own Original; which Argument, not onely contradicts (as we suppose) Mr. _Purchas_, but all others ascribing the Plantation of _America_ to our later times. SECT. I. [Sidenote: After what manner the Inhabitants of _America_ came thither.] ¶ In the next place, let us enquire, how the _Americans_ were transmitted thither, whether by Sea, or Land? Both which are feasible two several ways; if they made an Expedition thither, as Discoverers, or were driven on those Coasts by stress of Weather. The first is most unlikely, and not seeming possible, for how could they Steer thorow so vast an Ocean, to Countreys they never heard of, without the Compass, and other Necessaries for such a Voyage? for when first discover’d, their want of experience in Shipping for so long a Voyage, knowing no further than the use of small Boats or _Canoos_, plainly explode, that they willingly Steer’d from a known World, to an unknown, with no better accommodation; but some probable reasons may be made out, to induce us to believe, that they were rather driven thither by Storm. [Illustration] But some will say, How liv’d the little Boats, and how indur’d they in such a continual Tempest, and were not either swallow’d up amidst the Waves, or starv’d for want of Provision, which their hollow Troughs could not contain? The first doubt is the least, for there are Examples enough by which appear, that oftentimes great Ships Bulging, are over-set or sunk in the Sea by foul Weather when the Mariners escape in their Cock-Boat; and if they were but thinly Victual’d for so long a Voyage, questionless, that little which they had, they spun out, and made it last, while the impetuous Storm shortned the passage, which fair Weather would have made much longer. [Sidenote: _Plin_. l. 5. c. 22.] [Sidenote: Strange voyage of a _Roman_ Slave.] _Pliny_ tells us of _Annius Plocquius_, General of the _Red-Sea_, That one of his Slaves being Enfranchiz’d, Sailing down towards the _Arabian_ Gulf, was carry’d by a violent Tempest from the North, beyond _Caramania_, and on the fifteenth day came to an Anchor in _Hippuros_, a Haven of _Taprobane_, which _Ortelius_ judges to be _Sumatra_; but _Mercator_ and _Cluverius_, on better grounds, _Zeylon_, which is no less than three thousand _English_ Miles. In like manner, _Joseph de Acosta_ tells us, That in fifteen days time, he got with a Northerly Wind from the _Canaries_ to _America_, and his Voyage had been shorter, durst he have born more Sails, which may partly clear the former doubts. [Sidenote: The _Peruvians_ opinion concerning antient Sea-Voyages.] [Sidenote: _Acosta. Histor_. _Nat._ l. 2 c. 12.] [Sidenote: Ridiculous opinion of the _Americans_.] Moreover, the _Peruvians_ themselves give some small Testimony (in their antient Records) of a few that Landed of old upon their Coasts, which were (as they say) mighty and cruel Giants, committing much Bloodshed, Slaughtering the Natives every where; and having subdu’d the whole Countrey, built stately Edifices, of which remain yet the Ruines of some Foundations, very Artificial and Costly. They also shew near _Manta_, and _Puerto Viejo_, many huge Bones, as they believe of Giants, three times longer and thicker than an ordinary Mans. They also tell us, that many Ages since, one _Ica_ and _Arica_ Sail’d Westward thither upon Sea Wolves Skins, blown up like Bladders: But however, without contradiction, the _Americans_ never knew, much less built any such Vessels, with which they durst venture to the _Offin_, out of sight of Land: their _Balsas_, _Periagos_, and _Canoos_, will not all amount to the Bulk of one of our small Barques; wherefore the Inhabitants of _Tumbez_, when they descry’d the _Spanish_ Fleet, sent to discover _Peru_, were amaz’d at the high Masts, spreading Sails, and bigness of the Ships, judging them first to be Rocks, cast up out of the Sea; but observing them to approach their Coast, and that they were full of Bearded-Men, thought the Gods were walking in them; by our Modern Poet, Mr. _Dryden_ in his _Indian Emperor_, thus Elegantly describ’d. Guyomar _to_ Montezuma. _I went in order, Sir, to your Command, To view the utmost Limits of the Land: To see that Shore, where no more World is found, But Foamy Billows, breaking on the ground; Where, for a while, my Eyes no Object met, But distant Skies, that in the Ocean set: And low-hung Clouds that dipt themselves in Rain To shake their Fleeces on the Earth again. At last, as far as I could cast my Eyes Upon the Sea, somewhat, methought did rise Like Bluish Mists, which still appearing more, Took dreadful Shapes, and mov’d towards the Shore._ Mont. _What Forms did these new Wonders represent?_ Guy. _More strange than what your Wonder can invent. The Object I could first distinctly view, Was tall straight Trees, which on the Waters flew; Wings on their sides, in stead of Leaves did grow, Which gather’d all the Breath the Winds could blow:_ _And at their Roots grew floating Palaces, Whose out-blow’n Bellies cut the yielding Seas._ Mont. _What Divine Monsters, O ye Gods, were these, That float in Air, and fly upon the Seas!_ _Came they alive or dead upon the Shore?_ Guy. _Alas, they liv’d too sure, I heard them roar._ _All turn’d their sides, and to each other spoke, I saw their Words break out in Fire and Smoke._ _Sure, ’tis their Voice that Thunders from on high, Or these, the younger Brothers of the Skie._ _Deaf with the noise, I took my hasty Flight, No Mortal Courage can support the Fright._ [Sidenote: _Spaniards_ carry Oxen, and Sheep to the _American_ Isles.] But the resolving these Doubts, starts a harder Question, _viz._ Grant that the _Americans_ were by Tempest driven thither, How then came the Beasts thither? It is certain, that those which are beneficial for humane use, as Dogs for to Hunt, great Cattel, Sheep, for Food, and other Necessaries, might easily be carry’d thither, for so the _Spaniards_ brought Cows, Horses, Swine, and other Cattel; and also Poultery from _Spain_, to the new-discover’d Isles, _Cuba_, _Hispaniola_, _Jamaica_, _Margaretta_, and _La Dominica_, when at their arrival, formerly no four-footed Beasts were found there, whose fertile Soyl hath so multiply’d their increase, that the Doggs running Wilde, and breeding as fast, do great hurt to the Grazing Herds, which they onely shoot for their Skins, leaving their Flesh, the best of Meats, onely to Manure the Ground on which they lie. The Transporting of tame and profitable Cattel might easily be allow’d of, but who would load their Ships with Lions, Tygers, Bears, Wolves, Foxes, and other Serpents and Voracious Beasts? it is certain that some may be tam’d before they were Ship’d. [Sidenote: How wild Beasts came in _America_, and the Isles.] [Sidenote: In _vita Heliogabali_.] [Sidenote: Lib. 2. cap. 17.] [Sidenote: Strange Hunting.] [Sidenote: Strange accident of two Leopards.] [Sidenote: _Adv. Jovin._ l. 2.] _Lampridius_ relates, That _Heliogabalus_ the _Roman_ Emperor, took great pleasure in Domestick Lions, and Leopards, to frighten his Guests withal; for with the third Course, they were all brought in, and sate betwixt the Invited, a Man and a Beast. The great _Cham_, as _Paulus Venetus_ an Eye-witness attests, Rides on Hunting, attended in couples with tame Leopards. The King of _Camboja_ in like manner is serv’d with Panthers: _Scaliger_ adds also, That they went not unprovided of a Lamb or Goat, to give the Panther, lest falling into his natural ferocity, provok’d by hunger, he should make the Huntsmen his Quarry, if he had no other Prey. But notwithstanding some wilde Beasts seem to forget their Voracious Nature, yet there ought great care to be taken in the Transporting of them, because they oftentimes grow wild again, which _France_ can witness, where two Leopards, a Male and a Female being tam’d, presently after the death of King _Francis_, whether negligently or on purpose, let loose, ran into the Woods, and near _Orleans_ devour’d a great number of People, and Cattel: _Gesner_ saith, That some Womens bodies were found, who were untouch’d, onely their Breasts eaten by the Leopards, as if they took them for the daintiest part; which is not unlike the antient _Jeres_, who according to Saint _Hierom_, entertain’d their Guests as a most delicious Dish, with Womens Breasts, and Mens Buttocks Roasted. Besides, the devouring nature of these Wilde Beasts, what profit could Tygers, Lions, Wolves, Bears, and the like advantage the Transporter? And how came Serpents, Adders, and other Reptiles, thither over the Ocean, that with no Art whatsoever can be made tame? Were the small Vessels just laden with such terrible Creatures, when against their wills, they were by Storm driven on a new Coast? By these impossibilities we may easily judge, that the _Americans_ came thither by Land, and no other way, but how, and upon what occasion must be our next enquiry. SECT. II. [Sidenote: Two reasons wherefore the people remove from their Countreys.] ¶ Histories generally gives us onely two accounts, Why People remov’d from one Countrey to another, either not, or thinly inhabited; whether driven by force, or of their own accord, so to unburthen and give ease to their too Plethorick Countreys. [Sidenote: The Flood acknowledg’d by the _Americans_ and other _Heathens_ but mysteriously.] Thus the banish’d _Japanners_ forsook their Native Countrey, and setled themselves in a desolate Soyl, since a flourishing Empire, shining with Riches, and Crown’d with stately Cities: So the _Batavians_ took possession of the uninhabited Isle, lying between the _Rhyne_, and the _Wael_, being driven out of _Hessen_ by Civil-Wars, and preserv’d the memory of the place, from whence they had their Original on the utmost Point of the Island, in the Villages of _Cattenwyck_; for the _Hessens_ formerly went by the name of _Catti_; others that remov’d did not onely fall upon their Neighbors, but made a way by force of Arms, chosing their Habitations under a temperate Climate, and in a fruitful Soyl. After which manner the _Franks_ enter’d _Gaul_, and afterwards the _Normans_ set upon _France_; so that the Conquer’d Countreys, have ever since from the Conquerors been call’d _France_ and _Normandy_: But although it cannot punctually be said, how the Inhabitants of _America_ remov’d, yet it is without contradiction, that they first found an empty Countrey. The Opinions which they have themselves concerning it, are full of idle Fancies; First, they question their Original from the Floud, which is so well rooted in the memory of all Nations, that the blindest and most ignorant know something of it, though deformedly alter’d and vary’d, tack’d up with additional fabulous Stories, the truth it self known onely to us, but to all others lost in Oblivion. Who hath not heard of _Deucalion_’s Flood, how his Wife _Pyrrha_ and he only escap’d in a little Boat, and (as ’tis Fabl’d) landing on a Mountain, from thence Peopled the World again, by throwing Stones backwards over their Heads? Something of this seems to hint the true Story of _Noah_, his Wife, and Children, from whom the desolated World was replenish’d. [Sidenote: _Prometheus_ and _Noah_ are the same.] The same they relate of _Prometheus_, concerning whom, thus _Diodorus Siculus_: “They say that the _Nyle_ breaking through his Dams, and over-flowing his Banks, drown’d all _Egypt_, especially that part where _Prometheus_ Rul’d, where all the Inhabitants were swallow’d by the Deluge.” None can imagine but that _Diodorus_ by this makes mention of a particular Flood, and not the general one in _Noah_’s time; for as the _Greeks_ ascrib’d all things to their _Heroes_, so the _Egyptians_ in like manner did the same to _theirs_: Therefore they have of the general Flood, made a particular one in _Egypt_, though perhaps it never was: So that what is Fabled of _Prometheus_, is nothing but a Part of the Universal Deluge; which the Name _Prometheus_ proves, because it signifies, _Sprung from Heaven_, and is the same with _Noah_, whom they hold to be the first Father of all Mankind since the Flood, born of, or regenerated from his Wife _Asia_; and _Asia_ signifies _Earth_, or _The Mother of all things_; and so espousing _Noah_, being sprung from God, to _Ararat_, from whence descended the Generations of Mankind, and by degrees spread over the whole surface of the Earth. [Sidenote: _Acosta_, l. 1. c. 25.] [Sidenote: Strange Opinion of the _Americans_ concerning the Flood.] [Sidenote: Original of the _American_ Kings, and their Custom.] The _Chineses_, _East-Indians_, _Japanners_, and other People of _Asia_ and _Africa_, have also some knowledge of a very ancient Flood; but hood-wink’t under many idle Fancies, not unlike that which the _Americans_ relate, from whom several Learned Persons find no obscure Confessions of the Deluge, which thus mystically they have wrapp’d up, That one _Viracocha_ came out of the great Lake _Titicaca_, and setled his Residence upon _Tiaguanaco_, where yet remain the Ruines of ancient Walls, built after a wonderful manner: At length removing from _Tiaguanaco_ to _Cusco_, he began to multiply the Generation of Mankind. They shew in the foremention’d Lake a small Island, under which, the _Americans_ say, the Sun sav’d himself from the Flood; wherefore in ancient Times they superstitiously observ’d that place, heightning their Bloody Sacrifices with Humane Slaughter. Others relate, That six Persons leap’d through a Hole out of a Window, from whence all Men were since Extracted; and from that new Increase, the place (after the Inhabitants of the Old World were all drown’d) got the Denomination of _Pacari Tampo_; and therefore they hold the _Tampo_’s to be the most ancient Families: From hence _Mangocapam_ deriv’d, being the Primogenitor of the _Ynca_’s or Kings; from whom sprung two Generations, _Hanon Cuzco_, and _Urim Cuzco_. They tell us also, That their _Ynca_’s, when they make War upon any People, say that the occasion, as they pretend, was, because all Territories are Tributary to them justly, from whom they were deriv’d and restor’d, being the first Planters of the New World; and withal, That the true Religion was declar’d to them from Heaven. [Sidenote: _Americans_ Flood is taken out of the Scripture.] This Relation, though mix’d with Fables, shews (but very darkly) that they have some knowledge of the Flood: For who are those six else that leap’d out of a Window to replenish the Generations of Mankind, but _Shem_, _Ham_, and _Japhet_, with their Wives? [Sidenote: _Peruvians_ Opinion.] [Sidenote: And also the _Mexicans_, of their Original.] [Sidenote: Lib. 1. cap. 7.] The _Americans_ can give but a little better Account of their first Original; and indeed it is no wonder, because for want of Books they can relate nothing certain, but only what they have Registred in their usual _Quipocamagos_, which is not above four hundred years old. _Acosta_ asking what Original they judg’d they were of, and from what Countrey and People deriv’d? receiv’d no other Answer, but that _America_ only was their native Countrey, and that they were deriv’d from no other elsewhere. But though the _Peruvians_ are of this Opinion, yet the _Mexicans_ are of another mind, giving the _Spaniards_ a far better Account when first they came thither, wherein we must a little deviate, _viz._ How they were remov’d from some other place, as _Robert Comtæus_ relates, who with many Learned and seemingly true Arguments affirms, That the Original of the _Americans_ must be sought for either among the _Phenicians_, _Sydonians_, _Tyrians_, or _Carthaginians_, being indeed all one People. _Herodotus_ saith thus of the _Phenicians_, “They liv’d formerly, according to their own Relation, along the Shore of the _Red-Sea_; from whence removing, they planted the Sea-Coast of the _Syrians_.” _Festus Avienus_ the _Latin_ Poet agrees with this Opinion, where he saith, _On the_ Phenicians _Coasts the Ocean beats_, _Who through the_ Red-Sea _Sailing, chang’d their Seats. They were the first that ventur’d through the Seas, And freighted Ships with richer Merchandize: Fair or foul Weather, They without controule! Sought Foreign Trade, directed by the Pole_. [Sidenote: Original and Habitations of the _Phenicians_, of whom, according to several Learned, the _Americans_ are extracted.] _Aristotle_ from a _Greek_ Word calls them _Phenicians_, from their being red or bloody with the Slaughter of all Strangers that Landed on their Coast; but rather, and so indeed they are call’d _Phenicians_, or _Erythreans_, from _Esau_, or _Edom_, from whom they are deriv’d; for these two Words, or Denominations, signifie in _Greek, Red_; the two last, the like in _Hebrew_. _Phenix_ himself first planted all the Countrey lying between the River _Eleutherus_, and the _Egyptian_ City _Pelusium_; and afterwards _Damiata_, wash’d by the _Mediterrane_: But since, these Boundaries are alter’d, on the North, by _Judea_; Westward, by the _Mediterrane_; Southerly, by _Egypt_; and towards the East, by the Desart _Arabia_. The chiefest Cities are _Ptolemais_, otherwise call’d _Acon_, _Sidon_, _Arad_, _Great Cana_, _Sarepta_, _Biblis_, _Bothris_, _Berithus_, and their Princess _Tyre_, formerly scituate in an Isle, but since joyn’d to the Main-Land by _Alexander the Great_. [Sidenote: _Herodot._ lib. 1 .] [Sidenote: _Salust_ in _Igurtha_.] [Sidenote: Wonderful Power of the _Phenicians_.] None can disown, but that the _Phenicians_ have every where been Admirals of the Sea; so that they were formidable to the greatest Princes. When the _Persian_ King _Cambyses_ came with a vast Army against the _Carthaginians_, he was forc’d to give over his Design, because the _Phenicians_ refus’d to help him with their Fleet, being allied to, and the City founded by them: But they not only built _Carthage_, which strove with _Rome_ to be the Empress of the World, but also the famous Cities _Leptis_, _Utica_, _Hippo_, and _Adrumetum_ in _Africa_, with _Cadiz_ and _Tartessus_ in _Spain_; nay, they sent Plantations of People into the Heart of _Iberia_ and _Lybia_. It will not be amiss to add _Q. Curtius_ his Relation, who tells us, “Where-ever the _Phenicians_ came with their Fleets, Landing their Men, they subdu’d whole Countreys, and by that means spread their Colonies over the known World; _Carthage_ in _Africa_, _Thebes_ in _Boetia_, and _Cadiz_ near the _Western Ocean_.” _Aristotle_ relates, “That they made such rich Returns of their Merchandize, and chiefly of their Oyl, in _Spain_, that their Anchors, Pins, and all Iron Materials belonging to a Ship, in stead of that Metal, were Silver.” [Sidenote: Testimonies that the _Americans_ are deriv’d from the _Phenicians_.] [Sidenote: First Testimony.] [Sidenote: Is contradicted.] [Sidenote: _Lib. 3. Geogr._] [Sidenote: _Flemmish Islands._] [Sidenote: _Lib. 17._] But to return to our Discourse, and disprove the former Testimony, That the _Phenicians_ found _America_. The formention’d _Comtæus_ saith thus; “None can justly doubt, but that since the _Phenicians_ took the Command of the Sea from the _Rhodians_, they more and more increas’d their Fleets, and growing experter in Navigation, passing the _Gibraltar_ Northward, became Masters of _Cadiz_, and still prepar’d new Fleets, which searching beyond _Atlas_ Southward, discover’d the Coasts of _Africa_, and the adjacent Isles, driving a great Trade to the _Canaries_, and to those which lay scatter’d along _Cape de Verd_, formerly call’d the _Gorgades_. This way of Trade also was not unknown to the _Greeks_, _Iberians_, and other People; but after the _Phenicians_ assum’d it wholly to themselves, without any respect or difference of Countreys, they sunk all whomsoever they could catch.” _Curtius_ further adds, saying, “I believe that the _Phenicians_, sailing into the Main Ocean, have discover’d unknown Countreys.” And which are those? Not the _Gorgades_, or _Canary Isles_; for those were sufficiently known before; but a Main Land, far beyond. But though the _Phenicians_ were most expert, yet not skilful enough to make out such Discoveries. They indeed were the first that before any other sail’d out of the Mid-land Sea; nay, they ventur’d a good way into the main Ocean, beyond the _Straights of Gibraltar_, or the _Herculean Pillars_: But how far? Not to the _Gorgades_, above half way betwixt _Spain_ and _America_; but to the _Cassiterides_, or _Flemish Islands_, which to the number of nine lie in sight of _Spain_. _Strabo_ affirms this Truth, saying, “The _Cassiterides_ are ten, lying in order close by one another: One remains uninhabited; on the rest live a swarthy People.” This way the _Phenicians_ sail’d first, when they were in quest for Trade, from _Cadiz_. And though he reckons ten, there are indeed but nine, _viz._ _St. Michael_, _St. Mary_, _St. George_, _Tercera_, _de Pico_, or _Tenariff_, so call’d from the Mountain which vomits Fire, _Fayal_, _Las Flores_, _Del Cuervo_, and _Gratiosa_. Moreover, the same _Strabo_ relates, “That the _Carthaginians_ did not throw over-board the Traders on the remote _Gorgades_, but those especially that came from _Sardinia_ or _Cadiz_.” [Sidenote: _Salt-Islands_ how long known.] [Sidenote: _Joan. Mariana de Reb. Hispan._ lib. 1. cap. 20.] [Sidenote: Very remarkable Voyage of _Hanno_ the _Carthaginian_, along the Coast of _Africa_ to the _Salt-Islands_.] [Sidenote: Strange Vision.] [Sidenote: The Ancients believ’d Baboons to be Men.] Mean while, we cannot deny, but that the _Gorgades_ that lye before _Cape de Verd_ were frequented by the _Carthaginians_, long before the Birth of our Savior; but with so much admiration, that _Hanno_ their Captain in that Expedition was listed amongst the number of their Heroes, hapning thus: The _Carthaginians_ sailing for _Cadiz_, to assist the _Phenicians_ against the _Spaniards_, made that the Seat of War, which soon drew on a greater Design; for _Hamilco_ and _Hanno_ being impowr’d by the Senate at _Carthage_, manag’d the War in _Spain_. Both of them were ambitious to discover new Countreys. _Hamilco_ sail’d along the Coast of _Spain_ and _Gaule_, reaching to _Batavia_. _Hanno_ steer’d Southerly, carrying thirty thousand Men of all Trades in his Fleet, purposing to build a new City in some place or other, and got beyond the Promontory _Ampelusium_, now call’d _Cabo Spatil_; the River _Ziloa_, which washeth the City _Arzilla_; and the Stream _Lix_, now _Lusso_, where the Poets place the Gardens of the _Hesperides_, in the custody of a waking Dragon: From thence proceeding on his Voyage, he came to an Anchor in the Mouth of the River _Subur_, at this day call’d _Subu_; and afterwards before the City _Sala_, now call’d _Salle_, at that time made very dangerous by the voracious Beasts in the neighboring Woods: At last the Fleet reach’d the Foot of the lesser _Atlas_, which ends at the Point _Chaunaria_, by the Modern Navigators call’d _Cabo Non_, because it was judg’d, that none could scape with Life, that durst adventure to steer beyond _Chaunaria_; yet _Hanno_ sail’d between _Palma_, one of the _Canary-Islands_, and the Promontory _Bojadoris_, towards the pointed Coast call’d then _Cornu Hesperium_, but now _Cape Verd_, in the River _Asama_, by _Castaldus_ call’d _Omirabi_: Here he found horrible Croccodiles, and _Hippopotami_ or Sea-Horses. _Atsama_ is held to flow from the same Fountain whence the _Nyle_ hath its Original. In this Latitude _Hanno_ descried those Islands which he call’d _Gorgones_ (from the three deform’d Sisters _Medusa_, _Sthenio_, and _Euryale_, whose Heads were Periwig’d with curl’d Serpents) because they found as illfavor’d Women on these Islands, which at this day the _Hollanders_ call the _Salt-Islands_; amongst which, the chiefest is _St. Jago_, a Colony of _The Portuguese_; but the Mountains opposite to the _Gorgones_, on the main Coast of _Africa_, rising aloft with spiring tops near the River _Masitholus_, _Hanno_ call’d the _Chariots of the Gods_, now nam’d _Sierra Liona_, lying in eight Degrees Northern Latitude. When _Hanno_ and his Armado, either provok’d by an undaunted Courage, or covetous of fame, if they proceeded in their so wonderful Adventure, went forward, where they reported, that they saw Rivers of Fire falling into the Ocean, the Countrey all about burning, and the tops of the Mountains dazleing their Eyes with continual Flashes of Lightning, intermix’d with terrible Thunder; adding further, That the Natives all the Summer shelter’d themselves from the excessive Heat, in Caves under Ground; and coming forth in the night, run abroad with lighted Torches over their Ground, so gathering in their Harvest, and Officiating all other Affairs of Husbandry: Yet _Hanno_ no ways daunted at such strange Sights, sail’d from _Sierra Liona_ Southerly to the _Æquinox_, where he discover’d an Island not far from the _African_ Coast, inhabited by a rough and hairy People, to take some of whom, he us’d all possible means, yet could not; onely two Women, being incompass’d by Soldiers, were taken, and carried aboard; but being very salvage, and barbarously wild, could not be tamed, or brought to any Complacency; so they kill’d them, and carried their stuff’d-up Skins to _Carthage_, where they were a long time gaz’d upon with great admiration. [Sidenote: The Island _St. Thomas_.] This Island which _Hanno_ then found, can be no other but that which we call _St. Thomas_, and hath a very unhealthy Air for Strangers, but else very fruitful, and abounding with Sugar-Canes; and the hairy People which he makes mention of, were _Babeons_, or _Baboons_, which _Africa_ in this place breeds large, to the amazement of the Beholders, in great abundance; because those deform’d Monsters, more than any other Beast whatsoever, represent Humane shape. [Sidenote: _Hanno_’s Return.] [Sidenote: Is for his Voyage plac’d amongst the Gods.] Here _Hanno_ stopp’d his Voyage, being hindred from going further for want of Provision. Five years he spent in this Expedition, before he Anchor’d again at _Cadiz_, from whence not long after he steer’d to his Native Countrey _Carthage_, where he was receiv’d with no less Wonder than State, insomuch that none before or after him ever gain’d greater Honor, seeming to oblige his Countrey with the hopes of future Profits from these new discover’d Regions: Nay, he receiv’d a Name, and was plac’d amongst their Gods in the Temples, which he being ambitious of, promoted after a strange manner, teaching several Birds to cry, _The great God Hanno_; which when they could speak perfect, they were let fly in the Air, where to the admiration of all People, they every where repeated their well-taught Lesson. This the most remarkable Voyage which hapned in the time of the Ancients, considering they wanted several Mathematical Instruments belonging to Navigation, and especially the use of the Compass; and also considering the length of the Voyage to _Sierra Liona_, whither never any durst venture before: Nay, in so many Ages after _Hanno_, the famousest Navigators which were set out by the King of _Portugal_, fear’d a long time to cut their Passage through the _Æquinoctial-Line_; however in long Process of time, divers Experiments were made, which have now so much improv’d the Art of Navigation. [Sidenote: Testimony that _America_ was not known to the Ancients.] _Hanno_’s Voyage was four hundred years before the Birth of our Savior; therefore if none have been further than _Hanno_, until the time the _Portuguese_ sail’d beyond _Cape de Bona Esperanza_, how could _America_ be discover’d by Sea? How did they steer from the _Salt-Islands_, or _St. Thomas_, out of sight of Land, through the Main Ocean, to an unknown World? _Hanno_ himself, who was the stoutest of all Ancient Navigators, not only crept along the _African_ Coast, which made him spend so much time; but not daring to cross over those wide spreading Bays he found, left not his hold of the Shore, and measur’d and search’d every winding Inlet and Creek: And if he found a New World, why was it not known? The more, because his Ambition carry’d him on to get a Name and Reputation by such Naval Discoveries. And how true the Relation of this Expedition is, _Pliny_ tells us, saying, The Journal-Books were then to be seen which _Hanno_ writ in that his _African_ Expedition: Though many of the _Greeks_, and also of our Moderns, following _Hanno_, have found several things contrary to his Observations, wherein he makes mention of several Cities built by him, which none ever since heard of, or any have seen, neither is there the least Marks of their Ruines to be found. This large Relation serves for nothing else, but to shew that they seek in vain herein to give the Honor of the Discovery of _America_ to the Ancients; And as little do those Testimonies signifie that are taken out of _Diodorus Siculus_, _Pliny_, _Pomponius Mela_, and _Ælian_. It will be worth our time to hear every one of them particularly. [Sidenote: _Lib. 6. cap. 7._] [Sidenote: Second Testimony, that the _Americans_ are deriv’d from the _Phenicians_.] First, _Diodorus_ saith, “Beyond _Lybia_, in the Ocean, lies a very great Island, several days sailing in Circumference, having a very fruitful Soil, and pleasant Meadows, distinguish’d by Hills, and moistned by Navigable Rivers, unknown in Ancient Times, because it seems to be separated from the other World, and was thus found: The _Phenicians_ sailing along the _Lybian_ Coast, were several days and nights toss’d with perpetual Tempests, and at last driven to the foremention’d Island, where Anchoring, and observing the pleasant Scituation thereof, made it known to their Magistrates.” [Sidenote: _Is contradicted._] But how comes this nameless Island to be _America_? What Man would take that for an Island, which far exceeds the main Continent of _Asia_? And have the _Phenicians_ ascrib’d the finding of this New World to any? Whence then proceeds such great silence amongst all the Ancient Writers of a whole World, who otherwise us’d to give Denominations to the least remote Village, or Mountain, or River? [Sidenote: _Lib. 5. cap. 1._ Description of _Atlas_.] _Pliny_ speaks after the same manner, saying, “The Writers make mention, that _Atlas_ rises out of the middle of the Sands, with a Shrubby and Bushy top towards the Sky, on the Shore of the Ocean to which he gives his Denomination; That it is full of Woods, and water’d by several Fountains on that side towards _Africa_, by which means it bears all manner of Fruit. In the Day-time none of the Inhabitants appear, all things being in silence, as in the middle of a Desart; the Approacher is struck with sudden amazement. And besides its excessive high Crown, reaching above the Clouds, and neighboring, as they say, the Circle of the Moon, appears in the Night as if it were all in a Flame, resounding far and near with Pipes, Trumpets, and Cymbals; and the Journey up thither, very long and dangerous.” I cannot understand that _Pliny_ can mean _America_ by this, because himself, in the first Division of his Fifth Book, makes his beginning with the Description of _Africa_: And as to what further concerns the strange Relation and danger thereof, is a little before related in _Hanno_’s Voyage; and it is but a slight Argument to prove it _America_, because it seems to resound with those sorts of Instruments which the _Americans_ were observ’d to use when discover’d. [Sidenote: _Lib. 1. cap. 4._] [Sidenote: Strange Men.] _Pomponius Mela_ being the third, hath no greater Arguments than the former. “We hear (says he) that utmost People towards the West, being the _Atlanticans_, are rather half Beasts than Men, cloven-footed, without Heads, their Faces upon their Breasts, and naked, with one great Foot, like Satyrs or Goblins, which range up and down, without any Artificial Shelters or Houses.” [Sidenote: _Lib. 3. cap. 18._] [Sidenote: Discourse between _Midas_ and _Silenus_ concerning the Unknown World.] Lastly, _Ælian_ seems to say something, when he sets down the Discourse between _Midas_ and _Silenus_, out of _Theopompus_, where _Silenus_ relates, “That _Europe_, _Asia_, and _Lybia_ are Islands; and that a vast Countrey lyes beyond this his tripple-divided World, mighty Populous, and abounding with all other Living Creatures, as big again as ours, and living twice as long: That they are wondrous rich; their Religions, Laws, and Customs, founded upon another Morality and Reason, quite different from ours. They boast especially of two great Cities, _Machimus_ and _Eusebes_; the Inhabitants of the first maintaining themselves by driving altogether a Trade of War, mustering up, and filling their numerous Regiments with several valiant Nations. The Listed Citizens amount in their Muster-Rolls, all bred to Soldiery, to two Millions, of whom few but scorn either dying bravely by Wounds receiv’d With Flint-edg’d Laths, and Staves, in stead of Spears, pointed with Stones, not knowing the use of Iron or Steel, but so over-stock’d with Gold and Silver, that they account it a Drug of less Value than our basest Metal. Some Years since they march’d into our World, a hundred thousand strong, as far as the _Hyperborean_ Mountains, where being inform’d, that all the Nations of our World, compar’d with them, liv’d in a poor and despicable condition; as not thinking them worth their Conquest, they return’d. But the second City _Eusebes_, deals altogether in Peace, and its Citizens are not rapacious, but exercise Justice, so much affecting Morality and Divine Worship, that they conquer Heaven by their Piety and Meekness, and the Gods themselves are pleas’d to descend, and advise with them concerning their Celestial Affairs.” Who observes not this to be a Poetical Relation, shewing how much better the Acquirements of Peace are, than those of War; the one conquering only Men, the other, the Gods? Nor can more be taken out of _Ælian_’s Discourse, but that the Ancients believ’d there was another Habitable World to be our _Antipodes_. [Sidenote: Inquiries whether the Constitutions of the _Phenicians_ agree with the _Americans_.] Thus far hath been disputed concerning the Original of the _Americans_, whose Plantations from _Tyre_ or _Carthage_ by Sea, are found altogether invalid: Yet we will search a little further, to see whether the People Analogize, either in their Religion, Policy, Oeconomy, or Customs. It is certain, that the ancient _Phenicians_ liv’d in Tents, and sometimes exchang’d eaten-up Pastures for fresh, which the _Americans_ to this day observe; by which it might appear, that they are of a _Phenician_ Extract. But why not as well deriv’d from _Numidia_, _Tartary_, or the ancient Patriarchs, who all liv’d such an unsettl’d wandering Life? Besides, the _Phenicians_ had a long time given over Pastoral Business, for Maritime Affairs of greater consequence, not only Merchandizing through all the World, but sending great Colonies in Ships to new Plantations: And moreover, the _Americans_ could not so strangely degenerate from their Ancestors, but would have built great Cities like them; of which many were found in _Phenicia_, but none of Antiquity in _America_. [Sidenote: As also both their Religions.] As to their Religion, if it agreed with the _Phenicians_, it was the same that all the World profess’d at that time, and therefore may as well be extracted from any other, as them: ’Tis true, we find them inclin’d to Sorcery, and dealing with Evil Spirits, as the _Phenicians_, in which they were not only guilty, but all other Nations at that time. [Sidenote: The Known World formerly full of Witches.] [Sidenote: _De Nat. Dæmon._ l. 3.] [Sidenote: _Lucan._ lib. 6.] Nay, why not as well transported out of _Asia_ or _Europe_, where were formerly many the like Tamperers, and those that dealt in such Diabolical Sciences? And why not from _Salmantica_, where, as _Laurentius Ananias_ relates, Magick-Arts were publickly taught, and they commenc’d Doctors, and took their Degrees according to their Learning? The Devil also hath publick Worship amongst the _Americans_, and so he had with the _Phenicians_: yet not only they, but the whole World had dedicated Temples to him. Here began Humane and Infernal Sacrifices, supposing that Evil Spirits were delighted, and so feasted with the Steam of Humane Offerings, whose sweetness made them milder, and so intoxicating, lull’d them into less mischief. [Sidenote: Devil-worship formerly us’d in all the World, and now by the _Americans_.] [Sidenote: _Lev. 17. 6._] [Sidenote: Idols in Ships.] How famous is _Zoroaster_, and the whole School of the Eastern Magicians? In _Moses_’s time this Wickedness had already took place: Nor can it be deny’d but that the _Phenicians_ carry’d their Idols in their Ships, as _Herodotus_ testifies, saying, “The Image of _Vulcan_ much resembles the _Phenicians Patacoioi_, which they plac’d on the Fore-castle of their Ships.” In like manner, the _Americans_ when they go to Sea, carry their Idols with them; and the Ships took Name from the Image, which was either painted or carv’d on the Stern, or plac’d elsewhere upon the Deck. The same Custom the _Chineses_ observe to this present: _Francis Xaverius_ relates, “That he sail’d in a _Chinese_ Vessel from _Goa_ to _Japan_, which bore an Idol in its Stern, before which the Master lighted Candles, perfum’d it with Aloe-wood, and offer’d Birds and other Food, inquiring of it the Event of his Voyage. Sometimes he judg’d from the Statues immovable Looks, that it would fall out successfully; and other times, not.” [Sidenote: _De abstinent. Animal._ l. 2.] [Sidenote: _Prepar. Evang._ lib. 1.] Lastly, _Porphyrius_ relates, “That the _Phenicians_ upon any great Exigency, as War, excessive Heat, or Mortal Distempers, by order selected one of the most comely and beautiful of their Children, to be offer’d up to _Saturn_.” And _Eusebius_ saith also out of _Porphyrius_, “That _Saturn_, whom the _Phenicians_ call _Israel_, the Learned _Vossius_ and _Hugo Grotius_ read _Il_, or _El_ (one of the ten Names of God in _Hebrew_) which they also give to the Planet _Saturn_, who when he Reign’d in _Phenicia_, having one only Son born by the Nymph _Anobret_, and was in danger to lose his Kingdom, being worsted in an unlucky War, he dress’d him in Royal Robes, and placing him on an Altar built for that purpose, sacrific’d him with his own Hands.” [Sidenote: Men and Children used for Sacrifices by the _Phenicians_ and other People.] [Sidenote: Who forbade the sacrificing of Men.] And although such like cruel Oblations are us’d in _America_, must it therefore follow, that they are deriv’d from the _Phenicians_, when several other People are guilty of the same? Nay, there is scarce one Countrey, which hath not at some time or other perform’d such inhumane Acts, seeming to them Zeal in their Religion; for the most eminent of the Heathens scrupled not at it, which certainly are held to be the _Persians_, _Greeks_, and _Romans_; and yet they were not abhorr’d, though committing Humane Slaughters. This holy Butchery and Religious Slaughter of Mankind began in _Rome_ in the Emperor _Adrian_’s Reign, so continuing till the time of _Tertullian_, _Lactantius_, and _Eusebius_. The _Greeks_ which inhabited the utmost part of _Italy_, employ’d themselves daily in Sacrificing Strangers to _Saturn_, and sometimes one another. But at last this formal Cruelty became a ridiculous Custom; for the _Romans_ by severe Edicts strictly forbad all such Humane Offerings: Yet that they might retain some memory of their former Sacrifices, they order’d thirty Images to be made of Rushes, which every year on the fifteenth of _April_, were by the _Roman_ Priests and Vestal Nuns, to be thrown from the _Milvian_ Bridge into the _Tyber_. [Sidenote: _Lib. de Superstit._] Moreover, _Manethon_ relates, “That the _Egyptians_ in _Heliopolis_ us’d to offer three Men at once to _Juno_; which Custom was observ’d till King _Amasis_ order’d, That in stead of Men, they should serve her with Wax Candles.” _Amestris_, Queen to the famous _Xerxes_, caus’d twelve Men to be burn’d alive, as an Oblation, to pacifie and oblige _Pluto_ to maintain them in their present Grandeur. [Sidenote: _Rer. Persic._ l. 1.] _Procopius_ relates of the People about the _Arabian Gulph_, “That they oftentimes Sacrific’d Men to the Sun.” [Sidenote: _Lib. 3. sect. 8 Geogr._] “The _Indians_, saith _Pomponius Mela_, kill their nearest Relations and Parents, before they decay by Sickness or Age, and judg’d it fit and most Religious to Feast and Banquet themselves with the Entrails of the slain.” [Sidenote: _Lib. 11. Geog._] The _Albanians_, as _Strabo_ relates, offer yearly one of their Priests to the Moon. The same _Mela_ relates of the _Tauri_, That they us’d to cut the Throats of Strangers, whenever they came near to the Place of their Sacrifice. [Sidenote: _Lib. 2. cap. 1_.] The _Egyptian_ Idol _Typhon_, as you may read in _Manethon_, was daily made red-hot, and living People put in, and broyl’d to death. [Sidenote: _Bell. Gall. Comm._] But to pass by several other People guilty of such bloody Idolatry, How did the Altars erected in the Woods in _Gaul_ and _Germany_, for _Taran_, _Hesus_, _Teutates_, and _Woden_, continually smoke with the Blood of Humane Expiations? Of which _Cæsar_ saith thus in his _Commentaries_; “The _Gauls_ are a very Devout and Superstitious Nation; and therefore when any were dangerously sick, or likely to be worsted in Battel, they vow’d to feast their Gods that sav’d them with Humane Flesh, and if need were, would make themselves a thankful Sacrifice to those that help’d them off in such an Exigence. Concerning these bloody Rites, they consulted and imploy’d the _Druydes_, by whose advice they all believ’d that no Victim was so acceptable to the _Numens_, as pour’d-out Humane Blood, but especially that of Malefactors; which Dainty if they could not procure, their Gods must be treated with the Lives of the Innocent.” [Sidenote: _2 Reg. 3. v. 26, 27._] Lastly, the Holy Scripture saith thus, _When the King of_ Moab _saw that the Battel was too sore for him, he took with him seven hundred Men that drew Swords, to break through even to the King of_ Edom; _but they could not. Then he took his eldest Son, that should have reigned in his stead, and offered him for a Burnt-offering on the Wall._ These Testimonies are sufficient Witnesses, That the Ancient _Heathens_ express’d the height of their Devotion, and fury of mad Zeal, in such execrable Rites, as to this day the like is practised by the _Indians_, _Chineses_, _Japanners_, and others: Wherefore it can no ways be a sufficient ground to prove, that the _Americans_ are deriv’d from the _Phenicians_, because of their Humane Sacrifices, for that they were usual Customs in all Places. [Sidenote: Third testimony, That the _Americans_ are deriv’d from the _Phenicians_, because their Language agrees] [Sidenote: Is contradicted.] The third Proof they offer us, is borrow’d from the similitude and likeness of the _Phenician_ and _American_ Languages: _Comtœus_ sets down some Words, _viz._ the _Phenicians_ call’d a Mountain, _Abila_; Blood, _Edom_; a Mother, _Anech_; a Maid, _Hellotia_; Water, _Heni_, and _Jam_: With the first agrees the _American_ _Anthla_; with the second, _Holedonch_; with the third, _Anam_; with the fourth, _Hellotie_; with the fifth, _Ame_, and _Jame_. But those that will thus corrupt the Words, may as well make the unseemliest Comparisons. It is certain, that the _Phenicians_ and some of the _Americans_ call a Cup _Asur_, and Red Wine, _Belàsa_; But does it therefore follow by this, that the one is extracted from the other? How many Names do signifie all one, amongst People that never had any Conversation together? This proceeds only from meer accident; Or else if some Words of one, sound like the same Words us’d in a remote Countrey, and be of one signification, must they therefore be deriv’d from one another? Then upon necessity the _Greeks_, _Latins_, and _Germans_ had their Original from the _Hebrews_, or the _Latins_ from the _Greeks_, or the _Germans_ from the _Latins_, or the _Persians_ from the _Germans_; or, on the contrary, the last owe their Extract to the first. I will as a Testimony, and to give you a Pattern, pick out a few from a greater number. [Sidenote: _Greek_ and _Hebrew_ agree] [Sidenote: Also the _Hebrew_ and _Latin_.] How little difference is there in many Words between the _Greek_ and _Hebrew_? The _Hebrews_ call a Church-Congregation _Sanhedrim_, the Greeks Συνέδριον; the Greeks for _I advise_, use πείθω, the other פתה; the _Hebrews_ call Wise-men _Zophei_, the other Σόφοι: And less difference there is between _Symphoniah_ and Συμφονία, _A well-set Lesson_; or _Psanterin_ and Ψαλτέριον, _A Spiritual Hymn_: And who also will not find a near resemblance in the consonating of divers _Latin_ and _Hebrew_ Words? For there is little difference betwixt _Mesurah_ and _Mensura_, _a Measure_; _Shekar_ and _Saccarus_, _a sweet Moisture_; _Levya_ and _Leæna_, _a Lioness_, _Sabbeca_ and _Sambuca_, _a Chopping-board_; _Pesa_ and _Passus_, _a Pace_. [Sidenote: Likewise the _Teutonick_, the great Language of _Germany_, _Britain_, the _Low-Countreys_, and other Northern Nations.] Then starting over the _Greek_ and _Latin_, the _Teutonicks_ would likewise produce many Words which have the same sound and signification with the _Hebrew_; as _Chobel_, _a Cable_; _Ethmol_ and _Etmael_, _Watching_; _Sothim_ and _Sotten_, _Fools_; the _Hebrew_ _Arets_, is in _Dutch_, _Aerde_, or as we in _English_, _Ear’d Lands_; _Phert_ and _Peert_, _a Horse_; _Levyah_ and _Leeuw_, _a Lion_; _Shad_ and _Schadea_, _Damages_; _Kisse_ and _Kussen_, in our Dialect the very same, _Kisse_; _Shaken_ and _Schenken_, _a giving_, whence we derive our _English_ _Skinker_, from serving of Drink; _Bel_ and _Beeld_, _an Image_; for _Bel_ properly signifies _Lord_, perhaps because the Images of Heroes or Lords were worshipp’d by them, or else because _Ninus_ first erected an Image for his Father _Belus_, or _Bel_, to be worshipp’d. [Sidenote: _Greek_ and _Latin_ Tongues agree.] [Sidenote: _Abrah. Milii, Ling. Belg._ c. 5, 6, 7, 11.] It would make a large Volume it self, to reckon up the Consonancies of the _Hebrew_, _Greek_, and _Latin_, and their scatterings among all Languages where ever their Empire spread, the one being indeed borrow’d from the other, as all Languages that deal or have any converse together: For not only the Words, with some small Alterations of Letters, signifie the same in both Languages; but also without the least alteration. Both _Greeks_ and _Latins_ express _I do_, by _Ago_; the Number _Eight_, by _Octo_; _an Arm_, by _Brachium_ or _Brachion_, in _English_, _Branches_, and _Braces_; _I eat_, by _Edo_; _a Cup_, by _Phiale_; _a Curtain_, by _Cortina_, or _Cortine_; _Merry_, by _Hilaris_, or _Hilaros_; _a ratling Noise or Sound_, by _Clango_; _a Camel_, by _Camelus_, or _Camelos_; _a Knee_, by _Genu_, or _Gonu_; _a Bowl_ or _Chalice_, by _Calix_; _a Mouse_, by _Mus_; _Deceit_, by _Dolus_, or _Dolos_; _a House_, by _Domus_, or _Domos_; _I carry_, by _Fero_, or _Phero_; the Pronoun _I_, _Ego_; _a Lion_, by _Leo_, or Λέων; _Flax_, by _Linum_, or _Linon_; _a Mother_, by _Mater_, or _Meter_; _now_, by _nunc_, or _nun_; _the Night_, by _Nox_, or _Nux_; _a Rock-stone_, by _Petra_; _a Nick-name_, by _Scomma_, or _Skomma_; _a Boat_, by _Scapha_, or _Skaphe_; _a Treasure_, by _Thesaurus_, or _Thesauros_; _Father_, by _Pater_; _I tremble_, by _Tremo_; _an Hour_, by _Hora_; _the Evening_, by _Vespera_, or _Hespera_; and an innumerable many Words more, that are of one signification in both. [Sidenote: _Phenician_ and _American_ Tongues have no similitude.] [Sidenote: _Americans_ much divided in Speech and People.] Now if there is not the hundredth part of the resemblance found between the _American_ and _Phenician_ Tongues, as there is between the _Hebrew_, _Greek_, _Latin_, and _Dutch_, according to the foremention’d Examples, which notwithstanding cannot be observ’d to be deriv’d from one another, what testimony can there be in five or six Words, which only have a few Letters that do not differ? But suppose that the agreeing of the _Phenician_ and _American_ Tongues could serve for a testimony; that these last People had their Original from the first, then there remains another doubt, _viz._ To know what _Americans_ acknowledge the _Phenicians_ for their Fathers; because their Countrey is so big, that it may almost stand in competition with all the other three parts of the Known World, being divided by so many Nations, which differ not only in their various Customs, but also in their several Languages, most of them not having the least likeness one with another: Nay, often times the Inhabitants of one Province differ so much in Dialect, that, according to _Petrus de Cieca_, the one cannot understand the other. [Sidenote: In _America_ one Tongue is not at all like the other.] [Sidenote: _Decad. 3._] [Sidenote: _De Laet. Orig. Amer. obs. 5._] _John de Laet_ observes out of _Peter Martyr_, and other Writers concerning the _West-Indies_, That there are several Languages and strange Words spoken among the divers Inhabitants of _America_; for the _Hurones_ call a Head _Sionta_; the _Mexicans_, _Tzontecontli_; the Inhabitants of _New-Netherland_, _Anonsi_; the _Brasilians_, _Acanga_; the _Jaos_, _Boppe_: the Figures One, Two, Three, and Four, the _Hurones_ tell thus, _Escate_, _Teni_, _Hachin_, _Dac_; the _Mexicans_, _Ce_, _Ome_, _Yei_, _Nabuy_; the _Sankikanders_, _Cotte_, _Nysse_, _Nacha_, _Wyve_; the _Brasilians_, _Oyepe_, _Mocoy_, _Mocapir_, _Oirundi_; the _Jaos_, _Tewyn_, _Tage_, _Terrewaw_, _Tagyne_; the Natives of _New-Netherland_, _Onsat_, _Tiggani_, _Asse_, _Cayere_. Moreover the _Hurones_ call a Father _Aystan_; the _Mexicans_, _Tathli_; the _Canadensers_, _Notaovi_; in _New-Netherland_, _Ragina_; in _Brasile_, _Tuba_: And so it is generally with all other Words, which agree not in the least one with the other; so that every Territory hath not only a several Dialect, but in many Places they use besides two, three, or more distinct Speeches, not relating in the least one to another, in one Province, by which the People inhabiting Towns and Villages are distinguish’d. The Islanders discover’d by the _Spaniards_, and destroy’d, have left few Words behind them; yet _Peter Martyr_ sets down some of them, which were formerly us’d in _Hispaniola_: They call’d Heaven _Tures_; a House, _Boa_; Gold, _Cauni_; a good Man, _Tayno_. It is worthy of observation, that they pronounce no _H_ in their Language, but what is spoken with a Vowel, and then give it a strong Aspiration, like the warbling guttural ע _Ghain_ of the _Hebrews_. [Sidenote: _Gen. 9. v. 25, 26, 27._] [Sidenote: _Gen. 10. v. 15._] [Sidenote: Last Testimonies of the _Americans_ Extract from the _Phenicians_.] [Sidenote: Is contradicted.] [Sidenote: _Franc. Burman._ _in_ Gen. 25. 30.] [Sidenote: _Phenicians_ deriv’d from _Esau_.] Our last and chiefest Testimony is _Moses_, who says thus in _Genesis_, _Cursed be_ Canaan, _a Servant of Servants shall he be unto his Brethren. Moreover he said, Blessed be the Lord God of_ Shem, _and_ Canaan _shall be his Servant: God shall inlarge_ Japhet, _and he shall dwell in the Tents of_ Shem; _and_ Canaan _shall be his Servant._ And in the next Chapter, _Canaan_ begat _Sidon_. These Scriptures are explain’d as a Testimony of the _Americans_ Extract from the _Phenicians_, which they ground on these following Reasons: The _Phenicians_ are _Canaan_’s Successors from _Sidon_, who gave name to their chief City. _Tubal_ the Issue of _Japhet_, whose Tents God promis’d to enlarge, and that _Canaan_ should be his Servant, planted _Spain_. The _Phenicians_, descendants from _Sydon_, (say they) Peopled _America_; the _Spaniards_ sprung from _Tubal_, of _Japhet_, have subjected the _Americans_, descended from _Sydon_, of _Canaan_; wherein is fulfill’d that Prophecy of _Moses_, _That_ Canaan _should be Servant to_ Japhet; but it seems a great mistake, so to derive the _Phenicians_ from _Canaan_, for they are Extracted from _Shem_, _Heber_, _Abraham_, and _Esau_, sirnam’d _Edom_, from his saying, _Adom, Adom_, when he ask’d of _Jacob_, _That Red, That Red_, because he knew not how to call the prepared Pottage by its proper Name; And _Edom_ setling himself on Mount _Seir_, a part of the Stony _Arabia_, and on the Coast of the _Red-Sea_, gave denomination to it, because that Sea was much frequented and Navigated by his Successors. The _Greeks_ call it _Erythreum_, from _Erythros_, who is the same with _Esau_, and likewise signifies _Red_. Hereto is added, That _Phænix_ and _Erythros_ have the same signification in the _Greek_; So then, these _Idumeans_ taking the name of _Phenicians_, from the great _Phœnix_, spread themselves far and near under mighty Kings, by Navigation in the _Red-Sea_, and from thence Planted several Coasts and Islands, removing at last to _Syria_. [Sidenote: Gen. 36. 39.] [Sidenote: _Com. in_ Jer. l. 4. c. 25.] [Sidenote: _In_ Ps. 136. _Voss. Orig. Idol._ l. 1. c. 31.] [Sidenote: _Punick_ Tongue.] [Sidenote: _Hebrew._] The seventh King of _Edom_, _Moses_ reckoneth to be _Baal-hanan_, which name, by transposing the Syllables, the famous _Carthaginian_ General _Hannibal_ bare. Moreover, it may easily be demonstrated, that the _Phenicians_ Extracted from _Heber_, have formerly spoke _Hebrew_, and since _Arabick_; for they dwelt before their removing, in the Stony-_Arabia_. St. _Jerom_ saith, the _Punick_ Tongue agrees for the most part with the _Hebrew_: And St. _Austin_ tells us, that many, nay, most of the _Carthaginian_ words are _Hebrew_. _Elisa_, _Dido_, the first Foundress of _Carthage_ proves this, for _Elisa_ or _Elissah_, with the _Hebrews_, denotes _A Lamb of my God_; and _Dido_, _A Lover_. But who can find the least likeness, between the _Hebrew_ or _Arabick_ Tongue with the _Americans_? Lastly, Since the _Phenicians_ acknowledge _Esau_ for a Father, what then concerns the _Americans_, the curse of _Canaan_, since they are no more Extracted from _Canaan_, than the _Phenicians_? Thus much concerning the _Phenicians_. [Sidenote: If the _Americans_ were deriv’d from the _Jews_, or the ten Tribes of _Israel_.] [Sidenote: Is contradicted.] Some would derive the _Americans_ from the _Jews_; others, from the ten Tribes of _Israel_, carry’d into captivity. The ground of which Opinions is, That the _Jews_ and _Israelites_ were scatter’d amongst all Nations; therefore they conclude, that _America_ was also Peopled by them, the rather, because the antient _Jews_ and _Americans_ were of one Complexion, and went a like Habited, both going without Shooes, onely wearing Sandals, and an upper Coat over a shorter Linnen Vest. Both are humble, quick of apprehension, and obliging, yet Valiant: But it is certain, they cannot be like the _Jews_, because the _Americans_ change their Habit, according as they live in cold or hot Countreys, and go not in the least like one another. Father _Immanuel_ relates, That he saw a _Brasilian_, not onely stoutly make his party good against three _Portugal_ Soldiers, but had it not been by meer chance, worsted them. Lastly, What Ceremonies of Religious Rites are observ’d by the _Americans_, which are used in _Judaism_? The _Jews_ indeed have transplanted their Circumcision amongst divers Eastern People, and have they onely forgot the first Ceremony and signal Badge of their Religion in _America_, which yet not onely they, but those _Mahumetans_ and other Sectaries punctually observe? [Sidenote: _Jews_ distribution.] [Sidenote: 1 Pet. 1. 1. _Scaliger in Notes ad N. T._] [Sidenote: Joh. 7. 35.] [Sidenote: _L. de Idolo. vanitate._] This makes evident their scatterings about the Face of the Earth, but will not bring them to reach _America_. The Sacred Text sets forth a two-fold description of the _Jews_; The one before the Birth of our Saviour, when they liv’d as strangers in _Pontus_, _Galatia_, _Cappadocia_, _Asia_, and _Bythinia_. _Jerusalem_ was their Metropolis, although others had their chief residence in _Babylon_, and _Alexandria_; for there was an _Asiatick_ and a _European_ dispersion; those of _Asia_ had _Babylon_ for their chief City, and us’d in their Synagogues the _Chaldean_ Translation of the Bible. The _Europeans_ kept their Seat at _Alexandria_, where they had a Temple like that of _Jerusalem_; and whilst they employ’d themselves in the _Greek_ Version of the Holy Scripture, by the seventy two Interpreters, under _Ptolomeus Philadelphus_, they were call’d _Wandering Greeks_: Therefore, certainly the _Americans_ are not deriv’d from these _Jews_, and with as little reason from those, which by _Titus Vespasian_, after the destruction of _Jerusalem_ were driven into several Countreys, for they were never permitted (that I may borrow the words of St. _Cyprian_) to set forward one step, though but as Pilgrims, towards their Native Countrey, but strictly forbidden not to assemble or meet together in any considerable number, which would have been necessary, if they intended to Plant a new World. [Sidenote: 2 Reg. 17. 5.] [Sidenote: 4 Esd. 13. 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46.] A small seeming Testimony is added, being taken out of the fourth Book of _Esdras_, that the ten Tribes of _Israel_ that were carry’d away by _Salmanassar_ with their King _Hosea_ to _Nahalah_, _Habor_, the River _Gozan_, and the Cities of the _Medes_, might be acknowledged for the first Planters of _America_: Concerning which, _Esdras_ saith thus, _The ten Tribes brought over into another Countrey, consulted that they should forsake the multitude of the_ Heathens, _and travel to a remoter Countrey, where no Generation of Mankind had ever liv’d before, there they would maintain their Laws, which they had not observ’d in their Countrey: Whereupon they went thither thorow the narrow entrances of the River_ Euphrates, _for the Almighty stopt the Vains of the River, till they were past over; for thorow the Countrey was a way of a year and halfs Journey: wherefore that Tract of Land is call’d_ Assareth, _then they liv’d there till the last time._ But since these Books of _Esdras_ were not Written by a Prophet, either in the _Hebrew_ Tongue, or allow’d by the _Jews_ to be the Word of God, or any where taken notice of in the _New Testament_; wherefore then is _Assareth_ more _America_ than any other remoter Countrey? [Sidenote: _L. 5. in Ezek. & l. 6. in Jerom._] [Sidenote: 4 Esd. 6. 49, 50. & 14. 21. & 4. 41.] St. _Hierom_ (who certainly had a peculiar knowledge of the condition of the ten Tribes of _Israel_, because he liv’d in _Asia_, and held Correspondence with the _Jews_, that he might perfectly learn the _Hebrew_ Tongue,) relates, “That the ten Tribes (St. _Hierome_ liv’d about the Year four hundred, under the Emperor _Theodosius_) underwent great slavery in the Cities of _Medes_ and _Persians_; so that this strange Voyage to _Assareth_, which must have happen’d long before St. _Hierom_’s time, may be Recorded amongst the other Legends of the Rabbies, concerning their _Behemoth_ and _Leviathan_, who lock’d up the Souls of those that sleighted their Laws, in Caves under ground, as _Esdras_.” [Sidenote: Antient condition of the _Persians_.] [Sidenote: _Melchior Soiterus de Reb. Turc._] And how little opportunity the _Israelites_ had to remove since his time, may appear by the horrible Destruction that was made for several Ages together in _Persia_ and _Media_; for although the _Persians_ became Masters again of the Realm, Conquer’d by _Alexander_ the Great, whilst _Alexander_’s Successors invaded one another, yet they were continually in War, either against the _Romans_, or else the _Indians_, and other Eastern People; nay, the _Saracens_ wrested the Scepter out of their hand, though but for a small time; for soon after, breaking out into Factions amongst themselves, _Muchumet Subictigenes_, _Imbrael_’s Son, establish’d his Throne on their Ruines, and incourag’d by such success, Arm’d himself against the _Indians_, and made use of the _Turks_ assistance, with which he subdu’d the _Babylonian Arabians_: After which, the _Turks_, not without great slaughter see the _Persian_ Crown on their Head, which, immediately totter’d by bloudy Commotions; for _Tangrolipix_ being King of _Persia_, clashing with his Brother _Cutlumuses_, made _Persia_ swim in the Blood of a Civil-War, till at last _Zengis Chan_ brought from _Tartary_ so great an Army, _Anno 1200._ that none durst stay to make opposition; for the _Turks_ forsook _Persia_ after a Conquest of six Ages, and made their own way for new Quarters into _Carmania_, _Phrygia_, and _Bithynia_, whence they made such incursions on the _Greek_ Empire, that at last they became sole Masters thereof. Who cannot but easily judge by this, how little opportunity the ten Tribes had, to be assembled together from remote Countreys, and to go long Journeys through untrack’d ways, and full of Enemies, to travel to _America_? [Sidenote: _Mora_’s opinion concerning the _Americans_ Extract.] _Immanuel de Moraes_, who had gotten peculiar knowledge of the _Americans_ by his long Conversation with them, judgeth that they are not deriv’d from one People, but from the _Carthaginians_ and _Jews_, and that at several times, and places, they Landed in this New World; for the _Carthaginians_ Sailing thither, found the Soyl so fertile, that many forsook their Native Countrey to dwell there: Whereupon, it was forbidden upon pain of Death, to send no more thither, lest if _Carthage_ should be invaded by a foraign Enemy, it should want People for a Home-defence: From this occasion it happen’d, that those that were already Transported, became rude, and of a Salvage Disposition, and spreading their Families, planted the desolate Countreys in a ranging manner, without acknowledging any Supreme Head or Governor. Thus being scatter’d up and down, every one invented to himself a new Language, which should neither agree with the _Carthaginians_, or any other: But this Opinion is before at large contradicted. [Sidenote: Customs and Constitutions of the _Brasilians_ are several.] Moreover, _Moraes_ endeavors to shew, that the _Brasilians_ are of a _Hebrew_ Extract, because that according to the example of the _Jews_, they might not Marry, but in their own Tribes; they also call their Unkles, Fathers, and their Aunts, Mothers; both mourn for the Dead a Moneth together, and wear long Garments down to their Ankles. But these Arguments seem to us of small consequence, for indeed the _Brasilians_ differ in their Marriages from the _Jews_, for they not onely Marry in their own Tribes, but frequently commix with their Sisters, and Daughters, or other their nearest Relations. Moreover, the _Jews_ call’d them Fathers, from whose Loyns they sprang many Ages before, as well as their Unkles, which the _Americans_ do not. The Mourning for the Dead hath been an old Custom, and is not observ’d by many People, but the time of a Moneth was not setled amongst them, but was observ’d after a more unusual manner, seventy days, as in the Fields of _Moab_ for _Moses_, and elsewhere for the Patriarch _Jacob_. Lastly, all people know, that the _Romans_ and _Persians_ girt themselves about with long Clothes. Besides, the _Jews_ were strictly bound to observe Circumcision, without which they were not accounted _Jews_, which the _Brasilians_ use not, as neither their Language or Letters. How is it possible, that in _America_ they should at once have forgotten their Extract, Laws, Circumcision, Language, and other Ceremonies, when the rest of them observ’d nothing more strictly in all parts of the Earth? [Sidenote: _Grotius_ is of opinion that the _Americans_ belong’d to _Norway_.] The Learned _Hugo Grotius_, in his Enquiry after the original of the _Americans_, brings them with many Circumstances to belong to _Panama_, situate opposite to the Northern Parts of _Norway_, because something of their Languages agrees, and the Way thither easie and nearest to be found: for first they travell’d from _Norway_ to _Ysland_, over which the _Norwegians_ Rul’d above a thousand years since; so from _Ysland_ through _Friezland_ to _Groenland_, and from thence to _Estotiland_, being a part of the Main Continent of _America_. [Sidenote: This Opinion is largely contradicted.] From _Friezland_ some Fishers went thither (as he says) two Centuries before the _Spaniards_ touch’d that Shore; which _John de Laet_ contradicts. And indeed what Reasons can be given, Why the _Americans_ of the _Straights_, between _Panama_ and _Nombre de Dios_, lying Northerly, should have another original than those that live to the South, seeing the same _Straights_ are neither divided by Mountains nor Rivers; and the _Spaniards_ found no alteration in the Customs and Languages betwixt them that liv’d above or below these _Straights_. And who will believe that _Norway_, which was but indifferently peopled, could afford such numerous Colonies as could plant the Northern _America_, which far exceeds the South, and chiefly, when the great Islands that lie near the East and West, are added to it? Moreover it is certain, (if the Yslander _Angrim Jonas_ is to be credited) that some Families fled out of _Norway_ from their enraged King to _Ysland_ in the Year 874. which at that time was but meanly inhabited. [Sidenote: _Isaac Pontanus de Reb. Danicis._] Forty years before, _Lewis_ the Just put the _Yslanders_ under the protection of Pope _Gregory_ the fourth, who gave the Government of the _Ysland_ Church to _Ansgar_ Archbishop of _Hamburgh_. But how comes it that there is not the least spark of _Christianity_ found amongst the Northern _Americans_, if they are deriv’d from the _Ysland Christians_? and why did the _Yslanders_ remove to colder Countreys than _Groenland_ and _Friezland_, or their own native Soil, and for the most part not inhabited? Concerning _Groenland_ and _Friezland_, it is known by our _English_ Navigators, that they are joyn’d together, and both to the Northern _America_; but not without vast Bays and Inlets, which betwixt _Groenland_ and _America_ are obstructed with floating Castles of Ice; so that the Passage is very dangerous. And full as troublesom, if not altogether impossible, would the Journey be by Land, because the Earth lies so thick cover’d with Ice and Snow, especially the Valleys, that no Traveller is able to get through. [Sidenote: The Voyage of two _Zeno_’s.] [Sidenote: _Relatio Marc. Zenonis._] Moreover, that which _Grotius_ says farther of the Fishers which first discover’d _Estotiland_, is grounded on the Relation of the _Venetian_ Knights, _Nicholas_ and _Marcus Zeno_, two Brothers. _Anno 1380._ _Nicholas Zeno_ suffer’d Shipwrack on the _Friezland_ Coast; _Marcus_ inform’d thereof, steer’d his Course thither; fourteen years they spent before they came to _Estotiland_: at last they return’d again to _Friezland_, where _Nicholas_ died: But _Marcus_ returning home publish’d his Journal, wherein he relates, That _Estotiland_ is above a thousand Leagues distant from _Friezland_, and was discover’d by _Friezland_ Fisher-men that were driven thither by Storm. But he hath set down many things that have little resemblance of truth, according to what is since found by credible Navigators; and therefore we cannot depend on _Zeno_’s Discovery. [Sidenote: The _American_ Tongue is nothing like the _Norwegian_.] _John de Laet_ accounts it a great mistake in _Grotius_, that as a testimony of the _Americans_ original out of _Norway_, he compares their Languages. He reckons up some Places to be Northward of _Panama_, which end their words with the syllable _Lan_ instead of _Land_, because the _Spaniards_ have left out the Letter D at the end thereof. It is certain, that in the Northern _America_ lie _Cimatlan_, _Coatlan_, _Guescolan_, _Artlan_, _Quaxutatlan_, _Icatlan_, _Tapatlan_, _Cinacatlan_, _Tenuchitlan_, _Comitlan_, _Metzitlan_, _Guatitlan_, _Necotitlan_, _Curcatatlan_. Besides, that most of these Names are not of Countreys, but of Towns and Villages, and therefore no ways fitting to have the termination of _Land_: and it is well known that many _American_ words end with _Lan_, which signifie nothing less than Land: for the _Mexicans_ say _Puertatitlan_, which signifies _At the Gate below_; _Ochachitlantzitlan_, _Yet lower_; _Tenoxtitlan_, (this City is also call’d from her Founder _Mexis_, _Mexico_) that is, _Rests on a Rock_. Moreover, it may not without reason seem strange to any, that the Northern _Americans_ have remembred but three Cities out of all the _Teutonick_ Tongue, _viz._ _Lan_ in stead _Land_. [Sidenote: _Groenland_ when discovered.] [Sidenote: _Serm. 3. Antiq. Danic._] Concerning _Groenland_, through which the _Norwegians_ are thought to have travell’d to _America_, _Lysander_ witnesseth, That it was accidentally discover’d by one _Eric Rauder_, _Anno 987_, and planted thirteen years after. _Olaus_, King of _Norway_, plac’d two Bishops over the new Inhabitants, as Substitutes to the Archbishop of _Dronthen_. For four Ages they Sail’d frequently to _Groenland_; but since their King was impoverish’d by War, they left off that Trade. We find not in any Author, that the _Norwegians_ which liv’d along the Sea-shore, ever went to seek a Way over the inaccessible Snowy Mountains of _Groenland_, to this our _New World_. Besides, _Grotius_ stands for the _Norwegians_ as Planters, upon testimony of the _Mexicans_ themselves, who told the _Spaniards_, That their Ancestors which planted there came from the _North_, first setling themselves on _Estotiland_, where to this day there are not improbable proofs by several remarks, that they were a _Norwegian_ Colony. [Sidenote: The opinion concerning the City _Norumbega_ in _America_.] In the _American_ City _Norumbega_, live a People that speak the same Language, and observe the same Customs with the _Mexicans_. In this by-Corner are found also some _Alavards_, or _Longobards_, or _Lombards_, as they say. Now the _Spaniards_ call that _New Mexico_ because last discover’d, though indeed the old, cramm’d with People eight hundred years since: for the _Mexicans_ of _New Mexico_ do not lie so far Northerly, as to the North-west: for this _Mexico_ lies in sight of _California_, which is believ’d to border on _Tartary_, or at least separated from it by a narrow Channel. But _Norumbega_ (if ever such a Place was) must, according to the _West-Indian_ Records, have been situate where a part of _New France_ lies, now planted by the _English_: between which and _New Mexico_ lies an almost unmeasurable vast Tract of Land. Mean while here is not the least sign of this City _Norumbega_ to be found: neither do the Inhabitants dwell in Cities, but live in Tents, or moveable Villages, which change their Names as oft as their Governors. Moreover, the _Norwegians_ could not get to this _Norumbega_ by Land through _Ysland_ and _Groenland_ to _Estotiland_, because of the vast Bays, and great _Midland-Sea_, discover’d by the _English_ in their North-western Discoveries; so that leaving _Estotiland_, it was altogether impossible for them to come to _Norumbega_. [Sidenote: _Chichimecen._] Hereto may be added what the _Mexicans_ say of themselves, who acknowledge, That travelling from the _North_, they did not find an un-inhabited Countrey before them, but were forc’d to make their Way by a long and bloody War with the _Chichimecen_, a salvage People, that knew neither Laws or Religion. The People also dwelling opposite to _California_, differ from the Customs of the _Mexicans_, being divided into several People of contrary Constitutions, and as different Languages. [Sidenote: Customs and Constitutions of the _Mexicans_.] _Grotius_ scrues up his Arguments from the likeness of the _American_ Speech and Customs with the _Norwegian_: for (says he) there is little difference between _Pagod_ and _by-God_, or _like God_; _Guaira_ and _Waeijer_, that is, _A Fan_; _Ilama_ and _Lam_, in _English_, _Lamb_; _Peko_ and _Beke_, a _Brook_ or _Rivulet_. Both Customs and Constitutions have also great resemblance. The _Mexicans_ relate, that their Predecessors onely follow’d Hunting; that they divided and reckon’d the Time, not by Days, but by Nights, and wash’d their Children as soon as they were born in cold Water. [Illustration] They are so much inclin’d to Gaming, that they venture their Liberty at it. Every one is satisfi’d with one Wife, except some of the Nobility, which oftentimes have more. They throw up high Banks in several places to damm out the Sea; believe the Immortality of the Soul; every one eats at a peculiar Table; most of them go naked, onely cover their _Pudenda_ with a Cloth; some Sacrifice and eat Mans-flesh: all which, according to _Tacitus_, _Pliny_, _Lucan_, and other _Roman_ Writers, was observ’d by the antient _Germans_; from whom those that inhabit between the _Norwegian_ Mountains were extracted. These Allegations, to make the _Norwegians_ to be the Parents of the Northern _Americans_, _John de Laet_ thus contradicts: “It no ways follows that one People take original from the other, because here and there are several words found, that have the same signification and found in divers Countreys; much less when they must either add, change, or diminish several Letters. Moreover, there is no small mistake in the compar’d words: for _Pagod_ is not us’d all over _America_; the _East-Indians_ about the River _Indus_, call their Idol-Temples _Pagod_, or _Pagode_, the word _Guaira_ is no where us’d in _America_, but by the _Peruvians_, and with them not signifying a _Fan_, but a little _Oven_; neither is _Ilama_ a _Lamb_, (for before the coming of the _Spaniards_ thither, neither Sheep nor Lambs were ever seen in _Peru_) but a Wool-bearing Beast, thus describ’d by _Joseph de Acosta_: [Sidenote: A description of the strange Beast _Ilama_ in _Peru_.] “_Ilama_ (says he) a four-footed Creature, furnishes its Master with Meat and Clothing, and supplies the office of a Beast for Burthens, and at no charge for Hay nor Provender, well satisfi’d with what he finds in the Ways or Mountains. But the _Ilama_’s are of two sorts, either woolly, or shorthair’d: the first go by the Name _Pacos_, the other _Moromoro_, being not much less than a Calf, with a long Neck like a Camel, but of several colours; for some are white, some black, and others speckled, having an odd Look, especially when they are ty’d, and stand still without any motion, staring with goggle-eyes on their Owners: Sometimes in a moody humor, upon a sudden taking a freak, they run up to the top of almost inaccessible Mountains, where both the frantick Beast and his Burthen are lost. The _Pacos_ sometimes likewise takes sudden Pets, and fustian Fits, often doing the forward _Supersalt_, tumbling over and over with their Goods, and will not be rais’d, their moodiness continuing, with beating, nay though they cut them to pieces: but the best way is to sit down by them, and wait some hours till their humor being spent they rise again of their own accords. These Beasts are much inclin’d to a Disease call’d _Carashe_ or the _Mange_, of which they generally die: and because the Disease is very catching, they straight bury the infected alive, so the better to preserve the rest.” _Grotius_ also mistakes, when he compares the _Mexican Peke_ with the _Dutch Beke_; for though many _Mexican_ Places, Mountains, and Rivers, terminate in _Peke_, yet it signifies not a _Brook_ or _Rivulet_, for that they call _Atlauhtli_. [Sidenote: _De Orig. Gentium Americ._] _John de Laet_ tells also, That with great diligence he found a _Mexican_ Dictionary, Printed by the _Spaniards_ in _Mexico_, to find if there were any words in it which agreed with any of those _European_ Languages that he understood, but found not one. It is the same case with the Customs and Constitutions between the _Norwegians_ and Northern _Americans_: for what concerns Hunting, how many People have formerly liv’d by it? The antient _Germans_, and to this day the _Tartars_ make it their whole business, excelling in that Art all other Nations. Besides, that the more serious sort of the _Mexicans_ many Ages since scorn’d to derive themselves from a Hunting Ancestry, but affirm that they found the _Chichimecen_ in those Countreys, who were great _Venators_. [Sidenote: Customs of the _Americans._] [Sidenote: Their Clothing.] The accounting of Time by the Nights, extracted from the _Hebrews_, is observ’d by divers Eastern People: and although the _Germans_ dipt and wash’d their children in cold Rivers, or Brooks, so soon as they were born, yet the _Mexicans_ never did it, but the Mother lays the Child on the fourth day after its Birth, in an open place of the House, in the middle whereof stands a Pot full of Water cover’d with Broom, in which they wash the Infant. Neither are the _Americans_ so much addicted to the Vice of Gaming as other Nations, so that _Grotius_ taxeth them too severely as to that point: as on the contrary, he too much clears them of Polygamy, whereas the _Mexicans_ Marry as many Wives as they please, or are able to maintain. Father _Martyn Perez_ relates the same of the _Cinaloans_, and other _Americans_; as also _Quarterius_ of the Natives in _Nova Francia_, which lie nearest to _Norway_. And what need the _Americans_ have the _Germans_ their Teachers, to make Dams and Banks against Floods, since Nature and Necessity it self instructs it? and where are any People so ignorant, as to ascribe the same event to Men and Beasts after death? ’Tis true, their manner of eating in _America_ is several, because the People do not much converse together: but they did not go naked; for the _Spaniards_ found them not onely neatly Habited, but had a proper Name for every thing they wore. The _Virginians_ us’d long Shirts; the _Floridans_ Skins of wild Beasts; and towards the North they cover’d themselves from Head to Foot in hairy and undress’d Hydes. The sacrificing of Men was in former Ages spreading far and near over the World, and how far it was practis’d here, hath been already declar’d at large. Lastly, all the _Americans_ are not guilty of eating of Man’s-flesh, but that salvageness is confin’d to the Southern _America_. Thus much we have said, to prove that the _Norwegians_ had no hand in planting the Northern _America_, we shall now proceed to enquire who planted the Southern Parts, from the _Straights_ between _Panama_ and _Nombre de Dios_, to the _Straights_ of _Magellan_. The _Peruvians_, possessing a large Tract of Land along the Coast of the _South-Sea_, _Grotius_ would thus derive from _China_: [Sidenote: Relation of _Mancocapacus_.] “The _Peruvians_, being of a subtile Wit, and quick of Apprehension, argue sufficiently that they are not extracted from the more Northern _Americans_, but rather from the _Chineses_, which the several Wrecks of _Chinese_ Ships found on these Coasts sufficiently evidence: and no wonder, if curiosity or accident brought the _Chineses_ expert Navigators to this Countrey, separated onely by one Sea from them. To this we may add their Rites of Religion; for both worship the Sun, and call their King the Son of the Sun; they write no Letters but make Characters downwards. _Mancocapacus_ was a _Chinese_ of strange Policy; who being inform’d that his Countrey-men inhabited fruitful Countreys on the other side of the _South-Sea_, but without Laws or Government, Sail’d over thither, and gather’d the scatter’d Multitudes in a Body, and establish’d an hereditary Kingdom after the _Chinese_ manner, to him and his Successors.” [Sidenote: The _Americans_ are not extracted from _China_.] To which _John de Laet_ answers thus: “Though the _Peruvians_ exceed the other _Americans_ in Policy, and at the arrival of the _Spaniards_ liv’d in a handsom Order of Government, yet they can no ways be compar’d to the sharp-witted, and noble-spirited _Chineses_; nay, there are in no Place of _Peru_ found such Artificers as those of _China_, that bear the praise of all the World; no where such manner of Buildings or Cities, nor the least likeness of the _Chinese_ Curiosities. As concerning the Wrecks found in _Peru_, I find no credible Author that gives an account thereof: for certainly the _Chineses_ could much easier, and a nearer way have come through the _Atlantick Sea_ to the Coasts of _America_, lying to the East of _Peru_, than steer along the vast, and much greater _South Sea_, and endure the horrible Storms and vast Waves, which the _European_ Ships are scarce able to endure, much less the _Chinese_ Vessels, which are not so good. The _Spaniards_ which Sail yearly from _Acupulco_ to the _Philippines_ are sensible of the great danger which they endure, chiefly by the great gusts of Wind near _California_. Besides, the _Peruvians_ before the arrival of the _Spaniards_, were utterly ignorant of great Ships, and the use of Sails. How could they at once have forgotten that Art, which they brought with them thither, Moreover, it is easier to Sail from _Peru_ to _China_, than from _China_ to _Peru_, because the Winds under the Equinoctial Line commonly blow Easterly. And it is the greater wonder, that the _Chinese_ Jonks accidentally by Storm should be driven to _Peru_, because they were never stor’d with Provisions but for a short Voyage, whereas this ask’d nine Moneths. But if any one will suppose, that they purposely directed their Course thither, how came the _Chineses_ to Sail just to _Peru_, and not to _New Spain_, which is much closer to _China_? why were there no Merchandises of the _Chineses_ found in _Peru_, since they went thither for Trade? how came they to neglect that Navigation they had once found? Nor is their Sun-worship (which was formerly practis’d in most Parts of the World) of any validity to derive them from _China_? But the contrary is most apparent, for the _Peruvians_ worship for their chief God, _Viracocha_, that is, _God Almighty_, or _The Creator of all things_. “The _Chineses_, if Confutius an eye-witness may be credited, are divided into three Sects of Religion: The first follow the Learn’d _Trigantius_, and acknowledge a King of the Heavens, which must onely be serv’d as the _Chineses_ sole Governor; to which purpose, two Temples are built in the Royal Cities _Nankin_ and _Pekin_, one Consecrate to Heaven, and the other to the Earth. The second Sect hath the name of _Sciequia_, and serve the Idol _Omyto_. The third nam’d _Lanzu_, imploy themselves in Magick and Exorcisms, Conjuring up, and laying Evil-Spirits, whose horrid representations, when they have stuck upon the Walls, they make an artificial and dreadful noise, as if Hell were broke loose, and the House full of Devils; sometimes also force the Evil-Spirits to enter into Images, from whence they receive no impertinent answers to their questions: Therefore, who will compare this Superstition of the _Peruvians_ worshipping of the Sun, to the _Chinese_ Religion, which do no such things? [Sidenote: Embassy to the _Cham_, l. 2. c. 2.] “The _Peruvians_ call’d their King, _A Lord of the Realm_, and not _The Son of the Sun_, as in _China_: Though the _Mexicans_ otherwise worship the Sun, and in their manner of adulation, styl’d _Hernando Cortez_, their Conqueror, _Son of the Sun_: As to what concerns the manner of writing, it is very well known, that the _Chineses_ words are all Monosyllables, so that they have as many Letters as Words, which they joyn so together, that they reckon eighty thousand, but with ten thousand they are able to express themselves in most matters. These Characters are contain’d in their _Halpien_ or Dictionary. The antient _Chineses_ us’d seventeen several sorts of Characters in their writing, some consisting of Serpents, that by several Wreathes and contortious Windings, signify’d several things; others, of all sorts of agrestick Tools belonging to Husbandry; some Characters of the Feathers of the Bird _Fum-hoar_; others of Oysters and Worms, or of Roots, of Herbs, or Birds Claws, or of Turtles, or of Herbs and Birds Feathers mingled, or of Planets, and such like; but what manner of Writing or Hieroglyphick of theirs resembles those, who by their own testimony know neither Pen, Paper, Ink, nor any manner of Writing, but reckon the antiquity of time by strung Beads, which was observ’d many ages since among several Nations.” [Sidenote: Original of the _Americans_ very obscure.] [Sidenote: What we may believe concerning them.] [Sidenote: The _Americans_ are derived from several people.] Hitherto we have discover’d the several Opinions concerning the Original of the _Americans_, or first Plantation of _America_, from all which, having receiv’d no clear or demonstrative satisfaction, we must open our way to a further scrutiny: But first, we must needs confess, that contradiction is not difficult; but it is something of Work, when we have beaten down a well-fortifi’d Opinion, to set up somewhat in stead thereof, to stand a permanent and undeniable truth, which will be the harder, in regard the Inhabitants of this new World have no old Chronologies concerning their Antiquities, and first settling there; yet if we cannot go so far absolutely to assert, yet some probabilities, grounded (as we suppose) upon better reasons, may give more satisfaction; for none will deny, but that the Generations of Mankind being strangely multiply’d after the Flood, they then living five times our Ages, and Wars not beginning till the known part of the Earth was over-stock’d, justling for Territories, and some thrust quite out, at last found _America_; which spreading it self to a vast extent, and now found almost every where well inhabited, may be guess’d, that it was not onely Planted from the first, but several times replenish’d since by various Nations; Why may not several Planters, and at several times make room for their Colonies, incroaching one upon another, either by force or compact; as the _French_ themselves upon the _Gauls_, the _Normans_ upon them, the _Goths_ among the _Spaniards_, and the _Saxons_ among the _Brittains_, and the _Normans_ again upon them? Several people may easily Sail over thither, the _Azores_ or the _Canary_ Isles lye so, that they are ready (as if design’d) for Transportation to _America_; from whence _Acosta_ made a Voyage in fifteen days. Also _Pliny_ gives us an account, that these Islands lay uninhabited in his time; yet is it well known, that after _Pliny_’s time, Ruins of Buildings were found there, signifying, they had been formerly Planted; and why might not those ancient Inhabitants Sail thence to the neighboring _America_? [Sidenote: _Marian. de Reb. Hisp._ l. 1. c. 18.] _Tercera_ lying half way between _Spain_ and _America_, was frequented by Navigators before the Birth of our Savior; and it seems as easie to Sail from thence to _America_, as from the Main Land of _Spain_ thither: Add this, that necessity forc’d the _Spaniards_ to look about them from other Countreys, for since they lost their Victorious Champion _Baucius Gapetus_, they were every where beaten, being tired out by the _Phenician_ Forces, and that oppression over, suffer’d as much under the _Roman_ Yoke: Wherefore it seems not strange, if a considerable number remov’d from thence, that they might live some where else in quiet; for which purpose they wanted no conveniencies to Rig and set forth stout and sufficient Vessels, able to live in those Seas, having had long experience from the _Phenician_ Voyagers, whose Fleets Sail’d daily to and again in several Expeditions, from _Cadiz_ and _Gibraltar_ towards these Western Countreys: Nay, _Hanno_ himself their first Navigator that way, who gives an account of the _Gorgons_, or the Isles of _Cape Verd_, a good part of the way to _America_. [Sidenote: _English_ famous Sea-men.] [Sidenote: _Barat-anac_, or, _Tinland_, the _Phenician_ name, and _Brittania_ the _Greek_ name of _Brittain_.] And though _Brittain_, _Ireland_, and the _Brittish Orcades_ lay further from _America_, yet something may be said particularly to prove, That many Ages since, Expeditions had been made from thence to the New World; and that the Inhabitants of these our Isles, in former Ages, were peculiarly famous for their skill in Navigation; insomuch, that the _Cretans_ and _Phenicians_ emulous of their skill, and jealous of their danger, made several Attacques and Invasions upon these Isles, which is the more probable, many remarks of the _Phenician_ and _Greek_ Language, remaining in the denominations of the Countrey: Of which, take first this account: [Sidenote: Old Voyage of _Madok_ to _America_; for which see _Vet. Hist. Brit._] _Anno 1170._ When _Owen Guyneth_, Prince of _Wales_, having Raign’d long and happily in his setled Dominions, dying, left several Sons, who quarrelling, their elder Brother, as not contented with their shares of the Principality, nor to be under him, having gotten no mean Interests and Claims to the whole by their struglings, so weakned one another, that they open’d a way to the loosing of all. [Sidenote: _David Powel in Historia Cambriæ._] Amongst these Brothers, _Madok_, a Prince of a milder disposition, weary of such unnatural Dissentions, threw up his share, better contented to seek new Fortunes abroad; whereupon there were many soon perswaded to venture their lives with him, where ever he would please to Transport: So Rigging a small Fleet, he Sail’d Westward, far beyond _Ireland_, where at last he discover’d an unknown and un-inhabited Countrey, but wondrous pleasant, the Air being temperate, and the Soyl most fertile: Glad of this good success (as the Story says) he returning, spreading the Fame of this his New-Found-Land, which they might exchange for a barren Soyl, hatter’d and harass’d with an endless Civil-War. No small number flock’d to these Summons, as a most acceptable Undertaking; so that soon after he was able to send forth ten good Ships, Freighted only with Men, Women, and Children, and all other Materials fit for a new Plantation; which not long after Landed in _Acuzamil_, a Countrey in the North of _America_, as _Francis Lopez de Gomara_ believes, because there he onely found some remaining Tracks of Christianity, a People that worshipp’d the Cross, but knew no reason why or wherefore they ador’d that sign of our Redemption. Now, some will say, that this Worship of the Cross is no argument to prove, that the _Brittish_ Christians first Planted in the North of _America_; but what will not time and change of place do, where Transplanted People keep no Records, so they forget not onely Religion, Laws, and Customs, but who they were, and from whence they came, Oblivion first mutilating, and at last swallowing up all; of which, take this one late president. [Sidenote: Strange occasion of _De la Roche_.] _Anno 1598._ The Duke _De La Roche_ obtain’d leave of the _French_ King, to transport a Colony of Volunteers to _New France_; in his way he Landed fifty Men on the Island _De Sable_, to rest his Passengers, and that he might the better, and with more ease explore the Countrey, and when resolv’d where to settle, then to fetch them off; who accordingly, as design’d, soon after, returning thither, was met with so violent a Storm, that not being able to Weather the Isle of _Sable_, where he left his People, he lost his whole Expedition, and was driven back to a _French_ Harbor, where no sooner arriv’d, he was so highly charg’d, that he was cast into Prison, when those he had left neglected upon the Isle, were not once so much as thought of; in this interim, they never expecting to hear more of their Captain, liv’d in a wild and miserable condition, feeding upon Fish, and sometimes wild Swine, without Bread, Drink, or Salt. When the Baron of _Leri_ went with Letters Patents, to be Governor of _Nova Francia_, and by stress of Weather in his Voyage, was forc’d to put in at _Sable_, where he found the remainder of _La Roches_ People, who being from fifty reduced to twelve, having clad themselves in Sea-Wolves Skins, they had not onely lost their former _French_ Civilities, but forgot in a manner their Religion, much of their Language, and what they were, being as if Metamorphos’d into bestial Salvages. [Sidenote: If some did not come accidentally to _America_.] And although we have already controverted the improbability of Peopling _America_, either by accident of Storm, or set purpose; yet it may be possible that so it might happen, for as the several vertues of Plants, Herbs, Precious-Stones, and Minerals, though strangely occult, and so altogether unknown, that what could never be found by Art, meer chance hath brought to light, and their wondrous qualities, some casual accident hath made apparent; so strange and remote Countreys never to be found in our Charts, or Maps, nor Registred in any Story, Seamen bound to their intended Harbors, have stumbled on by chance, either Hood-wink’d by blind Mists, or forc’d upon by pertinatious Weather; of which _America_ may be her own witness, for how was _Columbus_ stirr’d up, but by incitations of the Journals of a Sea-Captain, dying in his House, driven on the _American_ Islands by foul Weather. [Sidenote: _America_ was Peopled presently after the Flood.] [Sidenote: Giants in _America_.] [Sidenote: _Conjurati fratres_, _Virg. Georg._] [Sidenote: The Flood acknowledg’d there.] Although from the foremention’d places, and after the same manner, _America_ might be furnish’d with Inhabitants; so it also gives us a more certain assurance, that the Planting of _America_ was not onely soon after the Flood, but that they came also thither by Land: And how strangely would it be against the Majesty and Wisdom of Divine Providence, to leave half the Universal Globe, a World fully supply’d with all sorts of Creatures, fit for Food and Service, Plants, Herbs, and the richest Minerals, like a House new built, and well furnish’d, without a Master or any Inhabitant, _viz._ Man, who being of Celestial Extract, should be able to acknowledge and glorifie the Creator, by admiring the Creature in his great Works: Besides, the confus’d Notions and Fables of Giants, Perpetrators of all manner of Crimes, and wallowing in all kind of sensual Debaucheries, are always remembred among the Antiquities of the _Americans_, and that they had some slender hints of antient Truth, not onely of the Giants before the Flood, but of those that soon after the rank fatness of the Earth, produc’d and fed to that pitch of Arrogance, that the covenanting Brethren defi’d God, fortifying themselves to fight him by the advantage of that their long congested Pile, _Babel_, which in a short time was transverted by the _Heathen_ Poets into their _Gigantomachia_, heaping Hills on Hills, like the _American_ Traditions: From which we may conjecture, that they came thither in the time of _Noah_; for why may not any believe, when _Noah_ liv’d three hundred years after he Landed on Mount _Ararat_, that he took care to People the World? And who will make him ignorant of this New World, who living five hundred years before, might not improbably by his own industry and the help of the former long-liv’d _Patriarchs_, been well able to make a general Survey of the Old; and he could better furnish _America_, it being nearer Mount _Ararat_, than supply _Italy_, _Spain_, _Germany_, or any Northern Territories in _Europe_, so that _America_ might be known to the first people after the Flood, nay, inhabited by them, though since that, the knowledge was lost. _Pliny_ complaining of the Supine negligence, and stupendious sloth which reign’d then and long before as he had observ’d, among all people, and in every place, who were so far from making inquiry after discoveries of Lands for new Plantations, that they lost the old, when they had begun to settle, though under the greatest serenity of Peace; The Sea by that means lying open beyond what any juncture of former times could be proud of. [Sidenote: _Canary Islands_, by whom discover’d.] [Sidenote: _Hesperian_ Gardens, what they signifie.] Yet the _Fortunate_, or _Canary_ Islands were in the first ages after _Noah_, frequented with Vessels, which in later times were altogether neglected, till _Guillaum Betancourt_, a Gentleman of _Picardye_, brought them again to be taken notice of by a fresh Trade. The Fable of the _Hesperian_ Gardens, and the Dragon that kept the Golden Fruit, with constant Vigils, is nothing but an allusion to the Sea, which with Serpentine Embraces, not onely secur’d these scatter’d Isles, but swallow’d up several Adventurers that too hardy made their unhappy approaches for discovery. Another Allegation for the Planting of _America_ by Land, both whose sides are wash’d on the East and West, by the South and Atlantick Ocean, may be thus probably made out: The Atlantick rowls over with almost Fathomless Waters, three thousand Leagues of Ground; the South-Sea not much less, which well may be, being indeed but one continu’d Sea, encompassing, till meeting there, the Universal Ball; whence springs a more likelyhood, that _America_ might be Planted from the Southern parts, from the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, and _Le-Mayr_. [Sidenote: _Relatio de Terra Australe._] [Sidenote: The Description of the unknown South.] _Peter Fernandes de Quir_ relates, That he and a Commander, _Lodowick Paes le Torres_ saw a part of the South Countrey, and in it innumerable Inhabitants, _Whites_, _Blacks_, _Sallows_, with long, black, curl’d, Woolly, and yellow Hair. They know no Walls or Fortresses for Defence, Laws or Kings, but are divided into Tribes: They use indeed Bows, Arrows, Clubs, and a kind of Spears: Their Houses are cover’d with Palm-Tree-Leaves; their Housholdstuff consists onely of a few Earthen Pots, and such Trinkets; yet they have some little skill in Weaving, and though they go naked, pride themselves in Neck-Laces and Bracelets, made of Mother of Pearl: But these for their Complexions and Constitution of Body, Customs, and manners, are rather deriv’d from the _Americans_, than they from them, and therefore we must seek for their Original from the North; from which are but two ways, one from _Ysland_ and _Groenland_, which _Grotius_ endeavors to prove, but contradicted; the other out of _Tartary_, which certainly was the first Nursery, from whence the _Americans_ were Transplanted. [Sidenote: Description of _Tartary_.] _Tartary_ or _Tattary_, so call’d from the River _Tatter_, which runs thorow the Countrey _Mongul_ into the Northern Ocean, covers a great part of the Terrestrial Globe; the lesser _Tartary_ makes out a considerable part of _Europe_; the greater is _Asia_. This great _Tartary_, which is a thousand Leagues long, and six hundred broad, reckons five chief Provinces, _viz._ the wild _Tartary_, inhabited by Herdsmen; _Sagatai_, of which the Metropolis is _Samarcand_, famous for the mighty _Tamerlane_; next _Turkestan_; then _Kitai_, which the great _Cham_ Commands; and lastly, _Old Tartary_, according to _Andreas Cæsariensis_, the habitation of _Gog_ and _Magog_. Now we must enquire from what _Tartars_ the _Americans_ are Extracted: [Sidenote: _Thrian_ l. 67.] [Sidenote: If the _Israelites_ were _Tartars_.] _Mornæus_, _Postellus_, _Genebrardus_, _Poterus_, and others are of opinion, That the _Tartars_, which about the year 1228. under the Command of _Zingis Cham_ overspread the Earth like a deluge, were the Successors of the ten Tribes of _Israel_, which were carry’d into captivity to _Assyria_ by _Salmanazar_. The name _Tartary_, or rather _Tattaria_, seems to be some testimony thereof, because it signifies in the _Syrian_ or _Hebrew_ Tongue, _Remnants_ or _Remainders_, as seemingly, because these _Tartarians_ were remainders of the foremention’d Tribes; nay, the Northern _Tartary_ Herdsmen preserve to this day the Names _Dan_, _Zabulon_, and _Naphthali_: Wherefore we need not to admire, why so many _Jews_ are found in _Russia_, _Sarmatia_, and _Liefland_; nay, the nearer to _Tartary_, the more _Jews_ there are. Circumcision hath a long time been observ’d among them, before _Mahomet_ brought in his new Law; it seems, that _Mahomet_ order’d the Circumcision and other Laws, according to _Moses_, to be observ’d by the Northern people, because that in his time, they began to Rebel, that so they might the better be kept in awe by their new Religion. [Sidenote: _Pand. Hist. Turcica._] _Joannes Leonclavius_ relates, That in _Liefland_ near _Riga_, he heard the wilde Natives call’d _Letti_, not without great admiration, go crying along the High-Ways and Fields, with a doleful voice, _Jeru, Jeru, Masco lou_: It is believ’d that they mourn for _Jerusalem_ and _Damascus_; but by their long continuance in the vast Wildernesses, they have forgot their Religion and Laws, and what else might enable to tell us who they were. Several learned Authors question this removal of the _Israelites_ out of _Assyria_ to _Tartary_, though to our Judgement their Arguments are too weak, to take from them of the footing they have gotten there; yet nevertheless, the _Israelites_ are not to be taken for the Planters of _America_, for why else is not _Judaisme_ as well found in _America_ as in _Tartary_. But it is already shewn, that _America_ was inhabited long before the dispersion of the _Israelites_. [Sidenote: _Americans_ are not deriv’d from _Africa_ nor _Europe_.] [Sidenote: But _Asia_, and chiefly out of _Tartary_.] Now to shut up all, it is evident, that the first Planters of _America_ were not _Europeans_ from the dissimilitude of the People, both in their Complexions, Language and Persons; nor _Africans_, because that in all the far-spreading Countrey of _America_, not one _Negro_ is to be found, except a few near the River _Martha_, in the little Territory _Quarequa_, which must by Storm be drove thither from the _Guinny_ Coast: So that _Asia_, the Mother of all People, onely remains to be Implanter of our _America_, whose Western Coast, opposite to _Asia_, is more inhabited than to the East, where it respects _Europe_. [Sidenote: _Tartary_ is not parted from _America_ by the _Straights_ of _Anian_.] Moreover, _Armenia_, out of which, by _Noah_’s Progeny, the whole Earth was re-peopled, borders on _Scythia_, now call’d _Tartary_, and _Tartary_ faces _America_, separated onely by the _Straights_ of _Anian_; though some are of opinion, that out of the South into the Frozen Sea, there is no passage thorow these _Straights_, else (as we have already prov’d the contrary) how came all those Voracious and Poysonous Beasts into _America_, if it be clearly separated from _Asia_ by Sea? It deserves here to be related, what happen’d to _Henry Cornelison Schaep_, and _William Byleveld_, Sailing from _Batavia_ to discover the _Tartarick_ River _Polysange_, but were taken and carry’d Prisoners to the _Japan_ Court at _Jedo_; being Commanded there by Order of the Councel to give an account of a _Japan_ Map or Card, which was laid before them, and contain’d the Provinces of _Japan_, _Amboina_, the _Molucca_ Islands, _Manilha_, the _South-Sea_, _Borneo_, _Celebes_, _Malacca_, _Tartary_, _Formosa_, _Corea_, and the vast and Mountainous Countrey or Desart of _Jesso_, separated from _Japan_ by the _Straights_ of _Sungar_; though toward the North, it joyns to _Japan_ in the Province of _Ochio_; and beginning in forty seven degrees, run North-East towards _America_, but they could not possible find the _Straights_ of _Anian_; but on the contrary, the Promontory of _Tartary_, _viz._ the Province _Kataya_ or _Katui_ lay in the same parallel with the Northern _America_. [Sidenote: _Ennead_ 9. l. 6. Testimonies that the _Americans_ are _Tartars_.] Hereto may be added, that _Asia_ hath no Territory any where, which may more easily with numerous Colonies supply _America_ than this part of _Tartary_, as well for the vastness of the Countrey, to which no other can compare, as for the increasing of the Inhabitants: Who doth not admire, that according to _Michalon Lithouwer_, there is scarce a City in _Tartary_ that boasted less than a thousand Temples? and to see _Canguista_ first King of _Tartary_, about the Year 1200. in Arms; and his Successor _Hoccata_ following his Fathers bloody Footsteps, whilst he prepar’d his Sons with three vast Armies? The eldest Son, _Jachis_, March’d Westward with thirty thousand Horse; _Batho_ drew with as great an Army towards the North; _Tagladais_ being the youngest fell into the _Moores_ Countrey above _Egypt_. _Hoccata_ himself March’d victoriously into the North _America_, subdu’d great part of the _Persian_ Kingdom, and beat the _Turks_, led by the General _Goniata_ with a great Army, _Anno 1241._ as _Jacob Planensis_ and _Benedictus Sarmata_, two _Monks_, sent by Pope _Innocent_ to _Hoccata_, witness: The great number of the _Tartars_ or _Scythians_, may appear by the several people, spread far and near over _Tartary_; _Pliny_ reckons some of them, _viz._ _Auchetes_, _Neuri_, _Geloni_, _Thussagetes_, _Budini_, _Basilides_, _Agathyrsi_, _Nomades_, _Anthropophagi_, _Hyperborei_, _Arimphei_, _Cimmerij_, _Cicianthi_, _Georgi_, _Sacores_, and others: What number would the Inhabitants make up that live in _America_, in _Teneneuf_, _Virginia_, _Florida_, _New Spain_, _Guadalaiara_, _Guatemala_, _Terra firma_, _New Granada_, _Peru_, _Chili_, _Rio de la Plata_, _Brasil_, _Guaiana_, _New Andaluzai_? It will be worth our time, to compare the likeness between the _Scythians_ and Northern _Americans_; both of them are differenc’d with special Marks of a more than ordinary and natural distance between the Eyes, which much alters the whole Air of the Face, and the plumpness and swelling of their Cheeks summits above the Cheek-bone; most of these are of a middle stature, having downy Hair upon their Chin, like the Callow Feathers of an unfledg’d Bird. Lastly, as the _Tartars_, they differ amongst themselves in their Customs, yet in several things they agree one with another, according as they are govern’d by others, and yet other Princes, some powerful, and some weaker, according as every ones power be more or less. The Inhabitants of _Lucaja_ bear so great a respect, and stand so much in awe of their Governor, that if commanded to leap from a Rock, and break their Necks, they instantly obey. The same is observ’d by the _Tartars_; the first King _Canguista_ Commanded the seven Princes of his Realm to Murder their Sons with their own Hands, which they all readily perform’d. [Sidenote: Constitutions of the _Tartars_ and _Americans_ agree.] In _Popaina_ they live to this day like some _Tartars_, without Laws or Law-givers, who change their places by turns, from the great increase of the _Tartars_, the _Americans_ no ways differ. _Bartholomeus de las Casas_ writ to _Charles the Fifth_, That the _Spaniards_ in few years, onely on the Islands _Cuba_, _Hispaniola_, _Naco_, _Hondures_, in _Venezuela_ and _New Spain_, destroy’d above 2600000. Men, besides the slaughter that was made in _Peru_, _Brasil_, _Rio de la Plata_ and other places, which far exceed the foremention’d numbers. Polygamy is still in use, both among the _Tartars_ and _Americans_; both acknowledge the Immortality of the Soul, both like _Cannibals_, Eating and Sacrificing Mans flesh. How famous amongst the Antients was the Altar of _Diana_ in _Taurica Chersonesus_, where several Men were daily Sacrificed? How delicate, according to _Sabellicus_, did the _Tartars_ account their Dishes, Sauc’d and serv’d with humane Gore? [Sidenote: _Geogr._ l. 11 q. 7.] _Strabo_ relates, That the antient People account it an honourable Death to be chop’d in pieces, and their flesh serv’d up in Commons. Those that die by Age, a natural death, are despis’d like Malefactors, and as a punishment according to their Demerits, left in the open Fields, a prey to Birds and Beasts; some delight in that loathsome gorging themselves with Mens flesh, others on the contrary, not onely detest humane, but all manner of flesh: And just so the _Americans_ are distinguish’d, for although the _Caribes_, _Brasilians_, the Inhabitants of _New Spain_, _New Granada_, _St. Martha_, and others, Sacrifice and eat Men, yet as many abhor and detest that odious Diet and abominable Custom. _Giles Flesher_ Queen _Elisabeths_ Agent in _Muscow_ relates, That _Anno 1588._ _Kinach Morsey_, Grandson to the Governor of the _Chrim Tartars_, made his entrance there with a Retinue of three hundred Noblemen, and two Ladies, of which one was the Widow of his deceased Brother. The great Prince inform’d of their coming, sent him two slaughter’d Horses, whose sides and Hanches they feasted on, as we on Fallow Deer. [Sidenote: Devil-worship in _Americ_.] Most of the _Tartars_ use no manner of Letters or Characters; in the Voyage made into _Persia_, they first learn’d to make Letters; just so it is in _America_; their bemoaning of the dead ends in one Moneth, both by the _Tartars_ and _Americans_; with a Person of Quality, the _Tartars_ bury a live Servant; the same Custom is observ’d by some of the _Americans_; and so much do they agree in a salvage and rude life, that Merchandizing and Mechanicks are little regarded. _Ayson_ the _American_ acknowledges the _Tartars_ for a rude People in their Religion, Habits, and Dwellings, and yet in all these the _Americans_ differ but very little. Lastly, How common is it amongst them to worship the Devil? Along the River _Sagadahoc_, the Inhabitants are every new Moon miserably tormented by an Evil Spirit call’d _Tanto_. In the Temples in _Virginia_ remain yet the horrible Images of the Devils _Oka_ and _Menetto_. Not a House in _Mexico_, but hath a peculiar Chappel, set apart for this their suppos’d holy, but damnable Adoration of the Devil. Others in _Virginia_ believe, That there is a great and supreme Deity, which is Everlasting, and for ever. The _Tartars_ also are of the like perswasion. [Sidenote: _Tartarian_ Horses.] But this Opinion _Grotius_ hath laid a strong and dangerous Battery against, that _America_ could not be Peopled by the _Tartars_, because the _Americans_ before the _Spaniards_ coming thither, had never seen any Horses; whereas the _Tartars_ use no Beast more, either in Peace or War, nor can less want: For the _Tartarian_ Forces do not only consist in Horse; but the Wealth of this Countrey is reckon’d up in the numerous Breeds of Horses, and several Studs of Mares. Some of the Nobless keep a thousand Horse; none, though never so poor, but keep two or three; and Beggars there mounted crave Alms and Charity of the People. When they remove their Habitations, their Horses carry their Provisions and Tents: If Provisions grow short, they eat Mares Milk, high gusted with Garlick, which satisfies Hunger and Thirst; and the red Liquor which they tap warm from their Veins, serves them to help Digestion, and heighten their Humor, instead of the Blood of the Grape, our sweet Wine. The swiftest Rivers, though raging and precipitated with Land-floods, they dare adventure swimming their Horses over, hanging naked by their Manes, and guiding them by a slipp’d Rein whither they please: To their Tails they tie their Saddles, and other Necessaries, bound up in Rushes. When a Person of Quality prepares to cross any River, they tie two Horses Tail to Tail, and athwart both their Backs fasten a Mat pleited of Rushes, to sit on. When they are stopp’d at any broad River, or standing Lake, they kill and flea their worst Horses; then turning the Skins inside out, and well Liquoring, they stretch them open with the Ribs, which stand like the Bayles of a Tilted Wherry, and thus furnish’d, serves them for a Boat to carry eight Persons. When they take the Field, going to War, not any but musters three Horses; which makes their Armies, when drawn out in Campain, shew much bigger than indeed they are: And though many of them are kill’d in the Wars, or slain for Food, yet the _European Tartars_ pay yearly forty thousand Horses to the _Russians_; from whence _Grotius_ thus argues, “If _America_ joyns to _Tartary_, then the Horses which run wild at Grass might easily have found _America_ themselves, seeking to improve their Pasture, and have gone from one Countrey into the other, as it appears, that since the _Spaniards_ transported Horses to _America_, they are dispers’d over the highest Mountains, out of one Province into the other: Or if the _Straights of Anian_ run between both, the _Tartars_ never were Navigators; and suppose they had been, they would not have cross’d without Horses, without which they knew not how to subsist.” To which we only say thus, That although _Tartary_ now, and in former times, abounded in Horse, yet must we grant, that it hath been always so? or that the ancient _Scythians_, who we avouch first planted _America_, had such frequent use of them as the _Tartars_ now. This may be controverted, for that these _Scythians_ planting there in the Non-age of Time, presently after the Flood, the use of Horses was unknown, which the Ancient Poets testifie by their Fiction of _Centaurs_, who when first seen, the Horse and Rider were taken for one Creature. The like mistake the _Mexicans_ had, when they saw the mounted _Spaniards_, a thousand running away from one Cavalier. As to their coming thither of themselves, it may easily be confuted: Who knows not, that there is no Countrey a continu’d Pasture, but luxurious Vales separated with inaccessible Mountains, Lakes, and vast Wildernesses. But _David Ingram_ relates, “That he saw some Horses in the Northern _America_, which the _Mexicans_, and other Conquests of the _Spaniards_ never heard of:” Whereupon we may conclude, and we suppose without all peradventure, That the _Americans_ have absolutely their Original from _Tartary_, which bordering _Armenia_, where _Noah_’s Ark first rested, hath a convenient way, though beyond the _Artick Circle_, through a temperate Climate betwixt Heat and Cold, to _Cathay_, in the same Parallel with the neighboring _America_. [Illustration] CHAP. III. _First Discoverers of_ America. Christopher Colonus _his Expedition_. [Sidenote: _Pet Bizari Res Genoan._ lib. 16.] [Sidenote: _Lib. 11. Hist. Georg._] [Sidenote: _Christoph. Colonus_’s Birth.] _Christopher Colonus_, generally (though by mistake) call’d _Columbus_, was born in _Arbizolo_, a Village in the Dominion of _Genoa_, near _Savona_; his Father liv’d by Fishing in the Midland-Sea: So that _Sebastian Schroter_, and others besides him, are mistaken, saying, _Colonus_ was born in the City _Cucureum_, and descended of the Noble Family _Pilistrelli_: For _Peter Bezarus_, _Colonus_ his Countrey-man, gives unquestionable Proofs of his mean Extract; and amongst other things, That the Common-wealth of _Genoa_ refus’d to receive the great Legacy which _Colonus_ left them in his Will, because they fondly thought it a derogation to their Honor, being so great a Republick, to take any thing of Bequest from a Fishers Son: Yet his Majesty of _Castile_ thought otherwise, not onely enriching him with Wealth, and a fair Revenue for his Discovery of the _West-Indies_; but also, though of a low derivation, rais’d him to great Honor, Ennobling him the first of his Family with Dignities, Titles, and Escutcheon, which rank’d him in place among his Prime Nobility. [Sidenote: His Life.] [Sidenote: Strange Accident. _Hist. Peru._] [Sidenote: Makes his Address at _Genoa_.] [Sidenote: _To the Portuguese_,] [Sidenote: _English_,] [Sidenote: And _Castilian_ King, concerning a New World.] [Sidenote: Sails from _Cadiz_ to discover New Countreys.] [Sidenote: His People rebel.] [Sidenote: Discovers _Hispaniola_.] [Sidenote: Trades with the Natives.] _Colonus_, whom we shall henceforth call _Columbus_, spent his Youth near the Sea, where he was busie exploring the Winds, considering their Natures, and the Quarters whence they rose, especially with the setting of the Current from the _Atlantick_ to the _Mediterrane_. The Western Winds, which often, as well as the _Levant_, blow several days together from the great Ocean, much amusing him, hinted at last some Notions, that there might be another World, and new Places to be discover’d, beyond the setting of the Sun; and that the _Ne plus ultra_ should not be, if he could help it, the commanding Terminary of the Earth that way. He also spent much time, being of a solid Judgment, in the Emendations of Charts and Maps, then very much improvable: And the _Portuguese_, who at that time had got the start in Navigation from all other People, being then busie to find a way by the South of _Africa_ to the _East-Indies_, not contented to go by hearsay, he went himself in Person a Voyage with them. Soon after _Columbus_ settled himself in the Island _Madera_, where an Accident hapned, which _Francis Lopez de Gomesa_ relates thus: “The Master of a Ship, whose Name and Countrey lies buried in Oblivion (though some would have him to be of _Spain_, some an _Andalusian_ or _Biscayner_, and others a _Portuguese_) Trading the _Canaries_ and _Flemmish-Isles_, was surpris’d by a hideous Tempest from the East, which hurried him _nolens volens_ through dreadful Waves, where at last he found himself ingag’d upon a Western Coast, altogether unknown. The Storm ceasing, without making further Discoveries, he pick’d his way homeward, at last Landing in the Haven of _Madera_: All his Crew but three and himself, with hardship, want, and the long Voyage having perish’d, himself dangerously sick, was carried into _Columbus_ his House; where lying on his Death-Bed, he bequeath’d to _Columbus_ his Maps, Journals, and other Observations of this his unfortunate Voyage.” _Columbus_ being by these Papers more confirm’d than ever in his Opinion of a New World in the West, declar’d what he verily believ’d, to the States of _Genoa_; but they look’d upon him as a vain and idle Fellow; yet _Columbus_ full of his great Project, thus slighted and scornfully rejected, sate not so down, but address’d himself to the King of _Portugal_, where they wearied him, spending long time with dilatory Answers, to no effect; the Opinion of a whole Court of expert Navigators having cast his Declaration out, as a _Chimera_ or meer Fancy. Soon after _Columbus_ sending his Brother into _England_, to move the Business to King _Henry_ the Seventh, he being taken Prisoner by the way, and lying long er’e his Release, came too late to the _English_ Court, prevented by the News of _Christopher_’s return with Success from his intended Voyage: For mean while _Ferdinando_ and _Isabella_ King of _Castile_, having finish’d his Wars with the _Moors_, had furnish’d him out for the Expedition; which he effected by the favor of _Alfonso Mendotio_ and _Alfonso Quintavilia_, both great Ministers of State under _Ferdinand_ and _Isabel_, and obtain’d so much at last, that he was sent with a hundred and twenty Souldiers, besides Sea-men, in two Ships, and one Pinnace. Thus supplied, he set Sail from _Cadiz_ upon the Kings account the fourth of _August, Anno 1492._ and first reach’d the _Canary-Islands_, and from thence steering South-West, the Wind in thirty three days scarce varying one Point: But though the Weather blew so constant, yet the Sea-men chang’d their Minds, and Storm’d quite contrary, crying, That _Columbus_ was guilty of all their Deaths: _For_ (said they, after they had lost sight of the _Canaries_ so many days, nothing appearing but Sea and Sky) _Who can hope for any Success or happy conclusion of so desperate a Voyage, so rashly undertaken, and found now so full of eminent danger?_ Yet _Columbus_ bore bravely up, and weather’d all their Exclamations, although they threatned no less than his Murder: At last Articling, they came to this Agreement, _That if after sailing forwards three days more, no Land were discover’d, they should return_: But about two a Clock the next Night, _Columbus_ saw a glimmering like Fire in the Sky, and in the Morning found himself close aboard a most pleasant Coast, where Landing with twelve Men, he erected a Cross cut out of a Tree. Thence he sail’d over to _Cuba_, where the Sea was so rough, that he was forc’d to stand off, fearing Rocks and Shallow Water. Soon after he got to the Northward of the Island _Haytin_, which he call’d _Hispaniola_: Here his best Ship was bulged upon a Rock, on which they had all perish’d, had it not been flat on the top, so that the Soldiers and the whole Crew of Sea-men were sav’d by the two Vessels. The Inhabitants stark naked, seeing these Strangers, fled to the Woods; but the _Spaniards_ overtaking a Woman, they entertain’d her with Sweet-meats and _Spanish_ Wine, and putting her on a white Shirt, sent her again to the rest of the Natives, where return’d, she told what good Entertainment she had had to her Companions; whereupon divers of the Islanders came aboard of the _Spaniards_, in Boats made of one piece of Wood, where they barter’d Gold for Beads, pieces of Glass, Knives, Shells, and other Trifles. The King of _Guaccanarillo_ gave testimony of peculiar inclination to the _Spaniards_, helping them to Fish up the remaining Goods of the Wreck, and inform’d them, That some Rivers flowing from the tops of high Mountains, wash’d down the Gold amongst the Sand: notwithstanding a strange Prophecy had been told to these Islanders, namely, _That Bearded Men out of remote Countries should destroy their Goods, take their Land, and massacre their Children_. He also told them what made them fly, and betake them to their Heels at the arrival of the _Spaniards_, because they were oftentimes surpris’d by the _Cannibals_, who snatch’d up all they could lay hold on: Their Boys and Striplings they gelded, cooping and cramming them up, as we our Capons, for Feasts: The young and well-grown Men they chopp’d to pieces, salted, and Barrel’d up: Young Women they preserv’d for breed, and old ones they made Slaves. These _Cannibals_ were so terrible to the Inhabitants of _Haytin_, that a thousand of them durst not venture to engage against ten, but would run every way, dispers’d like Flocks of Sheep before the Wolf. Lastly, Their King permitted the _Spaniards_ to build a Lodge or Hovel, wherein thirty or forty of them might shelter; but indeed so taking possession in right of the King of _Spain_. [Sidenote: Returns to _Spain_.] [Sidenote: Is highly honor’d.] [Sidenote: Goes with seventeen Sail a second time to _Hispaniola_.] Mean while _Columbus_ return’d in safety to _Spain_, and was receiv’d with great joy, King _Ferdinand_ making him Admiral of the Sea, and sending his Brother _Bartholomew_ Governor to _Haytin_, now call’d _Hispaniola_. The Gold, Parrots, Mastick, Aloes, the strange Bread _Jucca_, whose extracted Juyce is rank Poyson, but the Body makes good Meal, which kneaded and bak’d, yields a fine Manchet and wholesom Food, they look’d upon with great delight and admiration; but two of the Natives being naked, with Gold Rings through their Noses and Ears, Ornaments with them of high esteem, and signifying their no mean Quality, the People old and young came in Throngs to wonder at, never weary of gazing upon them. But the King, encourag’d by this Success, took no dilatory Course, but suddenly, and before any could expect, built fourteen stout Carvels, and three Frigats, and as soon mann’d them with twelve hundred Soldiers, besides a great number of Artificers of all sorts, with their Wives and Children, freighting them with Horses, Swine, Goats, Cattel for Breed, all sorts of _European_ Corn to sow, Fruit-Trees and Vines to plant, and some Priests to instruct and convert the Natives to their Religion. [Sidenote: _The Barbadoes_, _St. Christophers_, _&c._] [Sidenote: The Huts of the _Cannibals_.] The second of _September_, _Anno 1493._ they set sail from _Cadiz_, and Anchor’d before _Ferreo_, the last and furthest of the _Canary-Islands_, where they could get no Water, but what dropp’d from the Dew hanging on Trees into Troughs. After that, _Columbus_ came on the one and twentieth day amongst the _Caribby-Islands_, where he dropp’d Anchor before one, which he call’d _Dominico_; but finding it desolate, set sail further, and discover’d several other Coasts, where he likewise found nothing but very great Porcupines or Hedg-hogs, and sweet-smelling Trees. Steering forward, he found the Coasts of the _Cannibals_, which inhabited along the Shore in little Huts or Hovels, built round of Wood, and stak’d about on the out-side with long Poles, like _Palisado_’s: They have also Posts within, which are shorter, pleited and fastned together with Cotton, or long Roots of Trees, plyant like our Osiars, over which they hang Cloths painted with horrible Figures and strange Representations: The Roofs rise like our Canopy’d Tents, highest in the middle, cover’d with Palm-Tree Leaves to keep off the Rain: At the Entrances hang two Hairy Images on Poles, not for Religion sake, but Ornament: Their Bed-steads being high from the Ground, are fill’d with a kind of Straw; and in long Hovels fitted for that purpose they store their Sugar. [Sidenote: Island _Guadalupe_.] _Columbus_ landing here, found all the _Cannibals_ fled; but their Houses full of Stone Vessels, Cruises, Pans, and Pots, boyling with Mens Flesh, Parrots, and Wild-foul; the Hanches and Sides of young Men, on Spits roasting at the Fire, with the Splinters of whose broken Bones they headed their Arrows. This Island by the Inhabitants call’d _Carucueria_, _Columbus_ chang’d to _Guadalupe_, because the Mountains rise up with their tops not unlike _Estremadura_ in _Spain_, famous there for the wonderful Representation of our Lady, as that of the Lady of _Loretto_ in _Italy_. Thirty Women which he had taken from the neighboring Isles, he sent with Presents to the fled _Canibals_, which the next day returning, made a great appearance near the Shore; but when they had gaz’d a while upon the _Spaniards_, looking stedfastly on one another, they suddenly ran back again, sheltring themselves in the Covert of the Woods. _Columbus_ thinking it not worth his while to expect their return, seeing their barbarous Life, burnt and destroy’d all their Boats, and spoiling whatever he could, sail’d to _Matanino_. [Sidenote: Strange Women in _Matanino_.] The releas’d Women in _Guadalupe_, that came back again, inform’d the _Spaniards_, That _Matanino_ was an Isle onely inhabited by Women, which at accustom’d times row’d over to these _Cannibals_, where a while they drove a Trade and Commerce of Love, the Product of which, if Girls, they kept; but the Boys they sent over to their Fathers. They live in Caves, the Mouths and Entrances of which they maintain and stoutly make good with their Bowe, shooting Arrows as thick as Hail at the approach of Men, after their impregnating by the _Cannibals_. [Sidenote: Remarkable Passage of _Columbus_.] [Sidenote: Salvageness of the _Indians_.] From hence the Fleet pass’d by several other fruitful Islands, _Columbus_ giving them the Names of _Montseratto_, _Rodondo_, _St. Martin_, _Santa Cruz_, formerly by the Inhabitants call’d _Ayaya_. On this last Island he landed thirty Men, who took four Women, which held out their Hands before them, as if Petitioners that begg’d Quarter, or praying, and then conceal’d themselves in Ambuscade, the better to surprize more; when by chance they spied an _Indian_ _Canoo_ at Sea, with eight Men, and as many Women; whereupon those in Ambuscade made a Signal to the next Ship, which immediately sent off some Boats well Mann’d; but before they drew near them, or expected an On-set, one of the _Spaniards_ was kill’d, and another wounded with their Arrows; amongst whom a Woman, to whom all the rest shew’d greatest Respect and Reverence, aim’d very exactly. Their barbed Shafts were poyson’d; whereupon the _Spaniards_ enrag’d, stemm’d the _Canoo_, and oversetting, row’d quite over; which little or nothing avail’d; for they all swam, and though separated, shot their Arrows at them, as if the Boat had been a But. At last the _Indians_ got upon a blind Rock, cover’d with Shole Water, which gave them fresh Courage; but the _Spaniards_ having more aid sent them from the Fleet, took them all Prisoners; but the Queens Son being wounded in the Scuffle, and dying soon after, was thrown overboard. The Prisoners being brought before _Columbus_, foam’d at the Mouth for raging madness; and being afterwards carried to _Castile_, so retain’d their fierce and salvage Nature, that they scar’d away and frighted the safe Beholders. [Sidenote: _Columbus_ comes to _Hispaniola_.] [Sidenote: Finds the _Spaniards_ slain.] [Sidenote: His Discourse with the King _Guaccanarillo_.] [Sidenote: Strange gathering of Gold.] [Sidenote: _Decas 1. De Orba Novo._] Mean while the _Spanish_ Fleet proceeded on their Voyage, between several Islands, to _Hispaniola_, of which some appear desolate and barren, others green and Woody; the small Vessels sailing close under the Shore, and the great ones standing further off at Sea, which was very turbulent, and beat exceedingly against the Shole Rocks. The Island _Burichema_, _Columbus_ call’d _St. Johns_, to which belong’d some of the Women sent forth in _Guadalupe_, who inform’d them, That _Burichema_ was well inhabited by a kind and hospitable People, who when the _Cannibals_ landed there fought them, and if Conquerors, were so much exasperated with their inhumane Barbarisms, that they seiz’d on them like Mastiffs open-mouth’d, and tore them piece-meal with their Teeth; yet themselves abhorring the Custom of eating Mens Flesh. Here the _Spaniards_ found onely a large House, surrounded with twelve lesser ones, all deserted; for the Inhabitants with their King _Chiasichio_ were then retir’d into the cool and more sheltring Woods, from the mid-day Heat. All this the _Indians_ told him, which he brought back with him from _Spain_. Coming to an Anchor at _Hispaniola_, he sent one of the _Indians_ ashore, that he might tell what brave things he had seen in the _Spanish_ Court; but the remaining three took the advantage of the following Night, and leaping over-board, swam to Shore. But this Accident he not much regarded, trusting to have a sufficient Account from his eight and thirty _Spaniards_ which he had left in the Fort upon the Island; and the more, because King _Guaccanarillo_’s brother, in sign of Friendship, had presented him with two Golden Images: But all these Conjectures fail’d him, so that hearing nothing, he landed, where he found the _Spanish_ Garrison utterly destroy’d, and the Royal Fort burnt down to the Ground, and lying in a heap of Ashes. Then they fired several Guns, to give notice, that if any of them had conceal’d themselves, and lay sculking in the Woods, or otherwise, they should discover themselves, and come to the succour of their Friends: But all in vain, for none came; for as they were afterwards inform’d, the Inhabitants had slain them, because of their insupportable behavior, insolently committing Robberies, Rapes, and Murders: Hereupon he sent Messengers to the King _Guaccanarillo_, to inquire why they had fired his Fort, and what they had done with his Men, who brought him this Return, That over that mighty Island were many Princes, of which two being provok’d by the reports of the Strangers that were entertain’d in the Island, came marching upon them, each with their Armies; but that he endeavor’d what he could, and came with a Power to assist the Strangers; yet all he got for his Kindness, was a Wound in his Leg, which had been so sore and troublesom, that forc’d him to keep his Bed, and no less than seven Concubines to attend him, and dress the Wound: But he told his Tale so ill, and feign’d his Lameness worse, that _Sibilius_, one of the Messengers sent by _Columbus_, lifting up the Coverlet, saw that he ail’d nothing, which soon confirm’d his doubt, that he was confederated with the rest, and alike guilty of the Slaughter. At last _Guaccanarillo_ being desir’d, came in Person to _Columbus_, in whose presence he held a long Discourse with an _Indian_ Woman, which they had brought from the Island of _Santa Cruz_, there Christned by the Name of _Catharine_: At length _Guaccanarillo_ was dismiss’d, and the Night following this _Catharine_, with seven more of the _Indian_ Women, leap’d over-board, and swom almost a League to Shore, so going thence directly to their King _Guaccanarillo_. This Accident gave more suspicion to _Columbus_, who thereupon sent three hundred Men, commanded by _Melchior_, _Hoieda_, and _Gorvalano_, to march through the Island three several ways, and with special Commission to secure as their Prisoner _Guaccanarillo_. _Melchior_ discover’d a wide River, full of Reaches and winding Bays, gliding between high Hills cover’d with Woods, resounding with the ecchoing noises of harmonious Birds, and disemboguing his Waters, enlarg’d by two other Rivers, into the Sea, so making a convenient Harbor for Ships. Here a hundred of the Islanders, well Arm’d after their manner, met them, crying aloud, _We are no_ Cannibals, _but_ Taynos, that is, _a People more civil than they are cruel_. The _Spaniards_ making Signs of Peace, the _Taynos_ approach’d, and joyn’d their Forces in a friendly manner. Near the place of this Meeting appear’d a House built in an Oval fashion, being thirty two Paces in the Circumference, the Roof curiously pleited of divers colour’d Rushes, round about which stood thirty lesser Dwellings. Mean while, in his March _Hoieda_ discover’d a River that descended from a high Mountain, where the Inhabitants gather’d much Gold after this manner: They dig a Hole about two Foot deep; then taking up their left Hand full of Sand, with their right Hand they cull out the precious Ingots, which little accounting of, as they gather’d, they dealt away to the _Spaniards_. Most of the Pieces were as big as Pease, yet some so large, that they weigh’d nine Ounces. _Peter Martyr_, Councellor to the Emperor _Charles_, tells us, That he hath seen of them in the _Spanish_ Court, that were brought over thither by _Columbus_. Moreover, _Hoieda_ was inform’d here, That this Gold-River took its Original in the Province belonging to _Cacicus Caunaboa_, signifying, _The King of the Golden Palace_. [Sidenote: _Columbus_ builds a City.] [Sidenote: Strange fruitfulness there.] Mean time _Columbus_ selected a piece of Ground on a rising Hill, on the North part of the Isle, where he intended to build a City, because close by the Hill on one side rises a Mountain, pregnant with Stone and Chalk; on the other, a Plain, so exceeding fruitful and pleasant, that the Sun scarce shines upon a more delightful and fertile Soil, which they found afterwards by experience. Here Melons are set and ripe in thirty six days; Corn, in two Months; twice a Year the Trees and Plants bring forth their several Products; the Vines come to maturity, and are loaden with Clusters of Grapes, in two Years, and Sugar-Canes grow as thick as a Mans Arm in fifteen days. On this pleasant Soil, accommodated with a convenient Haven, _Columbus_ afterwards built the City _Isabella_, fortified with Walls and Trenches against all Invasions, over which he made his Brother _Bartholomew Columbus_ first Governor. Mean while the Admiral _Columbus_ himself march’d up into the Countrey with three hundred Men, in quest of the Gold Mines. Seventy two Leagues the Valley _Cibava_ lies distant from _Isabella_, to which _Columbus_ pass’d over swift Currents and high Mountains, where he built a Fort, which he call’d _St. Thomas_; and exchang’d with the Inhabitants Toys and Trifles, for Pieces and Ingots of Gold, which the Inhabitants, as before-mention’d, found in the Sand of their Rivers: And besides, they inform’d him, That about half a days Journey further, greater Quantities of Gold were to be found, in a browner colour’d Soil: Whereupon _Luxanus_, one of his Officers, was sent with a sufficient Party thither, who march’d through a delightful way, cool with shady Boughs, and pleasant with the prospect of spacious Meadows, where they mow’d Grass for their Horses, which in four days time grew up again higher than our tallest Wheat. [Sidenote: Goes to Sea to discover new Countreys.] Mean time _Columbus_ being return’d with great Riches to his new City _Isabella_, went soon after by Sea, with three Vessels, to discover new Countreys more remote; which his Design fell out also successfully; for he fell first upon _Jamaica_, where he found more stout Opposition than elsewhere, by the Natives, at his Landing; but finding themselves over-power’d, they came to Agreement, and accepting an amicable Composure, presently struck up a Peace. From thence putting to Sea, he next discover’d _Cuba_, which sailing round about, he found also to be an Island; where Landing in a convenient Harbor, on each fenc’d with a high and jutting Rock, he espied two little Hovels, wherein was abundance of Fish, besides two great Snakes or Serpents, each having eight Feet, spitted, and ready to be laid to the Fire to be roasted; but neither Man, Woman, nor Child to be seen, they being gone with part of the Fish they had dress’d, into the adjacent Woods; whither the _Spaniards_ following, saw hanging by small Strings, on the Branches of Trees, abundance of Snakes, some of which had their Mouths tied together, others their Tongue and Teeth pull’d out. Hence marching on, a little beyond they saw a Company of the Natives, which they judg’d to be about seventy Men, covering the top or summit of a Hill, to whom the _Spaniards_ made Signs, and to entice them near, shew’d several of their gawdy Trifles; but in vain, till at last one adventur’d, descending from the Hill, to whom one of the Natives (who in the first Voyage that the Admiral made, was taken from the Island _Guanabaini_ near _Cuba_, carried to _Spain_, and there Christned) call’d aloud, telling him they need not fear, they should have no harm done them; which said, they came down all together, and inform’d them, That they were sent by their King to catch Fish for another King, which was with him at Dinner; and if they had not eaten the Serpents, they gave them many thanks; for they were provided for the second Course, and very scarce to be got, being a greater Dainty than any Fish. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Discovers not without great Accidents, several New Countreys.] _Columbus_ from hence proceeding on further Westward, discover’d a fruitful Coast, verging the Mouth of a River, whose Water runs boyling hot into the Sea. Somewhat further he saw very strange Fishes, especially the _Guaican_, not unlike an Eel, but with an extraordinary great Head, over which hangs a Skin like a Bag. This Fish is the Natives Fisher; for having a Line or handsom Cord fastned about him, so soon as a Turtel, or any other of his Prey, comes above Water, they give him Line; whereupon the _Guaican_, like an Arrow out of a Bowe, shoots towards the other Fish, and then gathering the Mouth of the Bag on his Head like a Purse-net holds them so fast, that he lets not loose till hal’d up out of the Water. Here the _Spaniards_ having Din’d on delicate Fish, went on still Westward, and came to an uninhabited Isle, but well stor’d with Geese, Pelicans, and ugly Dogs that could not bark. Here they came amongst so many Shoals, that the Keels of their Ships raked upon the Ground almost forty Leagues together, the Water thick and white like Milk. Lastly, they came again into deep Water, and Landed at the Foot of a high Mountain, on the Island _Cuba_; where they found two Springs of very sweet Water. A Musqueteer going into the Woods whilst the rest fill’d their Vessels with Water and cut Wood, he spied a tall Man in a Coat like a white Fryer’s Frock; behind whom came two more, and soon after thirty more follow’d, all alike Habited: the Musqueteer running away, they beckned him to stay, but he march’d off; and informing _Columbus_ of his Adventure, he sent a Party well Arm’d to see farther into the Countrey; but they neither saw nor heard any Men, onely found on the other side of the Wood a great Plain, but so overgrown with deep Grass, that it was impossible to get through: The next day he sent out twenty five more, which found nothing else than the Prints of the Steps of great Beasts and Lyons, and also abundance of large Grapes, which hung on the Branches of Vines, clasping about the Bodies of the great Trees. Hence _Columbus_ again putting to Sea, and Sailing Westerly, found a Shore overflow’d with Water, and abounding with Pearl-Mussles, and after that the whole Countrey full of Mountains, whose tops smoaked. By this time the Fleet was much damnified by the Shole-water; where, as we mention’d before, they often struck, and their Keels rak’d upon the Ground; so that having sprung several Leaks, and their Provisions growing mouldy with the Damp, they were forc’d to return; and Tacking about they ran against Turtles, which lay as thick in the Sea as if they had been sow’n. _Columbus_ now on his return home, and Landing once more on _Cuba_, found an antient Man stark naked, who speaking to him (_Didacus_ interpreted, the Language in some part agreeing with that of _Hispaniola_) to this effect: _You have to all admiration come to see this Countrey from another World, my advice to you is, That you hurt none; for the Souls of evil-doers go to dark places: But on the contrary, they shall enjoy the heighth of all Pleasures that are Friends to Peace._ _Columbus_ reply’d, _That he came a Scourge for the cruel Cannibals, but a Shield to protect the quiet and well-meaning Indians_. [Sidenote: Great disturbance in _Hispaniola_.] After this, returning to _Hispaniola_, much contrary to his expectation, he found all things which he had setled there turn’d topsie-turvy: for first the Governors at _Isabella_ jangled, and were at private contentions amongst themselves, and the _Benedictine_ Monk _Boilus_ and _Peter Margarites_ were return’d to _Spain_; there to make their complaints at Court: and besides, the _Spaniards_ had dealt very inhumanely with the Natives, by their frequent Rapes, Thefts, and Murders; wherefore the _Indians_, not unjustly incens’d, destroy’d all the _Spaniards_ they found stragling in any part without the Lines of their Fortification. _Caunaboa_ also lay about the Fort _St. Thomas_, and closely besieged _Hoieda_; but receiving intelligence of _Columbus_’s arrival, he broke up his Siege, and march’d from thence, but soon after was taken Prisoner by the _Spaniards_. Mean while upon Design (a Plot none of the wisest) the Natives of _Hispaniola_ had neither Till’d or Sow’d the Ground, or us’d Agriculture the year before, contriving by want of Provisions (not considering themselves) to starve out the _Spaniards_; but the mischief fell upon the Contrivers: for so great a Famine hapned, that spreading over the whole Countrey, in a few Moneths fifty thousand were starv’d to death; but the _Spaniards_ made a saving, though hard shift with their own store, then, though too late, the Islanders repented of their folly, for they saw the _Spaniards_ making an advantage of their misery, not onely built more Houses in their City _Isabella_, but prepar’d their Weather-beaten Vessels, with which Sailing to the Gold Mountains of _Cipangi_ on the Hill, whence sprung several Fountains, they rais’d the Castle of the _Conception_. Great benefit they reap’d by this Fort, to which they carry’d daily abundance of Amber, Brimstone, mix’d Ore of Silver and Gold, and _Brazile_-wood, besides great store of Gold: and they might have gotten ten times more, had they not been so much inclin’d to slothfulness, and minding other vain pleasures: yet notwithstanding all, the Fleet carry’d that year above one thousand two hundred pound weight of Gold to _Spain_. [Sidenote: _Spaniards_ tyrannise there.] In the mean while the Natives complain’d to _Columbus_ of the _Spanish_ Soldiers, which under pretence to seek for Gold, committed many insufferable Outrages; therefore they desir’d that they might be retain’d in their Forts, and not straggle so much abroad, and they would willingly bring them every three Moneths a certain weight of Cotton, Amber, _Brazile_-wood, and Gold, more than equivalent to what they snatch’d; but _Columbus_ (whose Soldiers, notwithstanding his severity, and using Martial Law upon some of them for their Crimes, and proud with their success) yet prevail’d at last, that they consented thereto; but the Inhabitants never perform’d their promise, who being almost famish’d, had much to do to preserve themselves alive, spending their time in picking Sallads. [Sidenote: Their Conquest.] Whilst the Business remain’d in this ill posture, or rather confusion, _Cibanus_, Brother to the imprison’d _Caunaboa_, rais’d an Army of five thousand Men: the _Spaniards_, divided into five Companies, march’d to meet him; and their Enemies being naked, and having no other Arms than Bowes, Arrows, and Clubs, after some little resistance, were soon dissipated and put to flight, but overtaken by the _Spanish_ Horse, many of them were taken Prisoners, and others forc’d to skulk and hide themselves on the tops of Mountains. [Sidenote: Horible Tempest.] [Sidenote: A remarkable passage concerning _Bartholomew Columbus_.] [Sidenote: Brave reception of a King in _Hispaniola_.] Shortly after this Battel hapned a Huricane, mix’d with Thunder-claps, renting great pieces from the Rocks, and the Wind blowing out of the East, threw down Houses and Trees, some of which were carry’d a vast heighth into the Air; three Ships that rode in the Harbor, broke their new Cables, and split against the Rocks. The _Spaniards_ expected nought else, but that with this excessive Tempest the Day of Judgment was at hand. And on the other side, the Islanders ascribed this raging of Heavens to the _Spaniards_ wickedness. This Storm past, and the Air setled, _Columbus_ gave order for the building of two new Ships there, with which in _March_, _Anno 1495._ he return’d to _Spain_; where in _Medina del Campo_ he gave an account at the Court about the discover’d Countreys; where also Sentence was pass’d on several _Spaniards_, and chiefly concerning the _Benedictine_ Monk _Boilus_, who out of meer malice pass’d by him at Mass with the Host, while he gave it to others, without any distinction. Then he gave a further account, that his Brother _Bartholomew_ had found, sixty Leagues beyond _Isabella_, several deep Pits, the uppermost Ground of which Sifted, produced abundance of Gold. Moreover, that he had built the Castle _Aurea_ there in three Moneths time with little trouble: but because Provisions grew scarce there, he found himself necessitated to remove, but left ten Men in the Garrison, and had sent three hundred of the Islanders with their Governors to _Spain_. He also built the Castle _Dominico_, on the South-side of _Hispaniola_; from whence he had travell’d into the Countrey to the River _Naiba_: where, upon this Shore the King _Beuchio Anacauchoa_ Encamp’d himself against the _Naibans_, to bring them, besides several other People, under his subjection. That _Bartholomew_ demanded Tribute of _Anacauchoa_, which he immediately promis’d to pay, and disbanded his Forces, conducting _Bartholomew_ above thirty Leagues on his Way, along a Path on both sides sown with Hemp, and planted with Cotton-Trees, to his Palace _Xaraqua_, in the West of _Hispaniola_, where he was received in great state: Thirty of the Kings Wives walk’d before, carrying in their Hands Boughs of Palm-trees, and both Sung and Danc’d very strangely; behind these came a considerable number of naked Virgins, very handsom; at last _Bartholomew_ entring the Palace with the King, found a Table furnish’d with all manner of Dainties, and a very courteous Entertainment. The next day walking forth to a large Plain, and looking about he saw two Parties that deeply engag’d in Fight behind a Hill, with great slaughter on both sides, and had not he desir’d that they might be parted, there had been much more Blood shed. After he had been several days friendly entertain’d, he return’d to the Forts _Isabella_, _Sperancia_, _Catharina_, _St. Jago_, _Turrita_, _Conception_, and _Dominico_; where he found above three hundred _Spaniards_ starv’d of hunger, besides many that were sick. [Illustration] [Illustration: ANGRA op TERCERA.] At that time _Guarionexius_ having been oppress’d by the _Spaniards_, and a long time watching for an opportunity, now thinking he had found it, rais’d an Army of fifteen thousand Men, with which he was resolv’d to try his fortune against _Columbus_; who privately receiving intelligence thereof, fell upon him so on a sudden and unexpectedly, that he spoil’d his Design, and took all his Commanders Prisoners: But to oblige the Inhabitants, who begg’d for their King, _Columbus_ set him at liberty, advising him to be careful of raising a War against him any more. But he not being able to endure the oppressions of _Roldanus Ximenez_, a _Spanish_ Commander, fled to the wild _Ciquano_’s, descended from the Canibals, and living on steep Mountains: Of these he desir’d aid against the _Spaniards_, and obtain’d not onely their Promise, but some Men; with which he robb’d and pillag’d the Countrey round about, and what _Spaniards_ he met with he kill’d, and with his Men did eat, as if a Venison Feast. Mean while _Ximenez_ made himself Leader of seventy Rebels, which like raging blood-hounds fell upon the Natives after a terrible manner. [Sidenote: _Columbus_ Sails the third time to _Hispaniola_.] [Sidenote: Description of the City _Angra_.] Whilst all things were thus in disorder at _Hispaniola_, the Admiral _Christopher Columbus_ set Sail a third time with eight Ships from the Haven _Barrameda_, in the Year 1498. To shun the _French_ Pyrates, which watched for the _Indian_ Treasures, he directed his Course to _Madera_, a fruitful Island of Corn, Wine, Sugar, Wax, and Cattel, desolate till _Anno 1420._ Here coming to an Anchor, he sent six Ships away to _Hispaniola_, which himself afterwards followed with the remaining two, steering by the _Flemish_ Islands, or _Acores_, first so call’d from the _Flemings_, the first Planters: Here he dropt Anchor before the City _Angra_ on the Isle _Tercera_, which is sixteen Leagues in circumference, and very Mountainous; the tops whereof are like Spires, and abound with Grapes: the Plain Countrey produces great store of Corn, but it will not keep above twelve Moneths. The Ground is oftentimes terribly shaken by Earthquakes, and between several sulphurous Places, both Flames and Smoak ascend up to the Sky. Near the City _Angra_ is a Fountain which turns Wood into Stone. The Winds in this Place blow so fierce and strong, that they not onely beat down Houses, but wear out Iron, and all manner of Stone-work. In _Angra_ the chief Commander of all the _Flemish_ Isles hath his Residence. The City, surrounded by steep Rocks, lies towards the Sea like a Crescent, or Half-Moon; for at both ends thereof the Mountains extend with deep Points into the Ocean. The uppermost part towards the West stands likewise fortifi’d by a high Rock, as also by another on the East: on both are continual Watches kept; whereof those on the first can discover Ships fifteen Leagues off at Sea, coming either from the _East_ or _West-Indies_; and on the other, all those that come from _Europe_: When they see above fifteen Sail, they put out the Kings great Flag upon the top of all the Rock. This City of _Angra_ is divided into several Streets: the Governor and Archbishop live each in a stately Palace; five handsom Churches are no small ornament to it; the Sea before it abounds with Fish, but are not to be taken in _December_, by reason of the turbulent Waves. _Christopher Columbus_ having refresh’d at _Angra_, Sail’d along the _African_ Coast between the _Hesperides_: under the Equinoctial he was so miserably tormented by the Heat, that his Vessels seem’d to burn, the Hoops sprung from the Casks, so that the Water run about the Hold; and they could expect nothing but death from the insufferable Heat, and want of Water: eight days they had endur’d this hardship, when they met with a fresh Gale out of the South-East, so that they made great Way towards the West. On the last of _July_ he discover’d three high Mountains; and approaching near the Shore, he smelt as in a Posie, all the sweet breathings of fragrant Flowers commix’d, and at last saw a convenient Haven; where going ashore he found cultivated Grounds, and steps of Beasts, but not a Man appear’d: the next day they spy’d a Boat with twenty young Men come rowing from the Shore into the Ocean. The Admiral hal’d them in vain to come aboard, for they made the greater hast ashore, still looking about continually with great admiration on the Ships: whereupon he commanded them to beat their Drums, and sound their Trumpets, that they might by that means entice them aboard; but they rather taking it as a sign of War, made themselves ready for resistance: mean while the _Spaniards_ overtook the _Indian_ Boat, into which they threw a Hat, and other trifles; the Islanders amaz’d thereat, made signs to them to row ashore; but soon after they fled. [Sidenote: Abundance of Pearl.] _Columbus_ proceeding on his Journey came to _Paria_, where he found a Fishers Pink loaden with Oysters; which opening and taking out the Meat, were found full of Pearls, which because of their abundance were not regarded there; for a broken Dish and a rusty Knife, the _Spaniards_ had four long Strings of Pearl. [Sidenote: _Columbus_ is in great danger.] From thence anchoring in the River of _Cumana_, several naked Men came aboard, adorn’d with Golden Armlets, and Strings of Pearl, These inform’d him, that they gather’d their Gold from the Mountains and Rivers, and caught their Pearl-oysters in the adjacent Seas. Some of the _Spaniards_ were nobly entertain’d by the King and his Son, who leading them into their Palace, placed them on Benches of Ebony-wood, curiously wrought, and on a sudden several Servants came in with variety of Dainties, and well-tasted Wine. But because Provisions grew scarce amongst the Sea-men, and their Meat tainted, _Columbus_ thought it convenient to leave the Pearl-trade till some better opportunity. Then setting forward, the farther he went, the shallower he found the Sea, insomuch that his Ship scarce had Water enough to swim. This inconvenience was followed by a second; for the Sea being full of Weeds and Grass, scarce suffer’d any Passage. A River thirty Yards deep, and twenty Leagues broad, came rushing out betwixt two Shores into this Sea with such force, that the Waves went high like Mountains, which made _Columbus_ judge himself in the greatest danger imaginable, and withall Tack about; so that he came on the eight and twentieth of _August Anno 1498._ to an Anchor before _Hispaniola_, where all things were still in a sad confusion, as we before related. [Sidenote: _Roldanus Ximenes_ opposes _Columbus_.] [Sidenote: Strange _Indians_.] _Roldanus Ximenes_ refus’d to follow _Christopher Columbus_’s, order and writ Letters to the King of _Spain_, in which he exceedingly aspersed both the Admiral _Columbus_ and his Brother; who were not backward in giving an account quite contrary by their Letters, of the horrid Villanies perpetrated by this _Ximenes_, and desir’d aid, that so great an Offender might receive condign punishment. Mean while the _Ciquano_’s came marching down with six thousand Men, which _Bartholomew_ went to meet with eighty Foot and some few Horse: The _Indians_ which he was to encounter with, rather seeming like Furies than Men, for all of them were daub’d over with black smuts on their bare Skins from Head to Foot, and their hard Hair pleited in terrible, not in Lovelocks, hung playing, or dangling over their Shoulders. When the _Spaniards_ in their March drawing up to a River where it was best fordable, had no sooner left the Bank, and taken the Water, endeavoring to wade over, but the Salvages rush’d forth out of the Woods, and let flye a showre of Arrows, that had they not been provided with Shields and Targets, to keep off such a deadly Storm, so thick they flew, and so well aim’d, most of them had perish’d there: but having recover’d the opposite Bank, the Enemy play’d all hid, and in a thought shelter’d themselves under the protection of the Woods; where the Conqueror pursuing, found the Service very difficult and dangerous, for their Armes, especially their Shields, stopping and intangling them as in a Net, among the shrubby and twining Branches; which they passing, rigled themselves, and made their way, like questing Spaniels following their Game, and still gawling them with their Arrows: whereupon they left their vain pursuit, marching another way to intercept _Mayobanexius_, who with eight thousand _Ciquano_’s were then coming down against them; which prov’d a harder task than was expected: for e’re he could reduce him and his stubborn Party, he spent three Moneths in the Service. SECT. III. [Sidenote: Hath very bad success in his fourth Expedition.] [Sidenote: Fights with _Poresius_.] [Sidenote: Dies.] But the great and worthy Service of these two excellent Brothers deserving rather Statues and Trophies of everlasting Honor, Monuments never to be demolish’d, in their due praise, who had found out after so many baffled Ages, a new World, richer, and not much less than the old, by the aspersing calumniations of one malicious Person, lost his whole Interest and Credit in the _Spanish_ Court, quite out of favour with his Prince, who by his insinuations had hinted so much the matter of Gain among the Courtiers, that every one studied no less than to get a Commission, and so going a Commander to the _Indies_, make up his Mouth, and become suddenly rich. First _Francisco Bombadilla_ prevailing, was sent with full Commission to succeed _Columbus_ in _Hispaniola_; where no sooner Landing, but he exercis’d the extremity of his Authority, and seizing the Admiral and his Brother, fetter’d their Hands and Feet, and put them aboard on two several Ships for _Spain_: where no sooner arriv’d, but the King, not altogether forgetting former Services, commanded them to be unmanacled, and waited on, not as Prisoners, with a civil Retinue to his Court; where they were well entertain’d three years. But they being active Persons, weary of so long repose, got a second Grant to make farther discoveries, and set forth the ninth of _May, Anno 1504._ with four Sail well appointed from _Cadiz_, and had a fair Passage from thence to _Hispaniola_, where begun the Storm, for _Bombadilla_, who had by the Kings Commission so evil treated _Columbus_ and his Brother, as aforemention’d, would not suffer him, though reconciled to the King, so much as to Land, and there refresh themselves and their Men; so he was forc’d to steer on to the Islands _Guamixa_ and _Veragua_, where a Huricane, or sudden stress of Weather sunk two of his Vessels; the other two standing off to Sea escap’d bilging, but so shatter’d and leaky, having also shipp’d abundance of Water, they were resolv’d to put in at _Jamaica_; where weary with the long Voyage, and hatter’d with the Tempest, many of his Sea-men, spent with sickness, after their Landing, died. To these his sufferings from Wind and Weather, and his Enemies abroad, a greater and intestine mischief hapned: _Francisco Poresio_, one of his chief Commanders, absolutely rebell’d, and deserting him, with another Party of his Sea-men went into _Hispaniola_: which the Islanders observing, resolv’d to famish him, keeping from him both Water and all other Provisions; which had not _Columbus_ stav’d off by a handsom Invention, they had compleated their Design, which was this: He told them that he was the offspring of the Moon, and if they refus’d to supply his want, the Moon, in vindication of her Son, would famish them, by spoiling what e’re they had planted or sow’d; and that this would prove true they should know by a sign, that on such a Night, she rising in her full glory, should first look red, and afterwards by degrees lose a great part of her light; which indeed so hapned, being Ecclips’d, as he could well prognosticate; and after that, they being ignorant of the cause, suppli’d him with all Necessaries. But _Poresio_, not able to endure the Sea with his small Boats, resolv’d to surprize one of the Ships that lay before _Jamaica_; but _Columbus_ so much prevented him, that meeting him in his return, after a hot dispute made him his Prisoner. But thus ended not his misfortunes; for the Vessels which he fought in soon after sunk, and no ship to be found in _Jamaica_ to transport him thence. Lastly, he agreed with some _Indian_ Fishermen, to carry _Didaco Mendoza_ to _St. Dominica_, that there he might hire two Vessels to carry him back to _Spain_: which Design taking effect, he arrived there in safety: where after he had refresh’d himself at the _Spanish_ Court, after his so long and unfortunate a Voyage he fell sick, and died on the eighth of _May_ 1506. Mean while, the Affairs of _Hispaniola_ grew more out of order: for _Bombadilla_ joyning with _Ximenes_, resolv’d to hoard up a huge Treasure of Gold, though with the infinite oppression of the Natives: of which King _Ferdinand_ having intelligence, sent _Nicholas Olanda_ thither with thirty Sail; who being nominated Vice-Roy, anchor’d in forty days before _Hispaniola_. No sooner arriv’d, but _Bombadilla_ and _Ximenes_ fled, leaving their vast Treasure, amounting to ten hundred thousand Ducats; which guarded with four hundred _Spaniards_ in twenty four Ships was sent to _Spain_: but so it hapned, that they were all swallowed up in the main Ocean, none knowing to this day in what Latitude they were lost. SECT. IV. Pietro Alponso Nigno _his Voyage_. [Sidenote: Description of _Curiana_.] _Pietro Nigno_, encourag’d by some of those that had been with _Columbus_ at the Isles of Pearl, Rigg’d out a Ship at his own charge, with special order in his Commission, that he should not touch on any Coast within fifty Leagues of any Place _Columbus_ had formerly discover’d. But he little observ’d his Orders, and what he was commanded; for Sailing into the Haven _Curiana_, he barter’d Shells, Needles, Glass, and such like Trifles, for abundance of Pearls, which the Islanders brought aboard, for he himself having but thirty Men, durst not venture ashore. Twenty days this bartering Trade continued, Orient Pearls for Toys; but finding at last, that they were a civil and hospitable People, he Landed, where they entertain’d him in Hovels built of Wood, and cover’d with Palm-Leaves; before their Doors lay great Hills of Oyster-shells, the Fish being eaten, and the Pearls us’d for an ornament; Conies, Hares, Pheasants, Pigeons, Geese, Ducks, Deer, and wild Swine, are their usual Food; and their Bread is made of the Roots of Trees. Moreover, _Curiana_ abounds with thick and shady Woods, which resound in the night with the cries and roarings of wild Beasts: but though they are terrible fierce and voracious, yet the Natives stoutly venture in amongst the thickest of them, arm’d onely with Bowes and Arrows. The Inhabitants are of Complexion tawny, their Hair long and curl’d; their Teeth they keep white with an Herb, which they continually hold betwixt their Lips. The Women perform their business of Husbandry, Ploughing and Sowing. The Men are Soldiers, following the business of War: but in Peace their Exercises are Hunting and Dancing. They keep annual Fairs, where from all Parts of the Countrey they bring their Commodities to buy and barter. They have their Gold from _Cauchieta_, six days Sail Westward from _Curiana_. Thither _Nigno_ next directed his course, and came to an Anchor there on the first of _October, Anno 1500._ The Inhabitants entred aboard without the least shiness, or fear of danger, and brought with them to barter, Gold, Civet-Cats, Parrots, and Cotton. These People, though so civil, are extreamly jealous of their Wives: for when a _Spaniard_ made address to one of them, and coming something close, her Husband stept in suddenly between, and seem’d to forbid the Banns. But coasting onward along the Shore from thence to another Isle, he found Natives far more wild and salvage: for two thousand in a Body well Arm’d, stood ready to intercept their Landing; wherefore he thought it his safest course to Tack about, and return to _Curiana_ whence he came. [Sidenote: _Nigno_ Fights with the Cannibals.] In his Way not far from thence, he fell amongst eighteen of the Cannibals Boats, which according to their custom had been a Man-stealing, and now were so hardy, that setting upon the _Spanish_ Ship, they suddenly clapt him aboard with their _Canoos_ on all sides; but being beaten back by the terror of their Guns, they soon retir’d: yet the _Spaniards_ took one of the Boats with two Men, all the rest saving themselves by swimming. One of the two Men lay bound Hand and Foot, who told them, that he was to have been kill’d the next day and eaten, as he saw his Companions, with whose Flesh they banquetting kept a jovial Feast. _Nigno_ unbinding the Prisoner, gave him leave to do what he pleas’d with the taken Cannibal, who falling upon him, cudgel’d and whipp’d him to death. [Sidenote: Strange Salt.] Then _Nigno_ in his Way to _Curiana_ touch’d upon the Coast of _Paria_, where he found a strange kind of Salt, which the Sea in tempestuous Weather casts on the Shore, which afterwards hardens by the Sun. This Salt must be taken up before any Rain fall, else it melts and soaks away into the Ground; yet sometimes grows so hard as a Stone, insomuch that they make Pots and other Vessels of it; which the _Parians_ barter for foreign Commodities. [Sidenote: Strange Corps.] _Nigno_ not making here any stay, return’d a second time to _Curiana_, where he spent twenty days in pleasant Pastimes, being Lodg’d in a Noble-mans House, at whose Door was fix’d a Cannibals Head, as a Trophy of his Victory. He saw there also the dead Bodies of divers eminent Persons set drying at a Fire, so hardned to be set amongst their Idols. [Sidenote: _Nigno_ put in Prison.] [Sidenote: Cruel dealings in _Curiana_.] At length _Nigno_ set Sail homewards, and carried with him an invaluable Treasure in Pearls to _Spain_: but by the way fell out with his Sea-men, because he kept most of the Purchase to himself, and would not give them their shares, nay more than that, kept back the fifth part from the King; whereupon being complain’d of by _Ferdinando de Vega_, Governor of _Gallicia_, he was put in Prison, and at last sent to the Court, where the Pearls were declared free Prize, because _Nigno_ had barter’d for them at _Curiana_, contrary to the Kings Orders, not to touch at any Coast, within fifty Leagues of what _Columbus_ had discover’d. But since he had no way regarded those Commands to preserve that Pearl-Trade, King _Ferdinand_ sent Governors to _Curiana_, who in his Name should look after, and employ Men for the catching the Pearl-Oysters. These, accompanied with a considerable number of Soldiers, besides six Monks, forc’d the Inhabitants to furnish them with abundance of Pearl: which oppression grew to such a heighth, that one Morning a great Party of them conspiring together, fell suddenly upon them, most of them being massacred: after they had a while insultingly triumphed over the dead Bodies, and finish’d, as they thought, their good work (feasting on their Flesh at a joyful Banquet) those few that escap’d Sail’d to the Island _Dominic_, the Governor of which _Didacus Columbus_, Son to the famous _Christopher_, being incens’d, immediately sent Captain _Ocampo_ with three hundred Men to _Curiana_; where in his first fury, without distinction of Sex or Age, he slew all he met with. But because they themselves could not follow the rich Oyster-catching, he spar’d some for that purpose, whom he commanded to build twenty five little Houses, or Hovels, on the Shore, which he call’d _New Toledo_. After this they went on afresh in their Pearl-fishing. [Illustration] SECT. V. _The Voyage of_ Vincent Agnes Pinzon. The first of _December, Anno 1499._ _Vincent Pinzon_ set Sail with four Vessels out of the Haven _Palos_: he had been Commander of a Ship under _Columbus_ in his first Expedition, by which means he got great experience in Navigation. When he came a little beyond the _Hesperides_, he was surpris’d by a great Storm, which in three days drove him before a plain Coast; where Landing, he found nothing but the Footsteps of Men; and in the night he saw great Fires, such as are generally made in Camps; about day-break twenty _Spaniards_ march’d thither, whom thirty two Men, arm’d with Bowes and Arrows, made ready to encounter; but as they approached, the _Spaniards_ proffer’d them Peace, but they refused all Composition; yet having faced one another a while, they retreated without fighting. [Sidenote: _Pinzon_’s strange Fight.] [Sidenote: A remarkable Beast.] After this _Pinzon_ discover’d a wide, but shallow River; where Landing, on a Hill he met a great company of _Americans_: He, to invite them to Trade, threw them a Shell; in return for which they cast him a lump of Gold; which when the _Spaniard_ went to take up they all fell upon him; and indeed he could not have defended himself long, had not some of his Company quickly come in to his speedy rescue, which occasion’d a bloody Conflict, wherein several _Spaniards_ were wounded, eight kill’d, and one of their small Boats sunk; for the _Americans_ fought so valiantly, that they pursu’d the _Spanish_ Ships into the Sea. _Pinzon_ being at last freed of these Assailants, got into a fresh-water Sea, caus’d by the confluence of many Rivers falling in there: from hence he got sight of the _Parian_ Coast, and with admiration beheld a Tree which sixteen Men could not compass: Between these Trees he saw as strange a Monster, the foremost part resembling a Fox, the hinder a Monkey, the Feet were like a Mans, with Ears like an Owl; under whose Belly hung a great Bag, in which it carry’d the Young, which they drop not, nor forsake till they can feed themselves. _Pinzon_ caught one of them with three Young, which died in the Voyage, but the Dam he presented alive in _Granada_ to the King. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Great Storm.] This Captain having Sail’d six hundred Leagues along the _Parian_ Coast, in a great Tempest two of his Carvils in his view were overset, their Keels turn’d upward; the third driven from her Anchor, and the fourth so shaken, and full of Leaks, that ready to sink they ran her ashore to save their lives; and though he escaped himself the danger of drowning, then being ashore, yet he was no ways freed from far greater inconveniences; for he saw nothing but death either for want of Provisions, or barbarousness of the Inhabitants: whereupon they resolv’d to free themselves of their miseries by self-slaughter, killing one another; but some better advised to spend their Lives like _Christians_ upon the unbelieving Salvages: Whilst they were in this desperate condition, the Storm ceased, and Providence presented their safety, the Ship driving in before the Wind; at which every one taking fresh courage, they mended the two shatter’d Ships as well as they could; wherein venturing to Sea, and setting Sail, they came on the last of _September, Anno 1500._ into the _Spanish_ Haven _Palos_. SECT. VI. _The Expedition of_ Americus Vesputius. _Americus Vesputius_ a _Florentine_, Commanded four Ships, fitted out at King _Ferdinand_’s Charge, set Sail the twentieth of _May, Anno 1497._ and refreshing at the _Canaries_, from thence he steer’d to _Paria_; where he so much gain’d upon the Inhabitants, that for Pins, Bells, Looking-glasses, and other Trifles, they daily brought aboard in Barter great store of Gold, the best of Merchandise. [Sidenote: The manner of the Inhabitants in _Paria_.] [Sidenote: Their strange Customs.] These People, both Men and Women go stark naked, not so much as covering their _Pudenda_; their Complexion swarthy; they shave off all their Hair, onely some Women leave a Tuft on their Heads. From their Faces, being broad and flat, one may judge them to be deriv’d from _Tartary_; they much exceed the _Europeans_ in Running and Swimming, insomuch that the Women oftentimes without any Boats, or floating pieces of Timber, venture two or three Leagues into the Sea; they have so great skill in Shooting, that they exceed almost all other Nations, having Arrows headed with sharp Fish-bones; they also use Lances and Clubs. The Women follow the Men in the Wars, and serve in stead of Horses to carry Ammunition and other Necessaries; to which Labor they are so us’d, that they will bear on their Shoulders forty, nay fifty Leagues together, such Luggage, as three _Spaniards_ are scarce able to lift from the Ground. They acknowledge no Commander or Superior either in Wars or Government; they keep up old Feuds, fighting with an inveterate hatred against their Neighbors, upon antient scores and revenges, still kept in memory of their Relations slain in former Battels, and also still creating fresh animosities upon their Losses in later Engagements. Their Language is smooth and pleasing, being spoken with a kind of lisping, and absolutely different from the neighboring Nations. When they eat they sit upon the Ground, and sleeping lie in Hammocks, each end whereof being fastned to a Post; underneath they kindle a Fire; over them they hang Fish-nets and Hooks, Fish-baskets and _Calabashes_. When they have occasion to ease Nature by evacuation, they retire into some private Place; but the Women think it no immodesty to make Water, even in the presence of strange Men. They observe not single Matrimony; for every Man takes as many Women as he pleases, under bonds of Wedlock such and so sleight, that he turns them off at his pleasure: and Women take the same liberty in casheering their Husbands when not pleasing them. They bring forth Children with little or no pain, and wash them in a River so soon as born; which done they return to their usual work and business. When they are incens’d against their Husbands, they revenge themselves by poysoning their Children. Their Houses are built in the fashion of a House-clock, with a Roof rais’d from the Wall upon four Pillars like the Bell, and cover’d with Palm-Leaves; some of which are so big, that they afford room for six hundred Men: every seventh or eighth year they remove, because (as they say) the Air is oftentimes infected by Mens Breaths, by their long continuance in one place. Their Riches consist in Feathers of divers colours, Strings of Fish-bones intermingled with green and white Beads, with which they adorn their Heads, Arms, Legs, Ears, and Cheeks: Gold and Pearls they make little account of; and as to Trade and Commerce with other People, they know not what belongs to it. Their greatest Friendship consists in prostituting their Daughters or Wives to one another. Their Dead they bury in moist Grounds, and put with them both Meat and Drink into the Graves: When any Person grows very weak by lingring Sickness, they carry the Diseased into a neighboring Wood, where they lay him in a Silk Hammock, tied between two Trees; then dancing the whole day about him, at night they set Bread and Water enough by him to last four days, and then departing look no more after him, who thus neglected seldom escape: but if so it happen that one recover, all his Relations for the future honour him as a god. When any one falls into a Fever, his Friends immediately bathe him in cold Water, and afterwards set him before a great Fire, then drive him before them till he falls down almost breathless, and at last put him to Bed. They neither Let blood in the Arms nor Feet, but in their Sides and Calves of their Legs. Sometime they fast four days together, which they suppose a great means to preserve their Health. Their Bread consists of a sort of Fruit call’d _Jucha_, _Chambi_, or _Igname_. Lastly, no Lyon devours his Prey with more voracious eagerness, than they their taken Enemies. [Sidenote: A very strange Village built on Poles.] [Sidenote: Strange Fight.] _Vesputius_ being fully inform’d concerning the Situation of _Paria_, weighed Anchor, and on the sixth day after entred a convenient Harbor, where going ashore, he found twenty Houses built in the middle of a Lake on great Posts: every House had a Draw-bridge, over which they pass’d from one to the other. So soon as the Inhabitants set eye on the _Spaniards_, they immediately drew up their Bridges: yet some of them in twelve little _Canoos_ came towards the _Spanish_ Ships, but amaz’d to see their Looms so big, durst not, though hal’d with signs, to come aboard, but hasted away to a high Mountain; yet seem’d to signifie that they would return, as indeed they did, bringing sixteen Maids along with them, of which they put four into a _Spanish_ Boat, themselves in the interim rowing between the Ships from one to another, shewing all tokens of friendship, when on a sudden a Company of old Women came running to the Shore, and tearing the Hair from their Heads, made a terrible noise and exclamation, expressing the greatest sorrow they could possible: whereupon the four _Indian_ Maids suddenly leap’d over-board, and the Men shot abundance of Arrows out of their Boats at the Ships; nay, some of them swimming under Water, endeavor’d to sink the Cock-boats which were made fast behind their Ships. Upon this sudden Onset the _Spaniards_ making use of their Guns, quickly lessen’d the number of the Assailants, insomuch that they fled to the Shore; yet five of them being overtaken, were carry’d Prisoners aboard. _Vesputius_ observing these their misdemeaning Carriages, judg’d it no way convenient to stay any longer among such barbarous and deceitful Salvages: but having weighed Anchor, and Sail’d eighty Leagues along the Coast, he ran into another convenient Haven, whose Shore swarm’d with People, which on a sudden running away, hid themselves in a neighboring Wood. [Sidenote: Serpents strangely prepar’d for Food.] Here the _Spaniards_ Landing were amazed, when in their Huts they saw Snakes and Serpents roasting before a Fire, whereof one had Wings, and another whose Mouth was tied together with a Rope, stared with open eyes in a frightful manner. Here they left several Trifles to entice the fled Natives to correspond with them. And this their Design prov’d successful; for the next day the _Americans_ came aboard without the least fear, and offer’d to shew their hospitable kindness to the _Spaniards_, if they pleas’d to travel three days Journey with them up into the Countrey, telling them, they had onely rais’d those few Huts by the Sea-side for a small time whilst they Fish’d in those Parts. [Sidenote: The remarkable reception of twenty three _Spaniards_.] About twenty of the _Spaniards_ well Arm’d resolv’d to undertake the Journey; and travelling over Hills, Dales, and Rivers, they came at last into a Village consisting of nine of the foremention’d Houses, but mightily peopled, where they were in a wonderful manner received by their glad welcomes, by Dancing, Singing, Hunting, and other joyful Acclamations, presenting their Wives and Daughters, as the chiefest part of their hospitality, to caress the Strangers at their pleasure. The news was no sooner spread, but the adjacent Villages came in throngs to gaze upon, and salute the Strangers, inviting them also to their Towns. The _Spaniards_ taking it in good part, spent nine days among them, highly treated with all manner of jollities, but especially at their choice with the varieties of _Venus_: from thence then returning to their Fleet, accompanied with thousands of the Natives, every one carrying Presents to the Admiral _Vesputius_; of whom as many as they could at once receive, they entertaining aboard, then dismiss’d them, and admitted others; but the Guns going off, they suddenly leap’d from the Decks, and div’d like Ducks under Water: But afterwards being inform’d, that such thunder-claps were sent them from Heaven to destroy their Enemies, they were somewhat better satisfi’d, and call’d the _Spaniards_, _Charabi_, that is, _Wise Men_. [Sidenote: A cruel Fight with the Cannibals.] This Island lying in the _Mexican_ Bay, in twenty Degrees of Northern Latitude, _Vesputius_ left on his Starboard, and Sail’d along a Meandring Coast (which he always kept in sight) eight hundred and sixty Leagues, and at last entred a Haven, the like whereof he had not seen before. Here he spent a Moneth in repairing his Ships, to which the Inhabitants freely gave their assistance; and among other things complain’d, that a salvage People came yearly thither from an Island about a hundred Leagues distant, who fell upon them with horrible rage, and whomsoever they took they eat, but first inflicted all manner of tortures upon them, sparing none, but together murthering aged People and sucking Infants; wherefore they crav’d assistance to be reveng’d, which if the _Spaniards_ would grant, they would follow the Fleet with their Boats. _Vesputius_ promis’d his aid to destroy such a blood-thirsty People; and to assure them that he would perform his Word, he order’d seven of them to go in _Canoos_ before and shew them the Way. On the seventh day they came to an Anchor before the Island _Hy_, where the Shore was guarded with naked Men, whose Bodies being strong and brawny, were painted, and their Arms, Legs, and Head, adorn’d with divers colour’d Plumes, having not onely offensive Weapons, as Bowes, Arrows, and Launces, but also defensive, huge Targets, and square Shields. So soon as they judg’d the approaching _Spaniards_ to be within reach, they shot a great flight of Arrows at them; but _Vesputius_ lying close along the Shore with his Ships, fir’d upon them with Chain-shot, which did great execution: yet notwithstanding about forty _Spaniards_ leaping ashore out of their Boats, found themselves in no small danger; for the Cannibals upon the sound of Horns flocking together, so press’d upon them that they were forc’d to lay aside their Guns, and fall to Blows, and had not timely assistance come to them, they had undoubtedly been all slain: two hours the Victory was doubtful on whose side it would fall; yet at last the Cannibals quitting the Field, left the _Spaniards_ Victors; who the next day pursu’d their gotten Victory with such success, that they drove their Enemies before them, burnt their Villages and Boats, and carry’d two hundred and two and twenty of them Prisoners to _Spain_, where they safely arriv’d the 15. of _November, Anno 1498._ [Sidenote: _Vesputius_ Second Expedition.] This good success so encourag’d _Vesputius_, that having stay’d scarce seven Moneths ashore, he obtaining the Command over six Ships, with which he set Sail from _Cadiz_, and touching upon the _Canaries_, Steer’d from thence Southerly; and having Sail’d five hundred Leagues, he discover’d a Countrey overflow’d and made Marishy by great Rivers, and abounding with Trees, but saw no sign of any Inhabitants; yet not long after, coming before an Island, he took a Boat with two Prisoners, newly guelt, and sent as a Present to feast the _Cannibals_, which refus’d to Treat on any other account whatsoever; wherefore he Sail’d eighty Leagues forward along the Shore of an unknown Island, where he Barter’d for some Gold, and got five hundred Pearls for one single Shell; these Pearls the Inhabitants said were not found there, but taken from their Neighboring Enemies, which liv’d Westward, and had abundance of them. [Sidenote: Strange constitution of a salvage people.] Nothing worthy of remark happen’d in this Voyage, onely the strange constitutions of a wild People, living on a barren Isle, deserve to be mention’d. About their Necks hung two hollow Vessels, the one full of white stamp’d Worts, and Herbs; and the other, full of Grass, which they greedily cram’d into their Mouths, feeding like Cattel; then a Stick wetted with Spittle, they put into the bruis’d Herbs, taking upon the end of it, as upon the point of a Knife, some of the bruis’d to their Mouths, which (as if chawing the Cud) turning therein, then taking out again, and strowing more of the same Herbs out of the Vessel upon it, swallow’d it down. No fresh Water was to be had amongst them, but what they gather’d from the Dew in great Leaves: Neither had they any Houses, but dwelt under great Trees, and fed on dry’d Fish. [Sidenote: Strange adventure of nine _Spaniards_, meeting with great Giants.] The next remark in this Voyage, was the discovery of an Island not far from the former, where he found the Footsteps of a Gigantick People, upon which nine _Spaniards_ went a League to search the Countrey, where they saw five great Huts, standing in a spacious Valley, and in them two old, and three young Women, each of them being twice as tall as an ordinary Man: The old ones invited the _Spaniards_ to eat, who when they were sat down, consulting how they might take and carry one of these Giantesses to _Spain_, there to shew her for Money, thirty six Giants came in to them, (never did the Sun shine on a more terrible People) which so amaz’d the _Spaniards_, that their Hair seem’d to stand an end at the fear thereof: Every Giant was arm’d with a Bow and Arrows, and a Club: They wondering at the nine strangers, stood talking very earnestly one to another, which gave the _Spaniards_ time to think of making their escape; some judg’d it convenient to discharge their Guns upon them, and in the Smoke to run away; others thought, that it would be better to take a milder course, which they all agreed on; and taking their leave, went out of the Hut, but were follow’d by the Giants, who kept a Stones cast behind them, and went faster or slower, as the _Spaniards_ slacken’d or mended their pace; who at last getting to the Shore, and from thence into their Boats, they suddenly put off; but the Giants then pursu’d them with eager speed, all of them leaping into the Water, and Swimming, shot abundance of Arrows after them; but frighted by the Thunder of two great Guns that were discharged from the Ships, return’d ashore, and fled into the neighboring Hills. [Sidenote: Description of the Pearl-Oysters.] [Sidenote: _Vesputius_ third Expedition.] _Vesputius_ at last began to consider of returning home, his Provisions beginning to grow scarce, and his Sea-men faint, having continu’d in the Equinoctial heats a whole year; wherefore he directed his course towards _Spain_, in his Voyage, driving along the Coast an advantagious Trade, by bartering Shells and Glass for Pearls. The Inhabitants presented him with Oysters, of which some inclos’d one hundred and thirty Pearls; when they attain to their full growth, they fall out of the Shells themselves, but those that stick, decay. So upon the tenth of _November_, the Fleet came safe to an Anchor before _Cadiz_. After which, _Vesputius_ retired to _Sevil_, with intent to settle himself there, but he had not long repos’d, when _Emanuel_ King of _Portugal_ sent for him to _Lisbon_, and gave him the Command of three Ships, to discover new Countreys; between the _Canaries_ and _Africa_, they pass’d thorow so many Fishes (not unlike a Bream) that in an hours time they loaded their Boats with them; this Fish hath a round thin Scale, sharp Teeth, Stones in their Brains or Foreheads, a sharp pointed Heart, a Bladder full of Wind, red Tail and Fins, feeds on Sea Weeds, Gurnets and Oysters, and is of a delicious Taste. [Sidenote: Cruel deed of some _Indian_ Women.] From thence, five degrees Southward of the Equinox, he found a naked People on the top of a high Rock, that beckon’d the _Spaniards_ to come towards them; upon which, two of them resolv’d to venture thither, having order not to stay at the most above five days: The first incounter they had was of some Women, who offer’d their bodies to prostitution; but a Youth, as if affrighted with some sudden danger, came running amongst them, whom, whilst they stood gazing upon, and wondering at, an old Woman with a great Club, running down the Hill overtook, and knock’d him down dead upon the ground; which done, the Women that were making Court to the _Spaniards_, took him by the Heels, and dragg’d up the Hill, where soon after they saw him chop’d in pieces, Broyl’d, and eaten: They also made signs to the _Spaniards_, that they would devour them also in the same manner. The Shore was crouded with Men, which showr’d upon them several flights of Arrows; wherefore they thought it best to Weigh Anchor, so taking Aboard their two Men, and having Sail’d 150. Leagues, they got sight of the Coast of _Brasile_, along which he Sail’d Southerly to fifty two Degrees, where three _Brasilians_ came Aboard of their own accord, and were easily perswaded to go with him to _Portugal_; but the Weather growing very bad, and the Cold intollerable, the Storms swelling the Waves into the bigness of Mountains, _Vesputius_ left the Coast _des Patagones_, and the _Streights_, afterwards call’d _Magellan_, behind him, burnt one of his Ships before _Cape Sierra Leona_, and brought two safe to _Lisbon_. [Sidenote: _Vesputius_ fourth Expedition.] [Sidenote: Sea-Spiders, and Dragons.] His fourth Expedition happen’d, _May 10. Anno 1503._ at which time he Steer’d directly with six Sail to _Sierra Leona_, and approaching the Coast, could not come to an Anchor, because of the strong eddying Currents: Three Degrees beyond the Equinox appear’d a rising Island, two Leagues long, and one broad, destitute of Inhabitants; his best Ship being six hundred Tun, split here against a Rock, and nothing of her was saved, but the Sea-men: But _Vesputius_ Rowing ashore with a Boat, found a convenient Haven, with abundance of sweet Water, high Trees, Sea-Spiders, and horrible Dragons, which have a sharp Head, round fiery Eyes, and wide Mouths, Wings not unlike a Bats, a speckled Breast, curl’d Tail, blew Back, and two Bags like a drawn Satchel Triangular, were under their Bellies: No less strange are the Sea-Spiders, by their hard Feet, long upper Teeth, two long Sheers or Pinchers, and double Belly; between the Head and the Belly lies a black Skin, with which they darken the Water; when any one goes to take them in the night, they make a great shadow; they feed on Fish, the Female lays little white Eggs, not unlike ordinary Hail-stones. [Illustration] _Vesputius_ having left this desolate Isle, three hundred Leagues a Stern, enter’d a Haven, to which he gave the name of St. _Abdy_, where he stay’d two Months, expecting the return of those which he had sent into the Countrey; but seeing it in vain to wait any longer, he proceeded on his Journey, and Sailing in between the _Abrelhos_, in the River _Curubabo_, he built a strong Fort, Garrison’d it with twenty four Men, twelve pieces of Ordnance, and Provisions for six Moneths: Five Moneths _Vesputius_ had spent in the building this Castle; when he return’d home with one Ship, laden with _Brasill_ Wood, where approaching _Lisbon_, beyond all expectation, the Inhabitants of the City ran to Congratulate his happy return. And from this _Americus Vesputius_, the _New World_ is to this day call’d _America_. SECT. VII. _The Expedition of_ Alphonso, Fogeda, Diego Nicuesa, Ancisus, _and_ Roderick Colmenares. [Sidenote: Wonderful Tree on _Codego_.] _Americus Vesputius_ was scarce fitted out in _Lisbon_, when _Fogeda_ set Sail with three hundred Men from _Beata_, the chiefest Haven of _Hispaniola_, to the Island _Codego_, inhabited by Naked People, but of comely Personage, and withal expert and most excellent Archers: Here he found a very strange Tree, which bears a Fruit not unpleasing to the Palate, yet deadly Poyson, and besides, whoever chances to sleep under their shadow, loose both their understanding and Eye-sight, and never attain to their former Sences, except they take some _Opiates_, as dangerous, and so by long sleep, recover. [Sidenote: _Fogedo_’s cruelty and destruction.] [Sidenote: Famine.] [Sidenote: Strange accident.] [Sidenote: _Ancisus_ escapes great danger.] [Sidenote: _Colmenares_ Expedition.] [Sidenote: His strange reception.] Here _Fogeda_ set upon a poor Village near the Sea-side, where without mercy he put them all to the Sword, except a few Youths which were onely saved, that they might inform _Fogeda_, what was become of the slain and taken _Spaniards_; Who told him, that according to their Custom, they had Roasted the dead, and also their living Prisoners, and feasted on their Flesh. Here having burnt the Houses, and sifting the Ashes, _Nicuesa_ found some Gold. But now they began to be distress’d for Provisions; for prevention of which, _Nicuesa_ had given order to _Ancisus_, Marshal in _Hispaniola_, that he should follow with a Ship of Victual, for the Army to _Codega_. But he being kept back by inconveniencies, most of the _Spaniards_ were famish’d, so that the three hundred Men which _Codega_ brought from _Hispaniola_, were reduced to sixty. And he was already under-Sail to _Hispaniola_, when _Ancisus_ Anchor’d in the Haven of _Codegoos_, and sent some Men ashore to mend his Boat, and fetch fresh Water, which whilst they were doing, the Natives came flocking about them: Three days they fac’d one another, using no Hostility, when at last a _Spaniard_ that understood the _Codegan_ Tongue, adventuring to fetch Water, he was immediately encompassed; when speaking to them, and informing them in their own Language, That he was none of _Fogedas_ or _Nicuesas_ People, which not long since had committed so great slaughter, they left him, and the rather, because he told them, that _Ancisus_ would take revenge on them, if they did any wrong to him. Thus quieted, they brought all sorts of Provisions Aboard. Mean while, _Ancisus_ Sail’d to the Main Continent _Uraba_, where in the Mouth of a Haven he ran his Vessel aground, which was bilg’d; the Sea-men taking some Arms along with them, sav’d their lives by swimming ashore; where, their first sustenance they found was store of Peaches and Cherries, which was a great refreshment in those hot Countreys, but yet had undoubtedly been starv’d, but that in searching the Wood for Fruits, they found Wild-Swine, which preserv’d their lives; yet they were not free from apparent danger, having to deal with a Salvage People, into whose hands they were so unfortunately cast by Shipwrack; however _Ancisus_ set a good face on the business, marching with a hundred Men up into the Countrey, where some of the _Urabanners_ from an ambuscade unawares, with their Arrows wounded several of his Men, hereupon they retreated to the Shore of the River _Daria_, whither also they had brought the small Boats, sav’d from the Wreck; where whilst they were in consultation how to return to _Hispaniola_, the Inhabitants having muster’d themselves, and making a Body of five hundred Men, set upon them, who after a sharp Conflict, made them retreat, and at last to flie, whom _Ancisus_ pursuing, found in a Thicket of Canes or Reeds a great Treasure of Gold. Mean while, _Nicuesa_ Sail’d to the plentiful Golden Countrey _Veragua_ with three Ships, of which he lost two, the one Commanded by _Lupus de Olana_, and the other by _Peter Umbria Olana_, which was stranded in the River _Veragua_, which gives name to the whole Island, but he built a new _Carvil_, whereas that of _Lupus Olana_ was bilg’d among the Rocks. Little better success had _Nicuesa_, whose Ship over-turning with a Tempest, he with a few of his Men made land upon _Veragua_, where he rang’d up and down in a miserable condition, on a barren, and in a manner desolate Shore seventy days: All that time, finding no other Food than Wild Roots, who wandring up and down, at last met with _Olana_, a little before cast away on the same Isle, whom he secur’d, because he presum’d to usurp the Title, and be prime Commander of that Countrey. Upon which, the _Spaniards_ being divided, some for _Ancisus_, some for _Olana_, the difference more and more encreasing, would not be reconcil’d, till the Famine over-powering, master’d both, so that not being able to handle their Arms, the Salvages flew them at their pleasure, by this means in a short time, of seven hundred eighty five, remain’d scarce ninety; yet did not all this misery work any thing upon the ambitious humor of _Vasques Nunnez_, who rebelling against _Ancisus_, split that small remainder of Men, and with the help of those he had drawn over to his Party, made himself Governor of _Uraba_, not possible to be long enjoy’d without speedy supply, which soon after they receiv’d; for _Colmenares_ Sailing from _Hispaniola_ with Provisions, arriv’d there the 15. of _October, Anno 1510_. having been toss’d twenty three days at Sea; then making into the River _Gaira_, to furnish himself with fresh Water, he lost forty seven Men; for whilst they were filling their Casks, seven hundred of the Salvages came down upon them, and with their Poyson’d Arrows wounded and kill’d most of them. _Colmenares_ came in a good time to the remainder under _Ancisus_ Command, being in danger of death for want of Provisions, and finding the factions that were among them about Superiority, he thought it fit, consulting with some of the chiefest of them, to find out _Nicuesa_, who was indeed the Governor that had the Grant from the King: This agreed, _Colmenares_ went to search, and at last lighted upon him, building a Fortress against the assaults of the Enemies on the Promontory. _Mormor_, he was glad to find him, but griev’d to see the misery and hardship they endur’d, most of his Men being kill’d, partly by the excessive Heats, partly by Famine, and partly by the cruelty of the Natives, so that he had onely sixty remaining, and those many of them also sick and weak. _Colmenares_ having deliver’d his Message, _Nicuesa_ broke up his Quarters, and sleighting the Fort, went with him, but both himself and his Men were oppos’d from Landing by _Nunnez_; wherefore _Nicuesa_ was necessitated to Steer for _Hispaniola_; whom, or what became of him was never known. _Nunnez_ having thus quitted himself of _Nicuesa_, and now, more than ever, wanting Provision, he resolv’d to take out his own Commission at large, and setting up for himself, make no discrimination of Persons, _Spaniards_, or Natives, but to make out his Fortune. And first, he fell upon _Careta_ King of _Coita_, whom he took Prisoner, Plundering him of all his Treasure and Provisions; yet this sufficed not long, for soon after, King _Poncha_ invading _Careta_, _Nunnez_ took hold of that opportunity, and pretending to assist _Careta_, being well recruited with his Forces, set upon _Poncha_, who immediately fled, and left all to the spoil of his Enemies. [Sidenote: Remarkable Pallace of King _Comogrus_.] This News so amaz’d _Comogrus_, another King, that he proffer’d Peace; whereupon _Nunnez_ going thither, was nobly entertain’d in his Palace, being one hundred and fifty Paces long, and eighty broad, the Floors Pav’d with Stone, and the Roofs Vaulted, his Cellars were stor’d with Wine, made of the Root _Jucca_, _Ages_, and _Mais_; the Privy-Chamber was hung round with dead bodies, Mummy’d artificially with Lent Fires, and were the Corpses of _Comogrus_ Ancestors, and others of the Royal Blood, and nearest Relations, of whom some dy’d at least four hundred years before; each of these fasten’d by Cordage made of Reeds, were Habited in Cotton, richly adorn’d with Pearls and Gold. Mean while, a Hurricane happening, terrible with Thunder and Lightning, and hideous Gusts, swell’d and so enrag’d the Sea, that breaking its bounds, over-running, drown’d the whole Champain; thus the hopes of a fruitful Harvest being utterly lost, they suffer’d under a great Famine. [Sidenote: _Nunnez_ Exploits.] The _Spaniards_ which Encamp’d near the River _Daria_, on _Uraba_, perceiving this, and knowing they had no manner of supply from _Hispaniola_, and having already Pillag’d the Neighboring Kings, that they had nothing left. _Nunnez_ marching thirty Leagues up the River, Plunder’d the Village, of which _Daibaiba_ was King, where he found an unvaluable quantity of Gold, but little or no Provision. Here were many Flitter Mice, or Bats, bigger than Turtle Doves, whose biting was mortal, unless immediately wash’d with Salt Water, according to the information of the Prisoners. Now as _Nunnez Uraba_ Pillag’d towards the South, so did _Colmenares_, setting up also for himself, make prize of all, to the East with sixty Men, Rowing against the Stream up the River _Daria_, above twelve Leagues, where he found in several Villages and Hamlets, and at King _Turvi_’s Palace, abundance, both of Provision and Gold; from thence he March’d to the mighty Province _Abenamchei_, which though making some resistance, at last they subdu’d. [Sidenote: A strange Pallace built on Trees.] [Sidenote: Turning the low Land into a Sea.] [Sidenote: A Plot on the _Spaniards_, strangely discover’d.] And the neighboring King _Abibeiba_ narrowly escap’d the like fortune, whose Pallace was built on the tops of Trees, Plash’d, and Pleited together, Timber Beams lying athwart; necessity forcing them to choose such high Habitations, partly to avoid the Inundations of Rivers, swoln above their bounds by sudden and almost assiduous Showres from the Mountains; and partly, to be free from the excursions of sculking Robbers; also being better able to defend themselves in these Castles in the Air, and also secur’d by their heighth from their Shot, being above the reach of their _Indian_ Arrows: The bodies of the Trees downwards, upon which the Houses are built, are generally twenty four Fathom thick, so that they cannot easily be cut down, nor fired; but _Colmenares_ against these, as they suppos’d, impregnable Forts, having made a Gallery with several great Hurdles, set his Men to work under that safeguard, with Axes on the Tree whereon _Abibeiba_’s House stood, who seeing his imminent danger, wondring at this new manner of Storming, came down, promising to furnish him with Gold out of the neighboring Mountains, notwithstanding it would be with the danger of his Life; because the _Cannibals_ generally kill those that adventur’d to dig in the Mines: To this promise, _Colmenares_ hearken’d, and having set him at liberty, for the performance, he in stead thereof, on the contrary, stirr’d up, and joyn’d with all the Conquer’d Kings, to destroy him and his Men: Nor were they slack to have executed their design, five thousand of them being already drawn together at the Village _Tirichi_, the appointed place of Rendezvous, and so privately carry’d, that undoubtedly it had been effected, if not happily discover’d by this accident. _Nunnez_, amongst his other Slavesses, had one exceeding beautiful, on which he was much Enamour’d, and she likewise seem’d to bear as great an affection towards him, which she manifested, by declaring the secret to _Nunnez_ which her Brother had imparted to her, being an intended general Massacre the night following, that so she might the better make her escape the day before; yet so much she prefer’d the safety of her Lover, before the liberty of her Native Countrey, that she discover’d the Plot. _Nunnez_ not sleeping on this advice, on a sudden set so fiercely upon the Conspirators, that he utterly broke their design; yet the Feuds and Contests for Superiority still continu’d amongst them, which look’d with so bad a Face to the ruine of all, that news thereof arriving in _Spain_, it was judg’d fit to send for _Colmenares_, and _John Quicedo_ to the Court, there to render an account of all their Transactions, Both going Aboard a small Vessel, were by Storm driven on the Coast of _Cuba_, where they were inform’d from a Prisoner, that _Valdivia_ and _Zamudio_, driven ashore by Shipwrack, and not able to defend themselves, were surpriz’d by the Natives, kill’d and eaten; that _Fogeda_ driven up and down along the Coast, had lost most of his People by hunger, and other hardship, and himself with much ado getting to _Hispaniola_, dy’d as soon as Landed of the Wound which he receiv’d by a Poysonous Arrow, near the River _Daria_. [Sidenote: _Ancisus_ Voyage.] [Sidenote: A Temple dedicated to the Virgin _Mary_ on the Island _Cuba_.] But much happier was _Ancisus_, who soon after _Fogeda_ coming to _Cuba_, found a King, who suffer’d himself to be Christen’d, and call’d _Commendator_; and building a Church, Consecrated it to the Virgin _Mary_; in it he erected an Image of Clay, resembling a Woman, which he clothed in a Cotton Garment; round about were plac’d Pots with Meat and Water, according to their old Idolatrous fashion, otherwise, they believ’d their Idols would devour the Souls of the Dead, and this, though Christians, they did not forget. Nay further, when he went to War, he carry’d the Image of the Virgin _Mary_ with him in the Front of his Army, often saying, _Ave Maria_; and this was the end of that Voyage: But afterwards _Ancisus_ complain’d against _Vascus Nunnez_ in the _Spanish_ Court, where he receiv’d a Sentence very prejudicial to him. _Colmenares_ and _Quicedo_ had also Audience there, whereupon matters being settled, a firm Government was establish’d in _Uraba_. SECT. VIII. Peter Arias _his Expedition, and remarkable Passages of_ Vascus Nunnez. [Sidenote: _Nicuesa_ suffers hunger.] _Peter Arias_ Knight, accompany’d with his Wife, _Elizabeth Boadilla_, set Sail _Anno 1514._ but surpriz’d by a violent Storm, lost two Ships, and return’d to _Spain_, yet not long after began his Voyage afresh, notwithstanding he had lately had such bad success, and heard of the great hardship which _Nicuesa_ suffer’d, having not onely kept himself alive a considerable time by feeding on flesh of Dogs, and other such like Creatures; a great Frog being sold in _Veragua_ for a lump of Gold. [Sidenote: Dogs us’d in the Wars.] [Sidenote: Sodomy horribly punish’d.] [Sidenote: _Nunnez_ first discovers the South Sea.] [Sidenote: Is in great danger on the South-Sea.] But _Vaschus Nunnez_ inform’d of _Arias_ arrival, the chief Governor of _Uraba_, afterwards call’d _New Andaluzia_, minding to inrich himself before he should depose him, and hearing that several Gold Mines lay Southward from _Uraba_, march’d thither with a hundred and ninety Men, thorow great Rivers, Thickets, and Woods full of Wild Beasts, deep Vallies, and broad Rivers, not without many hazards and difficulties. In the Mountainous Territory _Quarequan_, the Inhabitants ingag’d him valiantly, with Bows, Arrows, Clubs, Woodden Swords, Pikes and Launces, but frighted with the meer report of their Musquets, like flocks of wild Fowl, dissipated and fled, but not so fast, but that six hundred of them fell by the hands of the _Spaniards_, or were worry’d by their Dogs, train’d up on purpose for the _American_ Wars. Soon after, coming into the Palace, there sate his Brother dress’d up in Womens Apparel, whom the King kept to abuse, as if a Concubine, whereof _Nunnez_ being inform’d, in detestation of Sodomy, set the Dogs upon him, who suddenly tore him in pieces. Amongst the slain were found several _Negroes_, which suffering Shipwrack had been cast on the _American_ Shore, and maintain’d a continual War with the _Quaraquanen_, so that it seem’d the _Blacks_ which were found dead amongst them were their Slaves: Yet _Nunnez_ was forc’d to leave a considerable number of his Men here, who being half starv’d, and quite tired out, were not able to follow him; but with the remaining party he march’d on, and at last came to the high Mountains, from whence he saw the great South-Sea, and going thither, was met by King _Chiapes_, leading an Army of thirty thousand Men, which great Body stood not long to make resistance, being terrifi’d with the Vollyes of Shot, whose Report the ecchoing Valleys presented to their Ears, double and trebble: And that which most amaz’d and disanimated them in the rout, were the Dogs, who fiercely pursu’d and seiz’d the flyers, tearing away great morsels of Flesh. After the Battel, the Conqueror proffer’d Peace, which was agreed on, upon the delivery of several great Presents of Gold. After that, _Chiapes_ the King, accompany’d with _Nunnez_ the _Spanish_ Commander, and March’d with him over a broad River to _Coquera_, where at first some Forces made resistance, but were routed; whereupon, they also suddenly struck up a Peace, upon conditions, that the Prince, nam’d also _Coquera_, should return him a great quantity of Gold. Here he found a handsome Bay running up in crooked Reaches, above sixty Leagues, which _Nunnez_ call’d St. _Michael_, being sprinkled with Islands, and treacherous with hidden Rocks. There _Nunnez_, (though disswaded by _Chiapes_, because he knew the South-Sea at that time being the three last Moneths of the Year, was exceeding turbulent, that no Vessel could hardly live in it, yet) ventur’d with nine _Indian_ Boats, and eighty Men from the Shore into the _Offin_; where, notwithstanding the high rolling of the Waves, he got to an uninhabited Island, on which, being necessitated to stay a night, the Tide flow’d so much, according to the property of the South-Sea, that the highest Ground thereon, lay almost cover’d with Water, every one of the _Spaniards_ having enough to do to save themselves from being wash’d away. Day approaching, discover’d a second inconveniency, for the _Indian_ _Canoos_ either were extremely Leaky, or else so shatter’d, that they were unfit for service; yet notwithstanding all this, they ventur’d to return, rather choosing to be devour’d in the Waves, than die of that hunger, whose misery they had sufficiently tasted, during the small time they had been out. Not long after, _Nunnez_ Conquer’d the King _Tamaccus_ in a Field Battel, who thereupon purchas’d his Peace with great Presents of Gold and Pearl. He also shew’d the _Spaniards_ an Island, whose spiring tops were seen from the Main Land, which so abounded in Pearls, that in no place were either more or fairer to be found: But the King who liv’d on it was exceeding powerful. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Manner of Fishing for Pearls.] _Nunnez_ immediately resolv’d to Sail thither, notwithstanding it was the middle of _October_, when the South-East Winds make such a turbulent and hollow Sea, as many times wash’d away Trees and pieces of Rocks: Besides, the Weather was more terrible, by continual Lightning and great Thunder-Claps; the Nights very cold, the Days exceeding hot; yet all these difficulties could not prevail, for _Nunnez_ would not stay to expect fairer Weather, but went on, and coming thither, he saw how the _Indians_ Fish for Pearls, which was Diving for Oysters; but the Weather being rough and foul, they durst not venture for the best which lay far from the Shore. [Sidenote: _Nunnez_ returns.] But _Nunnez_ leaving his sick and weary’d Men with _Chiapes_, March’d quite another way back than he came; and crossing a great River, was receiv’d by Prince _Teaocha_, who furnish’d him with Gold, Pearls, Provisions, and Guides, which carry’d his Luggage and Goods. [Sidenote: _Pacra_ a tyrannous King, his horrible death.] _Pacra_, a great Oppressor of all his Neighbors, hearing of the approach of _Nunnez_, fled, but terrifi’d with threats, return’d with three other Princes, which were all so Deform’d, that more horrible Monsters were never seen, scarce any part about them resembling those of a Man: The Guides which _Teaocha_ had provided for the _Spaniard_ desir’d that he might be put to Death, for the Cruelties which he had long committed; whose Request being granted, he with the other three Princes, were given as a Breakfast to the _Spanish_ Doggs. Mean while, the _Spaniards_ were in danger to have perish’d for want of Water; yet at last, in a Thicket of Brambles, they found a small Brook, but none of the _Indians_ durst venture to go to it, for fear of Tygers, and other Wild Beasts; relating, That the Tygers took many people in the nights out of their Huts, if they were not careful in making fast their Doors. [Sidenote: Strange relations of a Tyger.] _John Ledesma_ had himself eaten part of a Tyger, which for six Moneths together, had every night feasted on Mans flesh, or Beasts, which they caught in this manner: In the Path along which he pass’d, coming out of his Den to seek for Prey, a deep Pit was digg’d, and cover’d very sleightly on the top, into which the Tyger fell; yet though taken, so fiercely withstood the Pikes, Darts, and Stones thrown at him, that every one was amaz’d to see the fury of the Beast. After that they sought for the Female, but found onely two young ones without a Dam, which taking along with them, they put Iron Collars about their Necks, intending to carry them to _Spain_; but seeing no likelyhood of breeding them up, they brought them back again, purposing to fetch them away when grown somewhat older, and accordingly coming afterwards to look for them, they found the Den empty, so that it was supposed they had been devour’d by their Dam. [Sidenote: _Nunnez_ further Journey into the Countrey, very remarkable.] In the Province of _Bononiama_, the _Spaniards_ inrich’d themselves with Chains, and Breast-Plates of Gold, which in great plenty hung on the Walls in every House: At the River _Comogrus_, they discharg’d _Teaocha_’s Guides, and made use of _Cotog_ and _Ciuriza_, two Governors of a barren Tract of Land, full of Hills and Mountains, which they left on their right Hand, and wandred three days over a _Morasse_, in which they often sunk to their Knees. In all these Travels, Victual was so scarce that they were much weaken’d by their wants; and though they took fresh courage when they got footing on King _Buchebua_’s Jurisdiction, yet they found nothing but empty Huts; and the like in the Countrey of _Chiorisus_, both having a little before been pillag’d by their more powerful neighboring Enemies. But although they could not furnish _Nunnez_ with Provisions, they presented him with weighty Ingots of Gold: but this rich Metal not able to purchase the least morsel of Bread, drove them into a great strait; and indeed they had without doubt been all famished, had not _Pocchorosa_, another King, fed them forty days together with stamp’d Roots. Thus refresh’d, and instigated by _Pocchorosa_, they broke by night in _Tubunama_’s Palace, and took him Prisoner with eighty Concubines, who fearing to be put to death, gave an incredible Treasure of Gold to purchase his Ransom. _Nunnez_ thus enriched came at last to his People which he had left on the River _Daria_, where two Ships sent from _Hispaniola_ rode at an Anchor. [Sidenote: _Peter Arias_ his Voyage, and Fight in the Haven _St. Martha_.] Whilst things were thus carry’d in _America_, _Peter Arias_ Sail’d with fifteen Ships, Mann’d with fifteen hundred Men, to _New Andalusia_, by the Islands _Martinina_, _Guadalupe_, and _Galanta_, all in _America_: a considerable time he Sail’d through the Sea overgrown with Weeds. Afterwards anchoring in the Haven _St. Martha_, he receiv’d a great repulse from the Natives, who no ways daunted at the bigness of the Ships, waded up to their Breasts in the Sea, and shot many great flights of poisonous Arrows at the _Spaniards_, or whom two being wounded immediately died. _Arias_ sending some of his Men ashore, they found many Boats lying full of Nets, made of tough Weeds, and Ropes pleited of Rushes. In the Haven _St. Martha_, being three Leagues wide, are abundance of Fish, which may be seen under Water twenty Fathom deep. But now the _Spaniards_ that were ashore breaking into the Houses, and taking Women and Children Prisoners, the _Americans_ prepar’d for another Fight, which at the beginning was very fierce; but at last they were forc’d to quit the Field. [Sidenote: Strange Houses and Houshold-stuff.] Their Houses and Furniture in them are worthy of observation: their Cielings being cover’d with Shells strung on small Thred, which make a pleasing noise, when mov’d by the least breath of Wind. The Walls are hung with fine Stuffs, woven full of Imagery, as Cranes, Lyons, Tygers, and some Figures of Men; the Floors are cover’d with parti-colour’d Mats, made of Sea-Reeds, and several tough Roots; and their Carpets beset with Pearl add also a great beauty to their Rooms. In the Valleys the _Spaniards_ found several precious Jems, as Saphires, Jasper, Emeralds, and great pieces of Amber, and in some Huts, Baskets, and Chests full of dry’d Locusts, and Crabs. Here also grows the Root _Yuca_, as also on several other _West-Indian_ Coasts, of which they make their best Bread, and is call’d in _Hispaniola_ and _Angola_, _Yuca_; by the _Brasilians_, _Mandiba_ and _Mandihoka_; by the _Mexicans_, _Quauhcamotli_: it grows with a thick or midling Body, according to the fruitfulness or barrenness of the Soil; the Leaves are like those of a Tulip, and have small Flowers and Seed, but no ways useful; the Root, not unlike Horse-Raddish, hath a milky Juice, which swells it exceedingly; the Sprigs, which in the eighth and tenth Moneth shoot out of the Root, serve for new Plants; and if at any time it happen, that either by a moist Season, or by Worms, or Pismires, the Plant is spoil’d, then it occasions such an inconvenience amongst the Inhabitants, that half of them in that year die of Famine. [Sidenote: What use the _Americans_ make of the Root _Mandihoka_.] The Leaves of the _Mandihoka_ serve them for Sallads. Out of the Root, which they lay soaking five days in Water, they make Meal, which the _Portuguese_ call _Farina fresca_, but the _Americans_, _Vipeba_. Moreover, _Mandihoka_ serves them to make Bread, which they bake over the Fire; and mix’d with Water, Pepper, and the Flour _Nhambi_, makes an excellent Pudding, by them call’d _Mingaude Carima_, no less pleasing to the taste than wholsom Food: and with Orange-Flour, Water, and Sugar, it makes that excellent Julep _Tipioca_. The Powder of _Mandihoka_ put into a Wound, cures very speedily. It is very pleasant to see the _Americans_ eat this Bread; for they toss it by handfuls at a pretty distance from their Mouthes without letting fall the least Crum. Lastly, it requires great art and trouble to make the _Mandihoka_ fit for Bread: first they must peel off the Shell, then put into a Mill turn’d by two _Indians_ it falls, being Ground, into a square Trough. The Juice proceeding from it is mortal, if eaten when raw, but wholsom if boil’d: the Meal they put in a Press, and when all the moisture is drawn from it, they strow it in an Oven to dry. But the wild _Mandihoka_, by those that live on the Sea-shore call’d _Cuacu Mandiiba_, and up in the Countrey, _Cuquacucuremia_, differs both in shape and goodness from the first. [Illustration] [Sidenote: _Arias_’s Exploits in _New Andalusia_.] But to return to our matter: _Arias_ coming to an Anchor in the River _Daria_, was cheerfully receiv’d by _Nunnez_; his first Business which he undertook was the building of three Forts, to secure the Passages to the _South Sea_; to which purpose _Joannes Aiora_ received the Command over four hundred Workmen. Moreover, _Arias_ took great dislike in the Place call’d _Maria Antiqua_, which the _Spaniards_ were forc’d by necessity first to Plant in: it lay in a deep Valley between high Mountains, so that it not onely wanted the benefit of the rising and setting of the Sun, but when in or near the Meridian, it shin’d down upon them, and scorch’d all their Plants, and the tepifi’d Morassy Grounds about the same infected the Air, and the Water which they took up to wash their Houses, immediately bred Frogs, the River _Daria_ overflow’d the Grounds with his muddy Water three Leagues distance from the Sea; the Passage thither also was very troublesom, because of the uneven Ways; and besides, the Tygers and Lyons devour’d many People and Cattel. [Sidenote: A strange Accident.] The first Night that _Arias_ lay in _Maria Antiqua_, the House wherein his Chirurgion Lodg’d was fir’d with Lightning, who running out with his Wife, being both scorched by the Flames, saw a very great Crocodile, which snatching up his Dog ran away with him towards the River. [Sidenote: Remarkable Trees.] The neighboring Territory _Coiba_ produced Trees, whose Timber us’d for Shipping never breeds Worms, because of its acerbity; whereas on the contrary, all other Vessels in that Countrey are very subject to that inconvenience. Here also grow those famous Plague-Trees, whose very Leaves, if but falling upon one, are like Gods Arrows, mortal, and immediately kill, unless the Place whereon they light be straightway anointed with fasting Spittle: and the _Coibensers_ say, that they know another poysonous Wood, which they use to destroy their Enemies withall. [Sidenote: Remarkable Journey of _Moralis_ to the _South Sea_.] Whilst _Arias_ was consulting about the beforemention’d Affairs, he sent several Comanders to divers Places, to take a survey, and give him an account of their Return of all their Discoveries. Amongst others _Gasper Moralis_ was order’d to march towards the _South Sea_, to confirm the Peace which _Nunnez_ had begun with the Kings _Chiapes_ and _Tumaccus_; and chiefly to go to the Pearl-Island with sixty Men, which _Nunnez_ was forc’d to leave, being stress’d by tempestuous Weather. _Chiapes_ and _Tumaccus_ were according to their promise, to prepare an Army ready for his assistance against his coming; which indeed they perform’d, so that they wanted nothing but Vessels, for the biggest of theirs could not carry above three or four Men; yet they undertaking their Enterprise, Landed seventy Men on the Island; upon which the Inhabitants under their Kings Conduct ran to meet the new Landed Forces, and crying out aloud _Guazzavara_, _Guazzavara_, they ran in amongst the Musqueteers with their woodden Swords; but the report of the Guns, mix’d with Fire, Smoak, and Bullets, soon amaz’d them: the King flying, thought by alarm to raise all the Islanders; but they being inform’d, that no People whatsoever could withstand the fire-spitting People, made Articles of agreement with _Moralis_, and Condition’d to deliver a hundred pound weight of the choicest Pearls to the use of the King of _Castile_; and as a testimony of his Friendship he was Christen’d _Peter Arias_, from the Governors Name of _New Andalusia_. [Sidenote: Strange Pearl.] How great the Treasure was which _Moralis_ brought from the Pearl Island may appear by one of the Pearls, for which Pope _Leo_ the tenth gave forty four thousand _Ducats_ to a _Venetian_ Merchant. [Sidenote: _Solisius_ his miserable end.] Amongst the Commanders which were sent out by _Arias_, was also _Johannes Solisius_, who Sailing six hundred Leagues Southerly, along the Coast of the _Caribbies_, beyond _Cape St. Augustine_, he found the Inhabitants of _Pernambuck_ to be no less cruel than subtile; for being invited ashore, he with some of his Men Row’d thither, where no sooner Landing, but were all kill’d and eaten in the sight of the other Sea-men aboard; at which being amaz’d they weighed Anchor, and Sail’d away, Freighted onely with _Brasile_ Wood, to _Cadiz_. Also in an unhappy hour did _Johannes Pontæus_ put some of his Laundresses ashore on the Island _Guadalupa_, to wash some Linnen for him; for the Islanders coming on a sudden out of the Woods surpriz’d them, and forthwith killing without mercy, cut them in pieces, and carbonadoing, eat their broil’d Flesh hot from the Coals, while _Gonsalus Badajocius_ Sail’d with eighty Men Westerly, and having gone sixty Leagues he went ashore, and spent some days in vain, to Court the _Americans_ to a friendly correspondency; which whilst he was doing, he was recruited with fifty Men from _Daria_, Commanded by _Lodowick Mercado_: so both agreed together to travel over the Mountains to the _South Sea_. [Sidenote: Strange Slaves.] [Sidenote: Great Booty.] The Governor _Juana_, whose Jurisdictions abound in Gold, flying with most part of his Treasure, was never heard of, onely they took some of his Slaves, whose Faces were strangely Carv’d with sharp Fish-bones, the Wounds fill’d with red and black Powder, which so discolour’d the Flesh that it could never be got out. After that they travell’d through the Wilderness five days together, being onely met by some _Indians_ carrying _Maiz_, who signifi’d to them, that King _Periguete_ liv’d along the Sea-shore, and up into the Countrey the blind _Totonoga_; of both which they got an unvaluable Treasure of Gold. Amongst other Pieces of that rich Metal was one which weighed two pound. _Taracura_ rais’d in this Expedition eighteen thousand weight of Gold: and little less did they take out of the Territories belonging to the Princes _Pananome_, _Tabor_, _Cheru_, and _Scoria_: The Prisoners serv’d them in stead of Horses, they not being able to carry all the Gold themselves, the meanest Soldier having above three thousand Pounds _Sterling_ for his share. [Sidenote: Destruction of the _Spaniards_.] They were now got to _Panza_’s Kingdom, not without leaving sad remarks, of their avarice and cruelties. When _Pariza_ surrounding this Party thus loaden with Gold, Charged so fiercely, that at the first Assault seventy of them were slain; those few that escap’d brought the tidings of their sad misfortune to _Peter Arias_. Amongst those that escaping return’d, was _Franciscus Delapuente_, whose observations concerning catching Parrots and wild Fowl, we will briefly relate, the digression being but short. [Sidenote: A strange way to catch Parrots.] The _Indian_ where the Parrots are most frequent climbs into a Tree, and chattering like them, with his Voice imitating their Notes, allures his fellow-prater to draw near, and suffer him to take them in his Hands. But more belongs to the taking of wild Fowl, as Geese, Ducks, Swans, and the like: From the bottom of their standing Pools and Lakes in that Countrey grow Weeds, which spreading upon the Water ripen, and rotting breed Water-Flies, Spiders, and Frogs, upon which the Fowls feed. Near these Pools in the Gardens grow Cabbages as high as Trees, which often dropping into the Water serve the Birds both for Nests and Food: but the skilful Fowler finds it his best way to take one of these Cabbages, and making it hollow in the middle, claps it on his Head like a Helmet, then going into the Water up to his Chin, and passing softly along in such manner, that nothing is seen but the floating Cabbage, and coming near the Birds, he takes them one after another by the Legs, and puts them into a Bag ty’d about his middle for that purpose. [Sidenote: Strange Bird _Toucan_.] But what is more worthy observation is the _American_ Bird _Toucan Xochitenachate_, having a fleshy Bill, like a Mouth full of Teeth, which continually opens and shuts to draw Breath, having no Nostrils; the Back, Neck, and Wings, are black, the Breast yellow like Gold, the Belly and end of the Tail of a Vermillion colour. [Sidenote: Evacuated Pepper.] This Bird _Toucan_ feeds for the most part on Pepper, which tarries not long with them, but muted almost as soon as swallowed: which Pepper thus evacuated the Natives value above their common, because the unpleasing sharp acidity, or biting quality is thereby much mitigated. But to return: Whilst the Expeditions under the Command of _Peter Arias_ had such bad success, _Arias_ himself and _Vaschus Nunnez_ hapned to clash: _Nun__nez_, who since his discovery of the _South Sea_ was held in some repute at the _Spanish_ Court, had built four Ships on the Shore of the same Ocean, to make farther inspections along the Coasts thereof: but being commanded to come to _Arias_ the Governor, he was committed to Prison, and accused of high Treason, as if he had intentions to settle himself in _Peru_, and absolutely to have left _Daria_: all which though he disown’d, and utterly deni’d with great protestations when brought to a Trial, and no witness to affirm the contrary, yet was by _Arias_’s special Order Beheaded. Not long after which _Lupus Sosa_, Governor of the _Canary_ Islands, was sent to succeed _Arias_ in _New Andalusia_. SECT. IX. _The Expeditions of_ Francisco Fernandez, Lupus Caizedus, Christophero Morantes, Bernardo Igniguez, _and_ Juan Grisalva. [Sidenote: Original of the Name _Jucatan_.] _Fernandez_, _Caizedus_, and _Morantes_, antient Planters in _Cuba_, obtain’d a Licence from the Governor _Diego Velasques_, to Rig out three Ships with a hundred and ten Men to discover new Lands. _Velasques_ thought fit to add one more to their number upon the Kings account; which Trust he committed to _Igniguez_: all of them consulted with the experienc’d Navigator _Antonio Alamines_. Six days the Fleet had been at Sea, when they discover’d Land, which by a mistake was call’d _Jucatan_, because the Inhabitants being ask’d what was the Name of the Coast, answer’d _Jucatan_; which, as the _Spaniards_ were afterwards inform’d, signifi’d, _We understand you not_. [Sidenote: Stately City.] Upon the Shore they found a City, whose Stone Buildings, with stately Fronts and high Turrets, shew’d most magnificently. _Fernandez_ call’d this City for its wonderful bigness, _Cairo_, from the _Egyptian_ Metropolis, famous through the World. [Sidenote: _Campechium_ a City.] [Sidenote: Remarkable Images, and strange Stage.] The _Spaniards_ coming to Land were courteously receiv’d, and conducted into the City; the neatness of whose Market-places, and exactness of their Streets, they beheld with admiration; as also the costly Stuff Garments both of Men and Women: but their wonder increas’d when they beheld very artificial Crosses, concerning which upon inquiry they related, That a Man more glorious than the Sun, being busie in erecting the Crosses, died. But these People, though so courteous and civil at first, seem’d in few days to be weary of their company; which the _Spaniards_ observing sounded a Retreat, and Sailing Westerly, proceeded on their intended Design, and soon after anchor’d before _Campechium_; the King of which conducted _Fernandez_ and _Morantes_, with some others, into the City, consisting of three thousand Houses. In his Palace they were entertain’d with all manner of Fowl roasted: After which refreshment they survey’d the City; in which, amongst other curious Buildings, was a high, but square Theatre of Marble, on which stood the Image of a Man, on all corners assaulted by four wild Beasts, which were of a no less strange than horrible shape. Not far from this Image they saw a Serpent fashion’d up of Chalk and little Stones, whose coyl’d up Tail was forty seven Foot long, and of a proportionable thickness. This Serpent, sprinkled with Mens Blood yet warm, seem’d to prey upon a Marble Lyon: both these were inclos’d with a Stone Rail, within which Malefactors were daily executed. Bloody Bows and Arrows broke in small pieces lay between the Bones and dead Bodies. _Igniguez_ call’d the King _Lazarus_, because he discover’d his Countrey on _St. Lazarus_’s Day. [Illustration] [Sidenote: _Moscobo_ a City.] [Sidenote: _Spaniards_ slain.] [Sidenote: Mighty Island _Cosumella_.] Making no long stay here, they return’d to their Ship, and weighing Anchor Sail’d fifty Leagues more Westerly, the Fleet got sight of _Moscobo_, in the Territory _Aguanil_, whose King assaulted the _Spaniards_ with so much fury, that two and twenty of them were slain, and scarce one escap’d which was not wounded: wherefore they return’d with bad success to _Cuba_. Yet _Velasques_ no ways discourag’d thereat, not long after fitted out four Vessels, Manning them with three hundred Men under the Command of _Juan Grisalva_ and _Alamines_; who having Sail’d seventy Leagues, discover’d the fruitful Island _Cosumella_; along whose Shore stood fair Stone Edifices, intermix’d with Temples, whose Steeples appear’d above the Houses. _Grisalva_ being led up into one of these Steeples by a Priest, saw at a distance off at Sea the Territory _Jucatan_: and in the Place where they were, there were spacious Halls, full of Marble and Stone Images of deformed Men and Beasts, which with a murmuring noise, and burning of incense they religiously worship. The _Spaniards_ call’d this Island _Sancta Cruz_. [Sidenote: _Spaniards_ fight with the _Campechiums_.] Sailing from hence they directed their Course to _Campechium_, where the year before they had been so civilly treated; where arriving, and without any fear coming ashore, they found the _Campechiums_ quite of another humor than they were the former year, telling them, They would not suffer any Strangers to be amongst them; and placing a burning Torch between theirs and the _Spanish_ Forces, threatned, That if they did not depart in quiet, they would force them: which accordingly they endeavor’d, making a fierce Onset upon the _Spaniards_; who being now come under their Battlements, when they saw their advantage, pour’d what they had kept as a reserve, whole Volleys of small Shot amongst them; which struck so much terror, that they all ran away, shifting for themselves, and crowding into the City. The _Spaniards_ found afterwards _Jucatan_ to be but a _Peninsula_, and came before a River which fell with so strong a Current into the _Mexican Sea_, that it retain’d its sweetness for the space of two Leagues. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Strange passages on _Tabasco_.] This River, flowing out of the Province _Tabasco_, was call’d _Grisalva_: upon whose Banks stood above six thousand _Americans_; and in the Water appear’d a hundred Boats with Armed Men, which Row’d aboard the _Spanish_ Ships. The Interpreters of _Cuba_, whose Language agrees for the most part with the _Tabascers_, prevail’d so much, that the King himself came to the chief Commander _Grisalva_, and bartering with him, gave him as much Gold as his Iron Helmet, Breastplate, and other Armor weighed. [Sidenote: _Sacrifice Island._] Soon after they Landed on the _Island of Sacrifice_, so call’d from the horrid Sacrifices which the Inhabitants made daily. [Sidenote: Exceeding horrible Sacrifices.] Amongst other strange Images, there flood a great Lyon of Marble, seeming almost decollated with a great gash; into which Wound they pour’d humane Blood warm, which was receiv’d into a Stone Trough set for that purpose underneath; then the Figure of a Man Carv’d in Alabaster, bowing forward, as if looking into the Trough upon the Blood. Those which were sacrificed were Prisoners taken on the neighboring Coasts, whom bringing before their Idols, they ripping open make no farther inspection, but onely to whip out the Heart; with which having smear’d the Lips of their Idols, they throw it into the Fire: the Heads and Corps they let lie unburi’d; whose fleshy parts, especially their Cheeks, they feast upon. [Sidenote: _Maiden-Island._] The next Island is inhabited by Women; to which Annually their Neighbors go, pretending merry kindness, but upon amorous inclinations: and Plough and Till their Ground, and Weed their Gardens. [Sidenote: _Pontenchianum_ a City.] The chief City of _Tabasco_ is _Pontenchianum_, and contains above fifteen hundred Houses, all built of Stone hardned with baking after their manner; which in some Places, besides their Turrets and Temples, yield a pleasant Prospect at a great distance. Fourteen eminent Towns more did the _Spaniards_ also see in _Tabasco_. [Sidenote: Strange making of Obligations.] When in conversing with them they observ’d their strange manner of Sealing their Bargains and Contracts one with another, they were amaz’d, for not using Wax, they usually Seal’d their Compacts with their own Blood, commonly drawn with a Stone Knife, either from their Tongue, Hand, or Arms. Their Priests live single, and if found to be Unchast, are punisht with Death. An Adulteress is sold for a Slave: Unmarry’d People may not frequently converse with Marry’d: Thirty five days in the year makes their _Lent_, in which they abstain not onely from Flesh, but Fish also, feeding onely upon Roots and Herbs. In this place the _Spaniards_ were receiv’d in great state, Canopy’d with green Palm-Tree-Branches, and in like manner conducted aboard again, not without many Presents, _viz._ the Effigies of a Man curiously wrought in Gold, wherewith they return’d to _Cuba_. SECT. IXA. _The Expedition of_ Ferdinand Magaglian, _commonly call’d_ Magellane. [Sidenote: Bishop _Casis_ sad effect concerning the Pearl catching.] The Bishop _Bartholomew de Casis_, living a considerable time in _Hispaniola_, in the City _Dominico_, being inform’d of the abundance of Pearls which were caught before _Cubagua_, and the unsupportable cruelty of the _Spaniards_ there under _Ocampus_, us’d against the Inhabitants, went to _Spain_, with a design to obtain of the Emperor _Charles the Fifth_, the Government over _Cumana_ and _Cubagua_, under pretence, to draw the ignorant Natives from their Idolatry, to _Christianity_; which his request was especially promoted by _William_ of _Nassaw_, the Emperors prime Favorite; so that having his Letters Patents granted to that purpose, he took Ship, and arriv’d with three hundred _Spanish_ Gentlemen of Quality in _Cumana_: And that they might have the greater respect shown to them there, they had each a Red Cross given them, such as the Knights of _Calatrava_ generally wear. Yet little did _Ocampus_, the old Governor of _Cumana_, regard either them or their Authority; for in stead of receiving and submitting, he kept the Bishop _de Casis_ out by force of Arms; who then made complaint to the _Vice-Roy_ of the _West-Indies_ in _Hispaniola_, and in the mean time, put his _Cargo_ into a new Store-house. But whilst he made his Addresses, _Ocampus_ having sufficiently inrich’d himself departed, which incourag’d the _Cumaners_, who already were incens’d, and weary of their former sufferings, to venture on a design, whereby they might revenge themselves of the _Spaniards_, which their undertaking prov’d so successful, that very few escap’d the Massacre: Of which, _de Casis_ being inform’d, and much discontented thereat, betook himself to a _Dominican_ Cloyster in _Hispaniola_. [Sidenote: Cruelty of _Castellio_ in _Cumana_.] Yet not long after, the _Cumaners_ paid dear for that slaughter, for one _Castellio_, though not without several Engagements, with various success, lasting forty days together, having at last utterly vanquish’d them, put to an ignominious Death, Hanging up seventy of their Princes, and to them of meaner quality, shewing as little mercy. [Sidenote: _Lampagnano_ discontented.] As little success had _Lodowick Lampagnano_, sent out by some _Spanish_ Merchants, with Letters Patents from the Emperor to Fish for Pearl, before the same _Cubagua_; to which purpose he carry’d peculiar Nets and other necessaries with him. But the _Cubaguan Spaniards_ unanimously withstood him; so that not being able to effect his design, overpower’d with a Melancholly Distemper that broke his Heart, he dy’d. [Sidenote: _Magellanus_ Expedition, how it happen’d.] In the interim, while these scarce considerable Voyages turn’d to so small account, _Ferdinand Magaglianus_ (for so _Peter Martyr_ calls him, and not _Magellanus_, which herein deserves to be credited, because they were intimately acquainted, and great friendship between them,) undertook to Sail round about the World; the occasion of which we will here relate at large: This _Magaglianus_, or _Magellanus_, a Gentleman of _Portugal_, having perform’d things of great importance for his King, in _Africa_, although with no less trouble than Charge, desir’d an addition of half a Ducket a Moneth added to his Annual Pension; an inconsiderable Sum to make a Request for, yet though so little, was as niggardly deny’d: Whereupon, highly incensed, he study’d no little revenge; to which effect, soon after an opportunity was presented, by means of _Franciscus Serranus_, who writ from _Ternata_ to him, that he should speedily come thither, which he soon after did upon this account: [Sidenote: Strange Giant.] Pope _Alexander_ the Sixth, having fixt Terminaries between the Kings of _Castile_ and _Portugal_, both busie at that time in discovering new Countreys, Order’d, That _Castile_ should possess all the Coasts lying to the West of the chief _Meridian_, and _Portugal_ to the East: By vertue of this partition, the rich Spicy _Molucca_ Islands fell absolutely to the _Portuguese_: Now _Magellanus_ perswaded _Charles the Fifth_, that they might be Sail’d to with a Westerly Course, and therefore belong’d to _Castile_; Which advice, _Charles the Fifth_ considering, and approving, Rigg’d out five Ships, with which _Magellanus_ set Sail from _Sevil_, the tenth of _August, Anno 1519._ five Moneths he ply’d up and down the Coast inhabited by the _Patagones_, where he found none but one single Person, or rather a Monster, a Giant ten Foot high, who coming Aboard his Ship, devour’d a great Hamper full of Biskets, and at one Draught drunk up nine Pottels of Water. He also saw several Trees which had been Hew’n with Axes, and Crosses made on the tops of them. Whilst he lay in that Harbor, which was call’d _St. Julian_, he Cashier’d his Vice-Admiral, _John Carthagena_, with his Father Confessor, and sparing their lives, set them ashore, and there left them to seek their Fortunes, though they had Conspir’d to Murther him. [Sidenote: _Straights_ of _Magellan_, how found.] _Magellanus_ from thence Sailing afterwards Southerly along _America_, to forty two Degrees Southern Latitude, was engag’d with the eddyings of a very strong Current, which driving one of the Ships into a Bay, split against a blind Rock, but the Men being sav’d in their Boat, were driven farther and farther into a Channel, between high and Snowy Mountains; whereupon he immediately judg’d (as the famous Negromancer _Roderick Talerus_ had often told him) that there was the Passage, through which the Northern Ocean flow’d into the Southern; wherefore he resolutely adventur’d to Sail into those _Sraights_, which in some places narrow, and in others broad, is an hundred and twenty Leagues long, and full of small Isles and dangerous Rocks. Whilst he still Sail’d on, the Ship call’d _Antonio_, Tacking about, return’d to _Cadiz_. But _Magellanus_ enter’d the great South-Sea with three Sail, on the 25. of _October_, where the Sea-men suffer’d extremely by excessive Heat, Drought, and Famine, three Moneths and twenty Days, without sight of Land: And now, their Shooes, and the Leather which cover’d their Shields, began also to grow scarce (which before had been counted a Dainty) when they discover’d two Islands lying two hundred Leagues distance one from another, yet both Desolate and Barren, wherefore they were call’d the _Unfortunate Isles_: After that, they came amongst a great number of Islands, whose Inhabitants were much inclin’d to Thievery; for which cause they Denominated them _Ladrones_, the chiefest Island call’d _Borneo_, hath two hundred fifty four Leagues in Circumference, whereon a Tree grows, whose Leaves when faln off, seem to be alive and creep like Worms. The King of this Island entertain’d the _Spaniards_ very courteously, two Elephants bringing his Presents to them on the Shore, out of a City consisting of twenty thousand Houses. [Sidenote: _Magellanus_ slain.] [Sidenote: _Spaniards_ murdered.] [Sidenote: An end of the Voyage about the world.] Near _Borneo_ are two lesser Islands, call’d, _Zubo_ and _Matan_; The King of _Zubo_ freely submitted himself to the _Spaniards_, and _Magellanus_ leaving his Fleet at Anchor in the Haven, went with his own and other _Indian_ Boats, and attended with some of the _Zubensers_ to _Matan_, where setting a Village on Fire, he carry’d great Riches from thence: This not satisfying, he resolv’d within eight days to set upon the Royal Head-City; but the King in his own Defence, Encountering with _Magellanus_, slew him, and seven _Spaniards_ more, besides twenty two dangerously wounded; those which escap’d by flight, got to _Zubo_, where being invited to Dinner by the King, they were all of them (in stead of a second Course) Murther’d at Table. The occasion of this was out of Revenge, because the _Spaniards_ had fall’n too foul upon their Women and Maids, Devirginating, and forcing them to their Pleasure, than which rudeness nothing was among them more Detestable. The Sea-men weakned by these Misfortunes, were necessitated to burn their third Ship, call’d, _St. Jago_; but Sailing to the _Molucco_ Islands with the other two, they Freighted them both with Cloves; with which the Ship _Trinitas_ Sail’d to _New-Spain_ through the South-Sea, and the _Victoria_, Commanded by _John Sebastian de Lano_ went the same way which the _Portuguese_ us’d, and so to St. _Lucar de Barrameda_, near _Sivile_, where he came to Anchor with his Ship and eighteen Men. SECT. X. Ferdinando Cortez _his Voyage_. [Sidenote: _Sottus_ cruelty.] Although several Expeditions of the _Spaniards_ to _America_ prov’d very unsuccessful at the first, yet they still undertook them afresh, and with renewing Courage: _Ferdinando Sottus_, though he Landed five hundred Men in _Florida_, yet brought no Treasure from thence, onely he cut off the Hands of fifteen Princes, because they would not discover their Mines of Gold. [Sidenote: Miserable end of _Narvaez_.] Yet far worse success had _Pamphilus Narvaez_, who lost both his Fleet and Men, saving onely ten out of six hundred, in the River _Palma_, and they also afterwards dy’d there, or eat one another to satisfie their raging Hunger. [Sidenote: _Cortez_ his Voyage.] [Sidenote: Remarkable delivery.] But much better was the fortune of _Ferdinando Cortez_, Sailing from _Spain_ to _America_, in the Year 1519. who having the Command given him over ten stout Ships, and three Frigats with five hundred Foot, and an additional Force of sixteen Horse, rais’d by the new _Spanish_ Inhabitants on Cuba; with which Forces Landing on the Island _Cozumella_, he prohibited Humane Sacrifice to their Idols, and Erected a Cross with the Image of the Virgin _Mary_, in one of their Temples, and releas’d _Hieronimus Aquilaris_, after a seven years Slavery, having suffer’d Shipwrack with _Valdivia_; at which time some that sav’d themselves in the Boat, were by the Current in thirty days driven to _Jucatan_, in which time seven dy’d of Hunger; the rest going ashore, were no sooner Landed, but Sacrific’d by the Natives to their Gods or _Zemes_. Among the six that remain’d, yet left alive, and to be offer’d after the same manner the next day, was this _Aquilaris_, who with his Companions, breaking Prison, in the following night fled to a Neighboring Prince their Enemy, and one that maintain’d a continual War against these _Cannibals_. [Sidenote: Strange Battel.] [Sidenote: _Potanchanum_, a City.] [Sidenote: _Colvacan_ Books, of what fashion, as also their Temples.] Here _Cortez_ sent Articles of Peace to _Taxmarus_ the King of the Countrey, but he sleighting his proffer, came down upon him into the Field with forty thousand Men, drawn from the City _Potanchanum_, which contain’d above twenty thousand Houses, all built of Stone: And indeed the _Spaniards_ had here seen their last day, had not _Cortez_ drawn by a seeming advantage the Enemies under his Canon, and sent his small Party of Horse to attend the motion of the Rear; when so soon as they had fir’d their Canon, making great Execution, the Front routed, and the Rear terrifi’d with the noise and smoke of the Guns, they also broke, being at the same instant Charg’d with the Horse, which were so terrible to them that never saw Horses, nor such Service on Horseback before, that in a short time the whole Body of so great an Army was utterly dissipated, and the triumphing Conquerors took possession of the empty City _Potanchanum_, where Solacing, they staid a whole Moneth. Then from hence they Sail’d to _Colvaca_, where, upon the request of the Natives, they settled a Colony. Amongst the Presents which were there given to the _Spaniards_, were some of their own Volumes, Books, whose Leaves were made of the innermost Rind of a Tree, and a kind of Paste, made of their Meal, glew’d together; the Characters stood at some distance one after another, rang’d like our _Christ-Cross Row_, or _A_, _B_, _C_. Here _Cortez_ was amaz’d to behold their stately Temples, the Floors whereof were cover’d with Embroyder’d Tapestry, beset with Precious Stones, to which great multitudes flock’d, being very zealous to perform their Devotions. When their Seed is put into the Ground, or come to its full growth, they offer young Children to their _Zemez_, richly Cloth’d, having been fatten’d some Weeks before: When they want Children they kill their Slaves, and in default of them, they pacifie them with Dogs. [Sidenote: Strange Sacrifices.] The _Victims_ that go to be Sacrific’d, they Worship with all Adoration, Bowing and Congying before them. [Sidenote: Strange Idol-Worship.] Their Zeal in this their Idol-Worship may appear from a strange Custom, observ’d by them when they enter their Temple, _viz._ they either draw Blood out of their Tongues, Lips, Ears, Breast, Knees, or Palm of their Hands, which they throw into the Air, supposing thereby to be pardon’d by their indulgent Gods. [Sidenote: _Zempoal_, a City.] In the City _Zempoal_, _Cortez_ found five Slaves, who being kept close Prisoners, were to be Sacrific’d the next day; but he releasing them, did upon the importunate request of the _Quines_, or Priests, and promises of great ransoms, and their telling of him that the _Zemez_ would spoil all their Seed and Plants that year, if they did not go on with these Offerings, restor’d the Prisoners again; who, though the enjoyments of all happinesses in the other World were promis’d them by their Priest, and great assurance given thereof; yet they were not forward, but return’d, unwilling to suffer, though by so gainful a Sacrifice. [Sidenote: _Zemez_ wonderful Idols.] At the _Zemez_ Feet hung abundance of Mens Bones bundled up together, and under them were Written the Names of their Enemies, whose Flesh had been either Sacrific’d or eaten. [Sidenote: _Cortez_ his Exploits.] Twelve Leagues beyond _Zempoal_, _Cortez_ built a new City near the River _Grisalva_, and call’d it _Vera Crux_, which _Diego Velasques_ resented so ill, it being done without his knowledge, that he petition’d the Council of _Cuba_ to give Sentence of Death against the Founder: But whilst _Cortez_ expected an answer from the Embassadors (which were sent to the _Spanish_ Court to give account of the necessity of building a City there) he travell’d eighty Leagues Westerly. The _Zempoalensers_ accompanied him in great Troops, hoping by that means to shake off the yoke of the mighty King _Montezuma_, against whom they were then design’d. _Cortez_ coming into the Territory of _Sincuchimalar_, was in the Name of _Montezuma_, by one of his Princes, courteously entertain’d in a great Village, scituate on a steep Mountain, without any Path or Way leading to it, but by two high Ladders. _Sincuchimalar_ lies surrounded with Hills, whose tops seem to touch the Clouds. Coming down from the Village, they travell’d through a barren and cold Valley, where they suffer’d such great Inconveniences by want of Provisions and Water, and exceeding coldness of the Weather, that many of them perish’d. After that, they ascended a pleasant Hill, on whose summit stood a Chappel, with a handsom Steeple, and hedg’d about with great heaps of Wood, brought thither by the Inhabitants for the use of their Sacrifices. At the foot of this Mountain was a fruitful Valley water’d by a pleasant River, on whose Banks a certain Prince nam’d _Cacataminus_ had a Palace, built of Stone, and containing many Rooms, and convenient Lodgings. Somewhat higher to the Land, appear’d more of the like Structures, which were all under _Montezuma_’s Jurisdiction; but the neighboring Countrey _Tlaxcalla_, whose Inhabitants were famous for their Valor, would never receive any Laws from _Montezuma_. [Sidenote: Remarkable War in _Tlaxcalla_.] _Cortez_ no sooner set footing in this Countrey, but he was set upon by a thousand of the Inhabitants, who at the first Assault kill’d two of the _Spanish_ Horse, yet after this bold Charge, the Assailants fled, and on the next day desir’d Peace; whereupon the _Spaniards_ march’d quietly into the Countrey, when a confus’d Company, or Forlorn-Hope, making a horrible Noise, set upon them; but after a slight Skirmish, they fled to their Main Body, which immediately drawing up, being at least a hundred thousand, hemm’d in the handful of _Spaniards_, and so were ready to swallow them, leaving them no Angle to escape at. Thus invironed, they were assailed on every side, fighting till Sun-set, and had undoubtedly been utterly destroy’d, had not _Cortez_ ply’d his six Pieces of Cannon, discharging continually Volley after Volley upon them; and though the Execution was very much, yet the Sound and report of their Ordinance was more terrible to them that were out of the reach of the Bullet, and made more to the gaining so great a Victory, Fear conquering more than Slaughter; so that by the Evening, despairing either of their Safety or better Fortune, the whole Army disbanding fled: But the pursuing Conquerors firing five of their Villages, remain’d Masters of the Field; yet they, though thus totally routed, taking fresh Courage (a wonderful thing!) reinforc’d them, and set upon the _Spanish_ Camp, with no less than 150000 Fighting Men: Yet notwithstanding so vast an Army, _Cortez_ so well order’d his small parcel of Men, and so valiantly led on upon all Advantages, that he in like manner defeated this, as they thought, Invincible Preparation. Thus flesh’d with so much Blood of the Natives, he raged every where, giving no Quarter where-ever he went. Mean while _Quesitangal_, a neighboring Prince, having also raised an Army with which he design’d, being assisted by darkness, craftily to fall into the _Spanish_ Quarters by Night, subtilly dissembling, sent Embassadors the day before, with several Presents, and Overtures of Peace, which indeed were onely Spies, to take notice where they might best break in upon them; which _Cortez_ mistrusting, and soon being inform’d of the whole Design, he cut off the Spies Hands, so sending them back to _Quesitangal_ with Defiance: Hereupon the _Indians_ immediately setting forward, took advantage of the ensuing Night, and with great fury fell upon the _Spaniards_, who preacquainted with the Design, were in so good a posture to receive them, that not able to endure such hot Service, they quickly retreated, and utterly gave over the Enterprize: But _Cortez_ as much encourag’d by these Victories, pursu’d them, and the same Night Storm’d _Tlaxcalla_, a City containing above twenty thousand Houses, which in few Hours he carried. This City was curiously built, of bak’d Stones, and a place of great Trade; insomuch that the Market-places swarm’d with Buyers and Sellers, bartering one with another all manner of Provisions, as Fish, Flesh, and Bread, also Plumes of Feathers, Pearls, imbroyder’d Tapestry, Chalk, Stones, Timber, and Herbs. Twenty days _Cortez_ staid here to refresh his Army, and then march’d to the neighboring City _Chiurutical_, with the Auxiliary Forces of the _Tlaxcallans_, to the number of above a hundred thousand; they told him, That the People of _Chiurutical_ had barricado’d up their Streets, laid upon the tops of their Houses great heaps of Stones, that their upper Rooms were cramm’d with Archers, and all things made ready both for Offence and Defence; which Advertisement he not much hearkned to, because he was conducted into the City with all their State-Formalities of Singing and Tabering upon their _Tamboes_, and every where courteously entertain’d. [Sidenote: A Plot strangely discover’d.] [Sidenote: Strange Martial Affairs.] Mean while _Montezuma_ had rais’d a great Army, which were in their advance, not onely to the defence of his Border, but to surprize them while they staid in that City, the Townsmen having invited him thither to their rescue and his own defence, had not the Plot been accidentally discover’d by a _Chirutecan_ Woman, who giving advice to one of her Friends that follow’d _Cortez_, that he should immediately make his escape, because that all the Strangers would be destroy’d within few Hours, who came and inform’d _Cortez_ thereof; whereupon he desir’d all the Magistrates of the City to come and speak with him, who no sooner entred the Hall where he was, but his Men by Command immediately shot them to death, which terrible Rumor spreading, and alarm’d with the report of the Executing Musquets, the City was suddenly in an Uproar, gathering thither Arm’d from all Places, and began a sharp Conflict, which lasted five Hours; but then wearied out, and despairing of Success, loosing their Courage, they desir’d a Cessation, and at last concluded Peace with the _Spaniards_. [Sidenote: Now _Mexico_.] This News of his discover’d Intention, so startled _Montezuma_, that he suppos’d it better to desist, and procure the Favor of _Cortez_ by Presents; wherefore he sent him 15000 Cotton Habits, trim’d up very richly, ten great Chargers of Gold, and some Vessels of Wine, desiring him for a while to forbear his Intentions of marching to _Tenustitan_ his Chief City, and that he would in the mean while treat with him for an Accommodation. But _Cortez_, though he accepted of the Presents, yet nevertheless held his Resolution of marching on. [Sidenote: Wonderful Mountain _Popocatepeque_.] [Sidenote: Resolution of two _Spaniards_.] Eight Leagues from _Tenustitan_ he saw the double-spired Mountain _Popocatepeque_, so call’d from the Smoke which continually ascends from its top; for _Popoca_ signifies _A Smoke_, and _Tepeque, A Mountain_. The Smoke rises upright, and with so much strength, that by the greatest Wind it deviates not one jot from mounting upwards in a direct Line, to whose forked Head ten _Spaniards_ resolv’d to climb; but having got scarce half way up, they were forc’d to return, the Ashes lying knee-deep; yet at last two more resolute conquer’d all those Difficulties, and got to the top, where the mouth of the Cave, as they guessed, measur’d four Miles in Circumference: The shaking of the Mountain, and roaring of the Flames, frequently bursting forth, so much terrified them, that they staid not long there; for, as we said, the Ground not onely trembled under them, but the Fiery Gulph ejected great Stones, which falling down on all sides of the Mountain, rolled to the bottom; and without doubt they had there perish’d, had they not speedily run to a hollow neighboring Hill, from whence they came at length to the rest of their Company, where they were admir’d by the _Indians_ for their undaunted Resolution, and presented with several rich Gifts. These _Indians_ had a Tradition, That for wicked Princes, and such as had not govern’d the People well, this was the _Tophet_ appointed for their Torments. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Strange Cities in _America_.] [Sidenote: A very strange Cawse-way.] _Cortez_ being got through the poor Territory of the _Guazazingers_, and having suffer’d great Cold upon the Mountains, discover’d _Amaquameca_, the chief City of the Province _Chialco_, seated in a great Lake, to which he row’d in a kind of Boats, by the Inhabitants call’d _Acales_. Passing from thence, he was courteously receiv’d in _Iztapalapa_, another City, which boasts above eight thousand Stone Buildings, besides admirable Palaces, with spacious Rooms, delightful Gardens, and Ponds full of Fish, and almost cover’d with Fowl; from whence a Wall or Cawse-way of a great breadth, that cross’d over both Land and Water, led from _Iztapalapa_ to _Tenustitan_. This Cawse-way hath many Bridges, which are drawn up in time of War, under which the Water runs out of a Salt Lake into a Fresh, that ebbs and flows, although lying between high Mountains, and seventy Leagues from the Sea. On both sides this Wall, being ten Leagues in length, appears three great Towns, _viz._ _Mesiqualisingo_, _Colvacana_, and _Vuichilabusco_, all Populous, and well-built. [Sidenote: How they make Salt.] _Colvacana_ is supplied by the Salt Lake, to its no small benefit and inriching; for the Water being by Pipes convey’d into the City, in all the Places and Cisterns for its reception makes a Scum, which being coagulated by the Sun, and after boyl’d, becomes Salt, with which they drive a great Trade; for no Salt being to be had in any place but here, all Foreign Merchants come thither for Supply. [Sidenote: Remarkable Passage of King _Montezuma_.] _Cortez_ being in his March within a League and a half of _Tenustitan_, _Montezuma_, preceded with a thousand of his Nobless, came to meet and salute him, all of them rather like Pilgrims, bare-footed, and congying, kissing their right Hands, with which they first kiss’d the Ground: After them appear’d _Montezuma_ himself, who put a Chain of Gold, imboss’d with Pearls, about _Cortez_ his Neck, and immediately conducted him to the City, where having entred, and being come into the Palace, _Montezuma_ plac’d _Cortez_ on a Golden Throne, and surrendred up his Right to his Catholick Majesty of _Spain_, in the presence of all his Peers, to their no small amazement. But whilst all things had a good face, and went on thus fairly beyond their expectations, _Cortez_ was inform’d, That King _Coalcopoca_ had a Design on the new City _Vera Crux_, and had treacherously murder’d two of the Garrison, and wounded two more: Whereupon _Cortez_ having such fair beginnings, who had swallow’d already in his Hopes the whole Empire and Wealth belonging to _Montezuma_, laid hold of this Occasion, pretending Treason, and breach of Contract; wherefore he put _Montezuma_ under Custody, notwithstanding he had clear’d himself of the Conspiracy, by bringing _Coalcopoca_, with his Sons, and fifteen of his Peers, Prisoners to _Tenustitan_, who by the command of _Cortez_ suffer’d a lingering death, being all burnt with Green Wood. But in vain did _Montezuma_ think to reconcile himself with _Cortez_, since all he did could render no manner of satisfaction; however he continu’d to oblige him by fresh Favors, whose Relation we will be more particular in, as meriting the same. [Illustration: Vetus MEXICO] [Sidenote: Description of the Royal City _Tenustitan_.] [Sidenote: _Cacaos_, what manner of Fruit.] [Sidenote: Stately Temple.] [Sidenote: Horrible Images.] _Montezuma_’s Grandees seem’d to be much discontented, because he had without the least resistance or consideration setled a handful of Strangers to domineer over his whole Dominions, by which his weakness and pusillanimity, he was now a Prisoner, like a common Malefactor, who had formerly govern’d so mighty Territories. Amongst several Princes which seem’d thus to be concern’d, was _Catumazin_ Governor of the Province _Hacolvacan_ who had he not been surpriz’d and attaqu’d the Night before by the information and discovery of _Montezuma_ himself, he would have hazarded the ruine of all _Cortez_ his Successes: But now Fortune still daily more smil’d, giving wonderful Advantages to the _Spaniards_; Silver and Gold continually flowing like Rivers from all Quarters, that their onely trouble and puzzle was where and how to dispose it: but yet for all this, they were not free from jealousie, that _Montezuma_’s Forces might swallow theirs, though he was secur’d; of which you may judge by the vastness of his Imperial City _Tenustitan_, seated in the Province of _Mexico_, where a Salt Lake mixes its Waters with a fresh River, both which in circumference contain, as we said, seventy Leagues, and distant from the Main Land five or six Miles; the Water about it continually cover’d with small Boats rowing up and down. It hath four Stone, besides DrawBridges in several Places, and strengthned with Gates no less artificial than costly, which lead from the City to the Main Land. The Fresh Water is convey’d through the Salt in a Wall’d Channel, out of which none may take up Water, except they pay Excise to the Kings Farmers. This City boasts above sixty thousand Houses, all divided into Islands, but joyn’d with great Wooden Bridges: The Market-place surrounded with Galleries, drives a quick and constant Trade, being always full of Buyers and Sellers. In every Street they have a publick Inn, in each of which they keep Ordinaries, wherein the Tables are stor’d with well-dress’d Flesh and Fish, not wanting plenty of Wine. Their Trades are divided into several Companies, and they have their peculiar Places to dwell in. They deal very much in _Cacaos_, a Fruit not unlike an Almond, which beaten to Powder, and prepar’d with several other Ingredients, gives name to that excellent Drink now in use with us, call’d _Chocolate_: They grow onely on moist and warm Grounds, and are us’d so currently in Trade, that they go in stead of Money. Amongst many beautiful Edifices, their Guild is very magnificent, wherein twelve Judges, attended by a considerable number of Officers and Servants, sit daily, hearing and determining all manner of Causes. The next is their Chief Temple or Minster, built quadrangular, all of Free-Stone, having four Portals, opening into the four principal Streets or Triumphs, that end at the four Stone Bridges. On the Walls, being of an exceeding height, stand several Turrets, so high, that they seem to hide their Spires in the Clouds; and have Apartments, wherein the Priests Diet, Lodge, and Study, which are ascended by Marble Steps. These Religious Persons are generally of Noble Extract, which at seven years old are carried thither, where leading a very strict Life, they never come forth to see the World, till they enter the State of Matrimony. The famous _Colossus_, that stood over the _Rhodian_ Haven, between whose Legs all Ships did Sail, that came in or went out of the Harbor, cannot stand in competition with the stupendious Idol _Vuichilabuchichi_, whose Head touches the Arch’d Ceiling of the high Temple. Near his stand several lesser Images, made of Meal and all sorts of Herbs bak’d together, and kneaded with Mens Blood. Along the Walls are exceeding dark Vaults, in which the Priests onely walk; over them are large Halls, full of Presentations of their Gods, which serve for the Burying-places of their Kings. Whilst _Cortez_ and _Montezuma_ were viewing the Temple, two _Spaniards_ rush’d suddenly into one of the Cells, where they found abundance of Lamps and Torches burning, and the Walls bedaub’d two Inches thick with Humane Gore: Over-head hung vast numbers of their Sacrificing Knives; and the stench of the place was intollerable. [Sidenote: Grandeur of the Kings in _Tenustitan_.] [Sidenote: Strange Garden-houses.] But _Cortez_ going on, _Montezuma_ and his Attendants resented it very hainously, that he pull’d down some of their Idols, and durst presume to look in the Kings Face; for those People bear so great Reverence to their Kings, that none dares so much as once look up in their presence: His Council stand bare-footed, stooping with their Faces bow’d almost to the Ground before him: Four times a day they change their Apparel; and a Suit which they have once worn, is put to no other use, but presented to such Soldiers as have done some eminent Service. Whatever manner of Chargers, Dishes, Pots, Cups, and other Vessels the Emperor is serv’d in at his Table, are every Meal new. The King hath in _Tenustitan_ three great Structures, whose Magnificence, for Cost and rare Architecture, can hardly be parallell’d. The first is the Residence for all deform’d People: The second, an _Aviary_ for all manner of Birds and Fowl, being a spacious open place, Roof’d with Nets, and surrounded with Marble Galleries. The third, being a Den for Wild Beasts, was divided into several Rooms, wherein were kept Lions, Tygers, Wolves, Foxes, and all manner of Four-footed Animals. [Illustration] [Sidenote: _Spaniards_ beaten afresh.] [Sidenote: Remarkable Exploits of _Cortez_.] [Sidenote: _Tenustitan_, or _Mexico_, taken.] But whilst _Cortez_ having staid waiting eight Months in _Tenustitan_, for the return of the Messengers sent to the _Spanish_ Court, receiv’d Tidings, That _Pamphilo Narvaecy_, by order of _Velasques_, was come with eighteen Sail, Mann’d with eight hundred Foot, and eighty Horse, from _Cuba_, and now riding before the _Mexican_ Coast; from whence soon after he receiv’d unexpected Command, to come presently aboard unarm’d, and resign up his Authority: But he in stead of submission, compell’d _Narvaecy_ in a short time to relinquish his Title, and own him for Superior. Mean while the _Spaniards_ which remain’d in possession of _Tenustitan_, ran the hazard of a general Massacre; for the Citizens much stomacking the Oppressions of the _Spaniards_, who grew very insolent, inslaving their King, bringing their inveterate Enemies the _Tlaxcallans_ and _Guazuzingans_ into their City, exacting them to pay Tributes, pulling down their Gods, and demolishing their ancient Idols, they brake out from all Parts in a tumultuous manner, ran to Arms, and besieg’d them Day and Night in their Fort, although _Montezuma_ endeavor’d to perswade the contrary. _Cortez_, hearing of it, came to their relief with the New Forces Landed from _Cuba_; but he fighting his way ere he could get in, was so roughly entertain’d by the _Mexicans_, that they kill’d him forty Men, wounding as many more; and notwithstanding fifteen Field-pieces with continual Shot made foul Breaches, lessening the number of the Assailants, yet they suddenly fill’d up their Vacancies again with fresh Men, which clamber’d over the Heaps of those that lay slain. Three Days the Battel had continu’d very fierce, when _Montezuma_ being with the _Spaniards_ in the Castle, went to a low Window, to see if he could command his Subjects to retreat; but a continual Cry so deafned their Ears, and showres of Arrows and Stones so took away their sight, that he did nothing: Then _Montezuma_, thinking to be more easily either heard or seen, went to a higher Window, where looking out, he was unfortunately hit with a Stone, of which he died three days after. Besides their Enemies, the _Spaniards_ suffer’d extremely by Famine; and though they had beaten down a Tower, which had done the Castle great mischief, and set five hundred Houses on fire, yet they could discern no likely issue thereof, but judg’d it best to make their escape by Night over the nearest Bridge: _Cortez_ therefore dividing his gotten Treasures, which amounted to above seven hundred thousand Duckets, amongst his Soldiers, carried _Montezuma_’s Son, and two Daughters, Prisoners with him, though not without infinite danger and loss; for the _Tenustitans_ assail’d him on both sides, and falling in also upon his Rear, spar’d not to kill _Montezuma_’s own Children. In this last Fight the Service was so hot, that _Cortez_ lost forty two Horse, a hundred and fifty _Spaniards_, and two thousand Auxiliaries; and although gotten over the Lake, they were still pursu’d by the _Mexicans_, who would then undoubtedly have made a general Slaughter, had not _Cortez_ amused the Enemies, by leaving in the Night great Fires in several Places, his suppos’d Camps, whilst he silently stole away: Yet the _Tenustitans_ would have pursu’d the _Spaniards_, had they not wanted Provisions: But _Cortez_ sending his Treasure before him, through the Countrey _Colva_, to _Vera Crux_, with a Convoy of five Horse, and forty four Foot, were all cut off by the _Colvaans_, and feasted upon in a Thanksgiving Sacrifice. The same misfortune befel twelve _Spaniards_ in _Tepeacu_, which great City surrendred it self up to _Cortez_, being assisted by a mighty Army of _Tlaxcallans_ and others. But after all these Losses, he took _Guaccachiulla_, and _Izzuca_, both fortified with strong Walls and Gates; in which last he burnt above a hundred Temples, built for Humane Sacrifices. All the Countrey through which he thus ransack’d, he call’d _New-Spain_. From the City _Tazuco_, which he had newly taken, intending to besiege _Tenustitan_, he digg’d through the Lakes a broad Trench, of above three Leagues in length, to bring up thirteen new Ships to _Tenustitan_; and the neighboring People envying, that that City should not be conquer’d, as well as theirs, rais’d an Army of above a hundred and fifty thousand Men, making _Cortez_ their General: Himself incamped on one corner of the City, appointing the other two sides to be invested by _Gonsales Sandovalo_, and _Pedro Avarado_; but the Besieg’d resolutely broke out, and made a fierce Sally with five thousand Boats, setting upon the thirteen Ships; but the great Guns made such execution and havock amongst them, that they retreated with great damage. Whoever were taken Prisoners in this Fight by the _Spaniards_, the _Tlaxcallans_, being Commission’d by _Cortez_, feasted upon. On the seventh day the City was taken, but not without great Slaughter, and the new King imprison’d. [Sidenote: Sad accident occasion’d by a _Tyger_.] After this mighty Conquest, _Cortez_ resolv’d to discover those Territories that lay Southward; and whilst he was making all things ready for the Voyage, he sent two Ships with an invaluable Treasure to _Spain_, who fearing to be taken by the _French_ Pyrats, ran in at _Tercera_, where a miserable Accident hapned to the Seamen of the biggest Ship, wherein were carried two Tygers, which though taken young, and bred up amongst men, yet had not so quite forgotten their natural ferocity, but that one breaking loose in the Night, tore seven of them in pieces, hurting a far greater number, of which some had the Brawns of their Arms, the Calves of their Legs, and fleshy parts of their Thighs bit out. [Sidenote: Strange Battel with Baboons.] Several Places in _America_ breed Tygers, that far exceed Lyons in fierceness; so that where any considerable number of them frequents, though the Soil be never so fruitful, yet it is left desolate and forsaken. But the Baboons that frequent the Woods are more pleasant, and less dangerous. _Peter Arias_ relates, That his whole Army incountred with these Beasts, which climb’d from one Tree to the other, shrieking, and making very strange Gesticulations to those that were gone before, and gathering their Mouths and Hands full of Stones, which they threw as exact and strongly as a Man. When one of these Baboons, shot by a Musquet, fell to the Ground, the rest gave such a horrible shriek, that the Woods resounding with the noise, strook a terror into the _Spaniards_. Amongst several things that hapned in this Counter-scuffle, take this one: A _Spaniard_ taking aim with his Musquet at an old Baboon, which sate pearch’d up in a Tree, and being now just ready to give Fire, the Baboon Soldier, at the very instant, to break the Shot, taking a Stone out of his Mouth, threw it exactly into the Mans Mouth, with such force as beat out some of his Teeth; with which sudden blow surpris’d, he lost his Mark; and the proud Foe, shewing signs of Triumph, went his way. [Sidenote: Great destruction.] [Sidenote: The unfortunate Expedition of _Garajus_.] [Sidenote: _Spaniards_ rosted.] [Sidenote: _Cortez_ his Ambition.] But whilst _Cortez_ staid in the Countrey of _Tenustitan_ (now call’d _Mexico_) _Franciscus Garajus_ sail’d out of the Haven of _Jamaica_, with eleven Ships, to the River _Panucus_, there, according to the Command of the Emperor _Charles_, to plant a Colony: Whereupon he went ashore, ordering his Fleet to sail along in sight of Land: So wading through the River _Montaltus_, which glides between high Mountains, he came to a Morassy Ground, in which he and they often sunk almost up to the Middle, and lost his way in a Thicket of young Trees; yet at last being come to the River _Panucus_, he found several high Walls, being the Ruines of Fortresses, Temples, and Towers, destroy’d by _Cortez_; so that the City lay quite desolate. Twenty Leagues further, upon the Banks of the same River, _Cortez_ had in like manner sack’d and destroy’d _Chiglia_, a Town which before its burning reckon’d above twenty thousand Houses, besides many fair Palaces, Walls, Towers, and Temples: Which Cruelties and Spoil had bred so great an _Odium_ in the Inhabitants against the _Spaniards_, that they immediately sent an Army against _Garajus_, who had only a few half-starv’d Men with him; yet he receiv’d the Enemy twice in his Retreat to the new Colony _St. Steven_, rais’d out of _Chiglia_’s Ruines; but finding no Provisions where-ever he came, he judg’d it fittest to send his Horse into the Countrey to Forage; which _Cortez_ meeting, took Prisoners, under pretence that _Garajus_ came to take Possession, where he had neither Authority nor Right. _Cortez_ also made himself Master of _Garajus_ Ship and Fleet, commanding him withal to appear in _Tenustitan_, which not knowing how to avoid, he obey’d: His People mean time ranging up and down without a Head or Commander, either died by Famine, or were murther’d and eaten by the Natives; for at one time the _Americans_ made a general Feast with two hundred and fifty rosted _Spaniards_: But their days of Triumph lasted not long; for _Sandovalus_, one of _Cortez_ his Prime Officers, set with so much fury upon those _Cannibals_, that he kill’d several thousands of them, and burnt sixty Persons of Prime Quality, all Commanders, in the sight of their Friends and Relations. But _Garajus_, whose Son was married to _Cortez_ his Daughter, liv’d not long after the Wedding, which occasion’d a murmur as if _Cortez_ had poyson’d him, to rid himself of a Partner in his Government; for it had been generally observ’d, that his Ambition suffer’d no Equal. The _Americans_ fell all down before him; all were Servants alike: The Court which he kept swarm’d with Attendance, on which he spent vast Sums of Money; yet his Incomes were able to bear such excessive Disbursements. He kept in constant Pay five thousand Soldiers, and several Ships ready rigg’d and prepar’d on all occasions, to hold in awe the enslav’d People, or else for the Discovery of New Countreys: Yet after all these extraordinary Charges defray’d, to shew his Wealth and Greatness, he caus’d a Piece of Cannon to be cast all of massie Gold: for the Kings which formerly acknowledg’d _Montezuma_ for their Sovereign, gave him a yearly Revenue, most of which were valu’d to be worth twenty three Tun of Gold; for so much the King of _Tescuscus_, a stately City, paid, whose Houses Plaister’d with White-Lime, seem’d afar off to be rather a Chalky Hill or Mountain, cover’d with Snow: Full as much did the King pay which reigned in _Otumba_, notwithstanding he had receiv’d with his _Christianity_ the Name of _Ferdinand Cortez_; yet others gave less: The King _Guacinalgo_, with his Mother, and some Slaves, bringing Gold, came to present it to _Cortez_; and entring the Palace, through a Guard of five hundred Horse and four Hundred Foot, which were always ready Arm’d for fear of Insurrections, he fell down prostrate on the Ground. Thus all things even out-went whatever he could desire, hope for, or imagine. And _Alvaredo_, one of his Commanders, being sent Eastwardly, brought great Treasures back with him, which the conquer’d Kings were forc’d to raise. [Sidenote: His Misfortunes.] But Fortune, who seldom continues her Favors long, at last began to frown; for _Cortez_ having sent an unvaluable Treasure of Gold and Pearls to the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth, _Floryn_ the _French_ Pyrate met with and took it, which went so much to his Heart, that for a considerable time he sent no Advice to the _Spanish_ Court, which made them grow jealous of him, doubting that he intended to make himself King over _New-Spain_; and this Suspicion was not a little augmented by his Enemies. [Sidenote: A Plot of two _Spanish_ Officers.] In the Neck of these, follow’d another Misfortune; for _Christopher Olitus_, sent out by _Cortez_ to discover new Countreys, rebelling, took up Arms against him, being then in the Haven _Figueras_, five hundred Leagues beyond. Notwithstanding the _Spaniards_, although amongst a new-conquer’d People, which without doubt long’d for Revenge, were not to take notice of their danger, but to go on with undaunted Resolution; whereupon _Cortez_ drawing out a strong Party, march’d a long and troublesom way to meet _Olitus_, making great Slaughters where-ever he came. _Francisco de las Casas_ was commanded to go upon the same Account by Sea, and arriving first, found him setling his new Colony, which he nam’d _Triumph de Sancta Crux_; and notwithstanding the Water with a Northerly Wind was very rough and boysterous in the Haven _Figueras_ (which the _Spaniards_ call’d so, because they found Trees there, which growing at the Foot of the Mountains, bore a Fruit not unlike a Fig) yet they came to a present Engagement, wherein _Casas_ worsting _Olitus_, having sunk one of his Ships, stood out again to Sea; but surpriz’d by a violent Storm, and driven on the Shore, fell into _Olitus_’s Hands, who had a little before also taken _Egidíus_ or _Giles Gonsales_. These two Prisoners consulted together how they might poyson or murder _Olitus_, which fell out according to their desires, because the Servants of the House where they lodg’d sided with them; so taking hold of the first opportunity, as they were at Supper together, they stabb’d him with their Knives in several places; yet the Wounds were not so great or mortal, but that he retain’d strength to escape in the dark to a neighboring Hut; but the Assassinates immediately sent out Messengers, publishing, That he who did not, knowing where _Olitus_ was immediately bring him to them, should receive condign punishment; which terrifying _Olitus_, he discover’d himself, and was immediately beheaded. [Illustration] [Sidenote: _Mexicans_ Apparel.] During the time that the _Spanish_ Officers had these Civil Broyls one against another, _Lodowick Pontæus_, a Man well experienc’d in the Law, came from _Spain_ to _America_, there in the Emperors Name to settle all things in good order; having also particular Instructions, to shew great kindness to _Cortez_, and to make him a Knight of the Order of _St. James_, that by that means the Emperor might be the more esteem’d for his Noble Subjects and Servants, amongst the _Mexicans_, who are themselves of a proud and ambitious spirit, and chiefly the Nobility, which doth manifestly appear by their Apparel, more gorgeous than the meaner sort of _Americans_; and though the Slaves go stark naked (having onely a Cloth tied about their Privities) and with a Bowe and Arrows walk before their Lords, yet the Better Sort go very costly Habited; for about their Necks they wear Strings of Pearl; on their Heads, a Cap, from whence hang down two Scarfs, one longer than the other; then a party-colour’d Cotton Coat covers their whole Bodies to their Knees, under which they wear a Vest girt about their Middle. But at last, after all these Services, _Cortez_ disagreeing with the Vice-Roy _Don Antonio Mendoza_, being about that time sent over, went male-contented into _Spain_. SECT. XI. Diego Gottierez _his Expedition_. [Sidenote: _Gottierez_ contests with _Contreras_.] [Sidenote: Is forsaken of all.] [Sidenote: Great Tempest.] [Sidenote: Village _Francisco_.] [Sidenote: Strange manner of eating.] [Sidenote: Unsatisfied Covetousness of _Gottierez_.] _Anno 1540._ _Gottierez_ being chosen Governor of _New Carthage_, weigh’d Anchor from _Cadiz_, and sailing to _Nombre de Dios_, upon his Landing clash’d with _Roderick Contreras_, in whose Place he was sent to succeed. Two Years he spent without effecting any thing; but at last coming to Agreement with _Contreras_, he took the Governorship upon him, having first forewarn’d him not to depend too much upon his Authority; for the Countrey being full of Woods and Mountains, might hide many of his Enemies: But he not regarding the Advice, went a Journey from _New Granada_, and having march’d fifty Leagues Easterly, he cross’d into the River _Suere_, with sixty _Spaniards_, and was presented by the Princes of the Countrey with as much Gold as amounted to seven thousand Duckets. Here he spent some Weeks, effecting little; but now all things growing scarce, though he was very earnest with the Natives for Provisions, yet he could get little; which kind of Life the Soldiers disliking, and growing weary of, went away in the Night to _Nicaragua_. _Gottierez_ thus left alone, got into a Boat, with intent to follow them; and being just put off from the Shore, was met by Captain _Barjanto_, who brought new Forces and fresh Provisions with him: This wrought upon him to stay there. Not long after _Alphonso de Pisa_ went with twenty seven Men from _Nombre de Dios_ to the same River _Suere_; but it being then very rough at the Entrance, he was necessitated to pass on to a small uninhabited Isle, where whilst he lay at an Anchor, the Weather began to grow worse and worse; the Gusts of Wind, mix’d with Showres of Rain, Thunder, and Lightning, seem’d to threaten a general Destruction; for in the Ship two _Spaniards_ and one _Moor_ were kill’d by the Lightning: In seventy two Days, the Sun did not shine four Hours: At last weighing Anchor, he sail’d over to the Main Land, where he saw nothing but vast Mountains and Wildernesses. Here for a time they liv’d upon Cockles found on the Shore, and wild Fruits in the Woods: At length coming to _Gottierez_, he sent him with his People in five Boats to fetch new Forces from _Nombre de Dios_. In his way thither he saw a House built of Canes, cover’d with Palm-leaves, forty five Paces long, and built after an Oval fashion: Round about it stood several lesser Hovels, all which making up a Village, the _Spaniards_ nam’d _Francisco_, because they came thither on _St. Francis_ Day. About half way they met with the Lords of _Suere_ and _Chiuppa_, going to attend _Gottierez_, to whom being admitted, and sitting with him at Table, he gave them, as a Dainty, rosted Chickens and fresh Pork; but they gave it to their Servants, not delighting in the taste of such Victuals. _Gottierez_, by means of an Interpreter, told them concerning the _Christian Religion_, at which they bow’d their Heads, without making any Answer: But how little mind they had to embrace it, quickly appear’d; for not long after, they set their Villages on fire, and all the Provisions which they could not carry with them, they spoil’d, and so retiring, hid themselves upon inaccessible Mountains. Another Incentive leading them to this Fight, was, because the Governor _Camachiren_, and his Deputy (notwithstanding he had given _Gottierez_ as much Gold, when he came first into the Countrey, as amounted to seven thousand Duckets, as we mention’d before) yet was put in Prison by his Order, contrary to all Promises: Nay, _Gottierez_ threatned to burn him not regarding, that he had besides receiv’d of him several Pieces of Gold, resembling all manner of Beasts, as Tygers, and others; and also Fishes and Fowls curiously wrought, which were valu’d at two Tun of Gold; yet this Present seemed too little for him, whereupon bringing the Prisoner to a Chest, he swore that he would rost him by degrees, if in four days time he did not furnish him with four times as much more Gold as that Chest would hold: Whereupon _Chamachiren_’s Servants went away to get the requir’d Gold; but he, through carelesness of the Watch, made his escape in the Night, so that _Gottierez_ lost his Booty. But the other Prisoners, though threatned to be torn asunder with Dogs, remain’d firm, disowning that they had any Gold; and among the rest, one speaking boldly to the _Spanish_ Officer said, _That he stood amaz’d at his treacherous dealings, why did he keep him Chain’d against Law and Promise, and often threaten’d him with death, but yet would not kill him, for he, said he, had rather choose to die, than live so miserable a life_. _Gottierez_’s Conscience troubling him, he would willingly have releas’d the _Indian_, and the rather, because he promis’d to procure a great ransome of Gold; but the inferior Commanders would not consent to it. After this they march’d six days through great Wildernesses, and over high Mountains, finding no Footsteps of any People. Lastly, They came down a very dangerous and steep Mountain, where had not the Shrubs and jutting Stones serv’d them to hold by, they had all broken their Necks. [Sidenote: Dangerous Mountains.] [Sidenote: Strange Huts.] Fifteen Leagues, the hanging of this Mountain spread it self along a sweet River, on whose opposite Shore stood strange Huts full of dead Tygers, Deers Heads, and Legs; here they staid two days to rest themselves, where the Trees _Mamei_ and the _Cazabi_ Plants yielded them good Food. [Sidenote: Valiant fight.] Travelling forward, _Gottierez_ ask’d an _Indian_ which was the nearest way to a Village, but he pretending not to know any near hand, had his Head immediately cut off. In like manner, and for the same reason the _Indian_ Prince should also have been Executed, had not _Gottierez_ given order to the contrary; seeing his resolution, that with no less Patience than undaunted Courage, stretch’d forth his Neck to the Executioners. Mean while, their Provisions decreasing, they suffer’d extreme hunger; insomuch, that some fainted quite away. The Souldiers also rebelling against _Gottierez_ for Food, he commanded them to kill their Dogs, and stamp the Barks of Trees; two days they travelled much discontented in this manner, and at last came to the entrance of a Wood, where they espy’d an _Indian_ standing behind a Tree, which on a sudden ran away with incredible swiftness: early the next morning, above four thousand _Indians_ came Marching against the faint _Spaniards_, making a terrible noise with Horns and Drums; they were all except their Princes Painted black and red; some wore Plumes of Feathers on their Heads, and Collars of the same about their Necks; the fight began very fiercely, by casting abundance of Stones, and shooting of Arrows, wherein, though _Gottierez_ was at first Wounded, yet after half an hour the Assailants fled, but recruited with fresh Forces renew’d the fight, breaking into their Ranks, and making so great slaughter amongst them with Woodden Swords, and Palm-Tree Clubs, knocking down, and dealing such deadly Wounds, that of the _Spaniards_, three onely escap’d, saving themselves by flight, who two hours after, much amaz’d and terrify’d, came to their reserve, consisting onely of twenty four Men, which _Alphonso de Risa_ Commanded; the insulting Enemy at their Heels, waving over their Heads the Swords, Shields, and Cross-Bows which they had gotten from the slain _Spaniards_; and some withal crying in the _Spanish_ Tongue, _Come Christians, come, and take Gold_. But _de Risa_, for all their pride, set them going with some Volleys of Shot; after this, escaping innumerable other dangers, he came to _Nombre de Dios_, without having effected any thing of Note. SECT. XIA. _The Expeditions of_ Peter Alvarado, Francisco _and_ Gonzalvo Pizarro, _and_ Diego de Almagro. [Sidenote: _Pizarro_’s and _Almagro_’s remarkable exploits.] In the City of _Panama_, in _New Spain_, liv’d three eminent _Spaniards_, call’d _Francisco Pizarro_, _Diego de Almagro_, and _Ferdinand de Luque_ a Priest, which joyntly design’d to discover farther Southerly along the rich Gold and Pearl Coast, and inspect the Southern Ocean. _De Luque_ was to look to home-affairs, and _Pizarro_ set Sail first with a Ship Man’d with one hundred and fourteen Men, which _Almagro_ follow’d with seventy more, yet both were valiantly repuls’d by the _Peruvians_; but although they return’d the first time with bad success, yet they undertook their business once more, but with no better fortune; whereupon discouraged, the undertaking seem’d to be totally laid aside, and the _American_ Vice-Roy, _Peter de Rios_ forbad any to attempt a farther Discovery concerning _Peru_. The former difficulties with this Edict easily wrought upon _Pizarro_’s men, all but twelve, to leave him, for the rest went over with the Ship fitted out by _Rios_ with succors to the Island _Gallo_, where _Pizarro_ resided, having also fail’d in his second Expedition. But although he had made two bad Voyages, yet having an inclination to a third attempt, he went to _Spain_, desiring of the Emperor to be Governor of _Peru_, which he had discover’d; for besides his Plea of Merits he had taken possession of the Country twice by Landing there, intended for the use of his Imperial Majesty; one of his Sea-men to that purpose flourishing his two-handed Sword over his Head, the glittering of which Sword so frighted the Natives, that none of them durst come near him. [Sidenote: _Pizarro_’s fight on _Puna_.] His request being consulted upon, was at last granted, the Government of _Peru_ being conferred upon him; but _Almagro_ took it very ill, that _Pizarro_ went to the Emperor on such a design for himself; yet by the mediation of his Friends the difference was reconciled, then _Pizarro_ setting Sail with one hundred and fifty Foot besides Horse, and Landing at the Island _Puna_, at first was courteously entertain’d; but the _Spaniards_ by extravagant hunting and searching every where their Houses for Gold, and committing several other outrages, incensing, chang’d the humor of the Inhabitants so much, that they fell upon them. In stead of Ensigns, Standards, and Warlike Trophies, they used long Canes, at the end whereof were ty’d the Bones of their antient Hero’s, honor’d by them after their death: But these Reliques sav’d not the _Indians_ from slaughter, so well as the coverts of a neighboring Wood. [Sidenote: Comes to _Peru_.] [Sidenote: _Peruvian_ Temple.] From this Isle, lying three degrees Southward of the _Equinoctial_, _Pizarro_ passed over to the _Main Continent_, where they were all in a great confusion, upon the report of the _Spaniards_ cruelties committed in _Puna_; yet all the preparations of the _Indians_ to withstand, stop’d not _Pizarro_ from his intended course; for first, having the success to master _Tampez_, thence he made nothing to march his Forces over the River _Ambato_, there burning a Temple Dedicated to the Sun. The _Portico_ stood towards the East, the rising of their God, before which hung a Curtain of their fine Cotton Stuff, within stood the presentations of two Golden Rams, shaded with Black, and as many Dragons, before which the Fire never went out, continually supply’d with Offerings of burnt Incense; on the Pillars hung several Men flead, their Flesh kept firm, and free from all Putrifaction, with the infusion of a sharp Juyce. Here _Almagro_ coming to _Pizarro_ with fresh Forces, they made no little penetration into _Peru_, satisfying every where their thirst of Gold, and slaughtering the Toothless _Tombezes_, a people who having offended their King, had by his order the upper Teeth of the whole Nation beaten out. [Sidenote: _Alvarado_’s Exploits.] [Sidenote: Notable Stratagem of the _Peruvians_.] [Sidenote: Wickedness of a Woman.] [Sidenote: _Guatimala_ destroy’d by a flood.] [Sidenote: _Velasques’_ Journey.] _Peter Alvarado_ inform’d concerning the Riches of _Peru_, and well knowing how to insinuate with the Emperor in his fawning Letters, at last by his Friends so prevail’d, that he also got leave to go thither; in pursuance of which, _Anno 1534._ he Weigh’d Anchor with seven Ships from _Guatimala_, a City built by him between two Mountains. But Landing at _Puerto Viejo_, and Marching Easterly over Snowy Mountains, he was met by _Almagro_, between whom a bloody incounter was like to have happen’d, but after some time, a Treaty being set a Foot, they came to a Composition on these Articles: That _Alvarado_ upon the receipt of a hundred thousand Duckets, should leave his Men with _Almagro_, and depart from _Peru_; with which sum, being inrich’d, he soon after fitted out fourteen Sail to discover new Countreys to the West; but being busie in his preparations, was sent for to _Mexico_ by _Don Antonio Mendoza_ the Vice-Roy, to undertake a Voyage with him to the new-discover’d Countrey of _Sibolla_, abounding in Gold and Saffron, according to the report of four _Dominican_ Monks; and having already rais’d seven hundred Men, news came to _Mexico_, that _Peter Zunica_ had receiv’d an overthrow by the _Indians_ of _Salisco_; to whose assistance _Alvarado_ March’d with all speed, and found the _Indians_ incamp’d on a high Mountain, fortifi’d with conjoyn’d Trees, and great Stones ty’d together with Rushes, behind which they were secure from Shot. The _Spaniards_ climbing up the Mountain, approach’d their Works, when on a sudden the Defendants giving a great Shout, cut the Cords which held their Fortification together, whereupon the Stones and Trees tumbled down with such force, that they kill’d both Men and Horse, few escaping alive: In this conflict _Alvarado_ himself was lost. His Wife _Beatrix Cuova_ made a stately Funeral for her Husband, and caus’d her House to be Painted black, refusing either to Eat or Drink for a set time, yet notwithstanding, all her pretence of sorrow, she so minded her business, that she took the Government of _Guatimala_ into her own hands; but her Dominion lasted not long, for on the eighteenth of _September, Anno 1541._ happen’d a hideous Tempest of Wind and Rain, mixt with continual Lightning, and horrible claps of Thunder, and what was more terrible, was answer’d with roars and horrid bellowings from the caverns of the Mountain, at whose foot _Guatimala_ stood. About midnight the Mountain was deliver’d, whose Birth was the irruption of an Inundating River, a precipitate torrent tumbling down full of Rocks and Stones, which carry’d all before it, so that in few minutes _Guatimala_ was utterly swept away, not the least mark remaining, nor any left alive except _Alvarado_’s Bastard Daughter by an _Indian_; and in the adjacent Fields, some few, and they maim’d, with broken Arms or Legs; after this utter destruction, they re-built another _Guatimala_, three Leagues more Easterly. But though _Alvarado_ was lost in this Enterprize, yet the Voyage to _Sibolla_ was not laid aside, for _Francisco Velasques_ March’d thither with eight hundred Men, of which most were Horse, but found nought else but Snowy Mountains and barren Plains, insomuch, that his Men and Horses were starv’d for want of Provision; wherefore he return’d without success to _Mexico_, having onely burnt some Villages, and had several Rencounters with the Natives. [Sidenote: _Attabaliba_’s message to _Pizarro_.] But _Attabaliba_ a _Peruan_ Prince, inform’d of _Pizarro_ and _Almagro_’s coming, commanded them both to depart out of his Kingdom; but they not regarding it, march’d directly to _Caxamalca_, where _Attabaliba_ kept his Court, who again sent other Messengers to them with command to leave his Dominions. _Pizarro_ made answer, that he could not obey any Commands but those of his Master the Emperor, who had order’d him to speak with the King himself at his own Palace. _Attabaliba_ hearing that _Pizarro_ resolv’d to come forward, sent him a pair of Painted Shooes and Armlets, that he might put them on when he appear’d before his Throne: Captain _Ferdinand Sotto_ march’d before with twenty Horse, passing close on the Flank of _Attabaliba_’s Army: The _Indians_ amaz’d at the prauncing of their Horses, retreated into their Fortifications, but were for their cowardize immediately slain by the King’s Order. [Sidenote: His discourse with a _Spanish_ Bishop, and his apparel.] _Sotto_ sent a Message to _Attabaliba_, That the _Spaniards_ desir’d peaceably to Treat with him, to which he receiv’d answer, That no Peace could be made, unless they restor’d the Gold and Silver to the Owners, which they had Plunder’d from them, and forsook his Territories; which so doing, they should have Audience the next day: Hereupon the Bishop _Vincent de Villa Viridi_ was conducted into the Royal Palace, in the City of _Caxamalca_, and brought before _Attabaliba_, who came thither in great State, with a Guard of twenty five thousand Men; he was carry’d on the Shoulders of his prime Nobles in a Sedan, about which hung Garlands of Gold, and divers colour’d Feathers; himself was cloth’d in a white loose Vest, without Sleeves; his Temples were bound with a red Ribbon, with a long Tassel on his left Cheek; on his Fore-head stuck three curious Feathers; before him March’d three hundred of his Life-Guard, all in one Livery, who clear’d the way through which the King was to pass. The before-mention’d Bishop carry’d in one Hand a Cross, in the other a Book, discoursing with the King to this effect; _That God is the Trinity_, Adam _the first Man_; _Christ Born of a Virgin, dy’d on the Cross_; _the_ Pope _God’s Vice-Gerent, who according to the Power he had from Heaven, had given_ Peru _to the Emperor_ Charles, _as also all other Countreys in_ America; _and if he should prove obstinate, and resist, he must expect nothing less than utter ruine_. _Attabaliba_ reply’d, _That he serv’d_ Pachamaca, _being the Creator of all things; and next to him the Sun and Moon: How glorious do they appear_ (said he) _in comparison of a Crucifi’d God? To make Peace and Alliance with mighty Princes, was the true Foundation of wise Government: But the_ Pope _must needs be senseless, devoy’d of all reason, and withal highly unjust, to give away what was none of his own_, viz. _other mens Kingdoms, in which he never had the least or smallest concern. Moreover, he would not desert that Religion which he and his Ancestors had maintain’d so many Ages, and the rather, because there are no apparent or sufficient Testimony of the truth of Christianity._ The latter clause was thus answer’d, saying, _This Book, O King, which I hold in my hand, proves and declares all that you question_. _Attabaliba_ looking upon it, turn’d it over Leaf by Leaf, then look’d more intentively upon the Print, which done he clap’d it to either Ear, and at last as altogether unsatisfi’d, in disdainful manner threw it away. But _Pizarro_ gaining time while the King and Bishop thus discours’d, had drawn his Men in Battel-Array, his sixty Horse he divided into three Wings, Commanded by his three Brothers, _Ferdinand_, _John_, and _Gonzalvo Pizarro_, left the Captains _Sotto_ and _Bavalcazar_ in an Ambuscade; _Peter de Canada_ march’d in the Van, and he himself in the main Body, leaving _Sotto_ in the Rear. [Illustration] [Sidenote: _Pizarro_ fights with _Attabaliba_.] [Sidenote: _Attabaliba_ taken prisoner.] [Sidenote: Bids for his ransom an unvaluable treasure.] So soon as the Bishop could acquaint them in what scornful manner _Attabaliba_ had thrown his Holy Book, _The Word of God_, upon the ground; both Armies were Engaged, whilst their Trumpets sounded, their Drums beat, their Canons roar’d, the Horses neigh’d, and the Dogs bark’d, they made a speedy march up against the Walls of _Taxamalca_, which dreadful mixture of terrible noises struck such a Pannick fear into the hearts of the _Indians_, that they all presently broke, in their flight crowding one another to death at the Gates of the City, which being too narrow to receive them, they themselves made breaches in their own Walls to enter; which opportunity the _Spaniards_ no ways neglected, but entering with them, shot and kill’d all they could reach; their Dogs also having no little share in the slaughter; whole companies of Indians were trode under the Horses feet, yet near _Attabaliba_’s Chair was the greatest resistance, for no sooner fell one of the Bearers, but immediately another supply’d the place; so that the King was surrounded with heaps of his own slain Subjects, to whom _Pizarro_ himself Charg’d up so close, that having seiz’d him by his long Hair, he pull’d him out of his Throne, and having gotten him under him, secur’d immediately in Fetters; whereupon all his Life-Guard forsook him, and fled: But the loss of the Battel, which was _Attabaliba_’s utter ruine, was laid upon _Runninagui_, a Captain appointed to lie in Ambush, so to fall in the Rear of the _Spaniards_ with five thousand men; but was so far from performing his Orders, that terrifi’d at the uncouth noise of the Guns, and the rest, that he fled one hundred and fifty Leagues Southerly, before he stopt, or scarce ever look’d behind him in so long a flight. Mean while, _Attabaliba_ compounded with _Pizarro_ for his Ransom, _viz._ to pay him as much Gold as that Hall in his Court (where they made the Agreement) could hold to the top; they first measur’d the heighth, then the length, which was found to be fifty four Foot, and the breadth nine: In pursuance of this composition, Gold was brought thither from all places, according to _Attabaliba_’s order; yet he could not raise so much as would perform his bargain, which made the _Spaniards_ to grumble: But _Attabaliba_ desiring some longer time to perform it, telling _Pizarro_, that most of the Gold was brought on Slaves Shoulders, a long and troublesome way, of two hundred Leagues long, from the City _Cusco_, and if this would not satisfie, _Pizarro_ might send some of his own people thither, to inform him, that he need not fear the least danger, as long as he was Prisoner with his Wife and Children. The two Captains, _Sotto_, and _Peter del Baro_ being sent away to that purpose, met after some days Journey with one of _Attabaliba_’s Leaders, who was bringing the King’s Brother _Guascar_ with a Party, Prisoner to _Caxamalca_. [Sidenote: Burns his Brother _Guascar_ alive.] _Guascar_ had now a fair opportunity to crave assistance of the _Spaniards_, telling them, that he and _Attabaliba_ were the Sons of _Guaynacava_, so that the Kingdom was to be divided betwixt both. But _Attabaliba_ had by force made himself Master of all, whereas he being the youngest, ought to be satisfi’d with that share which _Guascar_, being the eldest, would assign him; for the right of Inheritance belong’d justly to him, and yet he was carry’d away bound to slaughter: But if _Pizarro_ would do justice in delivering him out of his Brothers bloody Hands, he would raise him thrice as much Gold as _Attabaliba_ had promis’d: To which purpose he desir’d _Sotto_ and _Baro_ to put off their Journey to _Cusco_; which they not daring to do, went on their way, and _Guascar_ descending the Valley _Sucsuhuana_, was burnt alive by _Attabaliba_’s Soldiers. Mean while, _Almagro_ came with fresh Forces to _Taxamalca_, which occasion’d no small trouble in _Pizarro_, who was onely thirsty after Gold: On the other side, _Almagro_ as greedy, grew jealous that _Pizarro_ should keep the promis’d Hall full of Gold for himself, and he should have no share, because _Attabaliba_ was his Prisoner; therefore he earnestly desir’d that _Attabaliba_ might privately be made away, and that the Booty might be divided to one as well as the other. [Sidenote: An incredible sum of Money given to the Soldiers.] [Sidenote: _Attabaliba_ strangled.] _Pizarro_ to prevent all inconveniencies that might happen from his dissenting, gave in the presence of the King to every private Soldier a thousand Duckets in Gold, and six thousand five hundred twenty five Silver Crowns; the inferior Officers receiv’d four and thirty thousand Crowns, and the others sixty thousand; the fifth part of the Booty he reserv’d for the Emperor: And notwithstanding _Attabaliba_ perform’d his promise in filling the Hall full of Gold, yet he had the sentence of Death pronounc’d against him; neither would his excuse of Innocency serve, or his Requests to be sent to _Spain_, there to clear himself before the Emperor; but sighing, and lamenting his misfortunes, was ty’d to a Post, and Strangled in the presence of _Pizarro_. For whose Death, though a _Heathen_, Divine Vengeance pursu’d these cruel and unjust Arbitrators that thus made their Will a Law, none of them dying a natural Death. Moreover it was observ’d, that a few days before this Execution a blazing Star appear’d, which _Attabaliba_ seeing, presaging sadly of himself said, _That a great Prince would die in a short time_; but _Pizarro_’s chief pretences for the Kings just suffering was, that he had cruelly murder’d his Brother _Guascar_: But this was a meer blind, for that that incens’d them against _Attabaliba_, was, that he knowing where the unvaluable treasure lay, which _Guascar_ had bury’d, would not discover it to them. [Sidenote: Cruelty of _Ruminagui_.] [Sidenote: _Pizarro_ puts _Quizquiz_ to flight.] [Sidenote: And takes _Cusco_.] [Sidenote: Unvaluable Treasures taken.] [Sidenote: Remarkable passage of a Dog.] _Attabaliba_, before his death, desir’d that he might be bury’d in the Territory _Quito_, by his Father _Guaynacava_, whom the _Peruvians_ for his great Justice and Prudence in Government, believed that he would arise, and settle the World so troubled and full of disorder in peace and quiet: The Corps was accordingly carry’d thither in great State after their manner, attended by his Brother, whom _Illescas Ruminagui_ which ran from _Attabaliba_ in the Battel, where he lay in ambush when he might have done them good service; in the way to his entertainment, receiv’d with all shews of sorrow; but when they were feasted to excess, bury’d in sleep and Wine, he Massacred and flea’d _Illescas_ the Kings Brother alive, and made a Taber of his Skin. Whilst _Attabaliba_’s Funeral was thus bloodily solemniz’d, his General _Quizquiz_ rais’d a great Army, which _Pizarro_ encountring after a valiant resistance, totally routed; then marching victoriously to _Cusco_, he saw great Fires in the City, and the Citizens fighting with the _Spaniards_, sent before; but the Horse breaking in upon them, most of them fled the next morning to the Mountains: Thus the _Spaniards_ became Masters of the City, where they inflicted the most cruel tortures on all Sexes, by that means to force them to discover, if they knew of any hidden Treasures, being not satisfi’d with what they found there, although they had gotten a greater Treasure in _Cusco_ than that that they had extorted from _Attabaliba_ before: Nay, they gave those that were murther’d for Food to their Dogs: Among the rest, _Didacus Salazar_ having a very fierce Dog call’d _Bezerril_, had also an old _Indian_ Woman his Prisoner, to whom he gave a Letter to deliver to the General _Pizarro_; the Woman had not gone many Paces before she was set upon by _Bezerril_, whom _Salazar_ let loose, that he might delight himself in seeing the Dog tear the poor old Woman; but she observing him come running at her with so great fierceness, fell down upon her Knees, and holding forth the Letter, cry’d, _Good my Lord, good my Lord Dog, I must carry this Letter to General_ Pizarro, whereupon the furious Curr having more compassion than the _Spaniard_, stood still a little, and at last lifted up his Leg in a scornful manner, Urin’d upon her, and return’d satisfi’d; at which sportive behavior of the Cur and the Chrone, _Salazar_ laughing, was so well pleas’d, that he gave the Woman her life. [Sidenote: _Almagro_’s unhappy Journey.] [Sidenote: King’s Town.] After _Cusco_ had been sufficiently Plunder’d, _Pizarro_ made _Almagro_ Governor thereof, with the Territories belonging to it, and built near the River _Lima_ a Town, which they call’d _Los Reyes_. Mean while, _Almagro_ receiv’d Letters Patent from the Emperor, in which he was nominated _Marshal_ of _Peru_; encourag’d by that honor, he took a great design in hand, for the _Peruvians_ had reported, that the Golden _Chili_ lay to the South; and _Almagro_ being encourag’d, and assisted by _Pizarro_, March’d inquest thereof with two Troops of Horse, and five hundred Foot: But mean while there happen’d so great Rains, and such foul Weather, that the Ways were almost unpassable, so that the Expedition grew very troublesome; yet however he went on, in which hard March he lost both Horse and Men. [Sidenote: _Mango Inga_ takes _Cusco_.] [Sidenote: Contest between _Almagro_ and _Pizarro_.] [Sidenote: _Almagro_ strangled.] Whilst _Almagro_ was upon this undertaking, _Francisco Pizarro_ receiv’d Letters Patent from the Emperor, in which he was Intitul’d _Duke of Peru_, but with a _Salvo_ for the honor before given to _Almagro_; yet these balanc’d honors bred great dissention between the Duke and Marshal, which _Mango Inga_ another of _Attabaliba_’s Brothers observing, laid hold of the opportunity, and setting upon the _Spanish_ Garrison in _Cusco_, took the City. Whereupon _Pizarro_ immediately sent his Horse thither, under the Command of _Alphonso Alvarado_, and _Gomes de Todoya_, against whom the _Indians_ fought very valiantly, insomuch, that the Battel was a long time doubtful; yet at last the _Spaniards_ got a bloody Victory, and regain’d _Cusco_; hither after some time, _Almagro_ returning with ill success, having effected nothing, was kept out by _Ferdinand Pizarro_, under pretence that he could not open the Gate without Order from his Brother the Duke. _Almagro_ much offended thereat, yet saying little, was so privately let into the City, that he surpriz’d the Governor _Ferdinand Pizarro_, and his Brother _Gonsalvo_, with _Alphonso Alvarado_ Prisoners; swearing that he would not rest before he had rooted all the _Pizarro_’s out of Peru. But whilst he was passing the intended Sentence of Death upon them, _Gonsalvo_ and _Alvarado_ broke Prison; and got away to the Duke, who troubled for his Brother _Ferdinand_ there in custody, and in danger of his life, came to Composition; whereupon _Ferdinand_ was also releas’d: But this was no sooner done, and he had got his Brother safe there, but the Duke regarding nothing less than the keeping of the new-made Peace, sent to _Almagro_, that the Emperor having given him the prime Command over _Peru_, he requir’d him to leave _Cusco_, or else he would force him. _Almagro_ sent answer, That if he could see the Emperor’s Hand, he would immediately obey, otherwise not; whereupon both Parties prepar’d for War, wherein they had many sharp bickerings in a short time: But _Almagro_ being too weak fell into the Dukes hands, who order’d him to be strangled in the Gaol, and his body afterwards to be drawn to the Market-place, and there publickly Beheaded. _Ferdinand Pizarro_ being not long after sent to _Spain_, with the fifths of the gotten Treasure for the Emperor, was Imprison’d in the Castle _Motto_, for _Almagro_’s Death: But what further happen’d to him there, or became of him, hath never been Recorded by any Pen. [Sidenote: _Ferdinand Pizarro_ never obtains his liberty.] [Sidenote: Young _Almagro_ stabs the Duke.] But young _Almagro_, instigated by his Guardian _John Rada_, resolving, to be reveng’d for his Fathers Death; to that purpose he went to _Los Reyes_, where by the help of some hir’d Male-contents, he design’d to Murder the Duke upon St. _John_’s day, in the Church at high Service: But this business was not so closely carry’d, but the Duke had some inkling thereof, who therefore stay’d at home, and went not to Mass that day. The Conspirators doubting the event, hearing that their Plot was discover’d, though defeated in their purpose, yet not fail’d in their Courage, ran at noon day to the Palace, crying, _Kill the Tyrant, kill the Traytor_. But _Pizarro_ being so much forewarn’d, had lock’d up the Gates, and arm’d himself, which when they could not enter, yet they went back through the City, and waving a bloody Sword, cry’d, _Pizarro is slain_; this being believ’d, above two hundred private Friends to _Almagro_ appear’d, who all ran to the Palace, crouding about the Gates: And _Francisco de Chares_ coming out at a private Door, hoping to pacifie the Mutineers, was immediately Stab’d; but they rushing in the way he came, found some stout opposition, for seven Halberdiers of his Guard fought till they were all kill’d in the Dukes presence; but _Pizarro_ was taken alive, and being brought before _Almagro_, he Savagely Butcher’d him with his own hands; which done, they ran crying along the Streets, _Long live the Emperor, and_ Didacus Almagro. [Sidenote: Great slaughter in _Los Reye_.] But after all this, _Pizarro_’s Party joyning together, valiantly withstood the Conspirators, so that a considerable number were slain on both sides, yet _Almagro_ at last getting the better, confiscated the Goods of all those that were against him; and now every one shew’d him the respect of Chief Governor, till the Emperor should either settle him, or send another. From hence Marching to _Cusco_, he had like to have paid for all, but prevented by private intelligence thereof; which happen’d thus, [Sidenote: Strange Transactions between _Alvarado_, _Sotello_, and _Almagro_.] [Sidenote: Fight between _Castro_ and _Almagro_.] [Sidenote: _Castro_’s Cruelty.] _Garcias Alvarado_ and _Christopher Sotello_ were Joynt-Governors of _Cusco_; but quarrelling, and coming to Blows in like manner, _Sotello_ was slain: This _Almagro_ took very hainously, as being his intimate Friend, giving forth threatning Speeches of Revenge; which _Alvarado_ inform’d of, and intending some way or other to prevent all Dangers, and save himself, he invited _Almagro_ to a Feast, but privately resolving to make it a Bloody Banquet, by his Death at the Table. Of this he being inform’d, as we mention’d before, staid at home, and privately sent for some Soldiers that had belong’d to _Sotello_, sending word that he was indispos’d: _Alvarado_, under a shew of Kindness, goes to _Almagro_, hoping to perswade him to come to his prepar’d Treat; but so soon as he was enter’d the Hall, they clapp’d to the Gate, and the Soldiers falling upon _Alvarado_, slew him: But soon after _Almagro_ was call’d in question, and not long enjoy’d this his usurp’d Authority; for the Emperor _Charles_ sending the Learned _Vacca de Castro_ with full Authority to _Peru_, to settle that disturb’d Kingdom, _Almagro_ now us’d to Govern, had no Ears to become a Subject; therefore he march’d with an Army to meet _Castro_, by whom, after a bloody Fight, being beaten and put to flight, having four thousand Men, he fell into the Victors Hands near _Cusco_, where he was treated very severely; for shortly after he was condemn’d to be Beheaded; others were strangled, and some torn in pieces with Horses. [Sidenote: _Vela_ Vice-Roy of _Peru_.] [Sidenote: Murders _Xuarez_.] [Sidenote: Is taken and put in Prison.] Not long after this great Execution, _Blasco Nunnez Vela_ came to _Peru_, and being appointed Vice-Roy, had four Councellors assign’d him, with whom he was to consult in all Affairs; and especially to set the _Indians_ at liberty, which till then had suffer’d much misery under the _Spanish_ Tyranny: To perform which, the Emperor had given an Order under his Great Seal, which was to be publish’d and proclaim’d in all Places. _Vela_ at his arrival faithfully perform’d all his Commands, seiz’d upon _Vacca de Castro_, because he had Executed _Almagro_ without any Examination or Tryal; yet by this means he got the hatred of all, so that most of the _Spaniards_ chose _Gonsalvo Pizarro_ for their Chief, whereby Affairs grew daily more and more out of Order. _Nunnez Vela_ laid all the blame thereof upon _William Xuarez_, Governor of _Lima_, whom he sent for in the Night, and correcting over-severely, gave him also two mortal Wounds, of which he presently died: The Body was in the Morning drawn along the Streets, which caus’d so great a murmuring amongst the Inhabitants, that soon after they seem’d to make a general Insurrection: Wherefore _Nunnez Vela_ fearing the worst, resolv’d to convey himself from thence _incognito_, and pass to _Truxillo_: But his four Councellors advis’d him to the contrary; yet he took his own way, causing all his Treasure to be sent aboard; and having made ready his Horses to depart, the Common People in a tumultuous manner set upon the Palace, catching, snatching up, and carrying away all the Silver they could find, and meeting the Vice-Roy, seiz’d, and thrust him into a Dungeon; which done, they fell at variance amongst themselves; for some would have him executed, but others insisted to have him sent Prisoner to _Spain_; which last being the more moderate, getting the upper Hand, _Vela_ was put aboard, and committed to the custody of _Didacus Alvarez_, who Anchoring in the Mouth of the River _Tombez_ (kindness growing betwixt them) releas’d the Vice-Roy his Prisoner, and set him ashore, who not long after got some Forces together. [Sidenote: Is Beheaded.] Mean while _Pizarro_ was every where acknowledg’d for Supreme Governor, who having Intelligence of the Vice-Roys Design, sent _Francisco Carvayales_ thither, between whom and _Vela_ was a sharp Encounter; but at last being worsted, and retaken by _Carvayales_, he was soon after executed, and his Head plac’d on a Pole near the Gallows. The Emperor _Charles_ turmoil’d with Wars at home, saw no likelyhood to settle the confus’d Affairs of _Peru_; yet at last he thought it convenient to send one _Peter Gasca_ thither, an Ecclesiastick, of a subtile and ingenious Wit, who landing _Anno 1546._ in _Lima_, with no other Title than _Chief Councellor to the Emperor_, took quite another course than _Vela_, perswading them all, that Affairs should be setled in order, according to their own desires, and former Miscarriages never be remembred, being utterly deleted by an Act of Oblivion. [Sidenote: _Gasca_’s murderous Exploits.] [Sidenote: _Gonsalves Pizarro_ strangled.] [Sidenote: Cruelty us’d on _Carvayales_.] The News of this General Pardon spreading it self far and near, wrought a great change; for _Pizarro_’s Intimates, and those nearest of Concern, shrunk daily from him; which _Gasca_ observing, march’d against him; and that they might make the more haste, they loaded several _Peruvians_, chain’d, with their Arms, whom when they lagg’d, they switch’d and whipp’d before them. And now both Armies being met, and discharging their Cannons at one another, with considerable loss to each side, whole Regiments came running over to _Gasca_; so that _Pizarro_ being quite forsaken, yielded himself to the mercy of the Conqueror, who accus’d him of High Treason, and caus’d him to be strangled in a Dungeon, and fix’d his Head on a Marble Pillar in _Lima_, environ’d with Iron Rails, and inscrib’d with a brief Account of all his Offences. But _Gasca_ not thus satisfied, hang’d up several Commanders, and whipping and stigmatizing others, condemn’d them after to the Gallies: But his greatest spight was against the Field-Marshal _Carvayales_, a Person of the Age of fourscore years, whom tying to a Horses Tail, he caus’d a whole Hour to be drawn up and down the Market-place, scorn’d and derided of all People; which done, he was quarter’d alive. Not long after _Gasca_ surrendred the Command of _Peru_ to the Learned _Cianca_, and carried an unvaluable Treasure to _Germany_, for the Emperor _Charles_, who gave him in requital for his faithful Service, the Bishoprick of _Valentia_. SECT. XII. _The Expeditions of_ John Stade, _and_ Nicholas Durando Villegagnon. [Sidenote: _Stade_ taken by the _Cannibals_.] [Sidenote: His strange Entertainment amongst them.] About the same time that _Gasca_ arriv’d in _Spain_, _John Stade_ had the Command over a small Fort rais’d of Stone and Earth, on the Island _Maro_, adjacent to _Brasile_, because the Salvage People of _Tupin Imba_ sail’d twice a year from the Countrey of Brikioka, to _Maro_, at the time when the Plant Abbati was ripe, of which they made the Liquor that they generally drink at their Humane Banquets: They also landed on Maro about the _Bratti_-Fishing. This _Bratti_ is a Fish of a very delicious taste, either caught in Nets, or shot by the _Tupin Imba_, and carried to their several Habitations. Against these People _Stade_ kept a continual Guard, when _Heliodorus Hesse_, Son to _Eobanus Hesse_, the famous _Latin_ Poet in _Germany_, came to visit him. _Stade_ to entertain his Guest the better, went into the Woods to hunt for Venison, where he was taken by the _Tupin Imba_, of which the King march’d in the Rear with a great Palm-Tree Club, and carried him towards the Sea side, that he, with others that waited on the Shore, might make up a _Kawewipepicke_ (that is, _A Feast of Rosted Men_) But because _Stade_ being a _German_ of a large Body, well-skinn’d, young, plump and fat, they all concluded to spare this Dainty, and carry him alive to _Brikioka_, that with such a Banquet they might highly caress their Wives: But the Journey being long, and a just melancholy possessing him with fear, and the terror of certain death, and to be Food for such ravenous _Cannibals_, so macerated and consum’d him, that he was almost dwindled away to Skin and Bone; whereupon thinking him thus lean to make but few savory Morsels, they chang’d their resolutions, and growing better acquainted, he having learn’d their Tongue, and being able to discourse with them, they lik’d his company so well, that they let him live amongst them. Nine years _Stade_ had been a Slave amongst these Man-eaters, when the _French_ coming thither, bought him for a few Trifles, and carried him to _Normandy_, where landing _Anno 1555._ he went from thence to _Hamburgh_, being his Native Countrey. [Sidenote: _Durande_’s Expedition.] [Sidenote: Dissention in the new Colony.] [Sidenote: Wickedness of _Cointak_ against the Ministers.] [Sidenote: _Durande_ drowns three Religious Men.] _Nicholas Durande_ a _Frenchman_ set Sail from _Havre de Grace_, at the same time when _Stade_ came thither. This _Durande_ having lost a Castle in _Brittain_, to the great prejudice of the _French_, out of a pretence of advancing their Affairs, and to fill up their almost exhausted Treasury, reported, That the _Spanish_ and _Portuguese_ Forces were driven out of _India_, where they had gather’d so much Wealth; and it would certainly redound to the Honor and Profit of _France_, if they could become Masters of the Gold and Silver Mines. King _Henry_ the Second approving of the Proposal, and the more because the Admiral _Gasper Coligni_ was also very earnest, looking upon it as a safe Retreat for the Protestants, at that time cruelly persecuted: and _Durande_, sensible of the Admirals thoughts, privately inform’d him, That in his _American_ Design he chiefly aim’d to plant a True Church of God in _America_, where the Professors might enjoy themselves peaceably. This Report being spread amongst those that call’d themselves _Protestants_, (fled from _Switzerland_ in great numbers to _France_) made many of them venture upon the Design; who having fitted themselves, and setting sail with three Ships, after some time arriv’d on the Coast of _Brasile_, and landed on the _Rock-Island_, in the Haven _Januario_: Here _Durande_ built several Watch-houses, and the Fort _Coligni_, which he fortified with a considerable number of Guns: Not long after he writ to _John Calvin_, That he would please to furnish this new Plantation in _Brasile_ with good and able Teachers of the Gospel; which Request being immediately taken into serious consideration by the Classes, one _Philip Corguileray_, a Gentleman near _Geneva_, set Sail out of the Haven _Honfleurs_, with three Ships, freighted with some Provisions, several Persons of divers Trades, and two Ministers, _Peter Richer_, and _William Chartier_: But he had scarce made _Africa_, when they began to have a scarcity of Victuals; wherefore they turn’d their Design of setling the Gospel in _America_, to Pyracy, where they made small scruple or difference, whether Friends or Foes, but made Prize of all they could light upon, though indeed their Ministers both preach’d and perswaded the contrary, amongst whom a Controversie happening, put other Business into their Heads; for one _John Cointak_, formerly a _Parisian Sorbonist_, was also amongst those that remov’d from _Geneva_, who pretended that _Coligni_ had promis’d him a Ministers place, so soon as he landed at _Brasile_; but _Richer_ and _Chartier_, not satisfied that there was any such Promise, and consequently thinking themselves not obliged by his bare Assertion, told him, That themselves being able, under God, to perform the Work, they needed no such Coadjutor: This bred so great a Rancor between them, that _Cointak_ accus’d them for teaching false Doctrine, and chiefly that they did not mix the Wine at their Sacraments with Water, which Father _Clemens_ had strictly commanded. _Durande_, being prevail’d on by the Cardinal of _Lorein_, joyn’d with _Cointak_, and thereupon so sharply persecuted the _Protestants_, that he starv’d several of them, which others to escape fled to the _Brasilians_: Nay, he took _John Du Bordell_, _Matthias Vermeil_, and _Peter Bourdon_, out of their Sick-Beds, and tying their Hands and Feet, threw them headlong from a Rock into the Sea: Soon after which, the bloody Persecutor return’d with ill success to _France_, where he wrote a Book against the Reform’d Religion; but all the Honor which he gain’d was, that all Parties on both sides accounted him a distracted Person. SECT. XIII. _The Expeditions of_ John Ribald, Renatus Laudonier, _and_ Gurgie. [Sidenote: _Florida_ unhappily discover’d.] [Sidenote: _Ribald_’s Voyage.] [Sidenote: The Garrison in _Florida_ in great want.] [Sidenote: Unheard-of Hunger.] _Florida_ being upon the Continent of _America_, and so call’d by _John Pontæus_, who landed there upon _Palm-Sunday_, though _Sebastian Gaboto_ a _Venetian_, imploy’d by _Henry_ the Seventh King of _England_, landed there before, may well be term’d _the_ Europeans _Bloody Stage_, _Pontæus_ being slain here: But _Ferdinand Sotto_ exercis’d against the Inhabitants inhumane Cruelty five years together; yet at last died of a deep discontent, because he could not reach his Aims, having condemn’d so many _Floridans_ fruitlesly to dig for Gold in the Mines. However, since that, _Julian Sumanus_ and _Peter Ahumada_ undertook the Work anew, but with the like bad Success. _Anno 1545._ one _Lodowick Cancello_, a _Dominican_, thought to effect great things with four of his Associates; but landing on _Florida_, was destroy’d by the Natives. But _Gasper Coligni_ the Marshal, neither discourag’d by these miserable Proceedings, nor the former Treachery of _Durande_, prepar’d for a new Expedition thither; and accordingly _John Ribald_ was fitted with two Ships from _Diep_, at the Charge of _Charles_ the Ninth King of _France_, wherewith having sail’d thirty Degrees Northern Latitude, he came before the Promontory of _Francisco_, where he ran up into the Mouth of a wide River, to which he gave the denomination of _Dolphin_, upon whose Banks were whole Mulberry-Woods, which nourish’d Silk-Worms in strange abundance. From hence he sail’d by the _Wolves Head_ (a Point so call’d, because great numbers of Wolves breed there) and leaving the _Cedar-Island_, landed on _Florida_, where he built a Triangular Fort, and having furnish’d it with Men, Guns, and Provisions, sail’d back for more Supplies to _France_; but coming thither, found all things in disorder, occasion’d by a War amongst themselves; so that the _French_ which guarded and dwelt in the Fort, waited in vain for Relief, and their Provisions growing scant, thought it fittest and their best way to build a Vessel, and sail from thence; which having effected, and being gone about the third part of their Voyage there hapned such a Calm for twenty Days, that they made not the least way, which drove them to so great extremity, their Provisions being spent, that they drank their own Urine, and fed upon their old Shoes, which also in a short time failing, they agreed amongst themselves to kill and eat one of their Sea-men, call’d _Henry Lacher_, on whose Flesh they liv’d some days; but being again driven to the greatest want imaginable, in this extremity of Desparation, their Condition being altogether hopeless, an _English_ Frigat discovering them, and observing by their manner of Sailing that they were in some great want, drawing near, sent their Long-boat aboard, and found them so weak, that they were not able to handle their Tack; whereupon generously taking pity of them, they reliev’d them, and conducted them to the Coast of England, and then brought them to Queen _Elizabeth_, who had formerly design’d to rig a Fleet for _Florida_. [Sidenote: _Laudonier_’s Voyage.] [Sidenote: Remarkable difference in the _French_ Fleet.] Mean while, no News having been heard of the foremention’d _French_ Plantation in _Brasile_, and _Coligni_’s Difference with the King being decided, he prevail’d so much, that _Renatus Laudonier_ should with three Ships sail to relieve the Garrison in the late deserted Fort. _Laudonier_ landing in _Nova Francia_, found a Stone with a _French_ Inscription, plac’d on the Shore by _Ribald_, and hung full of Laurel Garlands: Then he visited the King _Saturiona_, whose Son _Atorcus_ had several Children by his own Mother, according to a Salvage Custom observ’d in that Countrey. Whilst they stay’d here, a Fiery Meteor appear’d in the Sky, with such fervor, that some Rivers boyl’d with the heat of it, and the Fish parboyl’d, died; nay more, it scorch’d all the Plants far and near: The Natives ascrib’d this Plague to the _French_ Cannons, by which means they stood in great fear of the _French_, who might have done great things had not they differ’d amongst themselves; For a Sea-man nam’d _Rubel Patracon_, pretending to have skill in _Necromancy_, would undertake to shew the Places where the Gold and Silver Mines were, which the rest of the Sea-men believing, rebell’d against _Laudonier_, and though sick, imprison’d him, forcing him to sign a Writing to this effect, That the two Ships, of which the Rebels made _Vassar_ and _Trincant_ Commanders, should with his leave and permittance sail to _New Spain_ for Provisions. Whilst they were preparing for their Voyage, _Rupiferrir_ having been sent to the King _Utina_, came back with many rich Presents, and withal brought Information of the Gold and Silver Mynes _Apalatica_; but _Vassar_ and _Trincant_ taking no notice thereof, set forth, and took a _Spanish_ Carvel, richly laden before _Havana_, whose Commander they agreed to release on the payment of a great Ransom; but the Masters Son being sent ashore to fetch the Money which they had agreed for, in stead thereof, made his Fathers Mischance known; whereupon two great Frigats and a Galley were the next Morning very early sent to attaque the _French_, between whom was a sharp Encounter; but in a short time the two Pyrats were sunk, and the Prisoners sold for Slaves, excepting a few that escap’d in their Long-boat. [Sidenote: Great cruelty of the _Spaniards_ against the _French_.] [Sidenote: _Gurgie_’s valiant Exploits against the _Spaniards_.] In this interim _Laudonier_ receiving no Supply from _France_, was brought to great extremity; for the Rebels had carried great part of his Store with them. In these straights he was forc’d by those that staid with him, contrary to the Articles of Peace lately made with King _Utina_, to take him Prisoner, in hopes that for his Liberty he would procure them some Provisions; but the Inhabitants incens’d at the baseness of so unexpected an Action, could not be wrought upon by any means to give them Relief; but grown more perverse than before, appointed a general Meeting to elect another King; so that out of all hopes, they utterly gave themselves over for lost. In this desperate condition, _John Haukins_, a great Sea-Captain, came thither with four _English_ Ships, who pitying their misery, furnish’d them with Necessaries, and having onely four Vessels, lent them one, because _Laudonier_ was at that time too weak to endure the Sea; but not long after recovering strength, and all things ready to set Sail, _Ribald_ came to an Anchor before _Charles-Fort_, with seven Ships from _Diep_: Within few days after, the _Spanish_ Admiral _Peter Melandez_ arriv’d with eight Frigats, whereof the French having Intelligence, cut their Cables, and stood out to Sea, whom the _Spaniards_ chac’d, but could not reach; whereupon leaving them, they landed in the Mouth of the River _Dolphin_, where by help of the _Moorish_ Slaves they began to intrench themselves; of which _Ribald_ having notice, immediately sail’d thither, at least to disturb, if not absolutely drive them from their Work; but surpriz’d in the way by a great Storm, lost most of his Fleet, ingag’d among the Rocks; yet the Men were most of them sav’d. In this Storm the _Spaniards_ also suffer’d great damage, yet made an Advantage of the _Frenchmens_ Misfortune, marching with all speed to _Charles-Fort_, in which were onely two hundred weak Men, _Ribald_ having taken the primest Soldiers along with him. In the Morning before Sun-rise the _Spaniards_ made a fierce Assault, and in a short time became Masters of the Place, which _Laudonier_ seeing, fled in a Boat; others leaping from the Walls into the Moat, sav’d themselves by swimming: Whoever fell into the Victors Hands, was without mercy slain; nay, such was the _Spaniards_ inveterate malice to the _French_, that wanting living Bodies, they exercis’d their Cruelty upon the dead, pulling out their Eyes, and cutting off their Members, carrying them in Triumph on the Points of their Swords. In the interim, the Storm ceasing, _Ribald_ approach’d _Charles-Fort_, with his shatter’d Fleet, but was so amaz’d when he saw the _Spanish_ Flag set upon the Walls, and _Vallemond_ marching towards him with a Squadron of _Spaniards_, that although a River lay between them, yet he presently came to a Treaty, and deliver’d up all his Men, being above four hundred, upon promise of good Quarter; but the _Spaniards_ in stead of keeping their Agreement, bound them, leading them all to the Castle, where, both against their Articles, and the Law of Arms, they massacred them, and burnt their Bodies; but _Ribald_ being quarter’d, they fix’d his Limbs upon Poles about the Walls, sending his Head to _Sevil_. When _Charles_ the Ninth, King of _France_, receiv’d notice hereof, he was not in the least concern’d at the _Spanish_ Cruelty us’d to his Subjects, out of a particular hatred to _Coligni_, the first Promoter of the Voyage. But though the _French_ Crown so little regarded the inhumane Usage committed by the _Spaniards_ in _Charles-Fort_, yet _Dominicus Gurgie_ shew’d himself so highly concern’d thereat, that turning all his Goods into Money, he levied two hundred Soldiers, and fourscore Sea-men, which he put aboard three small Ships, pretending that he would onely touch at _Brasile_; but sailing beyond _Cuba_, he stood directly for _Florida_, where after his Landing he was kindly receiv’d by _Saturiona_ the King, who complaining much against the _Spaniards_ Oppressions, sent to joyn with him his Kinsman _Olotocara_, having the Command of a great Army. [Sidenote: Is ungratefully rewarded.] The _Spaniards_ by this time had not onely strengthned _Charles-Fort_, but also rais’d two others on each side of the River _Mayo_, in which three Holds lay Garrison’d above four hundred choice Soldiers. Those in the new Forts made little resistance; but quitting the same, and flying into a neighboring Wood, fell into an Ambuscade of _Indians_, who slew thirty of them, and preserv’d ninety for a Publick Execution. Thus they march’d on victoriously to _Charles-Fort_, where by the way sixty _Spaniards_ sallying out, were every one cut off, which much facilitated the _Frenchmens_ Work. The Governor _Melandez_, seeing a certain ruine attend him, fled into the Woods; but met there by the _Floridans_, return’d to the _French_, of whom he begg’d Life for himself, and some of his People: Yet _Gurgie_ deaf to all intreaties, would hear nothing, but pressing on, took them all Prisoners, and as a just Reward of their Cruelty to his Countrey-men, hang’d them on the next Trees: After which Execution, it can scarce be express’d how kindly the Natives entertain’d the _French_, because they had freed the Countrey from the _Spanish_ Oppressions. Thus having accomplish’d his Design, and returning home, he was nobly receiv’d at _Rochel_, but had not the least Countenance for all his trouble from the King; the Cardinal of _Lorein_ telling him, _That for his good Service he ought to suffer death, because he had fitted out three Ships upon his own Account, without Authority_. SECT. XIV. _Four_ English _Expeditions, under the Conduct of our Famous Sea-Captains_ Martin Forbisher, _Sir_ Francis Drake, Thomas Candish, _and_ John Smith. [Sidenote: _Forbisher_’s Expedition.] Captain _Forbisher_ sailing to the Northern Parts of _America_, _Anno 1576._ chusing a bad time, the Year being too much spent, and the Ocean so full of Ice, that it forc’d him to return to _England_: Not many Months after, he renew’d his Voyage, Queen _Elizabeth_ having rigg’d out, and sent under his Command one Frigat and two Ketches, Mann’d with a hundred and forty Men: The twenty sixth of _May_ he weigh’d Anchor, and sail’d to the _Orkenies_, lying to the North of _Scotland_, where landing, he found the poor Islanders fled out of their Huts, into Caves and Dens among the Rocks. From thence he steer’d North-North-West, through abundance of floating Pieces of Timber, which oftentimes gave him great stops. The fourth of _July_ he made _Friezland_, where he met with a great Storm of Hail, mix’d with Snow: Before the Shore lay a great Ridge of Ice, which hindred for a while their Landing: Here he saw several Wild People, but could not come to speak with them; for upon the least approach they fled; yet when they saw any advantage, made resistance: At last, three of them came unarm’d to the Shore, beckoning _Forbisher_ to come to them; which he had done, had not great numbers of the Natives appear’d too soon from an Ambuscade in a Wood, and behind a Hill, who seeing themselves discover’d, march’d up into the Countrey, three onely staying on the Shore, of whom the middlemost feigning to be lame, at last fell down, whom his Companions took up, and carried a little way, but then forsook, by which the _English_ observing their Design, shot that the Sand flew all about him; whereupon forgetting his Lameness, he ran as swift as a Deer up a Hill. _Forbisher_’s Men had by this time fill’d two Barrels with a Mineral not unlike Gold, but was afterwards found to be of little value. Nothing else of Remark did he find here, except great long-hair’d Men, who being exceeding salvage, subtilly plot nothing else but to murder, lurking for Men, like Wild Beasts for their Prey, whom, when caught, they tear in pieces. Close fitted to their Bodies, they wore the Skins of several Wild Beasts, priding in the Tails which hung down betwixt their Legs. Their Tents are of conjoyn’d Whalebones, cover’d over with the like Skins, the Entrance always facing the South. They use Bowes, Arrows, Slings, and two sorts of Boats: In the biggest they can carry seventeen Men, which are made of several Wooden Planks clinch’d together, and cased on both sides with Leather: The smallest ones are cover’d just in the same manner, much resembling a Weavers Shuttle, having in the middle a Hole, wherein a Man sits, who drawing the Cover of the Boat about his Waste by Strings, with one Oar makes swift Passage. The Countrey it self is barren, yet feeds abundance of Deer, Hares, Wolves, Bears, and Dogs like Wolves, whose Flesh serves the Inhabitants for Food. This Countrey seems to be exceedingly troubled with great Earthquakes, because several pieces of Rocks, and whole Mountains rent asunder, may be seen in divers places. The fourth of _August_, _Forbisher_ having elevated the Pole to sixty eight Degrees, beyond what _Sebastian Cabot_, the first Discoverer of those Parts, and set out by _Henry_ the Seventh, had done (for _America_ Northward never before had been so far penetrated) and laden with a sort of shining Sand, which he believ’d might contain much of a Golden Oar, having with him three of the Natives, _viz._ a Man, a Woman, and a Child, set Sail for _England_, and the seventh of _September_ came to _Milford_-Haven, and not long after arriv’d in _London_, where in short time the Salvages died. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Sir _Francis Drake_’s Expedition.] At the same time when _Forbisher_ sail’d Northerly, Sir _Francis Drake_ also, fitted out by Queen _Elizabeth_, steer’d another Course, sailing by _Cape Blanko_ and _Cape Verde_, along the _African_ Coast, to _Brasile_, where he caught several Sea-Wolves, and Anchoring in the River _La Plata_, furnish’d himself with Fresh Water: Then proceeding on his Voyage through the crooked _Straights of Magellan_, he came to an Anchor before _Moucha_, wash’d by the _South Sea_. The Islanders receiv’d him very courteously, because they were inform’d that the _English_ were at great Wars with the _Spaniards_, to avoid whose Cruelties, they had deserted the main Continent, and setled on _Moucha_. One of these _Mouchaners_ going aboard, serv’d them for a Pilot to the Haven _Valparizo_, where _Drake_ burnt the _St. Jago_, a small Village, and plundring all the Countrey about it, got together a great Treasure of Gold and Silver. Before _Arica_ he took three _Spanish_ Ships, richly laden; and before _Lima_, four more, having an unvaluable Treasure of Pearls and Gold aboard them. Thus inrich’d, he steer’d his Course Northerly to forty two Degrees; but the Cold forcing him to fall four Degrees to the Southward, he discover’d a very pleasant and inhabited Coast, the People whereof shew’d him great kindness: The King himself coming aboard with a great Train, set a Crown of Gold upon _Drakes_ Head, and gave him a Golden Scepter, and an Ivory Chain. After this he inspected the Islands _Tidor_, _Ternata_, _Java_, _Zeilon_, and _Cape de Bona Esperanza_, from whence, after a three Years Voyage, having encompass’d the World, he came safe to _London_, where he rested not long; for sailing _Anno 1585._ to _America_, he took great Prizes from the Cities _St. Jago_, _St. Domingo_, _St. Augustin_, and _Carthagena_, setting them all on Fire. Thus again returning home victoriously, and after the famous defeat of the _Spanish Armado_, he rigg’d out a new Fleet, having for his Vice-Admiral Captain _Hawkins_: Their Design was to have sail’d to _Panama_; but both dying, and so the Commission ceasing, the expected great and golden Project also died with them. [Sidenote: _Candish_ his Expedition.] A Year after the death of these famous Navigators, Captain _Thomas Candish_ Mann’d with a hundred and twenty Men, and Provisions for two Years, setting sail in a lucky Hour, a second time encompass’d the World, passing the _Straights of Magellan_; in which Voyage having got above ten times the value of his Charge, by taking the _Spanish_ Carrack _St. Anna_, valued at twenty Tun of Gold; and at last freighted with a Mass of Treasure, he came safe into the River of _Thames_. [Sidenote: _Smith_’s Voyage.] But much worse success had Captain _John Smith_, who weigh’d Anchor _Anno 1614._ with two Ships, fitted out by several Merchants in _London_, for _New-England_, and on the Island _Monachigga_ to load Copper, Gold, and other Minerals that were to be had there, and also to fish for Whales: But there were no such Minerals to be found there, nor any Whales to be taken on the Coast, because the time of the Year was past; so that he return’d home without Success. However, not long after, they undertook the same Expedition a second time, but with worse Fortune; for being gotten in sight of _Virginia_, he was treacherously set upon, and taken by the _French_, who accus’d him, that he had destroy’d the Plantations in _Nova Francia_, and unless he would make satisfaction for the Damage, they threatned him with death. He was carried Prisoner to _Rochel_, in a _French_ Ship; but not far from thence surpris’d by a mighty Storm, _Smith_ finding an opportunity, leap’d into the Boat, and driving betwixt the Waves, at last, half dead, was thrown upon the Island of _Oleron_, whom afterwards, having lost all, an _English_ Ship took in, and brought to his Native Countrey. SECT. XV. Netherland _Expedition by_ Jaques Mahu, _and_ Simon de Cordes. [Sidenote: _Mahu_’s Voyage.] Five Ships being fitted out at _Rotterdam_, the Command of them was given to _Jaques Mahu_ and _Simon de Cordes_, who on the twenty seventh of _June, Anno 1598._ weigh’d Anchor from the _Goree_, and sail’d on an immense Voyage; at last landing at the Island _St. Jago_, they won a strong Castle there, and took two Barques; but at last Articled with the _Portuguese_, that they might undisturb’d supply themselves with Fresh Water, yet they, as if they minded no Agreements, whilst the _Dutch_ were filling their Casks, came down upon them with two hundred Horse, each having a Foot-Soldier behind him; but the _Hollanders_ made so stout resistance, that they put them all to flight. The City of _St. Jago_, which gives Denomination to the whole Island, is built long-wise, having a convenient Haven, like a Crescent: Through the City glides a River, on both sides of which, beyond the Town, arise several high Mountains: That part which faces the Sea, hath Fortifications, defended with strong Bulwarks. The _Portuguese_ had brought all their Guns to bear towards the Sea, to sink the _Holland Ships_, which they invited thither under pretence of kindness; but a great Storm hindred the Fleet, that they could not Anchor at the appointed place; onely two of the Ships sail’d pretty near, but not within Shot. [Illustration: St. IAGO] From hence steering to the Desolate Island _Brava_, they saw nothing but five ruin’d Houses, the Door of one stopp’d up with great Stones, which being taken away, was found full of _Turkish_ Wheat, which prov’d a great kindness to the Sea-men. [Sidenote: _Mahu_ dies.] [Sidenote: _Cordes_ his Voyage.] Mean while the Admiral _Mahu_ died, and his Body put into a Chest fill’d up with Stones, was thrown over-board; so that _Simon des Cordes_ carrying the Flag, steer’d his Course to _Guinee_, there to refresh himself; for most of his Men were so weakned by the Scurvey, that they were scarce able to hand the Sails. [Sidenote: Strange King in _Guinee_.] Arriving at their intended Port, the Sick were carried ashore; and the Vice-Admiral _Beuningen_, being conducted by a _French_ Guide, went to the Vice-Roy of that Countrey, who sat on a low Bench, with a Sheeps-skin under his Feet, in a Violet-colour’d Cloth Suit, without any Linnen, Shirt, Shoes, or Stockins; on his Head a Cap made of yellow, red, and blue Eastern Cloth; his Face whitened with Ashes, shew’d in several places its natural blackness, appearing through the Colours; about his Neck a Collar or Chain of Glass Beads: Behind him sat his Nobles, with Cocks Feathers on their Heads, and their Skins painted Red. _Beuningen_ plac’d by the King on a Mat, complain’d to him, That the _Guineans_ fled from him where-ever he came, though in Friendship, to barter _European_ Commodities with them, against Fruits, Poultrey, Sheep, and other Provisions: Whereupon the King promis’d to furnish him therewith, and invited _Beuningen_ to Dinner. After some stay, the Kings Wives entred the Palace, a very mean and ill-favour’d Building, more like a great Barn than a Kings House, and plac’d a kind of nasty Trough on the Ground, in which lay nothing but some wild Herbs, and a piece of a smoak’d Sea-Calf; and though he was a Person of the largest size, and corpulent, yet he eat sparingly. _Beuningen_, though exceeding hungry, found little rellish in such kind of Meats; wherefore spreading a Napkin, his Attendants brought him some Bisket and _Spanish_ Wine, whereof after the King had tasted, he lik’d so well the rellish, that it rock’d him asleep, whilst _Beuningen_ walk’d to the Sea-side to refresh himself; but the _Guineans_ coming about him, he was forc’d to return to the King, who waking at the noise, appear’d highly incens’d at his People, and took _Beuningen_ into his House: However the Subjects, notwithstanding the Kings Commands, when _Beuningen_ was sent into a neighboring Hut, kept Watch about it all Night: The next Morning early an old Woman entred, muttering to her self, and went out and in to _Beuningen_ three times one after another, knocking on a Box not unlike a Pair of Bellows, out of which flew abundance of Dust about _Beuningen_, which caus’d a great Laughter amongst the _Guineans_. The King also coming to him, presented him with two Goats, and four Hens, and so conducted him back to the Ships. [Sidenote: Bloody Sea, very strange.] [Sidenote: Salvages in the _Straights of Magellan_.] _Beuningen_ seeing that there was no good to be done, set sail from thence, and coming before the River _La Plata_ in _America_, it appear’d Blood-red. Out of the Water which was taken up in Buckets, started a sort of Insects like Fleas, which caus’d a strange and sad Distemper amongst the Sea-men, that when any Meat was offer’d to them, so soon as ever they put it to their Mouths, they would fall down backwards in a swoon, foaming and frothing at the Mouth, and turning up the White of their Eyes, die distracted. Suffering under this Disaster, they hasted from thence with all speed, and sailing into the _Straights of Magellan_ they kill’d above fourteen hundred _Penguyins_, which is a Bird that preys on Fish, and lives in Holes under Ground; they somewhat resemble a Goose, onely they stand more upright, and are double-crested, with two plumy Combs. Coming to an Anchor in the _Green-Bay_, there arose a great Storm, which continued several days, so that they were forc’d to moor their Vessels with four Anchors, extremely afflicted both with Hunger and Cold, preserving themselves alive by eating young Grout, at that time not above a span high from the Ground; but this course Food bred an incurable Dropsie, that posted them on to a sudden death. Afterwards, when the Weather grew more pleasant, the Inhabitants being Gyants, most of them eleven Foot high, grew more troublesom, oftentimes assailing them, and throwing Darts pointed like Harping-Irons, at which they were very expert. Their Salvage Natures may appear by their Dealings with the dead _Hollanders_, cutting off their Heads, and bruising them to pieces, sticking Darts through their Hearts, and cutting off their Privities. [Sidenote: A wild Woman.] At last the Fleet getting into the _South Sea_, were by stress of Weather separated one from another: Two Ships, being the _Faith_, and the _Good Tydings_, were driven back into the _Straights of Magellan_, where they suffer’d the uttermost extremity of Hunger: Here they took a wild Woman, and two Children, who being of a sallow Complexion, had a great hanging Belly, a wide Mouth, crooked Legs, long Heels, and Breasts like Cows Udders; about her Neck a String of Snail-shells, and upon her Back a Beasts Skin, fastned about her Neck with the Sinews of it; her Food nought else but live Fowls: The same Diet the Children fed upon: The youngest being but six Months old, had his Mouth full of Teeth, and ran without any help: The eldest they carried to _Amsterdam_; but having kept the Woman aboard two Nights, they gave her several Trifles, and set her ashore. Here they found old Ice in the middle of Summer, four Foot thick. _Beuningen_ lingred in the _Straights of Magellan_, and being tired out with Hunger, Cold, and Storms, return’d home; and had they not by accident taken abundance of Coneys, they had all perish’d. Above two Years had this unhappy Voyage lasted, when they arriv’d at their Native Countrey, with six and thirty Men, being all that remain’d alive of a hundred and five. SECT. XVI. _The Expedition of_ Oliver van Noord. [Sidenote: _Porto Desire._] [Sidenote: Sea-Dogs.] Two Months after _Mahu_, _Oliver Van Noord_ set sail with four Ships, and two hundred forty eight Men, from the _Maes_. Having reach’d the _Princes Island_, he lost seven of his Men by the Treachery of the _Portuguese_; and Anchoring before the City _Javeiro_, he was no better entertain’d by the same Nation: Here having a Rencounter, and both Sides receiving considerable Loss, he steer’d for St. _Sebastian_, a fruitful Island, producing an Herb very wholesom against the _Scurvey_: Here the Sea-men found great store of Sea-Mews, and Parrots, besides several sorts of delicious Fish. The approaching Winter advis’d them from entring the _Straights of Magellan_ so late; wherefore they judg’d it best to seek a convenient Harbor, to put their Sick ashore to refresh themselves. The Island _St. Hellen_, for its fruitfulness, seem’d to be the most convenient for this purpose; but a great Storm preventing them, they came to _St. Clara_, where taking in Fresh Water, they cast Anchor in _Porto Desire_. In this Haven they saw a kind of Sea-Dogs, whose fore-parts being overgrown with long Hair, seem’d like a Lyon, and the Feet like Mens Hands; over their Eyes and Upper-lips grew black and white Hair, which in Stormy Weather stands staring upright, but in Calm, lies flat and smooth; they Urine backwards, sleep very soundly, and cast their Young every Month: Their Flesh well-boyl’d prov’d a savory Dish. [Sidenote: Strange Tombs.] _Van Noord_ going ashore here, saw not a Man; but only Burying-places on high Rocks, built of red Stones, and adorn’d both within and without with Bowes, Arrows, and other strange things: Under the Heads of the Dead lay four-square Shells, and other things artificially carv’d. Curiosity made them desirous to make a further search into the Countrey; wherefore he rowed during a whole Tide up a River; and when their Boat ran aground at the time of Ebb, he walk’d several Leagues up into the Countrey, where he saw nothing but Deer, Buffles, and Ostriches: and because he saw no People, he judg’d the Coast to be uninhabited; but returning again, he found it otherwise; for the Sea-men, though commanded to stay in the Boat, which lay in the middle of the River, went ashore, where they were so fiercely set upon by thirty of the Natives, that three of them were kill’d, and another wounded in the Leg. These People are very strong and Salvage, with painted Faces, and long Hair; but after this Encounter, they saw no more of them. But _Van Noord_ having spent fourteen Months in search, and lost a hundred Men, set sail again with three Ships; for one of them, being the _Unity_, he burnt at the Island _Clara_, where he Winter’d, because of a great Leak which could not be stopp’d. Here they brought five thousand Fowls aboard, which much increased their Stock of Provisions. From hence parting the Wide Ocean, into the _Straights of Magellan_, four times the Fleet attempted to go into the _South-Sea_, and was as often driven back by cross Weather into the _Straights_; but the fifth time prov’d more successful; for having got through, and left the _Straights_ a handsom way astern, they discover’d two Islands, from one of which the Sea-men going aland, brought four Boys and two Girls; who afterward instructed in their Tongue, inform’d them concerning the scituation of the Countreys thereabout. [Sidenote: _Philip-Stadt_ forsaken through famine.] After that, the Fleet Sail’d into _Hungers Haven_, where they found the ruines of the deserted _Philip-Stadt_, which Captain _Thomas Candish_ had seen fourteen years before, fortifi’d with four Bulwarks; but now onely some Houses, a Church, and a Gibbet were standing: Four hundred _Spaniards_ built that City, as a Key to the _Straights_ of _Magellan_. But all their Provisions being spent in three years time, and no relief coming from _Spain_, and what they Sow’d expecting the hopes of a Harvest, the Salvages coming down by night destroy’d; which caus’d so great a Famine to rage amongst them, that many dy’d, not so much as putting off their Clothes, who lying in the Houses unbury’d, occasion’d such a stench in the City, that the remainder fled into the Field; where they liv’d a whole year by the Fruits of the Trees, Herbs, and Roots: At last, three and twenty of them, amongst which were two Women remaining yet alive, resolv’d to travel to the River _La Plata_ and accordingly set forward, but what became of them could never yet be heard, only one _Ferdinando_ that was of that company, accidentally wandring from the rest, happen’d to light upon _Candish_’s Fleet. [Sidenote: _Mocha_, what kind of Island.] Here _Van Noord_ set on Shore the Vice-Admiral _Jacob Claeszoon Ilpendam_, for some crimes which he had committed; and leaving him behind, Sail’d from thence thorow the South-Sea along the Coast of _Chili_ and _Mocha_; which Island, of a considerable bigness, rises in the middle with a forked Mountain, from which a convenient River comes flowing down into the Countrey. [Sidenote: _Cica_, a strange Drink.] The Inhabitants conducted the _Hollanders_ to their Village, consisting of about fifty Houses built of Straw, but were forbid to go into their Huts: Upon the Mens call the Women appear’d, which being divided into three parties, humbly kneel’d down before them; and soon after an old Woman brought an Earthen Can full of _Cica_, a Liquor made of _Mays_, whose extracted Juyce, boyl’d and put into Tubs, ferments like our Beer or Ale, with a cap of Barm, with which they treated the _Hollanders_, who drinking moderately, were well refresh’d; but the Natives will ply this Liquor, till they make themselves Distracted, and are mad Drunk. [Sidenote: _Van Noord_ takes a _Spanish_ Ship.] From hence _Van Noord_ steer’d his course to _Sancta Maria_, where in his way he took a _Spanish_ Ship, call’d _Buon Jesus_, that is, _Good Jesus_, and receiv’d intelligence from the Prisoners, that the Admiral _Simon de Cordes_, with twenty three Men was kill’d by the _Americans_ on the Promontory _Lavapia_, being the head Land or Point opposite to _St. Maries_; that a year since, tydings were brought to _Lima_ of his Fleet; so that they had made all things ready to withstand him. But _Van Noord_ hinder’d by strong contrary Winds, not able to reach _Sancta Maria_, stood directly for _St. Jago_, in whose Haven lay a great _Spanish_ Ship full of _Indians_, and two other going in, which two he set on Fire, and the third he Tow’d towards his Fleet; repenting extremely that he had given liberty, and set _Francisco de Ivarro_ Commander of the _Buon Jesus_ ashore; because he afterwards understood from the _Spanish_ Pilot, that _Ivarra_ threw ten thousand two hundred pound weight of Gold, pack’d in fifty two Cases, over-board, when he observ’d that he was like to loose his Ship. The Fleet Sailing forward came to an Anchor before the _Thieves-Island_, whose Inhabitants are very light Finger’d, go stark naked, and are of great strength; they found the Women much Disfigur’d, their Noses, Lips, and Cheek-bones eaten by the _French_ Pox. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Performs great things.] In the Bay _La Baya_, the _Dutch_ Admiral, with a _Spanish_ Flag on his top-Mast, sent one of his Sea-men in a Fryers garb ashore, if possible under that disguise, to get Provisions; which falling out according to their Design, they were supply’d with all manner of Victuals: After that, the _Hollanders_ burnt five Villages on the Island _Capull_; took a _Chinesy_ Vessel, one _Spanish_ Barque, and a _Carvel_ Laden with Brandy from _Cocos_; and after a great and bloody Fight sunk the Admiral of the _Manilla_’s, and so at last with various fortunes arriv’d at _Rotterdam_, having in three years encompass’d the World. SECT. XVIA. _The Expedition_ of George Van Spilbergen. _Anno 1614._ the eighth of _August_, the _East-India_ Company of the _United Netherlands_ set out seven Ships under the Command of _George Spilbergen_, who coming to _Cape St. Vincent_, and engaging with the _Portuguese_, took one of their Ships, and so proceeded on his Voyage to the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, but by a huge Storm, the Fleet was separated. Amongst those that were scatter’d was the good Ship call’d _Meruw_, in which some of the crew had conspir’d to have kill’d the Master, and seiz’d the Vessel; but he having some inkling thereof, set so stoutly upon two of the chief Contrivers with his drawn Hanger, that he forc’d them to leap over-board, and as stoutly ordering the rest, set all to rights. [Sidenote: Strange Corps.] But _Spilbergen_ Landing on one of the _Penguyn_ Islands, found two Dead Bodies just cover’d with Earth, about their Necks was a Chain of glistering Snail Shells neatly strung; the Grave stuck full of Bowes and Arrows, was pleasant to look upon, between several high Mountains, whose tops lay bury’d in Snow: The Fleet came out of the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, but not without great danger, for the South-Sea much disturb’d by tempestuous Weather, seem’d to raise its Waves up to the Sky, so that they had enough to do, from being ingag’d among the Rocks: But at last with great difficulty, wonderfully escaping all danger, they Anchor’d before _La Mocha_, an Island which on the North side lies low, and on the South defended by Rocks. [Sidenote: _Spilbergen_ in great danger.] [Sidenote: Strange sheep.] _Spilbergen_ seeing abundance of Men standing on the Shore, Row’d thither to Barter for Merchandize, amongst them was a Sheep with a long Neck, bunch-Back’d like a Camel, a little Mouth, and long Legs; which Beast serves them in stead of Horses, to carry their burthens, and perform their Tillage. The _Americans_ breed up these Sheep every where, by reason of the extraordinary benefit they receive from them, some of them keeping no less than eighteen hundred. Their Shepherds ride upon a Beast almost like an Ox, and carry in their hands Copper-plates, hung round about with Bells, which they shake, making a different noise when their Sheep shall go in or out; and on their Heads wear Feathers like Coronets, standing upright. [Sidenote: St. _Maries_ burnt.] [Sidenote: And also _Val Parysa_.] From thence, _Spilbergen_ departing, Landed at last on the Island of _St. Mary_, where he burnt all the _Spanish_ Villages; as he did also in _Val Parysa_. After going ashore, in the Haven _Quintero_, he saw abundance of Wild Horses drinking out of a Rivulet, supply’d with fresh Water from an adjoyning steep Mountain; so soon as they espy’d Men, they instantly running away, were seen no more. [Sidenote: Bloody fight between the _Hollanders_ and _Spanish_ Fleet.] Having left _Quintero_, and spent a Moneth in Sailing farther, they discry’d eight great Ships; whereupon the Prisoners inform’d them, that it was the _Spanish_ Fleet, of which _Roderigo de Mendoza_ was Admiral, fitted out on purpose to fight _Spilbergen_, whose coming (as we said) was known a year before. At midnight _Mendoza_ Boarded _Spilbergen_, but was so roughly receiv’d, that he was forc’d to Retreat with the loss of the Ship _St. Francisco_. At Day-break, the _Holland_ Admiral fir’d at _Mendoza_, who answering with equal courage, occasion’d a smart Engagement, wherein the _Spaniards_ were so hard beset, that they put forth a White Flag; but it was immediately taken in again by the Commanders aboard, choosing rather to die, than surrender, because they had mock’d at _Mendoza_, when he hinted the difficulty of the Enterprize in the Grand _Peruvian_ Councel, saying, _They went out, onely to take a few disabled_ Hollanders, _and tying them hand and feet, carry them to Execution_. Yet their high and proud Stomachs prov’d very fatal to them, for afterwards totally routed and put to flight, most of them sunk by the way. [Sidenote: _Calyow de Lima._] This done, the _Hollanders_ victoriously Sail’d to _Calyow de Lima_, having a convenient Haven: The City adorn’d with curious Houses and Temples, is strengthen’d by a Platform, Planted with great Guns towards the Sea, and the Shore was guarded by eight Troops of Horse, and four thousand Foot; whereupon _Spilbergen_, who was yet to go so great a Voyage, judg’d it no way convenient to adventure the loss of all on the good or bad event of a Battel, especially being so much over-power’d by the number of the Enemy: Wherefore seeing no hopes of Victory, setting forward to _Guarma_, he got some fresh Provisions. [Sidenote: _Peyta_ burnt.] Against the City _Peyta_, he play’d his Cannon with such fury, that the Townsmen deserted the place, which he observing, set it on fire, and Sail’d to _Aquapulque_, where from the Fort at first the _Spaniards_ fired some Guns at them; but soon after changing humor, they came to an Accommodation, furnishing the _Hollanders_ with convenient Provisions. Passing on, and coming to _Selaques_, both Natives and _Spaniards_ having suffer’d some of the _Hollanders_ to Land; after set upon them treacherously in a Thicket, but to their little advantage, for they made so good a Defence, that the Assailants not able to bear the brunt, fled with great loss. _Spilbergen_ Sailing from hence to the _Manilla_’s, waited there for the _Spanish_ Admiral _Juan de Silva_, who had made (as was reported) great preparations for him long since; but seeing it was in vain, at last he return’d to _Zealand_ where he came to an Anchor, loaden with Riches, in the middle of Summer, _Anno 1617._ SECT. XVII. _The Expedition of_ William Corneliszon Schouten, _and_ Jacob Le Maire. [Sidenote: _Mabrabomma_, what manner of Isle.] [Sidenote: _Schouten_ in great danger.] [Sidenote: Incredible many Eggs.] [Sidenote: Great Corps.] [Sidenote: _Ketch_ burnt.] [Sidenote: Strange Horn.] Some Merchants that were call’d the _Austrian_ Company, fitted out one Ship with sixty five, and a Ketch with two and twenty Sea-men, giving the Command thereof to the Captains _Schouten_ and _Le Maire_: _Anno 1615._ they Weigh’d Anchor from the _Texel_; the first took a view of one of the three Islands, call’d _Mabrabomma_, lying before _Cape Sierra Leona_. This Island appearing a great height out of the Sea, was not inhabited, they seeing onely three Wild Buffles, many Wild Cats, Birds which bark’d like Dogs, Wild Palm-Trees, Lemon-Trees, Turtles, Crocodiles, Partridges, and Storks: From hence, passing by the dangerous Shelf _Abrolhos_, they ran into _Porto Desire_, where on the Rocks they found abundance of Eggs, and Spierings, or Smelts, and Spiregrass sixteen Inches long, wherefore they call’d that Inlet _Spierings-Bay_. Their Sloop also brought two Sea-Lions, and one hundred and fifty _Penguins_ from the _Penguin_ Isles, having Sail’d two Leagues up the River; in the interim, the ground being meer Stone, and their Anchors coming home, the great Ship drove against a Rock, and at Ebbing Water, broke off the outermost Planks and Iron-Work, and the Ketch also striking on a high Shelf, was at low Ebb two Fathom with her Keel above the Water, and had without peradventure been overset, and bilg’d, but a fresh North-West Wind kept her upright, yet at last, the Weather growing calm, she lean’d, but the Tide coming in very fast, set her afloat, so that she was miraculously sav’d; then setting Sail again to _King’s-Island_, they found so many Eggs of black _Mews_, that one without stirring from his place, might reach above fifty Nests, and in each of them at least three Eggs, which they carry’d aboard by thousands. Their Boat Rowing Southerly down the River, found some Ostriches, and Beasts not unlike Stags, but with exceeding long Necks. On the Hills lay Stones heap’d one upon another, which removing, they found Dead Bodies of eleven Foot long; here they spent their time in cleansing their Ships, and new Sheathing the Ketch, but as they were Tallowing, the Flame accidentally got between the Crevisses which immediately taking Fire, in a short time consum’d it to Ashes: The great Ship had gotten a Horn in her Bow, seven Foot under Water; this Horn being firm without any hollowness, and not unlike a great Elephants Tooth, struck thorow two Ashen and one Oaken Plank, sticking in a Rib of the like Wood, and yet above half a Foot remain’d out to be seen. [Sidenote: Great Mews.] At length _Schouten_ Weighing Anchor from _Porto Desire_, and Sailing to four and fifty Degrees Southern Latitude, met whole Shoals of Whales, insomuch, that he was fain to Tacque to and again to shun them. Sea-Pies, bigger than Swans, came flying in great numbers aboard, suffering themselves to be taken with the hand. On the North-side they spy’d a high and scraggy Coast spreading it self to the East South-East, which they call’d, The _States Countrey_, that which lay to the Westward of it, _Maurice_ of _Nassau_, the Islands in fifty seven Degrees _Barnevield_’s Isles, and the sharp Point in which lay the Snowy Mountains, Southward of the _Magellan Straights_ end, the _Cape_ of _Hoorn_. [Sidenote: _Straights Le Maire._] _Schouten_ had now gotten the height of fifty nine Degrees, when he enter’d the South-Sea, through the new passage between _Mauritius_ and the _States-Countrey_, which was call’d from his Partner, _The Straights of Le Maire_. [Sidenote: Isles in the South-Sea.] Near the two Isles _Juan Fernando_, they found great store of Fish, after that they view’d these Islands, that lay scatter’d up and down the South-Sea, each of them they nam’d according to their several occasions, calling the first, _The Isle of Dogs_, because they have abundance of Dogs there that could not bark: Another, _The Bottomless Island_, because the Sea was so deep about it, that they could not come to an Anchor. The Inhabitants who go naked, with their Skins pounced full of strange shapes, of blue Snakes, Dragons, and such like Creatures, Salli’d out of the Woods upon the _Hollanders_ with great Clubs, to which was fasten’d the Sword or Snout of a Sword-Fish, and also with Slings. Somewhat further they came to _Water-Land_, and _Flyes-Island_, the first so nam’d, because the Shore round about was planted with Trees, but in the middle all lay cover’d with Salt-Water; the other from the _Flyes_, which with incredible numbers troubled the Sea-men four days together. [Sidenote: Strange entertainment at the Horn Islands.] Moreover, the Reception or Entertainment which _Schouten_ was welcom’d withal, at the _Hoorn-Islands_, being very remarkable, we will in brief relate: Anchoring in nine Fathom Water, Shelly ground, before a fresh Rivulet, three _Hollanders_ sent to the King were by him courteously entertain’d, who with strange humility, not bow’d, but kissing their Feet fell flat on the ground, and put the _Hollanders_ Feet upon his Neck; and after this manner of Salutation, waited upon them aboard: Yet although this King fawn’d so much, and seem’d so humble, yet he was very severe over his Subjects, for finding one that had filch’d a Sword, he not onely brought and restor’d it, but immediately Executed the Thief before their Faces. _Le Maire_ and _Arias Claeszoon_ were much honor’d here, for the old and young King put their Crowns on their Heads, curiously Wrought of fine White Feathers, and the end adorn’d with small Red and Green Feathers; they gave also to each of them a Pigeon, White to their Wings, the hinder part Black, and under their Bellies Red. In the interim, the King of _Water-Island_ visited the other, by whom _Le Maire_ was treated: When they met, they made strange shews of Honor to each other, but at last shew’d their Salvageness by eating raw Fish, and rudely Dancing before the _Hollanders_. _Le Maire_ going into the Countrey, and climbing up a high Mountain, saw nothing but Morass Wilds, and Vallies, lying under Water: The King and his Retinue here kept him company, during his stay there, when weary with walking, they sate down together under Coco-Nut-Trees; the young King tying a String about his Leg, climb’d with exceeding dexterity up a high Tree, bringing several Coco-Nuts down with him, which he open’d very expeditiously. _Arias Claeszoon_, Rowing ashore one night, found the King sitting under a Roof, resting on four Pillars, where several Naked Women Danc’d before him according to their Musick, which was Taboring upon a hollow Piece of Wood, which yielded a murmuring sound without any distinct Tune. [Illustration] [Sidenote: _Cava_ a strange Liquor.] [Sidenote: Impudent Women.] But the two Kings meeting again, the next day Complemented one another with more antick and ridiculous Postures, sitting side by side under the Roof, imploring their God, with their Hands folded, and their Heads bow’d to the ground: At this interview, four _Holland_ Trumpeters and Drummers stood playing before the King, to the great admiration and amazement of the Islanders, which were near ten thousand gather’d together upon the News of the strangers to attend the two Kings. Soon after a great company of Rusticks came running thither, which had a green Herb call’d _Cava_, ty’d about their middle; on a sudden they began all to chaw this _Cava_, throwing that which they had chaw’d into a large Woodden Trough, then putting Water to it, they Kneaded it together; which done, brought the Liquor on their Heads to the two Kings, before whom they kneel’d when they gave them any: Yet notwithstanding they receiv’d such honor from their Subjects, they shew’d servile respects to the _Hollanders_, for every King presented them with a Pig, which they first laid on their Heads, then kneeling, put it down at _Le Maire_’s Feet, and bowing their Heads to the ground, rose again. They wear their Hair long, which Brayded, hung on the left side of their Heads down to their Hips, ty’d at the end with two Knots; but the Nobility had two such Locks: All of them went naked, their Privities onely cover’d. The smallest of the Men exceeded the biggest of the _Hollanders_ in tallness. The Women had long Breasts hanging like Satchels down to their Bellies, and so unshamefac’d, that they prostituted themselves to any, in sight of all Men; and still at low Water, their business was to catch Fish, which they greedily eat raw. [Sidenote: Strange wild men.] [Sidenote: Deform’d people.] After all this Entertainment, Weighing from hence, _Schouten_ Sail’d along the Coast of _New-Guiny_, where three Boats full of _Negro_’s came Rowing towards them, Slinging very fiercely Stones at them, and hovering about, attended their motion all night. Next morning, seven Boats more coming to their assistance, they set upon the _Hollanders_, but soon fled from their Bullets; yet two of the _Negro_’s were taken, that in each Nostril wore a Ring. Sailing further, several Boats came aboard of them, whereof those that Row’d, breaking their _Assagays_ or Launces over their Heads, enter’d the Ship; the Hair of their Heads and Beards bedawb’d with Lime, flew about, whilst they Danc’d on the Decks, after they had eaten a good Meal: But they endeavor’d to reward this their kind Entertainment with Treachery, for going ashore, they soon after return’d in greater numbers, and sat upon the Anchors which lay over the Bows of the Ship, and there being a great calm, endeavor’d to Towe the Ship towards the Shore, whilst others threw Stones and Arrows. But so soon as the _Hollanders_ firing their Guns Wounded several of them, they all fled, except some which they took Prisoners, whereof one whom they afterwards call’d _Moses_, did them great service. But _Le Maire_ was amaz’d at nothing more, than when on the next Coast he saw several little Houses built about nine Foot high, out of which many People issu’d, which were all deform’d, either having Wry Noses, Bow Legs, Squint Eyes, or crooked Backs, and all in one part or another mis-shapen. At last, Anchoring before _Jacatra_, the Ship was stopt there by order of the _East-India_ Company, and the Men divided and put aboard those Ships that Sail’d from _India_ to _Holland_, and arriv’d in safety at _Flushing_, after they had Sail’d about the World, in two years and eighteen days. SECT. XVIII. _Voyage of the_ Nassavian _Fleet, under the Command of_ Jaques L’Heremite, _and_ Geen Huigo Schapenham. [Sidenote: Remarkable Exploits of _L’Hermite_.] The _United Netherlands_, to abate the _Spanish_ Greatness, set out a considerable Fleet, which they sent to try their fortune, in making Prize of what ever they could light upon in any of their Havens wash’d by the South-Sea. _Jaques L’Hermite_ had ten Ships under his Command, Mann’d with sixteen hundred thirty seven Men, and two hundred ninety four Brass and Iron Guns, with which he set Sail from _Goree_, _Anno 1623._ and coming before _Cape Vincent_, he discover’d eleven _Turkish_ Pirates, whom fighting, he beat, and re-took the _Holland_ Ships they had made Prize of. At _Roxents Head_, _L’Hermite_ gave chase to fifteen _Spanish_ Ships, and coming up with them, sunk eleven, and took four laden with Sugar. Afterwards Anchoring at _Safia_, he sent the Ship _Over-yssel_, and a Frigat call’d the _Gray-Hound_, to Convoy home the Prizes; afterward being inform’d, that thirty _Spanish_ Ships were making to them, Sailing into the Haven _St. Vincent_, the Spring Water that he supply’d his empty Cask with being brakkish, caus’d an excoriation of the Guts, which brought the Bloody-Flux, whereby he lost many of his Sea-men; being well entertain’d by the Salvages of _Antonio_, they went on to _Sierra Leona_, a Mountainous Point full of Lime-Trees, here they found the Names of _Sr. Francis Drake_, and other _English_ cut in a Rock. After that he put in at the fruitful Island _Annabon_, where he caus’d his Chirurgeon to be Beheaded. [Sidenote: _Vegar_ a wicked man.] This wicked Man being brought to the Torture, would confess nothing concerning the Crimes objected against him, but being strip’d for Execution, they found a small Bag hanging on his Breast, in which lay a Serpents Skin and Tongue, with which he had Poyson’d several Men, but he confess’d nothing. The first of _February_, the Fleet came to _Cape de Pemias_, which they know at a great distance, by its high Mountains cover’d with Snow. In short time after, Sailing by the Mouth of the _Straights_ of _La Maire_, they met with very tempestuous Weather, and seventeen of their Men going ashore, were devour’d by the _Cannibals_ of _Terra del Fuogo_. These People being all _Whites_, and of a large Stature, Paint themselves Red, and go stark naked, except some of highest quality who tie a Deer Skin about their Necks; and the Women cover their Nakedness with a piece of Leather: They live in Bowers made of the Branches of Trees, Stak’d three Foot deep, in a round at bottom, and above like our Tents, Canopy’d, the top of which open, to carry out the Smoke like a Chimney; and have no other Houshold-stuff than some Baskets, in which they lay their few Fishing Implements. They go continually Arm’d with Clubs, Arrows, Slings, and Stone-Knives: Their Boats being only the Trunk of a Tree made hollow, rise up before and behind like a Half-Moon, and are fourteen, and some sixteen Foot long, and two broad, and Row swifter than a Pinnace with many Oars. Lastly, they are so Salvage, that they seem rather to be Beasts than Men, knowing no Religion, ill Natur’d, cruel and Treacherous. From hence, passing on, _L’Hermite_ refresh’d at the desolate Isle _Fernando_, and so Steer’d his Course to _Calla de Lima_, on whose Coast, taking a _Spanish_ Vessel, the Prisoners told him, that their Plate-Fleet had Weigh’d Anchor, and were gone to _Panama_; only the Admiral which carry’d forty Brass Guns, with fifty Merchant-Men, lay close under the Shore, Guarded by three Stone Bulwarks, Fortifi’d with fifty Guns. _L’Hermite_ having a design upon these, took three _Spanish_ Vessels that were going thither, and at midnight, sent Captain _Adrian Tol_, _Peter Slobbe_, and _Meindert Egbertszon_, with twelve well Mann’d Boats, furnish’d with Brass Drakes, and Hand-Granado’s, to Attaque the _Spanish_ Fleet that lay hard by; and whilst some gave a false Alarm on the North of _Callao_, the Boats Rowing from Ship to Ship, in short time fir’d forty of them; although the _Spaniards_ from the Shore endeavor’d by their Shot to drive back the Enemy, neither the Fort or Admiral sparing Powder nor Ball. In this valiant Exploit the _Hollanders_ had onely seven Men kill’d, and fifteen Wounded: About break of day, seven of the _Spanish_ Ships floated, burning towards the _Dutch_ Fleet, which were as terrible as now Fire-ships, which forc’d them to Weigh Anchor to shun them. After that, _L’Hermite_ took two Ships laden with Wine, a third full of Wood, and a fourth with Wheat: One of these Prizes he fitted and prepar’d for a Fire-ship, and sending her to Board the _Spanish_ Admiral, it ran aground within shot of him; whereupon being batter’d by the Admirals Guns, and those from the Bulwarks, and at last taking Fire gave but a small blow, because most part of the Powder had taken Wet. In this interim, while thus their design went prosperously on, their Admiral _L’Heremite_ dy’d, whom they Bury’d on the Island _Lima_, and _Schapenham_, in defiance of the Vice-Roy in _Callao_, caus’d one and twenty _Spaniards_ to be hang’d at the Yard-Arm, because he had sent him a scornful Answer on the Proposals concerning the delivery of the Prisoners. [Sidenote: _Vershoor_’s Exploit.] [Sidenote: _Schapenham_’s remarkable Exploits.] [Sidenote: _Schapenham_ dies.] _Cornelius Jacobszoon_ Sailing to _Pisco_ with four Sail from the Fleet, could do no good there, for he not onely found the City to be surrounded with a Wall of fifteen Foot high, but having also many Earthen Redoubts, behind which lay above two thousand arm’d Men, wherefore he deserted the same after some Rancounters: But the Rear-Admiral, _John Williamszoon Vershoor_, who was sent to _Gainquil_, had much better luck; for he not onely took that Metropolis, but also burnt a new Royal _Gallion_, and two lesser Vessels; carry’d a conquer’d Vessel to _Lima_; slew above a hundred _Spaniards_, and threw seventeen overboard, because they had shot Poyson’d Bullets against the Law of Arms; of which Conquest Captain _Engelbert Shutte_ had the greatest honor: But the Sea-men grew weaker and weaker by the Scurvy, and all of them would have perish’d, had they not found a soveraign Herb on the highest Mountains of _Lima_. _Schapenham_ being chose Admiral in _L’Heremites_ place, Weigh’d Anchor from _Callao_, and ran into the Inlet _Piscadores_, where on the shore he rais’d a Sconce; yet not long after departed from thence without any effect, but lost twenty eight Men, through the bad Conduct of their Commanders; the like number he lost also at _Aquapulque_, on the side of which City stands a Castle with four strong Bulwarks; the _Holland_ Fire-ship lay just without the reach of the shot, the rest lay along the shore in a row, there to seize upon the Vessels expected thither from the _Manillaes_: But because the Scurvy raged amongst the Sea-men, and disabled them, they waited in vain, _Schapenham_ Sail’d through the South-Sea to the _Ladrones_, where he found store of Provisions. _Anno 1625._ in _March_, he drop’d Anchor before _Maleye_, and from thence went with _Herman Spiult_, the Governor for the _East-India_ Company in _Amboina_, to _Ceram_, where they Conquer’d the Fort _Lochoe_, and soon after _Cambella_; then the Fleet being divided, _Schapenham_ carry’d home two Ships from _Batavia_, and the remainder return’d at several times, they being hir’d to serve the _East-India_ Company to _Surratta_, _Malacca_, _Coromandel_, and the _Molucco Isles_: _Schapenham_ Deceasing near _Bantum_, and being Bury’d on _Pulo Boftok_, the Ships arriv’d at the _Texel_ in _July, Anno 1626._ Henry Brewer _his Voyage_. _Anno 1643._ _Brewer_ set Sail with four Ships from _Reciffo_, and ran close along the _States-Isle_, so dangerous and Rocky, that he durst not put in to the Land; from which flew great abundance of Party-colour’d Ducks, with sharp Bills, about the Ships, and under the Keels swam also Whales. [Sidenote: Sea Lions.] [Sidenote: _Brewer_’s Haven.] [Sidenote: Remarkable Exploits.] On the West side of the _Straights Le Maire_, _Brown_ ran into _Valentine_’s Inlet, where he was much troubled by the Winds which came whistling through the hollow Mountains with great and sudden gusts: The shore afforded red and black Strawberries, _Carville_ and Muscles, to the great refreshment of the Sea-men, who daily saw Sea-Lions, but could not come to shoot one of them, for no sooner they perceiv’d any body, but they Diving under Water, swam away; and though they saw Mens Foot-steps of eighteen Inches long, yet they never found any Men. Thence Sailing into the South-Sea, along the Coast of _Chili_, they enter’d a Bay which they nam’d _Brewer’s-Haven_; where Landing, they walk’d towards a great Smoke which they saw afar off, but coming near it, found only two Houses within a large Plain, full of Sheep, Oxen, and Horses; before the Houses stood Woodden Crosses. [Sidenote: _Ter Bergen_’s Exploit.] [Sidenote: _Castro_ a City.] [Sidenote: Stream _Chili_.] [Sidenote: _Brewer_ Dies.] [Sidenote: Strange accident.] [Sidenote: _Baldivia_, a brave City.] The _Dolphin_ Pink and a great Boat being sent to the Inlet, lay the following Night at an Anchor near a high Mountain; from whence, in the Night, two great Guns were fir’d, whereupon, Lieutenant _William Ter Bergen_ Landed with sixteen Musqueteers, and climbing up the Mountain, found a Village behind the same, where all things were in Alarm, Drums beating, Trumpets sounding, Bells ringing; the Villagers suddenly firing their Guns on _Ter Bergen_, who being supply’d with thirty four Men, Encounter’d the Enemy so Valiantly, that he fled into the Woods, not without the loss of Men and Horses: The Guns with which they had shot in the Night lay onely on a Redoubt: _Ter Bergen_ persuing this Victory, March’d into the Woods, and shot the _Spanish_ Commander _Andreas Munes Iserrera_ from his Horse, got great store of Treasure which lay hid under the Tree, being brought out of _Carelmappa_, which Village he set afire, and kill’d all the Horses, and Weigh’d Anchor with the Admiral _Brewer_ to _Michael de Cabuco_ where not being able to Land, because of the many obscure Rocks and Shoals, they set Sail to _Castro_, which they conquer’d and burnt without the least resistance: This City situate on a Mountain is stately built among Flowry Meadows, delightful Orchards, and brave Fountains; the Sea before it flows daily fourteen Foot. _Brewer_ also burnt a _Spanish_ Ship, and set some Houses afire, took three _Spaniards_ Prisoners on _Las Bahias_, who inform’d him, that the Winter Season was almost over, but that it was never known by any to pass over so mildly, ill Weather generally using to blow down Houses, Trees, and rend Rocks asunder; that there was much Gold in _Osorno_ and _Baldivia_, which last they had some years since deserted for hunger, but it was since Garrison’d by three hundred _Castilians_, that none could get at the Fort _Conception_ (which lay a League Westerly from thence) but in a small Boat, that there were on the place near two thousand Inhabitants. Moreover, an ancient Matron call’d _Lovysa Pizarra_, from _Quintian_, one of the Isles in the _Chilean_ In-Land-Sea, being fetch’d from thence, gave information, that forty years since, before the _Indians_ took up Arms, the _Spaniards_ were quietly setled in _Osorno_, and in so good a condition, that an ordinary Planter had at least three hundred Slaves, of which, every one was to procure a certain quantity of Gold; that the Isles _Chiloves_ were divided into above a hundred Colonies or Plantations, the _Chileses_ serving the _Castilians_ as their true Governors; those that do good Service the King of the Colony makes them Commanders, and that the _Chileses_ had Rebell’d in several places. _Brewer_ on the _Chileses_ request took some of them, with their Wives and Children into his Ship, furnish’d with Arms, he digg’d a Chest of Silver and a Brass Gun out of the Earth, and soon after being sick, dy’d. His Successor _Elias Herkmans_ prosecuting those Publick Affairs, sent the Pilot of the _Unity_ out of _Brewer’s Haven_, and some Sea-men, with two _Chilean Casiques_ with a Boat to _Carelmappa_; but being surpriz’d by a violent Storm, stood in for _Horse-Island_, where he and the _Casiques_ Landing, he order’d seven Sea-men to carry the Boat to a safer Harbor; but being driven from the shore by strong Winds it took in so much Water as fill’d and sunk it, so that all of them were drown’d. _Horse-Island_ being destitute of Provisions and Lodgings, those that were Landed expected nothing but Death, till they found out a small Hut, and in the same six brave Sheep, and a good quantity of Potatoe Roots, which serv’d for Bread: But when this their new-found Store was almost spent, they happily were fetch’d off by the Boat belonging to the Ship _Amsterdam_, and with the whole Fleet came to an Anchor before _Baldivia_. This City built by the _Castilians_, consisted formerly of five hundred and fifty fair Houses, and was divided into Streets and cross Ways, with two large Markets, and as many costly Churches. [Sidenote: Why the _Chileses_ grew strange to the _Hollanders_.] The _Chileses_ unsufferably oppress’d, slew all the _Spanish_ Garrison, and into the Governor’s Mouth and Ears pour’d melted Gold; of his Skull they made a Drinking-cup, and of his Shin-bones, Trumpets; after this, the City fell almost to decay, onely a great part of the Wall remain’d yet standing: The _Chileans_ hereupon flock’d hither by thousands, some on Horses, others on Foot, all Arm’d with Lances of a Foot long: _Herkman_ hereupon informing them by an Interpreter, that they being mortal Enemies of the _Spaniards_, would joyn with the _Chileans_ against that common Foe; and desir’d, that they might build a Fort on the Market-place in _Baldivia_, for a defence against all Invasions, and that they might be supply’d with Provisions which the Fleet wanted; all which the _Chileans_ granted, and accordingly brought in store of Sheep, Hogs, and Cattel: But so soon as _Herkman_ began to make the least mention of Gold, they were all abash’d, and said, that they knew of no Gold Mines, nay, their Hair stood an end, when they heard the name of Gold; so horribly the _Spaniards_ had dealt with their Parents: After this, the _Chileans_ growing more and more strange, did not in the least countenance the building of the Fort, and the longer the Fleet staid, the less Provisions they brought aboard; upon which, the Ships were necessitated, without any remarkable Exploits, to set Sail and return to _Reciffo_. [Illustration] [Illustration] The Second Book, CONTAINING A DESCRIPTION OF NORTHERN AMERICA CHAP. I. _Of the Bounds of_ America, _and of the Division of the_ Mexican _or Northern part thereof_. [Sidenote: The Bounds and Division of _Northern America_.] Having in the first part of this Volume discours’d at large concerning the original of the _Americans_, and whether that part of the World call’d _India Occidentalis_, or _America_, were known to the Ancients, or own its Discovery wholly to the Moderns, as also of all the Discoveries that have been made of the several parts thereof, and by whom, we shall now pass on to the Topographical part, describing every particular Province or Region, by giving an account of their Situation, Temperature, Productions, Nature of the Soil, and Quality of the Inhabitants. _America_, lying Westward of the _Azores_, and the Worlds Meridian, is by some suppos’d to consist of one vast Island, and several lesser ones, scatter’d about it: Nor can this supposition be thought vain, if, as many think, it be inviron’d on the North-side, as toward the East, South, and West it is known to be; East and South, by the _Atlantick Ocean_; and West, by _Mar del Zur_: But because the North-West Passage, though attempted by many, as _Nelson_, _Davis_, _Forbisher_, _Button_, _Smith_, _Hudson_, and others, hath not yet by any been fully discover’d; so that it is not certainly known whether _America_ be joyn’d to _Greenland_, and the _Arctick_ Region, by a continu’d Tract of Land, or sever’d by the Ocean: We shall follow the method of those Geographers, who, reputed sufficiently Authentick, have divided this new World into Islands, and two grand _Peninsula_’s joyn’d together by an _Isthmus_, or Neck of Land, call’d _The Straight of Darien_, by some _The Straight of Panama_, lying almost under the Equinoctial Line, and extending in length from _Nombre de Dios_ Southward above a hundred Miles, and from East to West seventeen Miles over in the narrowest place. Of these two grand _Peninsula_’s the Northern is generally call’d _America Mexicana_, from _Mexico_ the chief City of the Province, properly call’d _Mexicana_; which was heretofore without doubt the most potent, rich, and flourishing of all the Kingdoms of the _Indians_, at least on the North-side of the _Isthmus_. In the division of the several Provinces of _America_, as well those of the Northern as of the Southern Continent, we find so various an account among the several Geographers that have written of them (not any two of them agreeing in one and the same order) that to reconcile the differing methods of so many disagreeing Authors would be an endless work: wherefore we shall pitch upon the surest course, and not omitting the mention of any of the Provinces taken notice of by the said Authors, hereby endeavor to take in whatsoever material hath been observ’d by all of them, and by the way take occasion to shew how one differs from another in the distribution of them. Those therefore of the Northern _America_ (that as near as can be we may bring the design of many into one) seem most fitly describ’d in this following order: 1. _Estotiland_; 2. _Terra Laboratoris_, or _Nova Britannia_; 3. _Canada_, or _Nova Francia_; 4. _Nova Scotia_; 5. _New England_; 6. _New Netherlands_, now call’d _New York_, as being in the possession of the _English_; 7. _New Holland_; 8. _New Swedeland_; 9. _Apalchen_, now call’d _Virginia_; 10. _Florida_; 11. _Jucatan_; 12. _Honduras_; 13. _Nicaragua_; 14. _Veragua_; 15. _Costarica_; 16. _Anien_; 17. _Nova Hispania_; 18. _Guacatimala_; 19. _Nova Gallicia_; 20. _Nova Biscaia_; 21. _Nova Mexico_; 22. _Cibola_; 23. _Nova Granata_; 24. _Tontonteac_; 25. _Quivira_; 26. _Nova Albion_; to which by most Authors is added _California_; which being an Island we thought fit to reserve to be spoken of amongst the Islands, as also _Terra Nova_, or _New-found Land_; which last lies utmost West, as the other East of Northern _America_. Some there are also (and particularly _Monsieur de Martini_) who among the above-mention’d Provinces have inserted _Greenland_, though doubtless with little reason, since though it be granted that it is not divided by any Sea, yet it is evident, if any credit may be given to all modern Maps and Globes, that the greatest part of _Greenland_ lies in the Hemisphere of the known World; and therefore we have judg’d it most convenient to refer the particular mention thereof to the Description of the _Arctick_ Region. The Islands of _Northern America_ are 1. _Terra Nova_, or _New-found Land_; 2. The _Island of Assumption_; 3. The _Bermudas_, or _Summer-Island_; 4. _Hispaniola_; 5. _St. John Porto Rico_; 6. _Cuba_; 7. _Jamaica_; 8. The _Lucayes_; 9. The _Caribes_, or _Antillæ_; 10. _Margarita_; 11. _Cubagua_; 12. _La Trinidad_; 13. _Tabago_; 14. _California_, the biggest of all the _American_ Islands. The length of the _West-Indies_ is generally computed to be from the utmost South of _Terra Magellanica_, to the farthest North of _Estotiland_, about six thousand _English_ Miles, reaching from six Degrees of Northern, to fifty three of Southern Latitude; the breadth from _St. Michael_ or _Piura_ Westward, to _Parabaya_, a Town on the Coast of _Brasil_ Eastward, three thousand nine hundred Miles, and the whole compass thirty thousand. SECT. II. Estotiland. That the _English_ have been very great Undertakers of Voyages and Discoveries toward the North-West, appears by the denomination of divers places, both from the Persons which have Sail’d thitherward, and also from such of our own Countrey Names as were thought fit to be there fix’d, as beyond the _Arctick Circle_ are Sir _James Lancaster’s Sound_, Sir _Dudley Diggs’s Cape_, Queens _Annes Foreland, Cumberland Isles, Davis’s Straight, &c._ on this side toward the _Arctick Circle_, _Button_’s and _Brigg_’s _Bay_, _Hudson_’s _Sea_, otherwise term’d _Mare Christianum_, out of which more Westerly runs a narrow Sea call’d _Hudson_’s _Straight_: beyond _Hudson_’s _Sea_ towards the _Arctick Circle_ is a place call’d _New North-Wales_; and on this side answerable to it, between _Button_’s _Bay_ and the _Christian Sea_, lies _New South-Wales_; all which places we find generally set down in the _American_ Hemisphere, but in the Geographical Discourses thereof little is said of them, if so much as nam’d. The farthest part of Land Northward, between _Hudson_’s _Gulph_ and _Hudson_’s _Straight_, betwixt fifty seven and sixty Degrees of Northern Latitude, goes generally by the Name of _Estotiland_, I mean that properly so call’d (for _Estotiland_ is by some as largely taken as _Canada_, by _Cluverius_, _Golnitzius_, _Peter du Val_, and others, namely for all that Tract of Land extending from that supposed _Straight of Anian_, which divides _America_ from _Asiatick Tartary_, as far as the utmost point of Land that shoots toward the _Atlantick Ocean_) which Southerly towards _Terra Laboratoris_ is bounded with a River vulgarly call’d _Rio Nevado_, or _The Snowy River_. _Estotiland_ seems to have deriv’d its Name from its lying more Easterly than the rest of the Provinces, and, according as _Nova Britannia_ is plac’d in some Charts, might very well be taken for the same, though it hath not been so term’d by any Author, but rather _Terra Laboratoris_, _Cortereatis_, and _Nova Britannia_ are generally receiv’d to be all one. [Sidenote: First discovery of _Estotiland_.] [Sidenote: The Nature of the People.] This Province is affirm’d by _Matthias Quadus_, and _J. Antonius Maginus_, to have been the first discover’d Countrey of the new World, and that by _Antonius Zeno_, a Patrician of _Venice_, in the Year of our Lord 1390. which was long before the Expedition of _Columbus_, through the encouragement of _Zichmus_, King of the Isle of _Friezland_; but by whomsoever found out, or at whatsoever time, it is commonly affirm’d to be not ill furnish’d with Provisions of all sorts, as Beasts, Birds, Fish, Fowl, and Fruits, having a Soil indifferent fertile, in respect of the coldness of the Climate. The People in general (for some there are that live wild and salvage up and down the Woods, and go naked, whereas the Clothing of the Countrey is the Skins of Beasts and of Sea-Calves, call’d _Morses_) are reported not onely tolerably civil, but also ingenious and expert both in mechanick Arts, and other necessary Faculties, insomuch that the first Voyagers to this place are said to have observ’d of them upon this first Discovery, That they sow’d Corn, brew’d Beer and Ale, and Traded by Sea to _Greenland_, _Friezland_, and other places, to the distance of fifteen hundred Miles; and that they were not altogether void of the use of Letters, but that their Character was onely proper to themselves and not intelligible by any other Nation: Moreover, there is a certain Tradition, that there was here and there some little knowledge of the _Latine_ Tongue amongst them, and that there were found divers _Latine_ Books in a Library of one of their Kings; the reason of which, if true, is conjectur’d to be from certain _Europeans_ who understood that Language, having in Ages past suffer’d shipwrack upon those Coasts, where chancing to abide either through constraint or choice, they might haply at their Decease leave behind them some Books and other Monuments of the _Latine_ Tongue. They were observ’d to use such a kind of Javelin or short Dart, as was known to be us’d by the People of _Java_, and some other Islands of the _East-Indies_; whereupon it seems not wholly improbable, that they might for a long time have entertain’d Traffick and Correspondence with them. [Sidenote: Description of the _Morses_.] The _Morses_, or Sea-Calves before mention’d, are about the bigness of a young Heifer, the Hunting of which by the Natives, who take them in great numbers, is to them in the stead of Whale-fishing, which is not there so good, for they draw a great quantity of Train-Oyl out of them. On each side of the Jaw of this amphibious Creature (for it is said to live very much on the Land, as well as in the Water) there sticks out a crooked Tusk, winding downward like an Elephants _Proboscis_, above a Cubit in length, and as white and hard as Ivory: It is esteem’d of great vertue, at least it passes for such among those who take it for other than what it is, for it is frequently vended for Unicorns-horn; of which imposture Dr. _Brown_ takes notice, and gives a Caution against in his _Vulgar Errors_. This Countrey is suppos’d, and that probably enough, to have store of Brass and Iron Mines; but for the Mines of Gold and Silver, which some have imagin’d there, the Northerly Situation of the Countrey, and by consequence the coldness of the Climate, give sufficient cause to question the truth of any such assertion. What chief Towns, Cities, Rivers and Mountains there are in this Province, is not yet deliver’d by any, onely _Maginus_ and _Quadus_ make mention of four principal Rivers, which disperse themselves through the Countrey, and take their source out of a great Mountain in the midst thereof. SECT. III. Terra Laboratoris. [Sidenote: Situation.] _Terra Laboratoris_, by some call’d _Nova Britannia_, by others _Corterealis_, (though there are some who make _Laboratoris_ and _Corterealis_ two distinct Countreys, comprehended, according to _Peter du Val_, under _Nova Britannia_, as the more general Province; or, according to _Cluverius_, under _Canada_) lies from about fifty four to fifty seven Degrees of Northern Latitude, between _Estotiland_ and the River _Canada_, which _Maginus_ and some others, though for what reason is not express’d, name _Fretum trium Fratrum_, _The Bay of the three Brethren_; others, _The River of St. Laurence_, and is, according to the said Author, of so vast a bigness, that the Mouth of it extends it self thirty five _Italian_ Miles wide; likewise of such a length, as to have been navigated a continu’d Voyage of eight hundred Miles. The denomination of _Terra de Laborador_, or _Laboratoris_, seems probably enough conjectur’d to be from the cultivability (if one may so term it) of the Soil, or its aptness for Cultivation or Tillage; that is, because by the painful Hand of the Labourer or Husband-man it may be rendred so fertile, as to yield all sorts of Grain and Fruits; haply in allusion to that fruitful Countrey of _Campania_ in _Italy_, vulgarly known by the Name of _Terra di Lavoro_. As for the Appellation of _Terra Corterealis_, it need not be question’d, but that it derives it self from _Gaspar Corterealis_, a _Portuguese_ Gentleman, who about the Year of our Lord 1500. is thought by some to have made the first discovery of these Parts; though Sir _Sebastian Cabot_ a _Venetian_, is more generally believ’d to have been the Man that (under the favour and countenance of _Henry_ the Seventh, King of _England_) first discover’d them, at least the adjoyning Island _Terra Nova_, or _New-found Land_; but just onely discover’d, being hinder’d the farther prosecution of that Design, by the important Affairs in which the said King was about that time involv’d; neither did _Corterealis_, whether he was the first, or came after, do any more, for returning within a year after his first setting out, he was never heard of; nor, as _Osorius_ a _Portuguese_ Historian writes, any of his Company, being all suppos’d to have been drown’d by Shipwrack; and in like manner _Michael Corterealis_, who the year following set forth with two Ships in quest of his Brother _Gaspar_. Upon which series of Misfortunes the _Portuguese_ being wholly discourag’d, and giving over this Design, the _French_ of _Armorica_ or _Bretany_ succeed them in it with somewhat better success about the Year 1504. whereupon it came to be term’d _Nova Britannia_, or _New Britain_. The ancient Inhabitants of this place were formerly of a Nature, like the generality of the _American_ People, somewhat bruitish and salvage, but by long conversation with the _French_, are said to have cast off their original wildness, and become more civilly manner’d: they are very jealous of their Wives, by report much addicted to Soothsaying, though otherwise having little of Religion, or of any other kind of Learning; they dwell for the most part in Caves under Ground, feed chiefly upon Fish, and are accounted most expert Archers. Whatever places the _French_ have built here besides, those of chiefest note are _St. Maries_, _Cabo Marzo_, and _Brest_. SECT. IV. Canada, or New France. [Sidenote: Situation.] _Canada_, as it is taken for one and the same Province with _New France_, contains _New France_, properly so call’d, _Nova Scotia_, _Norumbega_, and some adjoyning Islands, as the _Canada_ of _Cluverius_, lying more North-Westerly, comprehends (as we have already intimated) _Estotiland_, _Laboratoris_, and _Corterealis_, and, according to the most modern Division (for that of _Cluverius_ neither consents with the latest Authors, nor agrees with exact Survey, it being nam’d _Canada_, in respect the River _Canada_ runs through it) hath on the North _Terra Corterealis_, on the South _New England_, and on the East the Ocean, and hath between forty five and fifty two or fifty three Degrees of Northern Latitude. The River _Canada_ is judg’d to be the largest of all the Rivers of _America_, as those Rivers generally the largest of all in the World besides; it rises in the Western parts of this Province which remain yet undiscover’d, and in some places spreads it self into huge Lakes, some of them a hundred Miles in compass, with many little Islands dispersed up and down in them, and so running from the West about a hundred Leagues, falls at last into the North part of _St. Lawrence Bay_, being that wide _Emboucheure_ of thirty five Miles breadth already mention’d. This River is extraordinary full of Fish, among which there is one sort more remarkable than the rest, call’d by the Inhabitants _Cadhothuis_, having Heads resembling the Heads of Hares, and Bodies as white as Snow; they are taken for the most part before the Isle _de Lievres_. The Countrey on both sides of the River is pleasant and indifferently fertile, especially towards the South-West, where upwards from the River the Ground rises into many little Hills, invested most of them with Vines, with which and several other sorts of Trees this Countrey abounds, being well water’d with a great many lesser Streams, all of them falling into the River _Canada_. [Sidenote: First discovery.] That this Countrey is term’d _New France_, from having been discover’d by the _French_, at least more fully than before, there needs no question to be made; but whether _Joannes Verrazanus_, under _Francis_ the First of _France_, or _Sebastian Cabot_ before spoken of, were the first in this Discovery, may admit of something of dispute: the _Cabots_ indeed, (for _John_ the Father is by some mention’d to have accompanied his Son) who by all are own’d the first Discoverers of _New-found-Land_ and _Terra de Baccalaos_, are also commonly reputed to have first found out the Province of _New France_, together with some parts adjacent, though perhaps it might be upon this Ground that _Terra de Nova_, or _New-found-Land_, not being known at first to be an Island, _New France_ and that might be taken for one continu’d Province; and it appears so much the more probable, because _Canada_, or _Nova Francia_, is by some call’d _Terra Nova_; however it be, or whoever were the first Adventurers, _Quarteri_ and _Champlain_ are the two _French_-men that have gain’d so much fame by making a more ample and particular search into these parts, that this Province may seem from thence to have sufficient claim to the Title of _New France_, whereof that part more especially so call’d, lies on the North-side of the River _Canada_, and Southward to _Terra Corterealis_. The Winter is here very long, and so much the more severe by reason of a cold North-West Wind which blows most part of the Winter Season, and brings with it so thick a Snow, that it continues upon the Ground most commonly till after _May_. The Countrey is for the most part wooddy, but in the Champain parts thereof very fruitful of Corn, and all sorts of Grain, especially Pulse: It hath also Fish, Fowl, wild Deer, Bears, Marterns, and Foxes in abundance, and of Hares such plenty, that one of the little Islands belonging to this Province, is by the _French_ nam’d _L’Isle des Lievres_, or _The Island of Hares_: But the most peculiar Commodity belonging to this Countrey is the _Esurgnuy_, a kind of Shell-Fish, extraordinary white, and approv’d of singular vertue for the stanching of Blood; to which purpose they make Bracelets of them, not onely for their own use, but also to vend them to others; but _John de Laet_ and others have observ’d no other than a superstitious use of them amongst the Salvages, in their Funeral Rites for the Dead: the manner of their taking it is very remarkable; for when any one is condemn’d to die, or taken Prisoner, they cut off all his fleshy parts in long slices, and then throw him into the River, where they let him lie twelve hours, and at last pulling him out again find his Wounds full of _Esurgnui_. _Quadus_ and _Maginus_ make mention of three ancient Towns, namely _Canada_ (denominated as the Province, from the River) _Hochelai_ and _Hochchelaga_, giving Name to a Territory about it, which Geographers either take no notice of, or make some question of the being of such Towns; however, a late Describer of the _West-Indies_, not mentioning the other two, gives this description of the last, _viz._ _Hochchelaga_: “This City (saith he) said to be the Seat and Residence of a King of this Country whom the Natives, at least some of them, acknowledge and reverence, carrying him sometimes in great pomp upon their Shoulders sitting upon a Carpet of Beasts Skins, is situate far within Land, at a distance of six or seven Leagues from the River _Canada_, and is a kind of fortifi’d place, encompass’d about with a threefold Range of Timber Ramparts one within another, of about two Rods high from the Ground, with cross Planks, or pieces of Timber jutting out, on purpose to hinder an Enemy’s Scaling or getting up; towards the top there is as it were a Scaffold or Gallery fram’d, from whence they may throw down Stones of which there is always good store ready, or what else to annoy the Assailants: It hath one onely Gate for Entrance, and that likewise well fortifi’d after their manner: There are guess’d to be in it fifty or sixty great Houses, built (as the maner of the _Americans_ that live in Houses usually is) in a square Figure, each side being about fifty Foot long, or more, and sixteen or twenty broad, but not many Stories high; and in the midst of the Court or void space, a place to make their Fire, and do other necessary work about it. Moreover the Territory round about this Town is both rich in Soil, and pleasant in Prospect.” Besides these three above-mention’d Towns there are several others, which are not untaken notice of in the most modern Descriptions and Maps, _viz._ 1. _Stadac_, or _Stadacone_, somewhat Westward of a small Isle call’d _The Isle d’Orleance_; 2. _Quebeque_, which being made a Colony of the _French_, and the Natives expell’d, came to be Entituled _St. Croix_; 3. _Tadoussac_, which lies in that part of the Countrey denominated from the River _Saguenay_, and by some call’d at this day _Nouvelle Biscaye_, a delightful place, and full of stately Trees, and hath likewise a good and safe Haven, capable of receiving twenty Ships; 4. _Trois Rivieris_, or three Rivers; 5. _Monreal_; 6. _Sillery_; 7. _Richelieu_; besides two strong Castles or Forts, _Franceroy_ and St. _Lewis_; the First built by _Monsieur Robeval_ at his Landing here, about the Year 1540. the other design’d for a Colony, in the Year 1611. by _Monsieur Champlany_, but hinder’d by the Invasion of the _Iroquois_. The smaller Rivers that run out of the Gulph of St. _Lawrence_, and the grand River _Canada_ towards the North, on which side chiefly lies this Province, are, 1. _Chichesedec_, 2. St. _Margarite_, 3. _Lesquemin_, 4. _Saquenay_, before-mention’d, 5. _Montonne_; and on the South side, the River _Mary_. The principal Tribes of the ancient Natives of this Countrey were; on the North side of _Canada_ the _Canadans_, the _Betisiamites_, the _Hurons_, the _Algoniquins_, the _Quenongebins_, the _Algoingequins_, the _Attagopantans_, the _Atticameques_, the _Nipisiriniens_; and on the South side, the _Etechemins_, and the chief Heads or Princes of these Tribes were call’d _Sagamores_. [Sidenote: Strange Fish nam’d _Chaousarou_.] _Jaques Quartier_ Complementing their King _Agouthanna_, took up his Quarters a whole Winter at St. _Croix_, a Sandy Promontory, overflow’d by the River _Canada_, into which falls the Lake _de Champlain_, grown round about with Chestnut Trees; in it breeds the strange Fish call’d _Chaousarou_, generally ten Foot long, with Heads like Sharks, and two rows of Teeth in their Mouths, their Skins full of strong Scales, which are sufficient Shields against Swords and Lances, are great devourers of other Fish and Fowls, which they take after this manner, _viz._ they swim amongst Reeds or Canes, and lie still with their Mouths open; whereat the Birds sitting down upon them, are immediately swallow’d. The Natives of _Nova Francia_ anoint their bodies with Oil; in the Summer they go naked, and in the Winter mantle themselves in Furs. Their Warlike Accoutrements are Darts and Clubs, but chiefly great Shields. They are revengeful, cruel, and fraudulent; their Women common to all Men, from fifteen to twenty, after which, Marrying, they become very Chaste. Their Diet is _Indian_ Corn, fresh and salt Fish, Venison, _Buffalo_’s and Beavers flesh; wiping their Fingers (when greasie) on their Heads, or their Dogs backs, which wait for the Scraps. [Sidenote: Strange proof of Valor.] [Sidenote: Wonderful opinion of God.] [Sidenote: Flood.] [Sidenote: Sorcerers.] [Sidenote: They boast their Extract from Heaven.] [Sidenote: Their strange Relation concerning it.] [Sidenote: As also of the Creation, and Souls of the Deceased.] [Sidenote: Strange Rock.] [Sidenote: Thunder.] [Sidenote: _Thakabech_ an Idol.] [Sidenote: Funeral-Feast.] At that season when the Corn covers the ground, to any heighth, they eat Cockles, Dogs, dead Caryon, and the Skins wherewith they Clothe themselves. When they have eaten their fill, they tabering on their Bellies, cry, _Tapoue Mikispoun_, that is, _Verily I am satisfi’d_. They give their Sick a speedy Cure, either immediately killing them, or inhumanely exposing them to the Woods, to be devour’d by ravenous Beasts, but if they die suddenly, they in howling tone pronounce _Ove, Ove_, thereby to chase the Souls of the Deceas’d out of their Huts; they stick the bodies on Woodden Prongs, cover them with Bark, and lay their Clothes and Arms by them; all what remains of the Funeral Feasts is burnt, whereas at other times, what e’re is brought on their Table they eat, though ready to burst. They make the first Proofs of their Valour by undergoing a most prodigious Torment, in this manner; Two by consent tie their naked Arms together, on which they suffer burning Sulphur to be pour’d, till the flesh starts from the bone; if either of them shrink, or pull back his Arm, he is accounted by them ever after as an ignominious and base Coward. They call God _Atahocan_, and believe that one _Messou_ first drowning the world by a general Deluge, restor’d it again after a wonderful manner, _viz._ _Messou_ hunting with Wolves, they scented a Deer which being closely pursu’d, leap’d into a neighboring Pool, the Wolves following it, were drown’d; _Messou_ coming thither, stood amaz’d at a Bird, which inform’d him, that the Wolves were pluck’d down, and held fast in the bottom by horrible Monsters, whereupon he diving, the Pool immediately began to swell, and at last the whole surface of the Earth to be overflow’d. _Messou_ afterwards let a Raven flie to fetch a Clod of Earth, but in vain, for all the Land lay drown’d in Water; at last a Rat diving to the bottom, brought a lump of Earth, out of which _Messou_ restor’d the World; shot Arrows into Trees, which became fruitful Branches. Here also reside an innumerable many _Sorcerers_, call’d _Pillotoa_’s, which sometimes being possess’d with a Frenzy, scourge themselves in a terrible manner, insomuch that the Blood runs down by their sides: These People are held in great esteem, for they boast themselves to have their Original from Heaven upon this occasion, _viz._ _Ataensic_, a certain great Queen or Goddess, residing above the Stars, had a sick Husband, who Dreamt that he should be restor’d to his former health so soon as he could but taste of the Fruits which grew on a Tree, whereby the Family of Heaven were kept alive, but that the Tree must needs be cut down, which _Ataensic_ obeying, gave onely two blows, when the Tree, to her great amazement, fell out of Heaven down to the Earth; there being by this means nothing more left to eat in Heaven: _Ataensic_ follow’d the fallen Tree, and being big with Child, bare a Daughter, which growing up to years, was Deliver’d of two Daughters, _viz._ _Taoviscaron_ and _Jouskeha_, the eldest of which slew the youngest: By these Fables we may discern their obscure knowledge of _Noah_’s Flood, _Eve_’s Fall, and _Cain_’s Murder. No less ridiculous is that which they believe concerning the Creation, _viz._ That the Waters were inclos’d within a Frog, which _Jouskeha_ causing to be cut open, all Streams and Rivers issuing out, had their Original from thence: This done, _Jouskeha_ open’d a Pit, out of which came all sorts of Beasts; they ascribe a Bodily shape to the Soul, as also Immortality, but that they live together in a great Village towards the West; from which removing sometimes, they knock at the Doors of their former Friends in the Night, and sow deserted Grounds: That the Journey towards the Village in which the Souls reside is very strange; the Highway thither beginning at a Rock nam’d _Ecaregniendi_, where they first Paint their Faces, which done, they go to a Hut inhabited by an old Man, nam’d _Osotrach_, who takes the Brains out of the Souls Head; after which they walk to a broad River, which they cross on a narrow Plank or Bridge, on which a Dog encountring, forces them to leap into the Water, which carries them down to the foremention’d Village. They acknowledge one _Oki_ for the Governor of the Sea, and seasons of the Year: They also Religiously Worship the Rock _Tsankchi Arasta_, which they believe some ages ago was once a Man, but afterward Transform’d into a Rock, in which a _Dæmon_ resides, who can make their Journies either successful or dangerous, wherefore they offer him Tobacco. Their opinion of Thunder is likewise very ridiculous, for they say that the Devil endeavoring to vomit a horrible Serpent, by straining to evacuate the same, rents the Clouds, and occasions Thunder. Lastly, They relate of a Dwarf call’d _Thakabech_, who climb’d on the top of a Tree, which by his blowing thereon grew so high, that it touch’d the Clouds, and _Thakabech_ easily stept into them, where he found all sorts of delight and pleasure; but having a Sister on Earth, descended again along the Tree, and fetching his Sister, conducted her above the Stars; mean while, _Thakabech_ going in the Night to see if he had taken any thing in his Net which he had pitch’d, found it full of Fire, and observing the same very narrowly, saw that he had taken the Sun, but durst not approach the same, by reason of its great heat; but making a Mouse, sent her to gnaw the Net in pieces, and set the Sun at liberty. Every twelfth year they keep an extraordinary great Funeral-Feast; for on the Set-time they flock from all parts to the appointed place, every one carrying thither the Bodies or Bones of their Deceas’d Friends, wrapt up in Clothes, and hang them over their Meat, which they eat singing; such fond and Superstitious Conceits make up the Religion of these poor deluded People. SECT. V. Accadia, or Nova Scotia. _Nova Scotia_, or _New Scotland_, formerly call’d _Accadia_, is commonly accounted a part of _New France_, (_viz._ that part which lying on the South side of the River _Canada_, and shooting South-Easterly into a bosom of the Sea, forms it self into a _Peninsula_, between the Gulph of St. _Lawrence_, and the Bay _Francoise_) nevertheless, because of the different concernments of this part of the Countrey, in regard the right of claim to several places in this district, most especially of all _Nova Francia_ besides, hath been long in dispute between _Us_ and the _French_, it will be most convenient to Treat of it apart; and because the Series of Affairs, from its first discovery, till of late years, appears faithfully represented on the _English_ part, in a Remonstrance Address’d to the King and Council by Sir _Lewis Kirk_, and his Brother _John Kirk_ Esquire; it will not be amiss (onely adding some few things upon occasion) to follow exactly the Narration of Affairs, deliver’d in the said Remonstrance to this effect. “1. The whole Tract or Space of Land in _America_, lying on either side of the River _Canada_, which a long time since were known by the Names of _Nova Francia_, and _Nova Scotia_, were at first discover’d and found out by the _English_, in the time of _Henry_ the Seventh, King of _England_; which Expedition was first undertaken at the Command and Charges of that King; afterwards further’d and carry’d on by the favorable Aspect of Queen _Elizabeth_; so that in process of time, for many years together, the said Tract of Ground, with absolute Priviledge of free Commerce, fell under the Jurisdiction and Power of the Crown of _England_: Neither was it unto any other _Christian_ Princes, or their Subjects more clearly known or discover’d, untill about the year 1600. some of the _French_ understanding the benefit arising by Traffique in the River of St. _Lawrence_, having formerly seiz’d upon that Tract of Land, situate on the North side of the said Floud or River _Canada_, did afterwards, in _Anno 1604._ (_under the Conduct of_ Peter de Gua, _Lord_ of Monts, _who in the year 1606. was follow’d by_ Monsieur de Pourtrincourt) Possess themselves of _L’Accadie_, lying on the South side of the said River, naming the whole _Nova Francia_, challenging to themselves for many years, at least _de facto_, the Possession thereof, with sole liberty of Commerce there. “2. In _Anno 1621._ King _James_ of _England_ looking upon the Possession gotten there by the _French_, as upon an Invasion, did by his Letters Patents Grant unto Sir _William Alexander_ a _Scotchman_ (_Created afterwards Earl of_ Sterling, _by King_ Charles _the First_) _L’Accadie_, by the Name of _Nova Scotia_; who in the year 1622, and 1623. _after Sir_ Samuel Argal _had driven out_ Biard _and_ Masse, _and demolishing their Fort, carry’d them Prisoners_ to Virginia; having obtain’d the Possession thereof, they Planted a Colony therein, and kept Possession for about two years after, until such time, as upon the Marriage of his Majesty King _Charles_ the First, with the Lady _Henrietta Maria_, the said _L’Accadie_, or _Nova Scotia_, was by Order of the King of _England_ return’d into the Possession of the _French_. “3. Afterwards a War arising between his Majesty King _Charles_ the First, and _Lewis_ the XIII. _Anno 1627._ and _1628_. Sir _David Kirk_ and his Brethren and Relations of _England_, did by vertue of his Majestie’s Commission, send to Sea (at their great charge) first three, afterwards nine Ships, with Warlike Preparations for recovering of the Possession of the said Lands, lying on either side of the said River _Canada_, and to expel and eject all the _French_ Trading in those Parts, wherein they had good Success; and in _Anno 1627._ did there seize upon about eighteen of the _French_ Ships, wherein were found a hundred thirty five Pieces of Ordnance, design’d for relief of the _Royal Fort_ in _L’Accadie_, and _Quebeck_ in _Nova Francia_, under the Command of _Monsieur de Rocmand_, and _Monsieur de la Tour_, Father of _de la Tour_, Governor of the said _Royal Fort_, whom, together with the said Ships and Guns, they brought into _England_; and in the year 1628. they Possess’d themselves of the whole Region of _Canada_ or _Nova Francia_, situate on the North side of the River, together with the Fort or Castle of _Quebeck_, Sir _Lewis Kirk_ being then constituted Governor of the place, the _French_ being then either expell’d or convey’d into _England_, and the Arms of the King of _England_ being publickly there erected, and every where plac’d; and before the year 1628. it was brought to pass by the said Sir _William Alexander_, (assisted both by the advice and charge of the said _Kirk_) that in the parts of _L’Accadie_, or _Nova Scotia_, on the South side of the River _Canada_, the whole place, with the Forts thereon built, being by him subdu’d, presently came under the Power of the King of _England_; that Region on the South side falling into the Possession of the said Sir _William Alexander_, and that on the North side, into the Possession of the _Kirks_. “4. On _March 29. 1632._ a Peace being concluded between King _Charles_ the First, and _Lewis_ the XIII. it was amongst other things on the part of the King of _England_ agreed, That all the Forts, as well in _L’Accadie_ as in _Nova Francia_, should be restor’d into the Possession of the Subjects of the _French_ King, which was exactly perform’d on the part of the _English_, though to the great damage of the _Kirks_; but on the part of the _French_, although it was agreed, as in the fourth and fifth Articles of Peace is set down, (to which reference is had) yet nothing was ever perform’d of their parts; so that the _Kirks_ did thereupon suffer loss, to the value of five thousand Pounds _Sterl._ which were to be paid them by _Monsieur de Cane a French-man_, but remain unpaid to this day. “5. _Anno 1633._ the King of _England_ taking notice, that although the Forts and Castles, according to the League, were deliver’d up into the Possession of the _French_, (especially such as had been erected during their Possession thereof) yet that his _English_ Subjects were not to be excluded from Trade or free Commerce, in those Regions that were first Discover’d and Possess’d by his Subjects, did, with the advice of his Council, by his Letters Patents, Dated _May 11. 1633._ upon consideration had of the Expences, which the said _Kirks_ had laid out upon the reducing of that Countrey with the Fort of _Quebeck_, to the value of 50000^{lb.}; and also of their ready obeisance in resigning up the same on his Royal Command, Grant unto Sir _Lewis Kirk_, and his Brother _John Kirk_ and his Associates, for the term of thirty one years (not yet expir’d) full Priviledge, not only of Trade and Commerce in the River _Canada_, and places on either side adjacent, but also to Plant Colonies, and build Forts and Bulwarks where they should think fit. “6. By vertue of which Commission, Sir _Lewis Kirk_ and his Brother _John Kirk_, and his Associates, in the Moneth of _February_ next following, _viz._ in 1633. set forth a Ship call’d _The Merry Fortune_, Laden with Goods of a considerable value, consign’d to those parts, where during her Trading there, without any just offence given; and in time of Peace, she was by the _French_ forceably seiz’d on, and carry’d into _France_ and her Lading, as if she had been lawful Prize, Confiscated; whereupon the _Kirks_ suffer’d loss, to the value of twelve thousand Pounds. And although the Lord _Scudamore_, Ambassador in _France_, by the King of _Englands_ special Command, and the said _John Kirk_ being there in Person, by the King’s Command, did often earnestly urge, that the Moneys due to the said _Kirks_, and the said Ship, with her Lading, might be restor’d, which for no other cause had been seiz’d upon and sold, but only for that by the King’s Commission she was found Trading at _Canada_; yet he could obtain nothing, but after some years fruitless endeavors return’d into _England_ without accomplishing his desires. “7. In the year 1654. _Cromwel_, although an unjust Usurper of the Government, yet upon consideration of the Premises, taking a just occasion for requiring the Possession of _L’Accadie_, sends forth several Ships under the Command of one _Sedgwick_, who by vertue of the Authority granted him by _Cromwel_, assaulted and subdu’d the aforesaid Forts in _Nova Scotia_, and restor’d them into the Possession of the _English_: And although in the year 1655. a League of firm Peace and Amity being concluded between _Cromwel_ and the _French_ King, the _French_ Ambassador did often urge the Restitution to the Possession of the _French_; yet for the same causes aforesaid, which had mov’d _Cromwel_ to seize upon them, it was thought fit still to retain the Possession of them; and although according to the purport of the twenty fifth Article of the Peace, Commissioners on both sides were to be appointed for the deciding and determining that Controversie; yet nothing was done therein, neither did the Commissioners ever meet within three Moneths, as in the twenty fourth Article of the Treaty was provided and agreed: So that now the case is very clear, that the Possession to the _English_ remains firm and just, and that the Forts and Bulwarks before specifi’d, are without all peradventure under the Power and Jurisdiction of the King of _England_.” Since the Restauration of his present Majesty, the _French_ Ambassador representing unto the King the Pretensions of the _French_ unto the several Forts and other places in _Accadie_, and urging the non-performance of the Articles of Agreement between _Oliver Cromwel_ and the _French_ King, mov’d the King of _England_, _As a profess’d Enemy to all Violence_, for a Restitution of all the Forts and other places which were then in the possession of the _English_: Not long after which, whether upon the Ambassadors request, or upon other important Affairs intervening, or upon what other ground soever it were, the _French_ were suffer’d to re-enter on the foresaid places, and do yet keep Possession of them, till such time as the _English_ claim under the just Title of the _Kirks_, shall meet with some fit occasion of being reviv’d. That which we suppose gives the _French_ so much the more confidence in their claim of this Country, is their presumption upon the Expedition of _James Quartier_, whom they will have to be the first Discoverer, if not Possessor, not onely of the Isle of _Assumption_, but also of this Coast of _Nova Francia_, not taking notice it seems of _Sebastian Cabot_, under _Henry_ the Seventh. The chief places of Note in this Countrey, are, 1. _Port Royal_, a Colony of _French_, said to have been Planted there by _Monsieur de Montz_ in 1604. by report, capable of receiving a thousand Ships; and in 1613. (the _French_ being driven out by Sir _Samuel Argal_, Governor of _Virginia_, who took Prisoners _Biard_ and _Masse_, and demolish’d the Fort at _Port Royal_) given by Patent, as aforemention’d, to Sir _William Alexander_; afterwards by him sold again to the _French_; then in the time of _Oliver Cromwel_ re-taken by Major _Sedgwick_; lastly, re-possess’d by the _French_. 2. St. _Luke’s Bay_, or _Portua Mouton_. 3. _Gaspe_, or _Gachepe_. 4. _The Haven of Passepay._ 5. The _Bay de Toutes Isles._ 6. _The Fort de la Heve._ 7. _The Cape of Sable._ Within the Southern Point _Forchu_, lies the Isle _Longu_, which boasts of a Silver Mine. The most noted People of the ancient Inhabitants of _Accadie_ were the _Iroquois_, lying most South-Westerly upon the Sea Coast, who us’d to drive a great Trade in Beavers and other Commodities. Westerly before the River _Chovacoet_ lies _Bacchus Isle_, full of Vineyards. [Sidenote: Remarkable manner of living.] The Inhabitants thereof differ very much from other Salvages, for they shave all the Hair from the Crown of their Head, wear long Locks behind, pleited together, and stuck full of Feathers, Paint their Faces black and red, and go arm’d with Clubs, Bows, Pikes, and Arrows pointed with Fish-bones: They Till their Ground very handsomly, and divide their Fields with Hedges; they Plant Tobacco, Vines, Cabbages, _Maiz_, and divers Colour’d Beans; the stalks of the _Maiz_ serve in stead of Poles for their Beans to run up upon. Beyond _Cape de Rocher_ lies the brave Harbor _Beauport_, which is secur’d from all Winds by an Isle which lies in the midst of it. The Countrey Manur’d in most places, and Fruitful, feeds store of Men and Cattel. The Haven of _Malabar_ is surrounded in a manner with little Huts, cover’d with Mats, which in the Middle of the Room have a hole for the Smoke to go out at. The Southern shore is Sandy, and very dangerous. For the more full exemplification of what concerns this part of _Nova Francia_, we shall conclude with an account of all Material Passages relating to the _French_, from their own Narrations as followeth. [Sidenote: _Quartier_’s Expedition.] [Sidenote: Scurvy, when known.] [Sidenote: Exploit of _de la Roque_.] The first discoverer of this Coast was _Jaques Quartier_, sent out _Anno 1534._ by the _French_ King, _Francis_ the First, in which Expedition he spent five Months; and going from thence to St. _Male_, discover’d the Inlet _Lawrence_, _Terreneuf_, and _Natiscotec_. The following year prosecuting his Voyage, he Sail’d into the great River _Canada_, and Winter’d near St. _Croix_, where he lost divers of his Men by the Scurvy, a Distemper till that time altogether unknown; and such was his condition, that none of his Men had escap’d with life, had not the Inhabitants taught him to cure the same with the Bark and Leaves of the Tree _Annedda_; with which many recovering, _Quartier_ Weigh’d Anchor, and treacherously carry’d the King _Donnacona_ with many of his Nobles, Prisoners to _France_; but most of them dying, _Quartier_ brought only a few of them back with him in his third Voyage, six years after the first, when arriving in the Haven St. _Croix_, he cast up a strong Fort, which he nam’d _Charlesbourg Royal_, where he staid a whole Winter. _Joan de la Roque_, whom the _French_ King had made Governor of _Quartier_’s new-discover’d Countries, Sailing thither with three Ships, met with _Quartier_’s Fleet near _Terreneuf_; from whence he was then going home, because he saw no hopes of subduing the Salvages with so small a Force as he had brought with him from _France_. But _de la Roque_ endeavoring to make a further discovery of _Canada_, Sail’d up the River _Saguenay_, where spending both time and Money, he was Commanded home by the _French_ King, and the fruitless Expeditions lay dead till about 1604. [Sidenote: Of _de Monts_.] [Sidenote: Of _Poutrincourt_.] When _Peter de Monts_ obtaining Letters Patents to Trade for Furs in the foremention’d Countries, Sail’d with two Ships beyond _Accadie_, up St. _Lawrence Bay_, where he Landed on the Isle St. _Croix_, where of ninety seven Men, with which he staid there a whole Winter, he lost thirty five; but having fresh Supplies sent him from _France_, he remov’d to _Port Royal_, where leaving forty Men, he return’d home; these forty being reduc’d to twenty three, and in great want, walking along the Sea-shore in a despairing condition, espy’d a Ship coming up with full Sail, which upon nearer approach, prov’d a _French_ Vessel, of which _Poutrincourt_ was Commander, who receiving his wretched Countrey-men with great joy, took them with him to _Port Royal_, being sent thither on purpose to settle a Plantation in _Accadie_: Meanwhile the Letters Patent granted to _Monts_, being call’d in, the first Planters in _Port Royal_ were forc’d to desert the same, and return home; and also _Poutrincourt_ returning, came back again three years after to _Port Royal_, where finding the Houses standing as he had left them, he Manur’d the Countrey all about, and endeavoring to Plant _Christianity_ among the Natives, Christen’d among others an _Accadian_ Lord, who was above a hundred years old; all which _Poutrincourt_ Sailing back to France, related at the Court. [Sidenote: Remarkable Transactions of some _Jesuits_.] The _Jesuits_ being also inform’d thereof, obtain’d leave of the Queen to send _Peter Biard_ and _Euemond Masse_ thither, on pretence, that _Henry_ the Fourth had himself promis’d them the same Priviledge in his Life time. But the Merchants at _Diep_, which were concern’d in the new Plantations with _Poutrincourt_, opposing the going over of the foremention’d _Jesuits_, express’d themselves very violent against them, and laid to their charge the Blood of the late King, which they said was yet reaking in _Paris_: _What assurance_ (alleadg’d they) _had their Goods which were in the Custody of Men inclin’d to the_ Spaniards? _Must the_ Christian Religion _be promulgated? There are so many Orders of_ Monks _which may easily produce two Men; but if the Queen was resolv’d to send_ Jesuits _thither, they desir’d restauration of the Monies which they had disburs’d_: To which _Biard_ and _Masse_ harkening, gather’d up the demanded Monies, under pretence of being requir’d towards the Preaching of the _Christian Religion_ amongst these remote _Heathens_; by this means getting great Sums, they bought out the foremention’d Merchants, so that the new Plantations fell half to the _Jesuits_, who setting Sail, and arriving at _Port Royal_, turn’d all things topsiturvy, and so thwarted _Poutrincourt_ in his designs, that he was forc’d to complain to the _French_ Court of the _Jesuits_ oppression, whose aim it was to get all things into their own Possession; whereupon they Excommunicated _Poutrincourt_’s Son (who serv’d in his Father’s place at Court), and gain’d the Duke _Guereheville_ in _France_ to be of their Party, by promising him, that he should share in the new Plantations for a contracted Sum of Money: After this they receiv’d all sorts of Arms and Ammunition, with several Brass Guns, of the then King _Lewis_ the XIII. and other gifts Collected and gather’d out of their several Societies, for two new _Accadian_ Apostles. _Gilbert du Thet_, a subtile man of the same Order, transported their Necessaries. At this time all things going favorably with the _Jesuits_, they made themselves Masters of _Port Royal_, and began to raise a Fort on the River _Pemtagovet_; but there their happy Proceedings were stop’d, for Captain _Argal_ before-mention’d, Sailing thither in vindication of the _English_, was encounter’d by _du Thet_, (who firing the first Gun on _Argal_, was by him taken off with Chain-shot) and taking _Biard_ and _Masse_, carry’d them Prisoners to _Virginia_, and dismantled the Fort built at _Port Royal_, after which it was by King _James_ given by Patent to Sir _William Alexander_, as hath been already related, together with what of most remarkable hath happen’d since. SECT. VI. Norumbegua. [Sidenote: Whence denominated.] _Norumbegua_, lying between _Nova Scotia_ Northward, and _New England_ Southward, is so utterly not taken notice of by many as a distinct Province, that it might seem to be swallow’d up and lost in the two Countreys between which it lies, or at least to be thought a part of _Virginia_ or _New England_ (for _Virginia_ largely taken is said to contain _New England_, _Novum Belgium_, and _Virginia_, especially so call’d) and that so much the rather, because the _Bessabees_, accounted by _Sanson d’Abbeville_ an ancient People of _New England_, are written to have liv’d near the River _Penobscot_, which is reckon’d to be the same with _Pemtegovet_, or (as some will have it) _Norumbegua_, from which, or from a certain great City of that Name, the Country for fancy’s sake must needs be denominated; but since most commonly we find it nam’d and treated of apart, it will not be improper to follow that method, carrying the Bounds of _New England_ no farther Northward than the River _Quinnebequi_ or _Sagadahoc_, and so determining the main part of this Countrey to that space between the aforesaid River and _Pemtegovet_, excepting a small Southerly portion upon the Banks of the River _Chovacovet_; so that it appears chiefly situate under the forty third Degree of Northern Latitude. [Sidenote: Towns and Cities not certainly known.] As for the Towns or Cities of this Province, there is but a very uncertain account to be given, forasmuch as the pretended great City _Norumbegua_, from whence the Province should take its Appellation, is not acknowledg’d by any of the most authentick modern Writers, nor in any late Voyage or Discovery any mention made either of that or any other considerable Town or City. Dr. _Heylin_ supposeth it to be no other than _Agguncia_, a poor little Village, that seems compos’d of a company of Hutts or Sheaves, cover’d with the Skins of Beasts, or the Barks of Trees. But the most favourable conjecture is, that it might haply be the Ruines of an ancient Town, which the Natives call’d _Arambeck_, and had probably deserted it long before the arrival of the _Europeans_ in those parts; however, it is not very probable that the Name of the Countrey should be deriv’d from this City, if ever there were any such, or from the River, which appears to have been term’d _Norumbegua_ on purpose to make way for this derivation, whereas _Pemtegovet_ is the ancient Appellation that properly belongs to it; nor hath any modern one been apply’d to it but that of _Rio Grande_, by _Buno_ in his _Comment_ upon _Philip Cluverius_, upon what ground is hard to tell, since it is observ’d by _Heylin_ and others, to be neither large, nor otherwise much to be commended, being Navigable not above twenty or thirty Miles, in respect of its many great Cataracts and Falls of Water, an Inconvenience with which many other Rivers of _America_ are prejudic’d, and rendred impassable. Before and about the Mouth of this River, which is judg’d to be about eight or nine Miles broad, lie many small Islands, or rather Hills, inviron’d with Water, the chiefest of which is by the _French_ call’d _La Haute Isle_, from the high and Mountainous appearance of it to those that see it from afar off at Sea. The aforemention’d _Buno_, though he names, as belonging to _Norumbega_, these several places, _viz._ _Porto del Refugio_, _Porto Reale_, _Paradiso_, _Flora_, and _Angolema_, from some obscure _French_ testimonies, without particularising any Author, yet he afterwards confesses, that the Names given by the _French_, and those apply’d by the _Spaniards_, are so various and disagreeing, and breed such a confusion, that no Charts or Descriptions had concluded upon either. As for those who will have _Norumbega_ deriv’d from _Norwegia_, in respect of a Colony brought thither from _Norwey_, if the Etymologie be not a little too much forc’d, the Invention may pass well enough till a better be found out. [Sidenote: The temperature and nature of its Soil.] In this Countrey the temperature of the Air is not bad, nor the Soil unfruitful, if it were well cultivated, chiefly towards the Rivers, and where it is not either overgrown with Woods, or craggy with Hills and mountainous Rocks: neither are the Woods unprofitable, for they afford good Timber, and all kind of necessary and useful Wood, especially Beeches, Fir-trees, Wallnut-trees, and other Nuts: The Plains are very pleasant, and yield good Pasturage, onely the Maritime Coasts are so shallow and full of Sands, that the Sailing near them is accounted somewhat dangerous; and this may be imagin’d to be the reason that no Authors have yet met with any Ports or Havens belonging to this Countrey, which they have thought worthy their notice. [Illustration] CHAP. II. New England. As _Canada_ is by some accounted a general Province, containing _New France_, _L’Accadie_, _Norumbega_, and other places, so under _Virginia_ largely taken, are comprehended _New England_, _New Netherlands_, and _Virginia_ properly so call’d; however, since that part which vulgarly goes under the Name of _Virginia_ and _New England_ were possess’d, if not discover’d, at several times, and their Plantations promoted and propagated upon several occasions, and by distinct Interests, and since _New England_ hath been look’d upon as a place considerable enough for Persons of very eminent quality to concern themselves in it, we rather are induc’d to consider this Countrey as a principal part, than as any way depending on, or being any Branch or Portion of _Virginia_. [Sidenote: Situation of _New England_.] It lies between _Norumbega_, which it hath Northward, and _New Netherlands_ Southward, from forty one to forty five Degrees of Northern Latitude, in the midst of the temperate Zone, and paralell to _France_ and some part of _Italy_ in the Western Hemisphere, so that one would think it should enjoy the same temperature of Air; but the contrary is found, for that part which borders upon the Sea is colder, partly by reason that the Sea-waves break the reflexion of the Sun-beams, partly by reason of the abundance of Vapors, which mounting upward, abate the ardor of them; but the more Inland parts of the Countrey are indifferently warm: Moreover it hath been found by certain experience, that those Countreys which look towards the East, or Sun-rising, are colder than those which lie towards the West, or Sun-setting, and those that have the Evening Winds on them, warmer than those which have the Morning Winds; which being so, it should follow, that the temperature of the Air in those Regions is peculiar to the Bodies of those of our Nation, who being accustom’d to a Climate somewhat temperate, are neither able to endure extremity of Cold, nor immoderate Heat: Yet there are who affirm, that _New England_, though situate in the midst of the temperate Zone, nevertheless feels both extremities of the two opposite Zones, in the Summer the heat of the Torrid, and in the Winter the cold of the Frigid. [Sidenote: First discovery.] As for the first discovery of this Countrey, it is not to be expected otherwise than that of the discovery of those other Countreys hitherto discours’d of, that is to say very uncertain; but because the _French_ boast of _Joannes Verrazanus_ (who though an _Italian_, was employ’d by the French King _Francis_ the First) as the first Discoverer, not onely of _Nova Francia_, as hath been already intimated, but also of this Countrey and the adjoyning Coast and Regions, we shall not think it impertinent to give from their own Relations, a brief view of his Voyage, and afterwards a particular Description of the _English_ Plantations there, and of their Transactions, both one with another, and between them and the Nations. The Narration of _Verrazanus_’s Voyage is as followeth: [Sidenote: Remarkable Voyage of _Verrazanus_.] “On command of the _French_ King _Francis_ the First, _John Verrazanus_, _Anno 1524._ setting Sail Westward from the _Canary_ Isles, discover’d a low _American_ Coast, in thirty four Degrees North Latitude, inhabited by naked People, which behind the sandy Hills facing the Sea, Manur’d many fruitful Plains. Then Sailing a hundred Leagues along the Shore Northerly, he view’d a Countrey full of Vines, which grew up amongst the Boughs of high Trees; and Sailing up a pleasant River, Landed on the Island _Clandia_, full of woody Mountains: thence he stood for the main Continent; where after having visited a King, Clad in wrought Deer-skin, he Sail’d by a Bay, at whose Mouth appear’d a Rock in an Inlet, twenty Leagues; where appear’d five small Isles, all of them exceeding fruitful. After this (being got a hundred and fifty Leagues to the Northward) he found very salvage People, whose Heads appear’d through Bear-skins and Sea-Calves. By this time having _Terreneuf_ on his Starboard, he return’d back to _Diepe_.” Thus far _Verrazanus_ made some discovery of the Coast, which hath since not onely been farther inspected by the _English_, but also by them Planted and call’d _New England_. [Sidenote: The setling of Plantations.] This Countrey, whether first discover’d by the said _Verrazanus_, or together with the rest of largely-taken _Virginia_, by Sir _Walter Raleigh_, or, as some say, by Captain _Gosnald_, in the Year 1602. was so well known to the _English_ in the beginning of King _James_’s Reign here, that the setling and carrying on of Plantations in this part of _America_, was vigorously promoted by many of the most eminent Persons in _England_: whereupon it was about the Year 1606. being the fourth Year of the said King, granted by Patent to several Lords, Knights, Gentlemen and Merchants, under the denomination of _The Plymouth Company_, both in favour of those generous Spirits, who studied and endeavor’d the good of the Publick by foreign Plantations, and indulgence to those, who not well satisfi’d with the Government of Church and State, and willingly transporting themselves and Families thither, as to their _Asylum_, could more conveniently be spar’d than the better affected part of the People: And although the Colonies at first sent over succeeded not according to expectation, yet in a short time there Plantations were brought to very great perfection. Captain _Weimouth_, who had been employ’d there by the Lord _Arundel_ of _Warder_, for the discovery of the North-West Passage, falling short of his Course, hapned into a River on the Coast of _America_, call’d _Pemmaquid_; from whence he brought five of the Natives for _England_, three of whose Names were _Mannida_, _Skettwarroes_ and _Tasquantum_, and Landing at _Plymouth_, presented them to Sir _Ferdinando Gorges_, whom he made use of as Instruments for the farther advancement of these Plantations: they were all of one Nation, but of several parts, and several Families; he kept them with him three years, and observing in them an inclination to vertuous Designs, and Spirits above the Vulgar, he gain’d information from them what great Rivers ran up into the Land, what Men of note were seated on them, what Power they were of, how Ally’d, what Enemies they had, and the like; and taking some light from thence, sent away a Ship, furnish’d with Men, and all kind of Necessaries convenient for the Service intended, under the Command of Captain _Henry Chaloung_, a Gentleman of a good Family, and very capable for Undertakings of this nature; and giving him sufficient Instructions what to do, sent along with him two of the said Natives for his better Conduct and Direction, ordering him by all means to keep the Northerly Gage as high as _Cape Briton_, till they had discover’d the Main, and then to beat it up to the Southward as the Coast tended, till they found by the Natives they were near the place to which they were assign’d. By that time they were about a hundred Leagues off the Island of _Canara_, the Captain fell sick of a Feaver, and the Winds being Westerly, his Company shap’d their Course for the _Indies_, and coming to _St. John de Porto Rico_, the Captain went ashore for the recovery of his Health, whilst the Company took in Water, and such other Provisions as they had present need of, and spent some time in Hunting, and other Recreations; after which steering their intended Course, they were met with by the _Spanish_ Fleet that came from the _Havana_, taken Prisoners and carried into _Spain_, the Ship and Goods being confiscated, the Voyage overthrown, and the Natives lost. Not long after the setting out of _Chaloung_, _Thomas Haman_ was sent by Sir _John Popham_, Lord Chief Justice of _England_, towards the River of _Sagadehoc_, to the succour of _Chaloung_, if need were; but not finding him, after he had scowr’d the Coast all about, he return’d back into _England_. Captain _Prinne_ was likewise sent from _Bristol_, who arriving happily in those Parts, brought back with him at his return the most exact Discovery of that Coast that ever had been gain’d till then. A while after, at the Charge of the said Sir _John Popham_, a hundred Men were sent to settle a Colony at _Sagadehoc_, under the Command of _George Popham_, _Raleigh Gilbert_, Master of the Ship, who seated themselves in a _Peninsula_, at the Mouth of this River; which attempting to discover, they met with a Wood near to an Island, distant from the Line about forty five Degrees, and some odd Seconds, where they easily went on Shore. In the Year 1608. the Commander of the Colony deceasing, and not long after him the Lord Chief Justice, who had been the chief that had furnish’d them with fresh Supplies, they return’d for _England_ in those Ships that had been sent them with Succours: At which unexpected return, the Patrons of the Design were so offended, that for a certain time they desisted from their Enterprizes. In the mean while the _French_ making use of this occasion, Planted Colonies in divers places, when Sir _Samuel Argal_ from _Virginia_ disturb’d their Designs, and brought away Prisoners all he could lay hold on. Suddenly after Captain _Hobson_ and divers others were set out with very great Preparations, and with them two of the Natives which had been detain’d for some time in _England_, whom they thought to have made use of, the better to draw the rest of the Natives to their Commerce; but because a little before twenty four of them had been treacherously dealt with by one _Hunt_, they contracted from thence so great an animosity towards the _English_, that Captain _Hobson_ was constrain’d to return without effecting any thing. In the Year 1614. Captain _John Smith_ being sent to Fish for Whales, and seek after Mines of Gold and Silver, Landed upon the Island of _Monahiggan_, where he found some store of Whales, but not such as those by whose Oyl they use to make so much profit. About the same time (two of the Natives being recover’d, _Erpenow_ of _Capawick_, that had escap’d from Captain _Hobson_, and _Assacumet_ of _Pemmaquid_, one of those that had been taken Prisoners with _Chaloung_) Captain _Harly_, with Necessaries convenient for such a Voyage, was dispatch’d away by Sir _Ferdinando Gorges_, the Earl of _Southampton_ favouring the Design, and furnishing him with some Land-Soldiers under the Command of Captain _Hobson_, who not discourag’d with his former ill Success, resolv’d upon a second Adventure. In the Year 1615. Sir _Richard Hakings_ undertook a Voyage into those Parts by authority of the Council of the second Colony, but by reason of the great Wars among the Natives, his Observations could not be such as might give any farther light than what had been already receiv’d. Soon after which Captain _Dormer_ coming for _England_ from _New-found-Land_, and Landing at _Plymouth_, apply’d himself to the Governor, by whom he was dispatch’d away, with Direction to meet Captain _Rocroft_, sent away a little before; but _Rocroft_ being dead by that time _Dormer_ could come after him to _Virginia_, where he heard he was, he returning to _Capawick_, was there set upon by _Erpenow_, the foremention’d Salvage, and other _Indians_ that were Conspirators with him; and within a short while after at _Virginia_, whither he went to be cur’d of the Wounds he receiv’d in that Assassination, he fell sick and died. About the Year 1623. Captain _Robert Gorges_, newly come out of the _Venetian_ War, was employ’d by the Council of _New Englands_ Affairs as the Lieutenant-General, to regulate the Abuses of divers Fisher-men and other Interlopers, who without License frequented those Coasts: for which Service he had assign’d to him all that part of the main Land situate upon the North-East side of the Bay of the _Messachasets_. By these several Colonies sent so thick one after another, both a full Discovery of the Countrey came to be made, and a large gap open’d to the free possession thereof; yet in regard of the many disappointments and misfortunes the several Companies sent over met with, and counting the vast Charges their setting forth cost the Undertakers, which would have been still increas’d by the need of continu’d Supplies, in all probability _New England_ would have been but thinly peopled to this day, had not a great Tide of People, possess’d with an aversion to the Church-Government of _England_, and fled into _Holland_ for _Liberty of Conscience_, eagerly taken hold of this opportunity to make themselves Masters of their own Opinions, and of a Place where they might erect a Government suitable thereunto: and though at first there were some Exceptions taken, as if this Countrey was to be made a Receptacle of Sectaries, and such as condemn’d the Ecclesiastical Government of the Nation, insomuch that Sir _Ferdinando Gorges_, to whom they apply’d themselves, desiring him to mediate for them to the Council of _New Englands_ Affairs, when they perceiv’d the Authority they had from the _Virginia_ Company, could not warrant their abode there, had enough to do (notwithstanding his Apology, _That these things hapned contrary to his expectation_) to wipe away the jealousie which was entertain’d of him, it being Order’d, that no more should be suffer’d to pass into _New England_, but such as should take the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy: yet at last there was little notice taken who went, perhaps upon consideration, that the vast resort of People thither would be of greater advantage to the Plantations, than their different Opinions, at so remote a distance, could be prejudicial, so long as they acknowledg’d Obedience to the King and Civil Power: However, Sir _Ferdinando_, to clear himself the better, mov’d those Lords that were the chief Actors in the Business, to resign their Grand Patent to the King, and pass particular Patents to themselves of such part of the Countrey along the Sea-Coast, as might be sufficient for them: To this Motion there being a general Assent given by the Lords, and a Day appointed for the conclusion thereof, an Act was made for the Resignation of the Patent, alloting to each Man their several Bounds. From the uttermost parts began the Limits of the Lord _Mougrave_, and ended at _Hudson_’s _River_. To the Eastward of which River, for the space of sixty Miles in length, was placed the Duke of _Richmond_’s Assignment: Next to him was setled the Earl of _Carlile_: Next him the Lord _Edward Gorges_: Next the Marquess of _Hamilton_: Then Captain _John Mason_: And lastly his own, which extended to the great River _Sagadehoc_, being sixty Miles, and so up into the Main Land a hundred and twenty Miles, which he was pleas’d to call by the Name of _The Province of Main_. The Landing of the _English_ in _Plymouth_ Plantation was very much facilitated by the great Mortality that hapned amongst the _Indians_ about that time, amongst the _Pecods_, _Narragansets_, _Nianticks_, _Tarantines_, _Wippanaps_, and those of _Abargini_, _Agissawang_, and _Pockanekie_, their _Powwows_, or Doctors, seeing with amazement their _Wigwams_, or Streets, lie full of dead Bodies, and in vain expecting help from _Squantam_ their good, or _Abbamoch_ their bad God. Not long before, that blazing Comet, so much talk’d of in _Europe_, apppear’d after Sun-setting in their Horizon South-West for the space of thirty Sleeps, (for so they reckon their Days). They Landed at first with little or no resistance, a handful of Men onely being sent before to keep possession for their Companions, who arriv’d eight days after; when the Natives appearing with their Bowes and Arrows, let flie their long Shafts amongst them; whereupon one Captain _Miles Standish_ with his Fowling-piece shot the stoutest _Sachem_ amongst the _Indians_, as he was reaching an Arrow from his Quiver; which the rest seeing, fled into the Woods and Thickets. The same Year the _Merchant-Adventurers_ in _England_ sent forth store of Servants to provide against the Wants of that place; amongst whom came over a mix’d Multitude, who setled themselves in the Bosom of the Cape now call’d _Gloucester_. About the Year 1631. there fled to the _English_ at _Water-town_ the _Indians_ that dwelt thereabouts, for protection against the _Tarratines_, a sort of cruel and salvage Cannibals, by whom near the Town of _Saugust_, in the very dead time of the Night, one Lieutenant _Walker_ being on a sudden alarm’d, was shot through his Coat and Buff Jacket with two Indian Arrows. That Night the _English_ stood upon their Guard, and the next Morning sent word to other parts; who gather’d together, and taking counsel how to quit themselves of these _Indians_, agreed to discharge their great Guns; whose redoubled noise, ratling in the Rocks, struck terror into the _Indians_, and caus’d them to betake themselves to flight. The Autumn following, others of the _Indians_, who till then had held a good correspondence with the Planters, began to quarrel about the Bounds of their Land; but a great Mortality, by the raging of the Small-Pox, breaking out amongst them, put an end to that Controversie: There died amongst the rest one of the chief of the _Sagamores_ of the _Mattachusets_, call’d _Sagamore John_, who before his Death had been instructed in the _Christian_ Faith, and took care that his two Sons should be nurtured therein. In the Year 1635. there arrived several Ships with great plenty of Provisions, and many Persons of good Quality, and amongst the rest Sir _Henry Vane_. The same Year the People of _Cambridge_, otherwise call’d _New-town_, hearing of a fertile place upon the River _Canectico_, remov’d thither, and erected a new Corporation by the Name of _Banectico_, being encourag’d thereunto by the Lord _Say_ and the Lord _Brooks_, and planting a Forrest at the mouth of the River, call’d it _Saybrook Forrest_. About the Year 1638. the _Pequods_, a stout and Warlike Nation, lying to the South-West of the _Mattachusets_, were discover’d upon their March within some few Miles of _Hartford_: Their coming very much terrifi’d all that inhabited thereabouts; but they took onely three Women and return’d; one of whom making a violent resistance, had her Brains beaten out; the other two they carried away with them, without abusing their Persons, as it was suppos’d they would, for they esteem’d their own _Shaws_, being black, beyond our Women. Their chief Design was to learn to make Gunpowder; which seeing they could not effect, they look’d upon their Prize as nothing so precious as they imagin’d. A little after another _Indian_ War threatning the _English_, they resolv’d together to send an Ambassador to _Cannonicus_, chief _Sachem_ of the _Naragansits_, endeavoring to prevent him from confederating with the _Pequods_, who (as they had Intelligence) were about sending to him to joyn with them: _Cannonicus_ being grown old, had resign’d the Government to his Nephew _Mantinemo_, a stern Man, and of a cruel Nature. The Ambassadors arriving at his Court, which was about eighty Miles from _Boston_, the _Indian_ Prince assembled his chief Councellors, and having Entertain’d the Ambassadors Magnificently, and Feasted them Royally, gave them Audience in his State-house; where the _Sachem_, to manifest his greater State, lay along upon the Ground, with all his Nobility sitting about him, with their Legs doubled up, and their Knees touching their Chin: The _English_ Interpreter having made his Speech in the Name of the rest, both _Cannonicus_ and the young King gave discreet Answers, signifying their Resolutions to keep a fair Correspondence with the _English_, and yet not to fall out with the _Pequods_: Who a little after making also their Addresses to the same King, he disswaded them by many Reasons from making War with the _English_, and to deliver into their hands those Persons that had murther’d any of them. The _Pequods_ nevertheless, though they seem’d inclinable to his Counsel, yet they acted as Enemies; for when the _English_ sent a Company of Soldiers into their Countrey to treat with them about delivering up the Murtherers, they made shew of willingness, but spying their advantage, betook themselves to their Heels; and whomsoever they took stragling by surprise, they revil’d and insulted over in a most cruel manner, vilifying the _Christian_ Religion, and uttering all the Blasphemies they could invent. Whereupon they rais’d fresh Souldiers for the War, to the number of fourscore, out of the several Towns in the _Mattachusets_, and with some _Indian_ Guides came to their Fort, within which they had pitch’d their _Wigwams_, the Entrance being on two sides, with intricate Meanders to enter; at which were plac’d _Indian_ Bowe-men, who shot the foremost of the _English_; yet they had little to boast of in the end, for the _English_ rushing in through the winding Ways, and placing themselves round the _Wigwams_, made a very prosperous Shot, by directing the Muzzles of their Musquets against the _Indians_ which lay sleeping on the Ground: In the midst of which rouzing terror and confusion they were defeated with little ado, most of them being either wounded, kill’d, or taken. The _English_ thus animated with the first Victory, send their Prisoners to the Pinnaces, and prosecute the War in Hand, marching against the next Body of the _Indians_, which lay Encamp’d on a Hill about two Miles distant, where they gave them a second Overthrow, slaying many more than in the first Engagement; the rest flying to a very thick inaccessible Swamp or Bog, were there besieg’d by the _English_; and skulking up and down, as they saw their opportunity they would Shoot at them with their Arrows, and then suddenly fall flat along in the Water; at last the _English_ finding out a Passage into the Swamp, utterly defeated them, and put an end to the War with the loss of few Mens Lives, and not many wounded. In the Year 1640. there came over a fresh Supply of People into _New England_, and finding no place to settle in within any of the former erected Colonies, they repair’d to a place call’d _Long Island_, sever’d from the Continent of _New-Haven_, about sixty Miles off the Sea. The Year following the four Colonies, namely the _Massachusets_, _Plymouth_, _Canectico_, and _New-Haven_, taking into consideration the many Nations that were on all sides of them, as the _French_, _Dutch_, _Jews_, and native _Indians_; as also how the three first went to lay claim to Lands they never had any right to, and the last to be continually quarrelling and contending, where they saw any hopes of prevailing, by Commissioners chosen from the respective Colonies, concluded a firm Confederation to assist each other in all just and lawful Wars; upon which there came in certain _Indian Sachems_, as _Pomham_, _Miantonemo_, _Soccanocoh_, and _Uncas_, who not onely submitted to the _English_ Government, but also, if occasion were, in matters of Controversie submitted to their Arbitration: But the Contest between _Miantonemo_ and _Uncas_ was too hot to be appeas’d, (though the _English_ were not wanting to interpose) unless by the Blood of one of them, as will appear by the Consequence: _Uncas_ was a Prince of _For_, whose Life _Miantonemo_, though a much more potent Prince, sought to take away by treachery, hiring a young Man of the _Pequod_ Nation to murther him, as the following Story renders suspected; for one dark Evening this _Sachem_ passing from one _Wigwam_ to another, was Shot through the Arm with an Arrow; but recovering the Palace, had the Arrow pull’d out, and his Arm cur’d: the young Man that was suspected being examin’d, how he came by that great store of _Wampompeage_ which was found about him, and being able to give no good account, it increas’d the suspicion, and induc’d _Uncas_ to complain to the _English_ at a General Court held at _Boston_: Whereupon the young Man was Examin’d in the presence of _Miantonemo_, who came thither with his Attendants; but the young Man tutor’d, as suppos’d, by _Miantonemo_, pretended that _Uncas_ had enjoyn’d him to feign that he was hir’d by _Miantonemo_ to kill him: To which Tale of his little belief being given, it was concluded upon farther Examination of him in private that he had done the Fact: nevertheless they let him depart with _Miantonemo_, advising him to send him home to _Uncas_; but he in stead of returning him cut off his Head, and forthwith gather’d an Army of a thousand Men to fight with _Uncas_; who met him with half the Men: the Battel being joyn’d, the _Narragansets_, though the far greater multitude, were beaten by the _Wawhiggins_, through the Valour of _Uncas_ their Prince; who perfected his Victory by possessing himself of the Person of _Miantonemo_, whom, having put his Life-guard to flight, he carried away with him in triumph to the Town of _Hartford_, desiring to have the advice of the United Colonies what to do with his Prisoner: Whereupon the Commissioners having had sufficient proof of _Miantonemo_’s treachery towards this Prince, advis’d _Uncas_ to put him to death, but not to exercise that barbarous kind of cruelty which is usual amongst them in these Cases. The _Sachem_, upon this advice, not long after pretended to remove him to a safer place, but by the Way caus’d him to be Executed: His Subjects and Kindred were troubled at his Death, but the little Princes his Neighbors, over whom he had tyranniz’d, rather rejoyc’d. In the Year 1645, the Sons of old _Canonnicus_, their Father being dead, began to fall into hot Contentions with their Neighbors, and being forbidden by the United Colonies, they did not stick to threaten Wars to the _English_ also. Whereupon the Commissioners rais’d an Army of Horse and Foot, and made Major General _Edward Gibbons_ Commander in Chief over them. But the _Indians_ hearing of this Preparation, sent some of their chief Nobility to the Commissioners of the United Colonies, who were assembled at _Boston_, to Treat about Peace; to which the Commissioners agreed, upon condition they should pay a part of the Charges of the War; and that they should send four of their Sons for Hostages till the Sum was paid; and the Hostages being sent back before the _Wapom_ was all paid, the two Princes, _Pesicus_ and _Mexanimo_, upon the sending a Company of Armed Men to demand it, sent the remainder of the Money. In the Year 1647. divers Persons of Quality ventur’d their Estates upon an Iron Mill, which they began at _Braintree_, but it profited the Owners little, rather wasting their Stock, the price of Labor in matters of that nature, being double or treble to what it is in _England_. These are the most material Transactions we find deliver’d by any one which hapned from the first discovery till the Year before mention’d: what hath hapned from that time to this, chiefly relates to the several Revolutions that have been in _England_, and shall be therefore taken notice of when we come to speak of the Government of these Plantations. [Sidenote: The Commodities of this Countrey, together with the Trees and other sorts of Plants.] Though there are, who having remain’d some time, and been concern’d in those Parts, affirm the Soil of _New England_ to be nothing so fruitful as it is believ’d and commonly deliver’d to be, yet we think it not improper to give a brief account of the Trees and other Plants; also the Beasts, Birds, Fishes, and other Commodities which most Writers will have to be the production of this Countrey, especially since we find them compactly summ’d up by an unknown Writer in the Language of the _Muses_. The recital of the Plants and Trees, which (excepting the Cedar, _Sassafras_, and Dyers _Sumach_) are all of the same kind with those that grow in _Europe_, onely differing in nature, according as the Epithets of many of them declare, is as follows: _Trees both in Hills and Plains in plenty be; The long-liv’d Oak, and mournful Cypress Tree; Skie-towring Pines, and Chesnuts coated rough; The lasting Cedar, with the Walnut tough; The Rozen-dropping Fir, for Mast in use; The Boat-men seek for Oars light, neat grown Sprewse; The brittle Ash, the ever-trembling Asps; The broad-spread Elm, whose Concave harbors Wasps; The Water-spungy Alder, good for nought; Small Eldern by the_ Indian _Fletchers sought; The knotty Maple, pallid Birch, Hawthorns; The Horn-bound Tree, that to be cloven scorns; Which from the tender Vine oft takes his Spouse, Who twines embracing Arms about his Boughs. Within this_ Indian _Orchard Fruits be some; The ruddy Cherry, and the jetty Plumb; Snake-murthering Hazle, with sweet Saxafrage, Whose Leaves in Beer allay hot Feavers rage; The Dyers Shumach, with more Trees there be, That are both good to use, and rare to see_. [Sidenote: Beasts.] The Beasts peculiar to this Countrey are the _Moose_, the _Rackoon_, and the _Musquash_; the two first Land-Animals, the last Amphibious, which with others common to them with us, are thus versifi’d by the abovesaid Author: _The Kingly Lyon, and the strong-arm’d Bear; The large limb’d Mooses, with the tripping Deer; Quill-darting Porcupines, that Rackoons be Castled ith’ hollow of an aged Tree; The skipping Squirrel, Rabbet, purblind Hare, Immured in the self-same Castle are, Lest red-ey’d Ferrets, wily Foxes should, Them undermine, if Ramper’d but with Mold; The grim-fac’d Ounce, and rav’nous howling Wolf, Whose meagre Paunch sucks like a swallowing Gulph; Black glittering Otters, and rich Coated Beaver; The Civet-scented Musquash smelling ever._ Of such of these as are altogether unknown to us, take these brief Descriptions. [Sidenote: The _Moose_.] The Beast call’d a _Moose_, is not much unlike red Deer, and is as big as an Ox, slow of Foot, Headed like a Buck, with a broad Beam, some being two Yards wide in the Head, their flesh is as good as Beef, their Hides good for Clothing; if these were kept tame, and accustom’d to the Yoke, they would be a great Commodity: First, because they are so fruitful, bringing forth three at a time being likewise very uberous: Secondly, because they will live in Winter without any Fodder. There are not many of these in the _Massachusets_ Bay, but forty Miles to the North-East there are great store of them. [Sidenote: The _Rackoon_.] The _Rackoon_ is a deep Furr’d Beast, not much unlike a Badger, having a Tail like a Fox, as good Meat as a Lamb: These Beasts in the day time sleep in hollow Trees, in a Moon-shine night they go to feed on Clams at a low Tide, by the Sea side, where the _English_ hunt them with their Dogs. [Sidenote: The _Musquash_.] The _Musquash_ is much like a Beaver for shape, but nothing near so big; the Male hath two Stones, which smell as sweet as Musk, and being kill’d in Winter, never lose their sweet smell: These Skins are no bigger than a Coney-skin, yet are sold for five Shillings apiece, being sent for Tokens into _England_; one good Skin will perfume a whole house full of Clothes, if it be right and good. [Sidenote: Birds.] The Birds both common and peculiar are thus recited. _The Princely Eagle, and the soaring Hawk, Whom in their unknown ways there’s none can chawk: The Humbird for some Queens rich Cage more fit, Than in the vacant Wilderness to sit. The swift-wing’d Swallow sweeping to and fro, As swift as Arrow from_ Tartarian _Bowe. When as_ Aurora’s _Infant day new springs, There th’morning mounting Lark her sweet lays sings. The harmonious Thrush, swift Pigeon, Turtle-dove, Who to her Mate doth ever constant prove: The_ Turky-_Pheasant, Heath-cock, Partridge rare, The Carrion-tearing Crow, and hurtful Stare, The long-liv’d Raven, th’ominous Screech-Owl, Who tells, as old Wives say, disasters foul. The drowsie Madge that leaves her day-lov’d Nest, And loves to rove, when Day-birds be at rest: Th’Eel-murthering Hearn, and greedy Cormorant, That near the Creeks in morish Marshes haunt. The bellowing Bittern, with the long-leg’d Crane, Presaging Winters hard, and dearth of Grain. The Silver Swan that tunes her mournful breath, To sing the Dirge of her approaching death. The tattering Oldwives, and the cackling Geese, The fearful Gull that shuns the murthering Peece. The strong-wing’d Mallard, with the nimble Teal, And ill-shape’t Loon, who his harsh Notes doth squeal. There Widgins, Sheldrakes and Humilitees, Snites, Doppers, Sea-Larks, in whole million flees._ Of these the _Humbird_, _Loon_, and _Humility_ are not to be pass’d by without particular observation. [Sidenote: The _Humbird_.] The _Humbird_ is one of the wonders of the Countrey, being no bigger than a Hornet, yet hath all the Dimensions of a Bird, as Bill, and Wings with Quills, Spider-like Legs, small Claws: for Colour, she is as glorious as the Rain-bow; as she flies, she makes a little humming noise like a Humble-bee, wherefore she is call’d the _Humbird_. [Sidenote: The _Loon_.] [Sidenote: The _Humility_, or _Simplicity_.] The _Loon_ is an ill-shap’d thing like a Cormorant, but that he can neither go nor flie; he maketh a noise sometimes like Sowgelders Horn. The _Humilities_ or _Simplicities_ (as we may rather call them) are of two sorts, the biggest being as large as a green Plover; the other as big as Birds we call _Knots_ in _England_. Such is the simplicity of the smaller sorts of these Birds, that one may drive them on a heap like so many Sheep, and seeing a fit time shoot them; the living seeing the dead, settle themselves on the same place again, amongst which the Fowler discharges again: These Birds are to be had upon Sandy Brakes, at the latter end of Summer before the Geese come in. [Sidenote: Fishes.] No less Poetical a Bill of Fare is brought of the Fish on the Sea-Coasts, and in the Rivers of _New England_ in these subsequent Verses. _The King of Waters, the Sea shouldering Whale, The snuffing Grampus, with the Oily Seale, The storm presaging Porpus, Herring-Hog, Line-shearing Shark, the Catfish and Sea Dog, The Scale-fenc’d Sturgeon, wry-mouth’d Hollibut, The flounsing Salmon, Codfish, Greedigut: Cole, Haddock, Hage, the Thornback, and the Scate, Whose slimy outside makes him seld in date, The stately Bass, old_ Neptune’s _fleeting Post, That Tides it out and in from Sea to Coast. Consorting Herrings, and the bonny Shad, Big-belly’d Alewives, Mackrills richly clad With Rainbow colours, Frostfish and the Smelt, As good as ever Lady_ Gustus _felt. The spotted Lamprons, Eels, the Lamperies, That seek fresh Water-Brooks with_ Argus _Eyes, These watery Villagers, with thousands more, Do pass and repass near the Verdant Shore_. Kinds of Shell-fish. _The luscious Lobster, with the Crabfish raw, The brinish Oyster, Muscle, Periwigge, And Tortoise sought for by the_ Indian _Sqaw, Which to the Flats dance many a Winters Jigge, To dive for Cocles, and to dig for Clams, Whereby her lazie Husbands guts she crams_. [Sidenote: The _Seal_.] To speak of the most unusual of these sorts of Fish; First the _Seal_, which is call’d the _Sea-Calf_, his Skin is good for divers uses, his Body being between Flesh and Fish, it is not very delectable to the Palate, or congruent with the Stomack; his Oil is very good to burn in Lamps, of which he affords a great deal. [Sidenote: The _Shark_.] The _Shark_ is a kind of Fish as big as a Man, some as big as a Horse, with three rows of Teeth within his Mouth, with which he snaps asunder the Fishermans Lines, if he be not very circumspect: This Fish will leap at a Mans hand if it be over board, and with his Teeth snap off a Mans Leg or Hand if he be Swimming; these are often taken, being good for nothing but Manuring of Land. [Sidenote: The _Hollibut_.] The _Hollibut_ is not much unlike a Pleace or Turbut, some being two yards long, and one wide, a Foot thick; the plenty of better Fish makes these of little esteem, except the Head and Finns, which Stew’d or Bak’d is very good; these _Hollibuts_ be little set by while _Basse_ is in season. [Sidenote: The _Basse_.] The _Basse_ is one of the best Fishes in the Countrey, and though Men are soon weary’d with other Fish, yet are they never with _Basse_; it is a delicate, fine, fat, fast Fish, having a Bone in his Head which contains a Sawcerful of Marrow, sweet and good, pleasant to the Palate, and wholsom to the Stomack: When there be great store of them, we only eat the Heads, and Salt up the Bodies for Winter, which exceeds Ling or Haberdine: Of these Fishes some are three, and some four Foot long, some bigger, some lesser; at some Tides a Man may catch a dozen or twenty of these in three hours; the way to catch them is with Hook and Line: The Fisherman taking a great Cod-line, to which he fasteneth a piece of Lobster, throws it into the Sea, the Fish biting at it, he pulls her to him, and knocks her on the head with a Stick. [Sidenote: _Alewives._] _Alewives_ are a kind of Fish which is much like a Herring, which in the later end of _April_ come up to the fresh Rivers to Spawn, in such multitudes as is almost incredible, pressing up in such shallow Waters as will scarce permit them to Swim, having likewise such longing desire after the fresh Water Ponds, that no beatings with Poles, or forcive agitations by other devices, will cause them to return to the Sea, till they have cast their Spawn. [Sidenote: _Clamms_ or _Clamps_.] _Clamms_ or _Clamps_, are a Shell-fish not much unlike a Cockle, they lie under the Sand and have every one of them a round hole to take Air, and receive Water at. When the Tide ebbs and flows, a Man running over these _Clamm_ banks will presently be made all wet, by their spouting of Water out of those small holes: These Fishes are in great plenty in most places of the Countrey, which is a great Commodity for the feeding of Swine, both in Winter and Summer; for being once us’d to those places, they will repair to them as duly every Ebb, as if they were driven to them by Keepers: In some places of the Countrey there be _Clamms_ as big as a Peny white Loaf, which are great Dainties amongst the Natives, and would be in great esteem amongst the _English_, were it not for better Fish. Other Commodities which this Countrey is said to yield, are, in down-right Prose, Furrs, Flax, Linnen, Iron, Pitch, Masts, Cables, and some quantity of Amber; so that if what many Authors have consented to assert concerning _New England_ be not a meer Fiction, what e’re hath been affirm’d of the unfruitfulness of the Country will demonstrably be found invalid. [Sidenote: Noxious Creatures.] There are also to be found here some hurtful Creatures, of which, that which is most injurious to the Person and Life of a Man is the _Rattle-Snake_, which is generally a yard and a half long, as thick in the middle as the small of a Mans Leg; she hath a yellow Belly, her Back being spotted with black, russet, yellow, and green colours, plac’d like Scales; at her Tail is a Rattle, with which she makes a noise when she is molested, or when she seeth any approach near her; her Neck seems to be no thicker than a Mans Thumb, yet she can swallow a Squirril, having a great wide Mouth, with Teeth as sharp as Needles, wherewith she biteth such as tread upon her, her Poyson lyeth in her Teeth, for she hath no Sting. When any Man is bitten by any of these Creatures, the Poyson spreads so suddenly through the Veins, and so runs to the Heart, that in one hour it causeth Death, unless he hath the Antidote to expel the Poyson, which is a Root call’d _Snake-weed_, which must be champ’d, the Spittle swallow’d, and the Root apply’d to the Sore; this is present Cure against that which would be present death without it: This Weed is rank Poyson, if it be taken by any man that is not bitten; whosoever is bitten by these Snakes, his flesh becomes as spotted as a Leopard, until he be perfectly cur’d. It is reported, that if the Party live that is bitten, the Snake will die, and if the Party die, the Snake will live. This is a most Poysonous and dangerous Animal, yet nothing so bad as the report goes of it in _England_; for whereas it is said to kill a Man with its breath, and that it can flie, there is no such matter, for it is naturally the most sleepy and unnimble Creature that lives, never offering to leap or bite any Man, if it be not trodden on first; and it is their desire in hot weather to lie in Paths, where the Sun may shine on them, where they will sleep so soundly, that I have known four Men stride over one of them, and never awake it; five or six Men have been bitten by them, which by using of _Snake-weed_ were all cur’d, never any yet losing his life by them. Cows have been bitten, but being cut in divers places, and this Weed thrust into their flesh, were cur’d; A small Switch will easily kill one of these Snakes. In many places of the Country there be none of them, as at _Plymouth, New-town, Igowamme, Nahant, &c._ In some places they will live on one side of the River, and swimming but over the Water, as soon as they are come into the Woods, they turn up their yellow Bellies and die. Up into the Countrey, Westward from the Plantations, is a high Hill, which is call’d _Rattle-Snake-Hill_, where there are great store of these Poysonous Creatures. There are likewise troublesome Flies. First there is a wild Bee or Wasp, which commonly guards the Grape, building by Cobweb habitation amongst the Leaves: Secondly a great green Flie, not much unlike our Horse-Flies in _England_; they will nipp so sore, that they will fetch Blood either of Man or Beast, and are most troublesome where most Cattel are, which brings them from out of the Woods to the Houses; this Flie continues but for the Moneth of _June_. The third is _Gurnipper_, which is a small black Flie, no bigger than a Flea; her biting causeth an itching upon the Hands or Face, which provoketh scratching, which is troublesome to some; this Flie is busie but in close Mornings or Evenings, and continues not above three Weeks; the least Wind or heat expels them. The fourth is a _Musketor_, which is not unlike to our Gnats in _England_; in places where there is no thick Woods or _Swamps_, there are none or very few. In the new Plantations they are troublesome for the first year, but the Wood decaying they vanish: These Flies cannot endure Wind, heat or cold, so that these are only troublesome in close thick Weather, and against Rain, many that are bitten will fall a scratching, whereupon their Faces and Hands swell. [Sidenote: The nature of the ancient Inhabitants.] As touching the Nature of the ancient Inhabitants, they are to be consider’d according to their several Shires or Divisions; those that inhabit to the East and North-East bore the name of _Churchers_ and _Tarrenteens_; those in the Southern parts were call’d _Pequods_, and _Narragansets_; those Westward, _Connectacuts_ and _Mowhacks_; to the North-West, of whom were the _Aberginians_. [Sidenote: The nature of the _Mowhacks_.] The _Mowhacks_ were ever accounted a cruel bloudy People, which were wont to come down upon their poor Neighbors, with more than bruitish Savageness, spoiling their Corn, burning their Houses, slaying Men, ravishing Women, yea very _Canibals_ they were, sometimes eating on a Man one part after another before his Face, and while yet living; insomuch, that the very Name of a _Mowhack_ would strike the Heart of a poor _Aberginian_ dead, till they had the _English_ on their sides to succor them; for these inhumane Homicides confess that they dare not meddle with a white Fac’d Man, accompany’d with his hot-mouth’d Weapon. These _Indians_ are a People of tall Stature, long grim Visages, slender Wasted, and having exceeding great Arms and Thighs, wherein they say their strength lieth; which is such, that one of them hath been known to kill a Dog with a fillip of his Finger, and afterwards to have flead and sod him, and eat him to his Dinner. They are so hardy, that they can eat such things as would make other _Indians_ sick to look upon; being destitute of Fish and Flesh, they suffice Hunger and maintain Nature with the use of Vegetatives; but that which they most hunt after, is the flesh of Man: Their custom is, if they get a stranger near their Habitations, not to Butcher him immediately, but keep him in as good plight as they can, feeding him with the best Victuals they have. These _Indians_ are more desperate in Wars than the other _Indians_, which proceeds not only from the fierceness of their Natures, but also in that they know themselves to be better Arm’d and Weapon’d; all of them wearing Sea Horse Skins and Barks of Trees, made by their Art as impenetrable, it is thought, as Steel, wearing Head-Pieces of the same, under which they March securely and undantedly, running, and fiercely crying out, _Hadree Hadree succomee succomee_, _We come to suck your Blood_, not fearing the feather’d shafts of the strong-arm’d Bow-men, but like unruly headstrong Stallions, beat them down with their right-hand _Tamahawks_, and left-hand Javelins, being all the Weapons which they use, counting Bowes a cowardly fight. _Tamahawks_ are Staves of two Foot and a half long, with knobs at one end as round and big as a Foot ball; a Javelin is a short Spear, headed with sharp Sea-Horse Teeth; one blow or thrust with these sharp Weapons, will not need a second to hasten death from a _Mowhacks_ arm. [Sidenote: The nature of the _Indians_ inhabiting Eastward.] The _Tarrenteens_ saving that they eat not Mans flesh, are little less Salvage and cruel than these _Cannibals_; our _Indians_ do fear them as their deadly Enemies, for so many of them as they meet, they kill. Take these _Indians_ in their own proper and natural disposition, and they are reported to be wise, lofty-spirited, constant in friendship to one another, true in their promise, and more industrious than many others. [Sidenote: The nature of the _Pequods_ and _Narragansets_.] The _Pequants_ are a stately Warlike People, just and equal in their dealings; not treacherous either to their Country-men, or _English_, to whom (except in time of War) they were not any ways uncivil. Their next Neighbors the _Narragansets_, are the most numerous People in those Parts, the most rich also, and the most industrious; being the Store-house of all such kind of wild Merchandize as is amongst them. These Men are the most curious Minters of their _Wampompeage_ and _Mowhakes_, which they form out of the inmost Wreaths of Periwinkle-shells. The Northern, Eastern, and Western _Indians_ fetch all their Coyn from these Southern Mint-Masters. From hence they have most of their curious Pendants and Bracelets, from hence they have their great Stone Pipes, which will hold a quarter of an Ounce of Tobacco, which they make with Steel Drills and other Instruments; such is their Ingenuity and dexterity, that they can imitate the _English_ Mold so accurately, that were it not for matter and colour, it were hard to distinguish them; they make them of green, and sometimes of black Stone; they are much desir’d of our _English_ Tobacconists, for their rarity, strength, handsomness, and coolness. Hence likewise our _Indians_ had their Pots, wherein they us’d to seeth their Victuals before they knew the use of Brass. Since the _English_ came, they have employ’d most of their time in catching of Beavers, Otters, and _Musquashes_, which they bring down into the Bay, returning back loaden with _English_ Commodities, of which they make double profit, by selling them to more remote _Indians_, who are ignorant at what cheap rates they obtain them, in comparison of what they make them pay, so making their Neighbors ignorance their enrichment: They were never known to be desirous to take in hand any Martial Enterprize, or expose themselves to the uncertain events of War; wherefore the _Pequants_ call them _Women-like Men_, resting secure under the conceit of their popularity, and seeking rather to grow rich by industry, than famous by deeds of Chivalry. [Sidenote: The nature and complexion of the _Aberginians_.] Most of these Northward _Indians_ are between five and six Foot high, straight Body’d, strongly compos’d, smooth Skin’d, merry Countenanc’d, of Complexion more swarthy than the _Spaniards_, black Hair’d, high Foreheaded, black Ey’d, out-Nos’d, broad Shoulder’d, brawny Arm’d, long and slender Handed, out Breasted, small Wasted, lank Belly’d, well Thigh’d, flat Kneed, with handsome grown Legs, and small Feet: In a word, take them when the Blood skips in their Veins, when the Flesh is on their Backs, and Marrow in their Bones, when they frolick in their antique Deportments and _Indian_ Postures, they are more amiable to behold (though onely in _Adam_’s Livery) than many a trim Gallant in the newest Mode; and though their Houses are but mean, their Lodging as homely, Commons scant, their Drink Water, and Nature their best Clothing, yet they still are healthful and lusty. Their smooth Skins proceed from the often anointing of their Bodies with the Oyl of Fishes, and the fat of Eagles, with the grease of _Rackoons_, which they hold in Summer the best Antidote to keep their Skin from blistering with the scorching Sun; it is their best Armor against the _Musketoes_, and the surest abrasour of the hairy Excrement, and stops the Pores of their Bodies against the nipping Winters cold. Their black Hair is natural, yet is brought to a more Jetty colour by Oyling, Dying, and daily dressing; sometimes they wear it very long, hanging down in a loose dishevel’d Womanish manner, otherwise ty’d up hard and short like a Horse Tail, bound close with a Fillet, which they say makes it grow the faster; they are not a little Phantastical in this particular; their Boys being not permitted to wear their Hair long till sixteen years of Age, and then they must come to it by degrees; some being cut with a long foretop, a long lock on the Crown, one of each side of his Head, the rest of his Hair being cut even with the Scalp; the young Men and Soldiers wear their Hair long on the one side, the other being cut short like a Screw; other cuts they have as their Fancy leads them, which would torture the Wits of the most exact Barber to imitate. But though they are thus proud of the Hair of their Head, you cannot wooe them to wear it on their Chins, where it no sooner grows, but it is stubb’d up by the roots, for they count it as an unuseful, cumbersome, and opprobrious excrement, insomuch as they call him an _English_ Mans Bastard that hath but the appearance of a Beard. [Sidenote: The Apparel, Ornaments, Paintings, and other artificial Deckings of the _Indians_.] The Cloathing of the _Indians_ is only a pair of _Indian_ Breeches to cover their secret Parts, which is but a piece of Cloth a yard and a half long, but between their Groins, ty’d with a Snakes Skin about their middles, one end hanging down with a flap before, the other like a tail behind. In the Winter time, the more Aged of them wear Leather Drawers, in form like _Irish_ Trouses, fasten’d under their Girdle with Buttons: They wear Shooes likewise of their own making, cut out of a _Mooses_ Hide; many of them wear Skins about them, in form of an _Irish_ Mantle, and of these some are Bears Skins, _Mooses_ Skins, and Beaver Skins sew’d together, others Otter Skins, and _Rackoon_ Skins; most of them in the Winter having his deep Furr’d Cat Skin, like a large Muff, which he shifts to that Arm which lieth most expos’d to the Wind. Although they are poor, yet is there in them the sparks of natural Pride, which appears in their longing desire after many kind of Ornaments, wearing Pendants in their Ears, in form of Birds, Beasts, and Fishes, Carv’d out of Bone, Shells, and Stone, with long Bracelets of their curious wrought _Wampompeage_ and _Mowhackees_, which they put about their Necks and Loins; these they count a rare kind of Decking; many of the better sort bearing upon their Cheeks certain Pourtraitures of Beasts, as Bears, Deers, _Mooses_, Wolves, _&c._ some of Fowls, as of Eagles, Hawks, _&c._ which is not a superficial Painting, but a certain Incision, or else a raising of their Skin by a small sharp Instrument, under which they convey a certain kind of black unchangeable Ink, which makes the desir’d form apparent and permanent. Others have certain round Impressions down the outside of their Arms and Breasts, in form of Mullets or Spur-rowels, which they imprint by searing Irons: Whether these be Foils to illustrate their unparallel’d Beauty (as they deem it) or Arms to blazon their antique Gentility, cannot easily be determin’d: But a _Segamore_ with a _Humbird_ in his Ear for a Pendant, a black Hawk on his Head for his Plume, _Mowhackees_ for his Gold Chain, good store of _Wampompeage_ begirting his Loins, his Bowe in his Hand, his Quiver at his Back, with six naked _Indian_ Lacquies at his Heels for his Guard, thinks himself little Inferior to the great _Cham_. [Sidenote: Their Diet, Cookery, Meal-times, and Hospitality at their Kettles.] In Winter time they have all manner of Fowls and Beasts of the Land and Water, Pond-fish, with _Cathaires_ and other Roots, _Indian_ Beans and _Clamms_; in the Summer they have all manner of Sea-fish, with all sorts of Berries. For the ordering of their Victuals, they Boil or Roast them, having large Kettles which they Traded for with the _French_ long since, and do still buy of the _English_ as their need requires, before they had substantial Earthen Pots of their own making. Their Spits are no other than cloven Sticks, sharpen’d at one end to thrust into the ground; into these cloven Sticks they thrust the Flesh or Fish they would have Roasted, behemming a round fire with a dozen of Spits at a time, turning them as they see occasion. They seldom or never make Bread of their _Indian_ Corn, but seethe it whole like Beans, eating three or four Corns with a mouthful of Fish or Flesh, sometimes eating Meat first, and Corns after, filling the Chinks with their Broth. In Summer, when their Corn is spent, _Sqoutersquashes_ is their best Bread, a Fruit like a young Pumpion: But as all are fellows at Foot-ball, so they all meet Friends at the Kettle, saving their Wives, that Dance a Spaniel-like attendance at their Backs for their Fragments. If their occasions cause them to Travel, the best of their Victuals for their Journey is _Nocake_, (as they call it) which is nothing but _Indian_ Corn parch’d in the hot Ashes; the Ashes being sifted from it, it is afterwards beaten to Powder, and put into a long Leathern Bag, truss’d at their Back like a Knapsack, out of which they take thrice three Spoonfuls a day, dividing it into three Meals. If it be Winter, and Snow be on the ground, they can eat when they please, making use of Snow for their Drink; in Summer, they must stay till they meet with a Spring or Brook; with this strange _viaticum_ they will travel four or five days together. They keep no Set-Meals, their Store being spent, they champ on the Bit, till they meet with fresh Supplies, either from their own endeavors, or their Wives industry, who trudge to the _Clam-banks_ when all other means fail. Though they are sometimes scanted, yet are they as free as Emperors, both to their Countrey-men and _English_, be he stranger, or near acquaintance; counting it a great discourtesie, not to eat of their high-conceited Delicates. [Sidenote: Of their hardiness.] Their hardiness is much to be admir’d, no ordinary pains making them so much as alter their countenance; beat them, whip them, punch them, if they put on a resolution, they will not winch for it; whether it be their benumm’d insensibleness of smart, or their hardy resolutions, is hard to resolve; It might be a _Perillus_ his Bull, or the Rack might force an out-cry from them, but a _Turkish_ drubbing would not move them, the unexpected approach of a mortal Wound by a Bullet, Arrow, or Sword, striking no more terror, nor causing no more exclamation in them, than if it had been a shot into the body of a Tree; such Wounds as would be sudden death to an _English_ Man, would be nothing to them; whether it be, that by their rare skill in the use of Vegetatives, or by Diabolical Charms, they cure them; nevertheless, the very name and thoughts of death is so hideous to them, or any thing that presents it so terrible, that a hundred of them will run from two or three arm’d with Guns. In the Night they need not to be feared, for they will not budge from their own Dwellings, for fear of their _Abamacho_ (the Devil) whom they much fear, specially in evil enterprizes, they will rather lie by an _English_ fire than go a quarter of a Mile in the dark to their own Dwellings; but they are well freed from this Scare-crow since the coming of the _English_, and less care for his delusions. [Sidenote: Of their Kings, Government, and Subjects obedience.] Now for the matter of Government amongst them; it is the custom of their Kings to inherit, the Son always taking the Kingdom after his Fathers death. If there be no Son, then the Queen rules; if no Queen, the next to the Blood-Royal; who comes in otherwise, is but counted an usurping Intruder, if his fair carriage bear him not out the better, they will soon Unscepter him. Some say the chief _Powahe_ is next in Dignity and Authority to the King, and when he dies, Marries the _Squasachem_, or Queen. The Kings have no Laws to Command by, nor have they any annual Revenues; yet commonly are they so either fear’d or beloved, that half their Subjects estate is at their Service, and their Persons at his Command, by which Command he is better known than by any thing else; for though he hath no Kingly Robes to make him glorious in the view of his Subjects, nor daily Guards to succor his Person, nor Court-like attendance, nor sumptuous Palaces; yet do they yield all submissive subjection to him, accounting him their Soveraign; going at his Command, and coming at his Beck, not so much as expostulating the cause, though it be in matters thwarting their wills; he being accounted a disloyal Subject that will not effect what his Prince Commands. Whosoever is known to Plot Treason, or to lay violent hands on his lawful King, is presently Executed. Once a Year he takes his Progress, accompanied with a dozen of his best Subjects, to view his Countrey, to recreate himself, and establish good Orders. When he enters into any of their Houses, without any more Complement, he is desir’d to sit down on the Ground, (for they use neither Stools nor Cushions) and after a little respite all that are present come in, and sit down by him, one of his Seniors pronouncing an Oration gratulatory to his Majesty for love, and the many good things they enjoy under his peaceful Government. A King of large Dominions hath his Vice-Roys, or inferior Kings under him, to agitate his State Affairs, and keep his Subjects in good Decorum. Other Officers there are, but how to distinguish them by Name is something difficult. For their Laws, as their Vices come short of many other Nations, so they have not so many Laws, though they are not without some, which they inflict upon notorious Malefactors, as Traitors to their Prince, inhumane Murtherers, and, some say, Adulterers: for Theft, as they have nothing to steal worth the Life of a Man, therefore they have no Law to Execute for Trivials, a Subject being more precious in the Eye of his Prince, than, where Men are so scarce, to be cast away upon so sleight a matter. A Malefactor having deserv’d Death, and being apprehended, is brought before the King, and some other of the wisest Men, where they enquire out the original of the thing, after proceeding by aggravation of Circumstances he is found Guilty, and Cast by the Jury of their strict Inquisition, he is Condemn’d and Executed in the following manner: The Executioner comes in, who blind-folds the Party, sets him in the publick view, and Brains him with a _Tamahauke_, or Club; which done, his Friends bury him. [Sidenote: Of their Marriages.] Now to speak something of their Marriages, the Kings and the _Powwows_, or great Doctors, may have two or three Wives, but seldom use it, Men of ordinary Rank having but one; which disproves the report, that they had eight or ten Wives apiece. When a Man hath a desire to Marry, he first gets the good will of the Maid or Widow, after, the consent of her Friends for her part; and for himself, if he be at his own disposing, and if the King will, the Match is made, her Dowry of _Wampompeage_ paid, the _Sagamore_ or King (who for every Marriage hath a Fathom of _Wampompeage_, which is about the value of seven or eight shillings) joyns their Hands, never to part till Death, unless she prove a Whore, for which they may put away their Wives. [Sidenote: Of their Worship, Invocations, and Conjurations.] As it is natural to all Mortals to worship something, so do these People, but exactly to describe to whom their Worship is chiefly bent, is very difficult: They acknowledge especially two, _Ketan_, some say _Tantum_, their good God, and _Hobamocco_, some say _Squantum_, their evil God; to _Ketan_ they Sacrifice (as the ancient _Heathens_ did to _Ceres_) after their Garners be full with a good Crop. They likewise Invocate this God for fair Weather, for Rain in time of Drought, and for the recovery of their Sick; but if they do not hear them, then they verrifie the old Verse, _Flectere si nequeo Superos Acheronta movebo_, their _Powwows_ betaking themselves to their Exorcismes and Necromantick Charms, by which they bring to pass strange things, if we may believe the _Indians_, who report of one _Pissacannaw_, that he could make the Water burn, the Rocks move, the Trees dance, and metamorphose himself into a flaming Man. In Winter, when there is no green Leaves to be got, he would out of the Ashes of an old Leaf, calcin’d and put into the Water, produce a new green Leaf: And of a dead Snakes Skin, a living Snake, both to be seen, felt and heard. The manner of their action in their Conjuration is thus: The Parties that are sick or lame being brought before them, the _Powwow_ sitting down, the rest of the Indians giving attentive audience to his Imprecations and Invocations, and after the violent expression of many a hideous bellowing and groaning he makes a stop, and then all the Auditors with one voice utter a short _Canto_; which done, the _Powwow_ still proceeds in his Invocations, sometimes roaring like a Bear, other times groaning like a dying Horse, foaming at the Mouth like a chased Boar, smiting on his naked Brest and Thighs with such violence, as if he were mad: Thus will he continue sometimes half a day, spending his Lungs, sweating out his Fat, and tormenting his Body in this diabolical Worship. Sometimes the Devil, for requital of their Worship, recovers the Party, to nuzzle them up in their devillish Religion. But since the _English_ (upon whom, and in whose presence it is said the _Powwows_ could never work their Witchcrafts) frequented those Parts, they daily fall from his Colours, relinquishing their former Fopperies, and acknowledge the Power of the _English_-man’s God, as they call him. And it is reported of them, that at the very first they were so tractable to the _Christian_ Religion, that they would say King _James_ was good, and his God good, but their _Tanto_ nought, though of their two Gods he was accounted the good one. [Sidenote: Of their Wars.] They use no other Weapons in War than Bowes and Arrows, saving that their Captains have long Spears, on which, if they return Conquerors, they carry the Heads of their chief Enemies that they slay in the Wars, it being the Custom to cut off their Heads, Hands and Feet, to bear home to their Wives and Children, as true tokens of their renowned Victory. When they go to their Wars, it is their Custom to paint their Faces with diversity of Colours, some being all black as Jet, some red, some half red and half black, some black and white, others spotted with divers kinds of Colours, being all disguis’d to their Enemies, to make them more terrible to their Foes, putting on likewise their rich Jewels, Pendents, and _Wampompeage_, to put them in mind that they Fight not onely for their Children, Wives and Lives, but likewise for their Goods, Lands and Liberties. Being thus Arm’d with this Warlike Paint, the antique Warriors make towards their Enemies in a disorder’d manner, without any Soldier-like Marching, or Warlike Postures, being deaf to any word of Command, ignorant of falling off or on, of doubling Ranks or Files, but let flie their winged Shaftsmen without either fear or wit: Their Artillery being spent, he that hath no Arms to Fight, finds Legs to run away. [Sidenote: Their Games and Sports of Activity.] They have two sorts of Games, one call’d _Puim_, the other _Hubbub_, not much unlike Cards and Dice, being no other than Lottery. _Puim_ is fifty or sixty small Bents of a Foot long, which they divide to the number of their Gamesters, shuffling them first between the Palms of their Hands; he that hath more than his Fellow, is so much the forwarder in his Game: Many other Whimsies be in this Game, which would be too long to commit to Paper. He that is a noted Gamester hath a Hole in his Ear, wherein he carries his _Puims_ in defiance of his Antagonists. _Hubbub_ is five small Bones in a small smooth Tray; the Bones be like a Die, but something flatter, black on the one side and white on the other, which they place on the Ground, against which violently thumping the Platter, the Bones mount, changing colours with the windy whisking of their Hands to and fro; which action in that sport they much use, smiting themselves on the Breast and Thighs, crying out _Hub, Hub, Hub_; they may be heard play at this Game a quarter of a Mile off: The Bones being all black or white make a double Game; if three of one colour, and two of another, then they afford but a single Game; four of a colour, and one differing, is nothing; so long as the Man wins he keeps the Tray, but if he loose the next Man takes it. They are so bewitch’d with these two Games, that they will lose sometimes all they have; Beaver, _Moose_-skins, Kettles, _Wampompeage_, _Mowhacks_, Hatchets, Knives, all is confiscate by these two Games. For their Sports of action they have commonly but three or four, as Football, Shooting, Running, and Swimming; when they play Countrey against Countrey, there are rich Goals, all behung with _Wampompeage_, _Mowhacks_, Beaver Skins, and black Otter Skins: Their Goals are a Mile long plac’d on the Sands, which are as even as a Board; their Ball is no bigger than a Hand-ball, which sometimes they mount in the Air with their naked Feet, sometimes it is sway’d by the multitude, sometime also it is two days before they get a Goal, then they mark the Ground they win, and begin there the next day. Before they come to this Sport they paint themselves, even as when they go to War, in policy to prevent future mischief, because no man should know him that mov’d his patience, or accidentally hurt his Person, taking away the occasion of studying revenge. Before they begin, their Arms are put off, and hung upon some neighboring Tree, after which they make a long scrowl on the Sand, over which they shake Hands, and with loving Hearts scuffle for Victory. While the Men Play, the Boys Pipe, and the Women Dance and Sing Trophies of their Husbands Conquests; all being done, a Feast summons their departure. Such is their dexterity in Shooting, that they can hit a running Hind, or flying Pigeon, without a standing pause or left-ey’d blinking; they draw their Arrows between their Fingers and the Thumb, their Bowes are quick, but not very strong, not killing at above six or seven score distance: Shooting at one another, they have a trick with swift conveyance to shun the Arrow; this they do to make them expert against time of War. They are train’d up to their Bowes even from their Childhood; for little Boys with Bowes made of little Sticks, and Arrows made of great Bents; will hit down a piece of Tobacco-pipe every time a good way off. As these _Indians_ are good Marks-men, so are they well experienc’d where the very Life of every Creature lieth, and know where to smite him to make him die presently. Their Swimming is not after our _English_ fashion, of spread Arms and Legs, which they hold too tiresom, but like Dogs, their Arms before them, cutting through the Liquids with their right Shoulder: In this manner they will Swim very swift and far, either in rough or smooth Waters, sometimes for their ease lying as still as a Log; sometimes they will play the Dive-doppers, and come up in unexpected places. [Sidenote: Of their Huntings.] For their Hunting, it is to be noted, that they have no swift-footed Greyhounds to let slip at the sight of the Deer, no deep-mouth’d Hounds, or scenting Beagles, to find out their desired Prey; themselves are all this, who in that time of the year when the Deer comes down, having certain Hunting-houses in such places where they know the Deer doth usually frequent, in which they keep their Rendezvouz, their Snares, and all their Accoutrements for that Employment: when they get sight of a Deer, _Moose_, or Bear, they study how to get the Wind of him, and approaching within shot, stab their Mark quite through, if the Bones hinder not. The chief thing they Hunt after is Deer, _Mooses_ and Bears: It grieves them more to see an _English_-man take one Deer, than a thousand Acres of Land. They Hunt likewise after Wolves, wild Cats, _Rackoons_, Otters, Beavers, and _Musquashes_, Trading both their Skins and Flesh to the _English_. Beside this Artillery they have other devices to kill their Game, as sometimes Hedges, a Mile or two Miles long, being a Mile wide at one end, and made narrower and narrower by degrees, leaving onely a Gap of six Foot long; over against which in the day-time they lie lurking, to shoot the Deer which come through that narrow passage; so many as come within the circumference of that Hedge, seldom return back to leap over, unless they be forc’d by the chasing of some ravenous Wolf, or sight of some accidental Passenger: In the Night, at the Gap of this Hedge, they set Deer-traps, which are Springes made of young Trees, and smooth wrought Cords, so strong, that it will toss a Horse if he be caught in it. [Sidenote: Of their Fishings.] In the Trade of Fishing they are very expert, being experienc’d in the knowledge of all Baits for several Fishes, and divers Seasons; being not ignorant likewise of the removal of Fishes, knowing when to Fish in Rivers, and when at Rocks, when in Bays, and when at Seas: Since the _English_ came they are furnish’d with _English_ Hooks and Lines, for before they made them of Hemp, being more curiously wrought, of stronger Materials than ours, and hook’d with Bone-Hooks; but laziness drives them to buy, more than profit or commendations wins them to make of their own. They make likewise very strong Sturgeon-nets, with which they catch Sturgeons of twelve, fourteen, and sixteen, and some eighteen Foot long in the day-time, and in the night-time they betake themselves to their Birchen _Canoos_, in which they carry a forty-fathom Line, with a sharp-bearded Dart fastned at the end thereof; then lighting a Torch made of Birchen Rinds, they wave it to and again by their _Canoo_ side, which the Sturgeon much delighted with, comes to them tumbling and playing, turning up his white Belly, into which they thrust their Lance, his Back being impenetrable; which done, they hale to the Shore their strugling Prize. They have often recourse into the Rocks whereupon the Sea beats, in warm Weather, to look out for sleepy Seals, whose Oyl they much esteem, using it for divers things. In Summer they Fish any where, but in Winter in the fresh Water onely, and Ponds; in frosty Weather they cut round Holes in the Ice, about which they will sit like so many Apes with their naked Breeches upon the cold Ice, catching of Pikes, Pearches, Breams, and other sorts of fresh-Water Fish. [Sidenote: Of their Arts and Manufactures.] Their Arts and Manufactures are divers, as first their dressing of all manner of Skins, which they do by scraping and rubbing, afterwards painting them with antique Embroiderings in unchangeable Colours; sometimes they take off the Hair, especially if it be not kill’d in season. Their Bowes they make of a handsom shape, strung commonly with the Sinews of _Mooses_; their Arrows of young Elder, feather’d with Feathers of Eagles Wings and Tails, headed with Brass in shape of a Heart or Triangle, fastned in a slender piece of Wood six or eight Inches long, which is fram’d to put loose in the pithy Elder, afterwards bound fast for riving: Their Arrows are made in this manner, because it might shake from his Head, and be left behind for their finding, and the Pile onely remain to gaul the wounded Beast. Their Cordage is so even, soft, and smooth, that it looks more like Silk than Hemp. Their Sturgeon Nets are not deep, nor above thirty or forty Foot long, which in ebbing low Waters they stake fast to the Ground where they are sure the Sturgeon will come, never looking more at it till the next low Water. Their _Canoos_ are made either of Pine-trees, which before they were acquainted with _English_ Tools, they burn’d hollow, scraping them smooth with Clam-shells and Oyster-shells, cutting their out-sides with Stone Hatchets. These Boats are not above a Foot and a half, or two Foot wide, and twenty Foot long. Their other _Canoos_ be made of thin Birch Rinds, close Ribb’d, and on the in-side with broad thin Hoops, like the Hoops of a Tub; these are made very light, a Man may carry one of them a Mile, being made purposely to carry from River to River, and from Bay to Bay, to shorten Land-passages. In these cockling Fly-boats, wherein an _English_-man can scarce sit without a fearful tottering, they will venture to Sea, when an _English_ Shallop dare not bear a Knot of Sail, scudding over the over-grown Waves as fast as a wind-driven Ship, being driven by their Paddles, being much like Battle-doors; if a cross Wave (which is seldom) turn her Keel up-side down, they by swimming free her, and scramble into her again. [Sidenote: Of their Language.] Their Language, is onely peculiar to themselves, not inclining to any of the more refined Tongues. Some have thought they might be of the dispersed _Jews_, because some of their words are near unto the _Hebrew_; but by the same rule they may conclude them to be some of the gleanings of all Nations, because they have words which sound after the _Greek_, _Latine_, _French_, and other Tongues. Their Language is hard to learn, few of the _English_ being able to speak any of it, or capable of the right pronunciation, which is the chief grace of their Tongue: They pronounce much after the Diphthongs, excluding _L_ and _R_ which in our _English_ Tongue they pronounce with as much difficulty, as most of the _Dutch_ do _T_ and _H_, calling a Lobster a _Nobstann_. Every Countrey doth something differ in their Speech, even as our Northern People do from the Southern, and Western from them; especially the _Tarrentine_, whose Tongue runs so much upon _R_ that they wharle much in pronunciation. When any Ships come near the Shore, they demand whether they are King _Charles’s Torries_, with such a rumbling sound, as if one were beating on an unbrac’d Drum. In serious Discourse our Southern _Indians_ use seldom any short Colloquies, but speak their minds at large, without any interjected Discourses from any, the rest giving diligent audience to his utterance; which done, some or other returns him as long an Answer: They love not to speak _multa, sed multum_; seldom are their words and their deeds strangers. According to the matter of their discourse, so are their acting Gestures in their Expressions. [Sidenote: Of their Deaths, Burials and Mourning.] The _Indians_ are of lusty and healthful Bodies, not experimentally knowing those Diseases which are incident to other Countreys, as Feavers, Pleurisies, Calentures, Agues, Consumptions, Convulsions, Apoplexies, Dropsies, Gouts, Pox, Measles, or the like, but spin out the thred of their Days to a fair length, numbering sixty, eighty, some a hundred years: But when any one lies a dying, the doleful cries, and throbbing sighs of the Friends and Relations, express unspeakable sorrow; and when the Party is dead and laid in the Ground, they not onely weep and howl for a good space over the Grave, but also keep Annual Solemnities of Mourning, rubbing their Faces with black Lead all about the Eye-brows, and part of their Cheeks; yet do they hold the Immortality of the Soul, in which their _Indian_ Faith jumps much with the _Turkish Alchoran_, dreaming of a certain Paradise, or South-West _Elysium_, wherein they shall everlastingly abide, solacing themselves in odoriferous Gardens, fruitful Corn-fields, green Meadows, bathing their tawny Hides in the cool Streams of pleasant Rivers, and sheltering themselves from Heat and Cold in the sumptuous Palaces fram’d by Nature, concluding, that neither care nor pain shall molest them, but that Natures bounty will administer all things with a voluntary contribution from the Store-house of their _Elysium_; at the Portal whereof, they say, lies a great Dog, whose churlish snarlings deny admission to unworthy Intruders: wherefore it is their custom to bury with them their Bowes and Arrows, and good store of their _Wampompeage_ and _Mowhacks_, the one to affright that affronting _Cerberus_, the other to purchase more immense Prerogatives in their Paradise. For their Enemies and loose Livers, whom they account unworthy of this imaginary Happiness, they say that they pass to the infernal Dwellings of _Abamocho_, to be tortur’d according to the Fictions of the ancient _Heathen_. [Sidenote: Dispositions, Employments, Usage by their Husbands, Apparel, and Modesty of the Women.] The drudgery of all laborious sorts of Work, and the management of all domestick Affairs, lies wholly upon the _Indian_ Women, who are made meer Slaves by their Husbands; they build the Houses, sowe and reap the Corn, provide Lobsters for their Husbands to bait their Hooks when they go a Fishing for _Basse_ or Cod; and for these Lobsters they are many times forc’d to dive in the extreamest Weather, then lug home a great weight of them upon their Backs, as also all the Fish which their Husbands catch for pleasure, from the places where they were caught: They dress all the Meat, serve it up to their Husbands, and waiting till they have fill’d their Bellies, are glad of their leavings. In Summer they gather Flags, of which they make Mats for Houses, and Hemp and Rushes, with Dying Stuff, of which they make curious Baskets, with intermixed Colours and Pourtraictures of antique Imagery. These Baskets are of all sizes from a Quart to a Quarter, in which they carry their Luggage. In Winter they are their Husbands Caterers, trudging to the Clam-banks for their Belly-timber, and their Porters to lug it home. They likewise sew their Husbands Shoes, and weave Coats of _Turky_ Feathers, besides all their ordinary Houshold drudgery which daily lies upon them, insomuch that a great Belly hinders no business, nor doth a Child-birth take much time, but the young Infant being greas’d and footed, wrapp’d in a Beavers Skin, bound with his Feet up to his Bum, upon a Board two Foot long and one Foot broad, and his Face expos’d to all nipping Weather, this little _Pappouse_ travels about with his bare-footed Mother to paddle in the Icy Clam-banks, after three or four days of Age have confirm’d her recovery. For their Carriage, it is very civil, Smiles being the greatest grace of their Mirth. Their Musick is Lullabies in Rocking their Children, who generally are as quiet as if they had neither Spleen or Lungs. Their Voices are generally both sweet and well order’d, so far as pure Nature teacheth them. Their Modesty drives them to wear more Clothes than the Men, having always a Coat of Cloth or Skins, wrapp’d like a Blanket about their Loyns, reaching down to their Hams, which they never put off in Company. [Sidenote: Towns built by the _English_ in _New England_.] There are to be reckon’d up forty five chief Towns, besides what others there may be of less note, built or made habitable by the _English_ since their first arrival in _New England_, till about the Year 1650. [Sidenote: _St. Georges Fort._] First, _St. Georges Fort_, where the first Plantation was setled, at the Mouth of the River _Sagadebock_, in a kind of _Peninsula_, or half Island. [Sidenote: _New Plymouth._] The second, _New Plymouth_, seated no less commodiously upon a large Bay, call’d by the Natives _Pautuxed_; where they first setled that went over out of dissatisfaction to the Church-Government of _England_. [Sidenote: _Salem._] The third, _Salem_, call’d by the _Indians_, _Mahumbeak_; which stands on the middle of a Neck of Land very pleasantly, having a South River on the one side, and a North River on the other side. This Town seems to have been built in the Year 1628. by a part of that Company, who, being sent over by the _Merchant-Adventurers_, setled themselves in this Cape. [Sidenote: _Charles-town._] The fourth _Mashawmut_, or _Charles-town_, situate on a Neck of Land on the Northside of the River _Charles_. The form of this Town, in the Frontispiece of it, resembleth the Head, Neck, and Shoulders of a Man; through the right Shoulder whereof runs the Navigable River _Mistick_, which by its near approach to _Charles_ River in one place, makes the chief part of the Town a _Peninsula_: It consists of a hundred and fifty Dwelling-houses, many of them beautifi’d with pleasant Gardens and Orchards: Near the Water-side is a large Market-place, forth of which issue two fair Streets; and in it stands a large and well built Church. [Sidenote: _Dorchester._] The fifth, _Matapan_, or _Dorchester_, a Fronteer Town, standing over against the Island near the Sea-side: It is water’d with two small Rivers, and is built in the form of a Serpent turning its Head Northward; it hath Orchards and Gardens full of Fruit-trees. [Sidenote: _Boston._] The sixth is _Boston_, anciently _Accomonticus_, the Center and Metropolis of the rest, built in the form of a Heart, and fortifi’d with two Hills on the Front-part thereof, the one having great store of Artillery mounted thereon, the other having a strong Battery, built of whole Timber, and fill’d with Earth: At the Descent of the Hill lies a large Cave or Bay, on which the chief part of this Town is built, over-topp’d with a third Hill, all three like over-topping Towers, keeping a constant Watch to foresee the approach of foreign Dangers. The chiefest part of this City-like Town is crowded upon the Sea Banks, and wharf’d out with great Industry and Cost, the Edifices large and beautiful, whose continual enlargement presageth some sumptuous City. [Sidenote: _Roxbury._] The seventh, _Roxbury_, situated between _Boston_ and _Dorchester_, water’d with cool and pleasant Springs issuing from the Rocky Hills, and with small Freshets watering the Valleys of this fertile Town: The form of it resembleth a Wedge double pointed, entring between the two above-mention’d Towns; and in the room of those Swamps, or tearing Bushes which were there before, they have now goodly Fruit-trees, fruitful Fields and Gardens. [Sidenote: _Lynne._] The eighth is _Lynne_, or (according to the _Indian_ Name, _Saugus_) situated between _Salem_ and _Charles-town_, near a River, whose strong Freshet at the end of Winter fills all her Banks, and with a violent Torrent vents it self into the Sea. This Town is almost square, consisting many years ago of above a hundred Dwelling-houses, having also an Iron Mill in constant use. The Church being on a level Land, undefended from the North-West Wind, is made with Steps descending into the Earth. [Sidenote: _Water-town._] The ninth is call’d _Water-town_, anciently _Pigsgusset_, situated upon one of the Branches of _Charles_-River, water’d with many pleasant Springs and small Rivulets, running like Veins throughout her Body. This Town began by occasion of Sir _Richard Saltingstall_, who arriving with store of Cattel and Servants, Winter’d in these Parts. [Sidenote: _New-town._] [Sidenote: _Harverd Colledge._] In the Year 1633. there was erected between _Charles-town_ and _Water-town_, a Place call’d _New-town_, and by the _Indians_, _Amongcangen_, since nam’d _Cambridge_, being the tenth in order: It is in form like a List of Broad-cloth, reaching to the most Southerly part of _Merrimeck_ River; it hath comely and well order’d Streets, and two fair Colledges; the first call’d _Harverd Colledge_, from Mr. _John Harverd_, who at his Death gave a thousand Pounds to it; to the other Mr. _John Harnes_ was the chief Benefactor. This Town was appointed to be the Seat of the Government, but it continu’d not long. [Sidenote: _Ipswich._] The eleventh call’d _Ipswich_, or _Sawacatuc_ by the _Indians_, is situated on a fair and delightful River, issuing forth from a very pleasant Pond, and afterwards breaking its Course through a hideous Swamp of large extent; it lies in the _Sagamoreship_, or Earldom of _Aggawan_, now by the _English_ call’d _Essex_. [Sidenote: _Newbury._] Twelve Miles from _Ipswich_, near upon the Streams of _Merrimeck_ River, is situated the twelfth, call’d _Newbury_. [Sidenote: _Hartford._] The People of _New-town_, or _Cambridge_, upon their removal of the Plantation of _Canectico_, passing up the River, built a Town, which they call’d _Hartford_, the thirteenth in number, divers others coming in the room of those that departed from _Cambridge_. [Sidenote: _Concord._] The fourteenth, seated upon a fair fresh River (whose Rivulets are fill’d with fresh Marsh, and her Streams with Fish, it being a Branch of that large River of _Merrimeck Allwives_) is built in the Inland Countrey, and call’d _Concord_: It consisted at first of above fifty Families: Their Buildings are for the most part conveniently plac’d on one streight Stream under a Sunny Bank, in a low Level. The People that first set forth to build this Town, sustain’d great hardship and misery, by reason of the uncouth Ways, and extremity of the Weather, it being the first Inland Town that was built. [Sidenote: _Hingham._] South-East of _Charles_-River, upon the Sea-Coast, is situated the fifteenth Town _Hingham_; the form whereof is somewhat intricate to describe, by reason of the Seawasting Crooks, where it beats upon a moultring Shore; yet in some places the Streets are compleat: It consisted at first of about sixty Families. [Sidenote: _Dukesbury_, or _Sandwich_.] The sixteenth is in _Plymouth_ Government, situate upon the Sea-Coast, first nam’d _Dukes-bury_, afterwards _Sandwich_. [Sidenote: _Newhaven._] About the year 1617. a new Supply coming over into these Parts, and not finding in the _Mattachusets_ Government any commodious place to settle in, they after much search took up a place somewhat more Southerly, near the _Shalles_ of _Capecod_, where they found a commodious Harbor for Shipping, and a fit place to erect a Town in, which they built in a short time, with very fair Houses and compleat Streets; and shortly after several others: Amongst which they erected a new Government, which from their first Fronteer Town, being the seventeenth, was call’d _Newhaven_. [Sidenote: _Dedham._] The eighteenth is in the Government of the _Mattachusets_, and call’d _Dedham_, being an Inland Town, situate about ten Miles from _Boston_ in the County of _Suffolk_, well water’d with many pleasant Streams, and abounding with Gardens and Fruit-Trees: It consisted at first of about a hundred Families, being generally given to Husbandry. [Sidenote: _Weymouth._] The nineteenth being also in this Government is call’d _Weymouth_, batter’d on the East with the Sea Waves; on the South-West Rocks and Swamps make it delightful to the Deer, as the ploughable Meadow-Lands to the Inhabitants. About the Year 1638. _Printing_ was brought over into _New England_. [Sidenote: _Rowly._] About six Miles from _Ipswich_, North-Eastward, was erected another Town call’d _Rowly_, being the twentieth. [Sidenote: _Hampton._] About the Year 1639. began the one and twentieth Town _Hampton_, in the County of _Norfolk_, to be built: It is situate near the Sea-Coast, not far from the River of _Merrimeck_: The great store of salt Marsh did entice the People to set down their Habitations there. [Sidenote: _Salisbury._] Not far from this Town of _Hampton_, was erected the two and twentieth, call’d _Salisbury_, seated upon the broad swift Torrent of _Merrimeck_-River: It lieth on the Northern side, over against the Town of _Newbury_, the River between them being about half a Mile broad, but hath an Island in the midst thereof, which makes it the more easily passable. The situation of this Town is very pleasant, the Skirts thereof abounding in fair and goodly Meadows, with good store of stately Timber in many places upon the Uplands. [Sidenote: _Long-Island, Southampton._] About the Year 1640. by a fresh Supply of People that setled in _Long-Island_, was there erected the twenty third Town, call’d _Southampton_; by the Indians, _Agawom_. [Sidenote: _Sudbury._] The same Year also the Town of _Sudbury_, being the twenty fourth, began to be built in the Inland Countrey: It is furnish’d with great store of fresh Marsh, but lying very low, it is much endammag’d with Land-floods. [Sidenote: _Braintree._] About this time there was built at Mount _Wollestone_, by some old Planters and certain Farmers of the great Town of _Boston_, a Town nam’d _Braintree_, being the twenty fifth, within the _Mattachusets_ Government: It is well peopled, and hath great store of Land in Tillage. [Sidenote: _Gloucester._] In the Year 1641. Mr. _Richard Blindman_ coming from _Green Harbour_, a Place in _Plymouth_ Patent, with some few People of his acquaintance, setled in _Cape Anne_, where they built the twenty sixth Town, and nam’d it _Gloucester_. [Sidenote: _Dover._] There is also situate upon _Puscataque_ River, to the North-East of _Boston_, a Town call’d _Dover_, being the twenty seventh, the People by voluntary resignation being under the _Mattachusets_ Government. [Sidenote: _Wooburn._] In the Year 1642. was erected the eight and twentieth Town, call’d _Wooburn_. [Sidenote: _Reading._] In the Year 1644. _Reading_ the nine and twentieth Town was built, being in the Government of the _Mattachusets_; it is well water’d and situated about a great Pond, having two Mills, a Saw-Mill, and a Corn-Mill, which stand upon two several Streams. [Sidenote: _Wenham._] A little after was built the thirtieth Town in this Colony, call’d _Wenham_, situate between _Salem_ and _Ipswich_; it is very well water’d, as most Inland Towns are, and the People live altogether on Husbandry. [Sidenote: _Spring-field._] About the Year 1645. one Mr. _Pinchin_, having out of desire to improve his Estate by Trading with the _Indians_, setled himself in a place very remote from any of the Towns of the _Mattachusets_ Colony, yet under their Government, and great store of People still resorting to him, they at last erected a Town upon the River _Canectico_, calling it _Spring-field_, being the one and thirtieth Town; it is very fitly seated for a Beaver Trade with the _Indians_, in regard it is situate upon this large Navigable River, and upon some Rivulets of the same. [Sidenote: _Haverhill._] In the Year 1648. was founded the Town of _Haverhill_, being the two and thirtieth, about a Mile or two from the place where the River of _Merrimeck_ receives into it self the River _Shawshin_, which is one of her three chief Heads. [Sidenote: _Malden._] Not long after, the Town of _Malden_, being the three and thirtieth Town, was built by certain People that came out of _Charles-Town_; these two Towns being sever’d the one from the other by the large River of _Mistick_. The rest we shall onely name, as 34. _Berwick_, alias _Chawun_. 35 _Oxford_, alias _Sagoquas_. _Falmouth_, alias _Totam_. 36. _Bristol._ 37. _Hull_, alias _Passataquack_. 38. _Dartmouth_, alias _Bohanna_. 39. _Norwich_, alias _Segocket_. 40. _Taunton_, alias _Cohannet_. 41. _Greens-Harbour._ 42. _Yarmouth._ 43. _Northam_, alias _Pascataqua_. 44. _Exeter._ 45. _Weymouth._ The chief Rivers of _New England_ are, _Pascataway_, _Sagadahoc_, _Pemmaquid_, _Agamentico_, _Merrimeck_, _Tachobacco_, _Mistick_, _Narraganset_, _Mishuwin_, _Connectacut_, _Newichwavoch_, _Kynebequy_. [Sidenote: The present state of the Natives.] The _Indian_ Natives are now become so weak in number, and in some measure reduc’d to a dread of the growth of the _English_, that of late years they have not practis’d any thing against them, or at least, not justifi’d them by numbers in open Hostility, willing rather to purchase their Peace and buy off Injuries committed by them at the Price of their Lands and Possessions. And although care and expence hath been many years apply’d to the Conversion of _Indians_ to the Faith, however inclinable they seem’d at first to the imbracing thereof, not then so well discerning the insincerity of its Professors; yet there are so few of late who do imbrace it or persevere in it (wanting a good Foundation for instruction in Moral Honesty, and perhaps the example of it in those that undertake to instruct them in Religion;) that _Christianity_ to them seems a _Chimera_, Religion a design to draw them from the libidinous Pleasures of a lazy Life; however, some there are who make Profession of _Christianity_, and some who are educated in the Schools of _New Cambridge_, to entitle them to Preach the Gospel in their own Language. One great hindrance to the Propagation of the Faith amongst those _Heathens_, is the diversity of their Languages; for it is commonly known, that the Natives themselves do not understand one another, if their Habitations are but at forty Miles distance. [Sidenote: Church-Government among the _English_.] Their Church-Government and Discipline is Congregational and Independent, yet in some places more rigid than others, for in many Towns there yet remains some leaven of _Presbytery_, from which Sects our _Independency_ had its Original; insomuch, that one of the most remarkable Opposers of _Episcopal Government_, Doctor _Bastwick_ (who, spoil’d so much Paper in railing at the Church Government of _England_, and crying up _Liberty of Conscience_) finding the Apostacy of his own Brethren of _Boston_ from their first Principles, and his, generally prevail over them, even to the denying that liberty to others, which they seem’d only to aim at, did write a large and vehement _Dehortatory Epistle_ to them from their _New Lights_ or _Paths_, saying, _That according to their present Tenents, they could not pretend to be, or other than a Christian Synagogue_. [Sidenote: Their Civil Government and Laws.] Their Laws and Methods of Government are wholly of their own framing, each Colony for themselves, makes an Annual choice of Governor, Deputy Governor, and a certain number of Assistants, by the plurality of Suffrages collected from their several Towns, the Electors are only Free-men and Church-Members; for he that is not a Member of their Church, can neither chuse, nor be chosen a Magistrate, nor have his Children Baptiz’d; besides the loss of many other Priviledges, and liable moreover to frequent, if not constant Mulcts for absenting themselves from _Divine Worship_ (so call’d) in their Meeting-houses. Since the transmitting of the Patent in _New England_, the Election is not by Voices, nor erection of Hands as formerly, but by Papers, thus: The general Court-electory sitting, where are present in the Church, or Meeting-house at _Boston_, the old Governor, Deputy, and all the Magistrates, and two Deputies or Burgesses for every Town, or at least one; all the Freemen are bid to come in at one Door, and bring their Votes in Paper for the new Governor, and deliver them down upon the Table, before the Court, and so pass forth at another Door; those that are absent, send their Votes by Proxies. All being deliver’d in, the Votes are counted, and according to the major part, the old Governor pronounceth, _That such an one is chosen Governor for the year ensuing_. Then the Freemen, in like manner, bring their Votes for the Deputy Governor, who being also chosen, the Governor propoundeth the Assistants one after another. New Assistants are, of late, put in nomination, by an Order of general Court, beforehand to be consider’d of: If a Freeman give in a Blank, that rejects the Man nam’d; if the Freeman makes any mark with a Pen upon the Paper which he brings, that elects the Man nam’d: Then the Blanks and mark’d Papers are number’d, and according to the major part of either, the Man in Nomination stands elected or rejected; and so for all the Assistants. And after every new Election, which is, by their Patent, to be upon the last Wednesday in _Easter_ Term, the new Governor and Officers are all new Sworn. The Governor and Assistants chuse the Secretary. And all the Court consisting of Governor, Deputy, Assistants, and Deputies of Towns, give their Votes as well as the rest; and the Ministers and Elders, and all Church-Officers, have their Votes also in all these Elections of chief Magistrates: Constables, and all other inferior Officers, are sworn in the general, quarter, or other Courts, or before any Assistant. Every Free-man when he is admitted, takes a strict Oath, to be true to the Society or Jurisdiction. There are two general Courts, one every half year, wherein they make Laws or Ordinances: The Ministers advise in making of Laws, especially Ecclesiastical, and are present in Courts, and advise in some special Causes Criminal, and in framing of Fundamental Laws. There are besides four Quarter-Courts for the whole Jurisdiction, besides other petty Courts, one every quarter at _Boston_, _Salem_, and _Ipswich_, with their several Jurisdictions; besides every Town, almost, hath a petty Court for small Debts and Trespasses, under twenty Shillings. [Sidenote: Actions and Causes.] In the general Court, or great quarter Courts, before the Civil Magistrates, are try’d all Actions and Causes Civil and Criminal, and also Ecclesiastical, especially touching Non-members: And they themselves say, that in the general and quarter Courts, they have the Power of Parliament, Kings-Bench, Common-Pleas, Chancery, High-Commission, and Star-Chamber, and all other Courts of _England_, and in divers Cases have exercis’d that Power upon the Kings Subjects there, as is not difficult to prove. They have put to death, banish’d, fin’d Men, cut off Mens Ears, whip’d, imprison’d Men, and all these for Ecclesiastical and Civil Offences, and without sufficient Record. In the lesser quarter Courts are try’d, in some, Actions under ten Pounds, in _Boston_, under twenty, and all Criminal Causes not touching Life or Member. From the petty quarter Courts, or other Courts, the parties may appeal to the great quarter Courts, from thence to the general Court, from which there is no Repeal. [Sidenote: Grand-Juries.] Twice a year, in the said quarter Courts held before the general Courts, are two Grand-Juries sworn for the Jurisdiction, one for one Court, and the other for the other; and they are charg’d to enquire and Present Offences reduc’d by the Governor who gives the Charge. [Sidenote: Trials.] Matters of Debt, Trespass, and upon the Case, and Equity, yea and of Heresie also, are try’d by a Jury. The Parties are warn’d to challenge any Jury-man before he be sworn; but because there is but one Jury in a Court for trial of Causes; and all Parties not present at their Swearing, the liberty of challenge is much hinder’d, and some inconveniences do happen thereby. Jurors are return’d by the Marshal, he was at first call’d _The Beadle of the Society_. The Parties in all Causes, speak themselves for the most part, and some of the Magistrates where they think cause requireth, do the part of Advocates without Fee or Reward. Though among the several Colonies which were founded here by the confluence of dissenting Zealots, this Government is exercis’d, differing from that of the Church and State of _England_: yet in those Provinces which are granted by particular Persons, the Government is much more conformable to that of _England_; but as the _Mattachusets_ or _Bostoners_ were from the beginning the most Potent and Predominant of all the rest of the Colonies, (insomuch, that _Boston_ may well be accounted the Metropolis of all _New England_,) so of late years they have still usurp’d more and more Power and Authority over the rest; and especially have not stuck to give Laws to the foresaid Provinces allotted to particular Persons, and have gone about wholly to subjugate those places to themselves, intrenching upon the rights of the true Proprietors; and that, even contrary to the Kings express Commands by his Officers, there, and as it were in open defiance of his Majesty and Government, as is evident from this following Narration, of their behavior upon a business of this nature. [Sidenote: Proceedings of the _Mattachusets_ against his Majesties Commissioners.] In the Year of our Lord 1665. his Majesties Commissioners for the Affairs of _New England_, being in the Province of _Mayne_, the People being much unsetled in Point or Government, by reason the _Mattachusets_ Colony, or _Boston_ Government, did usurp compulsively a Power over them contrary to their wills; and the right of Sir _Ferdinando Gorges_ Heir, who had his Commission then in the place, did unanimously Petition to his Majesties Commissioners to settle the Government; upon which the said Commissioners examin’d the Bounds and Right of Mr. _Gorges_ Patent, with all the Allegations and Pretensions on both sides, and so according to their Instruction from his Majesty, did settle a temporary Government under his Majesty’s immediate Authority, until such time as his Majesty should give his final determination thereof; and for that end did Institute Justices of the Peace to Govern the Province according to the true Laws of _England_. Also his Majesty was pleas’d by his _Mandamus_ in _April 1666_, to the Governors of _Boston_, to signifie that it was his will and pleasure, That the Province of _Main_ should stand good as his Commissioners had setled it, until he had more leisure to determine it; yet notwithstanding, after three years quiet possession, and exercising of Government by the Kings Justices, according to their Commission granted by his Majesty’s Commissioners, the _Bostoners_, without any Conference with the said Justices, did in a hostile manner oppose the King’s Power, _July 1668._ which was as followeth: The General Court of _Boston_ sent their Warrants to keep Court at _York_ under their Authority, and for that purpose Commissionated Magistrates by their own Authority, namely Major General _John Leveret_, Mr. _Edward Ting_, Captain _Richard Walden_, and Captain _Robert Pike_: Whereupon the King’s Justices did oppose their Warrants, and sent Post to _New York_, with an Address to General _Nicholas_, for Advice what to do therein; who forthwith dispatch’d away to the Governors of _Boston_, informing them of the danger of their Proceeding, it being an open breach of Duty, to subvert the Government establish’d by his Majesty’s Power; also sent the King’s _Mandamus_, _April 1666._ that will’d to the contrary. Notwithstanding the _Boston_ Magistrates in _July 1668._ in order to their _Boston_ Commission, came to _York_ Town in the said Province, with several Armed Men, Horse and Foot, to keep Court under their Authority; Opposition was made by the King’s Justices, and his Majesty’s Power was urg’d, but little regard thereunto shewn; his Majesties _Mandamus_ was likewise much insisted upon, and produced by the Justices, who ask’d the _Bostoners_ what they thought of it? and how they durst act so contrary to the King’s Will and Pleasure? Major General _Leveret_ told them, That he believ’d it might be the King’s Hand, but he had a Commission from the general Court at _Boston_, which he would follow and observe by the help of God. The same day in the Afternoon the said Major General _Leveret_, with the rest of the _Boston_ Magistrates, seiz’d and imprison’d the Province Marshal in doing his Office, and then forthwith went in warlike posture to the Court-house, where the King’s Justices sat in Judicature, and putting them from their Seats, sat down themselves in their Places, and Executed their _Boston_ Commission. The King’s Justices drew a _Protest_ against their Proceedings, and so left the Decision to God’s Providence, and his Majesty’s good Pleasure. Then they turn’d out all Officers, both Military and Civil, and Swore others in their Places under their Authority; they forc’d the whole Record of the Province out of the Recorders House contrary to his Will, by vertue of a Special Warrant from that Court. They imprison’d the Mayor of the said Province about three weeks, forcing him to give in five hundred Pound Bonds, not to act according to his Commission; which with some Reservations he was forc’d to deny for the security of his Estate. These riotous Proceedings thus acted with such a precipitate fury, so incens’d his Majesty, that speedy care had been taken to reduce them to reason, had they not upon mature consideration bethought themselves afterwards to yield Obedience to his Majesties Orders. Having treated at large of all that concerns _New England_ in general, both in reference to the Natives and the _English_ Planters, we shall conclude with a brief view of the Provinces of _Laconia_ and _Main_, as they are truly Describ’d (among other ingenuous Collections and Observations of the Affairs of _America_, and especially these Parts) by _Ferdinando Gorges_ Esq; Heir to the above-mention’d Sir _Ferdinando_, and thereby sole Lord of the said Provinces, onely contracting what hath been by him deliver’d more at large. [Sidenote: A brief Description of _Laconia_, a Province in _New England_.] Among divers Plantations of the _English_ happily Founded in _New England_, is a Province to the Landward, nam’d _Laconia_, so call’d by reason of the great Lakes therein, but by the ancient Inhabitants thereof it is call’d _The Countrey of the Troquois_: It lies between the Latitude of forty four and forty five Degrees, having the Rivers of _Sagadehock_ and _Merrimeck_ on the Sea-Coast of _New England_, Southerly from it; into each of which Rivers there is a short Passage, frequented by the Salvages inhabiting near the Lakes. Also it hath the great Lakes which tend towards _California_ in the South Sea on the West thereof: On the North thereof is the great River of _Canada_, into which the said River disgorgeth it self by a fair large River, well replenish’d with many fruitful Islands: The Air thereof is pure and wholesom, the Countrey pleasant, having some high Hills, full of goodly Forrests, and fair Valleys and Plains, fruitful in Corn, Vines, Chesnuts, Wallnuts, and infinite sorts of other Fruits, large Rivers well stor’d with Fish, and inviron’d with goodly Meadows full of Timber-trees. One of the great Lakes is call’d _The Lake of Troquois_, which together with a River of the same Name, running into the River of _Canada_, is sixty or seventy Leagues in length. In the Lake are four fair Islands, which are low and full of goodly Woods and Meadows, having store of Game for Hunting, as Stags, Fallow-Deer, Elks, Roe-Bucks, Beavers, and other sorts of Beasts which come from the Main Land to the said Islands. The Rivers which fall into the Lakes have in them good store of Beavers; of which Beasts, as also of the Elks, the Salvages make their chiefest Traffick. The said Islands have been inhabited heretofore by the Salvages, but are now abandon’d by reason of their late Wars one with another: They contain twelve or fifteen Leagues in length, and are seated commodiously for Habitation in the midst of the Lake, which abounds with divers kinds of wholesom Fish. From this Lake run two Rivers Southward, which fall into the Eastern and Southern Sea-Coast of _New England_. Into this Lake there went many years since certain _French_ of _Quebeck_, who sided with the _Algovinquins_, with the help of their _Canoos_, which they carried the space of five Miles over the _Impossible Falls_, to Fight a Battel in revenge of some former Injuries done by the _Troquois_ to the _Algovinquins_, who had the Victory; for which cause the _French_ have been so hated ever since by the Nation of the _Troquois_, that none of them durst ever appear in any part of that Lake. But their Trade, said to be sixteen thousand Beavers yearly, is partly sold to the _Dutch_, who Trade with the Westend of the said Lake over Land by Horses, from their Plantation upon _Hudson_’s _River_: and another part is conceiv’d to be purchas’d by the _Hiroons_, who being Newters, are Friends both to the one and the other; and these _Hiroons_ bring down the greatest part of all by the River of _Canada_. The Way over Land to this great Lake, from the Plantation of _Pascataway_, hath been attempted by Captain _Walter Neale_, once Governor, at the Charges of Sir _Ferdinando Gorges_, Captain _Mason_, and some Merchants of _London_, and the Discovery wanted but one days Journey of finishing, because their Victuals was spent, which, for want of Horses, they were enforc’d to carry with their Arms, and their Clothes, upon their Backs: They intended to have made a settlement for Trade by Pinnaces upon the said Lake, which they reckon to be about ninety or a hundred Miles from the Plantation over Land. The People of the Countrey are given to Hunting of wild Beasts, which is their chiefest Food. Their Arms are Bowes and Arrows. Their Armor is made partly of Wood, and partly of a kind of twisted Stuff like Cotton-Wool. Their Meat is Flour of _Indian_ Corn, of that Countreys growth, sodden to Pap, which they preserve for times of Necessity when they cannot Hunt. This Province of _Laconia_, however known by a distinct Name, is included within the Province of _Main_, which offers it self next to our consideration. [Sidenote: Of the Province of _Main_.] All that part of the Continent of _New England_, which was allotted by Patent to Sir _Ferdinando Gorges_ and to his Heirs, he thought fit to call by the Name of _The Province of Main_. It takes it beginning at the entrance of _Pascatoway_ Harbor, and so passeth up the same into the River of _Newichwavoch_; and through the same unto the farthest Head thereof; and from thence North-Westwards for the space of a hundred and twenty Miles; and from the Mouth of _Pascatoway_ Harbor aforesaid, North-Eastward along the Sea-Coast, to _Sagadehock_; and up the River thereof to _Kinibequy_ River, even as far as the Head thereof; and into the Land North-Westwards, for the space of a hundred and twenty Miles. To these Territories are also adjoyn’d the North half of the Isles of _Sholes_, together with the Isles of _Capawick_ and _Nautican_, as also all the little Islands lying within five Leagues of the _Main_, all along the Sea-Coast, between the aforesaid Rivers of _Pascatoway_ and _Sagadehock_. He no sooner had this Province setled upon him, but he gave publick notice, That if anyone would undertake by himself and his Associates, to Transport a competent number of Inhabitants, to Plant in any part of his Limits, he would assign unto him or them such a proportion of Land, as should in reason satisfie them, reserving onely to himself some small High-Rent, as 2 _s._ or 2 _s._ 6 _d._ for a hundred Acres _per Annum_: and if they went about to build any Town or City, he would Endow them with such Liberties and Immunities, as should make them capable to Govern themselves within their own Limits, according to the Liberties granted to any Town or Corporation within this Realm of _England_. And as for others of the meaner sort who went as Tenants, that they should have such quantities of Land assign’d them as they were able to manage, at the Rate of 4 _d._ or 6 _d._ an Acre, according to the nature or situation of the Place they settle in. And for the Division of the Province, and the Form of Government which he intended to Establish, he first divided the Province into several Parts; and those again he subdivided into distinct Regiments, as East, West, North, and South; those again into several Hundreds, Parishes and Tythings, and these to have their several Officers to Govern, according to such Laws as should be agreed upon by publick Assent of the Free-holders, with the approbation of himself or Deputy, and the principal Officers of the publick State. The setled Government for the general State, to whom all Appeals were to be made, and from whom all Instructions for the welfare of the Publick were to issue, were to consist of himself or his Deputy, who was to be chosen every three year by himself, with the advice of his Council: Next a Chancellor for the determination of all Causes; A Treasurer, to whom the care of the publick Revenue was to be committed; A Marshal, whose Office was to oversee the Regiments, and to provide Men for publick Service; An Admiral, to take care of all Maritime Affairs, to whom a Judge of the Admiralty was to be joyn’d to determine all Maritime Causes; A Master of the Ordnance, to look to the publick Arms and Ammunition; A Secretary, to receive Intelligence, and to acquaint himself or Deputy therewith. To these belong all their several Officers and Ministers for the Execution of all Matters proper to their several Places. The chief Town of this Province is call’d _Gorgiana_, which is Govern’d by a Mayor, the rest are onely inconsiderable Villages or scatter’d Houses; but through Encouragement given to Adventurers and Planters, it may prove in time a very flourishing Place, and be replenish’d with many fair Towns and Cities, it being a Province both fruitful and pleasant. SECT. II. New Netherland, now call’d New York. That Tract of Land formerly call’d _The New Netherland_, doth contain all that Land which lieth in the North parts of _America_, betwixt _New England_ and _Mary-Land_; the length of which Northward into the Countrey, as it hath not been fully discover’d, so it is not certainly known: The breadth of it is about two hundred Miles. The principal Rivers within this Tract, are _Hudson_’s-River, _Raritan_-River, _Delaware-Bay_-River. The chief Islands are the _Manhatans_-Island, _Long_-Island, and _Staten_-Island. The first which discover’d this Countrey was _Henry Hudson_, who being hir’d by the _East-India_ Company to seek a Passage in the _Northern America_ to _China_, set Sail _Anno 1609._ in the _Half-Moon_ Frigat; coming before _Terre-neuff_, he stood about towards the South-West, where Sailing up a great River, he found two Men Clad in _Ruffelo_’s Skins; and from thence arriv’d safe at _Amsterdam_. _New Netherland_ thus discover’d, invited many Merchants to settle a firm Plantation there; to which purpose they obtain’d Letters Patents in 1614. granted them by the _States_ in the _Hague_, That they might onely Traffick to _New Netherland_; whereupon they earnestly prosecuting the Design, sent out _Adrian Block_ and _Godyn_, who discover’d several Coasts, Isles, Havens, and Rivers. The Countrey, as they said, being then void, was therefore free for any body that would take possession of it: Notwithstanding which pretence, they were scarce warm in their Quarters, when Sir _Samuel Argal_, Governor of _Virginia_, having first spoil’d the _French_ in _Accadie_, as we said, disputed the Possession with these also. And although they pleaded _Hudson_’s Right (who by Commission from King _James_, and upon an _English_ Account, had lately discover’d those Parts) and pretended they had not onely bought all his Cards and Maps of the Countrey, but all his Interest and Right also, and had fully contented him for all his Pains and Charges in the Discovery; yet the said _Hudson_ being an _English_-man, and acting all that he did by Commission from the King of _England_, upon Debate it was concluded, That the Land could not be alienated after Discovery without the King of _England_’s consent, especially it being but a part of the Province of _Virginia_, already possess’d by the Subjects of _England_: So that they were forc’d to wave that Title, and the _Dutch_ Governor submitted his Plantation to His Majesty of _England_, and to the Governor of _Virginia_, for and under him: Upon which Terms for a good while they held it. Afterwards, upon confidence, it seems, of a new Governor sent from _Amsterdam_, they not onely fail’d to pay the promis’d Contribution and Tribute, but fell to fortifie themselves, and to entitle the Merchants of _Amsterdam_ to an absolute Propriety and Dominion of the Country, independent of any other; building Towns, as _New Amsterdam_; raising Forts, as _Orange Fort_, near the Branch of the _Nordt River_, which they call _Hell-Gate_. Complaint whereof being made to King _Charles_, and by his Ambassador represented to the _States_, they disown the business, and declare by Publick Instrument, that it was onely a private Undertaking, _viz._ of the _West-India_ Company of _Amsterdam_. Whereupon a Commission was granted to Sir _George Calvert_, made Lord _Baltimore_ in _Ireland_, to Possess and Plant the Southern parts thereof, lying towards _Virginia_, by the name of _Mary-land_; and to Sir _Edmund Loyden_, to Plant the Northern parts towards _New England_, by the name of _Nova Albion_: Which makes the _Dutch_ the second time seem willing to compound; and for the Sum of two thousand and five hundred Pounds, they offer to be gone, and leave all they had there. But taking advantage of the troubles in _England_, which then began to appear, and soon after follow’d, they not only go back from their first Propositions, and make higher Demands, but also most mischievously (as some report) furnish the Natives with Arms, and teach them the use of them, as it may be thought, expecting to use their help upon occasion, against the _English_. [Illustration: NOVI BELGII] After His Majesties Restauration, His Majesty being truly inform’d of his just Pretences to all that Usurp’d Territory call’d _New Netherland_, (the same having been formerly part of _New England_) and of how great prejudice to the Act of Navigation, and how dangerous Intruders the _Dutchmen_ are generally upon other Princes Dominions, what mischief might ensue to all our _English_ Plantations in time of War, if the _Dutch_ were permitted to strengthen themselves in the very heart of His Majesties Dominions, being Masters of one of the most commodious Ports and Rivers in _America_: His Majesty resolv’d to seize upon the same, as his undoubted Right, and in _May 1664._ having design’d four Commissioners to the perfecting of Affairs in _New England_, Collonel _Richard Nichols_, Sir _Robert Carr_, _George Cartwright_, and _Samuel Mawrick_ Esquires, with three Ships of War to convey them to _Boston_: The matter was so order’d, that the same Ships serv’d for the reducing of the Town and Fort of _New Amsterdam_, upon conditions, advantageous to His Majesty, and easie to the _Dutch_. Now begins _New Netherland_ to lose the Name, for His Majesty having conferr’d by Patent upon his Royal Highness the Duke of _York_ and _Albany_, all the Acquisitions made upon Foraigners, together with _Long-Island_, the West end whereof was wholly setled and Peopled by _Dutch-men_; his Royal Highness impower’d, by Commission as his Deputy-Governor, Colonel _Nichols_, Groom of his Bed-chamber, to take the Charge and Direction of Reducing and Governing all those Territories; it was by him thought fit, to change some principal denominations of Places, _viz._ _New Netherland_ into _York-shire_; _New Amsterdam_ into _New York_; _Fort-Amscel_ into _Fort-James_; _Fort-Orange_ into _Fort-Albany_; and withal, to change _Burgomasters_, _Schepen_, and _Schout_, into Mayor, Aldermen, and Sheriff, with Justices of the Peace; so that all the Civil Policy is conformable to the Methods and Practise of _England_, whereas _New England_ retains only the name of _Constable_ in their whole Rolls of Civil Officers. It is plac’d upon the neck of the Island _Manhatans_, looking towards the Sea; encompass’d with _Hudson_’s River, which is six Miles broad; the Town is compact and oval, with very fair Streets and several good Houses; the rest are built much after the manner of _Holland_, to the number of about four hundred Houses, which in those parts are held considerable: Upon one side of the Town is _James-Fort_, capable to lodge three hundred Souldiers and Officers; it hath four Bastions, forty Pieces of Cannon mounted; the Walls of Stone, lin’d with a thick Rampart of Earth; well accommodated with a Spring of fresh Water, always furnish’d with Arms and Ammunition, against Accidents: Distant from the Sea seven Leagues, it affords a safe Entrance, even to unskilful Pilots; under the Town side, Ships of any Burthen may Ride secure against any Storms, the Current of the River being broken by the interposition of a small Island, which lies a Mile distant from the Town. About ten Miles from _New York_ is a Place call’d _Hell-Gate_, which being a narrow Passage, there runneth a violent Stream both upon Flood and Ebb; and in the middle lie some Rocky Islands, which the Current sets so violently upon, that it threatens present Shipwrack; and upon the Flood is a large Whirlwind, which continually sends forth a hideous roaring, enough to affright any Stranger from passing farther, and to wait for some _Charon_ to conduct him through; yet to those that are well acquainted, little or no danger: It is a place of great Defence against any Enemy coming in that way, which a small Fortification would absolutely prevent, and necessitate them to come in at the West end of _Long-Island_ by _Sandy Hook_, where _Nutten Island_ forces them within the Command of the Fort at _New York_, which is one of the best Pieces of Defence in the North parts of _America_. It is built most of Brick and Stone, and cover’d with red and black Tyle, and the Land being high, it gives at a distance a pleasing prospect to the Spectators. The Inhabitants consist most of _English_ and _Dutch_, and have a considerable Trade with _Indians_ for Beaver, Otter, and _Rackoon_-Skins, with other Furrs; as also for Bear, Deer and _Elke_-Skins; and are supply’d with Venison and Fowl in the Winter, and Fish in the Summer by the _Indians_, which they buy at an easie Rate; and having the Countrey round about them, they are continually furnish’d with all such Provisions as is needful for the Life of Man, not onely by the _English_ and _Dutch_ within their own, but likewise by the adjacent Colonies. [Sidenote: _Manhattans_ River.] The _Manhattans_, or _Great River_, being the chiefest, having with two wide Mouths wash’d the mighty Island _Watouwaks_, falls into the Ocean. The Southern Mouth is call’d _Port May_, or _Godyns Bay_. In the middle thereof lies an Island call’d _The States Island_; and a little higher the _Manhattans_, so call’d from the Natives, which on the East side of the River dwell on the Main Continent. They are a cruel People, and Enemies to the _Hollanders_, as also of the _Sanhikans_, which reside on the Western Shore. Farther up are the _Makwaes_ and _Mahikans_, which continually War one against another. In like manner all the Inhabitants on the West side of the River _Manhattan_ are commonly at Enmity with those that possess the Eastern Shore; who also us’d to be at variance with the _Hollanders_, when as the other People Westward kept good Correspondency with them. On a small Island near the Shore of the _Makwaes_, lay formerly a Fort, provided with two Drakes and eleven Stone Guns, yet was at last deserted. [Sidenote: Wholesom Waters.] This Countrey hath many removable Water-falls, descending from steep Rocks, large Creeks and Harbors, fresh Lakes and Rivulets, pleasant Fountains and Springs, some of which boyl in the Winter, and are cold and delightful to drink in Summer. The Inhabitants never receive any damage by Deluges; neither from the Sea, because the Water rises not above a Foot; nor by the swelling Rivers, which sometimes, for a few days covering the Plains, at their deserting them, leave them fat and fruitful. The Sea-Coast is Hilly, and of a sandy and clayie Soil, which produces abundance of Herbs and Trees. [Sidenote: Trees.] The Oak grows there generally sixty or seventy Foot high, and for the most part free from Knots, which makes it the better fit for Shipping. The Nut-trees afford good Fuel, and a strange Prospect when the Wood is set on fire, either to hunt out a Deer, or to clear the Ground fit to be Till’d. Some Plants brought hither, grow better than in _Holland_ it self, as Apples, Pears, Cherries, Peaches, Apricocks, Strawberries, and the like. [Illustration: NOVUM AMSTERODAMUM] [Sidenote: Vines.] Their Vines grow wild in most places, and bear abundance of blue, white, and Muskadine Grapes: Sometime since the Inhabitants made a considerable advantage by the Wine of them, which is not inferior to either _Rhenish_ or _French_. [Sidenote: Water Lemmons.] All manner of Plants known in _Europe_ grow in their Gardens: The Water-Lemmons, no less pleasing to the Palate than healthful when grown ripe; they are about the bigness of an indifferent Cabbage: the _English_ press a Juice out of them, which if it did not turn sowre in a short time, might well be compar’d with _Spanish_ Wine. The _Calabashes_ which grow there, made hollow, serve for Water-cups. Pumpions are also there in great abundance. [Sidenote: Wheat.] Their Wheat though Set six Foot deep, grows very speedily: Kidney-Beans being planted amongst it, they will wind about the Stalks thereof. [Sidenote: Pease.] Gray Pease grow here so fast, that they gather them twice a year. In one Field Physical Herbs and _Indigo_ grow wild in great abundance; and Barley springs above a Mans heighth. Moreover, there are divers sorts of sweet-smelling Flowers. [Sidenote: Soyl of the Mountains.] The Hills are most of a fat and clayie Soil, fit to make Pots, Tobacco-pipes, or any other sort of Earthen Ware. [Sidenote: Gold and Silver-Mines.] In some places also is store of Mountain Crystal, and that sort of Mineral which we call _Muscovia Glass_: Others afford Marble, Serpentine Stone, and other sorts of hard Stone. And though the Natives did not think it worth their while, or were not in a capacity to dig for Minerals themselves, yet it remains without contradiction, that the Mountains inclose both Gold and Silver. When Captain _William Clieff_, _Anno 1645._ us’d the _Indian_ Interpreter _Agheroense_ (to decide the Differences which arose between the _West-India Company_ and the wild People call’d _Makwaes_,) he observ’d him to paint his Face with a yellow glittering colour, which he judg’d to be of some rich Mineral: whereupon buying some of the said _Agheroense_, he put it into a Crusible, and gain’d two small pieces of Gold out of the same, valu’d at six Shillings; but keeping it private, and purchasing a great quantity of the said Mineral from _Agheroense_ (who had show’d him the Mountain which produced the same) extracted good store of Gold out of it; which possessing _Clieff_ with a belief of having found out a business of great consequence, he sent _Arent Corsen_ of _New-haven_ with the fore-mention’d Mineral to _Holland_; but the Ship being never heard of afterwards, and the Princess Pink, in which Captain _Clieff_ was himself, with store of the new-found Mineral, being cast away, the Business came to nothing. [Sidenote: Paint after a strange manner.] The Inhabitants, though divided into several Nations, yet agree in many things, as in painting their Bodies, Shields, Clubs, and other Utensils in their Houses. The Colours wherewith they paint themselves they press out of Plants, or make them of certain Stones grownd into very fine Powder. The chiefest Plant is not unlike the Myrtle, onely it hath more Boughs, and bears red Berries; the Juice of which being dry’d in the Sun, is afterwards preserv’d in little Bags. The Natives temper their Colours with Water, and paint their Bodies with the same: It is as good a Purple as can be found. They also draw Ships, Trees, and Beasts after a very rough manner: In stead of Feathers they wear pleited Hair, which being colour’d red, hath an excellent gloss, which never fades though it Rain on the same. [Sidenote: Horses.] The Horses bred in this Countrey, being either brought thither from _England_ or _Utrecht_, far exceed those of _English_ breed; but are both of them subject to a strange Disease, of which many die in few hours. The same Distemper also seizes on Cattel if they go into Forrest Pasture: But the onely thing to cure the same, is Hay from salt Marshy Grounds. [Sidenote: Hogs.] The Oaken Woods have store of Hogs, which if taken and fatned with _Turkish_ Wheat, are most delicious Meat. [Sidenote: Sheep.] The Sheep, though they breed well there, yet are very scarce, because the Planters not being able to spare Men to watch them, they are often devour’d by Wolves. There are also abundance of Deer, all sorts of Fowls, Turkies, Geese, Ducks, Pigeons, and the like. [Sidenote: Lyons.] The Lyons, whose Skins the _Indians_ bring to Market, are taken on a high Mountain fifteen days Journey South-West from thence. [Sidenote: Black Bears.] There are likewise many black Bears, fearful of humane kind, but if Hunted, they run direct on those that pursue them: they sleep all the Winter, lying six Weeks on one side, and six on the other, and sucking their Feet all the time: They generally lurk among Brambles, or in the Concavities of some hollow Mountain. [Sidenote: Strange Beasts.] On the Borders of _Canada_ there is seen sometimes a kind of Beast which hath some resemblance with a Horse, having cloven Feet, shaggy Mayn, one Horn just on their Forehead, a Tail like that of a wild Hog, black Eyes, and a Deers Neck: it feeds in the nearest Wildernesses: the Males never come amongst the Females except at the time when they Couple, after which they grow so ravenous, that they not onely devour other Beasts, but also one another. Towards the South of _New York_ are many Buffles, Beasts which (according to _Erasmus Stella_) are betwixt a Horse and a Stag: though they are of a strong Constitution, yet they die of the smallest Wound, and are subject to the Falling-sickness: they have broad branchy Horns like a Stag, short Tail, rough Neck, Hair colour’d according to the several Seasons of the Year, broad and long Ears, hanging Lips, little Teeth, and Skin so thick, as not easie to be pierced: The Females differ from the Males, for they have no Horns; both may easily be made tame: when Hunted, they vomit out a sort of scalding Liquor on the Dogs: they have great force in their Claws, for they can kill a Wolf with the same at one blow: their Flesh, either fresh or salted, is a good Diet: their Claws also cure the Falling-sickness. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Harts.] But no Beasts are more plentiful here than Harts and Stags, which feed up and down in great Herds: when they are Hunted by Wolves or Men, they immediately take the next River, where they are caught several together, by being cross’d in their Swimming, and affrighted by the Eccho which comes from the Mountains, made by the Hunters hollowing on the other Shore, which makes them fearful of Landing: whilst the Huntsmen joyning several pieces of Wood together get upon them, and Rowing towards these Deer, intercept them, being tir’d and out of breath. [Sidenote: Musk-Cats.] Moreover, this Countrey breeds many Musk Cats, especially in Marshy Grounds. These Beasts are beautiful to the Eye, having black speckled Skins, their Mouths, full of sharp Teeth, and their Tails being long trail after them. Many of the Learned maintain a Dispute concerning Civet, Whether it be the Seed of the Civet-Cat? the Affirmative, which _Cardanus_ maintain’d, is contradicted by _Julius Scaliger_. _Matthiolus_, an Author of no little credit, supposes that Civet is the Sweat of the Cat, because it is most chiefly taken when these Beasts are exceedingly vex’d and wearied: But since the Sweat runs from all parts of the Body, which nevertheless do not all produce Civet, it is impossible that Sweat should be Civet. Others account Civet to be the Dung of the Cats; which last seems to come nearest to truth: for certainly it is nothing else but an Excrement in the fleshy parts about their Pizzle, or near the Fundament. The Cats being in pain to be discharg’d of this Civet, free themselves from it by rubbing a Tree; and also fawn on those which take it from them with a Spoon. [Sidenote: _Plin._ lib. 32. cap. 3.] Besides all other wild Creatures, the Countrey according to _Adrian Vander Donk_, produces yearly eighty thousand Beavers. _Pliny_ relates, that these Beasts bite off their Pizzles and throw them to the Hunter, which are an exceeding good Medicine to help Abortion, stop the Monethly Flowers, Giddiness in the Head, Gout, Lameness, Belly and Tooth-ach, Rhumes, Poyson, and the Evil. But _Pliny_ makes a great mistake herein, for the Beavers have a small Pissel fasten’d to their Back-bone, in such a manner, that they cannot loose them but with hazard of their lives: They live in the Water, and on the Shore, in great companies together, in Nests built of Wood, which deserve no small admiration, being made after this manner: The Beavers first gather all the loose Wood, which they find along the Banks of the Rivers, of which, if there be not enough, they bite the Bark off from the Trees in the neighboring Woods, then with their Tusks, of which two grow above, and two below in their Mouths, they gnaw the main body of the Tree so long, till it drops asunder: Their Nests very artificial, are six Stories high, cover’d on the top with Clay to keep out Rain; in the middle is a passage which goes to the River, into which they run so soon as they perceive a Man; to which purpose one of them stands Sentinel, and in the Winter keeps open the Water from freezing, by continual moving of his Tail, which is flat without Hair, and the most delicious Meat that can be had. The Beavers go big sixteen Weeks, and once a year bring forth four young, which suck and cry like young Children, for the Dam of them rises on her hinder Feet, and gives her Teats, which grow between the fore-legs to two of her young, each of them one; the foremost legs of a Beaver resemble those of a Dog, the hindermost those of a Goose; on each side of the vent are two swellings within two thin Skins; out of their vent runs generally an Oily moysture, with which they anoint all the parts of their body which they can reach, to keep them from being wet; within they are like a cut-up Hog; they live on the Leaves and Barks of Trees; they love their young ones exceedingly; the long Hairs, which shining, stick out on the back, fall off in Summer, and grow again against Harvest; they have short Necks, strong Sinews and Legs, and move very swiftly in the Water, and on the Land; if incompass’d by Men or Dogs, they bite most severely; the right _Castoreum_, so highly esteem’d by Physicians, is a long _Vesica_, not unlike a Pear, within the body of the female Beaver, the _Indians_ mince the Cods of the Male Beavers amongst their Tobacco, because they produce no _Castoreum_. [Sidenote: Fowls in _New York_.] This Country abounds also with Fowls; for besides Hawks, Kites, and other Birds of Prey, there are abundance of Cranes, of several sorts, some grey, some brown, others quite white; all of them have firm Bodies, and Bones without Marrow, Claws of a finger long, strong and crooked Bills, their Brains dry, their Eyes little and hollow, hard Features, the left Foot lesser than the right, both deform’d, their Blood thick, and the Excrements of a horrid smell; they breed most in old Woods, whose ground is without Brambles, and also near the Water, for they feed on Fish, and devour all sorts of Fowls, nay, snatch up Hares, Rabbets, Tortels, and several other sorts of Animals, which they carry away with them in the Air; nay, when hungry, they seize on one another; some of them fly abroad for their prey about noon, others at Sun-rising; they fall like Lightning on what e’re they pursue; they drink little, except the Blood of those Creatures which they devour; they are very libidinous, coupling above thirty times a day, not only with their like, but also with the Hens of Hawks, and other Birds; they lay their biggest Eggs in thirty days, and the lesser in twenty days; they generally bring forth three young; those of them that cannot endure to look full against the Sun, are thrown out of their Nests; the young ones when they begin to be fledg’d, are by the old carry’d into the Air, and let flie, but supported by them; their sight is wonderful quick; for though they flie as high as ever they are able to be discern’d, yet they can see the least Fish that is in the Water, and a Hare lying in the Bushes: their Breath stinks horribly, wherefore their Carcases suddenly rot; though they are libidinous, yet they live long; most of them die of hunger, because their Bills when they grow old, grow so crooked, that they cannot open the same, wherefore they flie up into the Air against the Sun, and falling into the coldest Rivers, loose their Feathers and die. [Sidenote: Pigeons.] Besides the foremention’d Birds of prey, there are abundance of Storks, Ravens, Crows, Owls, Swallows, Gold-finches, Ice-birds, Kites, Quails, Pheasants, and Winter _Kings_, and which are most remarkable for their rich Feathers, the _Spechtes_, they pick great holes in Trees, and make a noise as if a Man were cutting down a Tree. The Pigeons flie in such flocks, that the _Indians_ remove with them to the place where they make their Nests, where the young ones being taken by hundreds, serve them for a Moneths Provision. [Sidenote: Pretty Birds.] Moreover, _New York_ breeds a strange Bird about a Thumb long, full of glistering Feathers; it lives by sucking of Flowers like a Bee, and is so tender, that it immediately dies if water be spirted upon it; the Carcase being dry’d, is kept for a Rarity. [Sidenote: Turkies.] But this Countrey abounds chiefly in Turkies, whose plenty deserves no less admiration than their bulk, and the delicious taste of their Flesh, for they go feeding forty or fifty in a flock, and weigh sometime forty or fifty pound apiece; the Natives either shoot them, or take them with a Bait stuck on an Angle: In _March_ and Harvest the Waters swarm with Geese, Teal, Snites, Ducks, and Pelicans, besides many strange sorts of Fowls not known in _Europe_. [Sidenote: Fish.] The Rivers and Lakes produce Sturgeon, Salmon, Carps, Pearch, Barbils, all sorts of Eels, and many other Fish which are taken near Water-falls: The Sea affords Crabs with and without Shells, Sea-cocks, and Horses, Cod, Whiting, Ling, Herrings, Mackrel, Flounders, Tar-buts, Tortels, and Oysters, of which some are a Foot long, and have Pearl, but are a little brownish. [Sidenote: _Rattle-Snake._] Amongst the Poysonous Creatures which infest _New York_, the chiefest and most dangerous is the _Rattle-Snake_, whose description we have already had at large in _New England_. [Sidenote: Constitution of the Inhabitants.] [Sidenote: Their Diet.] The Inhabitants have their Hair black as Jet, harsh like Horse-hair; they are broad Shoulder’d, small Wasted, brown Ey’d, their Teeth exceeding white; with Water they chiefly quench their Thirst: Their general Food is Flesh, Fish, and _Indian_ Wheat, which stamp’d, is boyl’d to a Pap, by them call’d _Sappaen_: They observe no set time to Eat, but when they have an Appetite their Meals begin. Beavers Tails are amongst them accounted a great Dainty: When they go to Hunt, they live several days on parch’d Corn, which they carry in little Bags ty’d about their middle; a little of that said Corn thrown into Water swells exceedingly. [Sidenote: _Hudson_’s adventures remarkable.] _Henry Hudson_ relates, That Sailing in the River _Montains_, in forty Degrees, he saw the _Indians_ make strange Gestures in their Dancing and Singing; he observ’d farther, that they carry’d Darts pointed with sharp Stones, Sodder’d to the Wood; that they slept under the Sky on Mats or Leaves; took much Tobacco, and very strong; and that though courteous and friendly, they were very Thieves. He Sailing thirty Leagues further, went in his Boat to an old _Indian_ Commander of forty Men and seventeen Women, who conducted him to the Shore, where they all dwelt in one House, artificially built of the Barks of Oak-trees; round about it lay above three Ships load of Corn, and _Indian_ Beans to dry, besides the Plants which grew in the Fields. No sooner had _Hudson_ enter’d the House, but he was receiv’d on two Mats spread on the ground; and two Men immediately were sent out to shoot Venison or Fowls; and instantly returning, brought two Pigeons; a fat Dog, whom they nimbly flea’d with shells, was also laid down to the fire: They also made other Preparations for _Hudsons_ Entertainment, but not willing to venture himself amongst them, that Night, tasted not of it, notwithstanding the _Indians_ breaking their Darts, threw them into the fire, that thereby they might drive away all fears and jealousies from him. [Illustration] [Sidenote: _New Netherlanders_ Apparel.] The Habits of the Natives, especially of the Men, are few; the Women go more neat than the Men; and though the Winter pinches them with excessive cold, yet they go naked till their thirteenth year: Both Men and Women wear a Girdle of Whale-fins and _Sea-shells_; the Men put a piece of Cloth, half an Ell long, and three quarters broad, between their Legs, so that a square piece hangs behind below his Back, and another before over his Belly. The Women wear a Coat which comes half way down their Legs, so curiously wrought with _Sea-shells_, that one Coat sometimes costs thirty Pounds. Moreover, their Bodies are cover’d with Deer-skins, the lappets or ends of which hang full of Points; a large Skin button’d on the right Shoulder, and ty’d about the middle, serves for an upper Garment, and in the Night for a Blanket: Both Men and Women go for the most part bare-headed; the Women tie their Hair behind in a tuft, over which they wear a square Cap wrought with _Sea-shells_, with which they adorn their Foreheads, and also wear the same about their Neck and Hands, and some also about their middle. Before the _Hollanders_ were Planted here, they wore Shoes and Stockings of _Buffelo_’s-skins; some likewise made Shoes of Wheaten-straw, but of late they come nearer to our Fashions: The Men Paint their Faces with several Colours; the Women only put here and there a black Spot; both of them are very reserv’d. [Sidenote: Their houses.] [Sidenote: Remove.] Their Houses are most of them built of one fashion, onely differing in length; all of them agree in breadth of twenty Foot: They build after this manner, they set Peel’d Boughs of Nut-Trees in the ground, according to the bigness of the place which they intend to build, then joyning the tops of the Boughs together, they cover the Walls and top with the Bark of Cypress, Ashen, and Chest-nut-Trees, which are laid one upon another, the smallest side being turn’d inwards: according to the bigness of the Houses, several Families, to the number of fifteen dwell together, every one having his Apartment. Their Fortifications are most of them built on steep Hills, near Rivers; the access to them is onely at one place, they are built after this manner: They set great Poles in the Ground, with Oaken _Pallisadoes_ on each side, cross-ways one amongst another; between the crosses they set other Trees, to strengthen the Work: Within this inclos’d they generally build twenty or thirty Houses, of which some are a hundred and eighty Foot long, and some less, all of them full of People: In the Summer they pitch Tents along by the River side to Fish; against Winter they remove into the Woods, to be near their Game of Hunting, and also Fuel. [Sidenote: Many Wives.] [Sidenote: Marriages.] [Sidenote: Whoring permitted.] [Sidenote: Strange Marrying.] [Sidenote: Child-bearing Womens strange actions.] [Sidenote: Funerals.] [Sidenote: Mourning over the dead remarkable.] To take many Women is not customary here, only amongst Military Officers, who Marry three or four Wives, which so well agree, that there is never any difference betwixt them; those that are not of Age, never Marry but with the consent and advice of their Parents: Widows and unmarry’d Men follow their own opinion and choice; only they take Cognizance of their Estates and Extraction: The Bridegroom always presents the Bride; for the least offence, the Man after having soundly beaten his Wife, turns her out of Doors, and Marries another, insomuch, that some of them have every year a new Wife: On breach of Marriage, the Children follow the Mother, from whom they account their Generation: They account Adultery, if committed under the bare Canopy of Heaven, a great Sin: Whoring is Licenc’d to single Women, if they receive Money for it, and no Man scruples to Marry them; nay, those that are Marry’d, boast how many they have enjoy’d before their Marriage: She that is inclin’d to Marry, covers her whole body, and sets her self wrapt up in the middle of the way, where a Batchelor passing by sees her, and makes up the Match blindfold: When impregnated, they take great care that their Fruit receives no hindrance nor prejudice: When the time of their Delivery approaches, (which they know exactly) they go to a Melancholly place in the Woods, though in the coldest Weather, where they raise up a Hut of Mats, and bring the Child into the World without any help or Company, wash the Child in cold Water, and wrap it up in Mats; then a few days after going home, they bring up the Infant with great care, none putting them out to Nurse: So long as a Woman gives suck, or is quick with Child, she will not admit of Copulation; one who hath the Flowers, never comes abroad: In time of sickness they faithfully assist one another: When any die, the nearest Relations shut their Eyes; and after having watch’d them some days, they are Interr’d after this manner: The Corps is plac’d sitting with a Stone under its Head, near it they set a Pot, Kettle, Dish, Spoons, Money, and Provisions to use in the other World; then they pile Wood round about it, and cover it over with Planks, on which throwing Earth and Stones, they set _Pallisadoes_, and make the Grave like a House, to which they shew Veneration, wherefore they account it a great piece of villany to deface any thing of it: The Men make no shew of sorrow over the Dead, but the Women mourn exceedingly, and carry themselves very strangely, beating their Breasts, scratching their Faces, and calling night and day on the name of the Deceas’d: The Mothers make great Lamentation at the Death of their Children, especially Sons, for they shave off the Hair of their Heads, which at the Funeral is burnt in the presence of all their Relations; which is also perform’d by the Women when their Husbands die; besides, they black all their Faces, and putting on a Hart-skin Shirt, mourn a whole year, notwithstanding they liv’d very contentiously together. [Sidenote: Conjurers.] On some occasions they go a Worshipping of the Devil, to a certain place where the Sorcerers shew strange Feats of Activity, tumbling over and over, beating themselves, and not without great noise leaping in and about a great Fire: at last they make a great Cry all together; upon which (as they say) the Devil appears to them in the shape either of a tame or wild Beast: the first signifies bad, and the other good fortune; both inform them of future Events, though darkly; and if the business fall out contrary, they affirm that they have not rightly understood the Devil’s meaning. Moreover they bewitch some in such a manner, that they foam at the Mouth, throw themselves into the Fire, and beat themselves severely; and so soon as they whisper in the Ear of those whom they have bewitch’d, they immediately recover their former health. [Sidenote: Language of the _New Netherlanders_.] The Language of this Countrey is very various, yet it is divided into onely four principal Tongues, as the _Manhattans_, _Wappanoo_, _Siavanoo_, and _Minqua_’s, which are very difficult for Strangers to learn, because they are spoken without any Grounds or Rules. [Sidenote: Money.] Their Money is made of the innermost Shells of a certain Shell-fish, cast up twice a year by the Sea: These Shells they grind smooth, and make a Hole in the middle, cutting them of an exact bigness, and so put them on Strings, which then serve in stead of Gold, Silver, and Copper Coin. [Sidenote: Vices and Vertues.] [Sidenote: Strange Stoves.] Now to say something of the Vices and Vertues of the Inhabitants. They are in the first place very slovenly and nasty, stubborn, covetous, revengeful, and much addicted to filching and stealing. Some appear reserv’d, using few words, which they utter after serious consideration, and remember a long time. Their Understandings being improv’d by the _Hollanders_, they are quick of apprehension, to distinguish good from bad: they will not endure any Oppression, but are very patient of Heat, Cold, Hunger and Thirst. They have a strange way of using Stoves, which are set in the Ground and cover’d with Earth, into which they go through a little Door. A sick Person coming into the same, sets himself down, and places hot Stones round about him; which done, and having sweat a considerable time, he leaps into cold Water, by which he finds ease of all his Distempers. [Sidenote: Arms.] [Sidenote: Remarkable actions of some Prisoners.] [Sidenote: Laws.] [Sidenote: Council-Assembly.] Though these People know no great distinction between Man and Man, as other Nations, yet they have noble and ignoble Families amongst them; superior and inferior Offices, which they enjoy by Inheritance; but sometimes the Martial Offices are bestowed according to the Valour of the Persons: Their Generals seldom give their Enemies a Field-Battel, by drawing or dividing their Men into Regiments or Companies, but make it their whole Design to defeat their Enemies by sudden Sallies from Ambuscado’s; for they never stand out a close Fight, unless compell’d to it, but if encompass’d round, they fight to the last Man. When any danger threatens, the Women and Children are convey’d to a secure place. Their Arms formerly were Bowes and Arrows, and Battel-axes, but now they use Musquets, which they have learn’d to handle with great dexterity. Their square Shields cover all their Bodies and Shoulders. About their Heads they tie a Snakes Skin, in the middle of which sticks either a Fox’s or Bear’s Tail. They cannot be known by their Faces, they are all over so besmear’d with Paint of divers colours. They seldom give Quarter to their Enemies, except Women and Children, which the Conquerors use as their own, that by that means they may increase and strengthen themselves: and if any Prisoner is not kill’d presently after the Battel, but falls into the Hands of one whose Relations have formerly been slain by his Party, he is Roasted three days by degrees before he gives up the Ghost. It deserves no small admiration, that the Sufferer during the whole time of his Torture, Sings till he breathes his last. They have few or no Punishments for any Offence, committing few Crimes which are by them accounted Capital. If any one steal, and the Goods be found in his custody, the Governor of the place where he resides commands him onely to restore the same to the Owner. If any one murther or kill the other, the Relations of the slain, if they can take the Malefactor in twenty four hours, may without Examination or delay put him to death also; but that time being once expir’d, the Revenger is liable to be kill’d in the same time by his Relations whom he slew. All Obligations have their power and vertue from certain Presents deliver’d upon the making of a Contract, which is done thus: They dry as many Sticks as they have Articles, which if they agree upon, every Man on the concluding of the Discourse lays a Present before the others Feet. Sometimes they hang up the Presents, because they are often three days in Consultation before they resolve; after which if the Presents be taken down, it is a certain sign of their Agreement; but if not, they proceed no farther, unless the Articles and Presents are alter’d. On Businesses of consequence the Commonalty repair to their Governor’s House, there to hear and enquire what the Nobility there assembled have concluded or resolv’d on; at which the best Orator standing up, tells them their Intentions. It happens sometimes that a turbulent Person making a Mutiny, and refusing to hearken to reason, is immediately beheaded by one of the Nobility; in contradiction of which none dare presume to speak the least word. [Sidenote: Religion.] [Sidenote: Diabolical Worship.] [Sidenote: Their ridiculous Opinion of God.] [Sidenote: As also of the Creation.] There are scarce any steps of Religion found amongst these People, onely they suppose the Moon to have great influence on Plants. The Sun, which over-looks all things, is call’d to witness whene’re they Swear. They bear great respect, and stand much in fear of _Satan_, because they are often plagued by him when they go a Hunting or Fishing: wherefore the first of what they take is burnt in honor of him, that he to whom they ascribe all wickedness might not hurt them. When they feel pain in any part of their Body, they say that the Devil sits in the same. They acknowledge that there resides a God above the Stars, but troubles not himself with what the Devil doth on Earth, because he continually recreates himself with a most beautiful Goddess, whose original is unknown: She on a certain time (say they) descended from Heaven into the Water, (for before the Creation all things were Water) into which she had instantly sunk, had not the Earth arose under her Feet, which grew immediately to such a bigness, that there appear’d a World of Earth, which produc’d all sorts of Herbs and Trees; whilst the Goddess taking to her self a Hart, Bear, and Wolf, and Conceiving by them, she was not long after deliver’d of several Beasts at one time: and from thence proceeded not onely the diversity of Beasts, but also Men, of which some are black, white, or sallow; in nature fearful like a Hart, or cruel and valiant like a Bear, or deceitful like Wolves: after this the Mother of all things ascended up to Heaven again, and sported there with the Supream Lord, whom they say they know not, because they never saw him: wherefore they shall have less to answer for than _Christians_, which pretend to know him to be the Punisher of things both good and bad, which are daily committed by them: and for this ridiculous Opinion they can hardly be brought to embrace the _Christian_ Faith. [Sidenote: Of the Immortality of the Soul.] Concerning the Souls of the Deceased, they believe, that those which have been good in their life-time, live Southward in a temperate Countrey, where they enjoy all manner of pleasure and delight; when as the Wicked wander up and down in a miserable Condition. The Eccho which resounds from the Cries of wild Beasts in the Night, they suppose to be the Spirits of Souls transmigrated into wicked Bodies. [Sidenote: Their _Canticas_, or Dancing.] At their _Canticas_, or Dancing-Matches, where all Persons that come are freely Entertain’d, it being a Festival time. Their Custom is when they Dance, for the Spectators to have short Sticks in their Hands, and to knock the Ground and Sing altogether, whilst they that Dance sometimes act Warlike postures, and then they come in painted for War with their Faces black and red, or some all black, some all red, with some streaks of white under their Eyes, and so jump and leap up and down without any order, uttering many Expressions of their intended Valour. For other Dances they onely shew what antick Tricks their ignorance will lead them to, wringing of their Bodies and Faces after a strange manner, sometimes jumping into the Fire, sometimes catching up a Firebrand, and biting off a live Coal, with many such tricks, that will affright rather than please an _English_-man to look upon them, resembling rather a company of infernal Furies than Men. [Sidenote: Their sitting in Council.] When their King or _Sachem_ sits in Council, he hath a Company of Arm’d Men to guard his Person, great respect being shewn him by the People, which is principally manifested by their silence. After he hath declared the cause of their Convention, he demands their Opinion, ordering who shall begin: The Person order’d to speak, after he hath declar’d his mind, tells them he hath done: no Man ever interrupting any Person in his Speech, nor offering to speak, though he make never so many long stops, till he says he hath no more to say. The Council having all declar’d their Opinions, the King after some pause gives the definitive Sentence, which is commonly seconded with a shout from the People, every one seeming to applaud and manifest their Assent to what is determin’d. If any Person be condemn’d to die, which is seldom, unless for Murther or Incest, the King himself goes out in Person (for you must understand they have no Prisons, and the guilty Person flies into the Woods) where they go in quest of him, and having found him, the King shoots first, though at never such a distance, and then happy is the Man that can shoot him down; for he that hath the fortune to be Executioner, is for his pains made some Captain, or other Military Officer. They grease their Bodies and Hair very often, and paint their Faces with several Colours, as black, white, red, yellow, blue, _&c._ which they take great pride in, every one being painted in a several manner. Within two Leagues of _New York_ lieth _Staten-Island_, it bears from _New York_ West something Southerly: It is about twenty Miles long, and four or five broad, most of it very good Land, full of Timber, and producing all such Commodities as _Long-Island_ doth, besides Tin and store of Iron Oar; and the _Calamine_ Stone is said likewise to be found there: There is but one Town upon it, consisting of _English_ and _French_, but it is capable of entertaining more Inhabitants. Betwixt this and _Long-Island_ is a large Bay, which is the coming in for all Ships and Vessels out of the Sea. On the North-side of this Island _After-skull_ River puts into the Main Land, on the West-side whereof there are two or three Towns, but on the East-side but one. There are very great Marshes or Meadows on both sides of it, excellent good Land, and good convenience for the setling of several Towns. There grows black Walnut and Locust, as there doth in _Virginia_, with mighty, tall, streight Timber, as good as any in the North of _America_: It produceth any Commodity which _Long-Island_ doth. _Hudson_’s River runs by _New York_ Northward into the Countrey, towards the Head of which is seated _New Albany_, a Place of great Trade with the _Indians_, betwixt which and _New York_, being above a hundred Miles, is as good Corn-Land as the World affords, enough to entertain hundreds of Families, which in the time of the _Dutch_ Government of these Parts could not be setled by reason of the _Indians_, excepting one Place, call’d _The Sopers_, which was kept by a Garrison, but since the Reducement of these Parts under His Majesties Obedience, and a Patent granted to his Royal Highness the Duke of _York_, which is about six years, by the care and diligence of the Honorable Collonel _Nichols_, sent thither as Deputy to his Highness, such a League of Peace was made, and Friendship concluded betwixt that Colony and the _Indians_, that they have not resisted or disturb’d any _Christians_ there, in the setling or peaceable possessing of any Lands within that Government, but every Man hath sat under his own Vine, and hath peaceably reap’d and enjoy’d the Fruits of their own Labors, which God continue. [Sidenote: _Raritan-River._] Westward of _After-skull_ River before mention’d, about eighteen or twenty Miles, runs in _Raritan_ River Northward into the Countrey some scores of Miles; both sides of which River are adorn’d with spacious Meadows, enough to feed thousands of Cattel: The Wood-Land is very good for Corn, and stor’d with wild Beasts, as Deer, Elks, and an innumerable multitude of Fowl, as in other parts of the Countrey. This River is thought very capable for the erecting of several Towns and Villages on each side of it, no place in the North of _America_ having better convenience for the maintaining of all sorts of Cattel for Winter and Summer Food. Upon this River is no Town setled, onely one at the Mouth of it; but next to it, Westward, is a Place call’d _Newasons_; where are two or three Towns and Villages setled upon the Sea-side, but none betwixt that and _Delaware-Bay_, which is about sixty Miles, all which is a rich Champain Countrey, free from Stones, and indifferent level, having store of excellent good Timber, and very well water’d, having Brooks or Rivers ordinarily, one or more in every Miles travel. This Countrey is peopled onely with wild Beasts, as Deer, Elks, Bears, and other Creatures, so that in a whole days Journey you shall meet with no Inhabitants except a few _Indians_. It is also full of stately Oaks, whose broad-branch’d tops serve for no other use, but to keep off the Suns heat from the wild Beasts of the Wilderness, where is Grass as high as a Man’s Middle, which serves for no other end, except to maintain the Elks and Deer, who never devour a hundredth part of it, than to be burnt every Spring to make way for new. How many poor People in the World would think themselves happy, had they an Acre or two of Land, whilst here is hundreds, nay thousands of Acres that would invite Inhabitants. [Sidenote: _Delaware-Bay._] _Delaware-Bay_, the Mouth of the River, lieth about the mid way betwixt _New York_ and the _Capes_ of _Virginia_. The best Commodities for any to carry with them to this Countrey is Clothing, the Countrey being full of all sorts of Cattel, which they may furnish themselves withal at an easie Rate, for any sort of _English_ Goods, as likewise Instruments for Husbandry and Building, with Nails, Hinges, Glass, and the like. They get a Livelihood principally by Corn and Cattel, which will there fetch them any Commodities: Likewise they Sowe store of Flax, which they make every one Cloth of for their own wearing; as also Woollen Cloth, and Linsey-woolsey; and had they more Tradesmen amongst them, they would in a little time live without the help of any other Countrey for their Clothing; for Tradesmen there are none but live happily there, as Carpenters, Blacksmiths, Masons, Taylors, Weavers, Shoemakers, Tanners, Brickmakers, and so any other Trade: Them that have no Trade betake themselves to Husbandry, get Land of their own, and live exceeding well. We shall conclude our Discourse of this Countrey with a notable Character given thereof by a late Writer, as to the great advantage of happy living in all respects, for whosoever shall be pleas’d to betake himself thither to live. [Sidenote: The Character of a happy Countrey.] “If there be any terrestrial happiness (saith he) to be had by any People, especially of an inferior rank, it must certainly be here. Here any one may furnish himself with Land, and live Rent-free, yea, with such a quantity of Land, that he may weary himself with walking over his Fields of Corn, and all sorts of Grain, and let his Stock amount to some hundreds; he needs not fear there want of Pasture in the Summer, or Fodder in the Winter, the Woods affording sufficient supply, where you have Grass as high as a Man’s Knees, nay, as high as his Waste, interlac’d with Pea-Vines, and other Weeds that Cattel much delight in, as much as a Man can pass through: And these Woods also every Mile or half-Mile are furnish’d with fresh Ponds, Brooks, or Rivers, where all sorts of Cattel, during the heat of the day, do quench their thirst, and cool themselves. These Brooks and Rivers being inviron’d of each side with several sorts of Trees and Grape-Vines, Arbor-like interchanging places, and crossing these Rivers, do shade and shelter them from the scorching beams of the Sun. Such as by their utmost Labors can scarcely get a Living, may here procure Inheritances of Lands and Possessions, stock themselves with all sorts of Cattel, enjoy the benefit of them whilst they live, and leave them to their Children when they die. Here you need not trouble the Shambles for Meat, nor Bakers and Brewers for Beer and Bread, nor run to a Linnen-Draper for a supply, every one making their own Linnen, and a great part of their woollen Cloth for their ordinary wearing. And how prodigal (if I may so say) hath Nature been to furnish this Countrey with all sorts of wild Beasts and Fowl, which every one hath an interest in, and may Hunt at his pleasure; where, besides the pleasure in Hunting, he may furnish his House with excellent fat Venison, Turkies, Geese, Heath-hens, Cranes, Swans, Ducks, Pigeons, and the like; and wearied with that, he may go a Fishing, where the Rivers are so furnish’d, that he may supply himself with Fish before he can leave off the Recreation. Here one may travel by Land upon the same Continent hundreds of Miles, and pass through Towns and Villages, and never hear the least complaint for want, nor hear any ask him for a Farthing. Here one may lodge in the Fields and Woods, travel from one end of the Countrey to another, with as much security as if he were lock’d within his own Chamber: And if one chance to meet with an _Indian_ Town, they shall give him the best Entertainment they have, and upon his desire direct him on his Way. But that which adds happiness to all the rest, is the healthfulness of the Place, where many People in twenty years time never know what Sickness is; where they look upon it as a great Mortality, if two or three die out of a Town in a years time. Besides the sweetness of the Air, the Countrey it self sends forth such a fragrant smell, that it may be perceiv’d at Sea before they can make the Land: No evil Fog or Vapor doth any sooner appear, but a North-West or Westerly Wind immediately dissolves it, and drives it away. Moreover, you shall scarce see a House, but the South-side is begirt with Hives of Bees, which increase after an incredible manner: So that if there be any terrestrial _Canaan_, ’tis surely here, where the Land floweth with Milk and Honey.” [Illustration: Noua TERRÆ-MARIÆ, tabula] [Illustration] A NEW DESCRIPTION OF MARY-LAND. SECT. III. Before We proceed to the Description of this Countrey, it will be first requisite to relate the true occasion and means, whereby this part of _America_ came to be erected into a Province, and call’d _Mary-land_. [Sidenote: The situation.] In the Year of our Lord 1631. _George_ Lord _Baltemore_ obtain’d of King _Charles_ the First, of _Great Brittain, &c._ a Grant of that part of _America_, (first discover’d by the _English_) which lies between the Degrees of thirty seven and fifty Minutes, or thereabouts, and forty of Northerly Latitude; which is bounded on the South by _Virginia_; on the North, by _New England_, and _New Jersey_, part of _New York_, lying on the East side of _Delaware Bay_; on the East, by the Ocean; and on the West, by that part of the Continent which lies in the Longitude of the first Fountains of the River call’d _Patomeck_. In pursuance of this Grant to his said Lordship, a Bill was prepar’d, and brought to His Majesty to Sign, who first ask’d his Lordship, what he should call it, there being a Blank in the Bill designedly left for the Name, which his Lordship intended should have been _Crescentia_; but his Lordship leaving it to His Majesty to give it a Name, the King propos’d to have it call’d _Terra-Mariæ_, in _English_, _Mary-land_, in honor of his Queen, whose Name was _Mary_; which was concluded on, and inserted into the Bill, which the King then Sign’d; and thereby the said Tract of Land was erected into a Province by that Name. His Lordship somewhat delaying the speedy passing of it under the Great Seal of _England_, dy’d in the _interim_, before the said Patent was perfected; whereupon a Patent of the said Province was shortly afterwards pass’d to his Son and Heir, (who was Christen’d by the Name of _Cœcil_, but afterwards confirm’d by the Name of _Cœcilius_,) the now Lord _Baltemore_, under the Great Seal of _England_, bearing Date _June 20. 1632._ in the eighth Year of His said Majesties Reign, with all Royal Jurisdictions and Prerogatives, both Military and Civil in the said Province, as Power to Enact Laws, Power of pardoning all manner of Offences, Power to confer Honors, _&c._ to be held of His said Majesty, His Heirs and Successors, Kings of _England_ in common Soccage, as of His Majesties Honor of _Windsor_ in the County of _Berks_ in _England_; yielding and paying yearly for the same to His Majesty and to His Heirs and Successors for ever, two _Indian_ Arrows of those parts, at the Castle of _Windsor_ aforesaid, on Tuesday in _Easter_ Week, and the fifth part of all Gold and Silver Oar, which shall happen to be found in the said Province. [Sidenote: The Bounds.] “By the said Patent is Granted to his Lordship, his Heirs and Assigns, all that part of a _Peninsula_, lying in the parts of _America_, between the Ocean on the East, and the Bay of _Chesapeack_ on the West; and divided from the other part thereof by a right Line drawn from the Promontory, or _Cape_ of Land call’d _Watkin’s-Point_, situate in the aforesaid Bay, near the River of _Wigcho_ on the West, unto the main Ocean on the East, and between that bound on the South, unto that part of _Delaware Bay_ on the North, which lies under the fortieth Degree of Northerly Latitude from the Equinoctial, where _New England_ ends; and all that Tract of Land between the bounds aforesaid, that is to say, passing from the aforesaid Bay call’d _Delaware Bay_, in a right Line by the Degree aforesaid, unto the true _Meridian_ of the first Fountains of the River of _Patomeck_; and from thence stretching towards the South, unto the furthest Bank of the said River, and following the West and South side thereof, unto a certain place call’d _Cinquack_, near the Mouth of the said River, where it falls into the Bay of _Chesapeack_, and from thence by a streight Line unto the aforesaid Promontory, or place call’d _Watkin’s-Point_, which lies in thirty seven Degrees and fifty Minutes, or thereabouts, of Northern Latitude.” [Sidenote: Title.] By this Patent his Lordship and his Heirs and Assigns are Created the true and absolute Lords and Proprietaries of the said Province, saving the Allegiance and Soveraign Dominion due to His Majesty, His Heirs, and Successors; so that he hath thereby a Soveraignty Granted to him and his Heirs, dependant upon the Soveraignty of the Crown of _England_. [Sidenote: The first Seating.] His Lordship, in the Year 1633. sent his second Brother Mr. _Leonard Calvert_, and his third Brother Mr. _George Calvert_, with divers other Gentlemen of Quality, and Servants to the number of two hundred Persons at least, to settle a Plantation there; who set Sail from the _Cowes_ in the _Isle of Wight_ in _England_, on _Novemb. 22._ in the same Year; having made some stay by the way, at the _Barbadoes_ and _St. Christophers_ in _America_, they arriv’d at _Point Comfort_ in _Virginia_, on _February 24._ following; from whence shortly after they Sail’d up the Bay of _Chesapeack_, and _Patomeck_ River. And having review’d the Country, and given Names to several places, they pitch’d upon a Town of the _Indians_ for their first Seat, call’d _Yoacomaco_, (now Saint _Maries_) which the then Governor Mr. _Leonard Calvert_, freely Purchas’d of the Natives there, for the Lord Proprietaries use, with Commodities brought from _England_. That which facilitated the Treaty and Purchase of the said place from the _Indians_, was a resolution which those _Indians_ had then before taken, to remove higher into the Countrey where it was more Populous, for fear of the _Sansquehanocks_, (another, and more Warlike People of the _Indians_, who were their too near Neighbors, and inhabit between the Bays of _Chesapeack_ and _Delaware_) there being then actual Wars between them, insomuch, that many of them were gone thither before the _English_ arriv’d: And it hath been the general practice of his Lordship, and those who were employ’d by him in the Planting of the said Province, rather to purchase the Natives Interest, (who will agree for the same at easie rates) than to take from them by force, that which they seem to call their Right and Inheritance, to the end all Disputes might be remov’d touching the forcible Incroachment upon others, against the Laws of Nature or Nations. [Sidenote: The number of Inhabitants.] Thus this Province at the vast Charges, and by the unweary’d Industry and endeavor of the present Lord _Baltemore_, the now absolute Lord and Proprietary of the same was at first Planted, and hath since been supply’d with People and other Necessaries, so effectually, that in this present Year 1671. the number of _English_ there amounts to fifteen or twenty thousand Inhabitants, for whose Encouragement there is a Fundamental Law establish’d there by his Lordship, whereby _Liberty of Conscience_ is allow’d to all that Profess to believe in _Jesus Christ_; so that no Man who is a _Christian_ is in danger of being disturb’d for his Religion; and all Persons being satisfi’d touching his Lordships Right, as Granted by his Superior Soveraign, the King of _Great Brittain_, and possess’d by the consent and agreement of the first _Indian_ Owners, every Person who repaireth thither, intending to become an Inhabitant, finds himself secure, as well in the quiet enjoyment of his Property, as of his Conscience. Mr. _Charles Calvert_, his Lordships onely Son and Heir, was in the Year 1661. sent thither by his Lordship to Govern this Province and People, who hath hitherto continu’d that Charge of his Lordships Lieutenant there, to the general satisfaction and encouragement of all Persons under his Government, or otherwise concern’d in the Province. The precedent Discourse having given you a short Description of this Province from its Infancy to this day, together with an account of his Lordships Patent and Right, by which he holds the same; we will here speak something of the Nature of the Countrey in general, and of the Commodities that are either naturally afforded there, or may be procur’d by Industry. The Climate is very healthful, and agreeable with _English_ Constitutions; but New-comers have most of them heretofore had the first year of their Planting there in _July_ and _August_, a Sickness, which is call’d there _A Seasoning_, but is indeed no other than an Ague, with cold and hot Fits, whereof many heretofore us’d to die for want of good Medicines, and accommodations of Diet and Lodging, and by drinking too much Wine and Strong-waters; though many, even in those times, who were more temperate, and that were better accommodated, never had any _Seasonings_ at all; but of late years, since the Countrey hath been more open’d by the cutting down of the Woods, and that there is more plenty of _English_ Diet, there are very few die of those Agues, and many have no _Seasonings_ at all, especially those that live in the higher parts of the Country, and not near to the Marshes and Salt-water. In Summer, the heats are equal to those of _Spain_, but qualifi’d daily about Noon, at that time of the Year, either with some gentle Breezes, or small Showres of Rain: In Winter there is Frost and Snow, and sometimes it is extremely cold, insomuch, that the Rivers and the Northerly part of the Bay of _Chesapeack_ are Frozen, but it seldom lasts long; and some Winters are so warm, that People have gone in half Shirts and Drawers only at _Christmas_: But in the Spring and Autumn, (_viz._) in _March_, _April_, and _May_, _September_, _October_, and _November_, there is generally most pleasant temperate Weather: The Winds there are variable, from the South comes Heat, Gusts, and Thunder; from the North or North-West, cold Weather; and in Winter, Frost and Snow; from the East and South-East, Rain. The Soyl is very fertile, and furnish’d with many pleasant and commodious Rivers, Creeks, and Harbors. The Country is generally plain and even, and yet distinguish’d with some pretty small Hills and Risings, with variety of Springs and Rivulets: The Woods are for the most part free from Underwood, so that a Man may Travel or Hunt for his Recreation. The ordinary entrance by Sea into this Country is between two _Capes_, distant each from the other about seven or eight Leagues; the South _Cape_ is call’d _Cape Henry_; the North, _Cape Charles_; within the _Capes_ you enter into a fair _Bay_, Navigable for at least two hundred Miles, and is call’d _Chesapeack Bay_, stretching it self Northerly through the heart of the Countrey, which adds much to its Fame and Value: Into this Bay fall many stately Rivers, the chief whereof is _Patomeck_, which is Navigable for at least a hundred and forty Miles: The next Northward, is _Patuxent_, at its entrance distant from the other about twenty Miles, a River yielding great Profit as well as Pleasure to the Inhabitants; and by reason of the Islands and other places of advantage that may Command it, both fit for Habitation and Defence: Passing hence to the Head of the Bay, you meet with several pleasant and commodious Rivers, which for brevity we here omit to give any particular account of: On the Eastern Shore are several commodious Rivers, Harbors, Creeks, and Islands; to the Northward whereof you enter into another fair Bay, call’d _Delaware Bay_; wide at its entrance about eight Leagues, and into which falls a very fair Navigable River. [Sidenote: The natural Commodities of the Countrey.] This Countrey yields the Inhabitants many excellent things for Physick and Chyrurgery; they have several Herbs and Roots which are great Preservatives against Poyson, as _Snake-Root_, which presently cures the bitings of the _Rattle-Snake_, which are very Venomous, and are bred in the Countrey; others that cure all manner of Wounds; they have _Saxafras_, _Sarsaparilla_, Gums and Balsoms, which Experience (the Mother of Art) hath taught them the perfect use of. An _Indian_ seeing one of the _English_ much troubled with the Tooth-ach, fetch’d a Root out of a Tree, which apply’d to the Tooth, gave ease immediately to the Party; other Roots they have fit for Dyers, wherewith the _Indians_ Paint themselves as _Pacoone_ (a deep red,) _&c._ The Timber of these parts is good and useful for Building of Houses and Ships, the white Oak for Pipe-staves, the red for Wainscot; there is likewise black Wall-Nut, Cedar, Pine, and Cypress, Chest-nut, Elme, Ash, and Popelar, all which are for Building and Husbandry: Fruit-trees, as Mulberries, _Persimons_, with several kind of Plumbs, and Vines in great abundance. Of Strawberries there is plenty, which are ripe in _April_, Mulberries in _May_, Rasberries in _June_, and the _Maracok_, which is something like a Lemon, is ripe in _August_. In Spring time there are several sorts of Herbs, as Corn-sallet, Violets, Sorrel, Purslane, and others which are of great use to the _English_ there. In the upper parts of the Countrey are _Buffeloes_, _Elks_, _Tygers_, _Bears_, _Wolves_, and great store of Deer; as also Beavers, Foxes, Otters, Flying-Squirils, _Racoons_, and many other sorts of Beasts. Of Birds, there is the Eagle, Goshawk, Falcon, _Lanner_, Sparrow-hawk, and _Marlin_; also wild Turkies in great abundance, whereof many weigh fifty Pounds in weight and upwards, and of Partridge great plenty: There are likewise sundry sorts of singing Birds, whereof one is call’d a _Mock-Bird_, because it imitates all other Birds; some are red, which sing like Nightingales, but much louder; others black and yellow, which last sort excels more in Beauty than tune, and is by the _English_ there call’d the _Baltemore-Bird_, because the Colours of his Lordships Coat of Arms are black and yellow: Others there are that resemble most of the Birds in _England_, but not of the same kind, for which we have no names: In Winter there are great plenty of Swans, Cranes, Geese, Herons, Duck, Teal, Widgeons, Brants, and Pidgeons, with other sorts, whereof there are none in _England_. The Sea, the Bays of _Chesapeack_ and _Delaware_, and generally all the Rivers, do abound with Fish of several sorts; as Whales, Sturgeon, Thorn-back, Grampuses, Porpuses, Mullets, Trouts, Soules, Plaice, Mackrel, Perch, Eels, Roach, Shadd, Herrings, Crabs, Oysters, Cockles, Mussels, _&c._ but above all these, the Fish whereof there are none in _England_, as _Drums_, _Sheeps-head_, _Cat-fish_, _&c._ are best, except Sturgeon, which are there found in great abundance, not inferior to any in _Europe_ for largeness and goodness. The Minerals may in time prove of very great consequence, though no rich Mines are yet discover’d there; but there is Oar of several sorts, _viz._ of Tin, Iron, and Copper, whereof several trials have been made by curious Persons there with good success. The Soyl is generally very rich, the Mould in many places black and rank, insomuch, that it is necessary to Plant it first with _Indian_ Corn, Tobacco, or Hemp, before it is fit for _English_ Grain; under that is found good _Loam_, whereof has been made as good Brick as any in _Europe_: There are store of Marsh-grounds for Meadows; great plenty of Marle, both blue and white; excellent Clay for Pots and Tiles: To conclude, there is nothing that can be reasonably expected, in a place lying in the same Latitude with this, but what is either there found naturally, or may be procur’d by Industry, as Oranges, Lemons, and Olives, _&c._ [Sidenote: Commodities which are, or may be procur’d by industry.] We need not here mention _Indian_ Corn, (call’d _Mayz_) Pease and Beans of several sorts, being the peculiar products Planted by the _Indians_ of that part of _America_. All sorts of _English_ Grain are now common there, and yield a great encrease; as Wheat, Rye, Barley, Oats, Pease, Beans, _&c._ good Beer of Wheat or Barley Malt, after the _English_ Mode, is made, even in the meanest Families there; Some drink Beer of _Indian_ Corn, others of the Stalks thereof, or of the Chipps of the _Pockykerry_-Tree, all which make a sort of fresh and pleasant Drink; but the general Diet of the Country is now _English_, as most agreeable to their Constitutions. There are few able Planters there at present, but what are plentifully supply’d with all sorts of Summer and Winter Fruits; as also of Roots and Herbs, of all sorts out of their Gardens and Orchards, which they have Planted for their Profit as well as Pleasure: They have Pears, Apples, Plumbs, Peaches, _&c._ in great abundance, and as good as those of _Italy_; so are their Mellons, Pumpions, Apricocks, Cherries, Figgs, Pomegranates, _&c._ In fine, there is scarce any Fruit or Root that grows in _England_, _France_, _Spain_, or _Italy_, but hath been try’d there, and prospers well. You may have there also Hemp, Flax, Pitch, and Tar, with little labor; the Soyl is apt for Hops, Rape-seed, Annice-seed, Woad, Madder, Saffron, _&c._ there may be had Silk-worms, the Country being stor’d with Mulberry-trees, and the superfluity of the Wood will produce Pot-ashes. There is a great quantity of Syder made there at present, and as good as in any other Countrey; good Perry and Quince-drink is there likewise made in great plenty: The Ground doth naturally bring forth Vines in great quantities, the quality whereof being something corrected by Industry, (as there have been several trials thereof already made there) may no doubt produce good Wine, to the great encouragement and advantage of the Undertakers. Brave Ships may be built there with little charge, Clab-board, Wainscot, Pipe-staves, and Masts for Ships, the Woods will afford plentifully; some small Vessels have been already built there: In fine, Beef, Furrs, Hides, Butter, Cheese, Pork, and Bacon, to Transport to other Countreys, are no small Commodities, which by Industry, are, and may be had there in great plenty, the _English_ being already plentifully stock’d with all sorts of Cattel and Horses; and were there no other Staple-Commodities to be hop’d for, but Silk and Linnen (the materials of which apparently will grow there) it were sufficient to enrich the Inhabitants. But the general Trade of _Mary-land_ at present depends chiefly upon Tobacco, it being the Planters greatest concern and study to store himself betimes with that Commodity, wherewith he buys and sells, and after which Standard all other Commodities receive their Price there; they have of late vented such quantities of that and other Commodities, that a hundred Sail of Ships from _England_, _Barbadoes_, and other _English_ Plantations, have been usually known to Trade thither in one Year; insomuch, that by Custom and Excize paid in _England_ for Tobacco and other Commodities Imported from thence, _Mary-land_ alone at this present, hath by his Lordships vast Expence, Industry, and Hazard for many years, without any charge to the Crown, improv’d His Majesties, the King of _Englands_ Revenues, to the value of Forty thousand Pounds _Sterl. per annum_ at least. The general way of Traffick and Commerce there is chiefly by Barter, or Exchange of one Commodity for another; yet there wants not, besides _English_ and other foraign Coyns, some of his Lordships own Coyn, as Groats, Sixpences, and Shillings, which his Lordship at his own Charge caus’d to be Coyn’d and dispers’d throughout that Province; ’tis equal in fineness of Silver to _English Sterling_, being of the same Standard, but of somewhat less weight, and hath on the one side his Lordships Coat of Arms stamp’d, with this Motto circumscrib’d, _Crescite & Multiplicamini_, and on the other side his Lordships Effigies, circumscrib’d thus, _Cæcilius Dominus Terræ-Mariæ_, &c. [Sidenote: The Government.] The Order of Government and settled Laws of this Province, is by the Prudence and endeavor of the present Lord Proprietary, brought to great Perfection; and as his Dominion there is absolute (as may appear by the Charter aforemention’d) so all Patents, Warrants, Writs, Licenses, Actions Criminal, _&c._ Issue forth there in his Name: Wars, Peace, Courts, Offices, _&c._ all in his Name made, held, and appointed. Laws are there Enacted by him, with the advice and consent of the General Assembly, which consists of two Estates, namely, the first is made up by the Chancellor, Secretary, and others of his Lordships Privy-Council, and such Lords of Mannors, and others as shall be call’d by particular Writs for that purpose, to be Issu’d by his Lordship: The second Estate consists of the Deputies and Delegates of the respective Counties of the said Province, elected and chosen by the free voice and approbation of the Free-men of the laid respective Counties. The Names of the Governor and Council in this present Year 1671. are as followeth, Mr. _Charles Calvert_, his Lordships Son and Heir, Governor; Mr. _Philip Calvert_, his Lordships Brother, Chancellor; Sir _William Talbot_ Baronet, his Lordships Nephew, Secretary; Mr. _William Calvert_, his Lordships Nephew, Muster-Master-General; Mr. _Jerome White_, Surveyor-General; Mr. _Baker Brooke_, his Lordships Nephew; Mr. _Edward Lloyd_, Mr. _Henry Coursey_, Mr. _Thomas Trueman_, Major _Edward Fits-Herbert_, _Samuel Chew Esq._ His Lordship, or his Lieutenant there for the time being, upon due occasion, Convenes, Prorogues, and Dissolves this Assembly; but whatsoever is by his Lordships Lieutenant there, with the consent of both the said Estates Enacted, is there of the same Force and Nature as an Act of Parliament is in _England_, until his Lordship declares his dis-assent; but such Laws as his Lordship doth assent unto, are not afterwards to be Alter’d or Repeal’d but by his Lordship, with the consent of both the said Estates. Their chief Court of Judicature is held at St. _Maries_ Quarterly every Year, to which all Persons concern’d resort for Justice, and is call’d _The Provincial Court_, whereof the Governor and Council are Judges: To the Court there doth belong several sworn Attorneys, who constantly are present there, and act both as Barristers and Attorneys; there are likewise chief Clerks, Bayliffs, and other Officers, which duly attend the Court in their respective places. The Province is divided at present, so far as it is inhabited by _English_, into Counties, whereof there be ten, _viz._ St. _Maries_, _Charles_, _Calvert_, _Anne Arandel_, and _Baltemore_ Counties, which first five lie on the West side of the Bay of _Chesapeack_; on the Eastern side whereof, commonly call’d _The Eastern-Shore_, lies _Sommerset_, _Dorchester_, _Talbot_, _Cæcil_, and _Kent Counties_, which last is an Island lying near the Eastern-shore of the said Bay. Besides the Provincial Court aforenam’d, there are other inferior Courts, appointed to be held in every one of the Counties six times in the year, for the dispatch of all Causes, not relating to Life or Member, and not exceeding the value of three thousand weight of Tobacco; the decision of all other Causes being reserv’d to the Provincial or higher Court before-mention’d, and there lies Appeals from the County-Courts, to the Provincial Court. There are Sheriffs, Justices of the Peace, and other Officers appointed by the Lord and Proprietary, or his Lordships Lieutenant for the time being, in the said respective Counties; and without four Justices, of which one to be of the _Quorum_, none of the said respective County-Courts can be held; any of his Lordships Privy Council may sit as Judge, in any of the said County-Courts, by vertue of his place. These Courts are appointed to be held at convenient Houses in the said Counties, which commonly are not far distant from some Inn, or other House of Entertainment, for accommodation of Strangers; one of the said six County Courts in each County is held for settling of Widows and Orphans Estates. There are Foundations laid of Towns, more or less in each County, according to his Lordships Proclamation, to that effect Issu’d forth in the year 1668. In _Calvert County_, about the River of _Patuxent_, and the adjacent Cliffs, are the Bounds of three Towns laid out, one over against _Point Patience_, call’d _Harvy Town_, another in _Battel-Creek_, call’d _Calverton_, and a third upon the Cliffs, call’d _Herrington_, and Houses already built in them, all uniform, and pleasant with Streets, and Keys on the Water side. In the County of St. _Maries_, on the East side of St. _Georges_ River, is the principal and original Seat of this Province, where the general Assembly, and Provincial Courts are held, and is call’d St. _Maries_, being erected into a City by that Name, where divers Houses are already built: The Governor hath a House there call’d St. _John_’s; the Chancellor Mr. _Philip Calvert_, his Lordships Brother, hath another, and in this place is built and kept the Secretaries Office, where all the Records are kept, all Process, Grants, for Lands, Probates of Wills, Letters of Administration are issu’d out: the Plat of a Fort and Prison is lately laid there, upon a point of Land, term’d _Windmil-Point_, from a Windmil which formerly stood there, the situation is proper, for that it commands the breadth of the said River of Saint _Georges_; so that when it is finish’d, all Shipping may safely Ride before the Town, without the least fear of any sudden Assault, or Attempt of Pirats or other Enemy whatsoever. This City has formerly been the usual place of abode for his Lordships Lieutenants, and their Retinue; but of late years the present Governor, Mr. _Charles Calvert_, hath built himself a fair House of Brick and Timber, with all Out-houses, and other Offices thereto belonging, at a place call’d _Mattapany_, near the River of _Patuxent_ before-mention’d, where he and his Family reside, being a pleasant, healthful, and commodious Seat, about eight Miles by Land distant from St. _Maries_. [Sidenote: Of the _Indians_ in _Mary-land_.] The _Indians_ in _Mary-land_ are a People generally of streight, able, and well proportion’d Bodies, something exceeding the ordinary pitch of the _English_, their Complexion Swarthy, their Hair naturally long and black, without Curle, which generally they cut after some strange Fantastical Mode; nay, sometimes they Dye it with red and other preposterous Colours: They Liquor their Skins with Bears Grease, and other Oyls, which renders them more tawny, and less apt to receive injury from the Weather: They are subtile from their Infancy, and prone to learn any thing their Fancy inclines them to, in other things slothful. There are as many distinct Nations among them as there are _Indian_ Towns, (which are like Countrey-Villages in _England_, but not so good Houses) dispers’d throughout the Province: Each Town hath its King (by them term’d _Werowance_) and every forty or fifty Miles distance differs much from its Neighbors in Speech and Disposition: The _Sasquahanocks_, though but few in number, yet much exceed the rest in Valor, and Fidelity to the _English_; the rest being generally of a more Treacherous Spirit, and not so stout, and the number of the _English_ do already exceed all the _Indians_ in the Province. The _Werowance_ is assisted by Councellors, call’d _Wisoes_, who are commonly of the same Family, and are chosen at the pleasure of the _Werowance_: They have Captains in time of War which they term _Cockorooses_. Most of their Governments are Monarchical, (except the _Sasquahanocks_, which is a Re-publick) but for succession they have a peculiar Custom, that the Issue of the Males never succeed, but the Issue-Male of the Female succeed in Government, as the surer side: They all submit to, and are protected by the Lord Proprietaries Government; and in case of any Assault or Murder, committed on any _English_, the Party offending is try’d by the Laws of the Province; and in case of any new Election of King or Emperor among them, they present the Person so Elected to the Governor for the time being, who as he sees cause, either alters or confirms their Choice. In the Year 1663. at the _Indians_ Request, the present Governor Mr. _Charles Calvert_, and some others of his Lordships Privy-Council there, went to _Pascatoway_, in this Province, to be present at the Election of a new Emperor for that Nation: They presented a Youth nam’d _Nattawasso_, and humbly Requested to have him confirm’d Emperor of _Pascatoway_, by the Name of _Wahocasso_; which after some charge given them in general, to be good and faithful Subjects to him, the Governor accordingly did, and receiv’d him into his Protection. They pay great Respect and Obedience to their Kings and Superiors, whose Commands they immediately Execute, though with an apparent hazard of their Lives. The Mens chief employment is Hunting, and the Wars, in both which they commonly use Bowes and Arrows; some of late have Guns and other Weapons, by a private Trade with some _English_ Neighboring Plantations: They are excellent Marks-men, it being the onely thing they breed their Youth to: The Women Plant and look after the Corn, make their Bread, and dress what Provisions their Husbands bring home. Their way of Marriage is by agreement with the Womens Parents or Friends, who for a certain Sum of their Money, or other Goods, deliver her to the Man at a day appointed, which is commonly spent in jollity. [Sidenote: Their Money.] There are two sorts of _Indian_ Money, _Wampompeage_ and _Roanoack_, these serve among them as Gold and Silver do in _Europe_, both are made of Fish-shells, which they string like Beads; _Wampompeage_ is the largest Bead, sixty whereof countervails an Arms length of _Roanoack_, which is valued at six Pence _Sterling_; with this they purchase Commodities of the _English_, as Trading-Cloth, _&c._ of which they make themselves Mantles, which is something shaggy, and is call’d _Dutch Duffels_; this is their Winter Habit; in Summer they onely wear a narrow slip of the same to cover those parts, which natural modesty teaches them to conceal; the better sort have Stockings made thereof, and pieces of Deer-Skin, stitch’d together about their Feet in stead of Shooes: The Womens Apparel is the same, but those of the best Quality among them bedeck themselves with _Wampompeage_ or _Roanoack_, or some other toy. [Sidenote: Manner of habitation.] Their Houses are rais’d about the height of a large Arbor, and cover’d with Barks of Trees very tite, in the middle whereof is the Fire-place, they lie generally upon Mats of their own making, plac’d round the Fire, a Woodden-bowl or two, an Earthen Pot, and a Mortar and Pestle, is their chiefest Houshold-stuff; he that hath his Bowe and Arrows, or Gun, a Hatchet, and a _Canoo_, (a term they use for Boats) is in their minds rarely well provided for; each House contains a distinct Family, each Family hath its peculiar Field about the Town, where they Plant their Corn, and other sorts of Grain afore-mention’d. [Sidenote: Civility to the _English_.] They are courteous to the _English_, if they chance to see any of them coming towards their Houses, they immediately meet him half-way, conduct him in, and bid him welcome with the best Cates they have: The _English_ giving them in like manner civil Entertainment, according to their Quality. The _Werowance_ of _Patuxent_ having been Treated for some days at St. _Maries_, by the then Governor, Mr. _Leonard Calvert_, his Lordships Brother, at his first coming thither to settle that Colony, took his leave of him with this Expression, _I love the_ English _so well, that if they should go about to kill me, if I had so much breath as to speak, I would Command my People not to revenge my death; for I know they would not do such a thing, except it were through my own default._ In Affairs of concern, they are very considerate, and use few words in declaring their intentions; for at Mr. _Leonard Calverts_ first arrival there, the _Werowance_ of _Pascatoway_ being ask’d by him, _Whether he would be content, that the_ English _should sit down in his Countrey?_ return’d this answer, _That he would not bid him go, neither would he bid him stay, but that he might use his own discretion._ These were their expressions to the Governor at his first entrance into _Mary-land_, whom then they were jealous of, whether he might prove a Friend or a Neighbor, but by his discreet Demeanor towards them at first, and friendly usage of them afterwards, they are now become, not only civil, but serviceable to the _English_ there upon all occasions. The _Indians_ of the Eastern shore are most numerous, and were formerly very refractory, whom Mr. _Leonard Calvert_ some few years after his first settling the Colony, was forc’d to reduce, and of late the Emperor of _Nanticoke_, and his Men were deservedly defeated by the present Governor, Mr. _Charles Calvert_, who reduc’d him about the year 1668. which has since tam’d the ruder sort of the neighboring _Indians_, who now by experience, find it better to submit and be protected by the Lord Proprietaries Government, than to make any vain attempt against his Power. These People live under no Law, but that of Nature and Reason, which notwithstanding leads them to the acknowledgement of a Deity, whom they own to be the Giver of all good things, wherewith their Life is maintain’d, and to him they Sacrifice the first Fruits of the Earth, and of that which they acquire by Hunting and Fishing: The Sacrifice is perform’d by their Priests, who are commonly ancient Men, and profess themselves Conjurers; they first make a Speech to their God, then burn part, and eat and distribute the rest among them that are present; until this Ceremony be ended, they will not touch one bit thereof; they hold the Immortality of the Soul, and that there is a place of Joy, and another of Torment after Death, prepar’d for every one according to their Merits. They bury their Dead with strange expressions of Sorrow (the better sort upon a Scaffold, erected for that end) whom they leave cover’d with Mats, and return when his flesh is consum’d to Interr his Bones; the common sort are committed to the Earth without that Ceremony; but they never omit to bury some part of their Wealth, Arms, and Houshold-stuff with the Corps. SECT. IV. Virginia. [Sidenote: Situation of _Virginia_.] [Sidenote: First Discovery.] The most Southerly part of _Virginia_ (for all that Tract of Land, reaching from _Norumbega_ to _Florida_, and containing _New-England_, _New-York_, _Mary-land_, and this part we are now about to Treat of, was by Sir _Walter Rawleigh_ term’d _Virginia_, in Honor of our Virgin-Queen _Elizabeth_) lies between _Mary-land_, which it hath on the North, and _Carolina_, which it hath on the South, from thirty six, to near thirty eight Degrees of Northern Latitude; and with the rest of those Countries which were comprehended under the same Denomination, was by the Encouragement, and at the Expence of the said Sir _Walter Rawleigh_, first Discover’d (as some say) by Captain _Francis Drake_, for his many notable and bold Exploits, afterwards Knighted by the Queen: But upon examination we find little reason to ascribe the first Discovery thereof to Sir _Francis Drake_, whose chief performances, from the time he first made himself Eminent at Sea, were against the _Spaniards_, and for the most part in the _Spanish-Indies_; as his taking of _Nombre de Dios_, and _Vinta Cruz_, with an infinite mass of Treasure; his taking of _Santo Domingo_ in _Hispaniola_, and of _Carthagena_ in _Castella Anna_; and that which seems to have given occasion of attributing to him the first Discovery of these parts, was his touching upon the North part of the Isle of _California_, where being nobly Entertain’d by _Hioh_, a King of that Countrey, and having a Surrendry thereof made to him, in behalf of the Queen of _England_, he upon a Pillar erected, Inscrib’d the Arms of _England_, with the Queens Name and his own, and call’d the place _Nova Albion_: Certain indeed it is, that Sir _Walter Rawleigh_ was the first Promoter of this Discovery; for, after Mr. _Martin Forbisher_ had been sent by Queen _Elizabeth_ to search for the North-West Passage, which was in the year 1576. and for which he also was by the Queen advanc’d to Knight-hood, and nobly rewarded; and Sir _Humphrey Gilbert_ obtaining the Queens Letters Patents, for attempting a Plantation, had reach’d _New-found-land_ (though perishing in his return) he upon these Relations and Inducements undertook by others (for his employments would not permit him to go in Person) to gain Discoveries to the Southward; and accordingly in the year of our Lord 1584. obtain’d a Commission from the Queen, to discover and Plant new Lands in _America_, not actually possess’d by any _Christians_, who, with the assistance of Sir _Richard Greenvil_, and others, provided two small Barques, under the Command of Captain _Philip Amidas_, and Captain _Arthur Barlow_, who setting Sail the 27. of _April_, fell the 2^d of _July_ following with the Coast of _Florida_, and made Discovery of the Isle of _Wokokon_, _Roanoack_, and the Continent of _Wingandacoa_, which they left; and arriving in _England_ about the midst of _September_ following, Her Majesty upon the relation of their Discoveries, was pleas’d to call this Countrey _Virginia_. [Illustration: NOVA VIRGINIÆ TABULA] _April 9. 1585._ Sir _Richard Greenvil_, with seven Sail, and several Gentlemen, left _Plymouth_; and on _May 26._ Anchor’d at _Wokokon_, but made their first Seat at _Roanoack_ on _August 17._ following, which lies in thirty six Degrees of Northerly Latitude, or thereabouts, where they continu’d till _June 1586._ during which time they made several Discoveries in the Continent and adjacent Islands; and being endanger’d by the treachery of the Salvages, return’d for _England_, and Landed at _Portsmouth_ on _July 27._ following. Sir _Walter Rawleigh_ and his Associates, in the year 1586. sent a Ship to relieve that Colony, which had deserted the Countrey some while before, and were all return’d for _England_ as is before-mention’d. Some few days after they were gone, Sir _Richard Greenvil_, with three Ships, arriv’d at the Plantation at _Roanoack_, which he found deserted, and leaving fifty Men thereto keep Possession of that Countrey, return’d for _England_. The year following, Mr. _John White_, with three Ships, came to search for the fifty _English_ at _Roanoack_, but found them not, they having been set upon by the Natives, and dispers’d so, as no News could be heard of them, and in their room left a hundred and fifty more to continue that Plantation. In _August 1589._ Mr. _John White_ went thither again, to search for the last Colony which he had left there; but not finding them, return’d for _England_ in _Septemb. 6. 1590._ This ill Success made all further Discoveries to be laid aside, till Captain _Gosnol_ on _March 26. 1602._ set Sail from _Dartmouth_, and on _May 11._ following, made Land at a place, where some _Biscaners_, as he guess’d by the Natives information, had formerly fish’d, being about the Latitude of forty eight Degrees Northerly Latitude; from hence putting to Sea, he made Discovery of an Island which he call’d _Marthas Vineyard_, and shortly after of _Elizabeth_’s Isle, and so return’d for _England_, _June 18._ following. In the Year 1603. the City of _Bristol_ rais’d a Stock, and furnish’d out two Barques for Discovery, under the Command of Captain _Martin Pring_, who about _June 7._ fell with the North of _Virginia_ in the three and fortieth Degree, found plenty of good Fish, nam’d a place _Whitson-Bay_, and so return’d. In the Year 1605. the Right Honorable _Thomas Arundel_ the first, Baron of _Warder_, and Count of the _Roman_ Empire, set out Captain _George Waymouth_, with twenty nine Sea-men, and necessary Provisions, to make what Discoveries he could; who by contrary Winds, fell Northward about one and forty Degrees and twenty Minutes of Northerly Latitude, where they found plenty of good Fish; and Sailing further, discover’d an Island, where they nam’d a Harbor, _Pentecost-Harbor_; and on _July 18._ following, came back for _England_. In the Year 1606. by the sollicitation of Captain _Gosnol_, and several Gentlemen, a Commission was granted by King _James_ of _Great Brittain_, _&c._ for establishing a Council, to direct those new Discoveries; Captain _Newport_ (a well practic’d Marriner) was intrusted with the Transportation of the Adventurers in two Ships, and a Pinace, who on _Decemb. 19. 1606._ set Sail from _Black-wall_, and were by Storm, contrary to expectation, cast upon the first Land, which they call’d _Cape Henry_, at the Mouth of the Bay of _Chesapeack_, lying in thirty seven Degrees, or thereabouts, of Northerly Latitude: Here their Orders were open’d and read, and eight declar’d of the Council, and impower’d to chose a President for a year, who with the Council should Govern that Colony: Till _May 13._ they sought a place to Plant in, Mr. _Winkfield_ was chose the first President, who caus’d a Fort to be rais’d at _Powhatan_, now call’d _James-Town_: In _June_ following, Captain _Newport_ return’d for _England_, leaving a hundred Men behind him; since which time they have been sufficiently supply’d from _England_, and by the indefatigable Industry and Courage of Captain _John Smith_, (one of the Council at that time, and afterward President of the Colony) they made several Discoveries on the Eastern shore, and up to the Head of the Bay of _Chesapeack_, and of the principal Rivers which fall into the said Bay. _Virginia_ being thus Discover’d and Planted, King _James_ by his Letters Patent bearing Date _April 10._ in the fourth year of his Reign, 1607. Granted Licence to Sir _Thomas Gates_, Sir _George Summers_, and others, to divide themselves into two several Colonies, for the more speedy Planting of that Countrey, then call’d _Virginia_, between the Degrees of thirty four and forty five of North Latitude, that is to say, taken in that large extent, mention’d in the beginning: The first Colony to be undertaken by certain Knights, Gentlemen, and Merchants, in, and about the City of _London_: The second to be undertaken, and advanc’d by certain Knights, Gentlemen, and Merchants, and their Associates, in, or about the City of _Bristol_, _Exon_, _Plymouth_, and other parts. At the first Colonies Request, in the seventh year of the same King, a second Patent was Granted to several Noblemen and Gentlemen, (including Sir _Thomas Gates_, and some of his former Fellow-Patentees) bearing Date _May 23. 1610._ whereby they were made a Corporation, and Body Politique, and stil’d, _The Treasurer, and Company of Adventurers and Planters of the City of_ London, _for the first Colony of_ Virginia: And by this Patent, there was Granted to them, their Successors and Assigns, two hundred Miles to the Southward, from a _Cape_ of Land in _Virginia_, call’d _Point Comfort_; and two hundred Miles to the Northward of the said _Cape_, along the Sea-shore, and into the Land from Sea to Sea. And on _March 12. 1612._ the said King, in the ninth year of his Reign, Grants them a third Patent, of all Islands lying in the Sea, within two hundred Miles of the Shore of that Tract of Land on the Continent, granted to them by the said former Patent, _Jac. 7._ In the Year 1615. Captain _Smith_ procur’d by his Interest at Court, and the King’s Favor, a Recommendation from His Majesty, and divers of the Nobility, to all Cities and Corporations, to Adventure in a standing Lottery, which was erected for the benefit of this Plantation, which was contriv’d in such a manner, that of 100000. Pounds which was to be put in, 50000. onely, or one half was to return to the Adventurers, according as the Prizes fell out; and the other half to be dispos’d of for the Promotion of the Affairs of _Virginia_, in which, though it were three years before it was fully accomplish’d, he had in the end no bad Success. In the eighteenth Year of the said King’s Reign, at the Request of the second Colony, a Patent was Granted to several Noblemen and Gentlemen, of all that Tract of Land lying in the parts of _America_, between the Degrees of forty and forty eight of Northerly Latitude, and into the Land from Sea to Sea, which was call’d by the Patent _New England in America_: For the better Government whereof, one Body-Politick and Corporate was thereby appointed and ordain’d in _Plymouth_, consisting of the said Noblemen, Gentlemen, and others, to the number of forty Persons, by the Name of _The Council establish’d at_ Plymouth _in the County of_ Devon, _for the Planting, Ruling, Ordering, and Governing of_ New England _in_ America. [Sidenote: The Patent of _Virginia_ made void.] The Miscarriages and Misdemeanors of the aforesaid Corporation for the first Colony of _Virginia_, were so many and so great, that His said Majesty was forc’d, in or about _October 1623._ to direct a _Quo Warranto_, for the calling in of that former Patent, which in _Trinity_ Term following was legally Evinc’d, Condemn’d, and made Void, by Judgment in the Court of the then _Kings-Bench_; as also all other Patents, by which the said Corporation claim’d any Interest in _Virginia_. Thus this Corporation of the first Colony of _Virginia_ was dissolv’d, and that Plantation hath been since Govern’d and Dispos’d of by Persons Constituted and Impower’d for that purpose from time to time, by immediate Commissions from the Kings of _England_. [Sidenote: The Patent of _Mary-land_ granted to the Lord _Baltemore_.] In the Year of our Lord 1631. the Right Honorable _George_ Lord _Baltemore_ obtain’d a Grant of King _Charles_ the First of _Great Britain_, _&c._ of part of that Land to the Northward, which is now call’d _Mary-land_; but this Patent of _Mary-land_ was not perfected till 1632. as you may understand more fully by the precedent Discourse of _Mary-land_, which by express words in the said Patent is separated from, and thereby declar’d not to be reputed for the future, any part of _Virginia_. [Sidenote: The Patent _Carolina_ granted to several Noble Persons.] And in the fifteenth Year of the Reign of King _Charles_ the Second of _Great Britain_, _&c._ on _March 24. 1663._ _Edward_ Earl of _Clarendon_, then High-Chancellor of _England_, _George_ Duke of _Albemarle_, _William_, now Earl of _Craven_, _John_ Lord _Berkley_, _Anthony_ Lord _Ashley_, Sir _George Carterett_ Knight and Baronet, Sir _William Berkley_ Knight, and Sir _John Colleton_ Knight and Baronet, obtain’d a Patent from His Majesty, of the Province of _Carolina_, which lies to the Southward of _Virginia_, in which is included some part of that Land which formerly belong’d to the said dissolv’d Company of _Virginia_. So that _Virginia_ at present extendeth it self onely, and is situated between thirty six and thirty seven Degrees and fifty Minutes, or thereabouts, of Northern Latitude, and is bounded on the North, by _Mary-land_; on the South, by _Carolina_; on the East, by the Ocean; and on the West, by the South-Seas. [Sidenote: Rivers of _Virginia_.] The Entrance by Sea into this Countrey is the same with that of _Mary-land_, between _Cape Henry_ and _Cape Charles_, plac’d on each side of the Mouth of the Bay of _Chesapeak_; on the West side whereof you first meet with a pleasant and commodious River call’d _James-River_, about three Miles wide at its Entrance, and Navigable a hundred and fifty. Fourteen Miles from this River Northward lies _York-River_, which is Navigable sixty or seventy Miles, but with Ketches and small Barques thirty or forty Miles farther. Passing hence to the North you discover a third stately River, call’d _Rappahanock_, which is Navigable about a hundred and thirty Miles—from whence following the Shore to the North you enter into _Patomeck-River_, which is already describ’d in the precedent Discourse of _Mary-land_, to which Province this River belongs, whose Southerly Bank gives Bounds to that part of _Virginia_ and _Mary-land_. To these Rivers many other Inland Branches and Rivulets are reduc’d, the chief of which are hereafter specifi’d. [Sidenote: Nature of the Countrey.] The Countrey is generally even, the Soil fruitful, the Climate healthful, and agreeable with _English_ Constitutions, especially since the increase of Inhabitants, and accommodation of good Diet and Lodging, which the first Planters found great want of heretofore. For many years, till of late, most New-comers had the first Year in _July_ and _August_, a Disease which is call’d _A Seasoning_, whereof many died, like to what is mention’d before in the Description of _Mary-land_, though more mortal and common than in _Mary-land_, because _Virginia_ is a lower Countrey, and somewhat hotter, insomuch that formerly divers ill of that Distemper have come purposely from _Virginia_ to _Mary-land_, to recover their Health; but now, since the Countrey is more open and clear from Wood, few die of it, and many have no _Seasonings_ at all. This Countrey affordeth generally all such Roots, Herbs, Gums, and Balsoms, as are express’d before in the Relation of _Mary-land_. [Sidenote: Trees] All sorts of Trees for Building and Husbandry, Fruit-Trees, Vines, _&c._ are found in both Countreys, equal in goodness and quantity, onely in such things as require more Sun, and that may be produc’d by Industry, there may be some little difference, because _Virginia_ is somewhat more to the Southward of _Mary-land_, as in Vines, Oranges, Lemmons, Olives, Silk, _&c._ [Sidenote: Silk-Grass.] There is a Plant grows naturally in this Countrey, and in _Mary-land_, call’d _Silk-Grass_, which will make a fine Stuff with a silky Gloss, and better Cordage than Hemp or Flax, both for strength and durance. [Sidenote: Fruits peculiar to _Virginia_.] The wild Beasts, Birds, and Fish, are much the same also in this Countrey as are before describ’d in the precedent Description of _Mary-land_: Nevertheless we shall think it proper not to omit some Fruits, Plants, Beasts, _&c._ mention’d by the most authentick Describers of _New England_, as peculiar to that Countrey. The Fruits are, their _Putchamines_, which are a kind of Damsons; _Messamines_, a kind of Grapes; _Chechinquamins_, a sort of Fruit resembling a Chesnut; _Rawcomens_, a Fruit resembling a Goose-berry; _Macoquer_, a kind of Apple; _Mettaquesunnauks_, a sort of Fruit resembling _Indian_ Figs; _Morococks_, resembling a Straw-berry, besides a Berry which they call _Ocoughtanamnis_, somewhat like to Capers. [Sidenote: Roots.] Their peculiar Roots are _Tockawaugh_, good to eat; _Wichsacan_, of great vertue in healing of Wounds; _Pocones_, good to asswage Swellings and Aches; _Musquaspen_, wherewith they Paint their Targets and Mats. Also they have in great request a Pulse call’d _Assentamen_, and the Plant _Mattouna_, of which they make Bread. [Sidenote: Beasts.] Their peculiar Beasts are, the _Aroughena_, resembling a Badger; the _Assapanick_ or _Flying-Squerril_; _Opassum_, a certain Beast having a Bag under her Belly, wherein she carrieth and suckleth her Young; _Mussascus_, which smelling strong of Musk, resembleth a Water-Rat; _Utchunquois_, a kind of wild Cat. Their peculiar Fish are _Stingrais_. [Sidenote: Rivulets.] On the West side of the Bay of _Chesapeak_, between _Cape Henry_ and the Southerly Bank of the River of _Patomeck_, are three fair Navigable Rivers, as is before mention’d, into which the other small Rivulets fall, which here we will give some account of, as also of the _Indian_, or antient Names by which these three principal Rivers were formerly known. The first whereof is _Powhatan_ (now call’d _James-River_) according to the Name of a large and considerable Territory that lieth upon it. The Rivers that fall into this Southward, are _Apamatuck_; Eastward, _Quiyonycohanuc_, _Nansamund_, and _Chesapeak_; and Northward, _Chickamahania_. The second Navigable River is _Pamaunkee_, by the _English_ now term’d _York-River_. The Rivulet that falls into this is _Poyankatanck_. The third (which is before describ’d, and usually known by the Name of _Rappahanoc_) was formerly term’d _Toppahanoc_. This we thought fit here to insert, to the end no colour of mistake might remain to after Ages concerning the derivation or original change of such proper Names, especially being Places of great advantage to the Colony. [Sidenote: Several People of the ancient natives of _Virginia_.] The chiefest of those Tribes or Divisions of People among the _Indians_, that were by Name known to the _English_ at their first arrival, were upon the River _Pouhatan_ the _Kecoughtans_, the _Paspaheges_, (on whose Land is seated _James-Town_) the _Weanocks_, the _Arrohatocks_, the _Appametocks_, the _Nansamunds_, the _Chesapeacks_, &c. On the River _Pamaunkee_, are the _Youngtanunds_, the _Mattapaments_, &c. On the River _Toppahanoc_, the _Manahoacks_, the _Moraghtacunds_, and the _Cuttatawomens_. On the River _Patawomek_, the _Wighcocomocans_, the _Onawmanients_, and the _Moyanances_. On the River _Pawtuxunt_, the _Acquintacsuacs_, the _Pawtuxunts_, and the _Matapunients_. On the River _Bolus_, the _Sasquesahanoes_: Southward from the Bay, the _Chawonocks_, the _Mangoacks_, the _Monacans_, the _Mannahocks_, the _Masawomeks_, the _Atquanahucks_, and the _Kuscarawaocks_, besides a number not material to be nam’d, as having had little of Transaction that we hear of with the Planters. [Sidenote: Number of Inhabitants.] The number of _English_ Inhabitants in this Country are in this present Year 1671. about thirty or forty thousand, who are plentifully stock’d with all sorts of tame Cattel, as Cows, Sheep, Horses, Swine, _&c._ and all sorts of _English_ Grain; great store of brave Orchards for Fruit, whereof they make great quantities of Cyder and Perry. They have been much oblig’d by that worthy Gentleman Mr. _Edward Digges_, Son of Sir _Dudley Digges_, who was Master of the Rolls, and a Privy Councellor to King _Charles_ the First, of _Great Britain_, _&c._ For the said Mr. _Digges_ at his great Charge and Industry, hath very much advanc’d the making of Silk in this Countrey, for which purpose he hath sent for several Persons out of _Armenia_ to teach them that Art, and how to wind it off the Cods of the Silk-worms; and hath made at his own Plantation in this Colony for some years last past, considerable quantities of Silk, which is found to be as good Silk as any is in the World, which hath encourag’d divers others to prosecute that Work. [Sidenote: The Commodities of _Virginia_.] Though this Countrey be capable of producing many other good Commodities, yet the Planters have hitherto imploy’d themselves for the most part in Planting of Tobacco, as they do in _Mary-Land_; whereof there are two sorts, one which is call’d _Sweet-scented_, and the other call’d _Oranoack_, or _Bright and Large_, which is much more in quantity, but of lesser price than the former; and the Plantations upon _York River_ are esteem’d to produce the best of that sort of _Sweet-scented_: There is so much of this Commodity Planted in _Virginia_, and Imported from thence into _England_, that the Custom and Excise paid in _England_ for it, yields the King about fifty or threescore thousand Pounds _Sterling_, _per annum_: With this Commodity the Planters buy of the Ships that come thither for it (which are above a hundred Sail yearly from _England_, and other _English_ Plantations) all Necessaries of Clothing, and other Utensils of Houshold-stuff, _&c._ which they want, though they make some Shoes, and Linnen and Woollen Cloth in some Parts of _Virginia_, of the growth and Manufacture of the Countrey; and if they would Plant less Tobacco (as it is probable they will e’re long find it convenient for them to do, it being now grown a Drug of very low value, by reason of the vast quantities planted of it) they might in time provide themselves all Necessaries of Livelyhood, and produce richer and more Staple-Commodities for their Advantage. Their usual way of Trafique in buying and selling is by exchange of one Commodity for another; and Tobacco is the general Standard, by which all other Commodities receive their value; but they have some _English_ and foreign Coyns, which serve them upon many occasions. The Government is by a Governor and Council, Appointed and Authoriz’d from time to time by immediate Commission from the King of _Great Brittain_: And Laws are made by the Governor, with the consent of a General Assembly, which consists of two Houses, an Upper and a Lower; the first consists of the Council, and the latter of the Burgesses chosen by the Freemen of the Countrey; and Laws so made are in Force till His Majesty thinks fit to alter them. The chief Court of Judicature is call’d _The Quarter-Court_, because it is held every quarter of a Year, where all Causes Criminal and Civil are heard and determin’d, and the Judges of this Court are the Governor and Council: The present Governor in this Year 1671. is Sir _William Berkley_, who was made Governor by King _Charles_ the First, of _Great Brittain, &c._ in the Year 1640. And those of the Council are Sir _Henry Chichesly_, who is one of the greatest and most considerable Planters there, and Mr. _Edward Diggs_ before-mention’d, Mr. _Thomas Ludwel_ Secretary, Major-General _Robert Smith_, and divers other worthy Gentlemen. That Part of the Country where the _English_ are Planted, is divided into nineteen Counties, _viz._ _Northampton-County_ in _Acomack_, on the Eastern shore; and on the Western shore, _Corotuck_, _Lower-Norfolk_, _Nansemund_, _Isle of Wight_, _Surry_, _Warwick_, _Henerico_, _James_, _Charles_, _York_, _New-Kent_, _Glocester_, _Middlesex_, _Lancaster_, _Northumberland_, _Westmoreland_, _Rappahanock_, and _Harford-Counties_. In every one of these Counties there are inferior County-Courts kept every Month; these take no Cognizance of Causes relating to Life or Member, or exceeding a certain limited Value, such being refer’d to the Quarter-Courts only, to which likewise there lie Appeals from their Inferior Courts. There are Sheriffs, Justices of the Peace, and other Officers in every respective County, appointed by the Governor, for the Administration of Justice, who sit there according to his Order, and whereof these County-Courts are chiefly compos’d. There are few Towns as yet erected in this Colony; the Principal Seat of the _English_ there, is at a Place call’d _James-City_, in Honor of King _James_ of _Great Brittain, &c._ This is situated in a _Peninsula_, on the North-side of _James River_, and has in it many fair Brick and other good Houses: In this place are held the Quarter-Courts, General Assemblies, the Secretaries Office, and all other Affairs and greatest Concerns of the Colony are here dispatch’d. On the same side, nearer the Mouth of this River, stands _Elizabeth-City_, containing also several good Houses of Brick and Timber. Sir _William Berkley_, the present Governor resides at a place somewhat distant from _James-City_, call’d _Green-spring_, a fair Brick House, which he himself caus’d to be Built. The other Towns of Note belonging to the _English_, are only _Henricopolis_, or _Henry’s-Town_ (so nam’d from Prince _Henry_ then living, built in a very convenient place, more within Land, about eighty Miles distant from _James-City_) and _Dale’s-Gift_, so nam’d from Sir _Thomas Dale_ Deputy-Governor of the Countrey, about the Year 1610. The _Indians_ of _Virginia_ far exceed those of _Mary-land_, in Treachery and Cruelty to the _English_ there, as will appear by this following Relation of their Proceedings towards them, since the first Seating of that Colony, wherein nevertheless, the Civility of some particular Persons at their first Landing is not to be omitted. [Sidenote: Transactions between the _English_ and the Natives.] Upon the first arrival of Captain _Amidas_ and Captain _Barlow_ in _Wingandacoa_, now _Virginia_, they were accosted by _Granganimeo_ (the King’s Brother of that Countrey) who, attended with a Train of forty or fifty Men, came in a very civil manner to Treat about a Commerce of Trade and Traffique, which immediately began between them, and several Barters were made: _Granganimeo_, who was very just of his word, and always kept his promis’d Day of meeting, fancying most a Pewter Dish, gave twenty Deer-skins for it, and boring a Hole therein, hung it about his Neck for a Breast-plate; afterwards he, with his whole Company, and his Wife and Children, frequently and familiarly did eat and drink aboard the _English_ Ships, the King himself call’d _Wingina_, lying sick at his chief Town, six days Journy off, of a dangerous Wound which he had receiv’d from a neighboring King his mortal Enemy. Some of the _English_ going to Land upon the Isle of _Roanoack_, were met by _Granganimeo_’s Wife, who, her Husband being absent, commanded her Servants some to draw their Boat ashore, some to carry them on their Backs to Land, others to carry their Oars into the House for fear of stealing; and having caus’d a great Fire to be made to warm them, and to dry those that had been wet in their Voiage, she afterwards entertain’d them with a plentiful Feast or Banquet after that Country fashion; and when they took alarm at the coming of two or three of her Men with Bows and Arrows, she caus’d the Bows to be broken, and the Men to be beaten out of the House, besides several other demonstrations of extraordinary civility; and when not withstanding all this they could not be perswaded to Lodg any where but in their Boat, she us’d all means imaginable to make them quit their Jealousy, and accept of a Lodging in the House. In the Year 1585. a Company that went over with Sir _Richard Greenvil_, burnt the Town of _Aquascogoc_, for a Silver Cup that was stoln by some of the _Indians_, took Prisoner _Menatonon_, King of _Chawonoc_, who gave Relation of a King about three days Journy off, who possess’d an Island rich in Pearl, which was taken in a deep Water that inviron’d it. Going towards the Countrey of the _Mangoacks_ (among whom in the Province of _Chaunis Temaotan_, they heard of a Mine of strange Copper call’d _Wassador_, with _Skiko_, the King of _Chawonock_’s Son, and _Manteo_, a faithful Salvage, for their Guide) they were treacherously dealt with by _Wingina_, alias _Pemissapan_ (for so, his Brother _Granganimeo_ being lately dead, he had alter’d his Name) who endeavor’d to stir up a Confederacy of the _Chawonocks_, _Moratocks_, and _Mangoacks_ against them; yet by the urgent perswasions of _Ensenore_ his Father, the truest Friend the _English_ had, after the death of _Granganimeo_, and seeing them safe return’d from their Journey, wherein he thought they had all perish’d, and especially upon _Menatonon_’s sending Messengers to them with Pearl, and _Okisco_ King of _Weopomeock_, to yield himself Vassal to the Queen of _England_, his Hatred was somewhat cool’d; but _Ensenore_ deceasing soon after, he return’d to his old treacherous Practices again, and in the end, while he was contriving Mischief against the Planters, he himself was shot, taken Prisoner, and beheaded. After the Company left upon _Virginia_ by Sir _Richard Greenvil_, (for he himself was return’d) tir’d out with hunger, hardship, and the many extremities they were at last reduc’d to, had deserted the Place, and obtain’d passage for _England_, through the civility of Sir _Francis Drake_, pitying their distress, fifty Men more were Landed upon _Roanoack-Isle_, by the same Person, who how they were surpris’d and destroy’d by the Natives, was discover’d at large to the Supply that was sent over in the Year 1587. by Mr. _White_. A small Party under Captain _Smith_ going down the River to _Keconghean_, were very fiercely assaulted by sixty or seventy _Indians_, but their Musquet-shot did such Execution amongst them, that they fled into the Woods and left behind them the Image of their God, which had been carry’d before them as their Standard, and not long after sent one of their _Queiongcasocks_ to offer Peace, and to redeem their _Okee_; which _Smith_ granting, on condition six onely of them would come unarm’d and load his Boat with Provisions; and promising more over to become their Friend, and furnish them with Beads, Copper, and Hatchets: They accepted the Condition, and brought him Venison, Turkies, wild Fowl, Bread, and what else they had, Singing and Dancing in sign of Friendship till they departed. In his next Voyage for the discovery of the Head of _Chickamahania_ River, he was, through the neglect of his Sea-men who were sent to watch the Booty, taken Prisoner; in which condition he was kept a whole Month: then being releas’d, he got Provisions for the People in _James-Town_; which had they not timely receiv’d, they had all abandon’d the Place, and return’d to _England_. [Sidenote: King _Powhatan_.] [Sidenote: _James-Town_ burnt.] While Affairs stood thus in a mean condition, Captain _Newport_ arriving there with a Ship and sixty Men to strengthen the Plantations, he went to _Weromocomoco_, where King _Powhatan_ kept his Court, and found him sitting on a Bed of Mats, and an Embroider’d Leather Cushion, Cloth’d in Deer-skins; at his Feet sat a young Maiden, and on each side of the House twenty Concubines; his Head and Shoulders painted red, and a Chain of white Beads about his Neck. _Newport_ to oblige him, gave him an _English_ Youth; for which he receiv’d _Powhatans_ Friend _Mamontak_; with whom returning, he found a sad accident, for the Fire had not onely burnt the Houses of the new Planters, but also the Pallisado’s about _James-Town_, made for a Defence against the Enemies Assaults, and most of their Store; which was so much the worse, because it hapned in the Winter, and indeed had prov’d very fatal, had not a Ship, which was suppos’d to be lost, happily arriv’d there with a considerable quantity of Provisions. [Sidenote: _Smith_’s Voyage.] [Sidenote: His remarkable Exploits.] Whilst the Town was rebuilding, _Smith_ set Sail in an open Barque with fourteen Men, and discover’d two Isles before _Point Charles_, to which he gave his Name; then ran into the Inlet _Chesapeack_, in the midst of which lay several Islands, by the Sea-men call’d _Russels_. Before the River _Wighcomoco_ they found a disturbed Sea, and more Northerly a Bay with fresh and hot Water, and at last he met with two _Virginians_, which conducted the _English_ along a Creek to _Onawmoment_, where some hundreds of them lay in Ambuscade, according to _Powhatan_’s appointment, to cut off _Smith_; who leaping forth on a sudden appear’d like Devils, all painted; but the Bullets flying about made them all run away. _Smith_, whose Design was onely to discover the Countrey, and the Silver Mine of _Patawomeck_, ten Leagues up into the Countrey, found the Metal to be of little value, so that he return’d with little Success, being newly cur’d of a poysonous Wound in the Arm, which was given him by a Fish not unlike a Shark, whilst he lay aground near _Toppahanock_. A while after being inform’d of _Powhatan_’s Design to destroy the _English_, (though he had been lately Presented by _Newport_ with a Silver Basin, a rich Chair, Bed, and Furniture belonging to it, with other things of value) he, to prevent him, chose forty eight out of two hundred Men which were Garrison’d in _James-Town_, then going to _Werowocomoco_, Landed with much trouble, the River being frozen above half a Mile from the Shore. A _German_ Soldier amongst _Smith_’s Company giving private notice to _Powhatan_ of the Design of the _English_, made his Escape by flight: But _Smith_ going on to _Pamaunke_, found King _Opechancangough_ with seven hundred Men in Arms, threatning a fierce Battel; but _Smith_ making directly up to him, set his Pistol on his Breast, and forc’d him to lay down his Arms. _Powhatan_ by this time provided with Swords and Musquets by two _Dutch_-men, also began to bestir himself afresh; but his Intentions being too soon known, he was again quieted, and forc’d a second time to send _Smith_ a String of Pearl; after which a Peace was concluded between all the Natives and the _English_. Many other Quarrels and Encounters there were in the Infancy of the Plantation between the _Indians_ and the _English_, wherein it would be endless to recount all the Treacheries and Ambuscades of the Salvages, some of which had prov’d very pernicious to the Planters, had they not been betray’d to Captain _Smith_ by _Pocahonta_, King _Powhatan_’s Daughter, who upon all occasions shew’d her self a great Friend to the _English_, having sav’d the Captain’s Life, when, being her Father’s Prisoner, he was just brought to Execution. This Lady was afterwards brought into _England_, Christned by the Name of _Rebekah_, and Married to one Mr. _Rolf_, and died at _Gravesend_ in an intended Voyage back to her own Countrey. Nor did their Cruelties and Treacheries end when the Plantation came to be more setled, for on the two and twentieth of _March_ about the Year 1621. in the time of Sir _Francis Wyat_’s Government, they generally combin’d to destroy all the _English_ there; and carried on this devilish Design with such dissimulation and dexterity, that in one day they cut off seven hundred Men, Women, and Children, there being at that time not above fifteen hundred in the Countrey. Since which time, in the Year of our Lord 1643. there hapned another bloody Massacre, wherein near five hundred _English_ were in one Night miserably butcher’d by those barbarous and perfidious Salvages: whose Blood the present Governor, Sir _William Berkley_, nobly and justly reveng’d the Year following, utterly destroying most of them, and taking Prisoner their chief Emperor, _Opichancono_, who died not long after in Prison. Having given but a small hint, in its proper place, of the Story of Captain _Smith_’s Imprisonment by _Powhatan_, and his deliverance from Death by _Pocahonta_; we have thought not improper to reserve the Story of it, being very remarkable for a particular Relation, before we conclude our Description of _Virginia_, since otherwise we should have interrupted the Series of our former Discourse. _The Relation of Captain_ Smith_’s being taken Prisoner by_ Powhatan, _and of his being deliver’d from Death by his Daughter_ Pocahonta. The Salvages having drawn from one _George Cassen_, whither Captain _Smith_ was gone, prosecuting that opportunity, they follow’d him with three hundred Bowe-Men, conducted by the King of _Pamaunkee_, who in divisions, searching the turnings of the River, found two of his Men by the fire side, whom they shot full of Arrows, and flew. Then finding the Captain, who, as is said, us’d the Salvage that was his Guide as his Shield, (three of them being slain, and others sore gall’d) the rest would not come near him: Thinking thus to have return’d to his Boat, regarding them as he march’d, more than his way, he slipp’d up to the middle in an Osier-Creek, and his Salvage with him, yet durst they not come to him, till being near dead with cold, he threw away his Arms: Then according to their composition, they drew him forth, and led him to the Fire, where his Men were slain; diligently they chaf’d his benumm’d Limbs, he demanding for their Captain, they shew’d him _Opechankanough_, King of _Pamaunkee_, to whom he gave a round Ivory double compass Dyal. Much they marvel’d at the playing of the Fly and Needle, which they could see so plainly, and yet not touch it, because of the Glass that cover’d them; but when he demonstrated by that Globe-like Jewel, the roundness of the Earth, and Skies; the Sphere of the Sun, Moon, and Stars, and how the Sun did chase the Night round about the World continually; the greatness of the Land and Sea; the diversity of Nations, variety of Complexions, and how we were to them _Antipodes_, and many other such like matters, they all stood as amaz’d with admiration: Notwithstanding, within an hour after they ty’d him to a Tree, and as many as could stand about him prepar’d to shoot him; but the King holding up the Compass in his Hand, they all laid down their Bowes and Arrows, and in a triumphant manner led him to _Orapaks_, where he was after their manner kindly Feasted, and well us’d. Their order in conducting him was thus; Drawing themselves all in Fyle, the King in the midst had all their Bowes and Swords borne before him. Captain _Smith_ was led after him by three great Salvages, holding him fast by each Arm; and on each side six went in Fyle with their Arrows nocked. But arriving at the Town (which was but onely thirty or forty Hunting Houses made of Mats, which they remove as they please, as we our Tents) all the Women and Children staring and gazing at him, the Souldiers first all in Fyle wheel’d off to the Rear in good Order; on each Flank were Officers, like Serjeants to see them keep their Postures: A good time they continu’d this Exercise, and then cast themselves in a Ring, Dancing in such several Postures, and singing and yelling out such hellish Notes and Screeches; being strangely Painted, every one his Quiver of Arrows, and at his Back a Club; on his Arm a Fox or an Otters-skin, or some such matter for his vambrace; their Heads and Shoulders Painted red, with Oyl and _Pocones_ mingled together, which Scarlet-like colour, made an exceeding handsome show; his Bowe in his Hand, and the Skin of a Bird with her Wings abroad dry’d, ty’d on his Head, a piece of Copper, a white Shell, a long Feather, with a small Rattle growing at the Tails of their Snaks ty’d to it, or some such like Toy. All this while _Smith_ and the King stood in the midst, guarded, as before is said, and after three Dances they all departed. _Smith_ they conducted to a long House, where thirty or forty tall Fellows did guard him, and e’re long, more Bread and Venison was brought him than would have serv’d twenty Men, I think his Stomack at that time was not very good; what he left, they put in Baskets and ty’d over his Head. About midnight they set the Meat again before him; all this time none of them would eat a bit with him, till the next Morning they brought him as much more, and then did they eat all the old, and reserv’d the new as they had done the other, which made him think they would feed him for slaughter: Yet in this desperate estate to fend him from the cold, one _Maocassater_ brought him his Gown, in requital of some Beads and Toys _Smith_ had given him at his first arrival in _Virginia_. Two days after a man would have slain him (but that the Guard prevented it) for the death of his Son, to whom they conducted him to recover the poor man then breathing his last. _Smith_ told them, that at _James-Town_ he had a Water would do it, if they would let him fetch it, but they would not permit that; but made all the preparations they could to assault _James-Town_, craving his advice, and for recompence he should have Life, Liberty, Land, and Women. In part of a Tablebook he writ his mind to them at the Fort, what was intended, how they should follow that direction to affright the messengers, and without fail send him such things as he writ for, and an Inventory with them. The difficulty and danger, he told the Salvages, of the Mines, great Guns, and other Engines, exceedingly affrighted them, yet according to his Request they went to _James-Town_, in as bitter weather as could be of Frost and Snow, and within three days return’d with an Answer. But when they came to _James-Town_, seeing Men sally out as he had told them they would, they fled; yet in the night they came again to the same place where he had told them they should receive answer, and such things as he had promis’d them, which they found accordingly, and with which they return’d with no small expedition, to the wonder of them all, supposing that he could either Divine, or the Paper could speak: then they led him to the _Youthtanunds_, the _Mattapanients_, the _Payankatanks_, the _Nantaughtacunds_, and _Onawmanients_ upon the Rivers of _Rapahanock_, and _Patawomek_, through intricate ways, and back again by divers other several Nations, to the Kings Habitation at _Pamaunkee_, where they entertain’d him with most strange and fearful Conjurations. Not long after, early in the Morning, a great fire was made in a long House, and a Mat spread on each side thereof; on the one they caus’d him to sit, and all the Guard went out of the House, and presently there came skipping in a great grim Fellow, all Painted over with Coal, mingled with Oyl; and many Snakes and Wesels-skins stuff’d with Moss, and all their Tails ty’d together, so as they met on the Crown of his Head in a Tassel; and round about the Tassel was a Coronet of Feathers, the Skins hanging round about his Head, Back, and Shoulders, and in a manner cover’d his Face; with a hellish voice, and a Rattle in his Hand. With most strange gestures and passions he began his Invocation, and environ’d the fire with a Circle of Meal; which done, three more such like Devils came rushing in with the like antique Tricks, Painted half black, half red; but all their Eyes were Painted white, and some red strokes like _Mutchato_’s, along their Cheeks: round about him those Fiends Danc’d a pretty while, and then came in three more as ugly as the rest, with red Eyes, and white strokes over their black Faces; at last they all sate down right against him, three of them on the one hand of the chief Priest, and three on the other; then all with their Rattles began a Song, which ended, the chief Priest laid down five Wheat Corns, then stretching his Arms and Hands with such violence, that he sweat, and his Veins swell’d, he began a short Oration: at the conclusion, they all gave a short groan, and then laid down three Grains more; after that, began their Song again, and then another Oration, ever laying down so many Corns as before, till they had twice incircled the Fire; that done, they took a bunch of little Sticks, prepared for that purpose, continuing still their Devotion, and at the end of every Song and Oration, they laid down a Stick between the Divisions of Corn: till night, neither he nor they did either eat or drink, and then they feasted merrily, with the best Provisions they could make: Three days they us’d this Ceremony, the meaning whereof they told him, was to know if he intended them well, or no. The Circle of Meal signifi’d their Countrey, the Circles of Corn the bounds of the Sea, and the Sticks his Countrey. They imagin’d the World to be flat and round, like a Trencher, and they in the midst. After this they brought him a Bag of Gun-powder, which they carefully preferv’d till the next Spring, to Plant as they did their Corn, because they would be acquainted with the nature of that Seed. _Opitchapam_, the King’s Brother, invited him to his House, where, with as many Platters of Bread, Fowl, and wild Beasts, as did environ him, he bid him wellcome, but not any of them would eat a bit with him, but put up all the remainder in Baskets. At his return to _Opechancanoughs_, all the Kings Women, and their Children, flock’d about him for their Parts, as a due by Custom, to be merry with such Fragments. At last, they brought him to _Meronocomoco_, where was _Powhatan_ their Emperor. Here more than two hundred of those grim Courtiers stood wondering at him, as he had been a Monster; till _Powhatan_ and his Train had put themselves in their greatest Braveries. Before a Fire, upon a seat like a Bedsted, he sat cover’d with a great Robe, made of _Rarowcun_-Skins, and all the Tails hanging by. On either hand did sit a young Maid, of sixteen or eighteen years of Age, and along on each side the House, two rows of Men, and behind them as many Women, with all their Heads and Shoulders Painted red; many of their Heads bedeck’d with the white Doun of Birds, but every one with something, and a great Chain of white Beads about their Necks. At his entrance before the Emperor, all the People gave a great shout. The Queen of _Appamatuck_ was appointed to bring him Water to wash his Hands, and another brought him a bunch of Feathers, in stead of a Towel to dry them: Having Feasted him after their barbarous manner as well as they could, a long consultation was held, but in conclusion, two great Stones being brought before _Powhatan_, as many as could, laid Hands on him, dragg’d him to them, and thereon laid his Head, when being ready with their Clubs, to beat out his Brains, _Pocahontas_, the Emperors dearest Daughter, seeing no intreaty could prevail, got his Head in her Arms, and laid her own upon his to save him from death; whereat, the Emperor was contented he should live to make him Hatchets, and her Bells, Beads, and Copper; for they thought him a Man of all Occupations like themselves; for the King himself will make his own Robes, Shoes, Bowes, Arrows, Pots, Plant, Hunt, or do any thing as well as the rest. [Illustration: A New _DISCRIPTION OF_ CAROLINA _By Order of the_ Lords Proprietors] Two days after, _Powhatan_ having disguis’d himself in the most fearful manner he could, caus’d Captain _Smith_ to be brought forth to a great House in the Woods, and there upon a Mat by the Fire to be left alone. Not long after, from behind a Mat that divided the House, was made the most doleful noise he ever heard; then _Powhatan_, more like a Devil than a Man, with about two hundred more as black as himself, came unto him, and told him, That now they were Friends, and presently he should go to _James-Town_, to send him two great Guns and a Grindstone, for which he would give him the Countrey of _Capahowosick_, and for ever esteem him as his Son _Nantaquoud_. So to _James-Town_ with twelve Guides _Powhatan_ sent him. That Night they Quarter’d in the Woods, he still expecting (as he had done all this long time of his Imprisonment) every hour to be put to one Death or other, for all their Feasting: but Almighty God (by his Divine Providence) had mollifi’d the Hearts of those stern _Barbarians_ with compassion. The next Morning betimes they came to the Fort, where _Smith_ having us’d the Salvages with what kindness he could, he shew’d _Rawhunt_, _Powhatan_’s trusty Servant, two Demi-Culverins and a Milstone, to carry to _Powhatan_: they found them somewhat too heavy; but when they saw him Discharge them, they being loaded with Stones, amongst the Boughs of a great Tree loaded with Isickles, the Ice and Branches came so tumbling down, that the poor Salvages ran away half dead with Fear. But at last we regain’d some Conference with them, and gave them some Toys, and sent to _Powhatan_’s Women and Children such Presents, as gave them in general, full content. SECT. V. Carolina. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Carolina_.] _Carolina_ is that part of _Florida_ which lies between twenty nine and thirty six Degrees and thirty Minutes of Northern Latitude: It is wash’d on the East and South, with the _Atlantick_ Ocean; on the West with _Mare Pacificum_, or the South Sea; and on the North, bounds on _Virginia_. A Countrey wherein Nature shews how bountiful she can be without the assistance of Art, the Inhabitants (excepting a little _Maiz_ which their old Men and Women Plant) depending meerly on the natural and spontaneous Growth of the Soil for their Provisions, the Woods furnishing them with store of Fruit and Venison, and the Rivers with plenty of several sorts of wholsom and savory Fish. This Maintenance, which without forecast or toil they receive from the natural fruitfulness of the Countrey, will, if we consider either the largeness of their Growth, or the duration of their Lives, be thought neither scanty nor unhealthy, their Stature being of a larger size than that of _English_-men, their Make strong and well proportion’d, a crooked or mis-shapen Person being not to be found in the whole Countrey; and (where the chance of War, which they are almost continually engag’d in one against another in their little Governments, spares any of them) they live to an incredible old age; so that when the _English_ came there, they found some of their Kings, who saw descend from them the sixth Generation. [Sidenote: Productions of the Soil.] The Soil is very rich and fertile, producing naturally Walnuts, Grapes (of which the _English_ who are there Planted have made very good Wine) Apricocks, Bullys, with a multitude of others; besides the Woods also are full of very good Peaches, and all the Season of the Year strew’d all over with Strawberries. Mulberry-Trees are the common growth of the Woods; and to assure you they are the natural Offspring of the Place, and grow to an incredible bigness, one whereof the _English_ (who are new Planted at _Albemarle Point_ on _Ashley_ River) made use to fasten the Gate of their Pallisado to, was so large, that all who came from thence say, they never saw any Oak in _England_ bigger, which is but the ordinary size of the Mulberry-Trees of this Countrey, which is so sure an Argument of the richness of the Soil, that the Inhabitants of _Virginia_ enquiring of the Seamen who came from thence, concerning the Quality and Product of the Countrey, when they were inform’d of the large Mulberry-Trees it produc’d, were so well satisfi’d with it, that they made no farther Enquiry. There are also other Trees, as Ash, Poplar, and Bay, with several sorts unknown to us of _Europe_; but those which make it almost all one general Forrest of large Timber-Trees, are Oak, both red and white, and Cedar. There are also here and there large Groves of Pine-Trees, some a hundred Foot high, which afford a better sort of Mast than are to be had either in _Mary-Land_ or _Norway_. These larger Trees weaving their luxuriant Branches into a close Shade, suffer no Under-wood to grow between them, either by their Droppings, or else the Heads of Deer which loosening all the tender Shoots, quite destroy it; so that a great part of the Countrey is as it were a vast Forrest of fine Walks, free from the heat of the Sun, or the incumbrance of Shrubs and Bushes, and so clear and open, that a Man may easily ride a Hunting amongst the Trees, yielding a Prospect very pleasant and surpassing. On the Skirts of these Woods grow lesser Trees and Shrubs of several sorts; amongst them are sundry Dying Materials, which how well the Inhabitants know how to make use of, appears in the Deer-Skins that the chief of them wear, which are Painted, or rather Dy’d, with several lively Colours. But amongst their Shrubs, one of most note and use is that whose Leaves make their _Casini_, a Drink they frequently use, and affirm to be very advantageous for the preservation of Health; which, by the description our _English_ give of the size, colour, and shape of the Leaf, the sort of Tree it grows on, and the taste, colour, and effects of the Drink, which is nothing but the Decoction of the Leaf, seems to be the very same with the _East-India TEE_, and by those who have seen and tasted both, affirm’d to be no other, and may very probably be a spontaneous and native Plant of this Place, since those who give us an account of it, tell us, that this so much valu’d Leaf grows most plentifully in _Nanking_, a Province in _China_ under the very same Latitude, and very much agreeing in Soil and Situation with this of _Carolina_. What Herbs else the Countrey produces, the _English_ Enquirers (who by minding their Plantations and Settlement there, have been taken off from such unprofitable Actions) give us but little account, onely they say, that those Plats of Ground which have been formerly clear’d off by the _Indians_ for the Planting their Corn, they found thick cover’d with three-leav’d Grass and Dazies, which the fertility of the Soil thrusts forth, whenever the Natives remove their Tillage to some other place, and leave the Earth to its own production; and in other parts they found plenty of Garden Herbs growing wild. The low and Moorish Grounds are for the most part overgrown with Sedge and Reeds, and such other Trash, which usually incumbers rich and uncultivated Lands; those they call _Swamsas_, which with a little Husbandry would prove very good Meadows. There are also some large and pleasant _Savanas_, or grassy Plains. These are a part of the Trees and Plants best known to us, that Nature of her self produces, in a Soil which contrives and nourishes any thing. The _English_ who are now Planted in the most Northern parts of it, at _Albemarle_, bordering on _Virginia_, have Apples, Pears, Cherries, Apricocks, Plumbs, and Water-Melons, equalling, and if you will believe the Inhabitants, both in largeness of size and goodness of taste, exceeding any in _Europe_. And they who are Setled farther South on _Ashley_ River, have found that the Oranges, Lemmons, Pomegranates, Limes, Pomecitrons, _&c._ which they Planted there, have thriven beyond expectation; and there is nothing which they have put into the Earth, that through any defect in the Soil, hath fail’d to prosper. [Sidenote: Commodities of the Countrey.] Besides those things which do serve to satisfie Hunger, or provoke it, the Land doth with great return produce Indigo, Ginger, Tobacco, Cotton, and other Commodities fit to send abroad and furnish foreign Markets; and when a little time shall have brought those kind of Plants to maturity, and given the Inhabitants leisure to furnish themselves with Conveniences for ordering those things aright, the Trials that they have already made of the Soil and its fitness for such Plantations, assure you, that besides Silk, enough to store _Europe_, and a great many other considerable Commodities, they shall have as great plenty of good Wine and Oyl, as any part of the World. The Mould is generally black, mellow, and upon handling feels soft, and (to use their Expression who have been there) soapy, and is generally all over the Countrey just like the fine Mould of our well order’d Gardens. Under this black Earth, which is of a good thickness in most places that they have try’d, there lies a Bed of Marle, and in some parts Clay. [Sidenote: Fish and Water-Fowl.] The Rivers are stor’d with plenty of excellent Fish of several sorts, which are taken with great ease in abundance, and are one great part of the Natives Provision, who are never like to want this Recruit, in a Countrey so abounding in large Rivers, there being in that one small Tract between _Port Rasal_ and _Cape Carteret_, which are not one Degree distant, five or six great Navigable Rivers, that empty themselves into the Sea. These Rivers are also cover’d with Flocks of Ducks and Mallard, whereof millions are seen together, besides Cranes, Herons, Geese, Curlews, and other Water-Fowl, who are so easie to be kill’d, that onely rising at the discharge and noise of a Gun, they instantly light again in the same place, and presently offer a fresh Mark to the Fowler. At the Mouths of the Rivers, and along the Sea-Coast, are Beds of Oysters, which are of a longer Make than those in _Europe_, but very well tasted, wherein are often found good large Pearls, which though the unskilful _Indians_ by washing the Oysters do commonly discolour, and spoil their lustre, yet ’tis not to be doubted, but if rightly order’d, there will be found many of value, and the Fishing for them turn to some account. Besides the easie Provisions which the Rivers and Sea afford, their Woods are well stock’d with Deer, Rabbets, Hares, Turtle-Doves, Phesants, Partridges, and an infinite number of Wood-Pigeons and wild Turkies, which are the ordinary Dishes of the _Indians_, whose House-keeping depends on their Fishing and Hunting, and who have found it no ill way of Living in so fertile a Countrey, to trust themselves without any labor or forecast, to the Supplies which are there provided to their hands, without the continual trouble of Tillage and Husbandry. Besides, these Woods are fill’d with innumerable variety of smaller Birds, as different in their Notes as Kinds. [Sidenote: Temperature of the Climate.] The Temperature of this Province is agreeable to a Countrey, whose Position is on the warmer side of the temperate _Zone_, but yet the Heat is not so sultry nor offensive, as in Places under the same Latitude in the _Old World_; to which moderation of Heat, as well as the healthiness of it, the vast _Atlantick_ Ocean, lying to the East and South of it, may perhaps not a little contribute, an instance whereof some think _China_ to be; to which deservedly admir’d Countrey _Carolina_ exactly answers in its Position and Latitude, the trending from North-East to South-West of its Coast, and the lowness of its Shore, and wants nothing but Inhabitants, to make it equal, if not excell, in all conveniences of Life, as it doth in richness of Soil, that flourishing Empire. The healthiness of the Air is such, that it is not onely benign and favorable to the home-bred _Indians_, and Constitutions accustom’d to it, but the _English_-men who first Planted on _Ashley_ River, though for some other Conveniences they Planted on the side, or almost middle of a Morass, and were encompass’d with a salt Marsh, where the Air, pent up with Woods that surrounded them, had not that freedom it hath in open and cultivated Countreys, yet lost not in a whole years time, of a considerable number, any one Person, of any Disease to be imputed to the Countrey, those few that dy’d in that time sinking under lingring Distempers which they brought with them, and had almost worn them out before they came thither. The _Bermudians_ (who being accustom’d to the pure Air of their own Island, cannot without hazard of their Lives put themselves into any other Place) assur’d of the healthiness of this Place, which is the next Land to them, and under the same Latitude, venture hither. And generally all the _English_ Planting in the _West-Indies_, are so taken with the Conveniences of this Countrey, which, as some of the most considerable of the _English_ in those Parts say of it, promises all that the Heart of Man can wish, that they send the overplus of their People hither; to which the Inhabitants of _Barbados_, a skilful and wary sort of Planters, well knowing in all the parts of the _West-Indies_, have been found to remove the Hands they could spare. As the Summer is not intolerably nor offensively hot, so the Winter is not troublesom nor pinching, but enough to correct the Humors of Mens Bodies, the better to strengthen them, and preserve their Healths, and so far to check the growth of Plants, that by this stop they may put out more regularly, and the Corn and other Fruits the better ripen together, and be ready seasonably at the Harvest, the want whereof in some Countreys hinders the beneficial Growth of several valuable Commodities, the continual Spring all the year long making that their Crops are never ready, their Trees being laden with green and ripe Fruit at the same time, which is to be seen in the Vines growing between the _Tropicks_, where, though they bear excellent Grapes, yet they cannot make any Wine, whilest the mixture of ripe and sowre Grapes upon the same Branch, renders them unfit for the Press, which from Grapes so blended, though of a good kind, would squeeze out a very crude and useless Liquor. This also is the reason why many Parts where our Wheat will grow very well, do yet lose the benefit of it, whilest the several Ears ripening unequally, never make the Crop fit for the Sickle. But this Countrey hath Winter enough to remove that Inconvenience, and to put such a stop to the Rise of the Sap, and the Budding of Plants, as to make the several kinds of Fruits Bud and Blossom in their distinct Seasons, and keep even pace till they are fit to be gather’d. [Sidenote: Nature, Constitutions, and Manners of the Inhabitants.] To this happy Climate the native Inhabitants are very well suited, a strong, lusty, and well shap’d People, who to their well knit and active Bodies, want not stout and vigorous Minds; they are a People of a good Understanding, well Humor’d, and generally so just and Honest, that they may seem to have no notice of, as their Language hath no word for, Dishonesty and Cheating; and the worst Name they have for ill Men is, that they are not good. They are a stout and valiant People, which appears in the constant Wars they are engag’d in, not out of covetousness, and a desire of usurping others Possessions, or to enrich themselves by the Spoils of their Neighbors, but upon a pitch of Honor, and for the glory of Victory, which is their greatest joy, there being no parts of their Lives wherein they enjoy so much satisfaction, and give themselves so wholly to Jollity, as in their Triumphs after Victory. Valor therefore is the Vertue they most esteem and reward, and he which hath behav’d himself well in the Wars, is suffer’d to wear the Badges of Honor, and is advanc’d beyond others with some Marks of his Courage; which amongst some is blacking the Skin below his Eyes with black Lead, in fashion something of an Half-Moon; which Mark of Courage is not suffer’d to be worn by any, but those who by some brave Action, as killing the Enemy’s Leader, _&c._ hath signaliz’d himself in their Encounters. They are faithful to their Promises, fair and candid in their Dealings, and so far from Dishonesty, that they want even the Seeds of it, _viz._ Forecast and Covetousness; and he will be very little apt to deceive you to Day, who troubles not himself much about to Morrow, and trusts for the Provisions of the Day to the Day it self; which proceeds not in them for want of Wit, but desire of Content and Quiet, or by the help of their natural Reason they enjoy that Happiness which the Philosophers could not by their Study and Reading attain to, whilest these Men cut off those Desires which Learning could never help the other to Govern; and which if once permitted to run out beyond the present, are capable of no Rest nor Bounds. In their Conversation they are courteous and civil, and in their Visits make Presents to one another; when they meet, their way of Salutation is stroaking on the Shoulders, and sucking in their Breath; and if he be a great Man whom they Salute, they stroak his Thighs too; as civil an Address, as those Patterns of good Breeding, the Hero’s, us’d to their Princes, who in their greatest Courtships, we are told, embrac’d their Knees: After their Salutation they sit down; and it is usual with them to sit still almost a quarter of an hour before they speak, which is not an effect of stupidity or sullenness, but the accustom’d Gravity of their Countrey; for they are in their Tempers a merry, frollick, gay People, and so given to Jollity, that they will Dance whole Nights together, the Women sitting by and Singing, whilest the Men Dance to their Ayrs, which though not like ours, are not harsh or unpleasing, but are something like the Tunes of the _Irish_: So that if we will not let our selves too fondly admire onely the Customs we have been bred up in, nor think Men are to be valu’d for making Legs after our Mode, or the Clothes they wear, which, the finer and gayer they are, always the more to be suspected of Luxury and Effeminateness; if we will allow but these Men to follow the Garbs of their own Countrey, and think them fine enough in a shape onely to hide their Nakedness before, or a Deer-skin hanging loosely on their Shoulders, and their Women not ill Dress’d in Garments of Moss, and Necklaces of Beads, whilest the Fashion of their Courts require no other Ornaments; if, I say, a long and pleasant Life, without Distemper or Care, be to be valu’d, without the incumbrance of unnecessary Trinkets; if Men are to be esteem’d for Valor, Honesty, Friendship, Humanity and good Nature, though Strangers to the ceremonious Troubles we are accustom’d to, the Natives of _Carolina_ will as little, or perhaps less, deserve the Name of _Miserable_, or _Salvage_, as those that give it them. ’Tis true, the _French_ and _Spaniards_ who have Planted amongst them, or with little Armies travell’d their Countrey, have been ill handled by them; but yet the _Indians_ never did them any harm, or treated them otherwise than Friends, till those _Europeans_ by their breach of Faith and several Outrages, had provok’d their just Revenge; and they did nothing but what most virtuous and generous sort of Men are apt to do, to revenge those Affronts, which did not agree with their Tempers tamely to endure. That this did not proceed from treachery and inconstancy in their Natures, is apparent in the contrary Correspondence they have had with the _English_ Setled amongst them, to whom they have been all along very kind, as they were at first very covetous of their Company; for after that some of their King’s Relation had been at _Barbados_, and had seen and admir’d the Temper, Fashions and Strength of the _English_ there, and had been very civilly Treated in that Island, they were so well satisfi’d with them, that at the coming of the _English_ to Settle there, the several little Kingdoms strove with all the Arts and Arguments they could use, each of them to draw the _English_ to Plant in their Dominions, by commending the richness of their Soil, conveniency of their Rivers, the healthiness of their Countrey, the disparagement of their Neighbors, and whatever else they judg’d might allure the _English_ to their Neighborhood. Nor was this onely the first heat of Men fond of Novelties, and as soon weary of them again, but ever since the _English_ first Planted at _Albemarle Point_, on _Ashley_ River, they have continu’d to do them all manner of friendly Offices, ready on all occasions to supply them with any thing they have observ’d them to want, not making use of our Mens Necessities, as an opportunity to enhance the Price of their Commodities, a sort of fair Dealing we could scarce have promis’d them amongst civiliz’d, well bred, and religious Inhabitants of any part of _Europe_; and though they are much frighted with our Guns, both small and great, yet like innocent and well-meaning People, they do not at all distrust our Power, but freely, without suspicion, trust themselves, both Men and Women, even their Kings themselves, in our Town, Lodging and Dancing there frequently whole Nights together, upon no other Pledges but the bare confidence of our mutual Friendship; nor do our Men use any greater caution in Conversing with them, stragling up and down, and travelling singly and unarm’d through their Woods for many Miles about, and are so far from receiving any injury or ill treatment from them, that on the contrary they are kindly us’d and Entertain’d, and guided by them in their Way whenever they desire it; and when any of our Men meet them in their Walks, the _Indians_ all stand still till they are gone by, civilly Saluting them as they pass. Nor doth this Assurance of theirs bound it self within their own Homes, they of their own accords venturing themselves aboard our Ships, have gone voluntarily with our Men to _Virginia_ and _Barbados_. Nor have the _English_ been wanting on their parts in any thing that may preserve this Amity, being very cautious of doing them any injury, bartering with them for those things they receive of them, and buying of them even the waste Land they make no use of. Besides the simplicity of the _Indians_ Diet, it is very remarkable, that they have a general aversion to those two things which are most acceptable to our Palates, and without which few of us either eat or drink with any delight; for in their Meats they cannot endure the least mixture or rellish of Salt; and for their Drink, they utterly abominate all manner of strong Liquor; to the latter whereof, their large Growth and constant Health, is perhaps not a little owing. [Sidenote: Their manner of Government.] Every little Town is a distinct Principality, Govern’d by an Hereditary King, who in some places is not Son, but Sisters Son to the precedent King, the Succession of the Blood-Royal being continu’d by the safer side. The great Business of those Princes is to lead their Men out against their Enemies in War, or against the Beasts in Hunting; for unless it be to appoint them where to Hunt, or else to Consult about making some Attempt upon their Enemy, he hath but small trouble in the Government of his Subjects, who either through their own Honesty, or the few occasions they have for Controversies in their _extempore_ way of Living, need few Laws, and little Severity to keep them in order; but yet they Govern their People without Contract, and fail not of a ready Obedience to their Commands; so that when some of them have bought things of such of the _English_, who by the Orders made amongst our selves were not to Traffick with the _Indians_, they have, upon Complaint made to their _Casiques_, been restor’d again, though in strict Rules of Law they were neither bound by, nor oblig’d to take notice of the Rules which were made onely to Govern our own People, and had at just Prices bought what they carry’d away; such is the Honesty of Men, whose Principles not being corrupted with Learning and Distinction, are contented to follow the Dictates of right Reason, which Nature has sufficiently taught all Men for the well ordering of their Actions, and enjoyment and preservation of humane Society, who do not give themselves up to be amus’d and deceiv’d by insignificant Terms, and minding what is just and right, seek not Evasions in the Niceties and Fallacies of Words. [Sidenote: _Carolina_ granted by Patent to several Noble Persons by His Majesty.] The same is to be said of the first Discovery of this Countrey, as hath been formerly said of _Virginia_ and _Florida_, of both which it partakes; but as to the present Interest and Propriety, the _English_, besides all _Virginia_ intirely, have also so much of _Florida_ as makes up this considerable Province of _Carolina_, which soon after the happy Restauration of His present Majesty King _Charles_ II. from whom it receives Denomination, was granted by Patent to _Edward_ Earl of _Clarendon_, L. Chancellor of _England_, _George_ Duke of _Albemarle_, _William_ Earl of _Craven_, _John_ Lord _Berkley_, _Anthony_ Lord _Ashley_, Sir _George Carteret_, Vice-Chamberlain of His Majesty’s Houshold, Sir _William Berkley_, Knight and Baronet, and Sir _John Colleton_, Knight and Baronet. [Sidenote: Their care for Setling and Improving of this Plantation.] The Lords-Proprietors of this Countrey, for the better Settlement of it according to their Patent granted unto them by His Majesty, and for the enlargement of the King’s Dominions in those parts of _America_, have been at great Charge to secure this so rich and advantageous a Countrey to the Crown of _England_, to whom of ancient Right, by the Discovery of Sir _Sebastian Cabott_ in the time of _Henry_ the Seventh, it doth belong, and for its Situation, Fertility, Neighborhood to our other Plantations and several other Conveniences, of too valuable consideration to be negligently lost: By the Care therefore and Endeavors of those Great Men, it hath now two considerable Colonies Planted in it, the one of _Albemarle_, on the North side, bordering on _Virginia_, where are some hundreds of _English_ Families remov’d thither from _New England_, and some of our other Plantations in the _West-Indies_; and another towards the middle of the Countrey, at _Charles-Town_, or _Ashley-River_, a Settlement so hopeful, for the healthiness of the Land, and convenience of access by a large deep Navigable River, and so promising in its very Infancy, that many of the rich Inhabitants of _Barbados_ and _Bermudas_, who are now crowded up in those flourishing Islands, and many in our other _American_ Plantations, are turning their Eyes and Thoughts this way, and have already remov’d part of their Stock and Servants thither. Nor is it to be doubted, but that many, following the Example of those who went to _Albemarle_, will be drawn to this better Plantation at _Ashley-River_, from _New-England_, where the heat of their Zeal, and the coldness of the Air, doth not agree with every Man’s Constitution; and therefore it is to be thought, that many well temper’d Men, who are not much at ease under such Extreams, will be forward to remove hither. [Sidenote: Fair Terms propos’d to whomsoever shall remove thither.] The Lords-Proprietors, for the comfortable subsistence, and future enrichment of all those who shall this Year 1671. Transport themselves and Servants thither, allow every Man a hundred Acres _per_ Head, for himself, his Wife, Children and Servants, he carries thither, to him and his Heirs for ever, paying onely one Peny an Acre, as a Chief-Rent; which Peny an Acre is not to be paid these nineteen years; and those Servants who go along thither with their Masters, shall each also have a hundred Acres upon the same Terms, when he is out of his Time. But though these Conditions are very advantageous, and the Countrey promises to the Planter Health, Plenty and Riches at a cheap Rate, yet there is one thing that makes this Plantation more valuable than all these, and that is the secure possession of all these things with as great certainty as the state of humane Affairs, and the transient things of this Life are capable of, in a well continu’d Form of Government, wherein it is made every Man’s Interest to preserve the Rights of his Neighbor with his own; and those who have the greatest Power, have it limited to the Service of the Countrey, the Good and Welfare whereof whilest they preserve and promote, they cannot miss of their own, the Lords Proprietors having no other aim, than to be the greatest Men in a Countrey where every one may be happy if it be not his own fault, it being almost as uncomfortable, and much more unsafe, to be Lord over, than Companion of a miserable, unhappy, and discontented Society of Men. With this Design the Lords-Proprietors, who are at great Charge for carrying on this Plantation, have put the framing of a Government into the Hands of one, whose Parts and Experience in Affairs of State are universally agreed on, and who is by all Men allow’d to know what is convenient for the right ordering Men in Society, and setling a Government upon such Foundations, as may be equal, safe, and lasting; and to this hath a Soul large enough to wish well to Mankind, and to desire, that all the People where he hath to do might be happy. My Lord _Ashley_ therefore, by the consent of his Brethren, the rest of the Lords Proprietors, hath drawn up, to their general satisfaction, some fundamental Constitutions, which are since, by their joynt approbation, confirm’d to be the Model and Form of Government in the Province of _Carolina_; the main Design and Ballance thereof (according to the best of my memory, having had a Copy thereof) in short is as followeth: [Sidenote: The Model drawn up by the Lord _Ashley_ for the Government of _Carolina_.] 1. Every County is to consist of forty square Plots, each containing twelve thousand Acres. Of these square Plots each of the Proprietors is to have one, which is to be call’d a _Signiory_. Eight of these square Plots are to be divided amongst the three Noble-men of that County, _viz._ a _Landgrave_, who is to have four of them; and two _Casiques_, who are to have each of them two apiece; and these square Plots belonging to the Nobility, are to be call’d _Baronies_. The other twenty four square Plots, call’d _Colonies_, are to be the Possession of the People: And this Method is to be observ’d in the Planting and Setting out of the whole Countrey; so that one Fifth of the Land is to be in the Proprietors, one Fifth in the Nobility, and three Fifths in the People. 2. The _Signories_ and _Baronies_, that is, the hereditary Lands belonging to the Proprietors and Nobility, are all entirely to descend to their Heirs, with the Dignity, without power of alienation, more than for three Lives, or one and twenty years, or two Thirds of their _Signiories_ and _Baronies_, and the rest to be _Demesne_. 3. There will be also some Mannors in the Colonies, but none less than three thousand Acres in a Piece, which, like the rest of the Colony Lands, will be alienable, onely with this difference, that it cannot be parcell’d out, but if sold, it must be altogether. 4. There is to be a Biennial Parliament, consisting of the eight Proprietors, the _Landgraves_ and _Casiques_, and one out of every Precinct, that is the six neighboring Colonies, for the People, chosen by the Freeholders; these are to sit and Vote altogether for the making of Laws, which shall be in force no longer than sixty years after their Enacting, the great mischief of most Governments, by which not onely the People are mightily entangled by multiplicity of Rules and Penalties, and thereby laid open to the Malice and Designs of troublesom Men and cunning Projectors; but, which is far worse, the whole frame of the Government in tract of time comes to be remov’d from its original Foundation, and thereby becomes more weak and tottering. 5. There are eight supream Courts for the dispatch of all publick Affairs; the first consists of the _Palatine_, who is the eldest of the Proprietors, and hath power to call Parliaments, and dispose of publick Offices. The other seven supream Courts are, 1. The chief Justices for the determining of Controversies of _Meum_ and _Tuum_, and judging of Criminals. 2. The Chancellors, for passing of Charters, and managing the State Matters of the Province. 3. The High-Constables, for Military Affairs. 4. The Admirals, for Maritime Affairs. 5. The High-Stewards, for Trade. 6. The Treasurers, for the publick Stock; and 7. The Chamberlains, for Ceremonies, Fashions, Marriages, Burials, _&c._ These are the seven supream Courts, to whom lies the ultimate Appeal in all Causes belonging to them. Each of these Courts consists of one Proprietor, and six other Councellors, whereof two are chosen by the Nobility, and two by the People. All the number of these eight Courts joyn’d together make the Grand Council, which are in the nature of a Council of State, and are entrusted with the management of Affairs of greatest concernment. There is also in every County a Court, and in every Precinct another; from the Precinct Court there lies an Appeal to the County Court, and from the County Court to the Proprietors Court, to which the Matter in question belongs, and there is the last decision and determination thereof, without any farther Appeal. And to keep the People from the Charges and vexation of long Suits, to the enriching of Men cunning in Words, care is taken, that no Cause shall be Try’d more than once in any one Court, and that profess’d Pleaders for Money shall not be allow’d. _Liberty of Conscience_ is here also allow’d in the greatest latitude, but yet so, that neither Atheists, or Men of no Religion, are permitted; Atheism, Irreligion, and vicious Lives being condemn’d, as disagreeable to humane Nature, inconsistent with Government and Societies, and destructive to all that is useful to, or becoming of Mankind; as on the other hand, rigorous Imposing of, and hot Contentions about the Ceremonies and Circumstances of Religion, is an occasion of perpetual Strife, Faction and Division, keeps Men from sedate and temperate Enquiries after Truth, eats out the great Cement of humane Conversation, _Charity_, and cannot be found in any one, who hath but modesty enough to think himself less than a _Pope_, and short of _Infallibility_. There is also to be a Register of all Grants and Conveyances of Land, to prevent even the occasions of Controversies and Law-Suits. There are several other less considerable Particulars in this Government, all contriv’d and design’d for the good and welfare of the People; all which are so well put together, and in such equal proportion ballance each other, that some judicious Men who have seen it, say, it is the best and fairest Frame, for the well-being of those who shall live under it, of any they have seen or read of. [Illustration] CHAP. III. Florida. [Sidenote: Situation and Bounds.] South-West of _Virginia_ lieth the spacious Countrey of _Florida_, remarkable hitherto rather by the great pains which the _Spaniards_ have taken, and the ill Successes they have met with in the discovery and search of this Province, than by any thing else they have discover’d in it answerable to their desires. On the East it hath the _Atlantick Ocean_, or _Mare del Nordt_; on the South, and South-West, the Gulph of _Mexico_ and _Mare Virginium_; and full West, part of _New Gallicia_, and some other Countreys, not yet perfectly known. [Sidenote: _Ponce_’s Expedition.] [Sidenote: Water to make old People look young.] This Countrey is also one of those, said to have been first of all discover’d by Sir _Sebastian Cabot_, at the Charges of the King of _England_, about the Year 1497. but afterwards more throughly search’d into by _John Ponce de Leon_, a _Spaniard_, who in the Year 1512. set Sail with three Ships out of the Haven _St. German_ in _Porto Rico_, North-West to the Isles _Del Veio_, _Caycos_, _Yaguna_, _Amaguyao_, _Manegua_, and _Guanahani_, first discover’d by _Christopher Colonus_, and call’d _St. Salvador_: After that Steer’d North-West by a Coast, which (because of its pleasant prospect) was call’d _Florida_ or (according to the more common Opinion) because it was on _Palm-Sunday_, which the _Spaniards_ call _Pascha de Flores_, (or _Pascha Florida_) that he Landed here: And to find out a Haven he kept sight of the Shore, which appear’d South-West from him. Here the Ships met with so strong a Tide, that notwithstanding they had a fresh Gale of Wind, yet could they not stem it; one of the Ships was driven to Sea out of sight; the other two casting Anchor, which raking, drove toward the Shore; whither, being beckned by the _Indians_, they immediately went; when no sooner he Landed, but they ran in great Companies to make themselves Masters of the Vessels, kill’d one _Spaniard_, and wounded two more: the Night approaching put an end to the Fight. From hence Sailing to the River _La Cruix_ for Wood and Water, they were resisted by sixty Natives, which they put to flight with their Guns, and took one Prisoner; after which they erected a Stone Cross. The Promontory, by which glides the strong Current, lies in twenty Degrees North-Latitude, and call’d _Cabo de Corrientes_, as the Row of Isles, before the Main Land _Los Martyres_, because the Cliffs at a distance appear like Men standing on Poles. Lastly, after some small Encounters with the _Floridans_, _Ponce_ return’d home, being onely inform’d falsly by the _Indians_, that in _Florida_ was a River, and on the Isle _Bimini_ a Fountain, whose Waters made old People young. [Sidenote: _Vasquez_’s Expedition to _Florida_.] [Sidenote: Habit of a _Floridan_ King.] But after this _Florida_ remained not unvisited; for eight years after the foremention’d Voyage, _Lucas Vasquez de Aylom_ weighed Anchor with two Ships from _Hispaniola_, to fetch Slaves from the adjacent Isles for the Gold-Mines, which Labor the Natives were not able to perform: therefore steering his Course Northwardly, he Sail’d along the Coast of _Chicoa_ and _Gualdape_, by them call’d _Cabo de St. Helena_, and _Rio Jordan_, where the Natives look’d upon the Ships as Sea-Monsters, and seeing Bearded Men in them, fled: the _Spaniards_ pursuing them, overtook one Man and a Woman; who being well Entertain’d, and Clad in _Spanish_ Habits, made the Strangers so acceptable to their Countrey-men, that their King sent fifty Men Aboard of them with Provisions, and to invite the Sea-men to his Dominions. The King sat with a great Cloth about him, made fast on his Shoulders, covering his Belly, Breast and Back with the Lappet thereof, and being long, was held up by one of his Servants; over one of his Shoulders hung a String of Pearl that came three times about, and reach’d down to his Thighs; on his Head he wore a Cap full of Ribbonds; his Arms and Legs were also surrounded with a double Chain of Pearl; in his right Hand he held a very rich Staff: But the Queen went almost naked, onely a piece of a wild Beasts Skin hung down before her from her left Shoulder to her mid-Leg, and a double String of Pearl about her Neck hung down between her Breasts, and her Hair Comb’d behind reach’d down to the Calves of her Legs; about her Wrists and Ancles hung also Strings of Pearl. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Treachery of _Vasquez_.] [Sidenote: _Indians_ misused.] On the King’s Command, the _Spaniards_ were permitted to make inspection into the Countrey, in which they were every where courteously Entertain’d, and not without Gold and Silver Presents. Returning Aboard, _Vasquez_ invited the _Indians_ to go with him, under pretence of returning them thanks for the Favours which they had bestowed upon him; but no sooner had he gotten a considerable number in his Ships, but he set Sail, and losing one Ship, arriv’d with the other safe at _Hispaniola_ with a few _Indians_, for most of them with grief and hunger died at Sea, and those that remain’d alive, liv’d on dead Carrion. [Sidenote: _Vasquez_ defeated by the _Floridans_.] Some few years after, _Vasquez_ receiving Letters Patent from the Court of _Spain_ for the Government of _Florida_, fitted out a Ship thither in 1620. which brought a good Return of Gold, Silver, and Pearls; whereupon he himself went not long after, and coming into the River _Jordan_, lost one of his Ships, which proved not the worst Accident; for Landing two hundred Men, they were all of them either slain or wounded by the Inhabitants; so that _Vasquez_ was forc’d to sound a Retreat: And after that the _Spaniards_ were less willingly drawn to that Coast, and the rather, because the Inhabitants seem’d poor, and had little Gold but what they procur’d from the _Otapales_ and _Olugatono_’s, sixty Leagues Northward up in the Countrey. [Sidenote: _Narvaez_ his Expedition.] [Sidenote: Strange Booty.] [Sidenote: He is in great extremity.] [Sidenote: _Cabeca_ is Stranded.] [Sidenote: His strange Entertainment at _Malhado_.] Notwithstanding these unsuccessful Expeditions, _Pamphilus Narvaez_ retain’d so much Courage, that obtaining Letters Patents from the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth, he fitted out four Sail and a Brigantine, weigh’d Anchor from _Cuba_ with six hundred Men and eighty Horse, in the Year 1528. On _Florida_ he Landed three hundred Foot and forty two Horse; they found many empty Huts, but in a great House a golden Bell hid amongst the Nets, Chests full of Merchandise, and in each a dead Body cover’d with Beast Skins, and painted; Pieces of Linnen Cloth, and Wedges of Gold, which they had from the remote Countrey _Apalache_. _Narvaez_, though against the Opinion of _Nunnez Cabeca_, march’d up into the Countrey, whilst the Fleet was to stand along the Shore, and travelling fifteen days saw neither House nor Man, onely here and there some _Palmito_-Trees: Crossing a River on Floats, they were Encountred by two hundred of the Natives; of which the _Spaniards_, having routed them, took six Prisoners, who furnish’d them plentifully with _Indian_ Wheat. After this they march’d fifteen days farther, without discerning the least foot-step of a Man; but at last they met an _Indian_ Lord with a considerable Train, before whom march’d several Pipers: being told by _Narvaez_ that his Journey was for _Apalache_, he conducted the _Spaniards_ with a _Canoo_ over a River, and Landing again, walk’d with them to his Village, where he Entertain’d them with great civility. _Narvaez_, after a long and troublesom Journey, came at last in sight of _Apalache_, a Village which contained two hundred and forty Straw Houses, built between the Mountains on a Moorish Soyl, full of Nut, Pine, and Savine-Trees, Oaks, Laurel, and short _Palmito_’s, besides the Trees, which blown down in several places by a strong Wind from between the Hills, and lying cross, cumber the High-ways: There are many deep Pools, and also Bears, Lyons, and other ravenous Creatures, which make the Ways very dangerous. _Narvaez_ falling suddenly on the Village, took the _Casique_ Prisoner, as also store of Wheat, Mortars to pound it, Hides, and Thred-spun Cloaks. Here he rested twenty five days, during which time some of his Men Journey’d farther into the Countrey, yet found none but poor People, troublesom Ways, and an unfruitful Soyl: twice they were set upon by the Natives, who kill’d some of the Horses and Men: They being a very strong People run stark naked, and as swift as a Deer, Diving under Water from the _Spaniards_ Bullets; which not a little amazing _Narvaez_, he thought it convenient to set upon the Village _Aute_, lying on the Shore: Nine days he was in a miserable condition before he got any Wheat, Pease, or other Provisions from this Village; the getting whereof cost him very dear, for the Villagers behav’d themselves so valiantly, that they kill’d many _Spaniards_, and some of their Horses, which since they left the Haven of _St. Cruce_ had travell’d two hundred and eighty Leagues; so that being tir’d and out of heart, they could not carry the Sick and Wounded, who not able to go, fell down dead in the Way: whereupon it was judg’d convenient to make five Barques, in which they made their Shirts serve for Sails, the Horses Tails and Mayns for Ropes, their Skins to hold fresh Water; with which putting out to Sea, they saw no Land in seven days; and running through the Straights of _St. Miguell_, Steer’d along the Coast of _Rio del Palmes_; where they suffer’d great Drought, insomuch that some drinking salt Water, died thereof: at last Landing, they were in the Night set upon by a _Casique_, who having given _Narvaez_ a great Wound in the Face, fled, leaving behind him a Sable Cloak, scented with Amber; three days they rang’d again along the Sea-shore, when the Barque of _Nunnez Cabeca_ being behind, was by Storm driven on the Shore, where a hundred _Indians_ waited to cut them off, but were pacifi’d with some Trifles: Thus being bereav’d of Arms, Provision, and all manner of Necessaries, they found themselves on an Isle, by the Inhabitants call’d _Malhado_, where they were lodg’d and maintain’d so long as they had any thing left; but Famine grew at last to such a heighth, that they devour’d one another, and in a short time of eighty Men there remain’d onely four alive, _viz._ _Nunnez Cabeca_, _Castillo_, _Orantes_, and _Estevanico_, who at last by Land reach’d to _New Gallicia_, and soon after to _Mexico_, having escap’d a thousand Dangers. Of _Pamphilus Narvaez_ never any tydings being heard, it is suppos’d he was drown’d. [Sidenote: _Sottus_’s Expedition very remarkable.] [Sidenote: Strange dealing of the _Cofachiquians_.] [Sidenote: A Maid Governs the Countrey.] [Sidenote: Great Treasure of Pearls.] [Sidenote: Great Tempest.] [Sidenote: _Sottus_’s farther Journey very remarkable.] [Sidenote: The City _Mavilla_.] [Sidenote: Cruel Fight.] [Sidenote: _Sottus_ dies.] [Sidenote: Strange Fight.] After this miserable Adventure, the Business of _Florida_ lay dead for eleven years, till _Ferdinandus Sottus_, chosen Governor of _Cuba_, obtain’d so much of the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth, that he ventur’d one Expedition more for _Florida_: Besides Seamen he carried five hundred Foot, and three hundred and fifty Horse; with which Landing in the Bay _Del Espirito Santo_, he march’d against the Casique _Vitacucho_, whom he took Prisoner, with a thousand of the Natives, whom he either put to the Sword, or caus’d them to be torn in pieces by Dogs; and staying all the Winter in _Apalache_, fortifi’d that place, and furnish’d himself with Provisions; he was inform’d, that thirteen days Journey from thence lay the Kingdom of _Cofachiqui_, abounding with Gold, Silver, and Pearls, which made every one of the _Spaniards_ very desirous to go thither, notwithstanding the Way was very dangerous; for the valiant _Floridans_ lying in Ambuscade in the Corn-Fields, wounded and kill’d many of them by Shooting from thence. _Sottus_, so soon as _March_ approached, set forward on his Way. In the poor Province of _Achalaqui_ he found a few young People, and the old most of them blind. From _Cofachiqui_ he was follow’d by four thousand Natives, who carried the _Spaniards_ Luggage, and serv’d them as Guides through Woods and Wildernesses. The seventh day they stopp’d at a great River, whither _Sottus_ sent four Companies to seek out a Passage over, whereof three return’d without any effect, but the fourth, Commanded by Captain _Annasio_, and a Colonel of a thousand _Cofachiquians_, came to a Village built along the River; in which they made a miserable Rout, killing all they lighted on, and hanging the Sculls of the Dead by their sides: this done, they march’d back. _Sottus_ at last espying a Village on the other side of the River, beckned to the Natives to come over to him; whereupon six came immediately; who understanding that he desir’d their friendly Assistance and Trade, promis’d to acquaint their Governess, being a young Maiden: who soon after came over to _Sottus_, and presented him with a String of Pearl: he complain’d to her for Provisions, which she promis’d in part to store him with. Crossing the River he found a brave Countrey, where were Pearls as big as gray Pease, Copper of a golden colour, but no Gold. Out of the Tombs of their Princes the _Spanish_ Officers, with the leave of the fore-mention’d Maid their Governess, got an incredible Treasure in Pearls. In the Village _Tolomeco_ they did the like. But here their Provisions growing scarce, the Army was divided into two Bodies, _Balthasar de Gallegos_ leading one, and _Sottus_ the other; yet the Design of them both was on the Province of _Chalaque_; whither marching, they were surpris’d by such a violent Storm, that few would have been left to relate their Adventures, had not the Trees bore it off from them; for it not onely Thundred and Lightned as if Heaven and Earth would have met, but also Hail-stones fell down as big as Eggs, which beat down the Boughs of Trees. In the pleasant Valley _Xualu_, belonging to the Kingdom of _Cofachiqui_, they rested fifteen days, and then march’d through Countreys of _Guaxale_, _Acostes_, and _Coza_, where above a thousand _Indians_, adorn’d with Plumes of Feathers and rich Furr Cloaks, came to meet and welcom them, and to desire them from the _Casique_ to stay there all the Winter; but _Sottus_ resolving to go to the Haven _Achusi_, refus’d the same. After this he view’d _Talisse_, fortifi’d with woodden and earthen Bulwarks; where the Casique _Tascalusa_, a Man as big again as an ordinary _Spaniard_, receiv’d _Sottus_ with great civility, and conducted him to _Mavilla_, lying in a pleasant place. The City, surrounded with double Pallisado’s, fill’d up with Earth between, (where also at eighty Paces distant from one another, stands a Tower to contain eighty Soldiers) hath two Gates, eighty Houses, in every one of which dwell a thousand Men, and a large Market-place in the middle; where whilst the _Spaniards_ were in the midst of their Mirth, they on a sudden heard a great cry of Arms; the first Assault was made by seven thousand, which still increased by fresh Supplies; but the _Spaniards_ at last setting the City on fire, broke through them, and left above eleven thousand slain, either by the Smoak and Flame, or by their Bullets, Swords, Horses Heels and Dogs; the _Spaniards_ also lost eighty three Men and forty three Horses. Thence going to _Chicora_ they were stopt by the Natives before a deep River with high Banks, which at last crossing, not without great trouble and blood-shedding, they Winter’d in the Village _Chicora_, where the Inhabitants let them rest very quietly for two Moneths; at the end of which, joyning together in the Night, they shot fire into the Straw Roofs, and maintain’d a Fight of two hours long, in which the _Spaniards_ lost forty Men, fifty Horses, and all their Hogs, which were burnt in the Houses. From thence going to _Chicacolla_ they were resisted in most places, and in the Fort _Alibamo_ Engag’d by four thousand _Floridans_, who waited for their coming; but those were so shrewdly handled, that half of them were slain, and _Sottus_ became Master of the Fort, as also of _Chisca_, which he Storm’d and took unawares. With no less trouble and danger did he get over the River _El Grande_, where he discover’d a Village that contain’d above four hundred Houses, and many delightful Fruit-Trees. The Casique _Casquin_, maintain’d the _Spanish_ Army six days in this place, and taking five thousand of his Subjects, march’d with them to _Capaha_, which hath a deep and broad Moat on three sides thereof: the fourth was fortifi’d with strong Pallisado’s, through which the _Spaniards_ breaking, made way for _Casquin_, who put all to the Sword, the Governor onely escaping in a _Canoo_ to a neighboring Isle. The Entrance being thus taken by the _Spaniards_, _Casquin_ return’d home. After which _Sottus_ concluded a Peace with _Capahaes_ the Governor, and took up his Quarters in the Village _Vitangue_, where he receiv’d continual Sallies; but taking fifteen _Casiques_ Prisoners, threatned to burn them alive, unless they would procure them some Gold; yet not being able to get any, they had only their Hands cut off and were sent away. Moreover, _Sottus_ help’d the _Guachacoya_’s, to ruine those of _Anilco_; which Design prov’d successful, yet not according to _Sottus_’s desire, for he found not the Gold-Mines which he expected, but spent in this five years Progress the great Treasure which he took out of _Atibaliba_’s Palace; and the Pearls which he got in _Florida_, for the Oysters being open’d against the Fire, and the Pearls drill’d through with a hot Iron, lost much of their lustre, neither would his People consent to build a City in the Haven _Achusi_. In the midst of these Transitions _Sottus_ died of the Bloody-flux, and his Body was Interr’d in the River _El Grande_. After which his Successor _Ludovicus de Alvarado_ had worse success, for half of the Army being wasted by the excessive heat, the rest resolv’d to desert _Florida_, utterly despairing to be ever able to resist the valiant Natives. In the Province of _Auche_ they procur’d a Guide, whom, because he mis-led them in their Way, they caus’d to be torn in pieces by their Dogs: after which they march’d without a Guide through such bad Ways, that they lost a hundred of their Men and eighty Horses, besides many _Floridans_ that carried their Luggage: At last coming to the River _El Grande_ they conquer’d two Villages; which fortifying, they took up their Winter Quarters in them. But this being the fourteenth year, in which the River us’d generally to overflow and drown all the adjacent Countreys, on a sudden, to their great amazement, the Wood which they had gather’d for the building of Barques to carry them home, was wash’d away, their Provisions spoil’d, and their Habitations drown’d: and to this Inconvenience was added another yet greater; for the Governors round about rais’d all the Forces they could possibly, to revenge themselves on the _Spaniards_ for their great oppression. But _Alvarado_ being inform’d of this Design by the Casique _Anilco_, caus’d thirty of the Abettors of the Plot to have their Hands cut off. Not long after this the _Spaniards_ set Sail, when a thousand _Canoos_ that came to Engage them lay sixteen days amongst them, killing and wounding several of the Seamen, and sunk a Barque with forty eight Men, and also kill’d many Horses which were yet on the Shore; the Prisoners they took were strappado’d to death, and the Horses shot: yet some of them got safe from _Panuco_ to _Mexico_. [Sidenote: Expedition of _Ahumada_ and _Samano_.] These above-mention’d Expeditions to _Florida_, notwithstanding they fell out unfortunately, nevertheless by the permission of _Philip_ the Second, King of _Spain_, _Peter Ahumada_ and _Julius Samano_, with five _Dominican_ Monks, made another Attempt, and Landed with several great Crosses, that thereby they might reduce the _Floridans_, whose Language they understood not, to their Faith: But they fearing treachery, resisted them, and kill’d the Monks with Clubs, flay’d them, and hung their Skins in their Temples. [Sidenote: The Expedition of _Menendez_.] Notwithstanding these and many worse Accidents that hapned, yet the _Spanish_ King ventur’d once more, and sent _Peter Menendez_ to _Florida_; whither he was follow’d by three _Jesuits_ from _Rome_, _viz._ _Peter Martinius_, _Joan Roger_, and _Francis Villaregius_: The Master of the Ship in which they went being ignorant where he was, judg’d it convenient to Land; whereupon nine _Netherlanders_ and four _Spaniards_, amongst which was _Martinius_, went ashore on _Florida_, whilst a Storm arising drove the Ship to _Cuba_; by which means those that were Landed were left in a miserable condition, having no Food but wild Herbs, on which they fed twelve days: so that this Expedition also came to nothing. [Sidenote: Voyage of _Ribald_ and _Laudoniere_.] At last the _French_ following the foot-steps of the _Spaniards_, _John Ribald_ and _Rene Laudoniere_ having Sail’d several times to _Florida_, discover’d several Coasts; but their Men were often set upon by the _Spaniards_, and cut off. [Sidenote: The Expedition of _Dominicus Gurgius_.] [Sidenote: Valiant Exploit of _Gurgius_.] _Anno 1567._ _Dominicus Gurgius_ set Sail thither with three Ships, which carried two hundred Soldiers and eighty Sea-men; with which entring the River _Tacatucouru_ he Landed, and found a Youth call’d _Peter du Bre_, who escap’d when the _Spaniards_ cruelly massacred the _French_ in the Garrison _Carolina_; after which _du Bre_ ranging up and down, at last serv’d _Saturiona_, Governor of _Florida_; whom deserting, and now meeting with the _French_ his Countrey-men, he brought several _Casiques_ to joyn with them against the _Spaniards_, whom they drove out of three Forts, which were all by the Command of _Gurgius_ dismanteled. [Sidenote: City _Augustine_.] _Florida_ is call’d by the Natives, _Irquasa_. The _Spaniards_ have built two Forts on the same, the one erected on the Promontory _Helena_, is Consecrated to the Apostle _Matthew_. The City and the Fort _Augustine_ lies near the River _May_. Both City and Fort stand on a Hill, which is pleasant and well set with Trees. Between the _Foreland_ is a deep and wide Channel, which washes the City and Fort; it is eight-square, at each corner there stands a round Tower, in which the Soldiers keep Guard; the Countrey is water’d by two Rivers, which gliding between the _Main_ and the _Foreland_, are great Safeguards to the Fort. The City is almost square, onely against the Fort it is much closer built than in any other place, and divided into four Streets. The Church stands without of the City, and before it the _Augustine_ Cloyster. [Illustration: PAGUS HISPANORUM in Florida] [Illustration] [Sidenote: Constitution of the _Floridans_.] [Sidenote: Their strange Consultation.] [Sidenote: Their Food in time of War.] [Sidenote: Their Priests are Sorcerers.] [Sidenote: Strange actions.] [Sidenote: Cruelty on the conquer’d.] [Sidenote: Remarkable Mourning for the Dead.] The Inhabitants of _Florida_ are an Olive colour, tall, and without any deformity; their Skins generally painted, and their Bodies naked, onely a Deer’s Skin about their middle, their Hair long and black, hanging down to their Hams, but most of them tie it in a Knot on the top of their Heads; two small Boards cover their Breasts, and six lesser hang on their Arms, two Bells at each Ear, and a Cap on their Head, with a Feather: Their Quivers, which are always full of Arrows, sharpned with Fish Bones, hang by their Sides; In their left-Hand they hold a great Bowe, with which they go to War, the King walking before with a Club. They Consult daily about warlike Affairs in the King’s Palace, where he himself sits on a high Seat; the Grandees salute him first with their Hands lifted over their Head, crying _Ha, He, Ya_, at which the rest cry _Ha, Ha_; then every one sits down on a Stool round about the Room. If they have any Business of Consequence to debate, then the King sends for the ancientest Persons and Priests, call’d _Jawas_; this done, they give a Cup of _Cassine_ (which is a hot Drink made of Herbs) to the King; after which every one drinks in order out of the same Cup. This Liquor occasions Sweat, quenches Thirst, and satisfies the Appetite for twenty four hours. When they March against their Enemies they live on _Indian_ Wheat, Honey, smoak’d Fish, and divers sorts of wild Roots, amongst which they mix Sand and Cinders, to preserve them the longer. No sooner are the two Armies come within sight one of another, but the Kings of both Parties roll their Eyes about in their Heads, mutter something to themselves, and make strange Gestures and Exclamations; which is answer’d by a general Cry of the whole Army: then each King turning himself with great Reverence to the Sun, takes a woodden Platter with Water, which he throws over his Army so far as he is able, and begs of the Sun to grant him, that he may spill his Enemies Blood in like manner; then throws another Dish-full into the Fire, wishing that his Soldiers may thus Offer the Bodies of their Foes to the Flames; then step forth the Priests, who are always skill’d in the Art of Necromancy, and seating themselves on a Shield in the midst of the Army, draw a Circle, in which they make many strange Gestures, not without muttering to themselves, and seemingly say a Prayer of a quarter of an hour long; during which they deport themselves so strangely, that they rather seem to be Devils themselves, than Charmers of the Devil: They turn their Eyes quite round, and their Bodies as if without Joynts; at length being wearied they leap out of the Circle, and inform the King of the number and condition of the Enemies Army. Those whom they take Prisoners they flay alive, and drying their Skins at the Fire, tie them to long Poles, and carry them home as Trophies of their Victory, and afterwards set them up in some Field or spacious place, putting both Men and Women to watch them; then comes the Priest with a woodden Image, and utters Execrations against the slain Enemies; at a corner of the Fields kneel three Men, one of which striking with great force on a Stone, gives as many Blows as the Priest pronounces Curses, whilst the other two shake their _Calabashes_ fill’d with Stones, and Sing many strange Songs: No sooner is this ended, but the Women whose Husbands are slain in the Battel, walking to the King, cover their Faces with their Hands, make many strange Gestures, and desire liberty to take what revenge they can, and licence also to Marry at the limited time; all which the King permitting, they return thus comforted home crying. Not long after they go to the place where their Husbands lie buried, where they crop their Hair up to their Ears, and throw it on the Grave, as also the Arms and Drinking-Cups which the Deceased us’d in their life-time; after which they may not Marry before their Hair be grown again to their Shoulders. The same Custom is also observ’d when their King is buried but then also all his Subjects Fast and Howl three days together, stick his Grave full of Arrows, and burn his House and all his Goods. [Sidenote: _Floridans_ differ amongst themselves.] The _Floridans_ differ amongst themselves very much, for those that inhabit the Province _Panuca_, which borders upon _New Spain_, are valiant and cruel People, Offering their Prisoners to their Idols, and eating them. The Men pluck up the Hair of their Beards by the Root, make holes through their Nose and Ears, and Marry not till their fortieth Year. Next to these follow the Realms of _Aranaris_ and _Albardaosia_, inhabited by a People, which exceed all others in subtilty. The Natives of _Jaquazia_ run faster than a Deer, and tire not though they travel a whole day. [Sidenote: Hermophrodites.] The best Swimmers are found in _Alpachia_, _Authia_, and _Someria_, where the Women Swim through deep and great Rivers with their Children in their Arms. Here also are many Hermophrodites, which carry all the Luggage when an Army is upon a March. [Sidenote: Their manner of taking Crocodiles.] [Sidenote: As also their Deer.] We find mention’d also two other Provinces of note, _viz._ _Colas_ (which lies near the Point call’d _Cape Florida_) and _Tegista_, or _Florida_ properly so call’d, being that long _Peninsula_, which pointing upon the Isle _Cuba_, by the Cape _Los Martyres_, stretcheth it self North and South about a hundred Leagues in length, but not above thirty in breadth where it is largest. In this Province is the _Rio de lo Spirito Santo_. The Soyl, though it produces _Indian_ Wheat twice a year, yet it is never Dung’d, but when the Corn (which is planted in _March_ and _June_) is in, they burn the Weeds; the Ashes of which serves them in stead of Soil. The King divides the Corn according to every Mans Family. In the Winter they dwell four Moneths in the Woods, where they build small Huts of Palm-boughs, feed on Venison, smoak’d Fish, and Crocodiles, which have pure white Flesh, and are caught after this manner: On the Shore of the Rivers they build little Houses full of round Holes, in which they place a Watch, who is to give notice to ten or twelve Associates, cover’d all over with Boughs full of little sharp Prickles, which they thrust into the Crocodiles Throat, who with open Mouth comes running at them, and so throwing him on his Back, stick his Belly full of Arrows, and kill him with Clubs. But with more subtilty and art they take their Deer, _viz._ They hide themselves under a Stags Skin, so cunningly, that it seems as if living, which they place near the Rivers where the Deer generally come to drink, when on a sudden they shoot them. [Sidenote: _Floridans_, though libidinous, yet live long.] Their Priests serve in stead of Chirurgeons, wherefore they always carry a Bag full of Herbs about with them, which are chiefly good against venereal Distempers; for these People are exceeding libidinous; nay, Sodomy and defiling of young Children is accounted no sin: Yet though they are much inclin’d to Women, they attain to a great Age. _Rene Laudoniere_ Landing not far from the City _Augustine_, situate on the Banks of the River _May_, met with the _Floridan_ Governor _Saturiona_, who conducted him to the _French_ King’s Court of Arms, erected two years before, which _Saturiona_, as a testimony of his zeal to the _French_, had Crown’d with Laurel and Flowers. _Saturiona_ had with him also his Son _Atoreus_, who had begotten divers Children on his Mother; whom his Father after that time no more acknowledging, resign’d her up wholly to him: At which time also his great Grandfather being then living, was above a hundred and fifty years old, and saw his Childrens Children to the fifth Generation. [Sidenote: Their horrid Religion.] The Religion in _Florida_ is abominable, wicked, and cruel: When they return Conquerors from a Battel, the old Women rake off the dry’d Hair from the fore-mention’d Poles, hold it aloft, and thank the Sun for their Victory. But the Offerings of their first-born Sons are terrible, for they knock out their Brains with a Club in the presence of the King. Their annual worshipping of the Sun is also very ridiculous; for filling the Skin of a Stag full of sweet-smelling Herbs, they hang the Horns and Neck with Garlands, and carry it with the noise of their kind of Vocal and Instrumental Musick, to a high Trunk or hollow Body of a Tree, on which they place the stuff’d Stag, with his Head towards the Sun; which done, they falling down, desire that he would please to afford them plenty of all such Fruit as they Offer to him; after which taking their leave, they let the fore-mention’d Skin remain there till the following Year. The _Spaniards_ since their Defeat in the Fort _Carolina_, and their Engagement with Sir _Francis Drake_, _Anno 1585._ have had little disturbance on _Florida_. [Sidenote: _Drake_’s Exploit on _Florida_.] _Drake_ having burnt and plunder’d _Domingo_ and _Carthagena_, steer’d along the Coast of _Florida_, and discover’d a Beacon on the same; whereupon he sent out Spies, who sail’d a League up a River, on whose Banks they saw a Fort, and somewhat higher the Town _Augustine_, built full of woodden Houses; all which being related to him, he steer’d thither, fir’d his Guns twice against the Fort _St. John_; which the _Spaniards_ answering onely with one Volley, fled, with their Commander _Peter Menendez_; when the _English_ prepar’d to Storm, a Prisoner, being a _French_-man, came in a Boat from them to _Drake_, and inform’d him that the _Spaniards_ had left the City _Augustine_ and Fort _St. John_; to which _Drake_ going, found there Pallisado’s of pleited Boughs, cover’d with Earth, and a Chest with two thousand Pound, for the payment of the Soldiers, and fourteen Brass Guns, with which he set Sail from thence. The Mountains of this Countrey are onely the _Apalatei_, suppos’d by the Natives to have rich Mines of Gold in them, and which the _Spaniards_ saw, but had not time, nor other accommodation to stay and search them, by reason they were so much wearied and wasted with a long March before they gat thither, and found the People so stout and obstinate thereabouts, that in stead of entertaining them with their Hens and Fowl, as other places had done, they were welcom’d with Blows, and made to return, leaving not a few of their best Soldiers behind. Rivers there are many, and those very large and commodious, as 1. _Rio Secco_, or _The Dry River_, so call’d by the _Spaniards_ (as some think) because they could find no Gold in it. 2. _Rio Grande_, or _The Great River_. 3. _Ligeris._ 4. _Garunna._ 5. _Sequana_, _&c._ These last, so nam’d by the _French_, who, after the _Spaniards_, for some time had, but never held any long possession of the Countrey. There are also _Rio de Flores_, _Rio de Nieves_, and _Rio de Spirito Santo_, lesser Streams, yet all of them, with the rest, falling at several places into the great Lake of _Mexico_; and some of them not a little haunted by the _Caymans_ or _West-Indian_ Crocodiles, a Creature, as hath been said before, dangerous both at Sea and Land. The Natives, who as yet hold Possession and Command of it for the most part, are themselves generally sorted into certain Tribes or great Families; all which are Govern’d severally by Chiefs of their own, whom they call _Paracoussi_, and by reason thereof are almost continually in Feud and War one with another. The Towns and Places most known in this Province, are 1. _St. Helens_, seated on or near unto a Promontory of the same Name, where this Countrey bordereth on _Virginia_. 2. _Fort Charles_, or _Arx Carolina_, built and so nam’d by the _French_ King, but afterwards ruin’d by the _Spaniards_. 3. _Port Royal_, a well frequented Haven, at the Mouth of a River which beareth the same Name. More within Land there is, 1. _Apalache_, an old Town of the Natives, formerly a Place of great resort, but now a poor thing of about forty or fifty Cottages; and yet as poor as it is, _Pamphilius Narvaez_, as before related, when he search’d the Countrey, found the Natives not willing to part with it: for though he took it from them, it was not without some resistance, and they quickly recover’d it again: and at the 2. nam’d _Aute_, another old Town of theirs, nine days March from the other, they overtook him, and fell so resolutely upon him, that he left not a few of his best Soldiers dead upon the place, and was content himself to march quietly away with the rest. 3. _Ochalis_, a Town consisting of about five or six hundred Sheds and Cottages likewise of the Natives. 4. _Vittacuche_, a Burrough of two hundred Houses. There is also on the Eastern Shore of this _Peninsula_, _St. Matthews_, a Place possess’d and well fortifi’d by the _Spaniards_; and _St. Augustines_ on the same Shore, but lying somewhat more Southerly than the other, at the Mouth of a River of the same Name, taken and sack’d by Sir _Francis Drake_ in the Year 1585. [Illustration: YUCATAN _Conventus Iuridici Hispaniæ Novæ Occidentalis, et_ GUATIMALA CONVENTUS IURIDICI] [Illustration: St. FRANCISCO DE CAMPECHE] SECT. II. Jucatan. _Jucatan_ is a _Peninsula_, or half-Island, being encompass’d with the Sea on all sides, save onely to the South-West, where it is joyn’d to _Guaxata_, its farther and more Easterly Point looking towards _Cuba_. The knowledge of, when, and by whom this Province was discover’d, is included in that of _New Spain_, of which some will have it to be a part. The whole Province contains in compass nine hundred Miles or more, and lies between eighteen and twenty two Degrees of Northern Latitude, or thereabouts, the Air somewhat hot, and the Soil not altogether so fertile as some other parts of _New Spain_ are; but in recompence thereof the People are so much the more industrious, living for the most part by Handicraft Trades. Neither is it altogether unstor’d with Corn and divers sorts of Fruits, besides what it hath of Fowl and Beasts, as Geese, Hens, Deer, _&c._ particularly it yieldeth plenty of Wax and Honey, by reason of its frequent Swarms of Bees. They report some special things of this Province, as namely, that the People of the Countrey us’d generally, and long before the _Spaniards_ came thither, a certain Ceremony of Religion, not much unlike to our Baptism, and which they call’d by a Name that in their Language signifi’d _Regeneration_, or _A Second-Birth_; that they observ’d it so diligently, that few or none amongst them omitted to initiate themselves by it, believing, that thereby the Seeds and Ground-work of all Goodness was laid in them, and that they were fortifi’d by it against the assaults and temptations of evil Spirits; that after they were three or four years old, till they came to twelve, they usually thus Wash’d and Baptiz’d themselves; and that none were permitted amongst them to Marry, that were not first initiated after this manner; that they chose likewise a solemn Day upon which to do this; and that the Friends and Relations (especially the Father and Mother) of the Parties to be initiated, as well as the Parties themselves, always Fasted three days before the said Initiation; and that a great many of the Natives had a Tradition, or general Report amongst them, that of ancient time this Province of _Jucatan_ was possess’d and cultivated by a certain People which came thither from the East, after a tedious long wanderring, and many hardships endur’d at Sea, having escap’d the Hands of their Enemies onely through the power of the Deity they worshipp’d; who help’d them, and made them to pass securely, even through the Waves of the Sea. All which, if true, seems not a little to confirm the Report which goeth for currant in the _Welsh_ Chronicles, of one _Madoc ap Owen_, the Son of _Guineth_, a Prince of that Countrey, who is said to have fall’n upon a far Countrey this way in his Travels; which he lik’d so well, that having secur’d to his Companions their safe abode there during his absence, he return’d himself into _Wales_ for more Men; and that he transported thither as many as he could carry in ten Barques full fraught. This he is said to have done about the Year of our Lord 1170. but neither he nor any of his Men were ever heard of since; and the success of the Expedition, it seems, little enquir’d after by the _Welsh_. However, the Relation seems not altogether incredible. The chief Towns of the Province are, 1. _Merida_, in the Navel of the Countrey, and the Seat of the Governor, twelve Leagues distant from the Sea on either side. 2. _Valladolidt_, thirty Leagues distant from _Merida_. 3. _Campeche_, a great Town, consisting of about three thousand Houses or more, when first conquer’d by the _Spaniards_; who found such Monuments of Art and Industry in it, as did clearly argue, that the Place had been once possess’d by some People that were not barbarous. It is now call’d _St. Francisco_, and was surpriz’d in the Year 1596. by Captain _Parker_, an _English_-man, who took the Governor himself and some other Persons of Quality with him, together with a Ship richly laden with Gold and Silver, besides other Commodities of good value. 4. _Tabasco_, by the _Spaniard_ now call’d _Villa de Nuestra Sennora de Victoria_, and commonly _Victoria_ onely, in memory, as ’tis thought, of the first great Victory which _Cortez_ obtain’d over these People at the Battel of _Potonchan_, as hath been said. 5. _Cintla._ 6. _Potonchan._ 7. _Salamanca._ All along the Coast of this Countrey there lie certain Islands, some within the Bay or Gulph call’d _Honduras_, pertaining to the next Province, as 1. _La Zarza._ 2. _La Desconescida._ 3. _Vermeia._ 4. _Los Negrillos_; and some without it, as 1. _Zaratan._ 2. _Pantoia._ 3. _De Mugeres_, or _The Island of Women_; so nam’d by the _Spaniards_, who at their first Discovery of these Parts, for a long time together could meet with none but Women. The chief of them is call’d _Acusamil_, commonly _Cozamul_, and is fifteen Leagues in length, and about five in breadth, and was as it were the Thorow-fare, or Common Road of the _Spaniards_, when they first discover’d the Countreys of _New Spain_: For first here Landed _Ferdinando de Corduba_; after him _John de Grialva_, and others; and last of all the fortunate _Cortez_. It is now call’d _St. Crux_. [Illustration] CHAP. IV. Guatimala. [Sidenote: Its Situation and Bounds.] _Guatimala_ stretcheth to the _Isthmus_, or Neck of Land, which, as we said, joineth the Northern and Southern parts of the _New World_ together. This Countrey is bounded Northward with the _Peninsula_ of _Jucatan_ abovesaid, and part of the Gulph or Bay of _Honduras_; on the South, with _Mare del Zur_; on the East and South-East, it hath _Castella Aurea_; and on the West, _New Spain_. The length of it lieth upon the Coast of _Mare del Zur_, and is said to be little less than three hundred Leagues; but the breadth not half so much, and in some places very narrow. It is generally a fertile and good Countrey in all respects, but especially abounding in Cattel and good Pastures; it is subdivided into seven inferior Provinces or Countreys, which are 1. _Chiapa._ 2. _Verapaz._ 3. _Honduras._ 4. _Nicaragua._ 5. _Veragua._ 6. _Costa Rica_; and 7. _Guatimala_, specially so call’d: all differing in Language and Customs one from another. The Bishoprick (as it is now call’d) of _Chiapa_ is border’d on the West with _New Spain_; on the East with _Vera Paz_; and on the South with _Mare del Zur_. It is a Countrey much shaded with Woods, and those replenish’d with many fair and goodly Trees, of divers sorts, and of the largest size, as Oaks, Pines, Cedar, Myrtle, and Cypress-Trees, besides others which yield them a good kind of Rozen, precious Gums, _&c._ also several sorts of Balsom, as white, red, green, and black, not onely pleasant to the Scent, but an excellent Remedy for all manner of green Wounds: the best of it drops out of the cut Bodies of the Trees; and the worst is press’d out of the Wood and Leaves. [Sidenote: Trees and Plants.] There are also proper to this Countrey several other kinds of Trees and Plants, as that whose Fruit tastes like Pepper and Cloves, being of a great heighth; a Tree whose Leaves cure all ulcerated Sores, or the bitings of any poysonous Beast. There is a sort of Cabbage call’d _Ilantas_, which grows to the heighth of a Tree, so that Birds make their Nests in them; they are eaten likewise like other common Cabbages. There is also an Herb with narrow Leaves, which is no sooner touch’d, but it shrinks up to nothing; but at the going away of those which touch it, it obtains its former vigour. [Sidenote: Birds.] Here are likewise Quails, Ducks, Geese, Pheasants, Parrots, Turtle-Doves, Pigeons, and the like, in great abundance. Amongst the several sorts of Falcons which breed in this Countrey, there is one sort which hath one Foot proper to its kind, the other like that of a Goose; it feeds on Fish along the Rivers. The Bird _Toto-Queztall_, which is somewhat smaller than a Pigeon, with green Feathers and a long Tail, is taken onely for its Tail, which when the _Indians_ have pull’d out, they let the Bird fly again, there being a Law amongst them, that whosoever kills one of them, is to suffer death. The Cranes here are of a dark Gray; the biggest of them have a tuft of Feathers like a Crown upon their Heads. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Birds.] The Birds _Guacamayes_, which are red and blue, are like a _Peruan_ Goose. [Sidenote: Beasts.] Moreover, the Countrey yields brave Horses, Goats, Sheep, Rabbets, and Foxes; also wild Dogs, Leopards, Lyons, and Tygers. The wild Hogs which breed here have their Navels on their Backs, and have no Tails, they smell exceeding strong, and feed together in great Companies. The _Taquatrin_, a certain Beast proper to those Parts, hath a Bag under its Belly, in which it generally carries seven or more young ones, and hath also a bald Tail; it creeps into Houses in the Night to steal Hens. Here is also a certain Beast (whose Name we find not) about the bigness of a Rabbet, and like a Rat, and carries its young ones on its back whensoe’re it comes abroad. The Serpents, which are very numerous here, trouble the Inhabitants exceedingly, especially near the Village _Ecatepeque_, where there are such an abundance on two little Hills, that none dares approach them; some of them are very poysonous, for if touch’d with a Stick, the Poyson runs up the same: and whoever are anointed with the Blood of a dead Serpent, die a lingring Death. _John de Laet_ relates, that the _Indians_ took one which carried thirty young ones, which being a Finger long, crep up and down immediately; and the old one, being above twenty Foot long, serv’d the Natives for Venison. Amongst other Beasts is also the _Teuthlacokauhqui_, or _Fortress of the Serpents_; it hath a Head like an Adder, thick Belly, glittering Scales, a black Back, sprinkled with white Crosses; at its Tail there grows yearly a Bone, with which it makes a noise when it stirs; its poysonous Teeth destroy those which are bit therewith in twenty four Hours, unless the part which is wounded be held in the Earth so long till the pain be over. Notwithstanding the noise, terrible aspect, and gestures of this Animal, the _Indian_ Hunters make nothing to take the same by the Tail, and wrap it up in Linnen, and carrying it home make it tame. It is able to live a whole Year without either Meat or Drink; its Head when cut off grows to the bigness of a Man’s Thigh in ten days time. No less resolute are the Indians in taking the _Ibitobaca_, which is an Ell long, of a crimson Colour, full of black and white Specks, the Bones whereof they wear about their Necks in stead of Chains. [Sidenote: The Serpent _Iquanna_.] The _Iquanna_ is a Serpent which doth no manner of hurt, though terrible to look upon to those which know it not, having a Bag under its Chin, a glittering Comb on its Head, and on its Back sharp Bones, which stand like a Saw, and a long Tail: It lays fifty Eggs at a time as big as Acorns, of a very good taste, and fit to eat when boyl’d: It also lives both in the Water and on the Land. [Sidenote: Baboons.] Here are also many Baboons, which are big and heavy, with ugly Heads, short Legs like a Man, and Tails standing upwards; they eat all sorts of Fruit, but chiefly covet after Wine and Bread; and are so lascivious, that they often set upon Women: The Females generally bring forth two, one Male, and the other Female. There is also another sort, whose Skins, being red, are full of little Spots. The ancient Inhabitants of _Chiapa_ (divided into the _Chiapaneca_’s, the _Zeques_, the _Zeltates_, and the _Quelenes_) are very Civil and Witty, also skilful in Painting, Singing, Breaking of Horses, and many other Trades. [Sidenote: Towns and Villages of Note.] The Places of more principal note in this Countrey, inhabited by the _Spaniards_, are 1. _Ciudad Real_, pleasantly seated in the midst of a round Vale or Plain, and almost encompass’d with Hills representing the form of an Amphitheatre; also at the Foot of one which stands in the midst of the rest, the City is built. It is a City specially Priviledg’d by the King of _Spain_, having a Court of Justice, Cathedral, and _Dominican_ Cloyster; of a pure and temperate Air, and the Countrey round about plentifully abounding both in Corn and Fruit, onely somewhat too cold to produce Lemmons and Oranges; but for Pears, Apples, Peaches, Quinces, Cherries, and the like, they grow here in great abundance. 2. _Chiapa_, which giveth Name to the Valley aforesaid; It is a Bishop’s See, and famous, if but for one of its Prelates, _viz._ _Bartholomeo de las Casas_, of the Order of _Predicants_, who was Bishop of this City, and his Memory justly precious amongst the poor _Americans_ at this day, for his Charity towards them, and for the stout and zealous opposition which he made against the _Spaniards_ cruel and inhumane dealings with the Natives at the beginning of their Conquests: by which at last, notwithstanding much difficulty and resistance made by interested Persons of the other Side, he procur’d them liberty, and an Edict from the Emperor in favor of them; whereby they were declar’d to be a Free People, and not Slaves, and the _Spaniards_ forbidden to use them any longer as such, or to force them to any kind of Labour against their wills, or otherwise than by agreement with them, which Liberty they enjoy to this day; and though the _Spaniards_ are said to give them very small Wages in some places, and for their Work in their Sugar-Mills (which is no small Labor) not above five _Reyals_, or Two shillings six pence a Week, for the Maintenance of themselves, their Wives and Children, yet by reason it is with Consent, and in a Countrey where all things are plentiful and cheap, their Condition is much better than it was, and the favor which that good Bishop did them, never to be forgotten. It is at present a great and populous City, and lieth almost in the mid-way betwixt the Cities of _Mexico_ and _Guatimala_. 3. _St. Bartholomews_, in the Countrey of the _Quelenes_. 4. _Tecpatlan_, the chief of twenty five Villages, said to belong to the _Zoques_. Here the _Dominicans_ have another Cloyster. The _Zeltates_ possess a fruitful Countrey, have thirteen Villages planted with Trees that yield _Cochenile_, being under a Common-wealth Government. The chief Place of the _Quelenes_ is _Copanavatzla_, where there is good Cheese, and store of brave Cattel: The River _Chiepa_ gliding through the midst thereof, loseth it self in the Northern Ocean. In this part of the Country are Beasts not unlike Apes, with long Tails, which they wind about the Legs of those whom they find swimming and so pull them under Water; wherefore they that go to Swim take Axes along with them, to cut off their Tails. The Water of the River _Blanco_ is clear and wholsom, running for the most part through Rocky Grounds, which nevertheless are overspread with Trees. In the highest Ground of _Chiapa_, a League and a half from the City _Reall_, spring clear Fountains, whose Water ebbs and flows every six hours. Near the Village call’d _Afixa_ is one which runs three years together, though in the driest Season, and is dry three years, though it Rain never so much. Not far from the Village _Cinacatan_ is another Spring, whose Water cures several Sicknesses, but kills all Birds and Beasts which drink of the same. Here are likewise divers Baths. The Rivers which run out of the Valley _Chiapa_, fall into two great Pits. Near the Village _Bartholomew_, in the Province _Quelenes_, is a strange Cavern, out of which by the throwing of a stone into the same, are heard mighty noises like claps of Thunder. Not far from the Village _Chicomucolo_, appears a Cavern, in which is a great Plain on one side, and a standing Lake, whose Water is like Sand, on the other. The _Spaniards_, if they wanted not Slaves, might dig good store of Gold, Silver, Copper, Lead, Tin, and Quicksilver, out of the Mynes on the Mountain _Ecatepeck_, which is in nine Leagues compass: The Wind blows so strong after Sun-rising, that no Man is able to travel for it, but in the Night. SECT. II. Vera Paz. [Sidenote: Situation and Bounds.] _Vera Paz_, or _The Countrey of True Peace_, was so nam’d by the _Spaniards_, as they say, because it was never conquer’d by the Sword, but reduc’d to Obedience onely by the Preaching of the _Dominican_ Fryers. It is bounded on the West and South-West with _Chiapa_; on the East with some part of _Guatimala_ and _Honduras_; and on the North with _Jucatan_. It contains about thirty Leagues in length, and almost as much in breadth, being a woody and mountainous Countrey for the most part, yet well distinguish’d with Valleys and lower Ground. It is much subject to Rain, which ’tis said to have for nine Moneths of the Year almost continually; by reason whereof the Countrey, being otherwise hot, is much annoy’d with a kind of _Mosquit_, or great sort of Gnats, which spoil the Fruit very much, and are otherwise not a little trouble to the People. Moreover, there happen oftentimes terrible Earthquakes and Storms, with Thunder and Lightning. [Sidenote: Commodities of the Countrey.] The chief Commodities of this Countrey, are a kind of Amber, which some call _Liquid Amber_, which drops from divers of their Trees, and is said to be a Commodity very precious, and of much use; _Mastick_, _Sanguis Draconis_, _Gum Anime_, _Sarsaparilla_, _China-Wood_, and divers other Medicinal Drugs, which it affordeth in great plenty. The Woods afford a sweet smell, and the Trees in the same grow a wonderful heighth. The Canes which grow here, being a hundred Foot long, and proportionably thick, serve for Timber. There is also a hard Wood call’d _Iron-Wood_, either from its hardness or colour, or both, which never rots. The abundance of Flowers which grow here afford nutriment to innumerable swarms of Bees, which are about the bigness of small Flies. Their Honey, which is somewhat tart, they hide in the Roots of Trees, or in the Earth. Another sort, which is made by the Wasps, bereaves those that taste of their Senses. [Sidenote: Beasts.] The noted’st Beast in this Countrey is the _Danta_, which resembles a Mule, hath no Horns, but Ash-colour’d long Hair, short Neck, hanging Ears, thin Legs, with three Claws before and two behind, long Head, narrow Forehead, little Eyes, a Nose hanging over its Mouth, little Tail, sharp Teeth, and a Skin which is six Fingers thick, and scarce penetrable by any Weapon. This Beast is taken in Traps, Holes, or else with Dogs, which he often kills when hunted towards the Water. They say that this Beast taught Men first to Let-blood; for if it be too full of Blood, it pricks it self against a sharp Cane, and stops up the Orifice again very carefully. The Flesh thereof is good Meat, as also that of the _Ross_-Lyons, which in the day-time sleep on a high Tree, where they are shot by the _Indians_. The Tygers are much more dangerous to be taken; yet the _Indians_ Hunting them, eat them in stead of Beef; and also through all _New Spain_. The Bears, which make the Ways very dangerous to travel, have black frizled Hair, broad Tails, Feet like Mens Hands: but since the _Indians_ have made use of Guns, which they learn’d from the _Spaniards_, they have much lessen’d the number both of Bears and Tygers. There are likewise many Leopards, Apes, and wild Goats (whose Skins serve the Natives for Drums) Hogs, and _Armadillo_’s. Amongst their Fowls, are Eagles and Parrots. The Countrey is so well stor’d with Water, that in three Leagues space are above thirty Rivulets, and as many Fountains. [Sidenote: Medicinal Plants.] On the Mountains grow great quantities of _Sarsaparilla_, _Mechoacan_, and the _China-Root_, which being yellowish hath several Saffron-colour’d Knobs on the top. The _Sarsaparilla_ grows with many Stalks, creeping along over the Ground; the Body thereof is tough and full of Prickles, the Leaves broad and sharp at the ends, and are of a bluish colour on one side, and green on the other, and bear Clusters of Flowers, which close like Buds, and are first green, next vermilion-red, and lastly blackish: within are two hard Stones, which inclose a white Kernel, by the _Indians_ call’d _Juapecanga_. The Bay _Golfo Dulce_, which pours its muddy Water into the Sea, feeds the great Fish _Monati_, and a great number of Crocodiles. Several Rivers abounding with Fish fall also into the same, having their Banks set all along with Trees, in whose Boughs, joyn’d together on the top, those sort of Birds make their Nests which prey on Fish. The Women in this place are much shorter Liv’d than the Men, so that there are often thirty Widowers to one Widow. Women with Child are Deliver’d by themselves in the High-way; and from thence they go to the next River to wash themselves and the Child. [Sidenote: Places of note.] As for any Towns or Places of much Traffick or Note, inhabited by the _Spaniards_, we find not any nam’d, save onely _St. Augustines_; near unto which there is said to be a Cave and Fountain within Ground, which converts the Water that falleth into it out of several lesser Springs, into a kind of Alabaster or Stone, perfectly white, and fashions it likewise into Pillars, Statues, and other artificial Forms of very curious Workmanship, as _Laet_ reporteth. SECT. III. Honduras. [Sidenote: Situation and Bounds.] _Honduras_ hath on the South, _Guatimala_ abovesaid; on the West, a certain Bay, or Arm of the Sea, which they call _Golfo Dulce_, from the abundance of fresh Waters which run into it from all Parts; on the North and North-East, the _Atlantick Ocean_; and somewhat to the South-East, _Nicaragua_. It contains in length, _viz._ from East to West, Coasting along upon the Sea, about a hundred and fifty Leagues, and in breadth eighty. The Countrey is rich both in Corn and Pasturage, being said to be very much advantag’d that way by the constant overflowings of the Rivers, which are very many, about _Michaelmass_-time, and which the People order so well, that they water their Gardens, and exceedingly fertilize the whole Champain, or lower part of the Grounds by them. The fruitful Valleys of this Countrey were anciently very well inhabited, till vast multitudes of the Natives were destroy’d by the _Spaniards_ Cruelties, of which the Bishop _Bartholomeo de las Casas_, in his Letter to the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth, gives this Relation: [Sidenote: Cruelties of the _Spaniards_.] “The young Children (saith he) they murder’d, beating out their Brains against the Stones; the Kings and Princes of the Countrey they either scorch’d to death, or threw them to the Dogs to be torn in pieces; the poor People they drove into their Houses, and then set them on fire; those that remain’d were condemn’d to the greatest slavery imaginable, being us’d in stead of Mules and Horses, and having greater Burdens laid upon them than they were able to carry, insomuch that thousands of them fell down dead under them; some out of despair running into the Woods were famish’d, after they had kill’d and eat their Wives and Children for Hunger. In this one Province onely they massacred above twenty hundred thousand Men, and amongst others, Persons of Quality, which had civilly Entertain’d them: nay, they tortur’d the poor innocent Natives all the ways they could possibly invent, onely to know of them where their Gold lay; particularly _Diego de Valasco_ spar’d none that ever fell into his hands; insomuch that in a Moneths time above ten thousand were slain by him: He hang’d thirteen Noble-men, to twelve of whom he gave the Denomination of _The twelve Apostles_; and the chiefest of them he call’d in a derision, _Jesus Christ_. Some they suffer’d to starve to death, with their Heads compress’d between the cloven Barks of wild Vines; some also they buried alive, and leaving onely their Heads to appear above Ground, bowl’d Iron Bullets at them, and forc’d them to eat one another; besides infinite other hellish Cruelties, too horrid and dreadful to be recounted.” [Sidenote: Commodities of the Countrey.] This Countrey produces much _Maiz_, Wheat, Honey, and great _Calabashes_, from whence the first Discoverers call’d that Sea _Golfo de las Ybueras_, because they met with abundance of _Calabashes_, floating on the Water, which at _Santo Domingo_ bear the Name of _Ybueras_. This Countrey is water’d by three Rivers, the first _Chamalucom_, which glides by the City _San Pedro_; the second _Ulva_, inhabited on both Shores; the third _Haguaro_, the Grounds adjacent to which would prove very fruitful, were the Inhabitants not too lazy. In stead of a Plough they use a long Pole, with two crooked Staves at the end, one bent downwards and the other upwards, with which they cut and turn the Earth. The Natives feed on several Roots, Flesh, and Vermine. At their Feast they make themselves Drunk with a Drink made of Honey, Noble-men heretofore onely drinking the Liquor of _Cacao_; of late it is common, and made by all People, though never so mean. They speak several Languages, the chiefest whereof is that of the _Chontales_, a salvage People. They divide their Year, call’d _Joalar_, that is, _Passing_, into eighteen Moneths, and each Moneth into twenty Days. They formerly measur’d the Year by the Nights, and began the Year forty days sooner than the _Europeans_. [Sidenote: _New Valladolid._] The Towns in this Province are 1. _New Vallodolid_, by the _Indians_ nam’d _Comayagua_, lying in a pleasant Valley under a temperate Climate. The Cattel brought hither from _Spain_ increase exceedingly. The Silver-Mynes are also so well stor’d, that they keep the Melting-house in the Town always employ’d. The Governor of this Place hath his Residence next to the Treasury-Chamber. _Anno 1588._ the Bishop’s See was translated hither from _Truxillo_: Nineteen years before which _Francisco de Monteio_ sent his Lieutenant _Alphonso de Cacenes_ thither, to build a Village half way between the Southern and Northern Ocean; who accordingly erected the Town _Santa Maria de Camoyagua_, near a River Navigable for _Canoos_, which disembogues in _Puerto de Cavallos_. The remaining part of the Way to the Haven _Fonseca_ being passable for Carrs (which was a means to prevent many Inconveniences which us’d to happen to Travellers on the Way between _Panama_ and _Nombre de Dios_) the _Spanish_ King was so much concern’d at the first proposal hereof, that he sent the famous Surveyor _Baptista Antonello_ thither, and he rather, because he received information, that the new Way, along which they carried the Merchandise from _Peru_, _Mexico_, and other Countreys along the South Sea, lay very pleasantly, by reason of the brave Vineyards, Corn-Fields, Fruit-Trees, Pastures, Streams abounding with Fish, Herds of Deer, and Cony-Warrens; yet _Antonello_ meeting with many troubles, would not undertake the Business. _New Valladolid_ is adorn’d with a great Church, a Cloyster, belonging to the Monks _De la Merced_, and handsom Streets. [Sidenote: _Gratias a Dios._] 2. Thirty Leagues Westward from this City lies another call’d _Gratias a Dios_, begun by Captain _Gabriel de Royas_, _Anno 1530._ that so he might be near the Gold-Mines: But because the Natives kept the new Inhabitants in continual alarm, and daily Storm’d the unfinished Fortifications, _Royas_ was necessitated to leave off building any farther, the rather, because none came to his assistance from the neighboring Garrison. Six years after _Gonzales de Alvarado_ undertook this Work, and built the City on a Rocky Mountain; which, though otherwise barren, produc’d lusty Horses and strong Mules. [Sidenote: _St. Pedro._] 3. _San Pedro_, though lying under a hot and unwholsom Climate, us’d formerly to be a brave City of Trade; but it is gone much to decay since _Golfo Dolce_ hath been discover’d, because from that Bay the Commodities are carried in Barques up into the Countrey. [Sidenote: _Juan de Puerto de Cavallos._] 4. The Village _Juan de Puerto de Cavallos_, inhabited by Factors and Moors: It receiv’d that Denomination, because not far from it several Horses were forc’d to be thrown over-board in a Storm. Though it be but ill fortifi’d, yet it hath an exceeding large Haven. Captain _Christopher Newport_ arriving here _Anno 1591._ found two hundred Houses, and in them a considerable Booty left, notwithstanding four Ships richly laden had lately set Sail from thence. Six years after _Newport_, Capt. _Ant. Sherly_ re-took the Place, and leaving the Haven open for Pyrats, _Alphonsus Coriado_ judg’d it convenient to remove the Trading Place to _Amatique_; he built the Village _Thomas de Castilla_, and fortifi’d the same against all manner of Assaults. [Illustration: TRUXILLO.] Behind _Cavallos_ lies the Valley _Naco_, which is exceeding fruitful, being situate between high Mountains, where formerly was found plenty of Silver. [Sidenote: _Truxillo._] 5. Eastward from _Cavallos_ appears the famous City _Truxillo_, near a large Bay; secur’d from all Storms by two Cliffs, full of Trees; the Mouth of the Haven call’d _Joan Gil_, is above two Leagues broad, and receives two Rivers, one from each side of the City: The Stream _Quaimarotte_ flows Eastward, and the River _Antonio_ Westward, both abounding in Fish. The Countrey round about produces abundance of all sorts of Provisions, and chiefly abounds in Grapes, which are gather’d twice a year: Eight days after _August_ they cut their Vines, which afford them ripe Grapes again in _October_; they have two Harvests of Corn; also Lemons and Oranges are very plentiful: The Cattel brought hither from _Spain_ are exceedingly increas’d to an incredible number. _Truxillo_ it self lying on a steep Mountain, is defended on that side which respects the Sea, with a thick Wall of six Foot high; between which and the Haven are many brambly Bushes, which prevent the access to the Wall, onely a narrow and steep way leading up to the City, which hath a strong Gate, guarded with two Brass Guns, and sufficiently Fortifi’d to oppose an Enemy. The Eastern Cliff, which bends before the Haven is call’d _Punta la Rye_, on which stands a House with a high Beacon: Beyond the Wall Eastward, near the Haven, is a Ship-yard, before which stands a large Woodden Cross: The Castle in which the City Store is kept, joyns to the Wall, near unto which, within the Town appears St. _Francis_ Church; but the Cathedral call’d _Eglesia Major_, is seen above all other Buildings: The Houses cover’d with _Palmito_-Leaves, have Walls of Pleited Bushes, Plaister’d over within and without: Behind the City, where it lies open, are exceeding high Mountains. [Sidenote: Attempts upon this place by the _English_ and _Dutch_.] _Anno 1576._ the _English_ falling on this strong Place, carry’d a rich Booty from thence; after which, Capt. _Anth. Sherly_ and Capt. _Will. Parker_ ventur’d once more on the same, but being discover’d by the Centinel, were forc’d to Retreat, not without a considerable loss: When not long after, Captain _John Van Hoorn_ a _Hollander_, attempting the same, had much better success; for he Weighing Anchor for _Pernambuc_, with four Frigats, three Ketches, and a Sloop, set Sail to _Truxillo_, where arriving, lay close before the City with his four Frigats, which fired very fiercely on the Town; the Inhabitants of which not being idle, kill’d three Men in one Ship, forc’d her to fall farther off from the Castle: Whilst the Ketches and Sloop went about a Gun shot Westward beyond the City, towards the River _Antonio_, where they Landed two hundred and fifty Soldiers, which march’d with all speed up the Hill, where the Castle lay which they Scal’d at Noon-day; the Besieged being provided with seven Guns, shot, and threw Stones continually amongst them, yet were forc’d to Retreat from the _Dutch_ Hand-granado’s: During the storm, the Admiral himself Landed, but before he came out of the Boat, the foremention’d Soldiers had made themselves Masters of the Fort, with the loss of onely eight Men, and were busie Pillaging all places they came at, and carrying their gotten Booty to a Watch-house near the Castle on the Shore; when on a sudden a Fire happen’d in the East part of _Truxillo_, which increas’d in such a manner, that in few hours two third parts of the City lay in Ashes; every one then had enough to do to save themselves, yet for all the haste they made, several _Hollanders_ were kill’d at the blowing up of the Magazine, and most of the Booty lost by the Fire; insomuch that they carry’d but two hundred thirty nine Skins, six Bales of _Indigo_, eight hundred and twenty Pounds of _Sarsaparilla_, seven Brass, and three Iron Guns, four Clocks, and some few trifles with them; having before made an agreement for twenty Pound of Silver, with the Governor _Joan de Miranda_, who inform’d them, that they had not the least knowledge of the _Hollanders_ Fleet, till the Evening, when the Beacon on _Punta La Rye_ was fir’d: Moreover, that the City was inhabited by two hundred _Spaniards_, and as many more _Mulatoes_ and _Moors_; and that the Trade thereof was much gone to decay, because there had been no Gallies there in two years before. Twenty seven Leagues from this City lies the Village _Jorgo de Olancho_, where four thousand _Spaniards_ force Tribute from sixteen thousand _Indians_, who possess much Gold. SECT. IV. Nicaragua. [Sidenote: Situation and bounds.] _Nicaragua_ is a County of this Province, border’d Northward with _Honduras_; on the East, with the _Atlantick Ocean_, and part of _Veragua_; on the South, with _Mare del Zur_; and on the West, with _Guatimala_, being call’d by _Diego Lopez de Salzado_, _The New Kingdom of_ Leon, and comprizing several little Territories, as _Nicoya_, _Nequecheri_, _Mabyth_, _Deria_, _Masaya_, _Mandigua_, _Cacoloaque_, _Cepeoco_, _Los Micos_, _Madira_, and the _Contales_. It hath few Rivers in it, the want whereof is supply’d by the benefit of a great Lake, in the midst of the Countrey, call’d by the _Spaniards_, _Laguna de Nicaragua_, containing, as is suppos’d, above one hundred Leagues in compass. It empties it self by the Port of _St. Juan_ into the _Atlantick_ or North-Sea, but reacheth as far as the South or _Mare del Zur_, at least within a very few Leagues; and from whence some _Spanish_ Captains are said to have made a passage, though with much difficulty, into the Lake, and from thence to the North-Sea. It is abundantly well stor’d with good Fish, but withal much haunted with Crocodiles; and the Countrey about it so plentiful in all things, especially Cattel, Cotten-Wool, Sugars, and all kind of Fruits: Amongst which, the chiefest is the _Zeiba_, which is of so great a thickness, that fifteen Men holding Hand in Hand, can scarce encompass the same. The _Callabashes_ ripen here in fourteen days time: The Sea along the Coast, breeds Whales and other Sea-Monsters, which are often seen above Water. [Sidenote: Nature of the Inhabitants.] The Inhabitants of this Countrey, (except the _Chontales_, which live on the Mountains, and maintain their old Salvage Customs) have for the most part learnt the _Spanish_ Tongue and Manners, and exercise themselves in all sorts of Arts and Siences, especially in Working of Silver, making of Clothes, Wax-Work, and the like: From the Mountains they gather Balsom, Liquid-Amber, Turpentine: They also drive a great Trade in Cotton, Skins, and several sorts of Provisions, to _Panama_, and _Nombre de Dios_. The Lake _Laguna de Nicaragua_, which hath a hundred and seventeen Leagues in Circumference, and round about inhabited, is by three Leagues of Land separated from the South-Sea; and discharges its Waters into the River _Desaguadero_, which falls into the Northern Ocean. _Alphonsus Calera_, and _Diego Machuca de Zuaso_, were the first that Sail’d out of the foremention’d Lake into the Sea, not without many dangers, by reason of the great Water-falls, call’d _Rondales_, which fall into the River _Desaguadero_, and forc’d them often times to draw their Barques over the Land. [Sidenote: Cities.] The chief City is, 1. _Leon_, which is surrounded with Woods, and lies close by the Lake; hath a great Church, five Cloysters belonging to the _Monks, de la Mercede_, several Houses for the King’s Officers, and a hundred and twenty thousand Families of _Indians_ which pay Tribute. Three Leagues beyond _Leon_ appears a high spiry Mountain, from whose top, both Morning and Evening, rises a mighty smoke, and sometimes casts out great sulphurous Stones over the neighboring Fields, and on a sudden mighty Flames. A _Dominican_ Monk, in hopes to get some melted Gold out of its burning Mouth, went up the same with four of his Fraternity, and carry’d an Iron Chain and a Kettle, which were no sooner let down into the hole, but they were immediately melted; yet not so discourag’d, they resolv’d to venture a second time with stronger Materials, which nevertheless had the same, or rather worse event; for the Fire flew out in such a manner, that the _Dominicans_ sadly scorch’d, had enough to do to escape with Life, since which none durst presume to approach the same. But besides the Episcopal City _Leon_, Erected by _Franciscus Fernandez_, 2. _Granada_ acknowledges the same Builder, and lying also on the shore of _Laguna de Nicaragua_, is adorn’d with a Castle, Church, and several Sugar-Mills: Not far from it lie the small Lakes _Masaya_ and _Lindiri_; the first which is inclos’d between exceeding high Mountains, covers the Foot of the burning Mountain _Masaya_; the other falls into _Laguna de Nicaragua_, near which is the smoky Mountain _Munbacho_, surrounded with Fruit-Trees. 3. _&_ 4. The Towns _Jean_, and _Neuva Segovia_, which are not far from thence, are of little consequence. 5. _Realeio_, this is, as it were, the _Chattam_ of _America_, being a place on the South-Sea, where the King of _Spain_ hath all his Ships built that are made of _American_ Timber, and inhabited by few or none but Shipwrights, Mariners, and Men of that kind of Profession. 6. _&_ 7. _Nicoya_, _Avarines_. 8. _Cartago_, forty Leagues distant from _Nicoya_, and lying almost in the midst of the _Isthmus_, or _Streight_ of _Darien_, equally distant both from the North and South Sea; on both which it is said likewise to have a convenient Port or Haven for Shipping. [Sidenote: Strange manner of Dancing.] The _Spaniards_, when first they Landed here, call’d this Countrey _Mahomets Paradise_, because of its exceeding Fruitfulness. The _Cacao_ which they use here in stead of Money, is not unlike the Stone of an Almond. The Inhabitants, in stead of using a Steel and Flint to strike Fire withal, rub two pieces of Wood together so long, till one of them is kindled; and burn the Boughs of Pine-Trees in stead of Candles. Amongst the several Languages which they speak, the _Mexican_ is the chiefest: Amongst their Recreations, Dancing is principal, which is perform’d after a very strange manner, for they meet sometimes two or three thousand together, according to the bigness of the Province, in a spacious Field, which is made clean before for that purpose: He that leads the Dance goes backward, and with many strange Gestures, turns himself about, which the rest, following four and four together in a row, imitate, whilst their _Tambores_ beat on hollow Instruments, and sing Songs, which are first answer’d by the Ring-leader of the Dance, and then seconded by the whole Company, each of them waving a Fan or a _Callabash_, and being all adorn’d with Plumes of Feathers on their Heads, and Strings with Shells about their Arms and Legs; they also act several antick Tricks, the one, the blind Man, the other, the Cripple, one feigns himself to be deaf, the other makes a wry Mouth, one cries, and another laughs, whilest others drink healths in _Chocolate_, which continues till Midnight. [Sidenote: The Fish _Manati_.] A King of this Countrey in former times us’d to feed the Fish _Manati_ with Bread, in the Lake _Guainabo_, where it would appear at its being call’d _Matto_, _Matto_, which signifies _Noble-minded_, and oftentimes carry eight or ten Boys on its Back from one side of the Lake to the other; but being shot by a _Spaniard_ with an Arrow, never appear’d again. There is likewise a black Beast in this Countrey call’d _Cascu_, resembling in some things a Hog; it hath a hard Skin, little Eyes, open Ears, cloven Feet, short Nose, and makes such a terrible noise, that it affrights those which hear it. No less strange and wonderful is the Fox-Ape, which hath two Bellies one under another; in the lowermost of which it carries its Young, which are never brought into the World till they are able to shift for their own Food. It hath the Body of a Fox, Feet like a Man’s Hands, and Ears like a Batt. It will not be amiss before we conclude with this Province, to give you a Relation of the Discourse which hapned _Anno 1527._ between the _Spanish_ Commander _Francisco de Monteio_ and the _Nicaraguan_ Casique _Alquinotex_, who being a hundred and ten years old, told him, “That before the _Spaniards_ arrival there, great numbers of his Soldiers perish’d after a strange manner; for after having vomited abundance of Worms, they fell down dead on a sudden: those that escap’d the Contagion differing amongst themselves, made two Parties, which twice Engaging with one another, each of them lost above a hundred and fifty thousand Men. Yet both these Plagues were no ways to be compar’d to the Slaughter which the _Spaniards_ had made amongst them.” About the same time an _Italian_, call’d _Hieronymo Bonzo_, Lodging with a _Nicaraguan_ Noble-man that understood the _Spanish_ Tongue, was thus set upon by him: _What do not_ (_Oh_ Christ) _the_ Christians _do! they no sooner get their Foot into an_ Indian_’s Hut, but they commandingly call for Maiz, Honey, Winter-Clothes, Gold, Silver, and a Woman to cool their lustful desires: Certainly there is nothing more vicious on Earth_. To which _Bonzo_ gave him this Answer: _The wicked_ Spaniards _commit oftentimes unseemly things_. The _Indian_ again suddenly retorted, saying, _Where are any such Men to be found as good_ Spaniards? _I have never known any but wicked Villains._ To which _Bonzo_ said, _Why have you made place for them on_ Nicaragua? Which was thus reply’d to by the Noble-man: “All People round about took Oath on the first News of the _Christians_ arrival, to hazard all, and fight to the last Man, before they would be under the insupportable Yoke, with which they had heard other Countreys were oppress’d with by them. To which purpose they made ready Bowes, Arrows, Lances, Stones, Clubs, and other Weapons of War: But when it came to the trial, the _Spanish_ Horse, of which they had never seen the like, struck such a terror into the _Indians_, that they fled, and sent two Agents to _Monteio_ to desire Peace; but their Design was onely to gain time, that they might gather new Forces, to venture a second Encounter; which prov’d as fatal to them as the first. Then desiring Peace once more, they gather’d all that were able to bear Arms, and swore one to another not to stir a Foot; and withal made a Law, That whosoever did shrink should be kill’d immediately: But the Women being inform’d hereof, begg’d that they might rather suffer under the _Spanish_ Yoke, than be torn in pieces by their Dogs, or kill’d by their Bullets and Swords, alledging, that they were not able to resist the _Spaniards_; and entreated them, that if they were resolv’d to go on with their first Design, they would first send their Wives and Children to the other World, that so they might not fall into the hands of the merciless and bloody _Christians_: Whereupon most Voices judg’d it convenient to make use of the Opportunity, and to submit to _Monteio_. But his cruel dealings made some to contradict that Determination, for which they paid dearly; for not onely they, but their little Infants, were put to the most cruel Deaths imaginable; which made many of them also to lay violent hands on themselves.” SECT. V. Costarica. [Sidenote: Bounds and Nature of the Countrey.] _Costarica_ borders on the East with _Veragua_; on the South and East, with the Sea; and on the North, with _Nicaragua_. The Countrey it self is barren and mountainous; whose Inhabitants were valiant enough to Encounter with the _Spanish_ Forces, being unwilling to lose their former Priviledges. This Coast was discover’d full by _Christopher Columbus_, who _Anno 1502._ Sailing up the Rivers _Belen_ and _Veragua_ with Barques, took much Gold out of the Mynes _Urira_, but chiefly from between the Roots of Trees which were grown together. SECT. VI. Veragua. [Sidenote: Bounds and Nature of the Country.] _Veragua_ is bounded on the West with _Costarica_; on the East it hath the District, or Countrey of _Panama_, being otherwise wash’d on all sides by the Sea. It hath its Name from a River of great note in this Tract, by which it was first discover’d. The Countrey is for the most part mountainous, and the Soil outwardly barren, but recompencing all defects with the abundance of its more inward Wealth, that is to say, in the richness of its Mynes, of which it is said to afford many, and so inexhaustibly rich and good, that the _Spaniards_ here know no end of their Wealth; although by the stoutness and untameableness of the Natives, it was a long time, and they met with many difficulties, before they could make themselves Masters of the Treasure. [Sidenote: Its chief Towns.] The chief Towns they have here are 1. _La Conception_, lying at the Mouth of a River so nam’d, and the Seat of the Governor. 2. _La Trinidad_, upon the Banks of the same River likewise, but down towards _Port Beleno_, and about six Leagues Eastward of _Conception_. 3. _St. Foy_, twelve Leagues more to the South, where the _Spaniards_ melt their Gold, and cast it into Bars or Ingots. 4. _Carlos_, a Town they have upon the Coast of _Mare del Zur_. 5. _Philippina_, another on the West of _Carlos_; both of these seated upon a large capacious Bay; before which there lie certain little Islands, to the number of thirty or more, which the _Spaniards_ are said to have wholly dispeopled long since, by forcing the Natives over into the Continent to work in the Mynes, as usually they did before the Emperor’s Prohibition: but now they use Slaves or _Negro_’s, which they buy for that purpose from _Guinee_ and other Parts. SECT. VII. Guatimala, properly so call’d. [Sidenote: Bounds of the Country.] _Guatimala_, specially so call’d, hath on the West the River _Xicalapa_, which divides it from _Vera Paz_; on the East it is bounded with the Countrey of _Nicaragua_; on the North, with _Honduras_; and on the South, with _Mare del Zur_. This Countrey was conquer’d by _Peter de Alvarado_, _Anno 1525._ It is, by reason of its neighborhood with _Vera Paz_, not altogether clear of Mountains, but otherwise well water’d with Rivers, and enrich’d with fair and fruitful Valleys, which afford not onely good Pasturage, and many great Herds of Cattel, but likewise good store of Wheat, _Maiz_, and other Fruits of the Earth. Great plenty of Cotton-Wool is generally both here and in the other Provinces, _viz._ _Vera Paz_, _Chiapa_, &c. some Medicinal Woods likewise, and Liquors, and absolutely the best Sulphur in _America_. The People are generally tractable and well dispos’d, both in point of Religion and civil Government. [Sidenote: Towns of note.] The Towns of chief note are 1. _Guatimala_, now call’d _St. Jago de Guatimala_ since the re-building thereof; for about the Year 1586. it was almost buried in Ashes, which one of the neighboring Mountains, for the space of six Moneths together, continually belch’d out in such fearful quantities, that many People were slain, the old City deserted, and a new one built in another place. The day before this sad Accident hapned, the neighboring Mountains were observ’d to shiver, and a great noise was heard from under Ground; which amazing the _Indians_, the news thereof was carried to the Bishop, _Franciscus Moroquin_, who narrowly enquiring into the Causes of these Accidents, and what they might portend, found that a sad Event would suddenly follow, as accordingly it did; for about midnight on the eighth of _August, Anno 1541._ such a mighty store of Rain fell, as if the Clouds had been all dissolv’d into Water, which came rowling from the Rocky Mountains with such violence, that it wash’d down great Stones, which carried on by the strength of the Water against the Houses, beat them down; and none could have seen how they were ruin’d, had not the mighty flashes of Lightning, follow’d by terrible claps of Thunder, lighted the Night. Some instantly deserting this miserable place, fled up into the Countrey, and there built a new _Guatimala_ (as above-mention’d) sur-nam’d _St. Jago_, three Leagues farther towards the East, in a Valley through which flow two Rivers, between two _Vulcans_, or smoaking Mountains, which sometimes vomit forth terrible Flames, mix’d with dreadful Thunder-claps, Ashes, and great Stones, insomuch that the Ground all about it, which is exceeding fruitful, seems to move. There are many of these _Vulcans_ in several parts of _America_, as namely at _Arequipa_ in the Kingdom of _Peru_, at _Puebla de los Angelos_, in the Province of _Tlascalla_ abovesaid, a Mountain of so great heighth, that they are fain to go little less than thirty Leagues turning and winding before they can reach the top of it, and others in several other places. They are generally Mountains of great heighth, and running sharp upwards, but at the top containing some quantity of plain and level Ground; in the midst whereof is a Pit or Hole, out of which abundance of Smoak and fiery Sparkles are vomited almost continually, and so deep, that they are suppos’d for the most part to reach to the very bottom of the Mountain. Some of these _Vulcans_ cast forth neither Fire nor Smoak, yet are clearly seen to burn at the bottom with a quick Fire, and which is so extreamly hot, that it instantly melteth Iron, or any other Metal that is cast into it, as by experience hath been found: for some conceiving that the Matter which maintains these Fires within the Bowels of the Earth so long together, can be nothing else but melted Gold, have endeavor’d several times to extract and draw it forth in certain Vessels of Iron and Brass, which they have caus’d to be let down into the bottom of the _Vulcan_ or Pit, by long Iron Chains made on purpose: but, as we said, the extream heat and force of the Fire below always melted them before they could be drawn up again, and by that means hath rendred all such Attempts frustrate. In this Town, now call’d _St. Jago_, reside above six hundred _Spanish_ Commanders, and more than twenty five thousand _Indians_ which pay Tribute. They have also a brave Church and two Cloysters, one belonging to the _Dominicans_, and another to the Order _La Merced_, and likewise a noble Hospital. Not far from thence is a place call’d _Yzaleos_, where there are Orchards of _Cacoa_ two Leagues in square, each of them producing yearly as much as fifty thousand Men are able to carry. They reckon the _Cacao_ by _Contels_, which is the number of four hundred; by _Xequipiles_, of eight thousand; and by _Carga_’s, of twenty four thousand. In this County is a Mountain, whose top smoaking continually consumes by degrees, and oftentimes covers the neighboring Countrey with Ashes. The Water which flows from the same differs very much, for some of it is wholsom and fit to drink; some foul and stinking, and some turns Wood, if laid in the same, to Stone. Here is also the Beast whose Head is highly esteem’d for the _Bezoar_-Stone, which it carries in the same. Here is likewise a little Bear, which in stead of a Mouth, hath a long Nose with a round Hole in it, and a hollow Tongue, with which it sucks Honey, and disturbs the Nests of Pismires. The Women in this Place make curious Earthen Ware, colour’d either red or black with the Mud of two several Brooks. The _Indians_ call’d the boyling Fountains in this County _Hell_, because they bubble up a Bowes-shot high, and make the River _Caliente_, which, notwithstanding it hath pass’d half a League through a wide Channel, retains its exceeding heat. Not far from it lies a Stone, which having a Crack in the middle, sends forth a thick Damp, and against bad Weather a thundering noise. On the Mountains grow exceeding large Trees, especially Oak. Here Pismires which are of an extraordinary bigness, are brought to Market amongst other Provisions. 2. _St. Salvador_, forty Leagues distant from _Guatimala_ Eastward, and seated upon the River _Guacapa_, and having about it a small Territory, which by some is accounted a distinct Countrey or Province. 3. _Acaputla_, a Town of the Natives, situated at the Mouth of the River, and being as it were, the Port-Town to _St. Salvador_. 4. _Trinidad_, a Town of great resort, being the greatest Empory and Place of Traffick for all sorts of Commodities, betwixt the People of _New Spain_ and those of _Peru_. 5. _St. Michaels_, two or three Leagues distant from the Bay _Fonseca_, upon the South Sea. 6. _Xeres de la Frontera_, on the Confines of this Province, towards the Borders of _Nicaragua_, besides several Villages which we shall have occasion to mention. In the middle of a Lake within this Territory is an Island, on which the _Indians_ had a Tradition, That a Man no sooner set his Foot but he died immediately: Which Opinion of theirs was chang’d when the _Spaniards_ went thither in Boat-fulls and return’d safe again, with Relation that they had seen a large Stone Image, resembling a Woman; before which lay the Ashes and Bones of slain People. Round about the Village _Guaymoco_ grow great Balsom-Trees, which afford Timber of fifty five Foot long. From this Village leads a Way to the City _Salvador_, near which the fore-mention’d River _Guachapa_ runs with so many windings, that the Traveller is forc’d to cross the same several times before he can come to the Foot of a Mountain which formerly cast out terrible Flames; but now the combustible Matter being consum’d, there appears onely a great Hole on the top, with Ashes in a large compass round about it. At the Foot of the same are two Pits, one of which smoaks continually in such a manner, that it stifles all those that approach it; yet the Mountain is well overspread with Cedars and Pine-Trees. Three Leagues farther lies the Village _Nixapa_; and not far from thence the Hill _Elmal Pais_, which consists of great Stones and Ashes, wonderfully mixt together: No less wonderful is a Brook which flows in the Night till Morning, and then sinks into the Ground: And in the Countrey _Choluteca_ is another, which hides it self at Noon, and appears again towards Night. The Cavern which formerly produc’d Fire and Smoke, now affords good Water to the Village _Curcatan_, and City _Salvador_: Near the Village _Yztepegve_ are five Springs, which cast up Allom and Sulphur. The Natives _Chontales_ which speak several Languages, flock to the Village _Mimilla_, to make Offerings; not far from hence are two Pits, one of which is full of boyling Water, and the other as cold as Ice: Moreover, _Cocori_ lies near a high Mountain, on the top of which is a very turbulent Lake. [Sidenote: Havens.] The chiefest Haven of this Countrey, which lies along the South-Sea, is _Bahia de Fonseca_, Discover’d by _Gonsalves Davila_, _Anno 1522._ and so nam’d from _Joan Rodrigas de Fonseca_, Bishop of _Burgos_; In the middle thereof appears the Island _Petronella_, with nine others, of which four are inhabited by _Indians_. The good conveniency of the Haven _Fonseca_, induc’d some of the _Spaniards_ to make a new Passage from the side of the Southern Ocean, to the Northern, _viz._ from _Panama_ to _Nombre de Dios_, designing it to reach from the said Haven _Fonseca_, unto _Puerto de Carellos_, which are distant one from the other forty five Leagues; most of it good way, except some over-grown Mountains, which might be made passable with little trouble; to which purpose they built the Town _Buena Esperanca_, yet nevertheless the Work remain’d unprosecuted. There are moreover reckon’d as appertaining to _Guatimala_, the small Provinces _Soconusco_, _Suchitepec_, and _Chilulteca_, the chief of them being _Soconusco_, to which belongs the Town of _Gevetlan_, where the _Spanish_ Governor hath his Residence; the rest seem to be onely small Territories about Towns of the same Name, in like manner as St. _Salvador_, and St. _Miguel_ before-mention’d. [Illustration] CHAP. V. The Kingdom of Mexico, or New-Spain. [Sidenote: Bounds of _New-Spain_.] _New Spain_, the chiefest part of the Northern _America_, reckons in length from the East-Point of _Yucatan_, to the place where _Mechoacon_ juts against _Guadalajara_ three hundred and sixty Leagues; and in breadth from the Northern parts of _Panucos_, to the Southern Ocean, a hundred and eighty Leagues; besides a great part which lies to the Northward, behind inaccessable Mountains and Wildernesses; inhabited by the _Tepecuaenes_, _Guachucules_, _Cacatequas_, _Tecaxquines_, and others; and was, before the _Spaniards_ Conquer’d and Dismember’d it, much larger than now it is; for as much as it comprehended the whole Province of _New-Gallicia_, and reach’d from the furthest Point of the _Peninsula_ of _Jucatan_ Southward as far as _New-Biscay_, and the Confines of _California_ Northward; containing in length seven hundred Leagues and more, and about half as much in breadth: But since the Conquest by _Hernando Cortez_ and his Followers, the whole Countrey of _New-Gallicia_ is taken from it, and made a distinct Government or _Audiencia_, as the _Spaniards_ call it, of it self. [Illustration: NOVA HISPANIA NOVA GALACIA GVATIMALA] [Sidenote: The Original.] The Natives of the Countrey are of the Race of the _Chichimecæ_, a Salvage and Wilde sort of People, of the Province of _New-Gallicia_, especially in the Parts of _New-Biscay_, living in Forests and in deep Caves under Ground; whose Posterity do still at this day much trouble and annoy the Countrey thereabouts; notwithstanding all the endeavors of the _Spaniards_, and the Garrisons which they keep in those parts on purpose to destroy them. About five hundred years ago, or more, according to the account of the _Mexican Annals_, divers Hoards, as they are call’d, of these _Chichimecæ_, weary, it seems, of their Woods and subterraneous dwellings, issu’d out into the more open Air, and fell down in huge multitudes into these Southerly parts of _America_, which are now call’d _Mexico_ and _New-Spain_; not all at once, but at several times, and under several names, _viz._ of the _Suchimilci_, _Chalcæ_, _Tepanecæ_, _Tlascaltecæ_, and others, who subduing or driving out the People they found in those parts, Seated themselves in their room: And though at first every Nation or Company of them, as they came, seiz’d upon some Province apart by themselves, and held it, as it were, in Soveraignty to themselves, without acknowledgement of any dependance or subjection to their Neighbors, or those that were there before them; yet in Tract of time, and by fortune of the Wars, which they made one upon another, they fell under the Government of one King, _viz._ the King of _Mexico_, which was the chief City of the Province. [Sidenote: The state of the _Mexican_ Kingdom before the _Spaniards_ arrival.] This Kingdom, at the time that the _Spaniards_ first Discover’d the Countrey, was Govern’d by a Prince, nam’d _Motezuma_; one, who by his Valor and good success in the Wars, had in a few years of his Reign, before the _Spaniards_ came thither, subdu’d the better part of a hundred Cities and great Towns to his Dominion; and held in actual submission to his Government, and Tributary to him, no less than thirty several _Casiques_ or petty Princes; every one of which paid him Tribute, and were able upon occasion to bring into the Field an hundred thousand Men: He is said to have been, for his Person, a wise and good Prince, just, affable, and tender of his Subjects good: but by reason of some heavy exactions, which his own power, and the Practise of his Ancestors before him, gave him the confidence to Impose upon the Conquer’d People, a great part of his Subjects liv’d but unwillingly under his Obedience, and rather by constraint than otherwise: being also further exasperated against him by one barbarous Custom, which the _Mexicans_ frequently us’d, _viz._ the Sacrificing of Men. Their manner was, whensoever they had any solemn occasion of doing Honor to their Devil-god _Vitzilopuchtli_, as they call him, to send out an Army of Men from _Mexico_, into some of the subdu’d Provinces, (in case they had no Enemies nearer Hand) and to fetch in as many Men as they thought good, to be Sacrific’d; whose flesh likewise afterwards they did eat in a solemn Banquet. This being a business of their Satanical Religion, and _Motezuma_ a Prince extremely Superstitious and Devoted to the Service of his gods, it is said, that he Sacrific’d commonly, one year with another, twenty thousand Men, and some years, upon extraordinary occasions, not less than fifty thousand: So great and grievous a Tyranny, by the just Judgement and Permission of Almighty God, for their great and unnatural sins, did the Enemy of Mankind exercise upon them. He was likewise much given to Women, but it was onely to such as were counted his Wives; of which he is said to have had no less than a hundred and fifty with Child by him at one time. [Sidenote: The bounds of the _Mexican_ Kingdom.] [Sidenote: Riches of _Mexico_.] The Bounds of this Kingdom at present are thus; on the East it hath a large Arm of the Sea, which they call _The Bay of New-Spain_, or _The Gulf of Mexico_; On the West, it hath some parts of _New-Gallicia_, and _Mare del Zur_; on the North, the rest of _New-Gallicia_, and part of _Florida_; and on the South, _Mare del Zur_ again, and part of _Guatimala_. It extendeth it self in length from _Jucatan_ South-East, to the Borders of _New Gallicia_ Northward, above eight hundred _Italian_ Miles, and in breadth, from _Panuco_ to the South Sea, about half so much. It lieth wholly under the _Torrid Zone_: nor is it a Countrey generally so mountainous or high seated, as some others of _America_ are but for the most part level or low; yet is it so fann’d, (for three parts at least of four, by the cooling Blasts of the Sea, and the Heats otherwise so moderated with frequent Rains, which it hath constantly three Moneths in the Year, _viz._ _June_, _July_, and _August_) that the Air is rendred thereby exceeding temperate, and the Climate not unhealthful, especially to temperate Bodies, and such as are never so little us’d to it. A goodly Countrey it is, of inexhaustible Wealth and Riches, whether we regard the Mynes of Gold, Silver, Brass, Iron, _&c._ of all which it hath many, and very good; or the Fruits of the Earth, abundance of Cattel, plenty of Corn and Grain, of which they have two Harvests; or any other Commodities and Endowments of Nature, which serve for the enriching of the World. Amongst other things, it affords _Cassia_, the Fruit whereof is a thing well known, and much commended by the Apothecaries for its use in Physick, especially in Purgations, and removing of all Obstructions of Phlegm, Choler, _&c._ Such store of Balm, Amber, all sorts of Gums and precious Liquors, as no Countrey in the World is better furnish’d with excellent Perfumes and Physick, than the Kingdom of _New Spain_. [Sidenote: _Tunas_-Tree.] Among the many other sorts of Trees which this Countrey produces, the most remarkable is their _Tunas_, of which, there being five kinds, one is call’d _Cumbeba_, from whence proceeds that admirable Tincture, commonly known by the Name of _Cochinele_, which is thus made: On the top of this Tree is found a Worm, which hath the bigness and shape of a great Louse, which so increases, that in one years time a hundred Trees shall be stock’d from the seed of one of these Animals. The Worm it self being white, after the Skin is carefully pull’d off, put in cold Water or Ashes, and so dry’d, becomes _Cochinele_. The best sort of it is to be had in _Tlascala_, and that in so great a quantity, that no less than five or six hundred _Arrobes_ of _Spanish_ Measure (each _Arrobe_ is as much as five _English_ Bushels) is yearly Transported thence. The other sort, which grows on the Mountains, and that which is not so carefully gather’d, call’d _Chichimecas_, Dyes not so well as the right _Cochinele_. The _Tunas_ also bears a Fruit long and whitish, with a smooth Shell, and full of little Seeds like Figs: The red, which are inferior in taste to the white, colours the Urine red. [Sidenote: Pine-Apples.] The Pine-Apples which grow here differ from the _Spanish_, for the Pulp is not inclos’d in a Shell: They have a pleasant smell, and a Pulp, which if eaten much of, causes an Appetite, it being of a tartish taste; they keep good a long time when Salted. [Sidenote: Fruit _Cacao_.] But much more beneficial is the _Cacao_, with which Fruit _New Spain_ drives a great Trade; nay, serves for Coin’d Money. When they deliver a Parcel of _Cacao_, they tell them by five, thirty, and a hundred. Their Charity to the Poor never exceeds above one _Cacao_-Nut. The chief reason for which this Fruit is so highly esteem’d, is for the _Chocolate_, which is made of the same, without which the Inhabitants (being so us’d to it) are not able to live, notwithstanding it causes Phlegm and Vomiting to those that are strangers thereto. When the _English_ Commander _Thomas Candish_ coming into the Haven _Guatulco_, burnt two hundred thousand Tun of _Cacao_, it prov’d no small loss to all _New Spain_, the Provinces _Guatimala_ and _Nicaragua_ not producing so much in a whole year. The Trees on which this Fruit grows are divided into four sorts, differing in bigness and shape: all of them are very tender, for they will not onely grow in no place but on their usual Ground, but cannot endure the cold Nights Storms, or excesses of Heat; wherefore the _Cacao_-Trees which grow out of the Fruit that falls off, come to no perfection, except in shady and warm Valleys; which is also the reason why the Planters of _New Spain_ plant the great Leafy Tree _Cacaoquanthly_ (that is, _The Mother of the Cacao_’s) near the _Cacao_-Tree, that it may the better grow under the Shadow thereof; in which manner whole Woods are planted: In the second year it bears Fruit, which is first ripe in _January_, and again in the midst of Summer. Amongst the four sorts the chiefest is _Quathuitl_, of an indifferent heighth, and full of sharp-pointed Leaves, which are fast to the Boughs without Stalks, and bears a great Flower of a yellowish colour, which falling off, leaves long, tough, and hairy Threds behind them, out of which grows the _Cacavently_, a Fruit which is oval, heavy like a Melon, of a Saffron-colour, of a fat and thick Juice, a bitterish, yet pleasant taste, and very cooling; being dry’d in the Sun it is thereby made fit to keep; it is likewise highly esteem’d, because the _Chocolate_ is made of the same. Before the _Spaniards_ made themselves Masters of _Mexico_, no other Drink was esteem’d but that of the _Cacao_; none caring for Wine, notwithstanding the Soil produces Vines every where in great abundance of it self. But besides the _Quathuil_, _New Spain_ hath three other sorts of _Cacao_-Trees, _viz._ _Mecanal_, pleasant to behold for its heighth, large Leaves and Fruit; the next is the _Xochucaual_, which is less than the former; and lastly the least sort, which is call’d _Halcacahual_. The Fruit of these four sorts of Trees, though differing in shape, yet is all one in power and operation. [Illustration] The _Spaniards_ to make _Chocolate_ mix _Maiz_ (by the _Mexicans_ call’d _Tlaolli_) either whole or Ground, or boyl’d before with Chalk. Moreover, they put the red Kernels also in the Drink, which grow in the Fruit of the _Achiote_-Tree. Of the Kernels, which are dry and cooling, boyl’d in Water, and stirr’d till it comes to a Pap, they make Cakes, which mix’d with the _Chocolate_, gives it a cleansing power, and takes away all tastes that cause vomiting. The Pepper _Mecaxochite_, which grows creeping along the Earth, with long and fragrant Leaves, round Stalks, hairy Roots, and three long Cods which shoot upwards. This Pepper tempers the over-cooling property of the _Chocolate_. Lastly, it consists also of _Xochinacatlis_, _Tlilxochitle_, and the Rozenish Gum, _Holli_. The _Xocinacatli_ is a Tree with small Leaves, and great Flowers hanging on long Stalks that bend downwards, within of a purple, and without of a dark-green colour, of a sweet smell, and resembling an Ear; and this Flower also gives a pleasant taste and wholsom operation to the _Chocolate_. The _Tlilxochitle_ runs up to the tops of Trees like Ivy; the Flowers, of a darkish brown colour, cleanse the Nerves, strengthen the Brain, and take away the rawness of the Stomach. The _Holli_ drops out of the _Holquabuytle_, a smooth barky Tree full of Moisture, which at first appearance is white, then yellowish, and lastly black, which kneaded into round Balls and Roasted, is a remedy against a Loosness and soreness of the Bowels. [Sidenote: Nature of the People.] The Natives of the Countrey are very ingenious in divers mechanical Arts, especially in making of Feather-Pictures, a piece of Curiosity wherein they are held to be incomparably, or rather inimitably excellent; and so industrious at it, that although the _Americans_ generally are not a People over-much addicted to any kind of Labor or Study, yet at this they will sit a whole day together, without either Meat or Drink, onely out of a natural affection they have to the Work, and a desire to be excellent in it; The Countrey indeed affords them great variety of Birds and other Fowl, of most rare and exquisite Colours, which is a great advantage to their Skill, and helps much to the accomplishment of their Work. They Paint likewise very curiously upon their Cottons; and are held to be generally the best Goldsmiths in the World; of most perfect skill in the purging and refining of all sorts of Metals, but especially of Gold and Silver: And yet in other things so strangely stupid and ignorant, that when the _Spaniards_ first appeared amongst them, not a few of them (as ’tis reported) took the Horse and Man both for one Creature; and when the Horse Neighed, they would enquire very seriously what he said. [Sidenote: Lakes of _New-Spain_.] There are likewise many fair Lakes in this Province, but the principal are those of _Chapala_ and _Mexico_: the former of which is in the more Northern parts of the Kingdom, towards the Borders of _New Gallicia_, and is chiefly famous for the abundance of good Salt that is yearly made and Transported thence. The other of _Mexico_ is one of the largest and goodliest in the World, of circular form (as some say) little less than nine hundred Miles in compass, environ’d with the main Land, the _Peninsula_, or Cape of _Florida_, _Jucatan_, and the Island _Cuba_, having two onely Passages in and out, and both of them well fortifi’d: the one betwixt the Point of _Jucatan_ and the Isle _Cuba_, where the Tyde violently enters; and the other betwixt the said Island and the Cape of _Florida_, where it goeth as violently out: upon which Gulf the King of _Spain_ hath always some good Ships in readiness for all occasions; and by them, ’tis suppos’d, he doth more assure his Estates in those parts of _America_, than by all the Garrisons besides. The whole Kingdom of _Mexico_, or _New Spain_, is subdivided into these Inferior Provinces: [Sidenote: The several Provinces.] 1. The Arch-bishoprick of _Mexico_. 2. The Bishoprick, _Mechoacon_. 3. _Los Angelos_, or _Tlascale_. 4. _Guaxaca._ 5. The Lordship _Panuco_: And 6. the Province _Tabasco_. _Mexico_, the chief Province of _New-Spain_, so denominated from _Mexico_ the chief City, not only of the Province, but of all _America_; lying between _Tlascale_ and _Mechoacan_, extends in length from North to South, a hundred and seventeen Leagues; and in breadth along the Southern Ocean, seventeen, but up in the Countrey, fifty four Leagues: In which circumference lie to the North-East, _Lateotlalpa_, _Mextitlan_, _Xilotepeque_, and _Panuco_; Westward, _Matalzingo_, and _Cultepeque_; Eastward, _Tuzcoco_; South-East, _Chalco_; Southward, _Suchimilco_, _Tlaluc_, _Coyxca_, and _Acapulco_. [Illustration: NOVA MEXICO] [Sidenote: Bounds of _Mexicana_.] It is bounded on the East, with the Gulf of _Mexico_; on the West, with _Mechoacan_; on the North, with _Panuco_, and some parts of _New-Gallicia_; and on the South, with _Tlascalla_. [Sidenote: Nature of the Countrey.] This Countrey is both large and rich, containing not much less than one hundred and thirty Leagues, both in length and breadth; and if it yields any thing to _Peru_ in the plenty of Gold and Silver, ’tis certain it much excels it in many other Commodities; as namely, in all sorts of Fruits, abundance of Cattel, plenty of Corn and Grain; in all which, the advantage this Countrey hath, not only of _Peru_, but of all the other Provinces of _America_ beside, is well known: Not to speak any thing of the great plenty and variety of good Fish, which both the Rivers and Lakes of this Countrey afford, which is very great; insomuch, that the very Tribute of the one Lake of _Mexico_ is said to yield an Income of above twenty thousand Crowns yearly, one with another. The People of the Countrey are generally Industrious and Active, especially since the _Spaniards_ came among them; rich Merchants, if they apply themselves to it; and they say likewise good Soldiers, when they are train’d and imploy’d that way. [Sidenote: Chief Towns of _Mexicana_.] The chief Towns and places of the Province are, 1. _Mexico_, both anciently and at present, the Metropolis and Capital City; being the Seat of an Archbishop, and the ordinary Residence of the Vice-Roy, and chief Governors of _New-Spain_. [Sidenote: Description of the City _Mexico_.] This City, by the _Indians_ was formerly call’d _Tenustatan_, lies in nineteen Degrees and a half to the Northward of the _Equinoctial-Line_, rais’d out of a brackish Lake, full of muddy Water; whose circumference along the Mountains is seventy Leagues: This Lake swarms continually with Boats, which carry the People to and again from one inhabited Island to another; four Stone-bridges, no less costly than artificial, with Arches and Gates in several places, lead from the City to the Main Continent. The fresh Water which they have in the City _Mexico_, is led into the same through Pipes that lie in the bottom of the Lake; but none are to enjoy the benefit thereof, before they have paid a certain Sum of Money to the King’s Collectors. Moreover, the City divided into Islands, contains above sixty thousand Houses, which being built on several Isles, have large Bridges, which reach from one to another; some that lie in the middle of the Lake, they approach in little Boats; round about the Lake, especially where the way leads from the Continent into the City, lie several Suburbs, all inclos’d with Walls; between which stand strong Towers, cover’d on the top: To keep off the force of the Water, the _Tenustatans_ have with great labor and charge, made a Bank through the Lake, half way along the City: But the Lake _Laguna_, from whose bottom _Mexico_ is rais’d, is divided in two parts, the _Sweet Lake_, which is higher than the _Salt_, falls in to the same through Sluces, with Bridges built on the Bank that leads from the City to the main Land: The _Salt-Lake_, which hath brackish and bitter Water, ebbs and flows according as the Wind blows; no Fish is able to live in the same, because the Water which in the sight of _Mexico_ falls into the same out of the Mountains, hath a sulphury Ground: All along the shore, much Salt is made, with which the Citizens drive a great Trade: There are continually above a hundred thousand Boats (by the _Indians_ call’d _Acales_, and by the _Spaniards_, _Canoos_) going off and on from one shore to another: The fresh Water Lake, which is bigger than the salt, and feeds small Fishes, hath above fifty Suburbs about the same, of which, some boast five thousand, and others ten thousand Houses: Nay, the Suburb _Tescuco_, in former times was no way inferior to _Mexico_ in bigness; since the _Spaniards_ have been Masters of this City, they stopt up many Moats, to inlarge their narrow Streets. Besides three publick Markets, every open place affords all sorts of Provisions daily; the _Indians_ call the Markets _Tianguystly_, and the _Spaniards_, _Tianguez_; the first and chiefest stands in _Tatelulco_, adorn’d with Galleries on three sides; in the middle of this Square, which is accounted the biggest in the World, stands next to the place of Execution, a stately Fountain; the Tents which are every Week pitch’d up here for Trade, amount to above thirty thousand. The second Market call’d St. _John_’s, is in _Mexico_, and swarms continually with People. The third is call’d _Hipolito_, from the _Guardian-Saint_ of the City, whither every Wednesday and Thursday comes such a multitude of People, that this spacious Market is too little for them; for the sale of every Commodity, a peculiar corner is allotted; but great Packs are left to be dispos’d of in Boats, which lie near the shore. At the four corners of the City, at present call’d _St. John_, _St. Maria la Rotonda_, _St. Pablo_, and _St. Sebastian_, are above four thousand _Spanish_ Families, and thirty thousand _Indians_, besides what inhabit _Tatelulco_, now _St. Jago_. [Sidenote: The Temperature of the Air.] The Air in this place is very strange; in the day time, the Sky is generally Serene; the North Wind against the Evening brings Rain, of which the Mountain _Tepeaquilla_ lying a little League beyond the City, gives certain Testimonies; for when a black Cloud appears on the top thereof, it is certain to be blown from thence over _Mexico_ with Rain: After a moist Evening follows a Star-light Night, and a pleasant Morning: From _September_ till _May_, it is generally dry Weather here, but if it chances to Rain, the Rain is attended with a Storm, which occasions a sulphurous Fogg, very unwholsom, and so dark, that one Man cannot discern another, and causes a pain through all the Limbs, nay sometimes Death it self; wherefore, whensoe’re it approaches, every one keeps close in his House, or goes into the Countrey. Moreover, it is worthy of observation, how strangely this City is alter’d since its being Conquer’d by the _Spaniards_, and especially when _Anno 1629._ it was overflow’d by a mighty Deluge; which alteration by _Barnabe Cabo_, in a Letter to the _Jesuite Hernande Leon_, is thus set forth: [Sidenote: _Barnabe Cabo_, his Description of Mexico.] [Sidenote: _Mexico_ overflow’d.] _Mexico_, says he, lying in a Valley between high Mountains, hath seventy Leagues in circumference: The Valley being Oval, is for the most part interspers’d with Lakes, which the _Indians_, and after them the _Spaniards_ have digg’d, only the Lake which washes _Mexico_ is natural; and to stop the Water-falls, there are Banks and Sluces every where: The Flood before _Mexicalcingo_ flows a Fathom and a half higher than before _Mexico_. The four other Lakes to the Northward have much more Water than the _Mexicalcingo_, of which, some have scarce four, others but three Leagues in circumference; when as _Mexicalcingo_’s Lake reckons fifteen, and _Mexico_’s sixteen. On the breaking of the Banks, _Mexico_ hath often suffer’d great damage, wherefore the Vice-Roy _de Valesco_ took special care to make a vent for the Water through the lowest Mountains; whereupon the Countrey being Survey’d, the Northern Coast near the Village _Gueguenoca_, was found to be the most convenient. But about the manner of letting the Water out, the Surveyors could no ways agree; most of them were of opinion to dig Channels, into which the Lakes might discharge their Waters; others, thought best to make a Gutter under Ground, which last _Valesco_ put in hand with unhappy success, because the Laborers who under-min’d the Ground, were choak’d with the falling in of the Sand, or stifled with the sulphurous Vapors rising out of the Earth: Nevertheless, they gave not over the Work, though they began it quite another way, for a _French_-Man, call’d _Henry Martin_, advis’d to deepen the River _Quaiotitlan_, which falls into the _Laguna_, and by that means make it a Bay, into which the _Laguna_ might pour her over-charg’d Waters: Which design, though contradicted by the Jesuit _John Sanchez_, was put in practice; by which means the Water fell in a short time so much, that they could walk dry to the Cliff _El Ponnel_, lying a League from the City; wherefore they continually labour’d on this Work, till such time _Conde de Getues_ came over for Vice-Roy, who judg’d the Charge to be unnecessary, nay Commanded the Ditches to be broken down, which stopt the Water along the Silver Mines of _Pachuca_, that he might see exactly how much it would over-flow _Mexico_: After which the Flood rose yearly higher and higher; till at last, _Anno 1629._ a mighty Rain falling, swole the _Laguna_ in such a manner, that it over-whelm’d all _Mexico_, wash’d down the Houses, all Merchandizes which could not endure the Water, were spoil’d, and had not they had innumerable Boats to help them, thousands of People might have perish’d in this Deluge: But at last, _Henry Martin_ restor’d again the fore-mention’d Channel to its former Perfection, and brought the Flood which fell down out of the Mountains within the Banks of the River. [Sidenote: Stately Palaces.] _Quantitlan_ digg’d also a Channel of eight thousand Fathom long, and made an Arch’d Sewer under Ground of the same length, which Sewer hath at every two hundred Fathoms distance, Vent-holes, and a hole of sixty Fathom deep, and by this means, diverting abundance of Water, they dry’d _Mexico_ in a short time: When the Banks and Streets began no sooner to appear, but they fell to work to raise the Ground, and to lay Bridges, and also to build more Boats. The Citizens likewise found it convenient to make another deep Sewer for the carrying away of more Water, notwithstanding it requir’d twenty years labor. The River, which in a manner runs through the middle of the City, is curb’d by a Wall; a crooked Bridge, with many Arches, and of a long extent, leads to the City, in which stand many brave Palaces, with pleasant Walks of Trees about them; the Cloysters of several Orders of Fryers, appear with high Spires and Turrets, above all other Buildings. [Sidenote: And Monasteries.] The _Franciscans_ have here four very sumptuous Buildings: The first, Consecrated to St. _Francis_, stands in the uppermost part of _Mexico_, within a large square Court, and on each a pleasant Walk of Trees: The Cloyster it self is very high, and trebble Wall’d, with Towers and Galleries about it: In the middle of the City stands another Tower’d-Cloyster, call’d St. _Jago_. The third lies a little distance from it, which being built long, hath a stately Turret, and is call’d _Maria de Rodonda_. The fourth, not far from the first, but much smaller, is nam’d _San Diego_; these belong to the _Franciscans_. The _Augustin_ Monks are also no way inferior to the _Franciscans_, for magnificent Structures, with spacious Halls, high Towers, and rich Balconies: The first is denominated from St. _Augustine_, just behind which appears _San Pabla_, less stately than the rest. St. _Sebastian_, near the _Laguna_, is built in manner like a Church, whose Tower ends like a Pyramid. The Cloyster _San Cruz_, belonging also to the _Augustines_, built square, stands near the Market, in the middle of which stands a stately Fountain: The Court within inviron’d with thick Walls, amazes the beholders by the pleasantness of its situation. Moreover, the _Dominicans_ inhabit two brave Cloysters; the chiefest Dedicated to St. _Dominic_, is eight square; to which is adjoyning a pretty large Church, with a Steeple: The second, which stands on one side of _St. Jago_, and consists of three several Structures, is call’d _Collegio de Porta Cœli_. Opposite to _St. Jago_, near the great Market the _Jesuits_ have a stately Colledge, or High-School, where many are brought up in the Latin and Greek Tongues, whence it is call’d, _Casa Professa Les Estudios_. There is also another Habitation of Religious Men, call’d _Illefonse Sanna Noviciad_, which for State, may vie with any Royal Palace. [Sidenote: Cloysters belonging to the _Monks_ of _La Merced_.] The _Monks_ of _La Merced_ dwell in two Cloysters, both Consecrated to the Virgin _Mary_, yet Sirnam’d _Montseratte_, and _Carmel_: The first lying not far from the River, is a mean Structure, in comparison to the last; the uppermost Tower of whose Temple appears above all other Buildings, in the upper part of _Mexico_ near the Cloyster of St. _Francis_. [Sidenote: Womens Cloysters.] The Women have also fourteen Cloysters here, the chiefest whereof is Dedicated to _Catharine_ of _Siena_; but much more splendid is that of _Santa Teresa_, built like an Imperial Palace; famous for its stately Gardens, and round Fountain, which continually spouts Water. The rest, which we shall onely name, are _La Encarnacio_, _Santa Ines_, _Jesus-Maria_, _Laurenso_, _Las Des-calcas_, _Santa Clara_, _Juan de la Penitentia_, _Regina Cœli_, _Santa Monica_, _las Rocogidas_, _Jeronymo_, and _Conceptione_; besides the Almshouses, _Real de los Indios_, and _Nostra Senora del Amor_: There are likewise eight Hospitals, _viz._ _de Dios_, _del Spiritu Santo_, _Juan de Doys_, _de la Misericordia_, _de san Hippolito_, and _de san Lazaro_. The three chief Churches bear the Name of _Catharine_, _Martin_, and _Vera Cruz_; and the Clergy-men thereto belonging, enjoy many stately Palaces, amongst which are _Juan de Lateran_, _de Christo_, and _las Nivas_. [Sidenote: The Vice-Roy’s Palace and Arch-bishop’s Seat.] The Residence of the Vice-Roy which lies near the _Dominican_ Cloyster, _Porto Cœli_, is so sumptuous a Structure, that it may stand in competition with any of those Edifices which were so much cry’d up by the Ancients; nevertheless, it is not to be compar’d to the Arch-bishop’s Seat, built round like a Theatre, whose Luster expresses the Quality of him that inhabits the same, he being Governor of the Bishopricks of _Fascala_, _Guaxaca_, _Mechaocan_, _New Galicia_, _Chiapa_, _Yucatan_, _Guatimala_, _Verapaz_, and the _Philippinas_. This marvellous Structure was begun by _Ferdinand Cortesius_, but was finish’d by _Sebastian Ramires de Fuenleal_; and not much inferior thereunto is the _Casa de Cabildo Alameda_. [Sidenote: The gallantry of _Mexico_ at this day.] At present, _Mexico_ is thought to be one of the richest Cities of the World, abounding (if reports be true) in all kind of voluptuous gallantry and bravery, even to excess: It is suppos’d to contain about six or seven Miles in compass, and to consist of above an hundred thousand Houses or Families, whereof not the tenth part _Spaniards_, but those that are, all Gentlemen, at least as to their garb and manner of living; for they live most splendidly in all respects, both for Diet and Apparel. For the first, we have spoken so much already of the general plenty of all things in the Kingdom of _New-Spain_, that pertain to this part of pleasure, that it is not to be doubted: And for the second this may be some instance, _viz._ that it is no extraordinary matter to see an Hat-band or Role all of Diamonds, in some ordinary Gentlemans Hat; and of Pearl among the common Citizens and Tradesmen. The Coaches (which most Gentlemen keep) almost cover’d with Gold and Silver, richly beset with Precious Stones, and within ordinarily lin’d with Cloth of Gold, or the best _China_ Silk that can be gotten; of which Coaches, in time of year, at the _Alameda_, as they call it, which is, as it were, _The Hide-Park of Mexico_, and a place made of purpose for recreation and delight, a Man shall observe not seldom, above a thousand or two thousand Coaches, full of Ladies and Gallants coming thither onely to take the Air, and their Pleasure, both the one and the other attended with a numerous Train of Servants and _Mulattoes_ of both Sexes. In _la Plateria_, which is but onely one Street in _Mexico_, nigh to the Vice-Roy’s Palace, in less than half an hours space: with the turn of an Eye, you may see Millions of Wealth in Gold, Silver, and Precious Stones, in the Goldsmiths and Jewellers Shops thereabouts. In a word, there is nothing hinders _Mexico_ from being the most absolute City in the World for delight and bravery, but onely two Inconveniences to which it is subject: The one is the danger of the Lake, with the Infalls whereof it may seem to be almost continually threatned, and in the Year 1629. did actually suffer a very great calamity, the Waters breaking through the Banks, and drowning a great part of the City, with the destruction of much People, and the loss of all their Goods intirely, through the avarice (as is suppos’d) of the Vice-Roy that then was, and some other of the King’s Officers, who diverted the Money that should have been employ’d for the fortifying and repairing of the Banks, to their own proper uses: The other is from the nature of the Soil and Ground it self on which it standeth; which is found to have a tincture of _Sal_ Nitre in it, somewhat strong; and the Winds partly from the Lake it self, and partly from the Hills about it, raising the Dust of this Earth constantly every Evening, for many Moneths of the Year together, so violently, that the Air is even darkned therewith for some time: The Inhabitants are much annoy’d by it, and made subject to divers Hypocondriacal Pains and Infirmities, and sometimes kill’d with it, especially such as either cannot, or care not much to avoid it. The City lieth about sixty Leagues, or a hundred and fifty Miles distant from the _Atlantick_ or North Sea, from whence by the Port of _St. John d’Ullua_, or _Vera Crux_, (which are the usual Landing-places) there is a fair and easie March to _Mexico_, by the Cities of _Xalabar_, _Perotta_, _Puebla de los Angelos_, and _Tlascalla_, all of them open and unfortifi’d Places, (as likewise _Mexico_ it self) and the Countrey round about very rich and well accommodated with all things. [Sidenote: City _Chulula_.] The next City of note in ancient times was _Chulula_, which being built in a fruitful Plain, had above twenty thousand Dwelling-houses, and as many more Banquetting-houses. The number of the Temples and Turrets were equal with that of the days in the Year: The Government thereof belong’d to a Mayor and six Aldermen, and one chief Priest; for they never went upon the least Design before they had been at their Devotion; in which the Priest’s Office was onely to perfume the Idols four times in twenty four hours, _viz._ in the Morning, at Noon, after Sun-set, and at Midnight; at which times none durst be absent, but they us’d also a cruel Exercise on themselves, and one much more cruel on others, for on usual Feast-days they abstain’d from Meat, Drink, and Sleep, scourg’d their Bodies with knotted Cords after a miserable manner, evacuated their Seed, that so they might curb all fleshly Desires, and met every Night in a spacious place, where sitting down they wounded themselves with Lances in their Legs and Arms, so long till the Blood gush’d out of the same; which gathering in a Cup, they anointed their Temples therewith, and dipt the Lances in the same, and then hung them up before the Temple in Bundles of Straw. Of these were a great number, and the more, because they never us’d their Lances but once. But on these Days, which were Consecrated to the Idol _Tezcatlipuca_, every one besides the Priests wore a new Rope made of the Hemp _Mangey_, of a Fathom long, and a thick Knot at the end, with which they beat themselves so miserably on their Backs, as if they intended to have broken them: After which the Priests stay’d five days in the Temple, in which they us’d the like cruelty, eating scarce once in twenty four hours. Their Prisoners they us’d after a most horrid manner, _viz._ in their Temples stood a round Stage of Stone; to the top of which they ascended by a Square Scaffold, supported by twenty eight Pillars; behind which appear’d thousands of Mens Heads, and amongst them the Prisoners that were to be Offer’d sat stark naked, and guarded by several Armed Men; three Foot from the Steps which led up to the top of the Scaffold, stood a pyramidical Stone, (by the _Indians_ call’d _Quauxicalli_) and behind it two round Chappels, cover’d on the top like Mitres, each had four Holes in a large Gate, in which sat a horrid Representation, worshipp’d by six Priests call’d _Chackalmua_, whereof one call’d _Papas_, or _Topilzin_, whose Office was to pluck out the Hearts of the Prisoners, being in greatest esteem, wore a red Mantle about his Body, not unlike a long Coat, with broad Fringe, which trail’d after him upon the Ground, and also a Crown of green and yellow Plumes on his Head; his Ears and under Lip were likewise adorn’d with Precious Stones: The other five appear’d in like manner with their Hands and Faces painted red, but having Leathern _Fascia_’s about their Heads, and white Coats stitch’d with Black on their Bodies, they might easily be distinguish’d from the _Topilzin_; who on a sudden ran down the Stairs to the Prisoners, and shew’d each of them an Image, (saying, _This is your God_) made of _Bledo_ Paste, _Maiz_ and Honey, green Beads for Eyes, and Grains of _Maiz_ for Teeth: whereupon the Prisoners were led up, and laid with their Backs on the sharp Stone _Quauxicalli_; then the five Priests took hold of their Leggs, Arms and Head, put woodden Collars about the Sufferer’s Necks, whilst the _Topilzin_ shew’d Reverence to the Idol; which done, with a sharp Stone he cut open the Breasts of the Prisoners, who in a deplorable condition lay on the pyramidical Stone, and pulling their Hearts out of their Bodies, shew’d the same reeking to the Sun, and at last threw them toward the Idol, and the dead Bodies down the Stairs, where some appointed for that purpose carried the same away; but every one taking his own Prisoner, and roasting and boyling him, serv’d him up to his Friends as a great Dainty. This kind of Murdering was not onely us’d amongst the _Mexicans_, but also by all the other neighboring _Indians_, and especially in the City _Chulula_, which (as we have said before) signifies _The Sanctity of all the Gods_: for in this Town six thousand Children were yearly Offer’d. The Citizens hereof us’d to drive a great Trade, especially in _Cochinele_. Their Habits were several; for Persons of Note wore Cotton Coats, about the Edges of which hung Feathers and pieces of Cony-skins: the meaner sort went in _Nequons_, or a sort of Linnen Coats made of the hairy Leaves of the Tree _Maguey_. 3. The City _Tezuco_, full of handsom Streets and fair Houses, is built near the salt _Mexican_ Lake, yet hath no want of fresh Water, with which it is supply’d by Gutters from the Mountains under Ground, according to _Anthony Herrera_, it twice exceedeth in bigness the famous City _Sivill_ in _Spain_. 4. _Quitlavaca_, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Venezuela_, (because it is, like _Venice_, surrounded with Water, and divided into several Isles,) boasted formerly above two thousand Families: From the Town a Cawsey of twenty Foot broad, and half a League long, leads through the Lake to the Main Continent. 5. _Yztacpalapa_, a very populous Place, and lying part of it in the salt Lake, and partly on the Main Land; where several fresh-water Pools afford store of Fish, two Leagues distant from _Mexico_, to which leads a broad Way; in the middle of which stands a Fountain, surrounded with high Trees, which produces excellent Water. 6. _Mexicaltzingo_, situate upon the Lake _Laguna_, a Town consisting of four thousand stately Houses. 7. _Cayocan_, in a fruitful Plain, containing six thousand, being but a League and a half from _Yztacpalapa_: to which the neighboring Village _Houcilopucho_ was not much inferior. These three Places, before they were subdu’d by the _Spaniards_, boasted many brave Temples and high Towers, whose lustre appear’d at a great distance, but now being turn’d into Cloysters, they are inhabited by Monks and Nuns. The Salt made here of Earth, though not white, and onely fit to make Pickle of, is Transported to many Places. [Sidenote: Towns and pleasant Villages about _Mexico_.] About _Mexico_ there are also several Villages, the chiefest of which are 1. _Mastitlan_, a Town pleasantly seated upon the top of an huge Mountain, in the midst of most delicate Groves and shady Woods, and reckon’d to contain no less than thirty thousand Inhabitants in all, dwelling either in the City, or upon the sides of the Mountain. 2. _Antepecque_; this is a Town belonging to the Marquess _de Valle_, who is of the Posterity of _Cortez_, and said to be seated in the most delicious place of all _New Spain_. 3. _Acapulco_, a Town seated upon the South-Sea, or _Mare del Zur_, yet belonging to this Province. It is a haven-Town, and one of the most frequented upon the South-Sea, situate upon a large and capacious Bay of about a League broad at the Entrance, and affording many convenient Stations and Docks for Shipping. At the bottom of the Bay Westward lieth the Town, with a strong Castle very opportunely built, both for the command and security of the Port, well wall’d and fortifi’d with Bulwarks, and having a constant Garrison of four hundred Soldiers in it, or thereabouts. The reason whereof, I suppose, may be chiefly this, _viz._ that from this Port there is the greatest Traffick and Entercourse held betwixt the _East_ and _West-Indies_, together with the _Philippine_ Islands. [Sidenote: Silver Mynes.] The Countrey hath many rich Mynes of Silver in it, and some of Gold; the chief of which are by _Herera_ reported to be these, _viz._ 1. Those of _Puchuca_, fourteen Leagues distant from _Mexico_. 2. Of _Tasco_. 3. _Talpuiana._ 4. _Cultepeque._ 5. _Zacualpa._ 6. _Zupanguo_, and divers others. The rest of the Villages are _Guatitlan_, _Tenyauca_, _Escapusalco_, _Tacuba_, and _Suchimilco_. [Sidenote: Strange Fountain.] The neighboring Province _Xilotepeck_, which is exceeding fruitful, is also famous for two Fountains, whereof one near the Village _Queretaro_ produces boyling Water, which when cool’d, is a wholsom Drink for Cattel: The other for four years is full of Water, and for four years after it is empty; in great rainy Seasons it is quite dry, and in droughty Weather it overflows. Between the Villages _Queretaro_ and _San Juan_, is a Plain which extends it self seven Leagues in breadth, and seven in length, besides two Leagues farther beyond _Quartero_, where a hundred thousand Head of Cattel, and ten thousand Horses, find plentiful Pasture. [Sidenote: The wonderful Mountain _Nevada_.] The Mountain _Nevada_, near the City _De los Angelos_, deserves no small admiration; for it begins at thirty Leagues end to rise exceeding high, and being flat on the top, hath a wide gaping Mouth, whose bottom is fathomless; from which at Sun-rising and setting rises a Smoak up directly towards the Skie, but immediately after spreading like a Plume of Feathers, it is dispers’d by the Wind, and no more seen till it appears in a dusky Cloud. With the Smoak are also Ashes vomited up; yet the Mountain is very pleasantly planted with lofty Cypress, Cedar, Oak, and Pine-Trees. The neighboring Fields abound likewise with Wheat, Cotton, and _Maiz_. There seldom appears any Rain here. At the Foot of this Mountain lies the Village _Tepecco_, famous for the Crystal and Allom gotten there. The Village _Ocotlan_ is also maintain’d by the same: But _Tuculala_ by Gold-Mines, and fruitful Lands, which are twice a year shaken by Earthquakes; wherefore the Inhabitants live not in Stone Houses, but in little Straw Huts. South-Eastward from _Nerada_ is excellent Sugar to be had, and on the Mountain it self the famous Gum _Anime_, which drops out of a Tree call’d _Jetaiba_, which is always green, with hard white Wood, a pale yellow speckled Bark, three long soft Leaves hanging one over another on one Stalk, and the Fruit on the middle of the Body. After the rainy Season is past in _October_, then they cut a Hole in the Body of the Tree, out of which the Gum drops: it hath a pleasant smell, and is exceeding good against the Head-ache occasion’d by Colds. Not far from hence appears the Valleys _Matalzingo_ and _Atzompam_, which have excellent Pastures, in which _Diego Nunnez de Camargo_ bred forty thousand Sheep out of two in ten years time. And these are the chiefest Towns, Villages, and Countreys, which surround the famous City _Mexico_. [Sidenote: The first Foundation of the City of _Mexico_.] Concerning the erecting of this City, the _Indians_ relate thus: That the seventh Family of the _Navatlaca_’s, Extracted out of the Countrey _Aztlan_, rang’d up and down not without thousands of Inconveniences, from one Countrey to another, according to the Information which their Sages had given their Spirit _Viztliputli_, till at last some of the Priests straying from the Army, or rather Multitude, got into a Wilderness, full of Brambles and Thorns, and came at length to a Place where was a Spring of clear Water, in which the Fishes glitter’d like Silver; where taking up their repose that Night, their Spirit inform’d the oldest of them in a Dream, that they should find thereabouts a _Tunal_ Tree (whose Leaves grow out of one another) under which, on a Stone, lay the Heart of the famous Sorcerer _Copil_: This _Tunal_ Tree should be discover’d by a Crane on the top of it, which in one Foot should hold a Bird, and in the other a Bough of the Tree, near which they were to build a City: The old Priest waking, and relating his Dream, every one endeavor’d to find out the fore-mention’d Tree; at last they found it, by discovering on the top a Crane, with spread-out Wings looking up towards the Sun, and holding in his Claws a small Bird, invested with curious Feathers: Whereupon they with all speed built a Chappel of Turf and Clods of Earth, and cover’d the same with Canes, to keep their Idol from the Weather, resolving, so soon as they could, to build him a better Temple. The Lake on whose Isles they setled, abounded with Fish and Fowls, which they exchang’d with the neighboring People for Stone and Mortar for the building of a Temple for _Viztliputzli_, and a new City; to which they made a Cawsey in the Lake _Laguna_, and divided it into four great Wards or Divisions, and subdivided them again into lesser; over which they plac’d peculiar Idols, and order’d a Crane like that which they had seen on the _Tunal_ Tree to be their City Arms. The dividing of the Wards occasion’d great dislike amongst the Grandees, judging those to whose lot they fell, not to be worthy of them; wherefore deserting the same, and travelling along the Lake _Laguna_, they setled themselves at last in a sandy Soil, which they call’d _Tlattellulco_, and entertain’d a bitter hatred against their Countrey-men who kept the four Wards of the new _Tenustitan_, doing them all the mischief they could; wherefore the Assaulted were necessitated to chuse a King, that they might be the better able to oppose their Enemies: But that they might not raise a Discontent amongst themselves about electing a Governor, they judg’d it fittest to take a Foreigner; amongst whom they found none so capable of so great an Office as _Acamapixtli_, Grand-son to the King of _Culhuacan_, whereupon sending Ambassadors thither, they obtain’d their desires. The new King was no sooner Crown’d, but he settled all things in order with great Prudence, insomuch, that _Mexico_ grew daily to be more famous and fear’d: But this sudden growth rais’d a jealousie amongst the Neighbors, who dreaded their growing Power and Valor. [Sidenote: Proceedings between the _Tapuneca_’s and _Mexicans_.] The _Tapunecans_ who were also a valiant People, being the nearest to them, and having _Azcapuzalco_ for their chief City, made it their main design, utterly to root out the _Mexicans_, before they grew to be more Populous and Potent; notwithstanding they had hitherto receiv’d Tribute from them, for delivering the Lake _Laguna_ to them, which was a quantity of Timber and Plants; yet they demanded not only more Tribute than formerly, but also in such a manner, as was thought impossible to have been perform’d, which was, that those Plants which were formerly brought to them, as growing on the Land, should be set in the Water, so as to come floating to them, as they grew, to _Ascapuzalco_, which if they did not pay, they should expect to be all put to the Sword. The _Mexicans_ much amaz’d hereat, and not knowing how to produce the demanded Plants, _Viztliputzli_ inform’d the oldest Priest, that the demands might be satisfi’d; and commanded him to throw Earth on the Water, and to Sow Seed on the same, which at the usual time produc’d _Maiz_, _Azi_, _Chias_, _Tomates_, and the like, with which the _Tapunecans_ being satisfi’d, demand next a Goose, and a Hen which laid Eggs, out of which the young ones should appear, when on the floating Clods of Earth, the Nests came opposite to _Azcapuzalco_, which by the advice of _Viztliputzli_, they perform’d fifty years one after another. Mean while, _Acamapixtli_ (who had inlarg’d _Mexico_ with Streets, Palaces, Temples, and Markets) dying, would not name any one to succeed him, but left the choice of the Election to the Commonalty, who Crown’d his Son _Vitzilovitli_, and Marry’d him to the King of _Tapunecans_ Daughter, that by that means they might gain his friendship, and be eas’d of their strange Annual Tribute: Whereupon _Ayauchigual_, the King of _Tapunecans_ Daughter being Marry’d to _Vitzilovitli_, was within twelve Moneths deliver’d of a Son, which the Grand-father call’d _Chimalpopoca_, which signifies _A Gun which gives Smoke_, and afterwards was satisfi’d with two Geese, and some Fish yearly from the _Mexicans_, onely as an Acknowledgment that they inhabited his Countrey. _Chimalpopoca_ loosing his Parents, in his tenth year was Crown’d King, with a Bowe and Arrows in his left Hand, and a Woodden Sword in the right: Soon after he oblig’d his Mothers Father to be kind to the _Mexicans_, for they being in great want for fresh Water, he had leave by Channels to bring the same out of the Mountain _Chapultepec_, a League distant from _Mexico_; to which purpose they made a Pipe of Planks, and hollow Trees joyn’d together with Clay, quite through the Lake; but this Pipe not being teight and durable, and the fresh Water by that means mixing with the Salt, they sent Agents to _Azcapuzalco_, to request Stones, Mortar, and Work-men to make a substantial Sewer: This message was ill resented by the Council of _Azcapuzalco_; _What_, (said they) _do the_ Mexicans _think, shall a rambling company of people, which on Charity live in anothers Countrey, Command those that Govern them to be their Servants?_ This grudge went so far, that at last they took a Resolution without the King’s knowledge, (for he was suspected, because of his Grand-chil’d _Chimalpopoca_) to forbid all manner of Trade with the _Mexicans_; nay, to endeavor utterly to root them out; yet some judg’d, that they ought to spare _Chimalpopoca_, while others on the contrary said, _That he ought to be destroy’d, because his Father being a_ Mexican, _he would to the utmost of his Power defend his People_; which last being approv’d of, so troubled the King of the _Tapunecans_, that he dy’d of grief; for the Design being soon after put into execution, and the _Tapuneca_’s breaking in the Night into _Chimalpopoca_’s Palace, Murder’d him; which Murder made the _Mexicans_ thirst for revenge; whereupon, setting themselves wholly against the _Tapunecans_, they enter’d into a League with _Vezcuco_, and _Culhuacan_, and chose _Izcoalt_, for his great Valor, for their King; notwithstanding _Acamapixtli_ had begotten him on a Slave. [Sidenote: _Izcoalts_ success against the _Tapanecas_.] _Izcoalt_ was no sooner Crown’d, but he made great preparation for a War, though against every ones Opinion, because of the Populousness of the _Tapunecans_; yet it was concluded on, that they should request Peace, and a place to inhabit on the main Continent, that so they might remove from the Isles: This Request they thought could not be deny’d them in _Azcapuzalco_, provided the _Mexicans_ brought their Gods thither, and wholly conform’d themselves to the manners of the _Tapunecans_, for otherwise they could expect nothing but utter Ruine: Yet though every one else imbrac’d the Proposal, _Tlacaellel_, the King’s Nephew, stiffly oppos’d it, alleging, that it did not agree with the _Mexicans_ quality, to make so mean and slavish a Proffer; and that they had best consider, first if there were no other means to be found: and that he would willingly venture his Life in going to _Azcapuzalco_, as a Spie, to pry into their whole Designs and Intentions, which was perform’d accordingly; and soon after returning, he brought information, that the _Tapunecans_ were making great preparations for War, and made no mention at all of Peace; which news struck a general fear into all Peoples Hearts; many desiring that they might save themselves by flight; but _Izcoalt_ putting fresh courage into them, made an agreement with the People, that if he was beaten by the _Tapunecans_, they should eat him up; but if he prov’d Conqueror, they should all be at his Command; to which all consenting, they boldly march’d with their King to the City _Azcapuzalco_. The Front of the Army consisting of the prime Nobility, was led by _Tlacaellel_, and the Rear _Izcoalt_ brought up, who was also to give the sign on a Drum, when they should fall upon the Enemies; who having ten Men to the _Mexicans_ one, suddenly Sally’d out of the Gates, where they were so briskly entertain’d by _Tlacaellel_, that in a confus’d manner they soon ran back into the City, whither the Conqueror pursuing them, got within the Gates, where he put all to the Sword which he could meet with; some fled to a steep neighboring Mountain, whither being also follow’d, they threw down their Arms, and begg’d Quarter, to serve the _Mexicans_ as Slaves, which was granted them, whilst _Izcoalt_ found an unvaluable Mass of Treasure in _Azcapuzalco_, and distributed the Conquer’d Countrey amongst those who had behav’d themselves best. This Conquest made the neighboring People jealous of the _Mexicans_, whose Success and growing Power they dreaded. [Sidenote: The _Cuyoacans_ utterly subdu’d by _Tlacaellel_.] The Towns _Tacuba_ and _Cuyoacan_, though they had Governors of their own, yet were subject to the _Tapunecans_, whose General advising those of _Azcapuzalco_ to try another Encounter, they took up Arms again; but before it came to a Battel, the _Cuyoacans_ play’d a subtile trick with the _Mexicans_, for inviting them to an Idolatrous Feast, after they had Eat, Drunk, and Danc’d, they forc’d them to put on Womens Apparel, to their no small disgrace and ignomy; which remain’d not unreveng’d, for the _Mexicans_ made a Poysonous Fume in the Gates of _Cuyoacan_, which made Women with Child to Miscarry, and many to fall dangerously sick; yet lastly, both Parties march’d into the Fields, where whilst _Izcoalt_ was elsewhere ingag’d, _Tlacaellel_ marching about, came upon the backs of the _Cuyoacans_ with such eagerness, that they fled to a strong Temple, which soon after was set on fire by _Tlacaellel_, who pursu’d the Enemy ten Leagues. This Conquest stir’d up the _Suchimilcos_, the first Family of the _Navatlaca_’s, to stop the proceedings of the _Mexicans_, that they might not, as they had already done to others, fall upon them; to which purpose they thought to surprize the Conquering Army; but _Tlacaellel_ who led the Van, march’d in good Order to meet the _Suchimilcos_, fell resolutely upon their whole Army, and after a short conflict, put them to flight, and took the City _Suchimilco_ for _Izcoalt_, who being Crown’d King there, Commanded the Conquer’d to make a direct Road betwixt _Suchimilco_ and _Mexico_, of four Leagues long, both, that a Trade might the easier be drove between these two Cities, and to keep them the better in awe: Notwithstanding these examples, _Cuytlavacan_, a City built at the Lake _Laguna_, trusting to the abundance of Boats, which the Citizens knew how to use with great dexterity, daily molested _Mexico_ with them by Water, whereupon _Izcoalt_ resolv’d to send his Victorious Army thither, but _Tlacaellel_ opposing the same, promis’d to subdue the Rebelling City with a considerable number of Boys, which had skill in the managing of a _Canoo_, which being permitted him, he accordingly made himself Master of _Cuytlavacan_, from whence the Boys brought a great Booty, and divers Prisoners, whom they sent as an Offering to _Vitzlipultzli_. [Sidenote: _Tezcuco_ submits to the _Mexicans_.] These unheard of Victories being spread far and near, mov’d _Tezcuco_ after several Skirmishes and Conflicts with _Tlacaellel_, to submit to the _Mexican_ King, who chose the Governor thereof for his Prime Councellor. _Izcoalt_ Deceasing, after having Reign’d twelve years, his Son _Muteczuma_ was chosen his Successor; the Election and Coronation being perform’d after the following manner. [Sidenote: Coronation of _Muteczuma_.] The new King mantled in Tygers Skins, was led into the chief Temple before a Hearth, on which burnt Fire both Night and Day; not far from which stood the Throne, where sitting down, he Offer’d Blood, which was taken from his Cheeks, Ears, and Legs; after which, an Orator Congratulated him, in the name of the Nobility; which done, they ended the Solemnity in a great Dinner, Fire-Works, and Dancing: At the same time it was establish’d, that all Future Coronations should be kept with an Offering of Provisions, fetch’d by the King out of the Enemies Countrey: wherefore _Muteczuma_ going to the Countrey _Chalco_, took several of the Natives, whose reaking Hearts he Offer’d to _Viztlipuztli_: Which done, the Coronation follow’d, to which an innumerable company of People came flocking from all the neighboring Provinces: Those which were Tributaries, brought Presents with them, before which the Heralds carry’d the Coats of Arms belonging to the Nobility of _Mexico_, in a good order. [Sidenote: _Muteczuma_’s Brother taken Prisoner by those of _Chalco_.] [Sidenote: An example of great Fidelity.] Soon after the King’s Coronation, he march’d and fell upon _Chalco_, the Inhabitants of which defended themselves very Valiantly, took _Muteczuma_’s Brother, among several other Prisoners; to whom the Conquerors proffer’d the Government; which at first he refus’d, but at last accepted of on this condition, that a high Mast should be erected with a Scaffold on the top, which made every one suppose, that _Muteczuma_’s Brother did in that manner aim at a high Election, but he at the appointed time, getting on the top of the Mast, call’d with a loud voice, and spake to the taken _Mexicans_ which were there present to this effect: _Chalco seeks to set me on the Throne, the Heavens will not permit it; learn by me rather to die, than to live and be guilty of Treason to your Countrey_: which he had no sooner said, but with some Flowers which he held in his Hand, threw himself down from the Scaffold, which so inrag’d the _Chalcoans_, that they immediately slew all the other _Mexicans_ that were there present; which not long after was reveng’d by _Muteczuma_, who not onely subdu’d _Chalco_, but several other Provinces, leaving onely _Tlascala_ unattempted, that the _Mexicans_ might have a neighboring Enemy to fetch Prisoners from for their Offerings, and also by Skirmishing with them, train up their Youth in Martial Discipline. [Illustration] Thus his Predecessors and he, having Conquer’d divers Provinces, insomuch that he was now become absolute Emperor over a vast Tract of Land, he resolv’d to settle the same in good order; to which purpose he erected Courts of Judicature, with good Laws; built a stately Palace and Temple; ordain’d several Customs to be observ’d in Religion; which done, and having Reign’d twenty eight years, he Deceasing, left _Ticocic_ for his Successor. [Sidenote: Description of the Temple _Cu_.] The foremention’d Temple was call’d _Cu_, being built of Stone, in form like a Serpent, of an exceeding bigness, in the middle thereof there was a spacious open place, and round about it Habitations, two Stories high, the lowermost for the Inferior Priests, and the uppermost for the High Priests; in this place also above ten thousand People Danc’d in a Circle, on all high Feasts; four great Gates fac’d the like number of broad Streets, each two Leagues long: On the outmost Gate stood large Images, the Front of black Stones, Painted between each Lay with red and yellow Colours, no less Beautiful than Artificial: On each corner of the Temple were plac’d two Marble Statues of _Indians_, sitting with their Arms stretch’d out, and holding a Candle, and on their Heads Plumes of Feathers: Thirty high steps led up to a round place, set about with Deaths-Heads, which was a Stage appointed for the slaughter of those, whose Hearts were to be Offer’d to the Diabolical gods, and whose Heads, their Bodies being eaten, were brought back to the Priests, who hung them under the Stage, where every Head hanging till it dropp’d off, the vacant place was immediately supply’d with a fresh Head. At the end of the Stage stood two Chappels, cover’d like a _Cardinal_’s-Cap, in one of which sate the Image of _Tiztlputzli_, and in the other _Tlaloc_, to which led a hundred and twenty Stone steps. But besides this stately Temple _Cu_, _Mexico_ boasted nine more, standing not far asunder in a large Plain, all adorn’d with curious Imagery, and set out with large Pillars, each being Dedicated to a peculiar Idol, and built with magnificent Apartments, for the Priests to lodge in; the chiefest of them Dedicated to an Idol call’d _Tezeatlipuca_, or _Lord of the Humble_. This Temple was ascended to by eighty steps, and had before it a spacious Court; within a low and broad Gate appear’d a high Vail, which open’d into a spacious square Hall, hung with Tapestry, at the end whereof stood large Images, and beyond which were several Rooms, in which Assemblies met, Scholars were taught, Judges sate, and Priests Resided. [Sidenote: _Tlacaellel_ resigns the Kingdoms to _Ticocic_.] [Sidenote: _Axayacan_ chosen King.] But to return again to _Muteczuma_, his Funeral was no sooner finish’d, but the four Prime Councellors were attended by the Commissioners of _Tezcuco_ and _Tacuba_, in order to the Election of a new King: _Tlacaellel_ being the chief amongst the Dukes, was by a general Vote Saluted King, as being most worthy thereof, for his special Services shown in behalf of the Empire of _Mexico_: But he humbly refusing the same, was desir’d to Nominate another, whereupon he making choice of _Ticocic_, _Muteczuma_’s eldest Son; the Council immediately bor’d a hole through his Nose, and hung an Emrauld in the same. But before he receiv’d the Crown, he was forc’d, according to the Custom, to fetch in some of his Enemies for an Offering, which though he perform’d, yet he lost more _Mexicans_ than he took Prisoners, not without sufficient testimony of Cowardise; which being ill resented by the People, he was Poyson’d in the fourth year of his Reign, and succeeded by his Brother _Axayaca_, by the appointment of _Tlacaellel_; who having attain’d to a great Age, and left the Charge of his Children to the new King, departed this Life, to the great sorrow and grief of the whole Empire; by the States whereof he was Bury’d with great Solemnity. [Sidenote: His Victory against the _Teguantepecks_.] In the mean time, _Axayaca_ went with a considerable Army to the remote Province _Teguantepek_, to fetch Prisoners to be Offer’d at his Coronation; and marching before alone, Challeng’d his Antagonist, the King, to a single Combat, which he refus’d, and chose rather to fall upon _Axayaca_ with all his Forces; whereupon, the _Mexicans_ cunningly feign’d flight, ambuscaded themselves till the Enemies pursuing them, gave them their desir’d advantage, for rushing out of their Ambuscade, they set upon the _Teguantepecks_, so disorder’d, that they easily put them to flight, and had the pursuit of them as far as _Guatulco_, a noted Haven upon the South-Sea; from whence _Axayaca_ returning Victor, receiv’d a Crown for a Reward; yet notwithstanding these Proofs of his Valor, the Lord of _Tlatellulco_ Challeng’d him; whereupon he sent Agents thither, with proffers, that since the Citizens of _Tlatellulco_ were of one Blood with the _Mexicans_, whom they deserted upon the dividing of the Wards and Towns, just before the Election of the first King _Acamapixtli_, they should, if they pleas’d, be receiv’d anew into fellowship and alliance with the _Mexicans_, acknowledging one and the same King for their Supreme Head and Governor: But the Ambassadors being scorn’d and laugh’d at for their proffers, returning, related the same to _Axayaca_, who immediately marching thither to take revenge, sent part of his Army to fall on the Enemy by Water; whilst himself falling upon them by Land, put the Lord of _Tlatellulco_, with his whole Army, to flight, which was so closely pursu’d, that they forc’d their way into the City with them, put the Governor to Death, and laid the Town in Ashes; those which went by Water, having had no less success. [Sidenote: _Autzol_ succeeds him.] _Axayaca_, after eleven years Reign, Deceasing, bequeath’d his Crown to _Autzol_, who sought to promote his Election by ingaging with the mighty Province _Quaxutatlan_, whose Inhabitants, though but a little before, they had been so bold as to demand Tribute of the _Mexicans_, yet terrifi’d at the approach of _Autzol_’s Army, fled over an Arm of the Sea, where they had been secure, had not _Autzol_ invented a floating Isle of Planks, by which he got over his whole Army; upon which the amaz’d _Quaxututlans_ immediately submitted themselves to the _Mexicans_, who pursuing their Victory, extended their Dominions to _Guatimala_, over a Tract of three hundred Leagues. [Sidenote: _Autzol_’s Generosity and Magnificence.] The new King having now subdu’d all his Enemies, and made himself glorious by his Victories, was also ambitious to be as much extoll’d for his Generosity and Magnificence; to which purpose he distributed all the Wealth which was brought unto him from the neighboring Countreys, amongst the Poor and the Nobility; to the first he gave Clothes and Provisions; to the last, Plumes of Feathers and Arms. Moreover he caus’d all mean Houses to be pull’d down and new ones to be built in their places. Lastly, he consulted how to bring fresh Water into _Mexico_, which was plac’d in a brackish Soil: Upon this Design he was so bent, that when one of his Sages disswaded him from it, alledging, _That the Water would drown the City_, he, in stead of following his Advice, banish’d him his Presence, and upon his flying to _Cuyaocun_, caus’d him to be fetch’d from thence and Executed. Then prosecuting his Design, he cut the Ditch before _Cuyaocun_, by which means great store of fresh Water came flowing into the Lake _Laguna_, which the Priests welcom’d with strange Ceremonies; for some perfum’d the Water, others Offer’d Quails Blood, whilst others play’d on several Musical Instruments, with many other Ceremonies, which are at large describ’d in the ancient _Mexican_ Chronicles, kept in the _Vatican_ Library at _Rome_. But the Prophecy of the Executed Sorcerer was in a manner fulfill’d; for the Water overwhelm’d a great part of _Mexico_, and divided the City into Isles: But to prevent farther Mischief, _Autzoll_ caus’d Banks to be rais’d, and Channels digg’d; and not long after, in the eleventh Year of his Reign, he deceas’d: After which the _Mexican_ Kingdom tended towards its period, as the ensuing Story will declare. Amongst the _Mexican_ Nobility, _Mutexuma_, a melancholy Man, yet very prudent, who resided in a stately Apartment near the great Temple _Cu_, that there he might the better converse with _Viztlipuztli_, was elected King; which he no sooner heard, but fled from hence: but being found out, he was against his will led to the Grand Assembly, and from thence to the holy Hearth, where for an Offering he drew Blood out of his Cheeks, Ears, and Legs; and, according to an ancient Custom, the _Council of State_ boring a Hole in his Nose, hung an Emerauld in the same; after which the Lord of _Tescuco_ saluted him with a Speech; which (since it is mention’d by _Joseph d’ Acosta_, together with several other Speeches of Congratulation to their Kings, which were taught to Schollars, to make them expert in their Language) it will not be amiss to be annexed here, that of many this one may serve for a pattern of the _Mexicans_ Eloquence, which is as followeth: [Sidenote: The Lord of _Tescuco_ his Speech to _Muteczuma_.] “The great happiness, most noble _Muteczuma_, which is befall’n this Realm by your Election, may easily be conjectur’d from the general joy, none besides your self being able to undergo an Office, in the management whereof so much Prudence is requir’d: It is a most certain testimony that God loves _Mexico_, that he hath given its Inhabitants understanding to make such a Choice. Who can doubt, but that you who have expatiated through the Heavens, and convers’d with _Viztlipuztli_, may easily Govern us Mortals on Earth? Who can despair, but that the Vertue inclos’d within your Breast, will extend to the Widows and Orphans? Therefore rejoyce, O _Mexico_; the Heavens have granted us a Prince without Vice; Merciful, and not a Violator of the Laws; Affable, not despising common Conversation. And you, O King, let not this great Preferment occasion any alteration in your so long known Vertues: The Crown breeds care for the publick good; the troubles thereof must extend over the whole Realm, and every one in the Realm.” [Sidenote: Preparation for the Coronation of _Muteczuma_.] [Sidenote: His Grandeur.] [Sidenote: The ruine of the _Mexican_ Empire prognosticated.] _Muteczuma_ having heard out the Speech, would willingly have answer’d the same, but could not utter a word for Tears, which gush’d from his Eyes. Before he went out to fetch Prisoners for Offerings at his Coronation, he first setled his Houshold Affairs. And whereas till this time the Kings had been serv’d in their Palaces by ordinary Citizens, he took Knights, and the chiefest of the Nobility, intending thereby to make a distinction between the Nobility and the common People, and add more Majesty to the Royal Dignity. This done, _Muteczuma_ marching against a certain rebellious Province, fetch’d a considerable number of People to be Offer’d to _Viztupuztli_. At his Return the Coronation-Day was appointed, against which thousands of People came to _Mexico_; even their very Enemies of _Tlascala_, _Mechoacan_, and _Tepeaca_, which were never conquer’d by the _Mexicans_, flock’d thither in great numbers. All those Countreys which were under Tribute bringing unvaluable Treasures, came in vast Multitudes, which so throng’d the City, that the very tops of the Houses were fill’d with Spectators, no King in _Mexico_ ever going to the Throne in such splendor; nor was ever any King so much fear’d by his Subjects, none of the common People daring to look in his Face; neither did he ever set Foot on the Ground, but was always carried in a Chair on the Shoulders of his prime Nobility; he never wore a Suit of Clothes but once, nor ever us’d a Cup or Dish after it was once foul’d; he strictly maintain’d the Laws which he had made, and often went himself in a Disguise, to make a strict enquiry after all Affairs whatsoever; by which means the _Mexican_ Power was now arriv’d to the highest top: but, as other Realms, grown top-heavy with good Fortune, turn at last topsie-turvy, just such a Misfortune befell _Mexico_; but not without several fore-running signs of its destruction: for in the City _Cholola_ their God _Quezalcoalt_ inform’d them, that a strange People were coming to take possession of the _Mexican_ Dominions; and their Soothsayers prognosticated the same, for which _Muteczuma_ committed them all to Prison, and doubtless had put them all to death, had not they escap’d with the help of the Master of their diabolical Art; and though they escap’d themselves, yet their Wives and Children were all put to death upon the King’s Command: Soon after which appear’d a mighty Comet, or blazing Star for a whole year together; the great Temple _Cu_ was set on Fire, and burnt to the Ground none knew how; the Water which was thrown on the same to quench it, burnt like Brimstone; in the Skie appear’d three fiery Heads at noon-day, and out of a long Tail shot Sparks on the Earth; the _Laguna_, between _Mexico_ and _Texcuco_, began to swell into a Tide, which turn’d some Houses topsie-turvy; a shrill Voice was heard in the Night crying on the Water, _Children, your ruine is at hand; whither shall I carry you that you may not be lost?_ [Sidenote: A miraculous story of a Bird.] No less strange is what _d’ Acosta_ relates of a Bird presented to _Muteczuma_, not unlike a Crane, which the Fishermen had taken on the _Laguna_; on the shining Forehead of which there appear’d the resemblance of two Armies Engag’d, and one defeated by the other, and that whilst the Sages, call’d to interpret the meaning hereof, sat in Consultation, the Bird vanish’d. [Sidenote: Another of a Country-man.] Moreover, there goes a Tradition, That a Countrey-man being at his Labor, was taken up by an Eagle, and carried through the Air into a gloomy Cave, where a Man lay fast asleep snoaring, when on a sudden he heard a Voice afar off, saying, _Do you know that Man?_ whereupon the Countrey-man taking special notice of the dormant Man, knew him, by the Royal Apparel, to be _Mutexuma_; after which the Voice was heard again, saying, _How soundly doth he sleep: the time is coming which provides Punishments for many Crimes; burn the Snoarer with the Torch which he holds in his Hands, he will feel no pain_: Not long after he being inform’d hereof, and looking on his Thigh, found the same burnt, to his no small amazement. [Sidenote: News of the arrival of the _Spanish_ Fleet.] Having now possess’d the Throne fourteen years, he receiv’d news of a Fleet, and therewith a Draught of the Men and Vessels painted on Cloth. This startling him, he immediately advis’d with his Council, who judg’d it convenient to secure the Coast along the Southern Ocean with strong Watches; yet nevertheless _Ferdinand Cortesius_ Landed with five hundred Foot and sixty Horse, took the City _Potanchanum_, march’d through the Countrey _Sicuchimalar_ to _Tascalleca_, where they had a sharp Conflict, in which the _Spaniards_ were in great danger; and had not they had six Field-Pieces with them, which did as much affright as hurt the _Indians_, they had without doubt been cut off there. In _Chiurutecal_ they were in as much danger; for certainly the _Spanish_ Army had been set upon in the Night, had not a Woman inform’d them of it. [Sidenote: _Muteczuma_ committed to Prison by _Cortesius_.] Mean while _Muteczuma_ consulted with his Sorcerers to destroy _Cortesius_ by Charms, who then was marching through _Chalco_, whereupon a considerable number of Sorcerers went thither to the top of a high Mountain, where, as they were beginning their Incantations and Charms, their Idol _Tezcalipuca_ appear’d to them; and in an angry manner told them, That _Muteczuma_ should lose his Crown and Life; and to confirm his words, he shew’d them a dreadful spectacle; for looking about, they saw the City in a light flame. This being told to _Muteczuma_, he resolv’d to make himself as secure as he could, and went to meet _Cortesius_ with costly Presents, delivering him the Crown in the presence of all his Council; to which purpose he took one _Marina_, experienc’d in the _Castilian_ Tongue, with him for his Interpreter; all things then seeming to end in Friendship. But they continu’d not long in that state; for _Cortesius_, whose whole Design was to bring _Mexico_ under the _Spaniards_ Subjection, not long after accus’d _Muteczuma_, that _Coalcopoca_ had on his Commands storm’d the new _Spanish_ City _Vera Crux_, which he could no way excuse; and notwithstanding _Muteczuma_ deliver’d him _Coalcopoca_, with fifteen of his Nobles Prisoners, who were all burnt with green Wood; yet he was committed Prisoner, to the great discontent of the _Mexicans_, who said, “That they were now come to a fine pass, to be thus fool’d by a few Strangers, who had imprison’d their King, trampled upon their ancient Images, endeavor’d to murther them all, and in despite of them brought their mortal Enemies, the _Tascaltecans_ and _Guazuzingans_, into _Mexico_.” [Sidenote: _Cortesius_ marches against _Velasquez_’s Party.] About this time there were certain Ships come to _Vera Crux_, which was a new Port-Town of this Countrey, that the _Spaniards_ had built since their coming thither, and had Landed near upon a thousand Men; which was an Accident that had like to have spoil’d the Design of _Cortesius_ and all his Company at _Mexico_, these Men being sent by _James Velasquez_; Governor of _Cuba_, expressly against _Cortesius_ and his Men, upon pretence that they had acted not conformably to the Commission which they had receiv’d from him, and gave him no account of their proceedings; which in a great measure was true: for it must be confess’d, that _Cortesius_ and his Men finding themselves to have fall’n upon an Adventure that was certainly rich and good, and having got such footing and interest in the Countrey already, by their Success and Victories, and chiefly by their Confederacy with so many of the Natives and People of the Countrey, revolted to them, did almost at first, by a general consent, renounce their Commission, and dependency upon _Velasquez_, and profess’d to act immediately from and for the King of _Spain_. What pretences they had for such a Resolution, seemingly at least irregular, is not so well known. Whatever they were, they proceed in it, and the whole Company (excepting onely some few, who yet went along with the rest) chuse _Cortesius_ anew for their Commander in chief, and appoint likewise by common consent, all other Officers of Justice, both Civil and Military, among themselves: and to give the better colour at Court to their Proceedings, they send _Portocorrero_ and _Monteio_, two of their Principals, into _Spain_, with a rich and noble Present to the Emperor, both to make report of the State of the Countrey, and to procure immediate Commission from his Majesty, to proceed; after which they advance towards Mexico, as hath been said. _Velasquez_, being at _Cuba_, and understanding their Proceedings, labor’d to intercept both their Messengers and Present, but could not; and therefore sent _Pamphilius Narvaez_ with eleven Ships, and about nine hundred or a thousand Men to apprehend _Cortesius_, and oppose his Proceedings. This hapned about the time that the Differences were but newly calm’d betwixt the _Spaniards_ and the People of _Mexico_; and though it oblig’d _Cortesius_ to leave the City in a wavering and unsetled condition, yet he took such order, that _Muteczuma_ still remain’d under the Guard of the _Spaniards_ as before, assisted with thousands of their Friends of _Tlascalla_, and he himself taking the rest, and some few _Spaniards_ along with him, with undaunted courage and resolution marches against _Narvaez_: and such was his good fortune, that not onely _Narvaez_ became his Prisoner without much blood-shed, but likewise all his Men joyn’d with him in his Design, through the favour of the Chancery or supream Court of _St. Domingo_, and by the procurement of the Licentiat _Vasquez de Ayllon_, a Judge of it, who was sent with _Narvaez_ to accommodate the Differences. With this Recruit _Cortesius_ marches back again to _Mexico_; but at his coming finds things in a very bad condition; for the Citizens, gather’d together under the Command of one _Quicuxtemoc_, had recourse to Arms, and for three days and three Nights vex’d the _Spaniards_ with continual Stormings, notwithstanding what-ever Commands they had to the contrary from their imprison’d King, who at last, looking out of a Window, endeavoring to appease them, was hurt with a Stone, of which he soon after died, as they say, who would not have the _Spaniards_ thought to have murder’d him, as the _Mexicans_ say they did, with divers other Noble-men, and some of his Children, the very Night they fled. However it were, not long after his Death, out of extream necessity, and chiefly for want of Victuals, the _Spaniards_ were forc’d to leave the City in the night-time, and with the loss of four hundred and fifty of their Men, who were either slain or taken Prisoners at the passing of a Draw-bridge, the rest making a heavy Retreat to their Friends at _Tlascalla_. There is standing at this day in _Mexico_, upon the place where so many of them were kill’d, a certain Hermitage, which they call _Los Martyres_, or _The Hermitage of the Martyrs_, though but improperly, if upon that occasion, as one of their own Writers confesses, though he alledges no other reason. [Sidenote: _Mexico_ taken by the _Spaniards_.] This Retreat of the _Spaniards_ out of _Mexico_ hapned to be upon the tenth of _July_ after mid-night, in the Year 1520. which the _Spaniards_ at _Mexico_ call _The Doleful Night_. Nevertheless the undaunted _Cortesius_ being got, though with much difficulty and trouble, by reason of the pursuit of the _Mexicans_ for a good part of the Way, to his sure Friends of _Tlascalla_, neither lost his Courage, nor gave over his Resolution of yet gaining _Mexico_, especially the way being now laid open, and sufficient occasion given by the Death of _Muteczuma_, and the provocations of the _Mexicans_ themselves, to make himself absolute and sole Lord of the Place: wherefore having sent for, and procur’d a competent Supply of fresh Soldiers from _Santo Domingo_, or _Hispaniola_, _Almeria_, _Cuba_, and other places, being in all nine hundred Foot, eight hundred Horse, and seventeen Pieces of Ordnance; he joyns himself with the Auxiliary Forces of _Tlascalla_, which were no less than a hundred thousand Men, Arm’d with Bowes and Arrows: and with this Army marches again towards _Mexico_, and Besieges it both by Land and Water, _viz._ with the help of thirteen _Brigantines_ or _Galliots_, which he had built upon the Lake, and six thousand _Canoos_, or little Boats, which his Friends and Confederates had procur’d him. By which means, and by his Army on Land, in a short time he cut off all Provision from the City, and after a Siege of full three Months or more, and a most stout and obstinate resistance made by the People within, in which they are said to have lost above a hundred thousand Men, beside those which perish’d by Famine, Sickness, or otherwise, he took it by Storm upon _Tuesday_ the thirteenth of _August 1521._ Sackt it first, and then burnt it to the Ground; yet afterwards he caus’d it to be Re-built again, far more Beautiful than at first it was; as in due place we shall further see. They speak not of above fifty _Spaniards_ slain during the whole Siege, six Horses, and not many _Tlascaltecans_. [Sidenote: _Cortez_ advanc’d to Honors.] In this manner, and with so little Charges to the Conqueror, there fell to the Crown of _Spain_ the richest and goodliest Kingdom (one of them) of the whole World, _viz._ the Kingdom of _Mexico_, which the Conquerors presently nam’d _New Spain_; and in reference to which name, the _Catholick King_ hath ever since stil’d himself in the plural number _Hispaniarum Rex_, or _King of both Spains_; and all by the Valor, Prudence, admirable Resolution, and happy Conduct of _Cortez_; who was at first but a private Adventurer in the _American_ Plantations and Discoveries, though otherwise a Gentleman of a good Family in _Spain_, born at _Medellin_ in the Country of _Estramedura_. The Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth, who was also then King of _Spain_, for his great Services, endow’d him deservedly with many great and rich Territories in the Provinces of _Tlascalla_, _Mechoacan_, and other parts thereabouts, made him Marquess of the Valley, _viz._ of _Guaxata_, (which is his chief Title) a rich and flourishing Province of that Countrey, Captain General, or Commander in Chief, of all the Military Forces of _New-Spain_, and General Discoverer of all the Maritime parts and Coasts of _America_ towards the South-Sea, assigning him in propriety the twelfth part of whatsoever should be discover’d, to him and his Heirs for ever; but deny’d him the Government of _Mexico_ out of reason of State, though ’tis said, he much desir’d it. [Sidenote: The grand Haven _Acapulco_.] Among the famous Havens which lie along the South Sea, and Northern Ocean the chiefest is _Acapulco_ before-mention’d, whither all Merchandize is sent to be transported to _China_, which is above two thousand Leagues distant from thence; in which Voyage they generally spend fourteen Months; four Sail, each of eight hundred Tun, appointed for this Trade; generally two of them set Sail to _China_ in _March_, and returning in Summer, have no sooner drop’d their Anchors, but the other two set out from _Acapulco_, from whence the way by Land to _Mexico_, is seventy two Leagues over steep Mountains, dangerous Rocks, and several Rivers; the chiefest whereof are, first, _Del Papagayo_, or _De las Balsas_, which runs exceeding strong, which the _Indians_ cross on bundles of Canes ty’d upon _Callabashes_: Next _San Francisco_, which though the biggest, yet hath many shallow places to wade over. The _Mustichoes_ are no small Plagues to those that travel this way, for their Poysonous Stings are the occasions of many Ulcerated Wounds, and oft-times Death it self. In this way lies also the Countrey _del Valle_, from which _Ferdinand Cortesius_ receiv’d the Title of Earl. [Illustration: PORTUS ACAPULCO] The Mouth of the Haven _Acapulco_ gapes a full League North and South, and within exceeding large, hath a nook call’d _Boca Grande_, where the Ships Ride safe at an Anchor: More Easterly appears a Land Inlet, (by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Puerto del Marques_) secur’d against all Winds; near which is the City of _San Diego_, to which belongs a Fort, with six Bulwarks, lying on a Promontory; the main of the City is one large Street, consisting of fair and stately Houses, and leading directly to the Haven; the Church which is of an oblong square, hath a high Steeple in the middle. [Sidenote: _Spilbergen_’s Expedition.] A _Dutch_ Admiral, one _Joris Spilbergen_, after he had done the _Spaniards_ all the mischief he could along the South Sea, ran with five Sail under the Fort _Acapulco_, which fir’d ten Guns at him; whereupon, the _Dutch_ Admiral Manning a Boat, with a white Flag, they agreed upon a Cessation, and the _Spaniards_ went aboard of the Admiral, to whom _Pedro Alvares_, and _Francisco Menendus_, having been a considerable time in _Holland_, and speaking the Language of that Countrey very perfect, promis’d that all his Demands should be satisfi’d; yet _Spilbergen_ was suspicious that the _Spaniards_ had a design upon him, wherefore he came and lay close under the Castle with his five Sail, and made ready his Guns: But this suspicion was soon clear’d, when _Alvares_ and _Menendus_ proffer’d to stay as Hostages, till the Governor of the Town sent the Admiral thirty Oxen, fifty Sheep, some hundreds of Poultry, Coals, Oranges, Cittrons, and the like fresh Provisions; as also Wood and Water; during which time, the Prisoners being set at liberty, several Persons of Quality came to visit the Admiral, amongst whom was Captain _Castilio_, one that had serv’d twenty years in the _Low-Countrey_ Wars; and _Melchior Hernando_, Nephew to the Vice-Roy of _New-Spain_, who desirous to see the Ships that durst set twice upon _Rodrigo de Mendose_, Admiral of the King of _Spain_’s mighty Fleet, stood amaz’d that such little Frigats durst Ingage with so many great _Spanish_ Ships; and carry’d the Admiral’s Son to the Governor of the City, call’d _Georgius Perro_, who civilly entertain’d him: Eight days _Spilbergen_ spent here at _Acapulco_, admiring the courteous Entertainment of the _Spaniards_, and the more, because that having News but eight Moneths before of the _Dutch_ Fleet setting out, they had in that short time made all things ready for resistance, the Fort having seventeen Brass Guns, and four hundred Soldiers, besides many Noblemen and Reformades, whereas at other times there us’d not to be above forty Men, and four Guns in the same. SECT. II. Mechoacan. [Sidenote: Bounds and Description of _Mechoacan_.] The next Province of _New Spain_ is the Bishoprick of _Mechoacan_, which hath on the North-East, _Panuco_; on the East, _Mexicana_, properly so call’d; on the South part, _Tlascalla_; on the West, the Main Ocean, or _Mare del Zur_; and last of all, more directly Northward, _Xalisco_, which is a Province of _New Gallicia_: The Name signifieth in the _American_ Language, as much as _A Fish Countrey_; and so it is, having many fair Lakes and Rivers in it, abundantly well stor’d with Fish. The Countrey so exceedingly pleasant and healthful, that ’tis usual for sick Persons of other Provinces to come hither to recover their health, only by the benefit of a good Air. The Soil so abundantly fertile of all sorts of Grain, that of four measures of Seed, it hath been often observ’d, they have reap’d the next Harvest, more than so many hundred measures of the same Grain. Very well Wooded; and by reason of its many Rivers and fresh Springs, equally rich in good Pasture: and besides great plenty of Medicinal Herbs and Plants, it affordeth good store of Amber nigh the Sea Coasts, Mulberry-trees, and consequently Silks; much Honey, Wax, and divers other Commodities, both for necessity and pleasure. The People of the Countrey are generally tall, of a strong active Body, and a good Wit, especially in comparison of other Natives; not unskilful in divers curious Manufactures, the most excellent Feather-Pictures, afore-mention’d, being said to be found in this Province. They seem more generally inclin’d to the Humors and Customs of the _Spaniards_, than any other _Americans_; and receiv’d the Preaching of _Christian Religion_, when time was, with much willingness; so that the Countrey is now entirely _Christian_, and divided into several Parishes. [Sidenote: Languages belonging to the _Mechoacans_.] The Languages which are spoken in _Mechoacan_ are several, as the _Otomian_, _Chihcimian_, and the _Mexicans_, which is common through all _New Spain_, and the _Tarascan_, a neat and brief Language, which properly belongs to this Countrey. [Sidenote: Tygers.] The Lions and Wilde Dogs of this Countrey devour great numbers of Cattel yearly, yet the greatest mischiefs happen from the Tygers, which often fetch People out of their Houses, notwithstanding the Doors are lock’d, for they break in thorow the Walls and Roofs, with much eagerness and strength: Of the greatness whereof, _Jacob Bontius_ tells us this story, That the Governor _Peter Carpentier_ set a Trap without the Walls of _Batavia_, of great Timber, Pleited with Iron, Baiting it with a Goat; which taking effect, the Tyger that was caught therein, impatient of such close Imprisonment, rent the Timber, and getting out, left the Goat untouch’d. _Hugo Linschot_ relates, That the Tygers in the _West-Indies_ hurt no _Spaniards_, exercising their cruelty onely on _Indians_; and that finding a _Black_ and a _White_ Man sleeping together, they devour the _Black_ and not the _White_: How far these assertions deserve to be credited, may appear by an evident contradiction of the first, for it is well known, many _Spaniards_ in the _West-Indies_ have been eaten by the Tygers. General _Fedreman_ marching in this Countrey at the Head of his Army, was assaulted by a Tyger, which in despight of them all killing a _Spaniard_, and three _Indians_, escap’d from them; no Trees serve for a refuge against their fury, for they climb up to the top thereof, and fetch down their Prey; their Claws are so exceeding Venomous, that whoever is scratch’d with the same, is never to be cur’d; there is no Beast but they will venture upon, wherefore they lie in the Bushes, from whence they rush out upon them; but this disadvantage they have, that most other Beasts are too nimble Footed for them, for they are a very heavy Creature, whatever hath been deliver’d by the Ancients concerning the Tygers swiftness. As to the difference which they make in Humane Flesh, it is thus far true: That they find more sweetness in Womens Breasts than other parts, and chose a _Black_ Man before a _White_: Concerning the first, _France_ gives a sufficient testimony, when two Tygers, in the time of King _Lewis_ the Twelfth, breaking loose, left a great number of Women lying Breastless in the Road. The second is confirm’d by _John Johnston_’s Relation of a strange accident that happen’d in _Bengale_, _viz._ A _Moor_ dreaming that a Tyger fetch’d him out of the Ship, hid himself the next Night between Decks, of which the Master asking the reason, was inform’d concerning his Dream, which prov’d prophetick, for about Mid-night a Tyger leapt into the Ship, and devouring the _Moor_, went away without touching any one of the _Hollanders_, of which there were thirty: But a Sea-man walking on the shore escap’d more wonderfully, for a Tyger setting upon him behind, and a Crocodile before, he leaping from betwixt them, discover’d to the Tyger the Crocodile, to whom the Tyger directly running, and ingaging with the Crocodile, spar’d the Sea-mans life: Notwithstanding the cruelty and mischief of these Tygers, the _Indians_ are led by their sottish Superstition to worship them; because, as they say, the Devil often appears to them in that shape. [Sidenote: Squerrils.] Besides the Tygers, the Inhabitants of _Mechaocan_ are exceedingly molested with Squerrils, which not only carry much Fruit into their Holes, but also under-mine the Houses, so that they often sink or fall on one side, the mischief being the worse, because they increase daily. Most of them bear four young at a time, which on the third day run about for Prey, and can scarce be taken, because of their exceeding swiftness, leaping a great distance from one Tree to another; their Tails serve them on divers occasions; for leaping they use it like a Wing, and at their crossing over a River, for a Sail; in tempestuous Weather, they stop their holes therewith, to keep out the Wind. [Sidenote: Several kinds of them.] There are six several sorts of these Squerrils; the first call’d _Tlilic_, cover themselves with their Tails; the second _Quapatchli_, is as big again, and can never be made tame; the third _Techallotl_, with a bald Tail and great Eyes; the fourth _Talmototly_, hath a thick Head, and a Tail full of black and white streaks; the fifth _Quimitchpatlan_, hath a little Head and long Legs, and leaping from one Tree to another, seems to flie; the last sort call’d _Yztactechalotl_, is whitish. [Sidenote: Foxes.] The Foxes do also great mischief here, their Urine smells so horribly, that forty days after, none are able to abide near the place where they have urin’d, and on whatsoever Stuff or Cloth a drop thereof chanceth to light, the stink can never be wash’d away. [Sidenote: The Bird _Auras_.] Here breeds also a sort of Birds, call’d _Auras_, which are not unlike Moore-Hens; they flie exceeding high in the Air, feed on nought but stinking Carrion, which they scent at a great distance; they have a hairy Head and Neck, and ugly Face: Some of the Fowls of this Countrey stay here all the year long, others go away, and return at certain times. [Sidenote: Ingenuity of the Natives.] The Natives, since the _Spaniards_ coming thither, have gotten their Habits and Language, learn’d all sorts of Trades; their Tables, Chests, and Cupboards made of _Brasile_-Wood, are no way inferior to the best that are made in _Europe_. Painting is also in great esteem amongst them: They make handsom Clothes, Shooes, and strange Copper Locks. They have a peculiar Art in Tilling their Ground: They teach the _Spanish_ Dogs several tricks, but not feeding them well, they cause them to run from them, and turn wilde, whence they are call’d _Cimarrones_, because they do much hurt to the Cattel. The Inhabitants, when a Feaver or Ague is upon them at the highest, leap into cold Water: against other Sicknesses they use Herbs, whose soveraign Power Experience hath long since taught them. Since the _Spaniards_ made _Mechoacan_ a Bishoprick, they have built ninety four Schools, fifty Churches, several Hospitals and Cloysters, inhabited by _Franciscan_ and _Augustin_ Monks. There are said to be in this Bishoprick a hundred and fifty Towns or Burroughs (besides many scatter’d Villages) most of which have Free-Schools erected in them, for the Training up of Youth in the _Christian_ Religion, good Literature and Arts; and few of them without an Hospital for the Sick: of which Towns the principal are as followeth: [Sidenote: Principal Towns.] 1. _Zinzoutza_, the Seat of the ancient Kings of _Mechoacan_. 2. _Pascuar_, a City forty seven Leagues distant from _Mexico_, once a Bishop’s See. 3. _Valladolid_, the Metropolis or chief City of the Province, since the Episcopal Chair was remov’d from _Pascuar_ thither. It lieth upon a great Lake, equal almost for bigness to that of _Mexico_, and is about seven Leagues distant from _Pascuar_, towards the East. 4. _St. Michaels_, a good Town, forty Leagues Westward of _Mexico_, and in the Way to the _Zacatecas_, but lying in a Road that is somewhat dangerous, being not a little infested with Salvages on both sides of it. 5. _St. Philips._ 6. _La Conception de Salaya_, seventeen Leagues distant from _Valladolid_, and a convenient Stage for Travellers, being indeed, with the two last mention’d, built chiefly for the defence and securing of the Countrey against the Salvages. 7. _Guaxanata_, a Town on the Borders of _Panuco_, where there are very rich Mynes of Silver. 8. _Leon_, another Town likewise of very rich Mynes, twenty four Leagues distant from _Valladolid_, and threescore from _Mexico_. 9. _Zamorra._ 10. _Villa de los Lagos_, and others. Towards the Sea there is 1. _Acatlan_, but two Miles distant from the Sea-Coast, and a small Town, yet by reason of a safe and very good Harbor which it hath for Shipping, a Place of no little Trading. 2. _Natividad_, another well known and convenient Haven upon _Mare del Zur_, pertaining to this Province, and from whence they usually set Sail for the _Philippine_ Islands. 3. _St. Jago de buena Speranza_, so call’d by the _Spaniards_, perhaps from the abundance of good Pearls they found upon this Coast. 4. _Colyma._ 5. _Zacatula_, and some others. This Province, as we said, was at first a distinct Kingdom of it self, yet subordinate and Tributary to that of _Mexico_; the King whereof nam’d _Tamgaiva_, or _Bimbicha_, (as _Laet_ reporteth) at the first coming of the _Spaniards_ thither, after the Conquest of _Mexico_, voluntarily submitted himself to them, and was Baptiz’d. Nevertheless afterwards, upon a pretence of I know not what Treason intended by him against them, and which the _Spanish_ Writers themselves professedly think to have been feigned, by command of _Nunnez de Gusman_, President of the _Chancery_ of _Mexico_, he was most inhumanely burnt alive, and his Kingdom seiz’d upon by the _Spaniards_. SECT. III. Tlascalla. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Tlascalla_.] The Bishoprick of _Tlascalla_, formerly call’d _Tlascalteca_, _Tlaxcala_, and _Tlascalan_, is a Province of _New Spain_, which extendeth it self entirely from one Sea to another, _viz._ from the _Atlantick_ to _Mare del Zur_, with which it is bounded on the East and West Parts, lying otherwise, and for the most part betwixt the Provinces of _Mexicana_, last spoken of, and that of _Guaxata_, which followeth, containing in length from one Sea to the other, not much less than an hundred Leagues, and in some places fourscore in breadth; but towards the South Sea growing much narrower. It is a Countrey exceedingly plentiful both in Corn and Cattel, full of rich Pasturage, and so plentifully stor’d with _Maiz_, Wheat, and other Grain, that it is accounted as it were the Granary of _America_; besides Deer, all manner of Venison, and great store of Fowl. There is likewise Copperess, Allom, Silver-Mynes, _Manna_, _Anime_, and Liquid Amber, with a sweet smelling Gum which drops out of a Tree. The Rivers feed no Fish, because they fall with exceeding force from the Mountains; onely near _Topoyanco_, is a deep Lake of fresh Water, inhabited round about by _Indians_, enjoying the pleasure and profit of the many _Cumbeba_-Trees, which yield _Cochinele_, producing yearly above two hundred thousand Duckets worth of that Commodity. In this Lake swim black Hedge-hogs, whose Flesh is good and wholsom to eat. [Sidenote: The ancient State of the _Tlascallans_.] The People of this Countrey, when the _Spaniards_ came first amongst them, liv’d in the form of a Common-wealth, or Free-State, refusing to be subject to the King of _Mexico_, with whom they had almost continual War; and upon that account, as hath been said, assisted _Cortesius_ in the Conquest of the Kingdom, without whose help ’tis most certain he had never been able to do any thing. They enjoy therefore many special Priviledges and Immunities more than other _Americans_ do. They pay no Tribute, but onely a handful of Wheat yearly for every Person, by way of acknowledgment, otherwise living, under the Protection of the _Spaniards_, wholly in the Form of their ancient Government. In former times they were great Man-eaters, and not onely eat the Flesh of their Enemies, but also of one another, insomuch that Man’s-flesh hung in publick to be sold. [Sidenote: River _Zahuatl_.] The River _Zahuatl_, which rushes out of the Mountain _Xicoleucalt_, oftentimes overflows all the Countrey near it, and washes away divers Houses. _Zahuatl_ signifies _Scabby Water_, because all those, especially Children, that wash in the same, are sure to be Scabby. On its Banks the _Spaniards_ have built many Houses, the fashion whereof is now also imitated by the _Indians_ of this Province, who formerly built quite after another manner; for they made low Houses of Earth, Wood and Stone, with large and strange Chambers; some a Stones-cast one from another, others close together, had narrow crooked Streets that ran betwixt them. [Sidenote: _Tlascallans_ Language.] In this Province are two sorts of Languages spoken, _viz._ the _Mexican_, and that of the _Ottomons_, who formerly deserting _Mexico_, chose the _Tlascallans_ for their Protectors: They are a toilsom and painful People. To the Northward of _Tlascalla_ are Mountains, which all the year long, except three Moneths, are cover’d with Mist; and the Woods on the tops of them are a great shelter to Lyons, Tygers, Wolves, and wild Dogs, call’d _Adives_, and other wild Beasts, which do much hurt to the small Cattel. Here are also many Serpents and Adders. The whole Province is said to contain two hundred good Towns and Burroughs, and more than one thousand Villages, all of them exceedingly populous, and suppos’d to contain in the whole above a Million and half of Natives, besides _Spaniards_, who have some few Colonies in the Countrey for securing of it. [Sidenote: Towns and Villages.] The chief Towns of the Province are 1. _Tlascalla_ it self, which denominates the whole Countrey as the Metropolis, and where the Bishop’s See was at first, till in the Year 1550. it was remov’d to _Puebla de los Angelos_. It is a fair Town, and commodiously seated in the midst of a large and fertile Champain of threescore Miles in compass. It consisteth of four large and beautiful Streets or Quarters, and in the midst of them where they all meet, hath a _Piazza_, or Market-place, equal to that of _Mexico_, and able to receive twenty or thirty thousand Persons conveniently, to Buy and Sell in it; and whose Shambles seldom shew less than fifteen thousand Sheep, four thousand Oxen, and two thousand Hogs. 2. _Puebla de los Angelos_, or _The City of Angels_, a Town built by _Sebastian Ramirez_, a Church-man, and he that was the first President, or chief Governor of _Mexico_, under the Crown of _Castile_. It was built in the Year 1531. almost in the Road-way from _Vera Crux_ to _Mexico_, and seated in a very delicate and fertile Countrey, and of a good Air. It is a Bishop’s See, and valu’d at twenty thousand _Ducats_ of yearly Rent, the City it self suppos’d to contain about fifteen hundred Families; where there is abundance of excellent Cloth made, and for fineness not yielding to the best of _Spain_. Its chief Edifices are, the Cathedral and four stately Cloysters, belonging to the _Dominicans_, _Franciscans_, _Augustines_, and _Capuchins_; as also a Free-School for five hundred _Indian_ Children, endow’d by _Ramirez_ with a yearly Revenue. 3. _Zempoallan_, seated upon a River of the same Name. 4. _Napalaca_, in the Valley _Ocumba_, ows its original to an _Indian_ call’d _Juan_, who at first had onely one House, and a Herd of Hogs there, till upon his invitation, all the neighboring People came from the tops of the Hills; insomuch, that in a short time, the place was Peopled by thousands of Families. 5. _Guaxacingo_, all hitherto great and ancient Towns of the Natives. 6. _Segura de la Frontera_, a _Spanish_ Town, built by _Cortez_ presently upon the Conquest of _Mexico_, for the securing of the Confines, as the Name importeth. 7. _Vera Crux_, a Town built by _Cortez_ and his Companions, at their first Landing, and where afterwards, by a Stratagem, and out of a resolution either to Conquer or Die in the Countrey, he caus’d all his Ships to be burnt, that his Soldiers might not so much as think of returning back from whence they came. The Town was at first built five or six Leagues up within Land; but the place being found not to be so healthful, the Inhabitants in a short time deserted it, and seated themselves upon a Bay of the Sea, right over against _St. John D’ Ullua_. 8. _Medellin_, another _Spanish_ Town, built likewise by _Cortez_, in memory of his own Birth-place, which was _Medellin_, a small Town of _Estramadura_, a Province of _Spain_, but was afterwards destroy’d by some _Spanish_ Commanders, out of malice to _Cortez_. Lastly, _St. John D’ Ullua_, a noted, and the most usual Port to all this Province, and likewise to the City of _Mexico_ it self, from the North Sea: but of difficult entrance, especially to such as are not well acquainted with the Passage, or want Guides, by reason of certain Rocks and Quicksands, wherewith the Mouth of the Haven is said to be bar’d; but within, the station is more safe. It hath likewise two strong Bulwarks or Forts rais’d, on either side of the Entrance one, to defend the Passage; besides a strong Castle, built since Captain _John Hawkins_ surpris’d twelve Ships richly Laden within the Haven, and thirteen others that arriv’d with a new Vice-Roy from _Spain_, valu’d at near sixty Tun of Gold, of which he might easily have made Prize, had he not trusted to the Vice-Roys Promise, to give him all satisfaction he should require, by which being deceiv’d, he lost all his Fleet but two Ships. [Sidenote: Great increase of Crocodiles.] Between _Tlascala_ and _Los Angelos_ are the Fountains, out of which the River hath its Original, which gliding by _Machaocan_ and _Zacatula_, falls into the South Sea: This River is so exceeding full of Crocodiles, that they have made several places which formerly were Inhabited on its Banks, utterly desolate; for the Females laying generally Eggs as big as those of a Goose, increase prodigiously; and were it not that the _Indian_ Mice, call’d _Ichneumones_, destroy’d them, they would grow still to greater numbers: But this Animal creeping in at the Crocodiles Mouth, eats his way out of the Belly again; Water-Serpents, Hawks, _Buffeloes_, and especially Tygers, are also their mortal Enemies, for they throwing the Crocodiles on their Backs, rend open their Bellies: They are more desirous of Mans flesh here than in any other place, because the River of _Tlascala_ hath but small store of Fish; in the day time they lie cover’d in the Mud, from whence they rush forth, and set upon those that happen to pass by them; they pursue the _Canoos_ in the Water, and strike down the Rowers with their Tails. [Sidenote: Burning Mountain _Popatepeck_.] Eight Leagues beyond _Tlascala_, appears the Mountain _Popatepeck_, which for ten years ceas’d smoaking, till _Anno 1540._ it broke forth in such a manner, that the Countrey all about was terrifi’d therewith; for it vomited not onely a black Smoak, but also horrible Flames, which sometimes being blow’d downward, burnt the Corn in the Fields, and the Ashes thereof flying as far as _Guaxocingo_ and _Chulula_, burnt a great deal of the Town to the Ground; every one endeavor’d by flight to secure themselves, with intention never to return thither again; but the Flame and Smoak abating, Captain _Diego de Ordas_ went up to view the place, whence the Fire was cast forth; which curiosity and presumption of his, had like to have cost him his Life, for the sulphury Smoak breaking forth on a sudden, had almost stifled him. [Sidenote: Rivers of _Mexicana_.] Moreover, the Bishoprick of _Tlascala_, is on the North Coast wash’d by the River _Papoloava_, since call’d _Alvarado_, from a _Spanish_ Commander, who first Steer’d his Course thither: The next Stream nam’d _Banderas_, is so call’d, because the Natives held white Clothes on Poles, to invite the _Spaniards_ ashore. The third is _Almeria_, on which, _Cortesius_, a year after the taking of _Mexico_, built the Town _Medellin_, as aforemention’d. Along the _Tlascallan_ shore, wash’d by the Northern Ocean, lie the Isles _Blanca_, _Verde_, and _Sacrificios_: The first receiv’d its denomination from _White Land_, the other from _Green Trees_; and the third, because _Joan de Greyalve_, who first Discover’d _New Spain_, Landing on this Island, found a Bloody Altar there, with Sacrific’d People with open’d Brests, chopt off Arms and Legs. The River _Almeria_ falling into the Ocean opposite to the _Sacrificios_, the _Spanish_ Ships came often to an Anchor there; but in these latter times, they have forsaken the same, because the Northern Winds us’d to blow very hard against the shore, and spoil’d many Vessels: But _Henry Hawks_ gives this reason, That a dreadful apparition of Spirits frighted the _Spaniards_ from thence. [Sidenote: The Province _Tepeaca_.] In the Bishoprick _Tlascala_, is also compriz’d the Province _Tepeaca_, whose Metropolis was built by _Cortez_, when with great Loss he was sent from _Almeria_. The Soil thereabouts is barren and stony; the Water which they have in the City, is brought in Pipes from a River which flows out of the Mountains into the Market place. The plain Countrey hath many good Pastures. The Inhabitants thereof speak four sorts of Languages; of which, the commonest is the _Mexican_; others use the _Popolucan_ or _Otoman_ Tongues. [Sidenote: _Alyoxuan_.] The Village _Alyoxucan_ appears afar off on a high Mountain, on whose top is a Lake of a hundred and fifty Fathom in circumference; the Water whereof is very cold, and of a bluish Colour, and neither Ebbs nor Flows, to which the Villagers climb along a narrow Path. Not far from thence, in the Plain, are two other very deep Lakes: The first call’d _Tlacae_, is a League in circumference, and breeds delicate white Fish, not above a Fingers length: The second nam’d _Alchichican_, about the same bigness, which in stormy Weather is very turbulent. [Sidenote: Strange sort of Bird.] Amongst the Fowls of this Countrey, the most noted is a little Summer Bird, with a long crooked Tail, speckled Feathers; feeds on nothing but Flowers and the Dew; about Harvest time, when the Rain ceases, it hangs fast with its Bill on a Tree, and as soon as the first Rain falls, it revives again. In this Countrey _Tepeaca_ are five Villages, in each of which is a _Franciscan_ Cloyster and convenient Hospital. In this Countrey they gather the Water in the time of the Rainy Moneths, in a digg’d Pool, which every Morning produces little Toads with long Tails, which in few days fall off; but these little ones growing to be great, make a most dreadful noise in the Night: From _October_ till _March_, not one drop of Rain falls in this Countrey; during which time, the Northern Winds make a dry and wholsome Air, yet oftentimes a tempestuous Sea, to the loss of many Ships. Farther up into the Countrey, between _Vera Crux_ and _Los Angelos_, lies the Village _Rinconanda_; and also _Xalapa_ and _Perota_ built of Straw Houses in the middle of a Wood of Cedar and Pine-Trees, inhabited by the _Spaniards_, for the accommodating of Travellers: To which purpose there are likewise Inns built near the Spring _Fuente de Otzumba_, which gushes out of a high Rock. Not far from hence is the Populous Village _Chetula_, where a small number of _Spaniards_ dwell amongst thousands of _Indians_, who chiefly make use of Mules to carry their Loads. SECT. IV. Guaxata. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Guaxata_.] Between _Los Angelos_ and _Guatemala_, lies the Bishoprick of _Antiquera_ or _Guaxata_ largely taken; it hath on the North, the Bay of _Mexico_; on the South, _Mare del Zur_; on the East, _Jucatan_ and _Chiapa_ which is one of the Provinces of _Guatimala_; on the West, _Tlascalla_. [Sidenote: Division.] The Countrey extendeth it self upon the South Sea about an hundred Leagues in length, but from the Sea to the Borders of _Tlascalla_, one hundred and twenty; Eastward not above half so much; having a good Air, and a Soil no less fruitful, especially in Mulberry-Trees, and abundance of Silks, which the Countrey affordeth, more than any other Province of _America_ besides; nor is it less rich in Mines of Gold and Silver, there being scarce a River in the whole Countrey, but the Sands of it are said to be Tinctur’d more or less with that yellow Metal; also Crystal and Copperess. It yieldeth likewise great plenty of _Cassia_ and _Cochinele_, two rich Commodities; and the People generally, if they would take pains, might be the wealthiest, ’tis thought, of any other in _America_: But whether it be through any voluntary contempt of Riches, or through any natural sloathfulness, as yet they seem to Pine in the midst of plenty, living, for the most part of them, little better than from Hand to Mouth; nevertheless, exceeding liberal of what they have, especially to such as bear the Habit of Religion, and attend the service of their Souls; maintaining in a plentiful and good manner, as ’tis said, no less than one hundred and twenty Convents of Religious Men, of several Orders, in this onely Province; besides Hospitals, Schools for the training up of Youth, and other places of publick Charity; it is said also to have three hundred and fifty Villages, and near as many brave Countrey Houses. It is subdivided into many particular Provinces; which, because they are many and but small, in comparison of some other, we may call _Wapentakes_, or Hundreds, rather than Provinces: The principal whereof are these that follow, _viz._ 1. _Misteca._ 2. _Tutepecque._ 3. _Zapoteca._ 4. _Guazacoalco._ 5. _Gueztaxatla_: and 6. the _Valley of Guaxata_, from whence _Cortez_, after the Conquest of _Mexico_, had his Title given him by the Emperor, _Marquess of the Valley_. It is the richest and most pleasant part of the whole Province, extended in a continu’d Tract together, full sixteen Leagues or more, lying about fourscore Southward of _Mexico_, and wanting neither Mines of Gold and Silver, nor any other of the prime and best Commodities of the _New-World_. [Sidenote: Languages.] In this Countrey they speak thirteen sorts of Languages, of which the _Mexican_ is most us’d. [Sidenote: Poisonous Herb.] Amongst the Plants which grow here, is an exceeding Poysonous Herb, which kills those whosoe’re pluck it, though a long time after, that is to say, if it be of a Years growth, it kills not before the Years end; if a Moneth old, at the Moneths end; if a Day, on the same. This Countrey formerly suffer’d also many inconveniencies by Earthquakes, but of late they are somewhat abated, which the _Spaniards_ ascribe to _Martialis_, Protector of the Cathedral at _Antequera_. _Misteca_ is divided into _Alta_ and _Baxa_, both of which have Rivers and Brooks that afford Gold, whither the _Indian_ Women taking Provisions, go for several days, and gather Gold in Troughs, which they exchange at the _Spanish_ Markets for Provisions. [Sidenote: Strange Cave.] Not far from the Village _Cuertlavaca_, lies a high Mountain, remarkable for a strange Cave, whose Entrance is very narrow, at the end whereof appears a square Place of fifty Foot; upon one side whereof stand Pits with Steps; near which begins a crooked Way of a League long; at the end of which is a spacious Place with a Fountain of good Water; from the Foot of which flows a small Brook: But because none have made any farther discovery of this Cave, the other parts of it remain yet unknown. On the top of _St. Antonio_, the _Indians_ live with their Families in Caves between the Rocks. Not far from hence appear two Mountains, whose tops, though they lie at a great distance from one another, at the bottom they are so near, that a Man may step from one to the other. The six Rocks _Pennoles_, formerly Garrison’d by the Kings of _Mexico_, have Gold, Lead-Mynes, and a Root which is us’d in stead of Soap. In the Village _Totomachiapo_, is a Cave of half a Mile long, at the end whereof the Water prevents a farther discovery. The Rocky Countrey _Zapotecas_ formerly bred very salvage Inhabitants, Mantled in Furrs, but now Civiliz’d, clad after the common manner. [Sidenote: _Americans_, whether Extracted from the ten Tribes of _Israel_.] The People spread over _Guaxacualco_, _Yluta_, and _Cueztxatla_, observe Circumcision, according to an ancient Custom; from whence some have in vain sought for a testimony, that these _Americans_ should be originally extracted from the scatter’d Tribes of _Israel_; but the _Tartars_ more immediately, who at last crossing the _Straits_ of _Anian_, furnish’d the desolate Countrey of _America_ with Inhabitants: But this Opinion is without any probability of truth; for it will never follow from their Circumcision, that the _Tartars_, the greatest People on Earth, must owe their original to a few _Israelites_, Prisoners, since that Ceremony was never thought on by them till they embrac’d the _Mahumetan_ Religion. And though they had been Circumcis’d before _Mahomet_’s time, this would be no testimony that they were extracted from the _Israelites_: for how many People embrac’d Circumcision, which were never extracted from _Abraham_’s Seed? It is affirm’d by _Diodorus Siculus_, that the _Cholchians_; by _Philo Judæus_, the _Egyptians_; by _Herodotus_, the _Moors_; by _Strabo_, the _Troglodytes_; by _Cyprian_, the _Phœnicians_ and _Arabians_ Circumcis’d themselves from all Antiquity, which is to this day observ’d by some of them. It also plainly appears by the Prophet _Jeremiah_, that the _Egyptians_, _Edomites_, _Ammonites_, _Moabites_, and _Ishmaelites_, had the same Custom anciently amongst them. [Sidenote: Towns and chief Villages of _Guaxaca_.] The Towns of principal note inhabited by the _Spaniards_ in this Province, are 1. _Antequera_, in the Valley aforesaid, a stately City, and beautifi’d with a fair Cathedral Church, built with Pillars of the finest Marble, of great heighth and bigness. The River which glides by the Walls, springing out of the Ground, runs to the Mountain _Coatlan_. Not far from thence lies the Village _Herrera_, which boasts four hundred _Spanish_ Families, though some say that the greatest part of them are _Indians_, who pay the _Spaniards_ Cotton Cloaks and Nuts for Tribute. 2. _Illephonso de los Zapotecas_, lies on a Mountain belonging to the _Mixes_, anciently a salvage, strong, and long-bearded People, who speak a gross Language, and in former times went naked, onely a white Deer-skin, Tann’d in Man’s Brains, about their Middle. They maintain’d continual War against the _Zapoteca_’s, and could never have been subdu’d by the _Spaniards_, had it not been for their Dogs, which kept them in such awe, that thirty _Spanish_ Soldiers ventur’d to live in _Illephonso_ amongst thirty thousand _Mixes_, who now drive a Trade in Cotton, _Maize_, and Gold. 3. _San Jago de Nexapa_ appears at a great distance on a high Mountain, where also twenty Soldiers with their Dogs were wont to awe the cruel Natives. 4. The last Place, built by _Gonzales de Sandovall_, _Anno 1522._ is _Villa del Espiritu Santo_, Commands fifty _Indian_ Villages, which with great difficulty were brought to submit to the _Spaniards_. The River _Aquivicolco_ affords a convenient Harbor, the Mouth thereof being a hundred and ninety Paces broad. Upon the Southern Ocean is the Haven _Guatulco_, where the Ships that Sail to _Honduras_ and _Peru_ take in their Lading. The Custom-house belonging to this Place was first plunder’d by Sir _Francis Drake_, and nine years after burnt by _Candish_. The River _Ometipu_, which springing out of the Mountain _Cacatepec_, falls into _Tepoanteque_, abounds with divers sorts of good Fish, especially Cra-Fish. There are also reckon’d of the Natives of this Province, no less than fifteen thousand Persons that pay Tribute to the _Spaniards_, besides Women and Children, and also a great number of _Spaniards_. SECT. V. Panuco. [Sidenote: Bounds and Description of _Panuco_.] _Panuco_ is the most Northerly Province of _New Spain_, by some call’d _Guasteca_, bounded on the East with the Gulf of _Mexico_; on the West with _Uxitipa_, a Countrey of _New Gallicia_; on the North with some undiscover’d Countreys of _Florida_, from which it is divided by the _River of Palms_; on the South with _Mechoacan_ and _Mexicana_. It is call’d _Panuco_, from a River of that Name, which turning from the Mountains _Tepecsuan_ in _New Gallicia_, and dividing _New Biscay_ from the Province of _Zacatecas_, passeth through the midst of this Countrey also, and at last empties it self into the Gulf. This Countrey is reckon’d to be about fifty Leagues in length, and not much less in breadth; of a fruitful Soil, having some Mynes of Gold in it, and once very populous till the _Spaniards_, about the Year 1522. dispeopled it by their insatiable cruelty. [Sidenote: Conquest of it difficult.] Before _Ferdinand Cortesius_, _Francis de Garay_ attempted to Conquer this Province, but after much pains to no purpose, he return’d with but a small remnant of those he carried with him; and though _Cortesius_ subdu’d the Countreys _Ayotetextetlatan_ and _Chila_, yet it was not without many considerable Losses; for the Inhabitants being valiant and cruel, not fearing the _Spanish_ Bullets, ran in amongst them, and made great slaughter, and (according to an old Custom in _New Spain_) drank their Blood. [Sidenote: Barbarous Customs of the People.] These People, on their Festival Days call’d _Raeaxipo Veliztli_, which signifies _A Flaying of Slaves_, us’d to pull off the Skins of a certain number of Slaves, with which they walkt about begging Alms from Hut to Hut, and whosoever deny’d them, was sure of a Blow in the Face with the bloody Skin; of which so long as there was but one Lappet remaining, they went a Begging; and whatsoever they got, was employ’d in Uses and Necessaries belonging to their Idolatry. On the foremention’d Days they also us’d other barbarous Customs, amongst which this was one: The Priest challenging the Slave which was to be Offer’d, to Fight for his Life, he had one of his Feet ty’d to a great round Stone, and having a Sword to offend, and a Shield to defend himself, Encountred with the Priest, who was Arm’d after the same manner, whom if he conquer’d, he not onely preferv’d his Life, but gain’d the Name of a valiant Man. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Strange usage of Prisoners.] They also dealt strangely with Persons that were yearly to be Offer’d to their Idols: for after having wash’d them, they put on them the Clothes of the Idol, and gave them the same Name, every one honouring them as a God; were permitted to walk up and down, but guarded by twelve Men, that they might not escape; for then the chiefest of the Guard was to supply the others place: Moreover, they resided in the chiefest Apartments of the Temple, eat of the best, were serv’d like Princes, and attended through the Towns by Persons of the greatest Quality, who led them through the Streets; where they no sooner play’d on a little Pipe, but all People came running to them, fell at their Feet and worship’d them: In the Night they lock’d them up in a Cage, secur’d with Iron Bars, and at the appointed time flay’d them alive. [Sidenote: Towns and Villages.] The chief Towns now remaining, and inhabited by the _Spaniards_, are 1. _St. Lewis de Tampice_, a Colony of _Spaniards_ situate on the Northern Bank of the River _Panuco_, at the very Mouth of it; where it hath a very large Haven, but so barr’d with Sands, that no Ship of any great Burden can enter or abide in it with safety; and yet the River otherwise so deep, that Vessels of five hundred Tun, might Sail up threescore Leagues at least within Land, and thereby visit the rich Mynes of _Zatatecas_ on the one side of it, and of _New Biscay_ on the other, at pleasure, and without fear of much opposition. 2. _St. Stevan del Puerto_, on the South side of the same River, eight Leagues distant from the Sea, or Gulf of _Mexico_, at present the Metropolis or chief Town of the Province, built by _Cortesius_ in the place where stood old _Panuco_, which was likewise the Metropolis, or Head Town of the Natives, before the _Spaniards_ burnt and destroy’d it. 3. _St. Jago de las Valles_, which is a Fronteer Place, and enjoyeth certain special Immunities, and some fair Possessions also for defence of the Countrey against the Salvages. It is twenty five Leagues distant from _St. Stevan del Puerto_, lying in an open or Champain Countrey, and is fenc’d about with a Wall of Earth. [Sidenote: _Miles Philips_ his Voyage.] _Miles Philips_, an _Englishman_, put ashore by Captain _John Hawkins_, in the Bay of _New Spain_, _Anno 1568._, suffer’d great hardship before he came to _Panuco_, from whence returning, he made mention of a City lying along a River of the same denomination, (which is there not above two Bowe shoots-broad,) in a pleasant Countrey, containing two hundred _Spanish_ Families, beside the antient Inhabitants and _Negro_’s, which all drive a great Trade in Salt, which is made in Pans Westward from the River: _Philips_ travelling from _Panuco_ to _Mexico_, saw by the way the Villages _Nohete_, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Santa Maria_, and a Cloyster of white _Monks_: Next he view’d _Mestitlan_, where some grey _Monks_ had a House, and the Town _Puchuen_. [Sidenote: _Chilton_’s Journal.] Another account of this Province is taken from a Journal kept by _John Chilton_, four years after _Philips_’s Voyage; he having a _Spaniard_ for his Convoy, left _Mexico_ to find out _Panuco_; in three days time they reach’d the City _Mestitlan_, where he observ’d, that twelve _Spanish_ Families liv’d amongst thirty thousand _Indians_. The City built on a high Mountain, full of Woods, is surrounded with Villages, through which run many brave Springs; and the Air about them is no less wholsom than the Ground fruitful; the High-ways are shaded with all sorts of Fruit-Trees. The Village _Clanchinoltepec_, four times more Populous than _Mestitlan_, belongs to a _Spanish_ Nobleman, who built a Cloyster there for nine _Augustin_ Monks, of which Order there also reside twelve in the City _Guaxutla_. Moreover, they travel’d over the plain Countrey _Guastecan_, to the Village _Tancuylabo_, inhabited by a tall People, with blue Painted Bodies, and Pleited Hair, hanging down to their Knees, going stark naked, but never without a Bowe and Arrow. They esteem nothing more than Salt, as being the onely Cure against certain Worms that grow between their Lips. From hence they travel’d to _Tampice_, in which Journey they spent nine days; and coming thither, were inform’d, that of forty _Christians_ which dwelt in the same, the _Indians_ had slain twelve, whilst they were gathering of Salt. From hence they came to _Panuco_, then in a manner deserted, because of the _Indians_ oppressing the _Spaniards_, of which, at that time, there were but ten, and one Priest. _Chilton_ falling sick here, resolv’d nevertheless to change that unwholsom Air and barren place for a better; to which purpose, getting a Horse, he took an _Indian_ behind him for his Guide, but loosing his way in a thick Wood, happen’d amongst a Company of wild People, which dwelt in Straw Huts, twenty of them immediately surrounding him, brought him some clear sweet Water to drink, out of a Gilt _Venice_ Glass, which having drunk, two naked Men led him into the high-way; which ended at the Gate of the Wall’d City _Santo Jago de las Valles_, inhabited by twenty five _Spanish_ Families, who inform’d _Chilton_ of the great danger which he had been in, for the People which gave him the Water were Man-eaters, who not long since, had burnt an _Augustine_ Cloyster, built on a Mountain, had taken away, and eat the People, of which they had in all likelyhood gotten the _Venice_ Glass; and had they not observ’d _Chilton_ to be sickly, he had without doubt been eaten by them, and his Skin, with some of his Hair, (that being a great Ornament amongst them) been hung about their middle. During _Chilton_’s stay in _St. Jago_, _Frans de Page_ came thither with forty Soldiers from the Vice-Roy _Henry Manriques_, and took five hundred _Indians_, good Bowe Men out of the Neighboring Villages, _Tanehipa_ and _Tameclipa_, with which he design’d to go to the Silver Mines at _Zacatecas_: _Chilton_ joyning with this Company, came to the great River _De las Palmas_, which separates _New Spain_ from _Florida_, where they spent three days in vain, seeking to find a passage over; wherefore they at last took pieces of Timber, which joyning together, and standing upon, they were Tow’d over by Swimming _Indians_; being gotten on the other side, they March’d over steep Mountains, and thick Wildernesses, and came at last to _Zacatecas_, on whose Silver Mines, the richest in all _America_, work’d above three hundred _Spaniards_ daily. SECT. VI. Tabasco. [Sidenote: Bounds and Description of _Tabasco_.] The last Countrey belonging to _New Spain_ is _Tabasco_, bounded on the North by the Northern Ocean, and on the East with _Jucatan_; and however some account it a distinct Province, yet others make no mention of it, letting it pass for that part of _Jucatan_ which lies about the City _Tabasco_, from which it seems to be denominated: The Ground level and without Mountains, hath many great Woods of Cedar-Trees, _Brasile_, and others. Here are also many good _Indian_ Fruits, as the _Manmeyes_, _Zapotes_, _Aguacates_, and _Guajabos_. For three Moneths they have continually dry Weather, the rest of the year being for the most part rainy; which vicissitude of Moisture and Heat makes the Countrey exceeding fruitful, insomuch that they have three or four Harvests of _Maiz_ in a year. Vines, Figs, Lemmons, Oranges, Rice, Barley, and all sorts of Garden-Herbs grow here also in great plenty. The Pools, Brooks and Lakes, abound likewise with all manner of Fish: and for Sea-Fish, besides the _Tortugas_, and _Yguanras_, the _Manate_, or _Sea-Cow_, is of principal note. [Sidenote: The Fish _Manate_.] This Fish is terrible to behold, having a Head like an Ox, little Eyes, two Feet near the Head in stead of Fins, two round Holes in stead of Ears, round bones like Balls in its Brains, a short Tail, and bristly Skin: The Females have two Dugs, with which they suckle their Young. [Sidenote: Birds.] Peacocks, Pheasants, Parrots, Quales, Hens, Pigeons, with several sorts of Birds altogether unknown to the _Europeans_, are here in great abundance. [Sidenote: Beasts.] The Woods also abound with Tygers and Lyons, which do no little hurt to the Inhabitants, Wild Hogs, Deer, and Rabbets, are likewise here in great plenty; and Turtles of an exceeding bigness: Likewise Apes, Polecats, and Squerrils, which do very much hurt to the Fruit-Trees, especially the _Cacao_. The _Musticho_’s are a great annoyance to the People, and disturb their rest at Night. [Sidenote: Languages of the Natives.] Since the _Spaniards_ have conquer’d _Tabasco_, they have forc’d the Inhabitants to observe their Laws and Customs. They speak three sorts of Languages, amongst which that most us’d, call’d _Chontal_, is copious of Words. The second, _Zoques_, is spoken on the Mountains which divide _Chiapa_ and _Tabasco_. The _Mexican_ Tongue was first brought thither by the Garrisons which _Muteczuma_ plac’d there in the Forts _Zimatlan_ and _Xicalango_, and is the most spoken, in regard it hath not onely its Accents, but is also of great use, partly because it is understood in most places of _America_, and partly because the Priests have made Songs in that Tongue, with which the _Tabascans_ are much delighted. The chief City _Nostra Sennora de la Vittoria_, already mention’d in _Jucatan_, was so call’d by _Ferdinand Cortesius_, from the great Victory which he obtain’d over the Indians when he march’d first towards _Mexico_. Thus far of the Description of the several Parts and Divisions of _New Spain_, differing in Customs and Languages, though most of them have some affinity with the _Mexicans_, who by force of Arms had made a way to the supream Empire. All of them acknowledge a Creator, but have no Name to express the Word _God_. But besides the Creator of the World they have made to themselves Gods of many other Creatures; amongst which are the Sun, Moon, Stars, and the Manes of the Deceased, the care of whose Burial they committed to the Priests, which was sometimes in the Fields, sometimes in their Houses; others carried their dead Bodies to the Mountains, some buried them in Temples; and as they either burnt or buried the Body, so they buried or burnt their Clothes and Riches with them, especially of Persons of Quality, whilst those that accompanied the Corps sung a mournful Song; after which they Feasted. The Heirs of Noble-men that had been at the Funeral put themselves all into Mourning. A Person, after he is dead, is stretch’d out upon the Floor, where he lies till all his Friends come to Present and Complement him, as if living: But at the death of an eminent Person they not onely bring him Presents, but proffer him his Slaves, Steward, Butlers, Dwarfs, and Houshold Priest, (all which a Lord must keep) that they may serve him in the other World. The Priests which perform’d the Funeral Ceremonies, walk’d before the Corps with the Image of the Idol which the Deceased had appropriated to himself, (for every Lord, according to the greatness of his Quality, bore the Name and Apparel of some Idol or another;) other Priests beat on Drums, play’d on Pipes and singing Dirges, perfum’d the Way with Myrrh, whilest the Servants and Relations made a doleful cry; a Herauld also carried the Coat of Arms and Trophies of the Deceased, artificially painted on Cloth; at last they pyl’d sweet Wood about the Corps, which being lighted, and the Body burnt to Ashes, a Priest in a frightful Dress, Vizarded with a gaping Mouth, long Teeth, and fiery Eyes, came on a sudden, and with a long Stick stirr’d the Ashes about, and gathering it in an Urn, buried the same with the fore-mention’d things. [Illustration] The Idols in _New Spain_ are represented in terrible Figures, to which they Offer humane Sacrifices. The Priests, divided into higher or lower Orders, acknowledge a supream Head, which they call _Papas_. Each Idol had a peculiar sort of Priests: Those that serv’d _Viztlipuzli_, obtain’d their Places by Inheritance; but others were chose by the Commonalty, unless they had been bred Priests from their Infancy. [Sidenote: Cloysters dedicated to the ancient _Mexican_ Religion.] The _Mexican_ Cloysters in the time of _Heathenism_ were generally built in the chiefest Temples, in a great _Piazza_, or square Court, where for the most part two Monastical Houses stood one against another, the one inhabited by a Fraternity of Recluses, and the other by a Sisterhood; which last being Maids of twelve or thirteen years of age, call’d _The Penitential Daughters_, swept the Temple, prepar’d Meat for the Idols and Priests, which was plentifully supply’d from the Alms and Offerings that were daily brought in to the Priests, consisting of little Cakes made like Hands and Feet, besides other strange Meats, which being set before the Idols, was soon after taken away again, and eaten up by the Priests: They were under a Governess, who employ’d them in making Embroideries to adorn the Temple; and sometimes rose up with the Priests at Mid-night, and play’d on Pipes, perfum’d the Temple, and scourg’d themselves till the Blood ran down their Backs, besmearing their Faces therewith, and leaving it on a whole year; then going into a large Chamber, where a Cistern stood for that purpose, they wash’d it off again; after which, if they committed the least uncleanness, they were put to a most miserable Death; which was judg’d upon seeing a Rat run through the Nuns Chamber, or a Batt flying by it, or finding any piece of Cloth gnaw’n by a Mouse or Rat; for they suppose that the fore-mention’d Creatures dare not come into a hallow’d place, unless defil’d. In this recluse manner they were onely confin’d to live a year, which being expir’d, they had free leave to Marry. The House opposite to the Nuns in the same square place of the Temple, was inhabited by Youths of eighteen and twenty years of age, whose Heads were shaven like Monks, and pleited Tufts hung from the Crown down to their Backs; they liv’d also mean and chaste, kept the Priests Clothes and Perfuming-Vessels, carried Wood for Offerings, and kept always burning Lamps before _Viztlipuztli_’s Altar. Amongst them were also Boys of a less Age, whose Office was to gather Flowers and Herbs to strow the Temple with, to sharpen the Priests Lances, which they Let themselves Blood with every Night in the Legs, and carry them Water. These Youths, Cloth’d in Nets, fell on their Faces on the Ground when they met with a Woman, and went four and four, or six and six together to beg Alms, and by turns watch’d the fore-mention’d Fire; in the Morning they drew Blood out of their Thighs, with which they anointed their Temples down to their Ears, and when the Blood look’d black, wash’d it off again in a consecrated Bath, which their strict and severe Life endur’d a whole Year. [Sidenote: _Mexican_ Religion abhorr’d by the neighboring People.] The particular Religion of the _Mexicans_, compos’d of cruel slaughters and butcheries of Men, reign’d a long time against the minds of the other _Indians_ that were under their Dominion, every one beginning more to abhor the cruel flaying of living People, and tearing out the Hearts of Men for Offerings; and the rather, because they were forc’d to fetch them out of their Enemies Countrey with the hazard of their own Lives, insomuch that they were ready long before to have embrac’d another Doctrine, if any other Teacher had but appear’d amongst them; which was the chief reason why they so easily receiv’d the _Roman_ Religion: for when _Cortesius_ had conquer’d the City _Mexico_, the _Mechoacan_ Agents entreated him to send them Teachers to prescribe them Laws, according to which they might live, because their Idolatry, which had long oppress’d them, was not to be suffer’d any longer, because of the Cruelties which were requir’d of them in the performance thereof. [Sidenote: Their Processions.] Their Processions were stately, and after this manner: The chiefest Nuns raising a Paste of _Bledoi_-Seed and parched _Maiz_, kneaded it with Honey, of which they made an Idol resembling their Deity _Viztipuztli_, across whose Nose and Forehead they drew a blue Stroke; his Head they adorn’d with a Plume of Feathers, and in the left Hand plac’d a round Box, in the right a crooked Staff like a Serpent, and Wings behind on his Shoulders; at the appointed Feast-day the Nuns meet before Sun-rising, in new white Apparel, with Garlands of _Maiz_ about their Heads and Necks, which hung down below the left Shoulder, their Faces painted with several colours, about their Arms hung Parrots Feathers from their Elbows down to their Hands: Thus adorn’d, they carried the kneaded Idol to a Court, where the Youths that inhabited a Cloyster in the same Temple, fetching the Idols blue Throne, with great Reverence set it down at the lower Step of the Temple, at which the People threw Dust on their Heads; which was no sooner done, but the Boys ran with all speed to the Mountain _Chapultepec_, a League from _Mexico_, whither the Multitude following them in manner of Procession, made all short Prayers and Offerings there; from thence hastening into the Champain Fields _Atlacuavaya_, they perform’d the like Service as before; which done, they went to the Village _Cuyoacan_, a League farther; from whence they came back in all haste with their Idol into _Mexico_: Wherefore this Processioning for its expedition was call’d _Ipaina Viztliputli_. The Idol being brought into the Temple, was by four Cords made fast to his Throne, hoised up to the Cieling with the noise of Drums and Trumpets, whilst the fore-mention’d Youths strow’d the Temple both within and without full of Roses; after which the Nuns gave the Boys the resemblances of Bones made of the same Dough with the Idol, with which they were to cover the Floor of the Chappel; then appear’d the Temple-Priests, with Scarfs about their Bodies, Garlands on their Heads, and Strings with Flowers about their Necks, each going in order according to his quality to the place where the Bones lay; which being Consecrated with Songs and Dances, were religiously worshipp’d for Bones of the Idol; after which six of the Priests went down to the Stone _Quauxicalli_, on which the Prisoners lying upon their Backs, had their Hearts pull’d out; which being finish’d, the Maids and Boys before-mention’d went to meet one another, Dancing to the sound of Pipes, Drums and Songs; which their nearest Relations answering, Danc’d round about them, whither the whole City and Countrey People all about came flocking in great numbers. During this high Feast none, upon great Penalties, durst eat any other Food but the Cakes made of the same Dough of which the Idol was made; neither were they permitted, though Children, to drink till the Afternoon. Lastly, the Priest climb’d up to a Chappel strow’d with Roses, in which the Idol sitting, they disrob’d him, broke his holy Arms and Legs into little pieces, which they distributed amongst the common People, who receiv’d them with great Reverence, and with tears in their Eyes, imagining they eat the Body of their God; for which honour every one paid a tenth part of the Charge which had been spent in this high Feast. Then a Priest admonish’d them how they should lead their Lives, since they were united with their God; which ended, they all went to their several Habitations in a wonderful good order from the Temple. [Sidenote: Ancient Attire of the _Mexicans_.] Concerning the _Mexicans_ Apparel, it is a sufficient testimony, that they are no way of the same original with the several barbarous Nations, that run up and down naked in _New Spain_: for the Inhabitants of _Mexico_ went antiently Cloth’d in Cotton: On their Heads they wore a high Plume of red Feathers; about their Necks, over their Shoulders, Breast and Back, a kind of large _Thorax_ of Feathers curiously pleited; each Arm adorn’d with Armlets, and their Middles girt with broad white Girdles full of red Streaks; in stead of Garters they wore Laces of Feathers, as also a little above their Ancles. Their Priests besmear’d all their Bodies, especially the Head, with an Ointment, whose special vertue was to make their Hair grow exceeding long, which they braided with broad Cotton Strings; they also smutch’d themselves with a kind of blacking Stuff; when they went to make Offerings to their Idol in Caves, Woods, or on high Mountains, they bedawb’d themselves with an Ointment made of Spiders, Salamanders, Adders, Scorpions and Toads, which the Temple-Boys caught for them in great abundance. This Ointment they made with many Circumstances; for having roasted the fore-mention’d Vermine on the Hearth of the perpetual Fire before _Viztlipuztli_’s Altar, and stamp’d the same in a Mortar with Tobacco, living Scorpions, the Seed _Ololuchqui_, (to which they ascrib’d a power of representing Visions) hairy Worms, and Soot, they kneaded all together, put the Ointment in Pots, and plac’d it before the Idol, thenceforth reputing it a sanctifi’d Medicine, that would prove good against all manner of Diseases; wherefore the Priests being always sent for to the Sick in stead of Doctors, perfum’d the Patient, shav’d his Hair, hung Snakes Bones about his Neck, and order’d him at a certain Hour to bathe himself, and in the Night to watch before a Fire-hearth, and to eat no Bread but what had been Offer’d to their Idol. Moreover, the said Ointment is thought to have another power, _viz._ to make those that anointed themselves with the same, valiant and strong; which the common People believ’d, because the Priests would go through Woods and Wildernesses that abounded with ravenous Beasts. [Illustration] These _Heathens_ also seem’d to have something of Circumcision and Baptism; for they not onely cut off a piece of the Infant’s Ears and privy Members, which they Offer’d to their Idols, but also wash’d them as soon as they came into the World, putting into their Hands such Tools as were of use in their Fathers Profession. [Sidenote: Their Nuptial Solemnities.] Their Marriages also were celebrated with great solemnity: The Priest having ask’d the Bride and Bridegroom, If they would joyn together in Matrimony? if they both consented, he ty’d the Brides Scarf, and Bridegrooms Coat together, and so accompanying them home, led them nine times about the Fire-hearth: If the Bride had no Impediments, then the Bridegroom made Presents to her Father and Mother, Offerings to the Gods, and a brave Dinner to the nearest Relations; after which an Inventory was drawn of what each of them had brought, that upon their being Divorc’d, (which was very common amongst the _Mexicans_) each might have his share; and if they had Children, the Man was to keep the Sons, and the Woman the Daughters; nor were they permitted, on pain of death, being once parted, to joyn together again. [Sidenote: The Feast _Texcoalt_.] On the ninteenth of May they kept the Feast _Texcoalt_, Consecrated to the Idol _Tezcatlipuca_, before whom they Offer’d a Slave, which was done after this manner: Towards the Evening the Multitude coming into the Temple, the Priests pulling off the Idols old, put on new Apparel, hung him full of Precious Stones and Armlets, set Plumes of Feathers on his Head; which done, the Curtains behind which he stood, were drawn, and a Priest Cloth’d exactly like the Idol coming forth, turn’d himself round, blow’d a kind of Trumpet towards the four Winds, and ate Earth, which all the People imitated: whereof those which had committed any hainous Offence, Offer’d Incense to the Idol, and weeping, begg’d forgiveness of their Sins. Those that were Soldiers besought him to grant them store of Prisoners, and strength to conquer their Enemies; for which they would return him thanks with Offer’d Prisoners. This Feast of _Texcoalt_ lasting ten days, ended on the twenty ninth of _May_ with peculiar Ceremonies; for in the Morning a company of Priests, black all over, carried on their Shoulders a large Chair of State richly adorn’d; in which sat their Idol _Tezcatlipuca_, and Priests with long pleited Hair, and Clad in the same Apparel with the Idol, which they set down at the Foot of a pair of Stairs which led up to a Chappel; whither the attendant Youths and Virgins came and spread Carpets before it, and green Boughs of _Manghey_; after which two Priests carried the Idol into a spacious Court in the Temple, several others walking before, each with a perfuming Vessel; when they threw their Perfumes on the Consecrated Hearth, they held their Hands towards the Idol, desiring him that he would send their Prayers to Heaven: Next follow’d the Multitude, who scourg’d themselves till the Blood ran down from their Backs. So soon as the Procession was ended, the represented _Tezcatlipuca_ was hoised up to the Cieling, and abundance of Flowers strow’d before the Altar; which done, every one went home to Dinner, whilst the Youths and Virgins adorn’d the Idol, and plac’d Meat before him: Lastly, the Votaresses came two and two with Baskets of Bread, and Dishes of Meat: their Governess in a white Sur-Coat over a red Vest, with Wings on her Shoulders, and broad Girts, at which hung _Calabashes_ fill’d with holy Reliques and Flowers: Moreover, she conducted the Votaresses to the Steps of the Altar on which the Idol sat; where having eaten Bread they came back, and the Temple-Servants went in their places, and carried the Meat which stood on the Altar to the Priests Cells, who by that time were to have Fasted five days: this done, the People came all to the Temple again, to be present at the end of the Feast: then a Slave, who had represented the Idol a whole year, appear’d, to whom everyone having shew’d Reverence, the chief Priest cutting open his Breast, tore the Slave’s Heart reaking out of his Body, and shew’d it to the Sun; then the Consecrated Youths and Maids made a great noise with Drumming, Singing and Dancing about the Body till Sun-set; after which the Virgins going up to the upper Chappel, plac’d Bread and Fruit, made up like dead Mens Bones and Heads, before the Idol, where, after it had stood a little while, the Servants went up and fetch’d it down, whilst the Youths and Maids went to their several Cloysters. Much after the same manner, and with such like brutish Ceremonies, not worth mentioning, was also celebrated the Feast of _Quetzatcoalt_. In the inner part of the Temple stood a Stage, on which upon Festival Days the People Acted Drolls; in which they sometimes feign’d themselves deaf, blind, lame, and the like, and begg’d to be cur’d of their Idols; sometimes were dress’d like Serpents, Adders, Crocodiles, or other ravenous Beasts, in which postures they fought one with another. [Sidenote: Computation of Time amongst the _Mexicans_.] Those Feasts were all kept on certain times, according to the Mexican Almanack, in which the Year was divided into eight Moneths, and each Moneth into forty five Days, which together made three hundred and sixty: The five remaining Days, to compleat the Year, they kept apart, on which all Affairs whatsoever were laid aside, as Selling, Buying, Offerings, _&c._ nothing else being thought on but Feasting one another for the passing away of the time. The first Day of their Year was on the twenty sixth of _February_. Each Moneth had a peculiar Name and Sign. Moreover, they divided the Year into four parts by as many Representations, _viz._ a House, a Rabbet, a Cane, and a Flint to strike Fire with; and Figur’d it out by a Wheel with four Spikes jutting out round about it, colour’d green, red, blue, and yellow, and in the middle thereof a Sun; each Spike signifi’d thirteen years, wherefore it had thirteen Divisions, distinguish’d by the four fore-mention’d Representations: At each Division of the Wheel they set down what remarkable things should happen that year by certain Characters; as, a Man in red Apparel typifi’d that Year when _Ferdinand Cortesius_, clad in Red, conquer’d _Mexico_. When the Wheel was fill’d with fifty two years Prognostication, then on the last Night they broke all their Pots and Vessels in pieces, and blew out their Candles, because they believ’d, that at the end of the said fifty two years the World would be at an end, and therefore they had no need of Housholdstuff, or ought else: But so soon as the Day appear’d again, they play’d on Pipes, Trumpets, and Drums, rejoycing that God had deferr’d the destruction of the World fifty two years longer; then they bought new Utensils and Candles, and made solemn Processions. [Sidenote: Art of Writing.] Concerning the Art of Writing amongst the Inhabitants of _New Spain_, _Joseph Acosta_ tells us, That some old Books, containing ancient Passages, the Course of the Heavens, nature of Beasts and Plants, were found in _Jucatan_, according to the Relation of a Learned _Indian_, but were all burnt by Command of a _Spanish_ Bishop, because he suppos’d them to be full of Matter touching the Black Art. Their Histories they describ’d with the Representations of the Things. Rhetorick and Poetry the Children were taught by Rote in the Schools, so that they never forgot what they had once learnt; But at present they use _Spanish_ Letters or Characters. [Sidenote: Ancient Government.] Moreover, the Government of _Mexico_ hath ever been kept in a good Order, the King’s Power being exactly limited, that nothing might be lost of the common Priviledges. The fourth King _Icoath_ made Earls, who next to the Lords of _Tezcuco_ and _Tacuba_, had right to the Crown; which was like a Mitre turn’d up behind, and rising before with a Point. According as they increas’d in Power, so they advanc’d in Royal Dignity; in which _Muteczuma_ the Second exceeded all others: And to manifest his splendor, his House for all sorts of Creatures, and many other things, might serve for a sufficient testimony: for in it he kept Sea-Fish in salt Water, River-Fish in fresh Water, and all manner of Beasts in peculiar places: The Birds were kept in great Aviaries, surrounded with golden Rails. Next to the Kings follow’d four Earls call’d _Atlacohecalcatl_, which signifies _Princes of the Throne Launces_, a Weapon much us’d amongst the _Mexicans_. The next in Degree were the _Tlacatecatl_, or _Man-cleavers_; _Esauahuacatl_, or _Blood-shedders_; _Tsallancalqui_, or _Lords of Blackness_, without all which the King durst not take any Business in hand. High and lesser Courts of Judicatory, where Matters of Life and Death were try’d, were in most Cities; and other Courts also for petty Quarrels, Controversies, and the like. The Collectors brought their Revenues to the Court every Moneth. The chief thing which preferr’d both Rich and Poor to Places of Honor, consisted in Valour and heroick Exploits. Their Arms were chiefly sharp pieces of Flint made fast to a Stick, with which they could at one Blow chop off a Horses Head. They also us’d Pikes, Clubs, and Lances, and sometimes Slings: For defensive Armour, they had Helmets and Shields, made of Tygers, Leopards, and Lyons Skins. They always fell upon their Enemies unawares, their Design being generally to take Prisoners rather than to kill them; for they reserv’d them for Offerings to their Idols. _Muteczuma_ made several Commanders over his Armies, giving them a Power one above the other, which were to be distinguish’d by several Marks; for the chiefest ty’d the Hair on the top of their Heads with a red String, betwixt which stuck a brave Plume of Feathers; at the end whereof hung as many Tassels as they had done noble Exploits. To this Order belong’d also the King, who wore one of the same Marks, with which King _Muteczuma_ and his Son stand Carv’d on a Rock. The _Ayulas_, or _The Order of the Eagle_, consisted of valiant Men. The _Grey Knights_ were of less Quality, and wore Collars which reach’d up to their Ears, the lower part of their Body being naked. Persons of greater Dignity, when going to the War, were Arm’d from Head to Foot: Which Order was also permitted to wear Cotton-Clothes, and Shoes richly embroider’d with Gold and Silver; they us’d painted Vessels, and had Lodgings provided for them at Court. [Sidenote: Their Education of Youth.] Moreover, it is worthy of observation, what great care the _Mexicans_ took in the bringing up of their Children; to which purpose they had Schools near to their Temples, in which Youth was taught to Sing, Dance, Morality, Obedience, and also Martial Discipline. Children of noble Extract had Learned Men for their Tutors. Their Punishments for Transgressions were very severe, the Masters forcing their Scholars to Fast and Watch, carry great Burthens of Provisions to the Army, and be in the midst of Engagements. Others, whose Fancy led them to a holy Life, willingly embrac’d the Services of the Temple. [Sidenote: Their manner of Dancing.] Their manner of Dancing in _New Spain_ was very strange and differing; they us’d pretty Instruments, and Songs which contain’d antique Passages, according to the Times; they in their Motions imitated Shepherds, Fisher-men, Plowmen, Hunters, and the like: Sometimes they Danc’d in _Mascarades_, with a Man on their Shoulders, making the same Motion with his Hands in the Air, as the other with his Feet on the Ground. They had also Tumblers and Dancers on the Ropes, which shew’d strange Tricks on an erected Pole. But above all Dances, the _Mitotes_ was the chief, which was generally Danc’d in the King’s Palace, or inner Court of the Temple; in the middle of which they plac’d a great Drum and a hollow Tub on a large Image; round about which the most eminent Persons made a Ring, Sang sweetly, and Danc’d leisurely, when on a sudden two that are more nimble, with divers Motions came into the midst of them, and Danc’d exactly after the sound of the Drum and hollow Tub, which was seconded with the noise of Flutes and Pipes. [Illustration] CHAP. VI. New Gallicia. [Sidenote: Bounds and Extent of _New Gallicia_.] _New Gallicia_, by some call’d _Guadalajara_, from the chief City. This whole Province is the most Northern Countrey of all _America_, that is inhabited to any purpose by the _Spaniards_. Here, ’tis true, they are scatter’d up and down in all the parts of it, but it is at a huge distance, and for the most part onely where the Mines are. It is bounded on the East and to the South, with the Kingdom of _Mexico_ or _New Spain_; on the West, with the Gulf or Bay of _California_; Northward, for so much as is yet discover’d, with _Quivira_ and _Cibola_, lying between eighteen and twenty eight Degrees of Northern Latitude, that is, from _La Natividad_, a Port so nam’d by the _Spaniards_, in the Confines of _New Spain_, to the most Northerly Borders of _Cinoloa_, a part of this Province, containing, as is suppos’d, not much less than three hundred Leagues in length, and in breadth much more; and whereof not a tenth part is either us’d or frequented by the _Spaniards_. [Sidenote: Temperature and Nature of the Countrey.] The Air is generally here very temperate, inclining rather to Heat than Cold, and subject now and then to sudden Storms of Rain, and great Claps of Thunder, which yet do not hinder, but that the Countrey is held to be reasonably healthful, and the People observ’d to live generally to a good old Age. The Soil, by reason of the Climate, would be a little inclining to Drought, but that, besides the frequent Rains which it hath, it is constantly moistned with fresh Morning Dews, which make it for the most part wonderfully fruitful, almost beyond belief, yielding for every Bushel of Wheat that is sown, threescore; and of _Maiz_, two hundred for one; besides great plenty of Sugar-Canes and Cochinele; both which nevertheless the _Spaniards_ are said to neglect in some sort, employing themselves wholly about richer Commodities: for the Countrey affords them good store of Mines of Silver and Brass, but of Gold or Iron, not many as yet have been found. The Rivers abound plentifully with Fish, and the Woods with Venison, and some other wild Beasts. The Countrey is generally more mountainous than plain, frequently shaded with Woods, and whole Forrests of the stateliest Pine-Trees and Oaks that are to be seen; amongst which breed abundance of Wolves, which do great mischief to the People, as also Scorpions and _Mustiecho_’s. The Hurts receiv’d from Scorpions, are heal’d with the Juice of the Fruit call’d _Queon_; those from the _Mustiecho_’s, by Vinegar and the Juice of Lemmon. Here is likewise a green Stone, accounted a soveraign Medicine against the Gravel. [Sidenote: Several sorts of _Tunas_-Trees.] The Trees peculiar to this Countrey, are, the _Tunas_, already spoken of in _Guatimala_, and thought to be the same we vulgarly call _Indian Fig-Trees_, and are distinguish’d into six sorts. The first, by the _Portuguese_ call’d _Cardon_, hath sharp Prickles, thick Leaves, full of slimy Juice, an odoriferous Flower, oval Fruit, cover’d with an Orange-colour’d Rind, and small Roots: The Fruit within consists of a white juicy, and well tasted Pulp, full of black Seed. The second hath a round Body full of Boughs, with Star-like Prickles hanging downwards, the Flower white, and the Fruit very like that of the _Cardon_, onely smaller. [Illustration] The third is the _Caxabra_, which shoots up to a great Tree full of prickly Cods; at the utmost end grows a large white Flower; the Fruit, which is as big again as an Egg, is pleasant and cooling. The fourth sort hath a straight Body full of Prickles, runs lesser and lesser to the top; at the end of the small Boughs, each thick Leaf produces another; the Wood, if kindled, burns like a Candle. The fifth, nam’d _Cumbeba_, grows out of small Roots, with three or four corner’d thick Leaves, full of Prickles, the Flower somewhat less than the former, the Fruit oval, hard and red, having a white and juicy Pulp: The Prickles of this _Cumbeba_-Tree are so sharp, and stick in so deep, that they can scarce be pull’d out. This is that sort of _Tunas_ that produces _Cochinele_, which is a Worm that grows under the Leaves, and is cover’d with a Skin, which being neatly taken off and dry’d in the Sun, as formerly mention’d, becomes a rich Commodity. _Joseph de Acosta_ tells us, that the _Spanish_ Fleet, _Anno 1578._ carried so much _Cochinele_ to _Spain_, as amounted to two hundred eighty three thousand seven hundred and fifty Ryals. But the last sort of the _Tunas_ is the _Unirumbeba_, which hath a straight Body full of Prickles, on the top whereof grow divers prickly Leaves, not unlike those of the Palm-Tree: It is onely found in barren places, remote from the Sea. Moreover, all kind of Fruits transplanted hither from _Spain_ thrive very well, as Apples, Pears, Granats, Figs, Peaches, Apricocks, Muskmelons, _&c._ [Sidenote: The Root _Castanuela_.] [Sidenote: The _Batata_.] The Root _Castanuela_ affords a much better Feeding for Swine than Acorns. But amongst many other Roots which are found here, as the _Xiquimas_, _Taca_, _Cochuco_, _Cari_, _Totora_ and _Mani_, the chief is the _Batata_, which is fat, sweet, and windy; it runs over the Ground with a tough green Sprig, the new Fibres taking Root dispersedly up and down, being yellow without, and within full of milky Juice; the Leaf resembling a Heart, is of a pale yellow colour on the top, and douny underneath; roasted in Ashes, it eats better than a Turnip: It is divided into three sorts. The first, call’d _Omenapo yeima_, when boyl’d, shews like red _Betel_, but Dyes of a Skye-Colour; the innermost Skin, which is of a dark Red, yields an Ink-like Juice. The second sort, call’d _Parro_, differs little from the first, onely the Body, Root, and Veins of the Leaves, are of a Purple colour. The third sort _Jetiope_, being white, hath a very good rellish, and cures the Ague. The Pepper, which is here call’d _Axi_, grows in the warmest Valleys, and the more by being often water’d: there are of it divers kinds, differing in colour, smell, and taste one from the other; for one sort is green, yellow, or red; another sort yields a strong musky scent; and one sort is sharper, another milder: the Veins and Kernels thereof are eaten with Salt. The Herb _Cevadilla_ cures all manner of Sores. [Sidenote: Beasts.] This Countrey also breeds an innumerable company of Deer, Hogs, Goats, Sheep, Oxen, and Horses; and of hurtful Creatures, Pismires, which do great mischief to the Plants, and Locusts, which fall in huge swarms on the Corn, and cannot be frighted from the same by any means whatsoever. The want of Water is also no small prejudice to the Fields. The biggest River, call’d _Guadalajara_, with many windings runs North-westward into the Southern Ocean; and four Leagues from the City of the same, falling down from a steep Rock, it makes such a horrible noise, that it deafens those which approach the same. The Lake _Mechoacan_ opens here also with a wide Mouth. [Sidenote: Two sorts of Hedge-hogs.] The River before mention’d, produces all manner of Fish in great abundance; and also a sort of Hedge-hogs, call’d _Iguana_, which live both in the Water, and on the Land, and are of two sorts: The first, call’d _Senembi_, is four Foot long, of a deep green colour, with black and white Spots, hath a scaly Skin, white Spots on each side of the Head, a row of sharp Prickles from the Head to the Tail, wide Nostrils, great black Eyes, and little Teeth. The second sort, call’d _Tejaguacu_, differs from the first, in having white Spots on a brown Skin, a longer Tail, and a red Tongue, which is slit. Both sorts are reported to fast eight Moneths together; and though often terribly wounded, and dead to all imagination, yet live a great while after; and though they swim up and down in Rivers, yet they Lay their Eggs in the Sand: their Flesh boyl’d is both wholsom, and of a good relish. [Sidenote: The manner of the _Spaniards_ living.] The _Spaniards_ which inhabit _New Gallicia_, drive a considerable Trade in Merchandizing, Husbandry, breeding of Cattel, and working in the Mines: They use Wayns and Carrs, drawn by Oxen, Mules, and Horses, to carry their Loads, as also _Spanish_ Weights and Measures. They are little troubled with any other Mischiefs but what may happen from the treacherous Natives, who take all opportunities to run into the Woods, that there they may exercise their _Pagan_ Religion in freedom; in which having spent some time, they gather a considerable number together, and oftentimes fall unawares on the _Spaniards_, who use Leather Shields and Helmets, and furr’d Cotton Clothes, to secure them from the Arrows which the _Indians_, lying in Ambuscades, shoot at them out of the Bushes. [Sidenote: The Nature, Habits, and Customs of the Natives.] The Natives, though subtile, are lazy, and will not work, unless for great Rewards. They wear Cotton Shirts, square Cloaks of the same Stuff, made fast with two Buttons on their Breasts; Drawers, and soal’d Shoes: Flag-Matts serve them for Beds, on which they lie under Cotton Clothes: About their Necks, Arms, and Legs, they wear green Stones, and Snale Shells for an Ornament. Their greatest Recreation is Dancing, their Musick being nothing else but the noise or sound of a piece of hollow Wood. Horse-flesh, and Bread made of _Maiz_, is by them accounted a great Dainty. The Drink _Cacao_ is also highly esteem’d amongst them; but much more the Wine that they make of _Maquey_, which is the wonderful Tree that affords many necessary things, _viz._ Syrrup, Honey, Oyl, Vinegar, Yarn, Needles, Water, and Wine; every Man making it his Business to plant and preserve the same with great care near his House, notwithstanding they grow in several places of the Fields; they have broad thick Leaves with sharp ends, out of which is drawn a Thorn, which serves them for a Needle or Pin. These Leaves have a hairy Filament about them, which serves in stead of Thred: the young Sprout being cut, produces a sweet Juice, which boyl’d, makes good Wine; when grown sowre, serves for Vinegar; but being twice boyl’d, becomes a Syrrup; and being hung over the Fire a third time, a perfect Honey: Also the Wood being spungie, keeps Fire as well as Match. Moreover, the Inhabitants when they travel, carry Leather Bags with them full of _Cacao_, _Maiz_, and Pepper, mix’d together. Over each Village in this Countrey the _Spaniards_ have plac’d an _Indian Casique_, _Alcalde_, and _Alguazil_, where all sorts of Provisions are sold at a Set-price. The _Casiques_ are succeeded by their Heirs, who resent nothing worse than Affronts, and take pride in nothing more than their Valour. The _Moors_ or _Negro_’s which are brought hither from _Guinee_, do all manner of hard Labour. The _Guachichiles_ and _Guamares_ area valiant People, and have each their peculiar Language, utterly different from the _Mexican_. [Sidenote: Division of _Nova Gallicia_.] This Countrey comprehends these inferior Provinces: 1. _Guadalajara_; 2. _Xalisco_; 3. _Chiametta_; 4. _Couliacan_; 5. _Cinoloa_; all of them on the Western Shore. 6. _Zacatecas_, to which some add _Nova Biscaia_ and _Nova Mexico_, though others treat of them as distinct Countreys apart from the rest. SECT. II. Guadalajara. [Sidenote: Bounds of _Guadalajara_.] _Guadalajara_ is bounded on the West, with _Xalisco_; on the South and South-West, with _New Spain_; and on the North, with _Zacatecas_. It is a Countrey exceeding pleasant, and rich in all kind of Commodities, but especially in its Mines of Silver. It is well water’d with the River _Barania_, which runneth through the midst of it, and with divers other Streams: yielding abundantly both Wheat, _Maiz_, and some other Grain. In a word, there is nothing said of the properties of _New Gallicia_ in general, either for Soil, Climate, or People, but is peculiarly verifi’d of this Province. [Sidenote: Towns and Cities.] The chief Towns are 1. _Guadalajara_, which gives Name to the whole Province. It is seated on the Banks of the River _Barania_, in a most delectable and sweet Air, and a rich Soil, by advantage whereof it is become the Metropolis of _New Gallicia_, honour’d with an Episcopal See, which was translated thither from _Compostella_ in the Year 1570. with the Courts of Judicature, and the Residence of the King’s Treasurers for that Province. This City was built on the Plain _Molino_, by _Nunnez de Guzman_, in the Year 1531. The neighboring Mountains afford store of Timber. All manner of _Spanish_ Plants grow here likewise in great plenty. In the City is a Cathedral, several Cloysters, inhabited by _Augustine_ and _Franciscan_ Monks. The Bishop of this City belongs to the Arch-bishop of _Mexico_. The Air very temperate, neither molesting the Inhabitants with too great Cold, nor excess of Heat. 2. _St. Maria de los Lagos_, a Town thirty Leagues Eastward of _Guadalajara_, being a Fronteer Place, and built on purpose to secure the Countrey against the _Chichemecæ_, which are a barbarous and unreduc’d People of the North-East parts of this Countrey who harbouring themselves in Caves under Ground in the thickest huge Woods and Forrests, do oftentimes issue out, and make foul spoil in the Countrey where they come, having first intoxicated themselves with a Liquor made of certain Roots, and would do much more harm, if it were not for this Garrison. 3. _Del Spiritu Santo_, built by the Founder of the other two, _viz._ _Nunnez de Gusman_ aforesaid, in a part of the Countrey which they call _Tepeque_. SECT. III. Xalisco. [Sidenote: Bounds and Description of _Xalisco_.] _Xalisco_, or _Galesco_, as some call it, is bounded on the North, with _Couliacan_; on the South, with some parts of _New Spain_; on the East, with the Province of _Guadalajara_; and on the West, with the Gulf or Bay of _California_. The Countrey is chiefly fertile in _Maiz_ and Mines of Silver, not altogether so apt for Herbage and Pasture as some other Countreys about it. The People were Cannibals before the _Spaniards_ came amongst them, eating Man’s-flesh; were much given to quarrelling and Contentions amongst themselves, but by this time, ’tis suppos’d they are reasonably well reclaim’d both from the one and the other. [Sidenote: Towns of chief note.] In this Countrey, besides many other goodly Streams, is the great and famous River _Barania_, on the Banks whereof are seated most of their principal Towns, as 1. _Xalisco_, which gives Name to the whole Province, and to a large Promontory or Foreland on the Western Coasts, which shoots it self out into the Bay of _California_, right over against certain Islands, which the _Spaniards_ call The _Three Maries_. This was an ancient City or Town of the Natives, but sack’d and taken by _Nunnez de Gusman_, in the Year 1530. 2. _Compostella_, built by the aforesaid _Gusman_, and so nam’d from the City in _Spain_, so famous for the Grave of _James_ the Apostle, who (according to the _Roman_ Writers) was buried there, lies near the South Sea on a barren Soil, within the _Torrid Zone_; yet the Ground breeds many sorts of Vermine, besides other noxious Creatures; amongst which the _Capybara_ roots up whole Trees and other Plants in the Night. This Beast, resembling an indifferent large Hog, hath short Legs and Claws, thick Head, with a Beard, wide Ears, and on each Jaw-bone twenty four Teeth, besides two Tusks, but no Tail; it goes slow, but swims exceeding fast, and dives under Water for a considerable time together; they often feed together in great Herds, and make a terrible noise. 3. _La Purification_, a small Town on the Sea side, towards the Confines of _New Spain_. SECT. IV. Chiametla. [Sidenote: Situation of _Chiametla_.] Against _Xalisco_ juts _Chiametla_, along the South Sea, where the Inhabitants wear short cloaks, and Deer-skin Shoes; and in the Wars use Shields made of strong Twigs twisted together. The Women, which are indifferent handsom, are clad down to their Feet. [Sidenote: Towns of principal note.] The chief Town of this Province is _Sant Sebastian_, call’d from the River upon which it stands; it was built by Captain _Franciscus de Yvarra_, _Anno 1554._ who discovering many Silver Mines, hath made several Melting-houses, in which the Silver being melted swims upon the Lead. SECT. V. Couliacan. [Sidenote: Bounds of _Couliacan_.] Next to _Chiametla_, Westward and Southward of _Cinoloa_, lies _Couliacan_, Coasting all along the Bay of _California_, which it hath on the West; on the East it hath _New Biscay_; and on the South, _Xalisco_. The Countrey is not defective in any kind of necessary Provision, but more especially it aboundeth with Fruits of all sorts. But the _Spaniards_ look onely at the Mines, of which they have some few in this Countrey. The People were generally Cloth’d with Cotton-Wooll when the _Spaniards_ came first amongst them, but yet never a whit the more modest, being exceedingly given to Venery, and that in a more shameless and beastly manner than many other _Americans_ who went naked. [Sidenote: Towns.] The _Spanish_ Towns are these, 1. _Hiustula_, seated on the Banks of a fair River, distant about a days Journey from the Sea. 2. _Quinola._ 3. _Quatrobarrios_, an old Town of the Natives, but new nam’d by the _Spaniards_. 4. _El Leon_, an old Burrough. 5. _Couliacan_, the chief Town of the Province. 6. _St. Michael_, in the Valley of _Arroba_, two Leagues distant from the Sea, in a rich and plentiful Countrey, both for Corn and Fruit, whither it was remov’d from the Banks of the River _Orala_, where it first stood; it was built by _Nunnez de Gusman_ in the Year 1531. after he had burnt the Towns, and destroy’d a great number of the Natives, Inhabitants of the Countrey. [Sidenote: _Nunnez de Gusman_ first Discoverer of this Countrey.] [Sidenote: Serpents worshipp’d by the Natives.] This Countrey was first discover’d by the aforesaid _Nunnez de Gusman_ (after he had built _Guadalajara_) after this manner: Marching from _Chiametla_ to _Piatzala_, he ruin’d this Province with Fire and Sword: he likewise conquer’d the Countreys of _Zapuatun_ and _Piaztla_; the first being a Plain, lay inclos’d within high Mountains, where the _Spaniards_ met none but Women, till they came to a great River call’d _De la Sall_, whose Banks on each side were well inhabited; the second juts against the Ocean, and is water’d by a River of the same Denomination. Here, within the Houses, (which are built after a strange manner) lay thousands of Serpents mingled together, with their Heads sticking out on the top and at the sides, and hissing with open Mouth at those which approached them. The Inhabitants shew’d great Reverence to these Serpents, because (as they said) the Devil often appear’d to them in that form. And this seems to be a Custome amongst them from the Tradition of _Eves_ being tempted by the Devil in the shape of a Serpent: Nor was this Superstition peculiar onely to these _Indians_, forasmuch as divers Nations of the ancient _Heathens_ of other parts of the World, worshipp’d the Likeness of a Serpent. And even amongst the _Greeks_, according to _Plutarch_, _Hesychius_, _Clemens Alexandrinus_, and others, it was no unusual thing in their religious Worship to call on _Eva_, and at the same time to shew a Serpent. _Plutarchus_ and _Ælianus_ say, That the _Egyptians_ honour’d a Serpent for their God. The same saith _Erasmus Stella_ of the old _Prussians_; _Sigismund Baro_, of the _Liflanders_; and _Alexander Guaginus_, of the _Sarmatians_ and _Samogethes_. Moreover, some write, that in the Province of _Calecut_ are Serpents with exceeding great Heads, and weighing as much as a great Hog, to which the King shews great Reverence; so that it seems the Devil takes delight to be worship’d in that shape wherein he work’d the Fall of Man-kind. _Gusman_ leaving _Piaztla_ march’d to _Bayla_, where he found the great River _De Mugeres_, and the Countrey full of Woods and Pastures: thence travelling upwards along _Mugueres_, they ascended to the top of a Mountain, where they were assaulted by the Inhabitants of the aforesaid Village _Quinola_, whom nevertheless they soon put to flight; but not long after receiv’d a shrew’d Repulse at the Entrance into a Wood built full of Houses; yet nevertheless being at length Conquerors, though not without sufficient loss, they march’d farther in amongst the Mountains, till their Provisions beginning to grow scarce, and they seeing no likelihood of getting to an end of this troublesom Journey, at last their Necessities forc’d them to retire. [Illustration] [Sidenote: The Fish _Guarapucu_.] [Sidenote: The _Piracarba_.] [Sidenote: Flying Fishes.] The Flood which comes out of the Sea up to the City _St. Michael_, through the River _Cignatlan_, abounds with Fish, and especially the _Guarapucu_, which is seven Foot long when it comes to its full growth; it hath no Scales, but smooth Skin of a Silver colour mix’d with Green: from the Head to the Tail runs a crooked Line of thin Scales on each side; it swims exceeding swift, feeds on lesser Fishes, and spawns in the Sea: the Flesh being wholsom and good to eat, is salted up against Winter. At the same Place is also the _Piracarba_, which shines exceedingly, having Silver-colour’d Scales, a broad slit Tail, a long white Beard, four great Fins, and a little Head. Farther into the Sea are a sort of flying Fish, call’d _Pirabebes_, which rise by thousands up out of the Water, so escaping the _Dolphins_ and other Fish which prey on them; yet sometimes they are snatch’d up by the Birds, or else by the Fishes, when they dive down into the Water to wet their own Wings, which consist of a thin Skin, distinguish’d in length by tough Fins. These flying Fish also differ much one from another, for most of them are like Herrings; others have a thick Head, round before like the Dolphins. Moreover, the Countrey about _St. Michael_ was always well inhabited. The Houses, being artificially built, were adorn’d on the top with many obscene Images, and venereal Representations: But since the _Spaniards_ have conquer’d this Countrey they have destroy’d them, and built other Houses in their stead, and also bestow’d much cost and labour on the Silver Mines _De las Virgines_. SECT. VI. Cinoloa. [Sidenote: Bounds of _Cinoloa_.] _Cinoloa_ is the most Northern part of _New Gallicia_, bounded on the West, with some part of the Gulf or Bay of _California_; on the East, with a long Ridge of Mountains, which they call _Tepecsuan_; on the North, with _Cibola_; and with _Couliacan_ on the South. This Country, besides the general fertility of the whole Province of _New Gallicia_, yields great store of Cotton-Wool, by reason whereof both Men and Women here are better Apparell’d, for the most part, than elsewhere the _Americans_ are; is exceedingly well water’d with Rivers, which descend from those Mountains _Tepecsuan_, not above thirty or forty Leagues distant from the Sea; and which, with the variety of their Streams and Meandrous glidings, do divide the Countrey into many and good Pastures, which are likewise stor’d with abundance of Kine, Oxen, and other Cattel. [Sidenote: Towns.] The chief Towns possess’d by the _Spaniards_ are 1. _St. Philip_ and _Jacob_, seated towards the Sea side, on the Banks of a fair River, about thirty or forty Leagues distant from the Town of _Couliacan_. 2. _St. John de Cinoloa_, an ancient Colony of _Spaniards_, setled there by _Francisco de Yvarra_, in the Year 1554, which is all they have in this Countrey, except some few old Forts of the Natives, which they found, after their manner, poorly furnish’d; but have since repair’d them for Defence against the Natives of those Parts, which as yet remain unreduc’d. [Sidenote: _Nunnez de Gusman_’s Travels.] This Province was also discover’d by _Nunnez de Gusman_, who having rested some Weeks in _St. Michael_, proceeding on his Way, he Ferried over the River _Petatlan_, which receiv’d that Denomination because the Houses were cover’d with Mats, by the _Indians_ call’d _Petat_. The People hereabouts were generally Man-eaters. Eighteen Leagues farther runs the River _Tamochala_, which hath many Villages on both sides thereof. Between _Petatlan_ and _Tamochala_ lie several desolate Wildernesses, and Woods of the _Brasile_-Tree. But _Gusman_ travelling up twenty seven Leagues along the fore-mention’d River _Tamochala_, came to the Province _Cinoloa_, where they stay’d six Weeks, by reason of the abundance of Rains; during which time the Villagers provided them Turtle-Doves, Hares, Rabbets, and all sorts of Fowls; but at last deserted their Habitations in the Night: after which the _Spaniards_ crossing _Tamochala_ went along a barren Desart, where (had they not found Water in certain Wells, and likewise store of Juice out of the _Tunas_-Trees) they had without doubt perish’d; at last getting over the River _Yaguinu_, they found a deserted Village, out of which a broad Path led along the Stream; whither _Gusman_ marching, he came into a Plain, where he spy’d several _Indians_, which after some resistance were routed by the _Spanish_ Horse. The Villages built on the Banks of the River _Yaguinu_, as also the Language of the Inhabitants differ little from the former. Not far from hence a Ridge of Hills runs into the Sea, and also extend themselves a hundred Leagues towards _Xalisco_. SECT. VII. Zacatecas. [Sidenote: Bounds and Description of _Zacatecas_.] The _Zacatecas_, as they call them, are bounded on the South, with _Guadalajara_; on the North, with _New Biscay_; on the West, with _Couliacan_ and some part of _Xalisco_; and on the East, with _New Spain_. The Countrey, especially the more Western part of it, is very rich in Silver Mines, no Province of this part of _America_ richer; but not so apt either for Wheat or _Maiz_. But the Eastern parts of it are abundantly stor’d with all sorts of Fruits, the Woods every where replenish’d with Deer, the Fields no less with Corn, and every Tree almost giving Entertainment to some Bird or other. [Sidenote: Towns and Villages.] The Towns are 1. _Las Zacatecas_, forty Leagues distant from _Guadalajara_, and fourscore from _Mexico_, but neighbor’d with most rich Mines, and therefore both Garrison’d and well peopled by the _Spaniards_; for ’tis suppos’d there are no less than five hundred Families of them in the Town, and about the Mines. 2. _St. Martins_, twenty seven Leagues distant from _Zacatecas_, and as rich a Place, having a Colony of four hundred _Spaniards_ at least. 3. _St. Lucas de Avinno._ 4. _Erena_, lesser Towns, but both of them rich, and seated in the midst of excellent Mines. 5. _Nombre de Dios_, in the most Northerly part of this Countrey, sixty eight Leagues distant from _Guadalajara_, and founded by the aforesaid _Francisco de Yvarra_; who having subdu’d and quieted the Natives, and thereby gain’d to himself the Government of these Countreys, granted the propriety of some Silver Mines both to the _Spaniards_ and to the Natives, and by that means drew so many of them thither, that in a short time it became the chiefest and best peopled town of the whole Province. 6. _Durango_, in the Valley of _Guadiana_, eight Leagues distant from _Nombre de Dios_, and built by _Yvarra_. 7. _Xeres de Frontera_, a Place built on purpose for the repressing of the _Chichemecæ_ aforesaid, and other Salvages that infested the Borders of _Guadalajara_, in the Regency of the Marquess of _Villa Manrique_. 8. Last, _St. Lewis_, built by _Alonso Pacheco_, in that part of the Countrey which is call’d _Uxitipa_, and peopled by him with a Colony of _Spaniards_, being distant about twenty Leagues from _Panuco_ in _New Spain_, to which the whole Countrey of _Uxitipa_ once belong’d. [Sidenote: Several Mines discover’d by the _Spaniards_.] The aforesaid _Franciscus de Yvarra_, _Anno 1554._ discover’d the Mine call’d _Sant Martin_, and since also _Lucas Avinno_, the Mine _Del Sombrereto_, lying near the City _Del Erena_: but the Mines _De los Ranchos_, _Chalchuites_, _De las Nieves_, and _Del Frisuillo_, would produce much more Silver, if the Mine-works were stor’d with Quicksilver. The Vice-Roy of _New Spain_, nam’d _Lodowick de Velasco_, order’d a certain number of Soldiers, Slaves, Horses and Mules, for every Mine, to defend the Workmen from the Assaults of the Natives, which oftentimes Sallied out upon them. Moreover, _Velasco_ sent Priests through all the Countrey to Preach the _Gospel_: But _Yvarra_ having the care of the Priests, guarded them with a company of Soldiers, and in his Way discover’d the Valley _San Juan_, and the River _De las Nacos_, where he conquer’d the rebelling Natives. Near the Silver Mine _Sant Martins_ the Monks built a Cloyster; after which _Yvarra_ gave free leave to all that would, to dig in the Mine at _Avinno_, which he had bought, on condition they should pay the real fifth part of what they got, to the _Spanish King_: which Priviledge stirr’d up many, insomuch that _Avinno_ in a short time grew very populous. _Yvarra_, though having brought his Business to this pass, could not rest, but sent _Antonius Pacheco_ to a Valley in _Guadiana_, to build the foremention’d City _Durango_, where several Rivers make a convenient and delightful place for Habitation, whither _Yvarra_ follow’d three Moneths after, and finish’d the new Town. But the chiefest Silver Mines, which borrow their Denominations from the Province _Zacatecas_, are continually guarded by five hundred _Spaniards_, and as many Slaves. [Illustration] CHAP. VII. New Biscay. [Sidenote: Bounds of _New Biscay_.] _New Biscay_, by some accounted a Province of _New Gallicia_, hath on the South, _Zacatecas_; on the West, the Countrey of _Cinoloa_; Northward it is bounded with _New Mexico_; the Eastern Borders of it looking towards _Florida_, not yet well discover’d: so call’d by the _Spaniards_, onely from its neighborhood to _New Gallicia_. It is, as the other Provinces, exceeding rich in Silver Mines, and hath some also of Lead; which serve principally, as some say, for the refining or purging of the other Metal. The People generally are of a stout and resolute Disposition, and with much difficulty submitting to the Yoke; yea, the _Spaniards_ themselves confess, that there remain yet to this day four great Towns unreduc’d, though they lie, as it were, in the mid-way, betwixt the _Zacatecas_ aforesaid, and the Mines and Town of _St. Barbara_ of this Province: The Spaniards call them _Las Quatro Ceinegas_, or _The Four Quagmires_, as lying, perhaps, in the Marshes, or in some Fenny and lower parts of the Countrey. [Sidenote: Towns and Cities.] The Towns which themselves hold, are, 1. _St. Barbara_, famous for the rich Mines about it. 2. _St. Johns_, equal to the other, and not above three or four Leagues distant from it. 3. _Ende_, the most Northerly Town which the _Spaniards_ have in this Countrey, distant about twenty Leagues from the other. These be all Colonies of the _Spaniards_, and built on purpose for securing the Mines; which when they were first discover’d by _Yvarra_, he order’d _Roderigo del Rio_ to guard the same, and took up his Winter Quarters at _St. Juan_ in a strong House, stor’d with all manner of Provisions, and erected there by him, as a place of defence against the _Chichimecæ_, who (though the _Spaniards_ kept the place with strong Guards) kill’d above four hundred of their Horses and Mules; which loss no way daunted him, so as to change his Resolution of going to _Topia_: whither travelling, he found many snowy Mountains, and suffer’d extream Cold, which kill’d most of their Horses; being seen fifteen days after to stand so stiffly frozen, as if still alive: at last getting within the Borders of _Topia_, after he had suffer’d many inconveniences, he was oppos’d by the Inhabitants, till he pacifi’d them with Presents. SECT. II. [Sidenote: Convenient Havens of _New Gallicia_.] This Countrey hath many convenient Havens, _viz._ _San Jago_, _Navidad_, _Malacca_, _Chacalla_, below the Promontory _Corientes_, the Bay _Xalisco_, the Road _Massatlan_, and _Chiametla_, so call’d from a Town about eleven Leagues from the Ocean. Here, and in several places of _New Gallicia_, grow Lillies, Roses, Violets, Jessamins, and many other Flowers; amongst which the _Floripondium_ deserves peculiar observation, because it flourishes the whole Year; and its white Blossoms, which are bigger than Lillies, opening in the Morning, yield an exceeding sweet smell. [Sidenote: The Flower _Granadilla_.] In no less esteem is the _Murucuia_, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Granadilla_, which will not grow, if bereav’d of any of its Leaves: it bears a Flower from the resemblance of our Saviour’s Suffering, call’d _The Passion-Flower_, which exceeds the biggest Rose in circumference; the uppermost Leaves green, those underneath of a purple colour; on the top hangs a round Bush of a thousand interwoven threds of divers colours, distinguish’d by white and red Specks; the pale Stalk which sticks in the middle of the Flower, is divided into five others, that bend downwards with a yellow Button-like Knob; on the middlemost Stalk stands a pale yellow Flower, which appears three hours after Sun-rising, and closes again a little before Sun-set; the Fruit, which is very round, smooth, and of a pale Green, hath white Specks, a thick Rind, Saffron-colour’d Pulp, which is wholsom, of a good rellish, and hath abundance of black Seeds inclos’d in little Husks. [Illustration] CHAP. VIII. New Mexico. [Sidenote: Bounds of _New Mexico_.] _New Mexico_ (as ’tis call’d for distinction’s sake) is bounded on the South-West with _New Biscay_; more directly Westward, with some parts of _Quivira_; the Countreys Northward of it not yet discover’d; Eastward it extends it self as far as _Florida_. This Province doubtless for largeness may compare with _New Gallicia_, having been search’d and discover’d by the _Spaniards_ above a hundred, some say two hundred Leagues directly Eastward, and to the North-East: and they report Wonders of it, if we may believe them, at least in respect of what was generally found in these Northern parts of _America_ at their first Discovery; as namely, That they have Towns fairly and well built of Lime and Stone, Houses of four Stories high, and most of them provided with Stoves for the Winter Season, as well as any in _Europe_; the Streets fair and broad, and the People as curious and expert in divers Arts and Manufactures as any of theirs. More particularly they tell us of a Town call’d _Chia_, of the Province of _Cuames_, so big, that it is said to contain eight several Market-places. Another call’d _Acoma_, a great Town, but seated on the top of an high Rock, without any ordinary way of access to it, but by a pair of Stairs hewn out of the hard Stone, or else by certain Ladders, which the Inhabitants let down and take up as they please. And likewise of a third, which they call _Conibas_, containing, as they say, no less than seven Leagues in length, and about half so much in breadth, seated upon a Lake, but scatteringly built, and much of the space taken up with Mountains and many fair Gardens, in the midst of which the Town standeth; of all which more hereafter. This is certain, that the Countrey to which they give the Name of _New Mexico_, is of a vast extent, reaching from the Mines of _St. Barbara_ in _New Biscay_ Eastward, and to the North-East, above two hundred Leagues already discover’d, but doubtless taking up no small part of those Countreys which are sometimes assign’d to _Florida_, if not of the Confines of _Virginia_ also. [Sidenote: Travels of _Ruyz_, _Espejus_ and others.] This Countrey was first, _Anno 1581._ discover’d by a _Franciscan_ Monk, nam’d _Augustine Ruyz_, who with two other Monks of his Order, got eight Soldiers of _Conde de Coruna_, Vice-Roy of _New Spain_, for his Companions; with whom he travell’d from the Valley _Sant Bartholomew_, to the Province _De los Tiguas_, where one of the two Monks was kill’d by the Natives, which occasion’d such a fear amongst the Souldiers, who judg’d themselves too weak to make any resistance, that they resolv’d to return, notwithstanding all the arguments which _Ruyz_ us’d to disswade them from it; yet nevertheless he and his Brother _Franciscus Lopez_ and four _Indians_, went onward of their Journey; which news the Souldiers carried back to the _Franciscans_ in _Sant Bartholomew_; who fearing their Brethren would be destroy’d, sent several Souldiers and a Monk, call’d _Bernardyn Beltran_, after them, who were also accompanied by _Antony Espejus_, who spent a great part of his Estate in raising of Men, providing Arms and Provisions, loading therewith a hundred and fifty Horses and Mules; with which he travell’d direct North from the fore-mention’d Valley, and after two days Journey found a People call’d _Conchi_, who went naked, and liv’d in Huts built together like a Village: They were Govern’d by _Casiques_, fed on Hares, Deer, Rabbets, _Maiz_, _Calabashes_, and Melons. Several adjacent Rivers afford them plenty of Fish. They were amaz’d at the Crosses which the _Spaniards_ there erected, till they were inform’d of a Crucifi’d Saviour. _Espejus_ being every where kindly Entertain’d amongst them, and conducted twenty two Leagues farther, came amongst the _Indians_ call’d _Passaguates_, of the like Constitution with the _Conchi_’s; who had skill in Minerals, and judg’d that there were many Silver Mines in that Countrey. From whence the _Passaguates_ travell’d with the _Spaniards_ to the Borders of the _Los Tobosos_, who no sooner saw them, but they fled, because a few years before they had been miserably dealt with by the _Spaniards_; but being inform’d by the Interpreters, that they needed not be afraid of any thing, they all appear’d, and conducted _Espejus_ to the Borders of the _Patarabueyes_; which People possess a large Countrey, Stone Houses and Villages built in good order. Great Rivers which come out of the North, and others that disembogu’d into the North Sea, afforded them all sorts of Fish; as also the Woods plenty of Venison, Fowls, and wholsom Plants. In some Pools also the salt Water afforded Salt. The Valour of the Inhabitants may sufficiently appear by the rough Entertainment which the _Spaniards_ met withall the first Night; for the _Patarabueyes_ fell so fiercely upon them, that had not the Watch given notice thereof in time, none had escap’d with Life; nevertheless five Horses were kill’d, and a considerable number of Men wounded: after which retreating, they went upon a neighboring Hill, whither _Espejus_ sent his Interpreter, and an _Indian_ the same Countrey, to inform them, That the _Spaniards_ came not to molest them, and if they pleas’d to come to them, they should meet with none but Friends; which was the more easily credited, because the _Casiques_ receiv’d some Presents; after which being reconciled, they conducted the _Spaniards_ twelve days Journey up a long River, whose Banks were inhabited in several places. From thence they reach’d to a Place, inhabited by a People richly Cloth’d, who also seem’d to have some knowledge of God; for in their Discourse they pointed up to Heaven, call’d the Creator and Preserver of all things _Apalito_, and signifi’d that they had receiv’d that Knowledge formerly from those that were left of _Pamphilius Narvaez_’s Army, who having rang’d through _Florida_ were driven hither. These People also Presented _Espejus_ many tann’d Skins, with which he went to a great Village, the Inhabitants whereof were very courteous, and barter’d them for brave Plumes of Feathers and Cotton Cloaks, streak’d with blue and white: but _Espejus_ having no Interpreters whom they could understand, could not learn by what Name they were known; yet by signs they express’d what time of the year they had Precious Stones brought to them; and also what their Countrey produced; and also that abundance of those Riches was to be found in a Province about five days Journey Westward from thence, whither they freely offer’d to conduct the _Spaniards_, which accordingly they did, bearing them company one and twenty Leagues to the next Province, inhabited by a People whose Name also they could not be inform’d of, yet staying three days amongst them, they were Entertain’d with Presents and Dances both Night and Day. The Countrey afforded them also store of Venison and Fruits: Those that understood Minerals, judg’d that there were likewise several Gold Mines. Leaving this Province, they entred into a great Wilderness of Pine-Trees, in which they travell’d twelve Leagues in fifteen days, without seeing either Man or House; but at the end of the Wood they spy’d a Village of Straw Huts, where there were great quantities of white Salt, and Deer Skins neatly dress’d. The People of the Place courteously Entertain’d the _Spaniards_, and conducted them along the River _Del Norte_, to _New Mexico_: The Banks of the River on each side was planted with Nut-Trees and Vines, which spread themselves out above three Leagues; through which they had scarce pass’d three days together, when they saw ten populous Villages pleasantly seated on the said River, from whence came many thousands of the Natives to meet _Espejus_, who was not so much amaz’d at the great number of People, as at their extraordinary Civility and decent Habits; for they Entertain’d him with well dress’d Meat, roasted Poultrey, and pleasant Fruits: Their Garments were Cotton Cloaks, Deer-skin Breeches, Shoes and Boots of good Leather. The Women wore their Hair neatly Comb’d and Pleited. Their Houses were almost four Stories high, handsomely built, and divided into fair Chambers, had Stoves or Cells under Ground against the Cold in the Winter. Every Village was Govern’d by a _Casique_, whose Commands were publish’d by the _Alguaziles_. Each House had a peculiar place in which their Idol stood, before whom they set Meat twice a day. Near the High-ways stood Temples very curiously painted, wherein their Deity, as they say, diverted himself in his Progress from one Village to another. At certain Distances near their Plough’d Lands, stood _Portico_’s, supported on four Columns, under which the Husband-man us’d to eat, and take his Noon-sleep. Besides their Swords, which were strong enough to cut a Man through the Middle, they us’d Bowes and Arrows: Their Shields were made of Deer Skins. _Espejus_ having stay’d here four days, went to the Province _De las Tiguas_, which had sixteen Villages; in the chiefest whereof, call’d _Poala_, _Augustine Ruyz_ and his Brother Monk _Franciscus de Lopez_ had been slain, besides four others; wherefore the People being conscious of this Crime, and fearing that Revenge would follow, fled to the Mountains, from whence they could not be enticed, whilst the _Spaniards_ found their Houses full of Provisions and some Minerals. Now those being dead whom they sought for, some thought it convenient to return; but _Espejus_ and _Beltran_ perswaded the contrary, alledging, That farther up, according to the _Indians_ information, lay several Provinces which were worth the discovery, and advis’d that the chiefest part of their Forces might stay there, whilst they and some few resolute Men went farther upon the Discovery, which accordingly was perform’d. _Espejus_ having travell’d two days, came into a fruitful Province, jutting against _Cibola_, in which he found eleven Villages, inhabited by above fourteen thousand People, who were clad in Skins and Cotton, worshipp’d many Idols, and receiv’d the _Spaniards_ with great Civility. The like Entertainment they met withall in the Countrey _Los Quires_, wash’d by the River _Del Norte_; near which stood five Villages, inhabited by about fifteen thousand People. Thirteen Leagues farther they found _De los Cunames_, having also five Villages, the chiefest of which being _Cia_, boasted (as above mention’d) eight Market-places: The Houses, made of Lime, were neatly Painted, and compris’d in all above twenty thousand Persons, all civil People, who presented _Espejus_ and his Company with handsom Cloaks, set good boyl’d Meat before them, and shew’d them rich Minerals, and the Mountains out of which they got the same. Of the like Constitution were the Inhabitants _De los Amires_, which being thirty thousand in number, resided in seven well built Villages, lying North-West from _Cunames_. After this they march’d Westward, and found the eminent Village _Acoma_, mention’d before, built on an exceeding high Rock, to which led onely a narrow Path up a pair of Stairs cut in the Rock; as also many Wells to receive Rain, besides what they have out of a River, led by Moats round about their Plough’d Lands. The _Spaniards_ staying here three days, were Entertain’d with all sorts of good Meat, Dances and Drolls. From hence travelling twenty four Leagues more Westerly, they entred the Province of _Zuny_; where the erected Crosses which had remain’d there till that time, were sufficient testimonies of _Cornaro_’s having been there, after he was deserted by _Andreas de Cuyocan_. _Casper de Mexico_, and _Antonius de Guadalajara_, being setled on _Zuny_, (otherwise call’d _Cibola_) and speaking the _Indian_ Tongue better than their Native Language, inform’d _Espejus_, that sixty days Journey farther lay a great Lake, whose Shores were crown’d with many brave Villages, inhabited by a People which wore Golden Armlets and Ear-rings; whither _Franciscus Vasquez_ had gone a second time, had not Death prevented him. This Information so encourag’d _Espejus_, that notwithstanding it was so great a Journey, yet he resolv’d to venture thither, though the Monk _Beltran_ and most of his Company perswaded him to the contrary; whereupon _Beltran_ return’d: After which _Espejus_ went on to the said Lake; whither he was accompanied with a hundred and fifty _Indians_. Having gone twenty six Leagues, he found a populous Province, whose Borders he no sooner approach’d, but he was told, _That if he was willing to lose his Life, he and his Party might enter into a forbidden Dominion_; yet notwithstanding this threatning Message, he wrought so much upon the _Casique_ by the Presents which he sent him, that he was permitted to come in freely; nay, the Inhabitants of _Zaguato_ strow’d Meal on the Earth for the _Spaniards_ to go over, and presented _Espejus_ at his departure with forty thousand Cotton Cloaks, and a considerable quantity of Plate, which he sent with five of his Soldiers, and all the _Cibolan Indians_, back to _Cibola_, keeping onely four Companions and one Guide, with whom he travell’d forty one Leagues Westward; where he found a Mountain, to the top whereof led a broad Path; which ascending, he took up Silver Oar with his own Hand. The several sorts of People that inhabited here were all civil and courteous, living in good fashion, in pretty large Houses, built on the Banks of a pleasant River, shaded with Vines and Nut-Trees, and thick planted with Flax: They inform’d _Espejus_, that near a River which runs eight Miles towards the North Sea, were such stately Palaces, as could not be beheld without great admiration. But _Espejus_ going back a plain Road to _Cibola_, found not onely those whom he had sent from _Zaguato_, but also _Beltran_, with the other Soldiers, who having been detained there by the Civilities and kind Entertainments of the _Indians_, were now upon returning home; so that _Espejus_ was left alone with eight Soldiers, who resolv’d to venture their Lives and Fortunes with him. They travell’d along the River _Del Norte_, through the Provinces _De los Guires_ and _Habutas_, whose Mountains, over-spread with Pine-Trees and Cedars, have many rich Mines. The Natives wore painted Cotton Cloaks, and dwelt in stately Houses five Stories high. At the Borders of the Realm _Los Tamos_ they were stopt, and not permitted to come on farther; wherefore being but few in number, and several of them sick, they judg’d it convenient to cross the River _De las Vaccas_ (so call’d from the abundance of Cows that were thereabouts) to the River _Conchos_ and the Village _Bartholomew_, where _Espejus_ was inform’d, that _Beltran_ was long before his arrival gone to _Guadiana_. And now that we may have the better Account of _New Mexico_ (which _Ruyz_, _Espejus_, and _Beltran_ endeavor’d to discover) it will be necessary to begin with the first original thereof, according as several ancient Histories make mention. [Sidenote: First original of the _New Mexicans_.] The most ancient Possessors of that part of _Northern America_ call’d _New Spain_, were for their fierce and salvage Nature call’d _Chichimecæ_, who dwelling in Caves, fed on Moles, Rabbets, Hedghogs, Serpents, Roots and Herbs. Whilst the Women accompanied their Husbands in their Travels, the Children were put into Baskets, and hang’d in a Tree. No manner of Government was to be found amongst them. They never Till’d their Ground till the _Navatlacans_ came from _New Mexico_ (which was anciently divided into two Countreys, _Aztlan_ and _Teuculhuacan_) to _New Spain_; after which they Sow’d their Lands. The _Navatlacans_ (who us’d to dwell in Houses, worship Images, plough their Lands, and obey their Governors) were divided into six Tribes, each Tribe possessing their limited Bounds: and there goes a Tradition, That out of six Pits that are to be seen in _New Mexico_, the _Navatlacans_ had their original. The time when they deserted _New Mexico_, as their most authentick Histories or Records declare, was (according to our computation) _Anno 940._ and they farther affirm, that they spent forty years in a Journey, which might have been travell’d in a Moneth: The reason of which tediousness was, because they rested in all places where they found a fruitful Countrey; but as they had advice from their diabolical Spirits, which (as they say) appear’d visibly to them, they still went on farther and farther, yet left behind those that were aged, sick, and decrepid, building convenient Houses for them, and appointing Overseers to look after them. The Ruins of the Houses are yet to be seen on the Way along which they pass’d. The six Tribes divided themselves after this manner: Four of them setled round about the great Lake of _Mexico_. The _Sichumilans_ taking the South part, built, besides two other Towns, a Metropolis of their own Name, as the _Chalcans_ on the North. The _Tapunecans_ built _Azcapuzalco_ in the West, which signifies _A Pismires Hole_, because of the abundance of Inhabitants. The Eastern part was taken up by the _Chalhuans_. And all these Names have a peculiar signification; the first signifies _People of Flowry Fields_; the second, _People of Mouthes_; the third, _People of Bridges_; and the fourth, _Crooked People_. Not long after, the _Tatluicans_, a strong People, went over the Mountains on the other side of the _Mexican_ Lake, where they built several Towns on a hot, yet fruitful Soil, the chiefest whereof they call’d _Quahunachua_, that is, _A Place where an Eagles Voice is heard_. The _Tlascaltecans_ went near the Snowy Mountains, one of which, being between _Mexico_ and _De los Angelos_, vomits horrid Flames and Smoke up into the Skie. Here scattering up and down, they built several Villages, besides the City _Tlascalla_; the Inhabitants whereof assisted the _Spaniards_, as hath been related in the taking of _Mexico_, for which good Service they live free, without paying any Tribute. When these six Tribes came first from _Mexico_ thither, the _Chichimecans_ made little or no resistance against them, but hid themselves amongst the Rocks: yet some of them not long after taking courage, flew to Arms, and had without doubt destroy’d the _Tlascallans_, had not a subtile Plot sav’d them: for under a shew of Friendship they falling on the unarm’d _Chichimecans_, kill’d every Man of them. _Joseph de Acosta_ tells us, that _Anno 1586._ he saw a Grave in _Mexico_, wherein a _Chichimecan_ of a Gygantick size lay buried. After this Conquest gotten by the _Tlascallans_, the fore-mention’d six Tribes liv’d in Peace and Quiet, and strengthned themselves the more by Marrying into one anothers Families. The _Chichimecæ_ keeping on the Mountains left the new People in quiet possession of their Lands, nay, learnt some of their Customs, insomuch that they began to build Huts, chuse Governors, and live according to their Laws. [Sidenote: The first March of the _Mexicans_ into _New Spain_.] The _Tlascallans_ having possess’d _New Spain_ three hundred and two years, a seventh Tribe (a valiant and civiliz’d People) came thither, upon their Dæmon _Viztlipuztli_’s promise of having the supream Government: wherefore he was carried in an Ark by four chief Priests, whom he inform’d whither and when they should travel or rest, for where ever they stopt, they built a Tent in the middle of their Army for their Idol, whom they set on an Altar; which done, they Sow’d the Ground about them: yet if their _Dæmon_ commanded them to march before Harvest, then they left the Product to the ancient and sick People. But at last _Mexi_, from whence the Name of _Mexico_ is deriv’d, conducted the Army into _Mechaocan_, where the pleasant Soil among the Lakes entic’d many to take up their Habitation. But _Mexi_ proceeded on his Journey, yet not without great Crosses, in regard _Viztlipuztli_’s Sister (some Inchantress probably so call’d) did much hurt to the whole Army by her Sorceries, because they would not honor her as a Goddess, till _Viztlipuztli_ inform’d one of them that carried the Ark, that the Army should march on, and banish the Witch from them: whereupon she accordingly being driven away, built the Village _Malinalco_, as a Habitation for Conjurers. Mean while, the Army grew weaker and weaker by their leaving so many People behind them in most places; therefore they judg’d it convenient to rest a while in _Tula_, where a great River water’d the Countrey; which, according to _Viztlipuztli_’s Commands, being dry’d up, made a large Lake about the Mountain _Coatepeck_, whose Banks being planted with Willow and Poplar-Trees, were exceeding pleasant, and the more, because of the variety of Birds that made their Nests in the same; which so delighted many of the People, that being tir’d with travelling, they resolv’d to settle there; which Resolution was so ill resented by _Viztlipuztli_, that he commanded the Bank to be broken, that the Water might have liberty to flow its former Course, and threatned them with heavy punishments: after which in the Night a terrible Cry of Murder was heard in one part of the Army; which being inquir’d after the next Morning, they found divers People lying on the Ground with their Breasts cut open, and their Hearts pull’d out: whereupon those that remain’d went onto _Chapultepec_, where they fortifi’d themselves in the Mountains against the adjacent People, which _Copil_, Son to the _Malinalcon_ Witch, had rais’d up against them; and soon after the _Tapunecans_ and _Chalcans_ went against their new Neighbors, with whom they began a bloody Fight, when _Vitzilovitli_, at that time General of the _Mexican_ Army, pressing in amongst them, broke their Ranks, and made way for all his Army (though with his own Death) to march Conquerors to _Culhuacan_: The Prince of which Province gave them a Place to settle on, near the white Water _Ticaapan_, whose Shores swarm’d with Adders and Serpents, upon Design that the Strangers might be destroy’d by them; but it prov’d quite otherwise: for they without regret eat the poysonous Animals; and Dunging the unfruitful Soil, receiv’d a plentiful Harvest: They would willingly have setled here, after their so long ranging up and down, if _Viztlipuztli_ would have approv’d thereof; but he told them, that they must possess themselves by Arms, and make a _Culhuacan_ Maid their Goddess: whereupon they desir’d the _Casique_’s Daughter of _Culhuacan_, who was sent them in rich Ornaments, and with a stately Retinue: But she was no sooner entred on the _Ticaapan_ Shore, but they flay’d her alive, and her Skin being stuff’d, and nam’d _Tocci_, was religiously worshipp’d. But not satisfi’d with this cruelty, they sent for her Father to visit his Daughter in her Dignity; who accordingly coming with great Attendance, was led into a dark Chappel, where by the burning Tapers he knew the Goddess to be no other than his Daughters Skin stuff’d full of Cotton; whereat burning with rage, he afterwards fell upon these Murderers with all his Forces, and drove them to the Place where they afterwards built _Mexico_. [Illustration: _Viztlipuztli idolum Mexicanorum._] We have often made mention heretofore of the Governor of this Journey, _Viztlipuztli_, it will therefore be necessary to give an exacter Description of him, as followeth: [Sidenote: Description of the Image _Viztlipuztli_.] He was a woodden Image like a Man, sitting on a blue Seat in a triumphant Chair; at each end of which was plac’d a Staff with a Serpents Head upon it, from whose Forehead, which was Painted blue, ran a Streak of the same colour, cross his Nose to both his Ears; upon his Head stood a Plume of Feathers, the ends whereof were tipp’d with a golden Varnish; his left Hand held a white Shield, on which stuck five Feathers, and on the top a Laurel Bough; next the Shield lay four Arrows, pretended to be sent from Heaven; in his right Hand a Truncheon, full of blue crooked Streaks like Serpents; behind on his Shoulders appear’d Wings, not unlike those of a Bat, his Eyes large and round, and his Mouth reaching from Ear to Ear, made him terrible to behold, also gaping, and full of Teeth, which stuck out of his Belly; in his Breast also were two fiery Eyes, and under them a shrivell’d Nose; his Feet ended in Claws, hung round about with Precious Jems, golden Boxes and Shields set out with divers colour’d Feathers. The Curtain behind which this Idol sat, was not drawn open except on a Feast-Day. Next _Viztlipuztli_ stood generally a lesser Image, call’d _Tlaboc_, and also the Goddess _Tocci_, Daughter to the Prince of _Culhuacan_, who (as before mention’d) was flay’d by their _Dæmon_’s Command. Since which time they suppos’d, that they were never more acceptable to their Gods, than when they appear’d Cloth’d in another Man’s Skin; and accounted no Offering better, than a Heart taken out of their Enemies Breast, since their Spirit destroy’d so many after that manner in the Army at _Tula_. [Sidenote: _Tocci_’s Festival.] But _Tocci_, they say, had also a Son much inclin’d to Hunting, whose Image they carry, attended by a thousand People, with the sound of Horns and Trumpets, to an Arbor on a high Mountain; which being made of green Leaves pleited, had in the middle an Altar, on which they set the Idol, whilst the Multitude surrounded the Foot of the Mountain, and set all the Bushes about the same on Fire; which done, they shouted and hollow’d, and play’d on several Instruments; which frighting the wild Beasts that lay shelter’d in the Woods, made them run to the top of the Mountain, where they were more and more inclos’d by the People, insomuch that many of them were slain for an Offering before _Tocci_’s Son’s Altar; which done, they carried the Idol back to his Temple, and the People made Merry with the slain Venison. [Sidenote: Description of _Tezcatlipuca_’s Image.] As great Reverence they shew’d to _Tezcatlipuca_, because (as they said) he pardon’d their Sins. This Idol was made of a black shining Stone, richly Apparell’d, having Golden Ear-rings; in his undermost Lip a Silver Sheath, in which stuck sometimes a green, and sometimes a blue Plume of Feathers; his Hair was ty’d with an embroider’d String, at the end of which hung a Golden Ear, whereon Smoak was Painted, signifying the Prayers of oppress’d Sinners; moreover, the String hung full of Pearls, and about the Neck in a String hung a Jewel; on his Breast, as also on his Navel, a green Stone; in his left Hand he held a Fan made of a Gold Plate, in which stuck many colour’d Feathers: this Plate glittering like Glass, was in stead of a Mirrour for _Tezcatlipuca_, to observe all worldly Transactions in the same: and to punish Criminals, he held four Darts in his right Hand. His Feast they kept once in four years. This Idol also had the Command of Hunger, Drought, Famine, and pestilential Distempers; wherefore he had quite another shape, sat on a Stool behind a red Curtain embroider’d with dead Mens Bones and Sculls; his Body Coal black, his Head stuck full of Quails Feathers, a Quiver with four Arrows in his left, and a Rod in his right Hand, which made the Image seem very terrible. The Idol _Quetzalcoalt_, being their Guardian over the Merchants, was plac’d in a high Temple, being shap’d like a Man, his Face onely excepted; for that resembled a Bird’s Head, with a red Bill full of Teeth, a Comb, and a long Tongue; on the hind-part of his Head stood a Mitre, and about his Legs Silk Garters beset with Pearls. [Illustration] CHAP. IX. Cibola, Tontonteac, and Nova Granada. Though the Province of _Zuny_ above-mention’d in the Chapter of _New Mexico_, in the Voyage of _Espejus_, be there otherwise call’d, and appear to be the same with _Cibola_, yet we find it not treated of by any as part of _New Mexico_, but by some as a distinct Province, by others as a part of _California_ largely taken; for besides that _California_, properly so call’d, hath formerly been taken rather for a _Peninsula_ than an Island, and still affords to some an Argument of question, whether it be one or the other. The whole extent of the Province generally so term’d, hath been reputed to comprehend the suppos’d _Peninsula_ it self, _Cibola_, _Quivira_, and _Nova Albion_; but since, according to the best Maps and Discoveries, there seems little doubt to be made, that _California_, strictly taken, is a perfect Island: and since upon that Consideration we have reserved it to be describ’d amongst the Islands of _Northern America_, we also consequently judge it most requisite to consider those Countreys apart that were included in the extended _California_. [Sidenote: Situation, Temperature, and Productions of _Cibola_.] _Cibola_ lieth Southward of _Quivira_, betwixt it and _New Gallicia_, to the North and East: on the West it hath _Mar Vermiglio_, or the Bay of _California_. The Air of the Province is indifferently temperate, especially if compar’d to the sharp Frosts and Colds of _Quivira_. The Countrey is for the most part level and plain, as _Quivira_ is, having but few Trees in it, except here and there some Woods of Cedars, which yet do abundantly supply the Natives both with Timber and Fewel. The Ground affords plenty of _Maiz_, and some small white Pease, of both which they usually make Bread. There is great store of Venison, and a kind of Sheep (as they say, and as it should seem by their Fleece) as big as some little Horses or Oxen, some of their Horns weighing forty or fifty Pound: But perhaps by some mistake of Authors, this Beast may be no other than _Taurus Mexicanus_, elsewhere describ’d, whose Hair is extreamly thick and shaggy, and of which they make Cloth as of Wool, as hath been said. There are also Lyons, Bears, and Tygers in this Province, in such numbers, that the People of the Countrey are not a little troubled with them, and would gladly destroy them if they knew how. The People are generally well Limb’d, tall of Stature, and seem to be a little more Ingenious than their Neighbors of _Quivira_; yet they go naked many of them, onely cover’d with Mantles made of Skins, which are many times painted, and that with such Curiosity and Art, as do sufficiently argue, that neither themselves nor their Neighbors of _Quivira_, from whom they have them in Traffick, do make them, but that they are the Merchandise and Commodity of some other Nations, perhaps of _Cathay_ or _China_, who, by the North-West Seas, do Trade with the Maritime Parts, and People of _Quivira_. This part of the Countrey hath been reasonably well search’d by the _Spaniards_, but as yet nothing discover’d so considerable, as to perswade them to stay in it. That which seems most observable, is the great Lake _Tonteac_, situate almost in the midst of the Province; upon which, or near unto it, they found seven or eight old Towns of the Natives, some whereof contain’d four or five hundred of their Cottages or little Houses, and were fortifi’d also with Ramparts, and other Works of Defence, so as the _Spaniards_ could not become Masters of them, but by Force and Storming: In the attempt whereof _Vasquez Coronado_, their Commander in chief, was twice beaten down with Stones by the Natives; yet at last carrying the Place, he found in it good plenty of _Maiz_ indeed, which was some refreshment to his Army, but nothing else: whereupon having nam’d the Place _Granada_, in memory of the Vice-Roy of _New Spain_, who sent him upon that Expedition, he departed. In his return homeward he fell upon a certain Countrey, which he nam’d _Tucayan_, of which his Companions report great matters; as first, of a certain River call’d _Huex_, on the Banks whereof, in the space of twenty Leagues, or thereabouts, there stand no less than fifteen good Burroughs, well built, and furnish’d likewise with Stoves or Hot-houses, against the Cold, as in other Countreys of _Europe_; as also of a very fruitful and pleasant Valley, which they therefore call’d _Aroba de Corazones_; of another great Town and Territory, call’d _Chichilticala_; and lastly, of the Valley of _Nuestra Sennora_, or _Our Ladies Dale_, in the South parts of the said Territory, all of them describ’d for such rich and delicious Places, that some take them for the _Campi Elisii_ of _America_, especially seeing the _Spaniards_ were never known to visit them a second time, the Discoveries that have been made since being onely of the North-West Parts of the Countrey, along the Coasts of _Mar Vermiglio_, and this no farther than onely to give Name to certain Capes or Promontories which they met with, as namely 1. _Porto de St. Clara_, near to the Mouth of the River which they call _Rio del Nordt_. 2. _Las Playas._ 3. _St. Michael._ 4. _Lago del Oro_, which bordereth on _Quivira_; and lastly, _El Rey Coronado_, Eastward of that. [Sidenote: _Tontonteac._] _Tontonteac_ is mention’d by so few, and by those few so obscurely, that it cannot well be determin’d to be any other than that Countrey which lies about the great Lake _Tonteac_, above spoken of in _Cibola_, and which being made Habitable by six or seven Towns not inconsiderable for Habitations of native _Indians_, might haply pass for a distinct Province. And perhaps the reason why this Province hath been so obscure, and little taken notice of, might be from the ruine of these Towns by War, or some other Accident: and to this purpose are the words of a late Writer, _The Province of_ Tontonteac (saith he) _hath five Houses onely left, which stand on the Shore of a salt Lake_. [Sidenote: _Nova Granada_ a Province of _Northern America_.] _Nova Granada_, besides that it is a generally known and describ’d Province of _Southern America_, is also nam’d amongst the Provinces of _Northern America_, particularly by _Bertius_, _Cluverius_, and _Golnitzius_, and in some late Maps of _America_ so conspicuously specifi’d, that it might appear to be all that Tract of Land which contains both _New Mexico_ and the several Provinces adjoyning to it; but since we find it not describ’d by any at large, it will with most verisimility pass for that part of _New Mexico_ where stands the City of _St. Foy_; and this is most plainly express’d by Monsieur _Martini_, though there are who confound _Cibola_ with _New Granada_. Waving which Decision, we shall onely insert a short Description of the Place, according to _Cornato_, who seems to have been one of the first Discoverers of these Parts, and whose Credit is preferr’d before that of _Marcus de Niza_. [Sidenote: Its Description.] _Nova Granada_ (saith he) consists of seven Villages, built in the circumference of four Leagues, the chiefest whereof boasts two hundred Houses, which for the most part are four or five Stories high, and built of Stone; the Cellars thereto belonging, being neatly Pav’d, serve for Stoves against the Cold: they ascend to their upper Rooms by Ladders. The Inhabitants go naked, onely some Covering about their Middle, and over their Shoulders Cotton Cloaks, painted with divers Colours. They live on _Maiz_, white Pease, Hares, Rabbets, and Venison: their Salt wherewith they season the same, they fetch from a neighboring Lake. The Turkies, which they have in great numbers, are kill’d onely for their Feathers, notwithstanding their Flesh is exceeding good Meat. The Soil is for the most part plain, yet hath some high Mountains; and the Pastures flourish with Grass. The Woods abound with Bears, Tygers, Lyons, wild Hogs, Rhinocerots, and the like ravenous Beasts, which make the Ways dangerous for Travellers. Besides large Deer, there are also Sheep, which in bigness may compare with Horses, having exceeding great Horns, and little Tails. Concerning the abundance of _Turkoises_, of which _Niza_ makes mention, _Cornato_ could give no certain account, because a little before his Arrival the _Granadians_ had convey’d their Children, which were under fifteen, and the aged People, who were above sixty years of age, with their chiefest Goods, into remote places. However, it is not unknown, that this Countrey affords _Turkoises_; for _Cornato_ in his Journey to _Quivira_, Besieg’d a City in these Parts near a great River; the Inhabitants whereof, when they were not able to defend themselves any longer, throwing their Cloaks, _Turkoises_, and other Riches into the Fire, Sallied out upon the _Spaniards_, and died not altogether unreveng’d, as shall be specifi’d more at large in the Description of _Tignes_, which being nam’d among the Towns of _Quivira_, will upon the comparing of Circumstances, be apparently found to be the same with this. Lastly, _New Granada_ hath no Fruit-Trees, but little Cedars fit for Building. [Illustration] CHAP. X. Quivira. _Quivira_ is the next Region accounted of _California_, largely taken; yet appearing by some Charts to lie so vastly remote, that all _New Mexico_, _Gallicia_, and other Provinces already mention’d, lie between that and the Island. And whereas _New Granada_ is by several made a part of _New Mexico_; yet most certain it is, that by some it is confounded with this Countrey, or at least accounted a part thereof, as hereafter shall more plainly appear, according to the Account of those that have most fully and particularly describ’d it. [Sidenote: Situation of _Quivira_, and Description of the Inhabitants.] _Quivira_ takes up the most Northern and unknown part of _America_ towards the West, reaching as far as the supposed _Straight_ of _Anian_ aforesaid (if there be any such) or else joyning to the Continent of _Tartary_. It is likewise the least fruitful of all the _West-Indies_, especially for Corn. Cattel it hath good store, and Pasturage indifferent good, the Countrey being for the most plain and level, and nothing else but Pasturage. The Natives are few and salvage, living in Hoards or great Companies together, after the manner of the _Tartars_, to whom they are Neighbors, and (as it is not improbably thought) of their Race. The Men Clothe themselves most commonly in that kind of Oxes Hide, elsewhere spoken of under the Name of _Taurus Mexicanus_. The Women wear little else but their Hair, notwithstanding the Countrey, especially for one half of the year, is excessive cold. Their Cattel, though they are much less than the ordinary Kine of _Europe_, are the chief Sustenance and Employment of the Natives; by Pasturing huge Herds whereof from place to place, the People live, and maintain a Traffick with other Parts. Yet some of them inhabit Towns, the chief whereof, as yet discover’d, seem to be these which follow: [Sidenote: Towns of chief note.] 1. _Acus_, or _Acuco_, a small Town, but seated in a strong defensible place, and being a great Staple for Cotton, the Territory about it hath been taken for a distinct Province, and by some call’d _The Kingdom of Acuco_. 2. _Tignes_, a Town seated upon the Banks of a River bearing the same Name, and inhabited, it seems, by a stout and resolute People, and whom the _Spaniards_, coming amongst them in the Year 1540. had much ado to master: for they endur’d a Siege for the space of six Weeks; and at last finding themselves so strongly begirt by their Enemies, that there was no means to escape but by Death, or yielding up themselves, rather than they would fall alive into their hands, they first buried and spoil’d all such Treasure as they had (which were chiefly Saphires, and a few other Gems, that the Countrey afforded) and after that setting on fire their Housholdstuff, they took their Wives and Children with them, and made a desperate Sally out upon the _Spaniards_; wherein although they were most of them slain, and trod under the Horses Feet, or drown’d in passing the River, yet was it not without some loss to the _Spaniards_ themselves: nor would those few that were left behind deliver up the Town, till it was fir’d about their Ears, and that they could no longer abide in it. This Town, by all Circumstances, must needs be the same with that before mention’d in _Nova Granada_, which makes good what we have said above, _viz._ That _New Granada_ is by some confounded with, or at least taken for a part of this Region. 3. _Cicuic_, another small Town, four days Journey from _Tignes_. The Countrey about this place, although generally it be all good Pasturage, and maintains abundance of Cattel, yet is it so open and plain, that for almost a hundred Miles together, the _Spaniards_, in their March hither from _New Spain_, found neither Stone nor Tree, nor any thing else that could serve them for a Land-mark; so that they were forc’d, as they march’d along, to raise up Heaps of Cow-dung, to serve them for direction in their coming back, which was not long after: for not finding the Commodities they sought for, and fearing to be surpris’d by Winter in those cold Countreys, where they had no kind of accommodation, they made somewhat a hasty Retreat, leaving behind them onely some few Religious Men, of the Order of _St. Francis_, whose Endeavours to do the People good by Converting them to the true Knowledge and Worship of Almighty God, procur’d them not long after, the Crown of Martyrdom, being murder’d all of them, except one, by the Natives, and he not without much difficulty escaping their Hands. [Sidenote: _Nova Albion._] _Nova Albion_ was so denominated by Sir _Francis Drake_, when he was there Entertain’d by the King of that Countrey; but whether it were in _Quivira_ that he was thus Entertain’d, and left that Denomination, or in the Island of _California_, appears not either from the Relation, or from the common Consent of Cosmographers, since some there are, who will have _Quivira_ and _Nova Albion_ to be one and the same Province; others reckon it to be the utmost North-West part of _California_; others make it distinct from _Quivira_, yet determine it not to the Island _California_, seeming rather to make it an adjoyning Countrey to _Quivira_: wherefore finding little else that concerns the Description of the Place, except the said Voyage of _Drake_, we shall here set it down, and leave the farther Disquisition concerning the Situation of the Place, till we come to describe the Island of _California_ it self. [Sidenote: Sir _Francis Drake_’s Arrival there.] Captain _Francis Drake_ set Sail from _Plymouth_ _Anno 1577._ and after much hardship getting through the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, arriv’d in the Haven _Guatulco_, having before his coming thither taken as many rich _Spanish_ Ships in the Southern Ocean as he could possibly have wish’d for, so that his onely care now needed to have been how to get safe home; yet he put on a Resolution, not to come short of _Ferdinandus Magellanus_, who Saild about the World. Which brave Resolution of _Drake_’s was approv’d of by all his Sea-men; whereupon he set Sail along the North of _California_ the fifth of _June_; being gotten into forty two Degrees, which was the farthest that _Cabrillo_ went, he came on a sudden out of a warm Air into so frigid a Climate, that the Sea-men were almost kill’d with Cold, and the farther they went, the colder it grew; wherefore falling down three Degrees more Southerly, they got into a convenient Haven, where the Natives who liv’d along the Shore brought them Presents; which _Drake_ left not unrequited, by returning them others, that were to them more novel, and not unuseful. [Sidenote: Nature and Habit of the People.] These People are exceeding hardy; for, notwithstanding the extraordinary coldness of the Climate, the Men go naked; but the Women wear Garments of pleited Flags or Rushes, which being put about their Middle, hang down to their Ancles; on their Stomachs hang the ends of a hairy Skin ty’d together, which hanging also over their Shoulders, cover their hinder Parts. They shew great Respect and Obedience to their Husbands. Each House is surrounded with an Earthen Wall, and all the Corners thereof being close stopp’d, and Fires made in the midst of them, they are very warm. Rushes and Flags strow’d thick on the Ground near the Walls, serve them in stead of Beds. The _Indians_ coming a second time to Visit the _English_, brought them Plumes of Feathers, Neckbands of Net-work, and store of Tobacco: _Drake_ pleas’d with this their kindness, built Tents on the Brow of a Hill, on the top of which the _Indians_ stood that brought the Presents, whil’st one of them with a loud voice maintain’d a long Discourse; which he had no sooner ended, but every one laid down his Bowe and Arrows, and walk’d unarm’d down to the Tents to proffer their Gifts: their Wives staying behind on the top, pinch’d their Cheeks, and made sad lamentation; which _Drake_ suppos’d was because they made Offerings there: whereupon he also caus’d all his Men to kneel down and say their Prayers, which made the _Indians_ to look very earnestly upon them, and to return him the Presents which the day before they had receiv’d of him. [Illustration] [Sidenote: _Drake_’s Entertainment by the King of the Countrey.] The rumour of these Strangers arrival spreading all over the Countrey, made the Inhabitants far and near desirous to see them; the King himself sending Ambassadors to _Drake_, to inform him that he was on the Way coming to see him; all which the Agents related at large, and desir’d some Presents, as a testimony that their King should be welcome; which he being assur’d of, came with a Retinue of above twelve thousand Men, before whom walk’d one of a Gygantick size, carrying a costly Scepter, on which, by three long Chains made of Bones, hung a great and a small Crown made of Feathers; next follow’d the King himself in a Sute of Cony-Skins; then came a great confus’d company of People, each of them carrying a Present: whereupon _Drake_ putting his Men into good order, march’d to meet the King; at which the Mace-bearer made a long Preamble, and when he had done, Danc’d to the Tune of a Song, which he Sung himself; then the King and his whole Retinue also fell a Singing and Dancing so long, till being weary the King went to _Drake_, and humbly desir’d of him, that he would accept of the Realm, assuring him, that all the People should be under his Obedience; which said, he put the fore-mention’d Crown on his Head, and hanging three double Chains about his Neck, call’d him _Hioh_: whereupon _Drake_ took possession of the Countrey in Queen _Elizabeths_ Name. The King staying alone with _Drake_, his Retinue went amongst the _English_, every one looking very earnestly upon them, and to those whom they lik’d best, being the youngest, they falling down and crying, proffer’d Offerings, as to Gods, and held their Cheeks to draw Blood out of them; which the _English_ refusing, they desisted; but shew’d them great Wounds, and desir’d some Plaisters of them, which they suppli’d them with. [Sidenote: A Monument erected by _Drake_ before his departure.] The _English_ going up into the Countrey found the same well grown with Woods, which abounded with Coneys, whose Heads differ’d little from the _European_, but having Feet like Moles, long Tails like Rats, and in their Sides a Bag, wherein when they had fill’d their Bellies they put the remainder. They also saw numerous Herds of Deer, with whose Flesh having been courteously Entertain’d in several Villages, they return’d to the Fleet. _Drake_, just before he weighed Anchor, caus’d a pillar to be set in the Ground with a Silver Plate on the same, with an Inscription, mentioning the Day of his Arrival, Name and Arms of Queen _Elizabeth_, and free delivering of that Realm to him by the _Indians_: he also nail’d a Sixpence with the Queens Effigies on the Plate, under which he caus’d his own Name to be Engraven. [Illustration] THE ISLANDS OF Northern America. CHAP. XI. _Terra Nova_, or _New-found Land_, with the Island of _Assumption_. Having treated at large of all the several Regions and Provinces of the North part of the Continent of _America_, we come now to those Islands that lie within the same Degrees of Northern Latitude with that part of the Continent: The first is _Terre Neuve_, or _New-found_ Land, discover’d together with several other Parts upon the Continent before mention’d by Sir _Sebastian Cabott_, by the Countenance and Charge of King _Henry_ the Seventh of _England_; whereupon a rightful Claim thereunto, and Interest therein, hath been own’d by the succeeding Kings of _England_, as hereafter shall be more particularly related. [Sidenote: Situation and Bounds of _New-found Land_.] _New-found Land_ is situated betwixt the Degrees of forty six and fifty three of Northern Latitude, and is divided from the Continent of _America_ by an Arm of the Sea, in like distance as _England_ is from _France_. The Island is as large as _England_ in length, greater in breadth, and lies near the Course that Ships usually hold in their Return from the _West-Indies_, and is near the mid-way between _Ireland_ and _Virginia_. [Illustration: INSULÆ AMERICANÆ IN OCEANO SEPTENTRIONALI, cum Terris adiacentibus.] [Sidenote: Temperature.] We shall not much need to commend the wholsom temperature of this Countrey, seeing the greatest part thereof lieth above three Degrees nearer to the South, than any part of _England_ doth, so that even in the Winter it is pleasant and healthful as _England_ is. [Sidenote: Nature of the Inhabitants.] The natural Inhabitants of the Countrey, as they are but few in number, so are they something a rude and salvage People, having neither knowledge of God, nor living under any kind of Civil Government. In their Habits, Customs, and Manners, they resemble the _Indians_ of the Continent, from whence it is to be suppos’d they come; they live altogether in the North and West part of the Countrey, which is seldom frequented by the _English_; but the _French_ and _Biscainers_ (who resort thither yearly for the Whale-fishing, and also for the Cod-fish) report them to be an ingenuous and tractable People (being well us’d) and very ready to assist them with great labour and patience, in the killing, cutting, and boyling of Whales, and making the Trayn-Oyl, without expectation of other Reward than a little Bread, or some such small Hire. [Sidenote: Commodious Harbors.] It hath the most commodious Harbours in the World, and the most safe Seas to Sail to it, there being not any Islands, Rocks or Sands between the _Lands-End_ in _England_ and _New-found Land_, and for the most part it is not above three or four Weeks Sail thither, and less coming back; and is the most commodiously situated for the discovering of the North-West Passage, and other Inlets into the South Sea; whereby the ordinary Voyages to _China_, _Japan_, and the _East-Indies_, are much eas’d in the expence of Time and Charge; and the most open to Trade to all Parts, of any Island of the _West-Indies_. On the East side of the Land, are the Bays of _Trinity_ and _Conception_, which stretch themselves towards the South-West. _Tor-Bay_ and _Capelin-Bay_ lying also on the East, stretch themselves towards the West. The Bays of _Trespassey_, _St. Mary_, _Borrel_, and _Plaisance_, on the South part of the Land, extend their Arms towards the North. The great Bay of _St. Peters_ lying on the South-West side of the Land, and Southerly from the great River of _Canada_, being about twenty Leagues distant, the same stretcheth toward the East. _Trinity_ Harbour lies in near forty nine Degrees of North Latitude, being very commodiously seated to receive Shipping in seasonable Weather, both to Anchor in, and from thence to Sail towards either the East, West, or South. It hath three Arms or Rivers, long and large enough for many hundred Sail of Ships to moare fast at Anchor near a Mile from the Harbours Mouth. Close adjoyning to the Rivers side, and within the Harbour, is much open Land, well stor’d with Grass sufficient, Winter and Summer, to maintain great store of ordinary Cattel, besides Hogs and Goats, if such Beasts were carried thither; and it standeth North most of any Harbor in the Land, where our Nation practiseth Fishing: It is near unto a great Bay lying on the North side of it, call’d _The Bay of Flowers_; to which Place no Ships repair to Fish, in regard of sundry Rocks and Ledges lying even with the Water, and full of danger. The bottom of the Bay of _Trinity_ lieth within four Leagues through the Land South-West, Southerly from _Trinity_, as by experience is found; and it comes near unto the Bay of _Trespassey_, and the bottom of some other Bays. _Trespassey_ in like manner is as commodious a Harbour, lying in a more temperate Climate, almost in forty six Degrees of North Latitude, and is both fair and pleasant, and a wholsom Coast free from Rocks and Shelves; so that of all other Harbours it lies the most South of any in the Land, and most conveniently to receive our Shipping, passing to and from _Virginia_ and the _Bermuda_ Islands; and also any other Shipping that shall pass to and from the River of _Canada_, and the Coast thereof, because they usually pass, and so return in the sight of the Land of _Trespassey_, and also for some other purposes, as shall be partly declar’d in the following Discourse. [Sidenote: Fruitful Soil.] The Soil of this Countrey in the Valleys and sides of the Mountains is so fruitful, as that in divers places the Summer naturally produceth without Tillage, great plenty of green Pease, and Fitches, fair, round, full, and as wholsom as ours in _England_. [Sidenote: Berries and Fruits.] Of Berries and Fruits, there grows Strawberries, red and white, and as fair Raspice-berries and Goose-berries as there be in _England_; as also Bilberries, which are call’d by some _Whortes_, and many other delicate Berries peculiar to the Countrey, in great abundance. Likewise small Pears, Cherries, Filberds, _&c._ [Sidenote: Herbs and Flowers.] There are also Herbs for Sallets and Broth, as Parsly, Alexander, Sorrel, _&c._ and also Flowers, as the red and white Damask Rose, with other kinds, which are most beautiful and delightful, both to the sight and smell. And questionless, the Countrey is stor’d with many Physical Herbs, though their Vertues are not known. When Corn was first Sow’n here, it was observ’d to grow very fair, the increase was great, and the Grain very good; and several sorts of Kitchin Plants that have been Set here, have prov’d very well. [Sidenote: Beasts.] In divers parts of the Countrey there is great store of Deer, and some Hares, many Foxes, Squerrils, Beavers, Martins and Otters, yielding excellent Furrs, Wolves and Bears, with other sorts of Beasts, serving as well for Necessity, as for Profit and Delight. [Sidenote: Birds.] Variety both of Land and Water-Fowl is in this Countrey infinite: The chief Land-Fowl, besides a great number of small Birds, that live by scraping their Food from the Earth in the hardest Winter, are Hawks, great and small Partridges, Thrush, and Thrussels abundance, very fat; as also Filladies, Nightingales, and such like, which sing most pleasantly. There are also Birds that live by prey, as Ravens, Gripes, Crows, _&c._ For Water-Fowl, there is certainly so good, and as much variety, as in any part of the World, as Geese, Ducks, Pigeons, Gulls, Penguins, and many other sorts. These Penguins are as big as Geese, but do not flye, for they have but a little short Wing; and they multiply so infinitely upon a certain flat Island, that men drive them from thence upon a Board into their Boats by hundreds at a time, as if God had made the innocency of so poor a Creature to become such an admirable Instrument for the sustentation of Man: And also Godwits, Curlews, and such like; which Fowl do not onely serve those that Trade thither for Food, but also they are a great furthering to divers Ships Voyages, because the abundance of them is such, that the Fisher-men do bait their Hooks with the quarters of Sea-Fowl on them; and therewith some Ships do yearly take a great part of their Fishing Voyages with such Bait, before they can get others. [Sidenote: Springs.] The fresh Waters and Springs of that Countrey are many in number, and withall so very pleasant, delightful and wholsom, that no Countrey in the World hath better: And Fewel for Fireing, no where more plentiful. [Sidenote: Trees.] In like manner there is great abundance of Trees fit to be employ’d in other serviceable uses: There are Fir and Spruce-Trees, sound, good, and fit to Mast Ships with, and as commodious for Boards and Buildings as those of _Norway_; and out of these come abundance of Turpentine. Moreover the Pine and Birch-Trees here are scarce to be compar’d for heighth and greatness. The Rivers also and Harbours are generally stor’d with delicate Fish, as Salmons, Peals, Eels, Herrings, Mackrel, Flounders, Launce, Capelin, Cod, and Trouts, the fairest, fattest and sweetest, that ever were seen in these Parts. The like for Lobsters, Cra-fish, Mussles, and other variety of Shell-fish. The Seas likewise all along the Coast, do plentifully abound in other sorts of Fish, as Whales, _Spanish_ Mackrel, Dorrel, Pales, Herrings, Hogs, Porposes, Seals, and such like Royal Fish, _&c._ But the chief Commodity of _New found Land_ yet known, and which is grown to be a setled Trade, and that it may be much better’d by an ordinary Plantation there, (if the Traders thither will take some better course than formerly they have done, as shall be declared) is the Cod-fishing upon that Coast, by which our Nation and many other Countreys are enrich’d. Almost incredible is the benefit of the Fish, which the _French_, _Biscainers_, and _Portuguese_ fetch yearly from this Coast of _New-found Land_, and the _Bank_, which lieth within twenty five Leagues from the South Cape of that Countrey, where the _French_ use to Fish Winter and Summer, usually making two Voyages every year thither. To which Places, and to the Coast of _Canada_, which lieth near unto it, are yearly sent from those Countreys, more than four hundred Sail of Ships. This Island of _Terra Nova_ belongs properly and justly to the Crown of _England_, having been under the sole Jurisdiction of the _English_ from the first Discovery thereof, which was by Sir _Sebastian Cabot_, Employ’d by King _Henry_ the Seventh, to find out some other part of _America_, than what had been discover’d by _Columbus_, as hath been above declar’d in several places. Afterwards King _Henry_ the Eighth continu’d the _English_ Interest there, and Employ’d one _Rutt_ into that Island, in order to the Plantation thereof. Queen _Elizabeth_ no less careful to preserve that Plantation, sent Sir _Humphrey Gilbert_, a _Devonshire_ Knight, to plant a Colony there, the better to secure the same, and to increase Trading there; and accordingly the said Sir _Humphrey_ with two good Ships and a Pinnace in her Name, took possession of that Countrey, in the Harbour of _St. Johns_. He Sail’d from thence towards _Virginia_, and by reason of some unhappy direction in his Course, the greatest Ship he had struck upon Shelves on the Coast of _Canada_, and was there lost, with most part of the Company in her; and he himself, being then in a small Pinnace of twenty Tun, in the company of his Vice-Admiral (Captain _Hays_) returning towards _England_, in a great Storm, was overwhelm’d in the Sea, and so perish’d. In the Year 1608. it was undertaken anew by _John Guy_, a Merchant of _Bristol_, and with so good success, that the Colony in a short time were well furnish’d with Wheat, Rye, Barley, and other Grain of their own Sowing, with Turnips, Coleworts, and abundance of other necessary things, not without some probable hopes of Metals, a certain and plentiful Trade of Sables, Musk, and other rich Commodities. [Sidenote: The Province of _Avalon_ in _New-found Land_.] In the Year 1620. Sir _George Calvert_ Knight, then principal Secretary of State, and a Privy Councellor to King _James_ the First of _England_, &c. purchas’d a part of _New-found Land_, which was afterwards in the Year 1623. granted to him and his Heirs by Patent from the said King, under the Great Seal of _England_, bearing Date the seventh of _April_, in the One and twentieth Year of his Reign: by which means the said Tract of Land was erected into a Province, and at the Instance of the said Sir _George Calvert_, call’d _Avalon_, from _Avalon_ in _Sommerset-shire_, where _Christianity_ was first Planted in England. This Province lies in the forty seventh Degree of Northern Latitude, and is thus bounded: It begins Southerly from the middle part of a certain Neck of Land or Promontory, situate between the two Harbours, _Fermose_ and _Aquafort_; and from thence following the Shore towards the North unto the middle part, or half way over a little Harbour, call’d in that regard _Petit Port_, or _Petit Harbour_, which boundeth upon the South part of the Plantation of _St. Johns_, including the one half of a certain fresh River, that falleth into the said Port of _Petit Harbour_; and so tending along the South Border of the said Colony of _St. Johns_, extendeth it self to a certain little Bay, commonly call’d _Salmon Cove_, lying on the South side of the Bay of _Conception_, including the one half of the River that falleth into the said _Cove_, as also one half of the _Cove_ it self; from whence passing along the Shore of the said Bay towards the South, and reaching unto the bottom thereof, where it meets with the Lands of the fore-mention’d _John Guy_, nam’d _Sea-Forrest_, is bounded with a certain River or Brook, which there falleth into the Sea, and from the Mouth of the said Brook ascendeth unto the farthest Spring or Head thereof; from thence passing towards the South for six Miles together along the Borders of the said _John Guy_’s Plantation, and there crossing over Westward in a right Line, reacheth unto the Bay of _Placentia_, and the space of one League within the said Bay from the Shore thereof; whence turning again towards the South, passeth along the Harbour of _Placentia_, with the like distance from the Shore, and descending unto _New Falkland_ towards the North and West part thereof, stretcheth it self in a right Line Eastward, continuing the whole Southerly length upon the Bounds of the said _New Falkland_, unto the middle part or Point of the Promontory, or Neck of Land before mention’d, between the Ports _Fermose_ and _Aquafort_; at which place is describ’d and finish’d the Perambulation of the whole Precinct, whose Extent may be thus computed, commencing from the Promontory between the Ports _Fermose_ and _Aquafort_, which is fifty or sixty Miles from South to North distant from _Petit Harbour_; from whence crossing Westward to the Bay of _Placentia_, is judg’d to be sixty Miles more or upwards, from East to West. And thereby was also granted to the said Sir _George Calvert_ and his Heirs, all Islands and Islets, within ten Leagues of the Eastern Shore of the said Region towards the East, together with the Fishing of all sorts of Fish, saving unto the _English_ free liberty of Fishing, as well in the Seas as in the Ports and Creeks of the Province aforesaid, and the Priviledges of salting and drying their Fish upon the Shores of the said Province, as heretofore they reasonably us’d and enjoy’d the same, so as they do no injury or notable loss or detriment unto the Lord Proprietary, his Heirs and Assigns, or to the Inhabitants of the said Province, in the Ports, Creeks, and Shores aforesaid, and especially in the Woods growing within the said Province. And by the said Patent all Royal Jurisdictions and Prerogatives, both Military and Civil, within the said Province and Islands thereunto belonging, were farther granted to the said Sir _George Calvert_ and his Heirs, and he and they thereby created the true and absolute Lords and Proprietaries of the said Province, saving the Allegiance due to His Majesty, His Heirs and Successors, to be held of them in _Capite_, yielding and paying unto them therefore a white Horse, when, and as often as any of them shall come into the said Province, and the fifth part of all Gold and Silver Oar which should be found there. Sir _George Calvert_, before the obtaining of this Patent, had caus’d a fair House and Fort to be built in the said Province, at a place call’d _Ferryland_, and in the Year 1624. having obtain’d a Dismission from his Employment of Secretary of State, and being then created Lord _Baltemore_ of _Baltemore_ in _Ireland_, he did in the Year 1627. Transport himself to _Avalon_, to inspect his Concerns there in Person; from whence returning the same year, he Embarqu’d himself again, together with his Lady and all his Family, except his eldest Son, for _Avalon_ the year following; at which time (there being then War between _England_ and _France_) he redeem’d above twenty Sail of _English_ Ships, which had been taken there that year by _French_ Men of War, whereof one Monsieur _De la Rade_ had the chief Command, and shortly after took six _French_ Fishing-Ships upon that Coast, and sent them the same year, with a great many _French_-men Prisoners, into _England_. Coming thence, he left a Deputy there, and continu’d the Plantation till his Death, which was in _April 1632._ After whose Decease it descended of right to his Son and Heir _Cecil_, now Lord _Baltemore_; who thereupon sent one Captain _William Hill_ as his Deputy thither, to take possession thereof, and to manage his Interest there for him. Captain _Hill_, according to his Commission, shortly after repair’d thither, and liv’d some years at the Lord _Baltemore_’s House at _Ferryland_ above mention’d. In the thirteenth Year of King _Charles_ the First, of _England_, &c. about the Year of our Lord 1638. Marquess _Hamilton_, Earl of _Pembroke_, Sir _David Kirk_, and others, under pretence that the Lord _Baltemore_ had deserted that Plantation, obtain’d a Patent of all _New-found Land_, wherein _Avalon_ was included, and shortly after dispossess’d the Lord _Baltemore_ of his Mansion House in _Ferryland_, and other Rights there, and during the late Rebellion in _England_ kept possession; but His now Majesty King _Charles_ the Second, immediately after his most happy Restauration in the Year 1660, upon the now Lord _Baltemore_’s Petition, thought fit to refer the whole Matter to be Examin’d by Sir _Orlando Bridgeman_, then Lord-Chief-Justice, now Lord Keeper of the Great Seal of _England_, and others, to report the true state thereof to His Majesty, together with their Opinions thereupon: The Referrees accordingly, upon full hearing of Council on both sides, certifi’d, That they conceiv’d the said Patent to Sir _George Calvert_, to be a good Patent, in force, and not avoided by the later to Sir _David Kirk_ and others; and that the Title and Interest to the said Province did therefore belong to the Lord _Baltemore_. Whereupon His Majesty, on the twentieth of _March_ in the same Year, Order’d the Possession thereof to be re-deliver’d to his Lordship, which was accordingly executed: Since which time his Lordship has peaceably enjoy’d the possession thereof, and continues the Plantation to this day, by deputing Lieutenants there from time to time, for the better Government of that Province, the rest of _New-found Land_ remaining still to the aforesaid Proprietors, claiming by the Patent of 13 _Car._ 1. The Commodities that are either by Art or Nature produc’d there, are the same with those of the remainder of _New-found Land_. The Winter there is extream cold, the Summer very hot, but withal pleasant; and during that Season there is great plenty of Pasture for Cattel. The Coast of this Province is very safe, and as well furnish’d with variety of bold and pleasant Harbors, as any other part of _New-found Land_; where the _English_ likewise Fish for Cod, the lesser sort whereof is call’d _Poor-John_, which is there caught in great abundance, especially at _Ferryland_, and in the _Bay of Bulls_. Besides these two there are divers other excellent Harbors on the Eastern Shore of _Avalon_, as _Capling Bay_, _Cape Broyle_, _Brittus_, _Isle of Spears_, _Barrom Cove_, _Whitburns Bay_, and _Petit Harbour_ above mention’d. On the West are the Bay of _Placentia_, and several other good Harbors. There are no _Indians_ in _Avalon_, and but few _English_, by reason of the excessive Cold in Winter, though Sir _David Kirk_ and his Lady, and also his Family, liv’d in the Lord _Baltemore_’s House at _Ferryland_ for the space of ten years and upwards. The Soil seems to promise great store of Mines, which probably may in time be discover’d. The late Lord _Baltemore_ took accidentally a piece of Oar up that lay there upon the surface of the Earth, and brought it with him into _England_, which was found upon trial to yield a greater proportion of Silver, than the Oar of _Potosi_ in the _West-Indies_, but hitherto no Mine of it hath been discover’d there. The Trade of Fishing being of so great concernment to the Nation of _England_, the same (if it be well manag’d in this Island of _Terra Nova_) will employ every year above two hundred Sail of _English_ Ships, and ten thousand Mariners, besides the great benefit which may accrue unto the Nation by Imposition upon Strangers there, which would amount to several thousands of Pounds _per Annum_; with which those Coasts may be Guarded, and Ships Trading thither secur’d: besides the great Customs by the Ships call’d _The Sacks_ (being commonly in great numbers every year) who carry Fish from _New-found Land_ into the _Straights_, _France_, _Portugal_, and _Spain_, and who bring their Returns into _England_, as Bullion, and all other native Commodities of those Countreys. If the Island were well fortifi’d, we might Command all those of other Nations that come to Fish in _New-found Land_, to pay Contribution in Fish or otherwise, for their Priviledge to Fish there, the said Island being first Planted by _English_, and pertaining to the Kingdom of _England_; or if occasion should require, they might be utterly debarr’d of Fishing there. The Trade of Fishing is of so great concernment to _France_, _Spain_, _Portugal_, the _Straights_, and other Parts, that they cannot well be without that yearly Supply in Fish which comes from that Island: Neither can the _Hollanders_, _Spaniards_, or _Portuguese_, well set any Ships to the _West-Indies_, without _New-found Land_ Fish, there being none that will endure to pass the Line sound and untainted, but the Fish of that Countrey, salted and dry’d there. And so long as the Act continues still in force, That no Fish be Transported from the said Island, but in _English_ Bottoms, it will contribute very much to our encrease of Shipping there, and by consequence, of the employment of Mariners; and the Fishing of that part of the Island will be solely appropriated to the _English_ Nation, to whom of right it belongs, which will prove the greatest Ballance of Trade in that part of the World; and that whereas above two hundred Sail do Trade thither yearly to Fish, if a thousand Sail come, if there be but Fisher-men enow, they may all have Fraughtage there. The _French_, if once the Island be fortifi’d, will be depriv’d of their Nursery of Mariners, this being the onely place, besides _Canada_, and one or two adjacent Coasts, where they come for supply of Fish, with which that Nation cannot be furnish’d so well from other Parts. By well Planting and Fortifying _New-found Land_, the Trading to _Virginia_, _New England_, and those Parts, would be much encourag’d, _New England_ having had of late great Traffick with _New-found Land_, where they vend the Growth of their Plantation. Besides, _New-found Land_ is a Key to the Gulf of _Canada_, which if the _English_ had again in their possession, as they had in the Years 1628. and 1632. they might give a Law to all foreign Kings and People interested in any of the parts of _America_, and a Protection to all the _English_ Plantations upon that Continent, whereby great security, comfort and profit would arise to the Nation and People of it: whereas on the contrary, if the _French_, _Spanish_, or _Dutch_, should possess themselves of the said Plantation, they would not onely deprive this Nation of all the Advantages aforesaid, but would also derive to themselves so great a Power to prejudice all the Plantations of the Coasts of _America_ belonging to this Nation, that the Inconveniences thereof are scarce to be imagin’d or express’d. [Illustration: mappa ÆSTIVARVM Infularum] After the granting of the Patent aforesaid of 13 _Car._ 1. Sir _David Kirk_’s great Pains there, and constant Endeavours, were beyond expectation bless’d with a continuance and preservation of Trade in that Place; in the carrying on of which, he had always a special regard to the real Advantage of this Kingdom, and the particular Service of His Majesty. [Sidenote: The wonderful Bank of _Terra Nova_.] [Sidenote: _The Baccaloos._] Before this Island, right over against _Cape Ray_, at the distance of twenty four Leagues or more, there lieth an huge Bank or Ridge of Land, extending it self in length out of the Sea, above a hundred Leagues, but in breadth not above four or five and twenty, when it is broadest, and in other parts much less, sharpning towards each end into a _Conus_, or narrow Point. It is accounted one of the Wonders of the Sea, which round about, at some distance, is very deep, and hardly to be sounded, especially betwixt the _Bank_ (for so they commonly call it) and _Cape Ray_, but drawing nearer, it grows by degrees more and more shallow, insomuch that nigh the Land there is not much more Water than is necessary for the Ships to Ride in. It runneth out in length, as was said, from North to South, from forty one Degrees of Latitude to fifty two; and round about it there lie scatter’d a multitude of lesser Islands, which Sir _Sebastian Cabot_, when he first discover’d the Place, call’d by one common Name _Los Baccaloos_, or _The Islands of Cod-fish_, from the great quantity of that sort of Fish he there found; which was such, that they hindred the passage of his Ships, and lay in such multitudes upon the Coasts, that the very Bears would come and catch them in their Claws, and draw them to Land. [Sidenote: The Isle of _Assumption_.] In the Gulf of _St. Laurence_, towards the Mouth of the River _Canada_, is another less considerable Island, said to have been first discover’d by _Quartier_, and by him call’d _The Island of Assumption_; by _John Alphonso_, _The Island of Ascension_; by the Natives, _Natistcotec_: It extends it self from the forty eighth to the fiftieth Degree, between the South-East and North-West. _Quartier_ makes mention of a strange kinde of Fish, found in the River of _Canada_, like unto a Sea-Hog, but having the Head of a Hare, it is call’d by the Natives _Adhothuys_. Not far from this is a little Island, call’d by the _French_, _Isle de Sable_, or _The Sandy Island_; and another on the West of _Terra Nova_, call’d _Isle de Bretons_, or _The Island of St. Laurence_, besides several little scatter’d Islands in the Gulf of _St. Laurence_, as _Menego_, and _The Three Islands of Birds_; in which are found a kind of amphibious Animal, call’d by the _French_, _Cualrus_, and by the _Russians_, _Morsh_; somewhat like a Sea-Calf, but more monstrous. [Illustration] CHAP. XII. The Bermudas, or Summer-Islands. [Sidenote: Situation of the _Bermudas_.] The _Bermudas_, or _Summer-Islands_ (probably so term’d as to the first Appellation from certain black Hogs, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Bermudas_, which from a Ship bound with them to some other parts of the _West-Indies_, and cast away upon that Coast, swam ashore, and there increased; or, as others say, from _John Bermudes_, a _Spaniard_, who is said to have been the first Discoverer; or, as to the second, from one _George Summers_, an _English_-man, who there suffer’d shipwrack) are situated in thirty two Degrees and twenty five Minutes of Northern Latitude about sixteen hundred Leagues from _England_, twelve hundred from _Madera_, four hundred from _Hispaniola_, and three hundred from the nearest Coast of _Virginia_. The first that endeavour’d to settle Plantations here was a _Spaniard_ nam’d _Hernando Camelo_, being design’d Conductor in this Expedition: And this Undertaking was so much the more eagerly prosecuted, upon consideration that the Plate-Fleet Sailing from _Havana_ through the _Straights_ of _Bahama_, might here have a convenient Harbour; but those who were invited to become Adventurers, with proffers of great Advantage, shewing themselves very slack in the Business, and _Charles_ the Fifth being at that time intangled in War and other troublesom Affairs, the Design came to nothing, and for above sixty years after no farther Attempt was made by any for the Planting of these Islands, till at last the _French_ made a Voyage thither under Captain _Barboriere_, but by Shipwrack were frustrated of their hopes; nor made they any more Preparations in this Design. In which nevertheless the _English_ were not so easily discourag’d, for first Captain _Gosnol_ and _Smith_ set forth, at the Charges of Mr. _Edward Wingfield_; next, Captain _Nelson_; then successively _West_, _Gates_, _Argal_, and _Wyat_, but all with little or no success, till at length in the Year 1612. a Company was establish’d in _London_ by the King’s Letters Patents, who sent one Mr. _Richard Moor_ with sixty Men to the _Bermudas_, where he spent three years in fortifying those Islands: but that which put a little stop to this good beginning, was a kind of Misfortune that hapned; for the Rats which were gotten ashore from a Shipwrack increas’d so exceedingly, that they devour’d all the Plants in the Field, and the Provision in the Houses, insomuch that a great Famine proceeded from thence, all means to destroy the Vermine being in vain; till at last Providence sent a Disease amongst them, which kill’d them all in a very short time. Mean while _Moor_ went on in the fortification of the Island, and was ere long supply’d with fresh People. Mr. _Barlet_ was sent over with sixty Men, and carried from thence with him eighty Pound of Ambergreece. And soon after three Ships more, _viz._ the _Blessing_, the _Star_, and the _Margaret_, convey’d thither four hundred and ten, Men and Women. As soon as _Moor_ was call’d away, _Daniel Tuckard_ coming from _Virginia_ to succeed him, bestirr’d himself very much, Planting all places full of Trees fetch’d from the _West-Indian_ Islands; as also Tobacco, with which he fraighted a Ship to _London_. Moreover, the Countrey was divided into Acres, that every Planter might have an equal share, and know his own Lands. _Anno 1619._ _Tuckard_ was succceded by _Nathaniel Butler_, who in four Ships brought thither five hundred Men and Women, to supply the first Plantation, which was much decay’d since the Rats had devour’d their Provisions, so that it was little look’d after by the Company in _London_: But now they built a Church and erected a Court of Judicature, and all things were order’d conveniently for the publick good. After which many Noble Persons set Sail thither in the _Magazine_ Frigat; and the Planters being now fifteen hundred in number, inhabited twenty Leagues of Land in length. [Sidenote: Forts built upon the _Bermudas_.] On the longest Island, call’d _St. George_, (for the _Bermudas_ consists of several Islands, great and small) they built _Warwick_ and _Dover_ Forts, with other Fortifications and Towers, which had their Denominations from those Noble-men and Gentlemen that were Undertakers in this Plantation, as _Cavendish_, _Paget_, _Herbert_, &c. from the Earl of _Devonshire_, the Lord _Paget_, the Earl of _Pembroke_ and others. [Sidenote: Ports and Havens.] Amongst the Havens the eminentest are, _Southampton_, the Inlet _Harrington_, and the _Great Sound_. All these Islands lying together resemble a Half-Moon, and are surrounded with Rocks, which appear at Low-water, and at High lie but shallow; for it seldom Ebbs or Flows above five Foot. The Shore, for the most part Rocky, and hardned by the Sun and Wind, receives no damage by the Waves which continually beat against the same. [Sidenote: Nature of the Soil.] The Ground it self differs; for in some places it is sandy or clayie, and in others partly black, and partly white, or Ash-colour’d Earth; which last is accounted the worst, and the black the best. Three Foot deep under the Ash-colour’d Earth lie great Slates, and under the black, a white spungie Stone, like the Pumice, in whose moist Crevises Trees take root. The Pits or Wells, though they Ebb and Flow with the Sea, yet produce a wholsom and sweet Water. [Sidenote: Temperature of the Air.] The Skie is generally serene, but when over-cast with Clouds, is subject to Lightning and Thunder; yet the Air is of a good temper, being neither exceeding cold, nor excessive hot: for which reason the _European_ Fruits grow better there than in their natural Soil. Their Harvest is twice a year; for that which they Sowe in _March_, is ripe and gather’d in _June_; then what they Sowe again in _August_, they gather in _January_. [Sidenote: Productions of the Countrey.] These Islands breed no hurtful Creatures; nay, the yellow Spider which spins silken Cobwebs, is free from Poyson. The Plant _Nuchtly_, which bears speckled Pears, grows betwixt the Rocks which are drench’d with Sea-water. The Hogs which above a hundred and fifty years since swam ashore out of the _Spanish_ Wrack, are exceedingly increas’d there, but because of their poorness are scarce eatable, they feeding onely on the sweet Berries which fall from the _Palmito_-Trees. About the white and red Mulberries, which grow plentifully there, breed thousands of Silk-worms, which spin Silk according to the colour of the Mulberries. The Sea produces some quantity of Pearls and Ambergreece. From the beginning of the year till _May_, the Whales are seen to swim not far from the Shore. A strange sort of Sea-Fowl breed in Holes like Rabbets; and amongst other Birds, here are also store of Cranes. The Tobacco which the _English_ have planted here grows very well. [Sidenote: Tortoises Laying of Eggs.] Here are likewise great Tortoises, which Lay their Eggs in the Sand on the Shore, where they are Hatch’d by the Beams of the Sun, and are taken after this manner: In the Night some are set to watch where they Land, and whilest they are digging a deep Hole in the Ground, are thrown on their Backs, and not being able to get upon their Legs again, they lie and groan very pitifully: some of them having above two Basons full of Eggs in their Bellies; which being about the bigness of a Tennis-Ball, have a thin Shell, which incloseth a Yolk and White. If these Eggs lie buried six years, then the young Tortoises breaking the Shell, come out of the Sand, and instantly creep into the Sea. Their Flesh is not onely wholsom but toothsom. The Oyl made of them is not inferior to Butter. [Sidenote: Cedars of an excellent kind.] Moreover, the _Bermudas_ produce Cedars, the like of which are not to be found in the whole World: The Leaves are douny and prickly at the ends, almost like those of the Juniper Tree: The Wood hath a sweet smell, and the Berries, which are like the Myrtle, of a pale Red, inclose four white Kernels; the outermost Skin whereof is sweet; the innermost, which covers the Kernel, sharp, and the Pulp tartish: The Trees are always flourishing, being at the same time full of Blossoms, green, and ripe Fruit: The Berries, when grown ripe, begin to gape, and fall off in rainy Weather, leaving a round Stalk on the Boughs, which loses not its Rind till two years after; half which time the Berry requires, before it attains to its perfect ripeness, which generally happens in the Winter: The Boughs shoot straight upwards, and become in time so heavy, that they cause the Body of the Tree to bend. This most excellent Wood grows in divers places of the _Bermudas_. We shall conclude with the resolute Exploit of five Sea-men, _Anno 1616._ who, to the great admiration of all People, set Sail from thence in an open Vessel of three Tun through the main Ocean, and after having suffer’d terrible Tempests, arriv’d in the space of seven Weeks safe in _Ireland_. These Islands are remarkable for divers sorts of Plants, unknown in other Parts, as the _Prickle Pear_, _Poyson Weed_, _Red Weed_, _Purging Bean_, _Costive Tree_, _Red Pepper_, and the _Sea Feather_. Also several strange Birds, as the _Egg Bird_, _Cahow_, _Tropick Bird_, and the _Pemlico_, which presageth Storms. [Illustration] CHAP. XIII. Hispaniola. The Islands call’d _De Barlovento_, by which are understood _Hispaniola_, _Cuba_, _Jamaica_, and _Boriquen_, as also the _Lucaies_, with the _Caribes_, and lastly the Isles call’d _De Sotavento_, viz. _Margareta_, _Cabagua_, and _Tabago_, are by some comprehended all under the general Name of _The Isles Antilles_; though others reckon the _Antilles_ to be the same with the _Caribes_ onely. But leaving this Controversie undecided, we shall begin with the Isles _De Barlovento_, the chief whereof is _Hispaniola_. [Sidenote: Bounds and Description of _Hispaniola_.] _Hispaniola_, or _Little Spain_ (as _Columbus_ nam’d it) is, though not the largest, yet the fairest and goodliest of all the _American_ Islands, call’d by the Natives anciently _Hayti_ and _Quisqueia_: It lieth about fifteen Leagues Westward of _Porto Rico_, and distant from the main Land of _America_ about one hundred and twenty; ’tis of a triangular form, the sharpest Point whereof is that towards _Porto Rico_, which they call _Cabo de Enganno_: that towards the West inclines to a Semi-circle, containing a good and convenient Bay betwixt the two Points, _viz._ _St. Nicholas_ to the North, and _Cabo de Donna Maria_ towards the South. It is not thought to be less than a hundred and fifty Leagues in length, and in breadth from threescore to thirty, and to contain in the compass of the whole, four hundred Leagues at least, lying betwixt eighteen and twenty Degrees of Northern Latitude, having an Air somewhat infested with the Morning Heats, but well cool’d again in the Afternoon, by a constant Wind from the Sea, which they call there _Virason_. It is, for the fertility of the Soil, one of the richest and most flourishing Countreys in the World; the Trees and all things else there continually clad, as it were, in their Summer Livery, the Meadows and Pastures always green, and of such an excellent Herbage, that Cattel both breed and thrive there beyond belief; both great Cattel and small, as Kine, Sheep, Hogs, _&c._ brought thither out of _Spain_, having multiply’d to such numbers, that they live wild now in Herds in several places, and are both hunted and kill’d, like Stags or other Venison, onely for their Hides, which they send yearly into _Spain_ and other parts of _Europe_, as a great Merchandize and Commodity of huge profit to them. [Illustration] Wild Hogs also have been formerly seen to feed in the Woods in great multitudes, but the Dogs since they were brought over hither, have made great havock amongst them. [Sidenote: Beasts peculiar to _Hispaniola_.] The Animals peculiar to this Island are 1. A little Beast call’d _Hutias_, not much unlike our Coneys. 2. _Chemi_, almost of the same form, but a little bigger. 3. _Mohui_, A Beast somewhat less than the _Hutias_. 4. A Beast call’d _Coxi_. [Sidenote: The Fly _Cuyero_.] Likewise amongst other strange sorts of Creatures here, the _Cuyero_ is very observable, being about an Inch big, and having four Wings, of which two are larger than the other: when they flie they shine after such a manner, that in the Night they make a Room as light as day, insomuch that some have made use of them in stead of Candles to Read by. [Sidenote: The Fish _Manate_.] No less wonderful is the Fish _Manate_, whose shape hath been describ’d elsewhere: It breeds for the most part in the Sea, yet sometimes swimming up the Rivers, comes ashore and eats Grass. The Casique _Caramatexi_ kept one in the Lake _Guaynato_, which was so tame, that when call’d by the Name _Maton_, it us’d to come out of the Water, and go directly to the _Casique_’s House, where being fed, it return’d to the Lake, accompanied with Men and Boys, who with their Singing seem’d to delight the Fish, which sometimes carried ten Children on its Back over the Water; but at last a _Spaniard_ striking at it with a Pike, it would never come forth again when it espy’d a Cloth’d Man: It liv’d twenty six years in the fore-mention’d Lake, till by accident the River _Hayboaic_ over-flowing into the said Lake, the Fish return’d to the Sea. [Sidenote: The Fish _Abacatuaia_.] Besides this great Fish, here is also a sort of small Fish, call’d _Abacatuaia_, with a little Mouth, black Eyes encompass’d with Silver-colour’d Circles, four black Fins, two long ones under its Belly, one on the Back, and one on each side of the Head, the Tail slit and cover’d with a glittering Skin: It is as big as a Flounder, and not ill Meat, but thick and round. [Sidenote: The Insect _Nigua_.] When the _Spaniards_ first setled on _Hispaniola_, they were exceedingly tormented with a sort of leaping Insects call’d _Nigua_, which us’d to eat through their Skin into the Flesh in such a nature, that many of them lost their Arms and Legs; but at last they found out a Remedy against this Evil, _viz._ the searing the Wounds with hot Irons. [Sidenote: Fruits.] Besides the aforesaid plenty of Flesh, they have many excellent Fruits all the year long, as Banana’s, Pine-Apples, Custud-Apples, Plantens, Papans, Musk-melons, Water-melons, and many other peculiar Plants, as 1. the _Auzuba_, a fair large Tree, the Fruit whereof is call’d _Pinnas_, resembling a _Malecotoon_: Of this Tree there are three sorts, _Jaima_, _Boniama_, and _Jaiqua_; 2. _Quauconex_; 3. _Axi_; of which there are also several sorts, as _Carive_, _Huarahuac_, _Axiblanco_, _Acafran-Axi_, and _Axi-Coral_; 4. _Yuca_, the Root of which serves in stead of Corn; 5. Certain Trees call’d _Guaibes_, besides plenty of Mint and Potato’s. [Sidenote: The Provinces of this Island.] The Island of _Hispaniola_ was formerly divided into several Provinces, amongst which the Mountainous Countrey _Hyguey_ lies towards the Isle of _Porto Rico_. On the Mountains, which are flat on the top, are great variety of sharp-pointed Stones. The Soil is a sort of colour’d Earth, which produces all sorts of Fruit, especially the Root _Casabi_, and Melons. _Hyguey_ also conterminates with _Ycayagua_; Northward lies _Samana_; Southward, _Yaquimo_, where there is store of _Brasile_ Wood: And between the City _Domingo_ and _Yaquimo_, is the Countrey _Baoruco_, which with its Mountains extends sixty Leagues in length, and above twenty in breadth, without any Water, Pasture, or Food for Cattel or Mankind. Next follows the Countrey _Xaragua_, lying at the great Inlet which divides _Hispaniola_; for one side extends to the Promontory of _St. Nicholas_, and the other to the Point _Tiburon_. This Countrey produces abundance of Cotton. Lastly, the Provinces _Guahaba_, _Haniguagya_ and _Cahay_, are very eminent; as also _Cibao_, which is full of Gold-Mines; and _Lavega Real_, with _Magnana_, which lie between the two great Rivers _Neyba_ and _Yagui_; the stony Countrey _Ciguayos_, and the low Coast _Darica_, where _Christopher Columbus_ built the City _Navidad_, which he afterwards deserted. Ginger was formerly brought hither from the _East-Indies_, but now grows here in such great abundance, that above two and twenty thousand _Kintalls_ are yearly Transported from thence to _Spain_. With as good success grow here also the Sugar-Canes and _Maiz_. _Peter Martyr_, a Councellor to the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth, relates, That _Hispaniola_ produc’d in his time, besides Silver, Copper, and Iron, five hundred thousand _Ducats_ in Gold: Nevertheless the rich Mines lay undisturb’d, because they wanted People to work in them, insomuch that had they not planted their Royal Seat in _Domingo_, the Island had long since been deserted, notwithstanding the exceeding fruitfulness of the Soil, because the _Spaniards_ exercis’d their Cruelty in such a nature, that of sixty thousand Inhabitants from the Year 1508. to _Anno 1514._ scarce fourteen thousand of them were left alive; all which is affirm’d by the Bishop _De las Casas_. Nay, the fore-mention’d _Peter Martyr_ relates, That the Men wearied with working in the Mines, kill’d themselves, despairing of ever being releas’d from their Slavery; and Women with Child destroy’d the Infants in their Wombs, that they might not bear Slaves for the _Spaniards_. He adds hereunto, That of a hundred and twenty thousand Persons, few were left in a short time. [Sidenote: The Gaiety of the antient _Casiques_.] These Provinces in former times had each of them their _Casique_, whose splendor consisted chiefly in Dancing to his Devotion, with a Girdle full of Bells about his Middle, a String of Pearls about his Arms, a Covering over his Privities, and a Plume of Feathers on his Head, with a Drummer before him, and a small Train of Arm’d Men after him. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Ports and Havens.] On the Coast are first the Point of _Nisao_, ten Leagues to the West of _Santo Domingo_. Eighteen Leagues farther is the Port _Ocoa_, which is a Bay where the Fleets of _Nova Hispania_ take refreshing, when they do not Anchor in the Nook of _Sepesepin_, which is near unto it, or in another call’d _The Fair Haven_, two Leagues before you come to _Ocoa_. Twenty Leagues beyond _Ocoa_ is the Port of _Asua_. Thirty Leagues more Westwardly is a large Point right against the Island of _Bola_, which lieth five Leagues from the Coast. The most Westerly Point is call’d _Cape Tiburon_: It hath an Island three Leagues from it Westward, call’d _Caprio_; and Sailing along the Coast, you will see an Island call’d _Camito_, and farther in the Nook of _Yaguana_ another call’d _Guanabo_ of eight Leagues long. On the North side of the Island, the most Westerly Cape and Port is _St. Nicholas_, from whence North-East and by East, lieth the Island of _Tortuga_, near the Coast of _Hispaniola_: It is of five Leagues length. Farther along the Coast is _Monte Christo_, the West Cape of _Natividad_; to the East of which there is a great Bay call’d _Port Real_. This Island is so full of Harbours, that he that will Coast it, cannot well miss of one where he pleaseth, most of which afford fresh Meat and good Water. Moreover, _Hispaniola_ hath many brave Rivers, the chiefest of which are _Hayna_; _Nizao_, along whose Shore the first Sugar-Canes were planted; _Neyba_, a great River; _Yaquimo_; _Yaqui_, which _Columbus_ call’d _Rio de Oro_, because the Ground thereof glitter’d like Gold; and lastly, the Rivers _Nicayagua_, amongst whose Sands is Gold; _Nigua_, which borrows its Denomination from the fore-mention’d leaping Insect; the swift Stream _Juno_, whose Banks are crown’d with handsom Houses; and _Jaquin_, which hath many Salt-pans. The Rivers _Itabo_, _Ocoa_, _Cepi_, _Bia_, _Cazui_, _Sanate de Plata_, and _Chiabon_, have some one, others more Sugar-Mills upon them. But the chiefest River is _Ozama_, broad, and so deep, that the biggest Vessel may lie close by the Shore; and also washes _St. Domingo_. [Sidenote: Description of the City of _St. Domingo_.] This City, the Metropolis of all the Isles round about, was built by _Bartholomeus Columbus_, and was peopled _Anno 1494._ after which it flourish’d eight years, when, a terrible Storm blowing the same down to the Ground, _Nicholas Olanda_ remov’d it to the Western Shore of _Ozama_, that the _Spaniards_, who had for the most part setled towards the West, might not be necessitated to Ferry over: but the first place stood much more conveniently, being not onely provided of a Fountain of sweet Water, but also freed of those unwholsom Vapours which daily rise with the Sun at this new-built City. To prevent the inconvenience of crossing to the foremention’d Fountain, of which the Inhabitants found themselves oftentimes in great want, _Olanda_ went about to lead the neighboring River _Hayna_ into the _Ozama_, but the Design not being prosecuted, bereav’d _Domingo_ of the onely thing which would have made it able to stand in competition with any City in the World; for it lies on a Plain, the South side whereof is wash’d by the Sea; the East side, by the River; on the North and West are many delightful Fields. The City, which in a manner is built square, is divided into long straight Streets, full of fair Houses after the _Spanish_ manner: in the middle thereof is a square Market-place, with a handsom Church, the Yard whereof is encompass’d with a high Wall, which upon occasion would serve for a place of great Defence. The Collectors of the King of _Spain_’s Revenue dwell in stately Palaces; and the _Dominicans_, _Franciscans_, and Monks _De la Merced_, have brave Cloysters, besides two more for the Nuns. The _Latine_ School and Hospital belonging to the City, are Endow’d with great yearly Revenues. The Arch-bishop of _St. Domingo_ hath Command over the Bishoprick of _Conception_, _La Vega_, _Cuba_, _Venezuela_, and _Porto Rico_. The City is surrounded with a Stone Wall, and fortifi’d with a Castle, which with two Bulwarks reaches to the River _Ozama_, and within them two Half-Moons. On the utmost Shore stands a round Tower near the Southern Bulwark. Before the new discover’d Countreys entic’d away many People from _St. Domingo_, and the Silver Fleet put into _Havana_, the Inhabitants drove a great Trade in Hides, Tallow, Sugar, _Cassia_, Horses, and Hogs. _Anno 1586._ Sir _Francis Drake_ Landed here with twelve hundred _English_-men, took the City by Storm, staid a whole Moneth in the same, and upon Composition with the _Spaniard_, left it undestroy’d. [Sidenote: Other chief Towns of _Hispaniola_.] Other chief Towns in _Hispaniola_ are 1. _Salvaleon_, twenty eight Leagues distant from _St. Domingo_, towards the East. 2. _Zeybo._ 3. _Cotny_, formerly inhabited by those that work’d in the Gold-Mines; the last especially was once a rich Town, and much frequented, but now in a manner deserted. 4. _Azua_, or _New Compostella_, eight Leagues distant from _St. Domingo_, famous for the Sugar-Mills not far from it, and one of the Ports before-mention’d. 5. _Yaguana_, for its brave Harbour also call’d _Maria del Puerto_, in the more Western parts of the Island; a small Town not above a League distant from the Sea; It was burnt by Captain _Christopher Newport_. [Illustration: URBA DOMINGO IN HISPANIOLA] 6. _Conception de la Vega_, adorn’d with a Cathedral and Cloysters of Fryers, and lying twenty or thirty Leagues Northward of _St. Domingo_: It was built by _Columbus_, and from thence he had his Title of _Duke de la Vega_. 7. _Sant Jago de los Cavalleros_, a very pleasant Place, ten Leagues Northward of _St. Domingo_. 8. _Puerto de Plata_, or _The Silver Haven_, four Leagues distant from _St. Domingo_ towards the North: It hath been counted the second Place of Trading and Wealth in the whole Island, being commodiously seated on an Arm of the Sea, and fortifi’d with a Castle. 9. _Monte Christo_, one of the Ports also above-mention’d: It lies fourteen Leagues Westward of _Plata_, and extends it self along the Northern Coast: it is wash’d by the River _Yagui_, on whose Banks are many Salt-pans. [Sidenote: The Island dispeopled by the cruelty of the _Spaniards_.] [Sidenote: Their barbarous usage of _Guaccanarillo_ and others.] All those Cities are much decay’d, and thinly inhabited, the _Spaniards_ being most of them drawn by the temptation of new discover’d Gold and Silver Mines in other places, and the first Inhabitants having been miserably destroy’d. The Bishop _De las Casas_, an Eye-witness, relates, That the King _Gauccanarillo_ secur’d the Goods of a stranded Ship, of which _Columbus_ was Commander, and receiv’d the _Spaniards_ very courteously; but not being able to continue supplying them with that quantity of Gold they requir’d, wanting Men to gather so much out of the Streams and Mines, and seeing no way to rid himself from the _Spaniards_ Oppressions, fled to the Province of _Ciguayos_, the _Casique_ of which was his Deputy; whereat the _Spaniards_ were so enrag’d, that they burnt all that they could meet with, neither sparing young nor old; and at length taking _Guaccanarillo_, put him in Irons, and thought to have carried him to _Madrid_; but the Ship in which he went suffering Shipwrack, he with many others was cast away, being before almost dead with grief for his Consort, who had been Ravish’d by a _Spanish_ Commander, Likewise _Anacoana_, Sister to the _Casique_, or Governor of the Province _Xarana_, and Partner with him in the Government, seeing three hundred of her Councellors burning in a great House, set on fire by the _Spaniards_, and her Subjects torn by Dogs, or cut in pieces, hung her self out of despair. The same Death died _Higuanama_, Queen of _Huguey_. Others say that _Anacoana_ was put to death together with her Brother in a most barbarous and cruel manner, by _Nicholas de Olanda_, who succeeded _Diego de Arana_ in the Government of this Island. Many Women and Children were kept alive onely to Manure the Ground. The Men dying of their hard Labour in the Gold-Mines, and those which endur’d stoutly the cruel Labour under Ground, were never suffer’d to go to their Wives; from whence proceeded a great decrease of People, the _Spaniards_ seeming purposely to design the destruction of the Natives of _Hispaniola_, though they receiv’d great benefit by their Service; for Gold in former times was found between the Cracks and split Stones of the Mountains, whose Veins the Mine-workers digg’d for not without great and dangerous Labour. [Sidenote: First original of the People of _Hispaniola_.] The first Planters of _Hispaniola_ are, according to the common opinion, deriv’d from _Matinio_, a high and Mountainous Isle, from whence the most eminent Inhabitants were driven by certain Rebels, as formerly the _Syrians_ under the Government of _Dido_, were driven from _Tyre_ to _Lybia_, and the _Batavians_ from _Hessen_ to the Countrey between _Rhyne_ and _Wall_, at present inhabited by the _Gelders_ and _Hollanders_. These _Matininoensians_ thus expell’d from their native Countrey, setled themselves on _Cahonao_, near the River _Bahaboni_: The first House they call’d _Camoteia_, and afterwards turn’d it into a Temple, to which they shew’d Reverence, and made great Presents: In like manner the _Tyema_, which stood on a high Rock belonging to one of the _Canary_ Islands, was by the ancient Inhabitants of the Place had in great veneration, insomuch that many leap’d down from the same, being perswaded by the Priests, That the Souls of those which threw themselves off this sacred Break-neck, should immediately be translated into a place of everlasting happiness. [Sidenote: The ancient Name of this Island.] This Island was, as we said before, first call’d _Haity_ which signifies _Wild_, because in many places it swells with wondrous high Mountains, and in other places is over-grown with great Woods: it was afterwards by the ancient Inhabitants nam’d _Xusqueia_, that is, _Unmeasurably great_, because they suppos’d it to be the whole World, and that the Sun shin’d in no other place. [Sidenote: _Indian_ Songs or Ballads call’d _Areitos_.] The Natives of this Island, though wholly rude of acquir’d Knowledge or Literature, like the generality of the _Americans_, yet they took care to instruct their Children in the Original and Antiquities of their Countrey, and the Wars and Exploits of their Predecessors, both which they contain’d in Songs call’d _Areitos_ which they us’d to Sing to the sound of Drums and Trumpets; but especially their Persons of chiefest Quality study’d most these _Areitos_, and exercis’d themselves in Dancing. [Sidenote: Strange Prediction of the _Spaniards_ Arrival.] The most remarkable of these ancient _Areitos_, were such as pretended to prophesie of things to come, which if of sad consequence, were Sung very mournfully and with many Sighs; nor were they always, however inspir’d, without effect, as appear’d at last by woful event: for long before the _Spaniards_ Landed on _Hispaniola_, it was foretold by one of them, that _Maguacochios_, signifying _Clothed People_, should Land on _Hispaniola_, who with sharp Weapons should cut off Heads and Arms, and under whose insupportable Yoke their Successors must spend their days without hope of ever being releas’d. It might be disputed whether these Predictions were dictated by good or evil Spirits; but it is generally believ’d, that all their Oracles, whether hapning true or false, were suggested by diabolical Spirits to the Priests, who commonly convers’d with them; and that these Spirits knew the Design of several People to discover new Countreys. [Sidenote: The Images of their _Zemes_.] Their Images _Zemes_, stuff’d full of Cotton, were fashion’d into very frightful Shapes, and might pass for those things which we call _Terricula_, or _Bugbears_; of which some were made very small, and those they ty’d on their Foreheads when they went to the Wars. Every Governor had a peculiar _Zemes_, to whom he shew’d Reverence, in return whereof he expected Rain, fair Weather, and to conquer his Enemies, supposing him to be a Messenger of a perpetual and endless Being, by them call’d _Jocauna Guamaonocon_; whom nevertheless they suppos’d to have a Mother, to whom they gave five Names, _viz._ _Attbeir_, _Mamona_, _Guacarapita_, _Liella_, and _Guimazoa_. [Sidenote: The Islanders Opinion of the Creation.] Their opinion of Man’s Creation was thus: They say, that out from a Mountain in the Province _Cuanana_, out of certain small and great Caverns therein, came little and great People: The biggest Hole, call’d _Cazibaragua_, and the little one, nam’d _Amaiauna_, were said to be lock’d up every Night, that none might pass the Sentinel _Machchael_, who out of curiosity leaving the Mountain _Cuata_, and going up into the Countrey, was discover’d by the Sun, whose Beams he not being able to endure, was turn’d into a Rock. The like Mischance hapned to many others, who in the dark Night going to Fish, in the Morning at their Return were chang’d into Oaken Trees, onely one of the Fishermen was sent away by the chief Commander _Vaguoniana_, who moved at the Complaint of a Nightingale’s Singing, suffer’d all the Men to go into the Hole, and the Women and Children he Transported to _Matinino_. But to make short of these non-sensical Stories, in conclusion, the Men being let out of their Caves, saw many strange Beasts amongst the Woods, which being turn’d into Women, were entertain’d by them, and brought forth a numerous Progeny, which spread over all _Hispaniola_. [Sidenote: Their foolish Opinion of the Original of the Sea.] No less ridiculous an Account do the Priests give concerning the Original of the Sea, _viz._ That _Jaia_, a mighty Man, buried the Body of his deceased Son in a Pumpion, which some Moneths after, out of meer affection to the Deceased, he cutting open, abundance of Whales sprung out of it. This Wonder being every where known, amongst others, entic’d four Brothers born at one Birth (whose Mother died in Childbed) to get the Pumpion into their possession; which their Design prov’d successful: but afterwards struck with a pannick fear of _Jaia_’s coming thither (who oftentimes came to mourn over the Bones of his dead Son) they fled, and threw away the Pumpion, which breaking with the fall, the Sea gush’d out of all places thereof, and cover’d the Plains in such a manner, that nothing of them was seen, onely the tops of the highest Mountains appear’d; at which the four Brothers terribly afrighted, rang’d through barren Desarts, in which they had died of Hunger, had they not come to a Baker’s House, which one of them entring, ask’d for _Cazabi_; but the Baker denying them Bread, spit on them, which caus’d a mortal Dropsie, which the Brothers upon consultation found no way to cure, but by cutting a hole in the Skin with a sharp Stone, and to let out the Water; but out of each running Wound sprung a Woman, who bare them four Sons and four Daughters. [Sidenote: The Cave _Jovana-beina_.] There is a certain Cave call’d _Jovana-beina_, which is adorn’d with a thousand Pictures, in great esteem amongst them; at the Entrance on each side whereof stands a _Zemes_; that on the right side is call’d _Binthaitelles_, the other _Marohur_, to which they come from all places to pay their Devotions, because (they say) the Sun and Moon came out of the said Cave to lighten the World. [Sidenote: Their absurd Opinion of the Deceased.] Much after the same absurd rate is their Opinion of the Deceased; for they suppose that they range through Woods and Forrests in the Night, eat of a Fruit call’d _Guannaba_, and steal to the Embraces of Women in Moon-shiny Nights. A Traveller, say they, if he be frighted at the appearance of a deceased Person, great inconveniences will certainly attend him, but if he goes stoutly towards it, then the Goblin vanishes. These Delusions are made great Mysteries amongst them, and contain’d in Songs, which their Priests _Boiti_ Sing to a kind of Tabor made of a piece of hollow Wood, pretending that they have familiar Conversation with the _Zemes_ concerning future things. [Sidenote: Their Ceremonies about their Sick.] Their Ceremonies about their sick, especially if Persons of Quality, are likewise very remarkably odd and conceited: First they chew a strong kind of Herb, call’d _Cohobba_, with which having sufficiently intoxicated their Brains, they foam at the Mouth, and run with a Stone and a piece of Flesh in their Mouths to the sick Person, whose Family they drive all out of Doors, except one or two, whose presence the Patient requires; then the _Boiti_ walks four times about the sick Person’s Bed, making strange Gestures, pinching his Lips and Nose, blowing upon his Forehead, Throat and Temples, and sucking several parts of his Body, alledging, that thereby he draws the Distemper out of the Veins; after that he chafes and rubs his Shoulders, Thighs and Legs, and ties his Hands and Feet together, then running to the Door, proclaims, That the Sick in a short time shall be restor’d to his former Health; which said, he returns with his Arms stretch’d out towards the sick Person, takes the piece of Flesh out of his Mouth, which he gives him backwards, saying, _You shall rise and go forth in Health, for I have taken away your Sickness_: But if he judges the Distemper not curable, he makes the Sick believe, that _Zemes_ is displeas’d with him, because he did not build a House for him, or consecrate a Garden to him, or in some respect or other did not worship him as he ought to have done. When the Soul departs out of the Body, they conjure the Body with many Adjurations, to reveal whether it died according to God’s decree, or through neglect of the _Boiti_, as not having sanctifi’d himself enough by Fasting when he went first to the Sick, or not prescrib’d sufficient Medicines: wherefore if (as they say) the Devil answers them from the Mouth of the Deceased, that the _Boiti_ did not perform his due Office, then the nearest Friends revenge themselves on the _Boiti_, but if otherwise, then they are highly esteem’d amongst them. The Women taking the Stones which the _Boiti_ kept in his Mouth, wrap them up in a fine Cloth as a holy Relique, supposing that they will much facilitate their Child-birth. [Sidenote: Their manner of Consulting with their _Zemes_.] The _Casiques_ desirous to know future Events of War, or whether the approaching Years will be fruitful, go into a Chappel consecrated to the _Zemes_, and snuff the intoxicating Herb _Cohobba_ up their Nostrils; whereupon they break out into loud Exclamations, and some kind of strange extravagant Actions, till the power of the _Cohobba_ begins to decay, and the Frenzie cease; then coming again to their Senses, they bow their Heads, and lay their Elbows on their Knees, in which posture they sit for a considerable time, then lifting up their Eyes they yawn as if they came from sleep; then they mutter to themselves whilest their Retinue which stand about them (for no common Person is suffer’d to be there) thank them with a loud Voice, for the pains they have been at in discoursing with the _Zemes_; then the _Casiques_ begin to declare what hath been reveal’d to them, _viz._ whether they shall be fortunate in the Wars or not; whether it will be a fruitful or unfruitful, healthy or sickly Year. [Sidenote: Gossipping.] Moreover, at the Birth of the _Casique_’s Children, the neighboring Governors visit the Women in Child-bed, and every one gives the Child a peculiar Name, from whence it happens that one Man hath oftentimes forty Names, and is highly incens’d if any one of them chances to be forgot in any Writing directed to him. [Sidenote: Manner of Succession.] Their manner of Succession in Government is not unremarkable; for not the eldest Heir-male of the Family, but first the King or _Casique_’s Brother, if he have any, and after his Decease the eldest of the Sisters Inherits the Realm or _Seigniorie_: if the Sisters have no Male-issue, then the Brothers Sons Inherit; and in case they have no Male-heir, then the next of Blood, whether Male or Female: but if the Prince or _Casique_ dies without Children, Nephews, or other near Relations, the next in Power in the Countrey Inherits, and Marries as many Wives as he pleases; of which she that he loves best is burn’d alive in her best Apparel with her Husband when he dies, and near the Corps stands a Cup of Water and some of the Bread _Cazabi_. [Sidenote: Languages.] There are several Languages in _Hispaniola_, but differing from each other: for in the Province _Bainoa_ they have a different, both Pronunciation and Dialect from that in _Caizimu_. In the said Province of _Caizimu_ is a very remarkable Rock, or vast Stone to be seen, at the Foot of a high Mountain; and underneath the said Stone is a great Cave, into which they go through a large Passage, not unlike a Temple Door; near which conjoyn many deep Rivers, with such a Noise and Foam, that they lose both their Sight and Hearing, whoever approach the same. [Sidenote: An Example of the _Bainoan_ Language.] Of the Language of the Province _Bainoa_, _Peter Martyr_ gives us this Specimen: “The Wife of a _Casique_ (says he) went to Prayers in a Chappel which was built by the _Spaniards_; at her Return from whence her Husband desiring to enjoy her, she refusing, said, _Teitoca, teitoca, techeta Cynato guammechina_, that is to say, _Be contented, Be contented, God would be highly incens’d_: to which the _Casique_ answer’d, _Gnaibba Cynato machabucha guamechyna_, that is, _What care I if God be angry_.” [Sidenote: The taking of _St. Domingo_ by Sir _Fran. Drake_.] Since the _Spaniards_ had first possession of this Island, it hath been twice Invaded by the _English_, the first time under the Conduct of Sir _Francis Drake_, who took the Town of _San Domingo_, staid in it a good while, and could if he had pleas’d, have totally dispossess’d the _Spaniards_; the second time under Colonel _Venables_, sent thither by _Oliver Cromwell_ during his usurp’d Dominion; at which time it might as easily have been taken as at first, had not the Business been rashly and indiscreetly manag’d, as shall presently be declar’d more at large. The first Expedition of Sir _Francis Drake_ hath been already hinted, but for the memorableness of that bold Exploit, we shall give a particular Account of it from a late Writer, who hath set forth the Life of that brave _English_ Heroe. In the Year of our Lord 1580. about the end of _February_ setting Sail from _St. Christophers_ for _Hispaniola_, by the Way they met with a small Frigat bound for _San Domingo_, and the Men of her being Examin’d, one assur’d them that the Haven of it was a barr’d Haven, and the Shore well fortifi’d, so that there was no convenient Landing within ten _English_ Miles of the City, whither this Man undertook to conduct them. _January_ the first they Landed ten Miles from the City, and marching thither under the Command of the Lieutenant General, arriv’d about one a Clock in the Afternoon; when they came near, about a hundred and fifty Gentlemen well Mounted, presented themselves against them; but the small Shot playing upon them, they departed, and the _English_ proceeded towards the two Gates of the City that lay towards the Sea, both which the _Spaniards_ had Mann’d, and planted their Ordnance without the Gates, and some small Shot in an Ambush by the Way-side: The _English_ being about twelve hundred Men, divided themselves; the Lieutenant-General leading the one half to one Gate, and Captain _Powel_ the other half to the other Gate, vowing that with God’s assistance they would not rest till they met in the Market-place: No sooner had the _Spaniards_ discharg’d their Ordnance, doing some little Execution, but the Lieutenant-General hasted, or rather ran upon them, to prevent their Charging again, and notwithstanding their Ambush, entred Pell Mell with them into the Gate, not staying till he came into the Market-place, unto whom shortly after came Captain _Powel_ with his Companies. This Place they strengthned with Barricado’s, the City being too large to be guarded by so small and weary an Army. And after Mid-night they in the Castle, hearing some of the _English_ busie about the Gate, quitted it, some being taken Prisoners, and others escaping by Boats. The next day the _English_ enlarg’d their Quarters, and fortifi’d themselves, and held the Town for a Moneths space. During this time the General sent a _Negro_ Boy with a Flag of Truce to the _Spaniards_, who by the Way was met by some Officers of the Galley which the _English_ had taken, together with the City, who furiously thrust the poor Boy through the Body; who returning to the General, and having declar’d how barbarously they had us’d him, fell down and died in his Presence. The General being much mov’d herewith, commanded the Provost-Martial to take two Fryers, and to carry them to the same place with a sufficient Guard, and there to hang them; and withal he sent one of the Prisoners to inform the _Spaniards_ why he did it, and to tell them, that till the Party who had thus murder’d his Messenger were deliver’d to him, there should no day pass wherein he would not hang two Prisoners, till all were consum’d. Hereupon the day following the Murtherer was brought, and an Offer made to deliver him to the General, who yet thought it more honorable to make them perform the Execution themselves in the sight of the _English_, which was done accordingly. During their abode here, Commissioners oft pass’d between the _Spaniards_ and them about the Ransom of the City, but not agreeing, the _English_ spent every Morning till the heat of the Day in firing and destroying the Houses in the outward part of the City, two hundred Mariners being employ’d therein for divers days; yet were the Houses built so magnificently and strongly of Stone, that they could not consume one third part of the Town all that time; whereupon the General was contented to accept of twenty five thousand _Ducats_ of 5_s._ 6_d._ apiece to spare the rest. Here his Soldiers met with good Pillage, especially of rich Apparel, but Treasure they found none; for the _Spaniards_ by their Cruelties had so destroy’d the Natives, who us’d to work in the Mines of Gold and Silver, that they were wholly given over; and in that Island they were forc’d to use Copper Money: yet they found store of Wine, Oyl, Vinegar, Wheat, Woollen and Linnen Cloth, some Silks, _&c._ which much reliev’d them: there was but little Plate found, but good store of _Porcelane_, or _China_ Dishes; yet some they found, and very costly Houshold-stuff. [Sidenote: _Venables_ his Expedition to _San Domingo_.] _Venables_ his Expedition was in the Year 1654. when _Cromwell_ having gain’d the supream Power under the Title of _Protector_, and having us’d so many Engines for the getting of Money to maintain his Greatness and usurp’d Authority, that he was almost brought to his last Shifts, bethought himself of this Project, (or, as some suppose, had it put into his Head by Cardinal _Mazarine_, the then great Minister of State in _France_, with whom he had intimate Correspondence) thinking thereby to kill two Birds with one Stone: for on the one side, he thought by this notable Exploit to advance his Fame abroad, and gain Credit and Applause with the People at home, by enlarging his Empire, and spreading the Renown of the _English_ Nation, and so consequently to establish himself the more firmly in his new gotten Power; and at the same time by the great Riches he promis’d to himself from this Adventure, to recruit his Stock, which all his griping Exactions, especially from the King’s Party, could scarce supply for the keeping up of his Army, maintaining Intelligence, and other vast Expences: To this end he sets forth a considerable Fleet with extraordinary speed and secrecy, it not being known whither this Fleet was design’d till they were almost upon the very Place, that the _Spaniard_ might not be forewarn’d to provide against them, onely in general terms it was given out, that the Design was both advantageous to the Nation, and would prove a great enrichment to all that went upon it; so that it is no great wonder, if within a short space a good competent Army was got together of such as having neither Estates nor Employments, willingly offer’d themselves, as Men that went from the fear of Iron Grates, to the hopes of Golden Ingots; and many of them were such as having been in the late King’s Army, and disdaining to take any Employment at home under that Government, were easily induc’d to List themselves in this Armada: nor was _Oliver_ a little glad of this occasion of sending out of the Land, and employing upon a desperate Adventure those Men, who he had reason to suspect would, upon any opportunity offer’d, be the first Opposers of his usurp’d Power. This Army being sent to _Portsmouth_ for Embarquation, and there making such Preparations as was convenient, which a Moneths time or thereabouts was thought would accomplish, a Messenger came from _Desborough_ (who was there to set them going) to the General, that he should prepare to Embarque on _Christmas_-day; which at the first the General receiv’d with great impatience, alledging, That it was not possible so to do, and that he would not set Sail without his Arms and other Necessaries, which were not yet come from _London_: however, at his going to _Desborough_ he was prevail’d upon to set Sail, with a promise that the Ships with the Arms should immediately follow him to the _Barbado_’s, where he was to stay till their arrival; so on _Christmas_-day they set Sail, and about the fourteenth of _February_ arriv’d at _Barbado_’s with three thousand Men, and a Company of Reformado’s, which there were doubled, and then, and not till then, it was told them, That the reason of their so sudden going away, was because there was a Plot forming in _England_ for restoring the King, and that they were not thought fit to be left there at the Head of their Regiments, to be tempted with the advantage of joyning with any such Party. At _Barbado_’s they staid till they had almost undone that Place by eating up their Provisions, the Planters there seldom preparing more than they have occasion to spend in their Houses, and for their Servants (having better and more profitable Employments upon their Hands) and the Soldiers not being content with such Provisions as their Servants would be well pleas’d with, so that they were in danger of starving the Island and themselves too: Thereupon a Council of War was call’d, and the necessity of leaving that Island declar’d, and Orders issu’d out to set Sail for _Hispaniola_, where they might make such Attempt as their Condition would allow, wanting Arms and other Necessaries; when they came within five or six Leagues of _Hispaniola_ the Fleet lay by, and a Council of War was call’d by the Commissioners (for such they had who were never Soldiers) with some few Officers of the Army, where it was resolv’d to attempt _San Domingo_, and an Order made, That in case it be taken, no Soldier should offer to Plunder, but that satisfaction in lieu thereof should be given by the Commissioners; the Officers of the Army in vain opposing and protesting against it, which occasion’d the Soldiers to say, That the Commissioners should take the Town themselves, for they would not; Lots were there drawn by the several Colonels who should first Land, which fell upon the Black Regiment, who had no Arms but Half-pikes of eight Foot long, made of Cabbage-Tree in the _Barbado_’s; And Orders were then given out to the several Colonels to Land at the River _Hind_, within two Leagues of _San Domingo_; so they steer’d their Course thither, as was thought, by Night, but the next Morning found themselves twenty Leagues at least from the place of Rendezvouz, though one Regiment Landed there, who durst not attempt the Town for want of Orders, though doubtless they might have taken it, had they not staid in expectation of the General and the rest of the Fleet; but when they were thus cast Leeward of the Town, they must Land their Men, who no sooner went on Shore, but the Order against Plundering was read, and the Soldiers in a Mutiny to whom it was read, which made the rest forbear to read it, judging it no time now to disoblige them, who had in their Officers opinion too just a cause of discontent: However this was made known to the rest, and discours’d as they march’d, That they had not thought to be under a Committee here, but they would make them weary of their Employment ere they had done: And this indeed was enough, besides the faintness and unusual Heat of the Countrey, to disanimate Men of good Resolutions, especially the ordinary Soldiers, whose hopes of Plunder is the chiefest prop to their Courage, and expected Gain the spurr to their Valour. After they had Landed their Men, next Morning early they march’d towards _San Domingo_; but before Noon the Heat and Drought which they felt made them sensible of their first Errour and Inadvertency, in coming from _England_ without their Necessaries; for through want of Bottles, which were left behind, and came not till three Moneths afterwards, the Men fell down dead in the High-ways, every one fainting and languishing, and crying out for Water: shortly after they met with a Field of Oranges, which was no unwelcome sight, with which they stor’d themselves; but ere they had march’d four or five Miles thought they had quench’d their present Thirst, and their Drought began to increase however, they march’d on, leaving some of their Men dead on the place, others fainting, were set upon the Troopers Horses till they came that Night to some Water, which gave them new life, and the Morrow early march’d again till they came within some Miles of the appointed Rendezvouz, where they heard of the other Regiment that Landed at the right place: And now having refresh’d themselves with Rest, Water, and Provision, they march’d to the taking of the Town; the General himself, with a small Party and a Guide, went towards the Town to find out some Water, which he knew the Soldiers would want, (not having Bottles to carry any) but as they were on their March, which was very leisurely by reason of the Heat, they heard a firing of Musquets, then making more speed in their March, supposing an Engagement, in the Highway, about a Mile from the Town, was found one of the General’s Secretaries, with others, dead; and not long after some came back to the General, and told him, That looking for Water with the Guide, an Ambuscade issu’d out, and had kill’d the Guide that should have shew’d them the place of Water, and some others; and although some which Commanded the foremost Regiments were very forward and willing to assault the Town, yet it was not thought fit so to do till the Army came up, by which time it was Night; and though they were then within half a Mile of the Town, yet the Soldiers were so impatient for Water, that they could not stay till the next Morning to assault the Town, but were forc’d to march back to the River _Hind_ about eight Miles; (and this Relater did at that time drink his own Water) there they staid till they had again refresh’d themselves, and then prepar’d for their Return to attaque the Town; and notwithstanding the March it self in a hot Countrey was irksom enough, yet they were forc’d to make the Soldiers to draw the Ordnance and other Carriages for want of Harness and other Necessaries, which were left behind; however, they willingly underwent it by Turns: And now a Forlorn was drawn out, and other Orders given for a March, especially it being taken notice of, that the Enemies manner of Fight was and would be by Ambuscades, a File in every Company were order’d to stand till the other came up, and to face to the Right and Left to the Woods, which were all along as they went, for fear of a Surprize; and the Forlorn marching near an old Fort, call’d _Jeronymo_, which we had been possess’d of before, but thought not worth the keeping, and fearing they might meet with some small opposition there, began to fortifie themselves, and took a Dram of the Bottle, which as they were drinking, and others eating a bit, suddenly rush’d forth an Ambush of about a hundred and twenty _Blacks_, with a _Spanish_ Commander in the Head of them, which so amaz’d and surpriz’d them, that some few onely Discharging, the rest immediately fled; the _Blacks_ quickly falling in with their Lances, and doing such Execution as the time would allow them; for presently the Alarm being taken, and Supplies marching out for their relief, the Enemy, who had done more than they could possibly expect to have done, retreated into their Fort, which they had better fortifi’d than before, and had planted some small Drakes there upon it; the Execution was so short, that they had not time either to strip or pick a Pocket, lest they had paid too dear for it. After this Defeat a Council of War was call’d, and there it was agreed the next Morning early to fall on upon that little Fort, and so proceed to the taking of the Town; but very early, as they were in that expectation, Orders came from the General to the Army to march back to the River _Hind_, for what reason this Relator (though a considerable Person) never yet knew; where after they had staid some time, that Miscarriage was question’d at a Council of War, and one of the chief Officers of the Forlorn order’d to have his Sword broke over his Head, with other disgraceful Impositions, and two Colonels of the Army were order’d to draw up the Causes of this Miscarriage to send to _England_; which, because ’twas thought would too much reflect on them in Power that were to supply them, was by those Colonels judg’d inconvenient, and so ’twas never done. The number of Men lost by Stragling, Sickness, and this unhappy Engagement, amounted in the whole to about two hundred and thirty. In a short time after this, it was order’d to Ship the Men; which done, after some Debates amongst the Commissioners what was best to be done, Provisions nor Utensils yet coming fit for the Design intended, which was to possess some considerable Place in the _Main_, it was agreed, That they should steer their Course for the Island of _Jamaica_; which they did accordingly, and on the tenth day of _May 1654._ with little opposition possess’d it: where the same Soldiers have shew’d not onely such Courage and Resolution upon all occasions, (in many and frequent Encounters and Invasions made by the _Spaniards_, not onely with Soldiers of those Parts, but such as have been sent from _Spain_, _Naples_, _Catalonia_, and other Places) as might speak them _English_-men but such hath been their Patience and Sufferance, as none of this Nation in the memory of Man have ever been put to, the Effects whereof their King and Countrey, ’tis hop’d, will have occasion to remember, to their immortal Honor and Renown. [Illustration: PORTO RICO] _Hispaniola_ is surrounded with several other Isles, as 1. Eastward appears _Saona_, full of pleasant Woods and Pastures, with Cattel feeding on them: in former times it produc’d much _Cazabi_ for the City _Domingo_; but since the _Spaniards_ murder’d all the Inhabitants _Anno 1502._ it hath never been inhabited. 2. The Rocky Shelf _St. Catalina_. 3. _Abaque._ 4. _Navaza._ 5. _Guanabo._ 6. _Tortuga_, abounding in Hogs, and 7. _Beata_, famous for the excellent speckled Wood which grows there, and a swift River, which oftentimes detains the Ships there whole Moneths. [Illustration] CHAP. XIV. Porto Rico, and Monico. [Sidenote: Bounds and Extent of _Porto Rico_.] Another of those call’d _The Isles of Barlovento_, is _Boriquen_, anciently so nam’d, but now more generally _Porto Rico_, from _St. Juan de Porto Rico_, its chief Town, is an Island fifteen Leagues distant from _Santa Crux_, to the North-West, and about as many from _Hispaniola_ to the South-East, but from the Continent or main Land of _Paria_ (which seems to be the nearest) a hundred and thirty, or a hundred thirty six, as some reckon. It lieth almost in a quadrangular Form, being suppos’d to contain about thirty Leagues in length, and not less than twenty in breadth, in eighteen and nineteen Degrees of Northern Latitude. The Island on the North, which is less fruitful than the South part, produces Gold, and is generally water’d with many Rivers. There is also Silver, Tin, Lead, Quicksilver, and _Azure_, us’d by Painters. The Rain generally falls there between _May_ and _August_. A little before, or in the beginning of Harvest, the Hurricanes breaking forth from the Clouds, rage in such a manner, that it is impossible for any Ships to endure the Sea, and a Northern Blast generally doth great damage to the Plants here. [Sidenote: _Sierra del Loquillo._] Ten Leagues towards the South-East beyond _Porto Rico_, appears _Sierra del Loquillo_, being a continu’d Ridge of Mountains which runs through the whole Island from East to West, extending both ways to the very Sea-shore. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Rivers.] Twenty three Rivers discharge their Waters also into the Ocean; amongst which the chiefest is _Cairabon_, particularly noted for ten Sugar-Mills which are erected upon its Banks. [Sidenote: Trees.] The Hills, Plains, and Valleys, are invested with variety of Trees peculiar to this place, as _Tabunuco_, which affords a medicinal Gum, good against Lameness, and green Wounds: it is also of great use to preserve a Ship’s Keel from the Worms. Another Tree call’d _Maga_, is everlasting Wood, and bears a great Flower like a Rose. The Leaves of the _Higillo Pintado_-Tree cures all manner of Bruises. The same power is also in the little Tree _Sancta Maria_; as likewise in another by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Balsamo_. The Body of the Tree _Zoyla_ is so thick, that fifteen Men holding Hands together, cannot encompass the same. The speckled Wood, and _Cassia Fistula_ grow also here in great abundance. [Sidenote: The poisonous Apple-Tree.] Here is likewise Apple-Trees, which grow by Rivers sides, or on the Sea-shore, whose Fruit is rank Poyson, and who-ever sleeps under the shadow of them, will certainly be Lame: The Fruit eaten generally causes Death; or if Nature be so strong in him that eats of it, to overcome the same, yet he is certain to lose his Hair. As hurtful is the prickly Herb _Quibey_, which bears white Flowers like Violets. [Sidenote: The Tree _Guiaba_.] But this Island receives the greatest prejudice by the Tree _Guaiaba_, because it grows in most places, and over-runs Plains and Hills, so spoiling all the Grass, between which and the fore-mention’d Tree there is such an antipathy, that none will grow near it. The Tree bears a brown Apple full of Kernels, which are eaten by Beasts and Fowls, and from which falling on the Ground when ripe, grow up in new Trees, which makes the Countrey a meer Wilderness: The Body of it is smooth and of a pale colour, the Leaves hard, and glittering, and grow two and two over one another; the Flowers have also five Leaves, in the middle of which rises a Crown like that on a Peacock’s Head: The Fruit, which is cover’d with a soft Doun, and somewhat longer than the _European_ Apple, when cut through, hath a pale red Pulp, full of eatable Kernels: before it is ripe, it is of a sharp taste, yet good boyl’d, but when ripe, of a most delicious and pleasant rellish; nevertheless too much of it causes a Lask: The Roots, which are red without, and white within, are juicy, sweet, and very long, the Leaves sallow and sowre of taste. [Sidenote: The Beast _Javaris_.] Amongst the strange Beasts the _Javaris_, _Opassum_, and _Tatow_ are the most remarkable. The _Javaris_ are taken for a sort of wild Hogs, and have short Ears and a Navel on their Backs, little Tails, some black, and some spotted white. [Sidenote: The _Opassum_.] The _Opassum_ is as big as a Cat, hath a sharp Mouth, the upper Jaw-bone hanging over the lower, long, straight, and broad Ears, and a very long Tail, bald at the end, which winds in a Circle; on its Back black Hair sprinkled with grey Spots, and with its sharp Claws climbs up the Trees, where it feeds on Fruit, and sometimes preys on Fowls. Nature hath furnish’d this Beast with a strange Bag under its Belly, whereof the in-side hath a far softer Doun than the out-side, in which the young ones lie and suck, after which the Bag opening, they creep out upon the Ground. The Males have also a Bag, which serves onely to carry their Young in, for they and the Females carry them by turns. [Sidenote: The _Tatow_.] The _Tatow_, which is arm’d with sharp Scales, hath the Mouth of a Hog, and at each Foot five sharp Nails: when it is Hunted, or goes to sleep in the Night, it draws its Head, Legs and Tail under its scaly Coat of Mail, like a Tortoise, and in that manner lies secure against all manner of danger. The Venison taken here is very delicate, but difficult to be got; for this Beast having a breathing-place in its Back, never tires with running, and when encompass’d by the Dogs, falls valiantly on those that are nearest to it, and often tears them in pieces. [Sidenote: Chief Towns and Cities.] The chief Towns in this Island, are 1. _Porto Rico_ it self, commonly call’d _St. John de Porto Rico_ (so term’d by _Christopher Columbus_, as being the first Land discover’d by him in the Year 1493. at that time when he could not perswade his Seamen, wearied out with continual hardship, from returning, if they discover’d not Land in two days) a strong and neat Town, built by the Command of _Philip_ the Second, King of _Spain_: It was attempted by Sir _Francis Drake_ in the Year 1595. without success, but a few years after taken by the Earl of _Cumberland_. 2. _St. Germans_, in the West part of the Island, three or four Leagues distant from the Sea. 3. _Arrecibo_, Westward from _Porto Rico_, where the most noted Haven is of those Parts, for all the others are full of Rocks and Sands. The antient Inhabitants of this Island maintain’d continual Wars with the Cannibals (probably the Natives of the Islands so call’d) who us’d every year to come thither: those that were conquer’d, as well of the one side as of the other, were eaten by the Conquerors, so that in effect, both sides were but a different sort of Cannibals. _Columbus_ Landing here, found a great House surrounded with twelve others, but all of them empty and desolate. This Island (which formerly is said to have been under the absolute Power of one sole King) the _Spaniards_ not much regarded at first, having enough to do with _Hispaniola_, where they found more Gold than on _Porto Rico_. [Sidenote: The building of _St. Germans_.] _Anno 1510._ _John Ponce de Leon_ obtain’d a Commission from the Court of _Spain_, to be chief Governor of this Island, and built _Caparra_, which Place was inhabited twelve years, notwithstanding it stood behind a scraggy Mountain, in a desart place far up in the Countrey; but their thirst after Gold, of which some Veins were discover’d there, made them dispence with all other inconveniences: yet at last beginning to be weary of this desolate and barren place of Settlement, they remov’d to _Guanica_, water’d by many Rivers, whose Sands had great quantities of Gold-dust. Not staying long there, they went four Leagues farther, and call’d their new Plantation _Soto Major_. Lastly, returning again, they setled themselves in the former Valley _Guanica_, and built the fore-mention’d Town _St. Germans_ by the River _Guaorabo_, which makes an inconvenient Haven. [Sidenote: The Situation, Description and Fate of _St. Juan de Porto Rico_.] _Juan de Porto Rico_ stands Eastward at the beginning of the North Coast, on a small _Peninsula_, joyn’d to the Island by an high _Isthmus_ call’d _Puente de Aguilar_. Near the Mouth of the Haven lies on a rising Hill the Fort _Morro Empinado_, built triangular by _John de Texila_ and _Baptista Antonelli_ (who also planted there forty Guns), and surrounded with the Sea, which renders it a well fortifi’d place. The Governor _Diego Mendez de Valdez_ had in it fifteen hundred Men and eighty Horses, when the fore-mention’d valiant Duke of _Cumberland_ with a far less number fell upon him in the Year 1597. and not onely took the City _Porto Rico_, but several other Fortifications; and besides an invaluable mass of Treasure he carried away eighty Guns. Sometime before this Defeat the _Spaniards_ under the Government of _Christopher_, Son to the _Portuguese_ Duke of _Camigna_, were Invaded by the Cannibals, and all that were then upon the place utterly destroy’d, none of them escaping but the Bishop and his Servants, who betimes fled away with the Church Ornaments; so that the Islanders from that time were put out of doubt that the _Spaniards_ were mortal, for they suppos’d them immortal when first they saw their great Ships, and heard the noise of their thundering Cannon. [Sidenote: The Casique _Yaguara_’s Experiment.] _Hugh Linschot_ relates, That the Casique _Yaguara_ threw a _Spaniard_ into the Water, to try whether he would drown or not, and seeing him wholly depriv’d of Life, he concluded by consequence that the rest of them were mortal, and thereupon he set upon them when they were seeking for Gold, and kill’d above a hundred and fifty of them. _Peter Martyr_ relates farther, That these People, though very expert in Arms, yet were oftentimes beaten by the Cannibals, who at one time carried above five thousand People out of _Porto Rico_ for their Winter Provisions. [Sidenote: The Avarice and Cruelty of the _Spaniards_.] Nor was their Condition better’d after the _Spaniards_ conquer’d the Island, for those that could not furnish them with Gold, were certain of Death: Nor were their Cruelties in other places undivulg’d to this People before their Arrival; whereupon (as is related by _Peter Ordonnez de Carellos_) the Casique _Hatvey_ being inform’d of the _Spaniards_ Approach, took an Oath from his Subjects, That they should never discover where the Gold lay, though they should be put to death for it; _For_ (said he) _Gold is their God, for which they make so many cursed Blood-baths where-ever they come; therefore throw the Gold into some very deep Waters, for when the_ Spanish _God is sunk, the_ Spaniards _will lose their Courage, and not plague us so much for it_. [Sidenote: Ceremonies of the old Natives.] Many were the Idolatrous Ceremonies of the old Natives of this Place, which would be too tedious to relate; but amongst the rest, they annually kept a great Feast, at which the _Casiques_ summon’d all their Subjects to a Temple appointed for that purpose, where the Priests had prepar’d an Idol ready set forth in all its Pageantry; near which the _Casique_ plac’d himself, when upon the beating of a Drum all the Commonalty came also into the Temple; the Men painted with divers Colours, having on their Heads Plumes of Feathers, about their Necks, Legs, and Arms, Strings of Sea-shells. The Married Women had a light Covering about their Middle, but the Maids went stark naked, all of them Dancing and Singing Songs in praise of the Idol; after which having saluted the _Casique_, they thrust little Sticks down their Throats, so to bring up all they had upon their Stomachs; which done, and sitting down with their Legs under them, they began to Sing anew, often bowing and shewing Reverence to the _Casique_; whilest some Women carried Baskets of Bread amongst those that Sang, and utter’d certain Prayers, which were answer’d by some of the Men; the Bread being bless’d by the Priests, they gave every one a piece, with which they return’d home very merry and jocund. But the God of this Island, whoever he was, hath been a long time left without Worshippers; for those that were left by the Invading Cannibals, were cruelly massacred by the _Spaniards_, insomuch that they have been thereby necessitated to furnish themselves with _Negro_’s to work in their Mines and Sugar-Mills; and these also not able to endure such hard Entertainment, ran most of them away; for when a _Negro_ did not bring Gold enough home at Night, his Master tying him naked to a Stake or Post, and beat him with Rods or Switches so long, till the Blood ran down his Back, then pour’d boyling Oyl into the Wounds, and then threw Pepper and Salt into them, and so let him lie, or else put him into a Pit, out of which his Head appear’d onely. But those that fled gathering together, sometimes met with the _Spaniards_, and paid them in their own Coin. [Sidenote: The Islands _Mona_ and _Monico_.] Eastward of _Porto Rico_, and betwixt it and _Hispaniola_, there lieth a little, but fruitful Island call’d _Mona_; and Westward of that, another call’d _Monico_, or _Monetta_; which last the _English_, when time was, found so admirably stor’d with a sort of wild Fowl, that the huge Flights of them seem’d to darken the Air over their Heads, and upon their Landing found such plenty of their Eggs upon the Shore and Ground thereabouts, that they presently laded two of their Boats with them. But how peopled or possess’d, not so well known. [Illustration] CHAP. XV. Cuba. [Sidenote: The several Names of _Cuba_.] [Sidenote: Its Bounds.] Westward, or rather to the North-West of _Hispaniola_, lieth _Cuba_, accounted one of the four Isles of _Barlovento_, and by _Columbus_, upon his first Discovery, call’d _Joanna_, afterwards _Fernandina_, then _Alpha_ and _Omega_, till at last the present Name prevail’d; it is parted from the other by a Frith, or narrow Channel, which runneth betwixt the Capes of _St. Nicholas_, belonging to _Hispaniola_, and that call’d _Mayzi_, belonging to _Cuba_: On the North it hath a Frie of little Islands call’d _The Leucayæ Islands_, of which more in their proper place, so many and so thick scatter’d, that they serve for no small Security and Defence of the Island on that side; besides, a part of the _Peninsula_ of _Florida_, which Coasteth it likewise Northward; on the West it hath the Countrey of _Jucatan_, which is part of the Continent, but at a distance of forty or fifty Leagues; and on the South, _Jamaica_. It is reckon’d to be in length from Cape _Mayzi_, which looks towards _Hispaniola_ to the Cape of _St. Anthony_, which is upon the Bay of _Mexico_, two hundred and thirty Leagues; but in breadth in some places not above fifteen or sixteen Leagues over; in the broadest place from _Jardines_ to _Lucanaca_, not above forty, in others sixty five. But for fertility of Soil, contending with _Hispaniola_ it self, and for temperature and healthiness of Air, much exceeding it; nor less rich formerly in good Mines both of Gold and Silver, and plentifully stor’d at present, not onely with Sugar-Canes of the best Growth, but likewise with abundance of Ginger-Roots, _Cassia-Fistula_, Mastick, Aloes, Cinamon, Long-Pepper of _America_, as they call it, and divers other sorts of Spices. The Pastures no less abounding with Cattel of all sorts, especially of _European_ Breed; the Rivers and Coasts of the Sea with good Fish; no scarcity of Fowl, whether wild or tame; good Brass and Iron still found, with some Gold in the Rivers, especially those which fall into the Bay _Xagua_ on the South side of the Island; the chiefest thereof are _Arimao_, _La Luna_, _De Mares_, and _Cauto_; the biggest of them falls Southward into the Sea; all of them breed store of Crocodiles, which have oftentimes seiz’d both upon Men and Beasts, and carrying them into the Water, devour’d them there. [Sidenote: Trees.] The Cedars breathe forth a most excellent sweet smell, and grow so large, that out of the single Trunks of some of them Boats are said to have been made, capable to hold forty, sometimes sixty Men. There are also many other very odoriferous Trees, yielding a certain Rozen or Gum, no less precious than the _Storax_. [Sidenote: Birds.] But nothing grows here more plentifully than Vines, the Bodies or Stocks of which are as thick as a Man’s Middle, and bear excellent Grapes. Besides Partridges, Turtle-Doves, and other Fowl, the Sea-shore breeds thousands of Cranes, which when young, are white, but when old, become of several Colours; they stand commonly with their Legs in salt Water, which they drink. [Sidenote: Manner of taking Parrots.] The Parrots which breed here us’d to be taken by the Natives after a strange manner: A Boy having a Bundle of Herbs about his Head, climbs up to the top of a Tree, holding a Parrot over his Head, which by griping he forces to make a noise, and thereby draws others to come flying about him; upon which, being expert in this Art, he throws a String with a Noose made fast to a Stick about them, and pulls them to him. There are a sort of four-footed Serpents, by the Natives call’d _Yguanas_, of which they us’d to eat. The Flesh of Tortoises or Turtles, was accounted a great Dainty amongst them, especially those of the biggest size, of which some have been known to weigh a hundred and thirty Pound: The Feet of them are said to cure the Leprosie and Scabs. Amongst the peculiar Trees of this Countrey, are the _Zagua_ and the _Caninga_. The Cotton, which is of the natural Growth of this Place, is exceeding fine. Here is also the Bird _Flamingo_, and another sort of Bird call’d _Bambayas_. In former times _Cuba_ was Govern’d by several Lords, each Commanding over his own Province. [Sidenote: Chief Provinces of _Cuba_.] The chiefest of these Provinces are _Mayzi_, _Bayamo_, _Cueyba_, _Camguey_, _Macaca_, _Xagua_, _Habana_, and _Uhima_; some of them are plain, others mountainous, and being more or less fruitful, were very populous, before the _Spaniards_ came thither, but since their cruel Massacres, scarce any of the antient Natives are left: Nor are the _Spaniards_ here at present very populous, considering the largeness of the Island. In the Province of _Camaguey_ is a Valley three Leagues in bigness, where Nature produces a great number of large Stones so exactly round, that no Man with a Compass can make a more exact Circle. Though the Gold, which is digg’d out of the Mines, and found in Rivers, is none of the purest, yet the Copper which this Countrey affords is accounted excellent. [Illustration: HAVANA] [Sidenote: Serpents.] The Serpents here are about the bigness of a Hare, having Heads like Weezles; they prey on little Beasts call’d _Guabiniquinazes_, and have been accounted delicious and wholsom Meat. [Sidenote: Antient Customs of the Natives.] The antient Natives went formerly naked. The Men made it a Custom to forsake their Wives when they pleas’d; yet the Women were still oblig’d to be faithful to them, though from the very first day of their Marriage they were taught to Cuckold them, by a certain wicked Ceremony in use amongst them; for the Bridegroom lay not with his Bride the first Night, but suffer’d her to be enjoy’d by one of his Friends of equal Quality with himself, whether he were Lord, Merchant, Laboring-man, or what Estate soever. [Sidenote: The _Spaniard_ at first beaten by the Natives.] This Island was reduc’d under the _Spanish_ Government not without great effusion of Blood; for the Natives having had continual Wars with the Cannibals, as hath been said, were not ignorant in the Exercise of Arms. The first _Spanish_ Commander sent against them was _Valdivia_, whom they slew with all his Men, and hew’d his Ship in pieces. Little better escap’d _Fogeda_, whose Men were all cut off, and he himself escaping very miraculously, died not long after of his Wounds in _St. Domingo_. [Sidenote: _St. Jago_ built by _Valasquez_.] Within two years after, _viz._ _Anno 1514._ _Diego Velasquez_ with better success set forth for _Cuba_, where the first thing he did was to build a City, which he call’d _St. Jago_, lying near a Southern Bay, full of Fish, and defended with several small Isles, behind which the Ships in the greatest Storm may Ride very secure; by reason whereof the new City increas’d so much, that in a short time it could shew two thousand Inhabitants, a brave Church, a Cloyster, and was made a Bishop’s See, but subordinate to that of _St. Domingo_. [Sidenote: The Copper Mountains.] [Sidenote: _St. Jago_ taken by the _English_.] Three or four Leagues from the City are those famous Mountains, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Sierra de Cobre_, or _The Copper Mountains_, from the abundance of that Metal which the Mines in them afforded, and do yet afford; but the City was afterwards almost left desolate, (divers Houses in the same standing empty) having in it scarce two hundred Inhabitants; which made it the easier to be taken by a hundred and sixty _English_-men, led by Captain _Cliff_, _Anno 1601._ who carried from thence a hundred thousand Pieces of Eight, and a Ships Lading of Hides and Sugar. [Sidenote: _Baracoa._] 2. Besides _St. Jago_, _Valasquez_ built the Town _Baracoa_, on the Eastern Shore of _Cuba_, wash’d by the River _Mares_, which falls into the Ocean between two Mountains on one side, and a flat Point on the other, and is a most excellent Harbor: Not far from which grows the best Ebony Wood. [Sidenote: _St. Salvador._] 3. He also built the Town _St. Salvador_, one of the most healthful Promontories of all _Cuba_, near the River _Bayamo_, which produces round Stones, us’d there in stead of Bullets. [Sidenote: _Trinidad._] 4. He likewise built _Trinidad_, before which hardly accessible Harbor many a Ship hath been cast away: But this Fort was by a mighty Storm levell’d even with the Ground. [Sidenote: _Puerto del Principe._] 5. Near the Haven before the Town _Puerto del Principe_ is a Fountain, out of which at certain times flows liquid Pitch. [Sidenote: _Villa Sancti Spiritus._] 6. The Town call’d _Villa Sancti Spiritus_, six Leagues from the Ocean, boasts fifty brave Houses, and is wash’d by the River _Saaz_. [Sidenote: _Havana._] 7. The chiefest City which the _Spaniards_ possess in the _West-Indies_, and the present Seat of their Governor, is _Christovall de Havana_; which stood first on the South side of _Cuba_, but was afterwards built on the North, opposite to _Florida_: The Harbor before it is large and safe, for it is able to contain a thousand Ships, without the least endangering of one another, and yet the Entrance so narrow, between a Promontory and a square Fort, that two Ships cannot Sail in together: the shallowest part thereof hath six Fathom Water. On each side the Mouth of the Harbor is a Fort, the one call’d _Mesa de Maria_, which stands built on a Champain Ground; the other call’d _Morro_, which lies at the Foot of two Hills, on whose tops several Guns are planted, which Command the Town and Haven. Betwixt these two Forts is a Tower cover’d, on the top whereof is a round Lantern, wherein stands continually a Watch-man, who puts forth as many Flags as he discovers Ships at Sea, to give notice thereof to the City, which is a Mile from thence. Before _Havana_ stands a third Castle, well stor’d with Guns, as likewise the rest are, in all to the number of two hundred and forty, and strongly Garrison’d; of which great care was taken by the General _Jean de Texeda_, and _Baptista Antonelli_, an Architect, sent thither by _Philip_ the Second, King of _Spain_, to secure the Place from all foreign Assaults, because the Plate-Fleet, and other Ships that come out of the _West-Indies_, have their place of Rendezvouz here, and from hence set Sail altogether for _Spain_. The City stands along the Haven, and hath two Churches with spiry Steeples. The Houses are now built after the _Spanish_ manner. [Sidenote: _Havana_ several times Assaulted and taken.] But _Havana_ was not so strongly fortifi’d in former times, for _Anno 1536._ it could not resist a mean _French_ Pyrate, who losing the rest of his Fleet was driven hither by Storm, and conquering _Havana_, had burnt the same, consisting at that time of woodden Houses cover’d with Thatch, had not the _Spaniards_ redeem’d them from the Fire for seven hundred _Ducats_; with which Money the _French_ set Sail, when the day following three Ships arriv’d from _New Spain_ before _Havana_, and having unladed their Goods, and preparing themselves for Battel, pursu’d the Pyrate; whom getting sight of, the Admiral, who Sail’d before, durst not venture to Engage him alone, but staid for the other two Ships: from which cowardly Action the _French_ Pyrate taking Courage, fell on the _Spanish_ Admiral, who without firing a Gun ran his Ship ashore, and deserted the same: the next Ship thereby discourag’d Tacking about, made away from the Enemy; on which the third also follow’d, insomuch that at last they were all three taken by the _French_; who encourag’d with this unexpected Victory, steer’d their Course a second time to _Havana_, where they got as much more Money from the Inhabitants as before. After this the _Spaniards_ built all their Houses of Stone, and a Fort at the Mouth of the Harbor, yet nevertheless the City lay open on the Land side; of which the _English_ Fleet, Cruising about in those Seas, being inform’d, Landed not far from _Havana_, and enter’d the City before Day-break: the _Spaniards_ thus suddenly surpriz’d, fled into the Woods, whilest the _English_ plunder’d and ransack’d the City without any resistance. But this was not the last Blow which _Havana_ receiv’d, for during the Wars between the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth, and the _French_ King _Henry_ the Second, a Ship set Sail with ninety Soldiers from _Diep_ to _Cuba_, where they made themselves Masters of _St. Jago_, and carried great Treasure away with them: Thus enrich’d, they set in the Night on _Havana_, but found their Expectations frustrated, for all the Houses were empty, the _Spaniards_ (being so often Plunder’d) having remov’d all their Goods to their Countrey Houses, which lay scattering about the Island. Whilest the _French_ were searching the Houses, two _Spaniards_ came under pretence of agreeing with them, but their Design was chiefly to take an Account of their Enemies Forces. The _French_ demanded six thousand _Ducats_ of them: to which the two _Spaniards_ reply’d, That all their Goods would not raise so much: then going to their Party, inform’d them of the number of the Enemies, and their Demands; whereupon Consulting, some judg’d it best to comply with a forc’d Necessity, and if they could not get any thing abated, to pay the demanded Sum: but most of them were of another opinion, alledging, That the number of the _French_ was not equivalent to their Demands, and that it would not be for their Credit, to yield up their Estates so tamely, without trying their Title by the Sword: This being judg’d fittest, they march’d to Engage them with a hundred and fifty Men, which about Midnight fell on the _French_, and at the first Onset slew four of them; but upon the firing of the Gun they were all alarm’d, and after a small Skirmish, put the _Spaniards_ to flight. The Conquerors enrag’d at this treacherous Plot of the _Spaniards_, set fire on _Havana_, in which at that time was a good quantity of Pitch and Tarr; with which the Gates, Windows, Roofs, and Pent-houses being all bedaub’d over, were in few hours all in a light Flame; after which the Churches in order for their firing, were also going to be over-laid with the same combustible Matter; at which a _Spaniard_ boldly desir’d, that the Temples erected for Gods Service might be spar’d: to which he was answer’d, That People who keep not their Promise, nor had any Faith, had no need of Churches to profess their Faith in. The _French_ not satisfi’d with burning, pull’d down the Walls, and utterly demolish’d the Fort. [Sidenote: The Haven _Xagua_.] The Haven _Xagua_ also is not inferior to any, the Mouth thereof being a Boweshot wide, and within, ten Leagues: The Ships are securely shelter’d behind three Islands, and also the Mountains, which rise along the Shore. [Sidenote: The Success of Admiral _Peter Hein_.] Moreover, the Inlet _Matanca_ is not onely eminent, by reason of the round Mountain _Elan de Matancas_, which rises from a low Ground; but chiefly for the Expeditions of Admiral _Peter Peterson Hein_, who being sent out by the _West-India_ Company, to Cruse up and down before _Havana_ with one and thirty Sail, was from thence by a strong Current driven down to _Matanca_; where he stood from the Shore, when ten Ships came just running amidst his Fleet, and were all taken but one: About Noon they discover’d nine Ships more, which Sailing along the Shore, got into the Inlet _Matanca_, where they ran aground; whither _Hein_ following, came up to them the next Morning by Break-of-day, and after a small Resistance took them, being valu’d to be worth above a hundred and fifteen Tun of Gold, besides the Musk, Ambergreece, and _Bezoar_ with which two other Ships were laden, and another rich Prize. This large Island _Cuba_ (as we have before observ’d) formerly divided into so many populous Territories, is now in a manner desolate; for according to the _Spaniards_ Relation to the Admiral _Henry Jacobson Lucifer_, when he was before _Havana_, _Cuba_ had upon it not above sixty thousand Persons in all, in _Anno 1627._ But who-ever Reads that which Bishop _Bartholomeo de las Casas_ hath written in his Book, (Printed first in _Sivill_ in the _Spanish_ Tongue, and afterwards, with the King of _Spain_’s leave, in _French_ at _Antwerp_) will easily find the reason, why _Cuba_ and many other _Indian_ Countreys lie so desolate; and how sensible the _Indians_ were of the _Spaniards_ usage, appears by this following Story, related by the said Bishop, of a _Casique_ call’d _Hathuey_, who before the _Spaniards_ approach’d his Countrey, _Anno 1511._ fled from _Hispaniola_ to _Cuba_; where afterwards he was taken by the _Spaniards_, and condemn’d to be burnt alive with green Wood: whilest he was tying to a Stake, a _Franciscan_ Monk Preach’d to him the Mysteries of the _Christian_ Religion, of which he had never heard; and likewise that he should ascend up to Heaven if he dy’d in that Belief; but if not, burn perpetually in Hell: Whereupon _Hathuey_ asking the _Franciscan_, If there were any _Spaniards_ in Heaven? and being told there were, answer’d, _I will rather converse amongst the Devils in Hell, than amongst the_ Spaniards, _whose Cruelty is such, that none can be more miserable than where_ Spaniards _are_. Before we conclude the Description of _Cuba_, it will be material to add some Passages of a Letter from Major _Smith_, Governor of the Isle of _Providence_, who was taken there in the Year 1665. which will give light to the knowledge of the present State, not onely of _Cuba_, but of some other parts of _America_, belonging to the _Spaniards_; which is as followeth: [Sidenote: Maj. _Smith_’s Letter concerning _Cuba_ and other Parts.] _Cuba_ is a very good Island, and in it is generally the best Land, for so large a Countrey, as I have seen in _America_, although I have travell’d the main Continent in several places, and have cross’d from the North Sea to the South Sea, as also the North side of _Hispaniola_, and most parts of _Jamaica_. This great Island is easie to be conquer’d, and would make the best Plantation, besides the prejudice it would be to the _Spaniard_, and the great advantage to our Nation; for instance, Had we the Port and City of _Havana_, which might in all probability be reduc’d with two Regiments of good Soldiers from _Jamaica_, carrying with them two or three Sloops or Shallops for Landing Men, fitted with good Arms and other Necessaries for an Assault, presently after their Armado hath pass’d out of the _Indies_, which is once in two years, towards the latter part of the Summer. There is good Landing on the West side of the City, where it lies open; and you need fear no Ambuscado’s: but not on the East side on the Harbor, for there you will be gawl’d by the strong Castle of the _Moare_, until the City be secur’d; but when that is once taken, you may easily reduce that Castle also, there being no danger of their re-taking it, until the next Armado arrives there, which will be almost two years, against which time you will have Planters enough from other of our Islands, to Manure the Land, and assist the Soldiers in defence thereof: This once effected, would utterly ruine the _Spaniards_, for these Reasons: Our Ships lying both here and at _Jamaica_, would be at all times ready to gather up their stragling Fleet, which it is difficult to keep imbodied without the help of that Port of _Havana_, it being impossible for their great unruly Ships to turn up to Windward from the Bay of _Mexico_, or _Puerto Bello_, without separation; and on the other side, to pass the Gulf of _Florida_, is for them as impossible, where they always Rendezvouz, Victual, Water, and provide all things necessary for their Return into _Spain_; after all which they diligently wait for a convenient Season of Winds and Weather (being much observ’d from the Changes of the Moon) when to pass that dangerous _Straight_: for to say truly, the _Spaniards_ are neither very fit for Sea nor Land-Service, excepting some Officers and Soldiers bred in _Flanders_ for Land-Service, and a few _Biscainers_ for Sea-Affairs. They are so sensible of their Weakness, and jealous of their Riches in those Parts, that it is very difficult for any ingenious Man to get his Liberty, being once taken, fearing he might give such Intelligence, as to be thereby the cause of their ruine, witness their blind-folding of all Strangers, when they pass their Cities and Castles; for they much dread an old Prophecy amongst them, _viz._ _That within a short time the_ English _will as freely walk the Streets of_ Havana, _as the_ Spaniards _now do_; which indeed had been easily perform’d with a third part of the _English_ Army sent to _Jamaica_, and a far greater advantage to the Nation: for I esteem that Port and Harbor of _Havana_ in the _West-Indies_, equivalent (against that Nation) to _Tangier_ in the _Straights_ of _Gibraltar_; and if we were at once Masters of both, it would without doubt so straiten the _Spaniards_, as absolutely to admit us a free Trade into their Ports of _America_, where they impart our Commodities, and sell them for ten times more than they first cost in _Spain_, by reason of the great plenty of Silver: which Trade would not onely be of infinite advantage to us, but also prevent them of their future enslaving of our Nation in Chains as now they do; for being employ’d about their Fortifications, they are worse us’d, all things consider’d, than if they were taken by the _Turks_. [Illustration: JAMAICÆ] I have seen other parts of the _West-Indies_, where the _Spaniards_ might be fleec’d of considerable quantities of Riches, as at _Panama_, where their Silver Bars lie pyl’d up in Heaps in the open Streets Day and Night without Guard for five or six Moneths together, waiting the arrival of the Armado; which when arriv’d in _Puerto Bello_, they Transport it thither with so slender a Guard, for so great a Treasure, as would be an easie Prey to a thousand resolv’d Men (although of extraordinary value for so small a Charge;) but here is no resting, nor long remaining, they being so numerous (as in all other places of the main Land) though of great Wealth, and easily gotten with a Catch and away: But to my purpose, This Island of _Cuba_ hath adjacent to it great Conveniences of Salt and Fishing; and in it are very great plenty of Horses, Neat, Sheep, and Hogs, both wild and tame, of a far larger and better breed than any other parts of _America_: It hath also many very rich Mines of Copper already open, and is the onely Place that supplies all the _West-Indies_ with Metal for the infinite number of Ordnance they have in all their Ports and Castles, both in the North and South Seas; but whether it hath any Mines of Silver or Gold, I know not; but if there were any such, they would not adventure their opening and discovery, fearing the Invasion of that Island, whereunto is so easie access by Sea, and of so great import to their whole Interest in _America_: for which reason also they refuse to work any Mines in _Florida_, that are nigh the North Sea, (although they have there very many) but do rather employ themselves about others farther up in the Countrey, although with greater Labor and Cost, for conveyance of the Product by Land to _Mexico_. And lastly, (for its full praise) this Island hath many very good Ports and Harbors of great advantage to Ships, for safe passing the Gulf; and should the _Spaniards_ keep three or four Frigats always plying between the Western end of _Cuba_ and that of _Havana_, off and on, it were impossible for any Ships of ours that came from _Jamaica_ to escape them; the Scales turn’d would be their Case to all _America_. Neither wants it great Sugar-works, which have Water-mills and Horse-mills, and very many large _Cocoa_ Walks, the most and best Tobacco: and in short, it produceth all other Commodities, that any of our _American_ Islands have knowledge of. [Illustration] CHAP. XVI. Jamaica. [Sidenote: Situation and Extent of _Jamaica_.] The Island of _Jamaica_ lieth North from the Southern Continent of _America_, in the Sea call’d _Mare del Nort_; and South from the Isle of _Cuba_ about twelve Leagues; and West from _Hispaniola_ twenty, in eighteen Degrees of Northern Latitude; and beareth from _Rio de Hacha_ North-West, a hundred and fifty Leagues; from _Santa Martha_ North North-West, a hundred and thirty five; from _Rio Grande_ North-West, a hundred and thirty; from _Carthagena_ North, fourteen; from _Porto Bello_ North-East and by North, a hundred and ninety; from the Bay of _Darien_, North and by East, a hundred and seventy; from the Bay of _Mexico_, a hundred and fifty. It is of Form something nearly resembling oval, being in length from East to West, about fifty four Leagues, or a hundred and seventy Miles; from North to South in the broadest and middlemost part, about three and twenty Leagues, or seventy Miles over, and so groweth narrower and narrower towards each Extream; in circumference about one hundred and fifty Leagues, or four hundred and fifty _English_ Miles. [Sidenote: Nature of the Country.] This Island is well water’d with Springs and Rivers, and is all over, especially in the Western parts, full of high Hills and Mountains: It is also well Wooded; for the North and South parts chiefly abound with tall and large Woods: Nor are there wanting every where _Savanas_, or Pastures, which are thought to have been Fields of _Indian Maiz_, till the _Spaniards_ arriving here, brought in Horses, Cows, Hogs, and _Asinego_’s to feed. [Sidenote: Temperature of the Air.] The Air in this Place is more temperate, and the Heat more tolerable, than in any of the rest of the _Barloventi_, by reason of the cool Breezes which constantly blow from the East, and the frequency of Showers of Rain, and refreshing Dews which fall in the Night. This is also the onely Island of the _Barloventi_, which is not subject to violent Storms and Hurricanes; and the Diseases which are predominant here, are onely bred by Intemperance, as Surfets, Feavers, and Agues, or occasion’d by ill Diet or Slothfulness. [Sidenote: Commodities of the Island.] The Commodities of this Island are very many; and first for Vegetables, the Sugars are so good, that they now out-sell those of _Barbado_’s 5 _s._ _per Cent._ _Cocoa_, of which there are many large Walks; and greater plenty by improvement may easily be produc’d. Tobacco, so good, that the Merchants give Six pence a Pound for it, and buy it faster than the Planters can make it. Indigo is producible in great abundance, if there were Hands sufficient employ’d about it. The Cotton of this Place is accounted very firm and substantial, and preferr’d before any that grows in the neighboring Islands. Of Tortoise-shell there is also good store, by reason that much of that sort of Tortoise is taken on this Coast. Here are also great variety of Dye-woods, as _Brasiletto_, _Fustwick_, Red-wood, a kind of Log-wood, and several others, besides divers of those that are accounted the most curious and rich sorts of Woods, as Cedar, _Mohogeney_, _Lignum-vitæ_, Ebony, _Granadilla_, and others, which are frequently Exported. Moreover, there are very probable testimonies, that there are Mines of Copper here, since both there have been those who affirm to have seen the Oar wrought out of one of them, and the _Spaniards_ report the Bells that hang in the great Church, to have been Cast out of this Island Copper. As for Silver, the _English_ are said to have been shew’d a Silver-Mine behind the Mountains, West of _Cagway_. Ambergreece the _Spaniards_ report to have been often found on this Coast. Salt might be made here in great abundance, there being three good Salt-pans; and Salt-petre hath been found in many Parts. Ginger is reported to grow better here than in most of the _Caribbee_ Islands; and Cod-pepper very plentifully; and also a certain kind of Spice call’d _Piemete_, being in the form of _East-India_ Pepper, of a very aromatical and curious taste, partaking as it were of divers species together: it grows wild in the Mountains, and is very highly valu’d amongst the _Spaniards_. Of Drugs and medicinal Plants there is here a very great abundance, as _Guaiacum_, _China_-Root, _Cassia-Fistula_, _Veuillard_, _Achiotes_, _Tamarinds_, _Contrayerva_, _Ciperas_, _Adiantum Nigrum_, _Aloes_, _Cucumis Agrestis_, _Sumach_, _Acacia_, _Misselto_, with several others, both Drugs, Balsoms and Gums. _Cochinele_ is produc’d by a Plant that grows in this Countrey, but it is not made without much care and curiosity, and the _English_ are not yet well experienc’d in the Husbanding thereof, besides that the Growth of the Plant is much obstructed by Easterly Winds. [Sidenote: Beasts.] There is here greater store of Cattel than in any of the rest of the _English_ Plantations in _America_, as Horses, which by reason of the great number of them, are bought very cheap. Cow’s, of a large size, and of which vast numbers are yearly kill’d. _Asinego_’s and Mules, both wild and tame, being a very serviceable sort of Cattel in those Countreys. Sheep, large and tall, and whose Flesh is counted exceeding good, but the Fleece worth little. Goats in great abundance, being a sort of Cattel very peculiar to that Countrey. But of all other Cattel, Hogs are here in the greatest plenty, both wild in the Mountains, and tame in the Plantations; and they are more in request for Food than any of the rest, their Flesh being counted both of a better rellish, and more easily digestible than the Hogs-flesh of our Parts. [Sidenote: Fish.] The Fish that is very plentifully caught in these Coasts is of infinite variety, and quite of another kind from what we have in this part of the World, the principal whereof is the Tortoise, which is taken in great abundance both on these Coasts, and in the Islands _Camavas_. [Sidenote: Birds.] The tame Fowl in this Place, are chiefly Hens, Turkies, and Ducks; but of wild Fowl infinite store, as of _Guinee_ Hens, _Flamingo_’s, Teal, Ducks, Wigeon, Geese, Pigeons, Snipes, Plovers, Parrots, Turtles, Parachites, Machaw’s, with divers others. [Sidenote: Fruit-Trees and other Plants.] Choice and excellent sorts of Fruits are here in great abundance, as _Cocao_-Nuts, _Mannes_, _Maumees_, _Supatas_, _Suppotillias_, _Avocatas_, _Cashuds_, Prickle-Apples, Pickle-Pears, Sower-Sops, _Custud_-Apples, and many others. For Timber-Trees, _Platanes_ and Pines. And for Garden-Herbs, Radish, Lettice, Parsley, Cucumbers, Melons, _&c._ The antient Inhabitants us’d two sorts of Bread, the one made of stamp’d Roots, and the other of Corn, which is Reap’d thrice every year, and grows with such success, that one Pint sow’n yields two hundred. They had a strange way to make their _Cazari_ Cakes of the Root _Juca_, which keep good a year: They first press’d out the Juice with great Weights, which if drunk raw, occasions sudden Death; but boyl’d, is pallatable and good. Potato’s are here in great abundance, and grow like Artichokes in a moist Soil, and shoot forth Leaves of a dark-green Colour, like Spinage; they spread upon the Earth by Stalks, and bear a Flower like a Bell, at the end of which grows the Seed: the Roots are generally White, but sometimes Red, Marble-colour’d, Yellow, and Violet; they are not onely pleasing to the Pallat, but accounted very wholsom when stew’d in a close cover’d Pot, with a little Water. But much daintier are the _Ananas_, which grow on a Stalk of a Foot long, surrounded with sixteen large sharp Leaves, between which grows a Fruit like a Pine-Apple, but much bigger, with an uneven Rind, of a pale Green, and inclining to a Carnation on a yellow Ground; on the top shoots out a red Bunch of Leaves and Flowers; the innermost Pulp melts on the Tongue, and is of so delicious a taste, that it exceeds all other Dainties; the Seed produces Fruit once. Of this Fruit there are several sorts, the chief whereof is accounted a special Remedy against a bad Stomach, Gravel, Poyson, and Melancholy. The Drink made of _Ananas_ is no way inferior to _Malvasia_ Wine. [Sidenote: A sort of sensitive Plant.] Here you may observe a remarkable Secret of Nature in a certain ever-green Plant, which grows either on the Bodies of old Trees, on the Rocks, or in the Woods; the Stalk whereof surrounded with Leaves, full of dark red Spots, bears a sweet-smelling Violet-colour’d Flower, the Leaves whereof as soon as touch’d, close up together and die, and according as they are held in the Hand a shorter or longer time, this strange alteration continues. [Sidenote: Ginger.] Since the _Spaniards_ planted Ginger on _Jamaica_, it hath grown there in great abundance; the Male Plant (for it is divided into Male and Female) hath generally bigger Leaves than the Female; the Stalks, which are without Knots, have more Leaves upwards than downwards, and spreads along the Earth, still take Root anew; when the Leaves wither, then the Ginger is commonly ripe, but it hath not that poinancy whilest green as when dry’d. [Sidenote: Cotton.] The Cotton of this Island (of which the Clothes and Hammocks that are made, are vended in most parts of the Western World) grows on a Tree of equal heighth with a Peach-Tree, with a straight Stem or Body, out of which shoot Boughs of an equal length, and at equal distance; between the Leaves, which are narrow and long, grow red Flowers, and from them, oval Cods, which when ripe, inclose the Cotton, and a Seed like Pepper. [Sidenote: Description of the _Alligator_.] Of hurtful Creatures here, besides the _Manchonele_, and a sort of Snakes call’d _Guaana_’s, wherein ’tis thought there is little or nothing of a poysonous quality; the most observable is the _Alligator_, with which many Rivers and Ponds abound; it is a very voracious Creature, but is seldom known to prey upon a Man; it moves swiftly and strongly forward, but turns slow; the biggest of them are about twenty Foot long, their Backs scaly and impenetrable, so that they are hardly kill’d but in the Belly or Eye; they have four Feet or Fins, with which they go or swim indifferently; are observ’d to make no kind of noise; their usual course for getting their Prey, is to lie on their Backs as dead, then with a sudden onset to surprize what-ever Fowl or Beast comes fearlesly near them; the best caution other Creatures have of them is from the strong smell that flows from their Bodies: to requite the harm done by them, they have something of vertue, for the Fat or Oyl of their Bodies hath been experienc’d to be an admirable Ointment for all kinds of Pains and Aches; they Lay Eggs no bigger than a Turkies by the Water side, still covering them with Sand, which heated by the Sun-beams, hatcheth the young ones, who naturally creep into the Water. [Sidenote: _Muschilli_ and _Merrywings_.] In some parts of the Countrey there are also a sort of stinging Flies, call’d _Muschilli_ and _Merrywings_, but the _English_ Quarters are little infested by them. _Hugh Linschot_ writes, That the antient Natives of this Place were a subtile and sharp-witted People, skilful in Handicrafts, and expert in warlike Affairs, above all the _Americans_ besides. [Sidenote: First Discovery of the Island.] The Island was discover’d by the _Spaniards_ under the Conduct of _Columbus_, who first built there the Town of _Mellilla_; which disliking, he remov’d again to _Oristana_; and finding that an incommodious and unhealthy Situation, he remov’d again to another Plantation, where he built a very fair Town, first call’d _Sevilla_, afterwards _St. Jago de la Vega_, consisting of about seventeen hundred Houses, two Churches, two Chappels, and an Abbey, being the chief, if not the onely Seat of the _Spaniards_ before the arrival of the _English_, for their _Estanchas_, or small Plantations, were committed wholly to the custody of their Slaves. _Diego_, the Son of _Christopher Colonus_, (or, as he is vulgarly call’d, _Columbus_) was the first that was constituted Governor of this Island, and sent _Juan de Squibello_ Commander, who upon their first arrival here committed such horrid Cruelties and Massacres, that (as the fore-mention’d _Bartholomeo de las Casas_ writes) five thousand Inhabitants were in a short time reduc’d to less than three hundred, multitudes being put to death in a most inhumane and barbarous manner, some roasted alive, others torn in pieces by the _Spanish_ Dogs, besides many other studied ways of Butchery, too dreadful to be read with patience; nor were they free from Civil War amongst themselves, which first began in this Island. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Attempts of the _English_ upon his Island.] The first and onely Attempters upon this Island since the _Spaniards_ made themselves Masters thereof, have been the _English_, who in the Year 1592. under the Conduct of Sir _Anthony Shirley_ Landed upon it, & got clear possession thereof, none of the _Spaniards_ that were then upon the Place daring to make the least resistance; but not thinking it worth the keeping, they soon deserted it, and made Sail back again for _England_: after which they remain’d unmolested for a long time, till in the Year 1654. a Fleet of _English_ was set out for _Hispaniola_ by _Cromwell_, under the Command of Colonel _Venables_, with a Design for the taking of _St. Domingo_; but meeting with ill success in the Enterprize, and being forc’d to quit that Island with loss of Men, and frustration of their hopes, they steer’d their Course for _Jamaica_, and on the tenth of _May_ in the Year abovesaid, with little opposition possess’d themselves of it. Upon their approach to _St. Jago_ the Inhabitants thereof deserted it, and betook them to the Mountains, gaining time by a pretence of Treaty, to secure their Women and Goods; and oftentimes making Incursions upon the stragling Parties of the _English_, slew and took many Prisoners by surprize: but being weary of this wild and irregular kind of living, they betake themselves at last to the Isle of _Cuba_, where many of them, the Grandees especially, were permitted by favour to continue, the rest being by the Vice-Roy commanded back, with promise of speedy and considerable Supplies; by that time this remnant of the _Spaniards_ was near tir’d out with hardship and necessity, some being very much discourag’d and driven to utter despondence of Mind, others destroy’d out-right, part of the long promis’d and expected Supply arrives, the greatest part being to follow soon after; but finding the Islanders so few in number, and in so sickly and necessitous an Estate, they would not joyn with them, but maugre all the Governor’s Perswasions or Commands, retreat to the North part of the Island, and there fortifie at a place call’d _Chireras_, expecting every day fresh Recruits; which not coming time enough, and their Quarters being discover’d, they were set upon by the _English_, and most of them either slain or taken Prisoners: not many Moneths after the rest of the _Spanish_ Forces Land, being in all about thirty Companies, with Ordnance and good store of Ammunition; who falling presently to make strong Fortifications at _Rio Novo_, are nevertheless in a short time utterly defeated by the _English_: Upon which, and several other ill Successes, despairing to re-gain the Island, they Ship off their Women and the richest of their Goods; and the _Negro_ Slaves grown Masterless, by the general either slaughter or departure of their Patrons, shake off their Obedience to the _Spaniards_, and constitute a Governor of their own, a _Black_, yet submit themselves, and own Subjection to the _English_ Government, the _Spaniards_ from _Cuba_, both by their Perswasions and monethly Contributions, in vain endeavoring to reduce them; onely some few there were that stood out, whom the rest not onely made it their business to discover, but help’d the _English_ to take them, insomuch that at last the _Spanish_ General not having above fifty Men left him, was forc’d to seek for Peace, and offer’d Terms of Accommodation; which the _English_ General would not be drawn to accept of, unless upon Condition that he should deliver up to Justice as many as were left of those that had barbarously murder’d any of our Men, either in time of Treaty, or after Quarter given. The _English_ in this Island are setled for above a hundred Miles along the Countrey from the Eastward. [Sidenote: Chief Towns.] Their chief Towns are 1. _St. Jago_, (built by the _Spaniards_, as afore mention’d) which lieth six Miles within the Land, North-West from the Harbor of _Cagway_. Here the _English_ have built a small Fort. 2. _Passage_, a small Town, built also by the _English_ six Miles from _St. Jago_, for the convenience of going to _Cagway_, consisting of about fifty Houses and a Fort, whence cross this Harbor, about three Leagues distant is the Town of 3. _Cagway_, seated on the Extream end of the Point, containing in it above six hundred Houses, all built by the _English_, besides the Governor’s Palace, and the Houses where the Stores for the Army are kept. This is counted the most healthful Place in all the Island, and the very Scale of Trade, where all Merchants, Strangers, and Sailors reside. Here, upon the utmost Angle of the Point towards the Sea, is a round Tower, built of Lime and Stone; about which is rais’d a strong and regular Fort, containing sixty pieces of Ordnance. [Sidenote: _Port Royal._] This Town is now call’d _Port Royal_, and is thought to contain about sixteen thousand Inhabitants. [Sidenote: _Landward._] A Mile from hence is another Fort, call’d _Landward_, which runs from the Harbor to the Sea, to defend the Town from any Attempt by Land. [Sidenote: _Little Island._] Off the Mouth of the Harbor towards the Sea, lie divers small Islands, the most Western of which being within half a League of the Fort, and between which and the Fort every Ship that comes into the Harbor is necessitated to pass: It is call’d _Little Island_; where a Fort is likewise rais’d, to defend the Mouth of the Harbor, containing eight pieces of Ordnance. Another Fortification is at _Portmorant_, which we shall make mention of amongst the Harbors. [Sidenote: Chief Ports and Harbors.] The chief Harbors of this Island, are 1. _Port Anthony_, on the North, a very safe Land-lock’d Harbor, onely the coming in is somewhat difficult, the Channel being narrow’d by a little Island that lies off the Mouth of the Port. 2. On the East of the Island is _Portmorant_, a very capacious Harbor, where Ships do conveniently Wood and Water, and Ride safe from all Winds. 3. On the South is _Port Cagway_, a Harbor wonderfully convenient, secure and capacious, being five Leagues over in some places, in others four, and at the narrowest, three; it is Land-lock’d by a Point of Land that runs twelve Miles South-West from the Main of the Island, having the great River that comes by _Los Angelos_, and _St. Jago_ running into it, and divers Springs about it, where Ships do conveniently Wood and Water. Here is every where good Anchorage, the Road being so deep, that a Ship of a thousand Tun may lay his sides to the Shore of the Point, and load and unload with Planks afloat. 4. On the West is _Point Megrill_, a Port very convenient and secure; to Windward from which, a little North-West, is the Seat of the old Town of _Mellilla_, founded by _Columbus_, as afore mention’d. The chief Plantations of this Island, are 1. _Portmorant_, above the Harbor before mention’d, and by the two Rivers that run into it. Here are good Plantations of Sugars, Cottons, Tobacco’s, _&c._ 2. Hence about ten Miles lieth _Morant_, where a thousand Acres of Land have been taken up for my Lord _Willoughby_, and a Company of Merchants. 3. Hence farther Leeward lieth _Yallow_, having good Plantations of Cotton, Tobacco, and other Provisions, excellent _Savana_’s, and some store of tame Cattel. 4. Thirty Miles hence, on the North side of _Cagway_ is _Ligonce_, where are excellent Plantations of Sugar, Cotton, and Tobacco, very pleasant _Savana_’s and some store of wild Cattel. 5. Twenty Miles farther West, nine Miles from the Harbor of _Cagway_, is _Los Angelos_, having some Plantations of Sugar, _Cacao_, and Tobacco, all which were old _Spanish_ Plantations, and are less considerable than those made by the _English_ in other places. 6. Eight Miles from hence, North-West, is _Guanaboa_, where likewise were some _Spanish_ Plantations, since improv’d by the _English_, who have very many excellent Plantations of Sugar, _Cacao_, &c. 7. Hence West South-West lieth _Guatabacoa_, a most pleasant rich and fertile part of the Countrey, abounding with Cattel, and excellent _Savana_’s. Here the _Negro_’s setled that revolted from the _Spaniards_, who are endeavouring to make some Plantations of Tobacco’s and Provisions, and with them are setled some few _English_, who have divers Walks of _Cacao_. [Sidenote: The several Governors of the _English_ in _Jamaica_.] The several Governors of this Island since the taking of it by the _English_, are as followeth: General _Robert Venables_ staid upon the Place about three Moneths after the taking of it, and at his coming away for _England_ he left the chief Command to Major General _Richard Fortescue_, who liv’d Governor about three Moneths; after which Lieutenant General _Edward Doyly_ was by the Army elected President; but upon his coming away soon after for _England_, Lieutenant General _William Brain_ was sent over Governor in his room; who living in the Government about three quarters of a year, did as it were bequeathe it again to _Doyly_, for he was chosen by vertue of a Blank Commission, wherein _Brain_ had inserted his Name whom he would have succeed, and remain’d Commander in Chief both by Land and Sea till His Majesty’s Restauration, and then by His Majesty’s Letters Patents was confirm’d in the Government, and so was the first that was Governor there for His Majesty: The next that succeeded was the Lord _Windsor_, upon whose coming away Sir _Thomas Muddiford_ was sent Governor, and after him Sir _Thomas Linch_, who remains Governor at present. [Illustration] CHAP. XVII. The Islands call’d the Lucaies. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of the _Lucaies_.] Having done with the four Islands of _Barlovento_, as they are term’d, _viz._ _Hispaniola_, _Cuba_, _Porto Rico_, and _Jamaica_, we come next to the _Lucaies_, so call’d, as some think, from _Lucaioneque_, one of the biggest of them; they lie over against _Florida_, Westward from the _Bermudas_, South-West and North of _Hispaniola_, and the rest of the _Barloventi_; and because they are but small ones, and lie so near the Continent, Geographers sometimes describe them as a part, or appertaining to the Continent. The chiefest of these Islands are _Lucaioneque_ afore-mention’d, _Bahama_, and _Guanahani_; _Lucaioneque_ is accounted the biggest of them all, and lieth in twenty seven Degrees between _Bahama_ and _Guanahani_. _Bahama_ lies nearest to the Coast of _Florida_, and gives Name to the _Straights_ so call’d, which run between the _Cape_ of _Florida_ and it, with such a violent Course and Torrent, that although it be above sixteen Miles broad, yet many times neither Wind nor Oars, can prevail against it; that though the Winds be prosperous, Ships cannot enter it; and if it be cross, they go with the Current; yet those _Straights_ the _Spanish_ Fleet must pass in their Return from the _Havana_ towards _Spain_. _Guanahani_ was the first piece of _American_ Ground discover’d by _Christopher Columbus_, and therefore by him call’d _San Salvador_, or _St. Saviour_, because that thereby he was deliver’d from the mutinous rage of the Seamen, who threatned to throw him over-board, if they discover’d not Land in such a time. There are besides a number of small Isles scatter’d up and down, which are generally comprehended in the number of the _Lucaies_; one is _Little Island_, encompass’d with a company of Shelves call’d the _Bimini_, so that it is hardly accessible: there goes a Tradition, that it hath been inhabited by very beautiful Women, the fame of whom drew many to attempt to Land there and take up their Habitation; in which Attempt many were cast away: There is said to be a Fountain in the midst of it, of such a Vertue, that whosoever drank of the Waters of it, had their Youth renew’d. Also three Islands, or rather Rocks, call’d _Los Martyres_, lying to the South-East of _Cape Florida_, and cover’d for the most part with a whitish Sand and a few Bushes growing on them: they seem at a distance to bear a resemblance of Men, impal’d, or bound to Stakes, as the Martyrs in the primitive Times usually were, which occasion’d the _Spaniards_ so to Name them; ’tis very dangerous to come too near them, but to have sight of them is of great use to Men at Sea; for by passing these Rocks, and leaving them on the South-East, they certainly know, that they are now entred the _Straights_ of _Bahama_, that is, that they have left the Ocean, and are fall’n in amongst those many Islands, which do, as it were, Barracado and Block up the Eastern Coasts of _America_, towards _Nombre de Dios_ and _Terra Firma_, as they call it, through which the Continent is sometimes dangerous, by reason of contrary Winds; and always such, that it requires the skill and care of an experienc’d Pilot to conduct the Ships well thither. The rest are _Abacoa_, twelve Leagues long; _Yuma_, twenty Leagues in length, and eight in breadth, between twenty four and twenty five Degrees; _Yumeata_, fifteen Leagues in length, between twenty three and twenty four Degrees; _Jamana_, seven Leagues every way; _Yabague_, ten Leagues likewise, and lying between twenty two and twenty three Degrees; _Magaguana_, twenty Leagues long, and ten broad; _Quagua_, ten Leagues every way, and lying between twenty and one and twenty Degrees; _Caycos_, five Leagues in length, and in the one and twentieth Degree; _Mackre_, in the twentieth Degree, encompass’d with Shelves; _Abreo_, environ’d also with Shelves, and fifteen Leagues long; also _Guatao_, _Cigateo_, _Guanima_, _Jabaka_, _Triangulo_, and several others. [Sidenote: The _Lucaies_ left desolate by the _Spaniards_.] On these Islands are no Inhabitants; those that did live there were a harmless simple People, and therefore the easier taken and carried away by the _Spaniards_ that have made them so desolate: Many of them seem of a good Mold, and the Latitude promiseth much fertility. The Air is certainly good and wholsom, and not so extream hot as other Parts of that heighth. There is scarce any Beast on them, save a Coney that hath a Tail like a Rat, but Pigeons and other Birds in great numbers. There is the Gum _Benjoin_, of the best and worst sort; _Guaiacum_, _Sasaparilla_, and _Sassafras_; and on some of them Red-wood and Ambergreece. Our _English_ Sea-men are little acquainted with these Islands, though they Sail round them yearly. [Sidenote: _English_ landing upon them.] In the time of the Rebellion one Captain _Sail_ and others, obtain’d a Patent, making thither on the Coast of an Island, which was call’d _Illutheria_; his Ship was wrackt, but the People recover’d the Shore with a few Necessaries. The Coasts of most of them are dangerous, and bad to make, and that Ship that shall be near or amongst them, must keep the Lead always going; but with a wary Pilot, and care in giving the Islands a fair Birth, they are easily recover’d. The _Spaniards_ know this Place well, and have a yearly Trade thither for the aforesaid Commodities, and amongst the Islands are Wracks of divers of their Ships. [Illustration] CHAP. XVIII. The Caribby Islands. [Sidenote: Situation and Names of the _Caribbee_ Islands.] The _Caribbee Islands_, as they are generally call’d, are a Row or Ridge, as it were, of lesser Islands, which extend themselves almost in fashion of a Bowe, from the Coast of _Paria_ as far as _St. John de Porto Rico_; they are otherwise call’d _The-Caraibes_, sometimes _The Camercanes_, and by some _The Islands of Cannibals_, or _Man-eaters_, (though this Appellation cannot in reality be more appropriated to these Islands, than to many other, either Islands, or Parts of the Continent of _America_;) lastly, whereas all the Islands between _Florida_ and _New Spain_, and _Southern America_, are by some comprehended all under the Name of _The Antilles_; yet the _Caribbees_ and the _Antilles_ are most generally, and, we conceive, most properly accounted the same; and they are so call’d, either as lying like a Bar before the greater Islands, or _Quasi Ant-Isles_, i. e. _Opposites Isles_; they lie all under the _Torrid Zone_, between the eleventh and nineteenth Degrees of Northern Latitude, and are twenty eight in number; but before we come to treat of each of them in particular, we shall take notice of the most observable of those things which are common to them all in general. [Sidenote: Temperature of the Air.] The Air of all these Islands is of a good temperature and healthy, and the Heat not so excessive in them at any time of the year, as might be conjectur’d from their Situation under the _Torrid Zone_, by reason of a gentle East Wind, which rising in the Morning, continues most commonly till towards the Evening, allaying the scorching heat of the Sun, and refreshing the Air; but the Nights are commonly very cold; and it is observable, that by how much the hotter any Day hath been, so much the colder the Night following happens to be; whereof this reason is given, That the Vapors rais’d in the Day-time by the Sun, and falling down condens’d at Night, do very much cool the Air; but it is never so cold as to Freeze. For half a year together Day and Night are equal in these Parts, and the rest of the Year the Day fourteen hours long, and the Night ten. From _April_ to _December_ there commonly fall here great Rains, and all that Season is accounted Winter, and the Drought and Heat of the other Moneths is taken for Summer; but the Woods of these Parts looking ever green, make as it were continual Summer. [Sidenote: Nature of the Soil.] The Soil is generally as fertile as in most places of _Europe_, and each Island furnish’d with fair Rivers, Brooks, Lakes, Springs, Wells, and other Sources of fresh Water, besides in many places Mineral Waters, which are us’d with good success in the cure of several Diseases; also out of some Mountains store of Brimstone is digg’d, and it is conjectur’d that there are not wanting Mines of Gold and Silver, if they were well look’d after; and there hath been often found Crystal upon the Sands by Rivers sides. [Sidenote: Vines growing naturally in the _Caribbees_.] The Vine, though wild, and naturally growing in the Woods, yet yields a very large fair Grape; and those which are cultivated in their Gardens or Vineyards, bear excellent Grapes twice a year, but very little Wine is made of them, in regard they find it will keep but very few days. [Sidenote: Wheat not apt to grow there.] Wheat in the _Caribbees_ grows up no farther than the Blade, and the reason is judg’d to be, because through the rankness of the Soil, and for want of Winter, this Grain springs up fast, and hath not substance enough left in the Root to supply it up to maturity; but no doubt but Barley, Rye, and those other Grains, to the ripening of which more Heat is requir’d, would thrive there very well. Besides Lemmon-Trees, Orange-Trees, Citrons, and Pomegranates, and other Fruit-Trees growing in _Europe_, there are very many sorts of Trees, Herbs, Pulse, and other Plants, of a different kind from those amongst us, and peculiar for the most part to these Islands. [Sidenote: Fruit-Trees.] Of Fruit-Trees, the most observable are the _Goyavier_, somewhat resembling the Laurel, onely having a softer Leaf, and of a brighter Green; its Fruit about the bigness of a Pearmain, but full of little Kernels like a Pomegranate. The _Papayer_, which is of two kinds, one generally growing in all the Islands, the other proper to _Santa Crux_; the first hath a Leaf not much unlike that of the Fig-Tree, and the other bears a Fruit about the bigness of a Melon, which by the _Portuguese_ is call’d _Mamao_, from its resemblance of a Womans Breast: the Tree is hollow and spungy within, and grows up sometimes to the heighth of twenty Foot. The _Monick_, call’d by the Islanders _Corsot_, from the Name of an Island from whence the Seeds were first brought by the _Dutch_, and bearing a Fruit like a small Cucumber not perfectly ripe. The _Junipa_, or _Jenipa_, by the _Portuguese_ call’d _Jenipapo_; and by the _Brasilians_, _Jenipaba_; having Leaves like those of the Walnut-Tree, Flowers like the _Narcissus_, and a Fruit like a bak’d Apple, which when it falls from the Tree makes a noise like the Report of a Gun discharg’d, which is said to proceed from the bursting forth of the Seed out of the thin Skin enclosing it, and breaking with a violence; the Juice of it Dyes of a Violet-colour, and the Swine and Birds that feed upon it, are said to have their Flesh and Fat of the same colour. A sort of Vine commonly call’d _The Raisin-Tree_ and by the _Caribbeeans_, _Ouliem_; whose Fruit being like a large Violet-colour’d Grape, hath in stead of the several small Grain-stones which are inclos’d in the Husks of common Grapes, one hard Stone, like that of a Plumb. The _Acajou_, bearing for Fruit a kind of Chesnut, in form of a Hares Kidney, which serves for a Crest to a very fair Apple that by degrees grows under it, of which the Islanders make a Drink, very much in esteem amongst them, being of an excellent taste. The _Icaco_, a kind of small Plumb-Tree, so much coveted, and held for a Delicacy by some People that live near the Gulf of _Hondures_, that they are from thence call’d _Icacos_. The _Monbain_, which Fruit being a kind of yellowish Plumb, is chiefly made use of to mix in the Drinks of _Ouicon_ and _Maby_, to make them taste the better. The _Courbury_ is by some reckon’d to be but a species of the _Monbain_, onely more full of Leaves, and growing higher and bigger; but the Fruit of the _Courbury_ is sufficiently different from that of the _Monbain_. The _Indian_ Fig-Tree, differing in Leaf from the common Fig-Tree, but whose Fruit both in figure and taste is not much unlike the Fig growing in these Parts: This Tree is commonly of such a vast Bulk, that the Branches of some of them have been seen to afford shelter to two hundred Men. A kind of Service-Tree, differing from ours, by its exceeding heighth, fair Leaves, and pleasant Fruit. The Prickly or Thorny Palm, so call’d from its being arm’d all over with Prickles, both Trunk and Leaves; by incision into its Branches a sort of Wine is made, and it is conjectur’d to be the same Tree which the _Brasilians_ call _Ayry_. The _Franc_-Palm, an exceeding high and streight Tree, bearing on the top of its Trunk a whitish marrowy substance, by the _French_ call’d _Choude Palmiste_, or _Palm-Cabbage_; for being boyl’d with the thin Leaves that incircle it, and well season’d, it is reckon’d amongst the Delicacies of the _Caribbees_. _Latanier_, another kind of _Palm_; and _Cocoa_, which is also reckon’d amongst the several sorts of Palms; this last is a Fruit-Tree famous all over _America_, and hath been at large describ’d elsewhere. There are also many other Trees fit for Dying, Joyners Work, and Building, (besides the _Acajou_ before mention’d, of the single Trunks whereof are made those long Shallops call’d _Pyrages_, which are able to carry fifty Men) as The _Acomas_, of the same bulk and heighth with the _Acajon_, and equally esteem’d by Joyners and Carpenters, and of the Fruit whereof the Woodquists grow fat at a certain time of the year. The Rose-wood, to be rank’d amongst the chiefest of those Trees that are made use of by Work-men. _Indian_ Wood, a very precious and useful Tree for several sorts of Materials, and of a very fine scent. The _Iron-Wood_, so call’d from its hardness, weight and solidity, above all that have hitherto been spoken of, and beyond either Cypress or Cedar for incorruptibility. _Brasile-Wood_, so call’d as growing most plentifully in _Brasile_. _Yellow-Wood_, denominated from its Colour, and much esteem’d for its usefulness in Dying green Ebony, easily taking the lustre of the true Ebony, and being very useful for the making of Cabinets and other curious Pieces of Work; It also Dyes of a very fair Grass-green. The _Roncon_, by the _Brasilians_ call’d _Urnex_, in the Husks, succeeding the Flowers whereof, which grow in little Bushes at the end of the Branches, is enclos’d a most rich Vermilion Dye, of a very soft and viscous Matter. Here are also many other Trees, either useful in Medicine, or other ways advantageous, as the _Cassia_-Tree, of the bigness and figure of a Peach-Tree; the long Pipes or Cods whereof, containing the Medicinal Fruit, are well known amongst us by the Name of _Cassia-Fistula_, and to be had at every Apothecaries. Medicinal Nuts, each Nut containing three or four Stones in so many Cells, every one of which is inclos’d within a thin white Pellicle, pleasant enough to the taste, and out of which is extracted an Oyl, us’d by the _Portuguese_ in several both Culinarie and Physical occasions. The Cinamon-Tree, so noted for its aromatick Bark; also _Sandal-Wood_, _Guaiacum_, and _Sassafras_. Cotton-Tree and Soap-Tree, whose Uses the very Names imply, and which Trees have been touch’d upon elsewhere. The arch’d _Indian_ Fig-Tree, the Bodies of which Trees have been antiently the sculking Holes and Retreats of the Inhabitants from their Enemies; the Bark is useful for Tanners. The _Gourd_-Tree, of the bigness and heighth of a great Apple-Tree, and of which are made most of the Houshold Vessels and Utensils, which are in common use at present amongst the Inhabitants. The _Mahot_-Tree, of the Bark of which are made Laces and Points. The _Manyoc_, or _Mandioque_, of whose Root the _Cassava_ Bread is made, and which growing in several places of _America_, hath been already taken notice of; as likewise the _Banana_-Tree, and that call’d _The Apple-Tree of Paradice_, otherwise _Adam’s Fig-Tree_, the Fruit being reported to be of a very delicious taste. Other Trees not known in _Europe_, are the _Maposu_, divers kinds of Thorny Wood, the Milky Tree, being of a venomous quality, the _Mancenilier_, and that whose Root beaten to Powder, and thrown into Rivers, intoxicates the Fish, with several others of less note. Innumerable sorts of Shrubs might here in like manner be reckon’d up, but the chiefest are, That remarkable Plant, anciently known by the Name of _Ricinus_, and commended for its Vertues by _Galen_ and _Dioscorides_. Coral-Wood, so call’d from its little Seeds, which being as red as any Coral, are us’d for Bracelets. The _Jasmin_, bearing a Flower of an admirable sweet scent. The _Candle-Wood_, so call’d from its combustibleness, by reason of an aromatick Gum which is within. The Herbs, Flowers, Roots, and Pulse which grow here, are some of them common in all parts of _Europe_, as Cabbages, Onions, Chibols, Melons, all sorts of Millets, Cucumbers, Citruls, Parsnips, _&c._ Others, if not peculiar to this Island, yet growing chiefly there, and in some few parts of _America_ besides, as the _Raquettes_, so call’d from the resemblance its Leaves have with a Racket, a thorny-spreading Bush, whose Fruit being of a Vermilion colour, makes the Urine of those that eat of it as red as Blood. Some liken this Plant to the _Tunas_, already describ’d, which yields that rich Scarlet Dye call’d _Cochinele_. The _Torch_, so call’d by the _European_ Inhabitants; by the Native Islanders, _Akoulerou_; a great Thistle, or thorny Bush, putting forth from the middle of it long streight Stalks like Torches, and bearing Fruit like a great Fig, not unpleasing to the taste. The _Lienes_, creeping upon the Earth, and spreading up and down like Ropes, and bearing brown Husks of a Foot long, wherein are enclos’d a Fruit call’d _Sea-Chestnuts_, of which are made Boxes to keep Snush, Tobacco, or the like. A sort of _Sempervivum_, which runs twisting upon Rocks, Trunks of old Trees, like Misseltoe, and sometimes on the Ground. A sort of sensitive Plant, call’d by the Inhabitants _Haestiel_, or _The Living Herb_; of which kind of Plant something hath been already touch’d upon, and which being transplanted, is kept in several Gardens of the _Curiosi_ as a Rarity. The _Sweet-Rush_, whose small Root dry’d, and reduc’d to Powder, helps Women in Travail. The _Balisier_, whose Leaf apply’d, mollifies and cools inflammations of Wounds. The _Dart-Herb_, whose Root bruis’d and apply’d, draws away the Venom of empoyson’d Darts; besides _Scolopendria_, a sort of Aloes, several kinds of Maidenhair, and other medicinal Herbs. The _Granadilla_, or _Passion-Flower_, growing in several other parts of _America_, and describ’d elsewhere. There is also a sort of Pease in some of these Islands, differing from ours, and call’d _The Pease of Angola_, as first brought from thence. Likewise a sort of Beans call’d _The Seven-years Beans_, by reason the same Stalk bears seven years one after another. The Herb call’d _The Musk-Herb_, from the dusky colour of its Flower, and the sweet scent of the Seed, grows also in these Parts very frequent. The _Pyman_, or _American Pepper_, is the same with that before describ’d under the Name of _Axi_. Their _Potatoe_ is a Root not unlike the _Topinambous_, or _Jerusalem-Artichokes_, otherwise call’d _Saligots_, growing plentifully in our Gardens, but more wholsome, and of a better taste. The _Anana_’s, or _Pine-Apple_, accounted a most delicious Fruit, of an admirable sweet scent, and very pleasant to behold, grow not onely plentifully in these Islands, but in most places of _America_; besides the Sugar-Canes here, and in many other places, but not so generally. The Plant from which is got the Dying Material call’d _Indico_, is very different from that which grows in _Madagascar_, which bears small odoriferous Flowers, of a white and purple Colour mix’d together. Of these Trees, Herbs, and other Plants, which are produc’d in these _Caribbee Islands_, some are more peculiarly of the Growth of one Island, some of another; so that we shall have occasion to speak more largely of some of them, when we come to speak of each Island in particular. The four-footed Beasts found in these Islands, are chiefly the _Opassum_, the _Javaris_, the _Tatan_, the _Agouty_, and the _Musk-Rat_, which being all of them no less known in other Parts of the _New World_, have been already taken notice of, and of which we may have also occasion to treat more at large in the particular Islands, we shall therefore onely name the other Animals, whether Birds, Reptiles, Insects, or Fishes, as partly having been heretofore treated of, and partly to be describ’d hereafter. The Birds are, the _Fregates_, _Fauves_, _Craw-fowl_, or _Grandgawsiers_, _Flammans_, _Swallows of America_, _Arras_, _Canides_, _Parrots_, _Parroquito_’s, _Tremblo_’s, _Sparrows of America_, _Eagles of Orinoca_, _Manstenys_, _Colibrys_, besides what are common amongst us, as _Herons_, _Coots_, or _Moor-hens_, _Black-birds_, _Feldivars_, _Thrushes_, _Turtles_, _Woodquists_, _Pintado_’s, &c. [Sidenote: Reptiles.] The Reptiles are, _Anotis_, _Zoquets_, and _Maboujats_ (of which farther mention will occur in the Isle of _St. Christopher) Globe-mouches_, nam’d by the _Caribbeeans_, Oulleouma, _Scorpions_, and several sorts of _Lizards_, call’d by the _Caribbeeans_, Ouamayaca; by the _Brasilians_, Senembi; and by other _Indians_, Jaquanas. [Sidenote: Insects.] The Insects are, besides these common with us, as _Glow-worms_, _Palmer-worms_, _Spiders_, _Bees_, &c. the _Cucuyos_, mention’d in _Hispaniola_, and the _Flying Tyger_. [Sidenote: Fishes.] The Fishes are, _Sea-Parrots_, the _Dorada_, by some call’d _The Sea-Bream_, by others, _The Amber-fish_; the _Bonite_, the _Needle-fish_, the _Epadon_, or _Sword-fish_, the _Marsovin_, the _Requiem_, the _Remora_, the _Lamantin_, the _Becune_, the _Sea-Urchin_, the _Sea-Woodcock_, besides _Whales_, and a certan Fish call’d, for its hideous shape, _The Sea-Devil_, and lastly, the _Sea-Unicorn_, with a particular Description of which we shall conclude, as having it from Monsieur _du Montel_, who was an Eye-witness thereof. [Sidenote: Description of the Sea-Unicorn.] “This _Unicorn_ (saith he) was pursuing a _Carangue_, or some other lesser Fish, with such earnestness and impetuosity, that not considering that it needed a greater depth of Water than the other, it stuck with half the Body dry on a Sand-bank, whence it could not recover the deeper Waters ere it was destroy’d by the Inhabitants: It was about eighteen Foot in length, being at the largest part of its Body about the bigness of a Barrel: It had six great Fins like the ends of Galley-Oars, whereof two were plac’d near the Gills, and the other four on the sides of the Belly at equal distances; they were of a Vermilion red colour: All the upper part of the Body was cover’d with great Scales, about the bigness of a Crown-Piece, which were of a blue colour, intermix’d with several Spangles of Silver; near the Neck the Scales were closer, and of a dark colour, seeming as it were a Collar; the Scales under the Belly were yellow, the Tail forked, the Head somewhat bigger than that of a Horse, and near the same figure: It was cover’d with a hard and dark-colour’d Skin; and as the Land-_Unicorn_ hath one Horn in his Fore-head, so this Sea-_Unicorn_ had a very fair one issuing out of the fore-part of his Head, about nine Foot and a half in length; it was as streight as could be, and from the place whence it came out it grew smaller and smaller to the very Point, which was so sharp, that being thrust hard, it would enter into Wood or Stone, or some more solid Substance; it was at the place where it came out of the Head, about sixteen Inches about, and from thence to two thirds of the length it was like a Screw, or, to say better, made waving like a wreath’d Pillar, save that the Channels grew smaller and smaller, till they gently ended in a Point, which was two Inches beyond the fourth Foot: All the lower part had over it an Ash-colour’d Skin, which was all over cover’d with a small soft Hair, short as Plush, and of the colour of a wither’d Leaf, but under that it was as white as Ivory: As to the other part, which seem’d naked, it was naturally polish’d, of a shining Black, mark’d with certain small white and yellow Strokes, and of such solidity, that a sharp File could hardly get a little small Powder from it: It had no Ears standing up, but two spacious Gills, as the other Fishes; the Eyes were about the bigness of a Hens Egg; the Ball, which was of a Skye-colour Enamell’d with Yellow, was encompass’d with a certain Vermilion, which had beyond it another as clear as Crystal: The Mouth was wide enough, and furnish’d with several Teeth, whereof those before were extreamly sharp, and those towards the Throat in both Jaws were broad, and a little knobbed: The Tongue was of a length and thickness proportionable, and cover’d with a rough Skin of a Vermilion colour. What was further remarkable, is, that this Fish had upon the Head a kind of Crown, rising above the Skin about two Inches, and made oval-wise, the Extremities whereof ended in a Point. Above three hundred Persons of that Island did eat of the Meat of it, and that plentifully, and thought it extreamly delicate; It was interlarded with Fat, and being boyl’d it came up in flakes like fresh Cod, but it had a much more excellent taste. “Those who had seen this rare Fish alive, and had with great Levers broken the Back of it, affirm’d, That he had made prodigious Attempts to thrust them with his Horn, which he turn’d with an inexpressible dexterity and nimbleness, and that if he had had as much Water under him as would have born him up, he would have been too hard for them all. When the Entrails were taken out, it was found that he liv’d by Prey; for there were within him the Scales of several kinds of Fish. “What could be preserv’d of this miraculous Animal, especially the Head, and the precious Horn fastned in it, hung up near two years at the Guard-house of the Island, till Monsieur _Le Vasseur_, the Governor of it, presented one Monsieur _Des Trancarts_ (a Gentleman of _Xaintonge_, who had given him a Visit) with the Horn. Not long after, coming over in the same Ship with the Gentleman, who had that precious Rarity put up in a long Chest, our Ship was cast away near the Island of _Payala_, one of the _Assores_, and all the Goods were lost, but nothing so much regretted as the loss of that Chest.” [Sidenote: The Natives how call’d.] The Natives call themselves _Cubao-bonon_, that is, _Inhabitants of the Islands_, and _Caribbeeans_; which last Denomination was not onely receiv’d amongst the _American_ Isles, but also on the Main Continent of the _Northern_ and _Southern America_, long before the _Spaniards_ coming thither. [Sidenote: Their Original.] [Sidenote: The _Cofachites_ come to Terms of Agreement with the _Apalachites_.] Concerning the original of these People, there are several Opinions; for those who make them to be Extracted from the _Jews_, have no other testimony, but that they abstain from Swines-flesh: Those that take them for a People fled from the great Islands, _Hispaniola_, _Jamaica_, _Cuba_, and _Porto Rico_, to save themselves from the _Spaniards_ Cruelty, dispute against a known Truth; for who knows not, that the _Indians_ who escap’d the _Spanish_ Slaughter, have not the least resemblance either in Language or Customs with the Cannibals? nay more, they are mortal Enemies to them; besides that, the Cannibals at that time when _Columbus_ first arriv’d, possess’d those Places which they now inhabit. The Cannibals seem ignorant themselves in this Point: for they affirm their Extraction to be from _Guyana_, where the _Calibites_ speak the same Language, and also observe the same Customs and Religion: The occasion of their removal they ascribe to the King of the _Arovages_, who made all the adjacent People about his Court, Slaves to him; which to prevent, they first went to _Tabago_, where being strengthned by new Comers, they resolv’d to take revenge on him; and Engaging with him in a Field-Battel, utterly defeated him, and spar’d none of his Party alive, except the Women; whence it proceeds, that the _Arovage_ Women have the same Customs and Language with the _Caribbeans_. But _Bristock_, an _English_ Knight, by long Conversation experienc’d in the several _American_ Tongues, saith, That the _Caribbeeans_ have their Original from the _Apalachites_ in _Florida_, who being a valiant People, destroy’d many of the Natives that inhabited _Mexico_, that so they might Settle themselves there; to which purpose they built a City like that of _Apalache_. The _Cofachites_ inhabiting Northerly, and spread over a barren and Rocky Countrey, made use of this opportunity to conquer their deserted Habitation: for on a set-time they set fire to all the Villages, and spoyl’d all things which they could not carry away with them, that not the least hopes of returning might be left them; therefore they must either Conquer or Die: which resolv’d upon, they fell unawares on the _Apalachites_, whose King had nevertheless so much time, that he Guarded the usual Paths which directed to the inhabited Villages: But the _Apalachites_ leaving the common Roads, climb’d over almost inaccessible Mountains, and so got into the heart of the Countrey, which exceedingly amaz’d _Paracousis_ (for so that King was call’d) who lay Encamp’d at the Foot of a Mountain, whether the Van of the _Apalachites_ were marching: whereupon he sending his Army to meet them, they began a most fierce Combat; when at last both Parties wanting Arrows, they fell upon one another with Clubs till the Night parted them; and neither could boast of the Victory. At last this War was turn’d into Peace, and the Articles of Agreement were these, _viz._ _That the_ Cofachites _should for ever possess the Province_ Amana, _and become one People with the_ Apalachites, _and acknowledge the King of_ Apalache _for their Chief Governor_. [Sidenote: They fall off.] [Sidenote: Are brought to worship the Sun.] After which the _Cofachites_ were call’d _Caribbeeans_, which signifies _Accidental Subjects_: But these two sorts of People did not long agree; for the _Caribbeeans_ sleighted the Customs of the _Apalachites_ in the Countrey _Bemarin_, and at the same time threw off their Obedience to the King, chose one _Ragazin_ for their Governor, subdu’d the neighboring Province _Matika_, and at last defi’d the _Apalachites_; who inferior to them in Strength, and making use of subtilty, suppos’d it the best way to make a Difference amongst the _Caribbeeans_ themselves; to which the Priests freely proffer’d their Assistance, and their Design prov’d also successful; for the _Caribbeeans_ regarding no Religion (onely dreading the angry Deity _Mabouya_) the _Apalachite_ Priests call’d _Jaova_’s, took great pains to perswade their Neighbors to the worshipping of the Sun; which so prevail’d, that a considerable number of them ascending the Mountain _Olaimi_, fell down and shew’d Reverence to that celestial Luminary; which Opportunity _Paracousis_ taking notice of, caus’d the _Jaova_’s to publish amongst the _Caribbeeans_, That in the beginning of the _Maairims_, or _March_, a great Feast should be held in Reverence to the Sun on the usual place, where the King would Entertain, and give Presents to all the Worshippers thereof. [Sidenote: The Sun generally worshipp’d by the antient _Heathens_.] How great a Religion this Sun-worship was antiently amongst the _Gentiles_, appears from the Writings of several authentick Authors. The _Syrians_, whose Idolatry the _Israelites_ learn’d, honor the Sun by the Name of _Babal_, which signifies _Lord_. The _Phenicians_ call’d the Sun _Beel-samen, Lord of the Heavens_; and the Citizens of _Accaron_, _Baal-zebahim_, _Lord of the Offerings_; but God chang’d the Name to _Baal-zebub_, or _The God of Flyes_. _Moloch_, or _Milcom_ also signifi’d the Sun amongst the _Ammonites_; in honor of which Children were carried by their Parents, and set between two great Fires, or else by the Priests, upon pretence of cleansing them; and sometimes parch’d to death in an Image of _Moloch_, which had seven Cavities heated like Ovens. _Macrobius_ tells us, That the _Assyrians_ ascrib’d the supream Command to the Sun, under the Name of _Adad_, and to the Goddess _Adargatis_, representing the Image of _Adad_ with Beams darting downwards, and _Adargatis_ with those that shot upwards: by the first they express’d, that the celestial Power consisted in Sun-beams, which shooting downwards warm the Earth; and by the second, that all things by those Beams were cherish’d and enliven’d. The most magnificent Temple which _Syria Apamena_ boasted, was Consecrated to the Sun. The _Arabians_ Offer’d Myrrhe on the tops of their Houses at the Rising of the Sun; who also was the _Chamos_ and _Baal-Peor_ of the _Moabites_ and _Medians_. Near the _Red-Sea_, lay the City _Baisamsa_, which signifies _The House of the Sun_, famous for the many Feasts which were kept there in honor of this Planet. The _Persians_ accounted this Luminary for the greatest God, and Consecrated to him three several Feasts, looking upon him as the Author of Wisdom, Goodness, and Power, and is express’d by three several Operations, _viz._ Warmth, Light, and Distinction of Time. The _Egyptians_ honor’d the Name of _Osiris_, whom some will have to be the same with _Misraim_, or _Chamszoon_, the first Founder of the _Egyptian_ Monarchy. In _Egypt_ also was famous amongst many other Cities that of _Heliopolis_, which signifi’d _The City of the Sun_; where the Ox _Mnevis_ or _Menapis_ being Consecrated to the Sun, was religiously worshipp’d. This Image is describ’d by _Macrobius_. The _Moors_ made likewise great Offerings to their _Assabin_, for so they call’d the Sun; and allow’d their Priests onely the priviledge to gather Cinamon, and that with this _Proviso_, That they should first Offer forty four Oxen, besides Goats and Rams, to _Assabin_, nor should fetch the least Stick of Cinamon either immediately before or after Sun-set: The Cinamon brought altogether, was to be divided by the Chief Priest, and the rest having each their Portion assign’d, that which remain’d was sold to the Merchants, to Trade with into Foreign Parts; but if the Sun chanc’d to set the Cinamon on fire, then they concluded they had not dealt justly. The _Greeks_, according to _Proclus_, hung a long Pole full of Laurel and Flowers on every seventh day of the Moneth; on the top thereof was a great Copper Ball, from which hung others still lesser and lesser; about the middle of the Pole hung three hundred and sixty five Garlands; and the bottom thereof was cover’d with a Womans Garment of a yellow colour: The uppermost Ball represented the Sun, the lesser the Stars, and the Garlands the Days of the Year; in which manner they worshipp’d the Sun. [Sidenote: Why Divine Worship so generally given to the Sun.] The same Luminary the _Massagetes_ and old _Germans_ ador’d in antient times; and to this day the People in the utmost North, _Japanners_, _Chineses_, _Tartars_, and the _East_ and _West-Indians_, pay their chief Devotions to the Sun; the reason of which may easily be made out: for it is the common Opinion of all Men, as _Aristotle_, _Simplicius_, _Themistius_, and other Heathens witness, to place the Omnipotent Godhead in the uppermost Orb, which surrounds the Earth; wherefore those that Pray, lift up their Hands to Heaven: but because the rest of the Heavens appear not so resplendent as the Sun, therefore they take the Sun for the onely chief God, whether for its exceeding lustre and glory, or for its being a hundred and sixty times bigger than the Earth; or for its swift Course, in running ten hundred thousand Leagues in so short a time, or for its nourishing and genial Warmth, which gives Life to all things, or for its necessary Light, by which all worldly Affairs are manag’d, or for its measuring the Days by its moving from East to West, and the Seasons of the Year, by a Course from the South to the North; for all these excellent qualities being well consider’d by the most Learned _Heathens_, or observ’d by those of lesser Judgment, have made them shew that Honor to a visible Creature, which is onely due to the invisible Creator. These and such like Arguments induc’d the _Caribbeeans_ to go to _Bemarin_, where the Feast of the Sun was to be kept. [Sidenote: The _Apalachites_ and _Caribbeans_ make an Offering to the Sun on the Mountain _Olaimi_.] [Sidenote: Part of the _Caribbeans_ revolt from the _Apalachites_.] [Sidenote: They people the _Caribees_ and grow powerful.] The _Apalachite_ King also Entertain’d the neighboring People exceeding courteously in the chief City _Melilot_; from whence he was carried in a Chair on the Shoulders of four Men, with sound of Pipes and Drums, and an innumerable company of People, to the top of the Mountain _Olaimi_, where he made a stately Offering to the Sun, and afterwards Feasting and Caressing the _Caribbeeans_ with Gifts, he sent them home all well contented and satisfi’d with their Entertainment. This Custom was yearly observ’d, when at last they began to neglect their Duty, wherefore _Toltlabin_ resolv’d to proclaim War against the _Caribbeeans_, if they did not continue paying their Devotions to the Sun: which Injunction was differently receiv’d; some judg’d it to be inconsistent with their purchas’d Freedom, to receive Laws for Religion from a neighboring King, alledging, That if any Reverence was due to the Sun, it might as well be given on the Mountains of _Amana_ as within _Toltlabin_’s Realm: others, who lov’d Peace, and had a zeal to the _Olaimi_ Religion, would not be against the Proposals, which occasion’d a Contention amongst themselves, and every one apply’d himself to those that were of his Opinion; nevertheless those that stood upon their Freedom, were of the greatest Party; wherefore the Worshippers of the Sun clos’d with the _Apalachites_, who going out with their Forces, routed the other Party, and receiv’d those _Caribbeeans_ that joyn’d with them in Religion into Co-partnership also in the Government, so that they united into one People: But those that were routed rally’d again, and not without thousands of Inconveniences made towards the Sea, where Embarquing, they Landed first on the Isle _Ajay_, now call’d _Sancta Crux_, and in process of time grew very populous; for from thence by degrees have been peopled all the little Isles which lie before _America_, and grew so considerable, that they were sought to by the _Calabites_, to side with them against the _Arovaces_, _Yaos_, _Sappayos_, and other People their Enemies on the Main Continent, where they have taken many large Countreys, extending as far as _Brasile_, where they are greatly respected and fear’d for their Valor and Policy in warlike Affairs. But because the memory of antique Passages hath no firm foundation in Books, having been onely taken by Tradition from time to time amongst the _Caribbeeans_, therefore we cannot give you an exact Account of their Removal from _Florida_; yet it remains without contradiction, that it hapned above five Ages before the _Spaniards_ Arrival, which time at least was requir’d to the peopling of so many great Islands and Kingdoms. [Sidenote: Original of the _Apalachites_.] Concerning the Original of the _Apalachites_, they themselves affirm, that they cannot certainly determine the time when they first Setled here: however, they report that they have peopled the Provinces _Bemarin_, _Amana_, and _Matika_, many Ages ago. That they are Extracted from the _Tartars_, appears not obscurely, by their Customs, Idolatry, and Language. Amongst other things, they have learn’d from the _Tartars_ religiously to remember those Kings which perform’d any grand Exploits in the Service of their Countrey. Amongst others, the _Apalachites_ make mention in their _Areitos_, or Songs, of a King call’d _Maydo_, eminent for his noble Atchievements, and prudent Governing of his People. [Sidenote: Their opinions in Religion.] They believe that the Sun many Ages since was Darken’d or Ecclips’d twenty four Hours together, during which time the Waters over-flow’d the highest Mountains, except that of _Olaimi_, where there stood a stately Temple, built in honor of the Sun; in which all those that fled thither were preserv’d, and dispers’d afterwards into several parts to re-people the World as soon as the Waters were abated, and the Sun appear’d in his full lustre again: whereupon they imagine, that to this day their Bird _Tonatzuli_, at the Rising of the Sun congratulates his appearance with great joy, and at his Setting, requests his speedy return from under the Horizon. [Sidenote: The Bird _Tonatzuli_.] The _Tonatzuli_ is a Bird like a Bull-Finch, onely its Belly and Wings are of a Golden colour, the Back and Tail blue, its Head adorn’d with divers colour’d Feathers, its Claws and Bill like Ivory, and it Sings like a Nightingale. [Sidenote: Description of the Mountain _Olaimi_.] As for _Olaimi_, it is a perfect round Mountain; the Way which leads to the top thereof runs winding two Leagues long, and is planted on each side with Cedar, Pine-Trees, _Cassine_, and _Sassafrass_, the top of which is a fair Plain a League in circumference; Eastward from it is a Cavern, to which Nature hath afforded more Convenience and Ornament than could be given to the same by Art and Charges: The first Beams of the Rising Sun dart into the Cavern, which being oval, appears like a white Vault, which on the top hath a great Hole for the Air to go in at: The bottom is like the purest Marble; on the Floor stands a Stone Cistern to receive the Moisture which drops out of the Rocks. Whilest the People Danc’d on the fore-mention’d Plain, Feasted and Sung, the Priests Offer’d Myrrhe, and all manner of Perfumes. The Clothes which the Rich gave to the Sun, were distributed amongst the Poor, according to a List which was taken of them. [Sidenote: The occasion of the _Apalachites_ embracing _Christianity_.] But in process of time the _Apalachites_ have most of them embrac’d the _Christian_ Religion; the first occasion thereof was this: When _John Ribauld_ had brought a _French_ Colony to _Florida_, and gain’d a Fort, (which from King _Charles_ the Ninth he nam’d _Charles-Fort_) the _Spanish_ Commander _Peter Melendez_ fell unawares upon him, and so far impower’d his Men, who had of themselves a natural hatred against the _French_, that they spar’d neither Man, Woman, nor Child; onely ten Men escaping the bloody Banquet, fled to the _Floridan_ King _Zaturiona_, where they were kindly receiv’d, and hearing of the Civility and Power of the King of _Apalache_ desir’d that they might go thither; which _Zaturiona_ not onely granted, but also furnish’d the seven _French_-men (for the other three were dead) with good Guides, who visited _Zaturiona_’s Relations, living in several Villages along the pleasant Stream _Selay_, over which they pass’d on large Boughs artificially joyn’d together, and travell’d through Woods, Marshes, and Mountains full of ravenous Beasts, and sometimes Engag’d with the stragling _Floridans_ which lurk’d in the most desolate Wildernesses: having travell’d two days Journey, by an Ambuscade of King _Timago_’s People, they lost two of their Guides, the rest being dangerously wounded, and through many Difficulties came at last to _Avoeka_, and from thence to the King of _Apalache_’s Court, who receiv’d them all with great kindness: Whereupon they resolv’d, being induc’d thereto by their courteous Reception, fruitfulness of the Soil, and good Customs of the Inhabitants, to Settle themselves, all but two of them, who return’d with the Guides to _Zaturiona_: the rest that stay’d there, endeavor’d by promulgating the _Christian_ Religion, to reduce the _Pagans_ to the belief thereof; which many embrac’d, and also learn’d the _French_ Tongue, notwithstanding their Priests _Jaova_’s oppos’d the same. After the death of the _French_ (which the _Apalachites_ much bemoan’d) their Idolatry had like to have gotten the upper hand again, had not some _English_ Families, fleeing from _Virginia_ from the Cruelties of the _Indians_, and not able to reach _New England_, Landed at _Florida_, with intention at first onely to get fresh Provisions, but Rowing up the River _Selay_, and taken with the pleasantness, they chose the Province _Bemarin_ for their Habitation, where accordingly they Setled _Anno 1621._ Amongst them were several Learned Men, which so effectually perswaded the _Heathens_ to embrace the _Christian_ Faith, that in twenty eight years time the King and most of his Nobles were Converted and Baptiz’d by them in the chief City _Melilot_. But since our Design is onely to give you an exact Account of those People which inhabit the Islands lying before _America_, it is sufficient that we have shew’d you how they are Extracted from the _Cosachites_ and the _Apalachites_. As to the Customs of the _Caribbeeans_, since they are very much alter’d by their long Conversation with the _Europeans_, we cannot better inform our selves of their antient Customs, than from those which to this day are observ’d on _St. Vincent_, and some parts of the Main Continent, where the _Caribbeeans_ have learn’d nothing from any Strangers. [Sidenote: Description of the _Caribbeeans_.] The _Caribbeeans_ are a well proportion’d People with broad Shoulders and Hips, round Faces, without Beards, wide Mouthes, white Teeth, little Eyes like the _Tartars_, Feet so hard, that they are almost Dart-proof, flat Noses, so made by squeezing them down in their Infancy, and long black Hair. There are few or no deformed People amongst them; all of them go stark naked, and paint their Bodies Red with a Plant call’d _Rocou_, and Oyl; about their Eyes they draw a black Circle with the Juice of the Apple _Junipa_. This their Painting serves them both as an Ornament, and to make them strong. Others anoint their Bodies all over with a glewy Stuff, on which they stick all sorts of Feathers. Others use Gum and Flowers. Moreover, they adorn their Head with Plumes, their Ears with Fish-bones, or Scales of the _Caret_, or pieces of Crystal, which they also hang in their Lips and Noses. The Men wear Armlets near their Shoulders, and the Women about their Wrists; about their Legs they tie for Garters Strings of Seeds: others take a pride in wearing the Bones of their slain Enemies, and the Teeth of the _Agouty_, Tygers, wild Cats, or Cockle shells. When they appear in greatest lustre, then they wear Armlets under their Arm-pits, and also Scarfs of Feathers, which either hang over their Shoulders, or are girt about their Middle, so that one end thereof touches their Thighs. They set an exceeding value on certain pieces of Copper call’d _Caracolis_, the least of which they hang in their Ears, and the biggest before their Breasts: and because they are fetch’d out of the Province of the _Arovages_ their Enemies, they are esteem’d as Marks of true Valor, and he is highly esteem’d that wears them. [Sidenote: Their Language.] The _Caribbeeans_ which Converse with the _Europeans_, speak two sorts of Languages, the oldest of which is smooth, acceptable, fluent, and for the most part spoke between the Lips. According to the several pronunciations one word hath divers significations: but the Mystery of their oldest Language they will discover to none. It is very observable, that the _Caribbeean_ Men speak several words, which though the Women understand, yet are never spoken by them: and also the antient People use several Sayings which the younger never mention, and the Youths such likewise as are never spoken by the Antient, which being spoken apart by each in the time of War, are understood by none but their Soldiers, that so their Designs may the better be kept secret. But their mix’d Language hath many of the _European_ words, especially of the _Spanish_, which they speak whensoe’re they converse with the _Europeans_. Moreover, though the _Caribbeeans_ on the least occasion laugh aloud, yet they are of a dull Spirit, stubborn, and nothing to be got out of them but by fair means. [Sidenote: Their Manners.] Their Employment is Hunting, Fishing, Tilling, Building of Houses, and the like. Theft is not known amongst them, so that no Man is suspicious of his Neighbor; wherefore they leave their Huts open both Night and Day. They are also seldom at Variance one with another, but generally Love sways amongst them; yet if a Quarrel doth happen, then the injur’d Person revenges himself to the heighth. Persons that profess Chastity are much honor’d amongst them; and here Youth bears great respect to Age. [Sidenote: Their Ignorance.] They are also very ignorant in natural Knowledge, insomuch that when the Moon is Eclips’d, they suppose that it is devour’d by _Maboya_; and wheresoe’re they smell any ill scent, they believe the Devil to be not far from thence. Gunpowder they suppose to be a Grain, and are very fearful of Fire-Arms: Though they have many brave Salt-pits, yet they use no Salt, nor eat any Swines-flesh, though all those Islands abound in that sort of Animal, fearing that if they should eat the same, it would cause them to have little Eyes, which they account very homely, though it is a property generally incident to them; neither will they eat any Tortoise, because they would not be so gross as that Creature. Lastly, they know now no greater Number than they reckon on their Fingers and Toes, for what exceeds twenty is to them innumerable: They hold that good Spirits, whom they call _Akamoue_, residing in Heaven, never trouble themselves with Earthly Affairs. Their Offerings consist in _Cassave_ and the first of their Fruits, which are set at the end of their Huts in Vessels on small Tables, cover’d with Leaves or Rushes, without uttering any Prayers; for they never Pray but in publick in company of the _Boyez_ or Priests, and that either for revenge against Injuries, or for recovery from Sickness, or that they may know the Events of War, or for Protection against the _Maboya_. Each _Boye_ hath his peculiar God, which, Singing with a conjuring Verse, he calls to him in the Night whilst he Smoaks a Pipe of Tobacco. [Sidenote: Their Fear of the _Maboya_.] Some have been of Opinion, that this Conceit of the _Maboya_ proceeds from the phlegmatick Nature of the _Caribbeeans_, who in their melancholy Dreams imagine themselves to be grievously beaten by the said _Maboya_. But there are sufficient testimonies to prove, that these _Heathens_ have often really suffer’d much by this _Maboya_, often appearing to them in such horrid shapes, that the poor _Caribbeeans_ would sweat and quake at the sight thereof, and inflicting such sad Pinches and bloody Stripes all over their Bodies, that they liv’d in perpetual fear of this evil Spirit: and yet notwithstanding these cruel Sufferings, they shew’d no manner of Worship to _Maboya_, onely they believ’d that they had some ease, when they wore little Pictures about their Necks, made resembling the Shapes in which _Maboya_ appear’d to them; but their best Remedy was to flye to the _Christians_. [Sidenote: Their Consultations about the Death of any Relation.] They believe their _Boyez_ able to resolve any Question they ask of them; particularly, when any one dies, the nearest ally’d to him asks the _Boye_ this Question, _Who is the occasion of his Death?_ to which if the _Boye_ names any one, they never rest till they have dispatch’d him to the other World. Concerning their original brutish way of living, they give much credit to an ancient Fable, which is to this effect: [Sidenote: Fabulous Tradition.] The most antient _Caribbeeans_, living under no other Roof than the Canopy of Heaven, fed on nothing but what the Fields naturally produc’d, which salvage Life an old Man much beamoan’d; when a certain Deity clad in white Apparel descending down on the Earth, said, _That he would have come sooner to have shew’n them the way of a civil Life, had they requested it before_. Moreover, the Angel shew’d them a place along the Shore where there lay sharp-cutting Stones, with which he told them they might cut down Trees, and with the Timber build themselves Houses, and cover them with the Leaves of the Palm-Tree to keep out the Rain; which said, he broke his Staff into three pieces, which being Planted, soon after produc’d the Root _Manioe_, which stamp’d and dry’d, made good Bread. [Sidenote: Their Opinion concerning the Soul.] The _Caribbeeans_ have also a strange Opinion concerning the Soul, that is to say, That every one hath as many Souls as he hath Pulses, but the chiefest is the Heart it self, which after Death removes with _Jeheizi_, (that is every ones peculiar God or Genius) to the Company of the other Deities, where they live after the same manner as here on Earth; wherefore those that are Persons of Quality give Charge at their Deaths, that their Servants may be kill’d and buried with them, that so they may serve them in the other World; That the other Souls, which are the Pulses, are of two sorts, whereof the first call’d _Maboya_’s, range through Woods and Wildernesses; and the other call’d _The Oumekous_, reside along the Sea, and over-turn the Ships that Sail by; That the Souls of Heroes remove to pleasant and delightful Islands, where they are serv’d by the _Arovages_; That Cowards at their Death go behind a high Mountain, where they become perpetual Slaves to the _Arovages_. So soon as they hear a clap of Thunder they run into their Huts, and place themselves on little Stools round the Fire, cover their Faces, and laying their Heads on their Knees, make a doleful noise, as supposing that _Maboya_ is exceedingly enrag’d against them. [Sidenote: Their manner of Dwelling.] Their Huts, for the most part built near Rivers and Streams, are of an oval fashion, their Roofs made of Palm-Tree Leaves or Sugar-Canes, the Walls nothing but Boughs set in the Ground and pleited together, and the Floor of sifted Earth or Sand, rammed in and kept very even and smooth; besides a Room wherein they Sleep and Entertain their Friends, they have also a Kitchin to dress their Meat, and a place to lay their Bowes, Arrows, Clubs, and the like, in; they use Mats in stead of Walls, to separate one Apartment from the other. Their Houshold-stuff is little; the richest of them have Hammocks in stead of Beds; the meaner sort use Sticks laid cross one another, and cover’d thick with the Leaves of the _Banana_-Tree, made fast at the four corners with Cords. Hollow _Calabashes_, and Earthen Ware call’d _Canaris_, serve them for their Kitchin Utensils. In the little _Canaris_ they prepare their _Tumalis_, or _Pepper-pottage_, and in the biggest their Liquor _Ovicou_. Their Cleanliness may appear by this, that when they go to ease Nature, they make a Hole in the Ground with a Stick, and after they have done, stop it up again, burying their Excrement that it may not be seen. Round about their Huts feed many Hens and Turkies, which they breed not so much for their own use, as to exchange for Iron. They remove their Habitations very often, either out of fear of being haunted by the Ghost of some deceased Person, or to avoid some Smell which they find noisom and offensive, or because their Hut hath been set on fire by Lightning. [Sidenote: Their Houshold Affairs and Diet.] The Women are always employ’d to keep their Families in good order, to prepare Venison and Fish for the Mens Tables, to spin Cotton, Comb their Husbands, and paint them Red. The Men spend their time in the Wars, Hunting or Fishing. They have also learn’d of the _Europeans_ to burn Train-Oyl in Lamps in the Night, when as before they burnt Twigs of a gummy Shrub before mention’d, which for that reason the _Hollanders_ call’d _Candle-Wood_. Each hath a little Stool, and a Table call’d _Mantoutou_, on which he eats his Meat when he pleases, having no set-Meals. The broad _Banana_-Leaves serve them for Napkins and Table-clothes. Their chiefest Dainty is Crabs roasted in the Shell with the Juice of Lemmon and _Pyman_. At great Feasts they dress their Meat with the Fat of their Enemies, being the _Arovages_. Their usual Drink is _Mabby_, made of _Potato_’s, which refreshes, and is good against the Phlegm; also another Liquor call’d _Oko_ made of steep’d _Cassadar_, and is like Beer in taste, strength, and colour. They also by making an incision into the Palm-Trees, tap a Liquor from the same in _Calabashes_, like White-wine. They use little of the Drink _Couscou_, because it swells the Body, notwithstanding it is pleasing to the Palate; But the Liquor which is most esteem’d amongst them, is the Wine made of the Sugar-Canes, which are squeez’d in Mills made for that purpose, and then boyl’d in great Kettles. During the dressing of their Meat (which being done leisurely, is sometimes half a day before it is ready), they Sing, and Dance to the Time, which one keeps with a _Calabash_ fill’d full of little Stones, in which they believe the greatest happiness they shall enjoy in the other World consists: But the _Caribbeeans_ never Dance more antique than when they meet in the _Carbet_, which is a publick House of Entertainment; whether the Women carry a Drink made of _Cassave_, which makes Drunk as soon as Wine: The Men bring Fish and Hedge-hogs; all of them painted with _Roucou_, and adorn’d with Plumes of Feathers, commit all manner of Debaucheries. At other times they also keep Feast-days, which is either when they are preferr’d to some Office, or Place of Honor, or when they have defeated their Enemies, or when they mourn for the Death of one of their nearest Relations. [Sidenote: Their Beasts.] Their Boats, which they call _Periaquo_’s, are made of single hollow Trees, full of Benches, and painted with several strange Shapes, and are able each to carry fifty or sixty Men. [Sidenote: Their Musical Instruments.] Their Musical Instruments in which they take most delight, are Drums, Strings of Silk-grass stretcht upon _Calabashes_, and Flutes made of the Bones of their Enemies. [Sidenote: Their watchfulness against Enemies.] [Sidenote: Their Entertainment of Friends.] They keep Watches on high Hills, to descry the Ships off at Sea, and no sooner have they espy’d one, but they immediately give notice to one another; whereupon those that are most valiant put off to Sea in their _Canoos_ and know by the Languages to distinguish between a _Spaniard_, _French_-man, _English_-man and _Hollander_. If they find that ’tis an Enemy who Lands on their Coasts, they guard all their Avenues, lie in Ambuscades, and gather together in by-ways, and where they see any advantage they shoot thousands of Arrows; which done, they fall in amongst them with great Clubs: but if they chance to be defeated, then they lurk behind Bramble-bushes, or climb up inaccessible Mountains, or else, if near the Sea, they save themselves by Diving and Swimming under Water above two hundred Paces before they appear again; and if a Party of them chance to meet together afterwards, they venture a second Engagement; But if those that come on their Coasts are Friends, they Swim, or go in their Boats to meet them, climb up their Ships, and carry the Sea-men on their Shoulders ashore, where the _Casique_ in the Name of the whole Island bids them welcome, and conducts them to the _Carbet_, where an antient Man salutes the old Men, and a Youth the young Men; after which asking their Names, the _Couban_ calls himself by that Name ever after; and desires the Strangers to accept of his Name; during which their changing of Names they use many Ceremonies of Friendship: this done, they proffer them Cotton Hammocks to rest themselves in, and pleasant Fruit to eat, till they have prepar’d other Meat; which is no sooner Ready, but a little Table is set before every one of them, and a Dish of Meat consisting of boyl’d Hedge-hogs, boyl’d Crabs, and Pot-herbs; which if the Guests do not eat heartily, or drink up all the Liquor which they give them, they take it as a great Affront; but if they eat and drink heartily, they take it kindly, and shew great sorrow at their departure. Their Offices of Government have been usually three; the meanest belong’d to the _Tiouboulihauthe_, whose Place was to Govern over the _Carbet_, a House where Strangers were Entertain’d, Matters of War disputed of, and publick Feasts kept. _Tiouboutonti_ Commanded the _Canoos_ in the time of War, that is, under the _Nahalene_, who Commanded the whole Fleet: But the chiefest Officer of all was the _Ouboutou_; to which degree of Honor none attain’d, unless he had kill’d several _Arovages_, or at least a Governor. When the _Caribbeeans_ drew all their Forces out of the Islands to a Battel, then they chose one out of the _Ouboutou_, who during their March Commanded the Army as General, which his Office ended with the War, and extended no farther than his own Island. [Sidenote: Their warlike Consultations.] Their warlike Consultations were no less observable for the _Ouboutou_ appointed a Day, on which the Islanders met at a Feast in the _Carbet_, whither they accordingly came all at the time appointed, and having Eat and Drunk, and Danc’d a considerable time, an ancient Woman with tears in her Eyes, and mournful Countenance enter’d the _Carbet_, and desir’d Audience; which being granted her, and every one silent, she began to relate the Damages which from antient times the _Arovages_ did to the _Caribbeeans_; and that in the last Engagement so many valiant Men were slain, and afterwards devour’d by them; therefore it would be a shame not to take Revenge, which being seconded by the _Ouboutu_, put Valor into the Hearts of all that were present: Whereupon the following day Messengers were sent to the other Islands to acquaint them with their Intentions, that they might prepare their Clubs, make sharp and poyson their Arrows, String their Bowes, prepare Provisions, and fit out their _Canoos_: They poyson’d their Arrows with the Juice of _Manchenillo_’s, which made the least Wound mortal. Their Provisions and Arms they laid up in their _Canoos_, so to preserve their _Periaguo_’s (which are Boats that can carry fifty Men), if they should chance to over-set, which often happen’d, though they were soon turn’d up again. They went from one Island to another, where they not onely stor’d themselves with fresh Provisions, but increas’d their Fleet with new Assistants; with which approaching the Main, they hal’d their Boats ashore in the Evening, and driving four Stakes into the Ground under the Trees, made fast their Hammocks to the same, in which they slept till Mid-night, and then fell on their Enemies, but if discover’d by them, they retreated to their Boats and return’d home; but if they were not discover’d, they fell upon the Huts of the _Arovages_; who resisting, they shot Arrows with burning Cotton into them, and so setting them on fire, forc’d the _Arovages_ to venture a Battel in the open Field; where having spent all their Arrows, they Engag’d one another with great Clubs, with which at one Blow they broke either Arms or Legs, or knock’d out their Brains. If the _Caribbeeans_ chanc’d to be defeated, then those that remain’d of their Party made a lamentable noise, howling for those that were kill’d, and mix’d their Tears with the Blood of their slain Friends, whom not without the greatest danger they fetch’d from amongst their Enemies, and carried them aboard their Boats: But returning Victors, the were wont to insult over their Prisoners with all the bitter Taunts imaginable, and then taking advantage of those sharp Upbraidings which their cruel usage extorted from them, to put them to death with most inhumane Tortures, and then to Feast themselves upon their mangled Bodies, all claiming a Right to their several Prisoners, as to so many Beasts appointed to the Slaughter; But of late Ages they have contented themselves to dispatch them speedily with their Clubs, and so assign them to their Shambles. [Sidenote: Their Enmity to the _Spaniard_.] As the _Arovages_ had been formerly, so the _Spaniards_ at length became the Object of the _Caribbeeans_ irreconcileable Hatred, insomuch that oft-times being Invaded by them, they gave them such rough Entertainment, that they were glad to save themselves by flight; for the _Caribbeeans_ not regarding their Guns, press’d upon them, and many times took Vessels richly laden from them, till of late years that a Peace hath been concluded between them; wherein nevertheless those of the _Caribbeeans_ refuse to be concern’d, that inhabit _St. Dominico_ and _St. Vincent_, who cannot to this day forget the cruel Outrages committed by the _Spaniards_. [Sidenote: Their Marriages.] To come to their Marriages, they were allow’d as many Wives as they pleas’d to have, insomuch that their Governors were in esteem according to the number of their Wives; nor were degrees of Consanguinity so regarded, but that an Uncle might take his Neece; whom he no sooner had carried to his House, but the Marriage was finish’d. They seldom Divorc’d their Wives after they had bore them Children, but otherwise the Man would break the Bond of Matrimony when he pleas’d. A young Man that had no Relation might court a Stranger, and if her Parents allow’d of it, the Match was made. One that had behav’d himself valiantly against the _Arovages_ was sure of several good Matches, for he was refus’d by none whom he Courted; and the abundance of Wives was the greatest testimony of their Valor. Each Wife had a peculiar Dwelling, so to prevent all Dissentions: So soon as one of them was with Child, her Husband Lay not with her till after Delivery. If any Woman committed Adultery, her Husband was permitted to knock out her Brains, or rip open her Belly; which done, he acquainted her Father with the Deed, who return’d him thanks for the same. Murderers were either burnt or cut in pieces. Children were born here with little trouble, for the Women were no sooner Deliver’d, but they carried the Infant to wash at the next Brook; which done they return’d home to their Houshold Labor, whilest the Man on the contrary kept his Bed, and ate nothing but a piece of _Cassava_ Bread, which he hollow’d out in the middle, and left the edges till the Feast, which was kept at the Naming of the Child: Moreover, he fed on all manner of Dainties for a whole year after. But this Custom was observ’d onely at the Birth of the first Son, at which time they scratch’d the Father’s Shoulder with a sharp Curry-combe, at which if he flinch’d not, it was accounted a good Omen of the Childs future Valor. At fifteen days old they made Holes in the Childs Ears, Lips, and Nostrils, through which they put a String for the tying on of what-ever Ornamentals. With the like Ceremonies the Child receiv’d a Name, taken from his Predecessors, Trees, Fishes, or some remarkable Passages during the Mothers bearing of the Infant in her Womb, or of the Father’s Lying-in: But this Name was chang’d so soon as they went to War, or kill’d a Commander of the _Arovages_, whose Name they exchang’d for their own: After which the Mothers took special care in bringing them up, and at six Moneths the Children were able to run alone: When they attain’d to the age of two years, they cut off their Hair, at a great Feast made for that purpose; from which time forward they exercis’d them in Shooting with Bowes and Arrows; to which purpose they hung up pieces of Meat for them to shoot at, which they must either hit down, or Fast. [Sidenote: Initiation of Soldiers.] Their Ceremonies to make Soldiers were very strange, _viz._ The Father conducted his Son to the _Carbet_, where he told him the Duties of a Soldier, beat him with a Bird of prey, call’d _Mans-fenis_, till he had bruis’d the Head of the Bird, and scratch’d his whole Body all over with a Curry-combe till the Blood came, and then put Lemmon Juice into the Wounds, afterwards put him in a Hammock, and hung him up for several days without giving him any Meat; all which Torments and Trials if he endur’d with patience, then he was accounted a good and approved Soldier. [Sidenote: Of their Priests.] Few bred up their Children to be _Boyez_ or Priests; yet those that were brought up to it, abstain’d from certain Food from their Infancy, and before they could be receiv’d into the Order of Priesthood, they were forc’d to draw Blood from every part of their Bodies. [Sidenote: Great age of the _Caribbeeans_.] The _Caribbeeans_ attain to an exceeding great Age: _Charles de Rotchfort_ witnesseth, That in his time there liv’d Men who remembred the first Arrival of the _Spaniards_ under the Command of _Christopher Columbus_, which consider’d, they could not be less than each of them a hundred and sixty years old. Many Women also were found there, who bare Children after they were eighty years of age: yet nevertheless they are not free from Sicknesses and Distempers, which cannot justly be attributed to the Climate, that being extraordinary healthful, but to their ill Diet. Besides the troublesom Disease call’d _Pyans_, which makes their Bodies swell full of great Knobs, they have been much troubled with pestilential Sores, occasion’d by the eating of Crabs, and poysonous Tortoises, _Lamantins_, and Hedg-hogs. Against which Evils they wanted not Medicines, consisting of Herbs, Roots, Gums, and Oyl. The bitter Bark of the _Chipiou_-Tree, steep’d in Water, and mix’d with _Lanbys_, hath a soveraign operation. The like vertue is in the Juyce of the _Myby_-Tree, which they us’d to take inwardly: and for outward Means, they us’d a Salve made of burnt Cane-ashes, temper’d with a Water press’d out of a certain Tree. To draw the Matter out of the Sores, they us’d the Juice of _Junipa_. Letting Blood was never customary amongst them, but to cut and scratch the sore part was to them in stead of Phlebotomy. But if all the fore-mention’d Medicines would not help them, they fled for aid to the _Boyez_, who immediately order’d the Hut wherein the Patient lay to be made clean, the Table call’d _Matoutou_ to be over-spread with _Cassave_, _Ouycou_, and Garden Fruits, for an Offering to the evil Spirit _Maboya_, and as many Stools to be plac’d about the same as there were People to be present at the Ceremony; and after that all the Fire and Candles were put out, the _Boye_ enter’d into the Hut about Midnight with a Lighted Roll of Tobacco, then muttering some words to himself, stamp’d with his left Foot, and blew the Smoak of the Tobacco up into the Air, which done, and tearing the Tobacco in pieces, he threw the same over the Hut, and call’d up his Spirit, who shaking the Roof of the House, made a terrible noise; then the _Boye_ drew near to the Patient, suck’d his Sores, and anointed them with the Juice of _Junipa_; after which if the sick Person recover’d, he made a great Feast, and an Offering to the aforesaid Spirit: But if the Distemper were mortal, then the _Boye_ inform’d the Patient’s Relations, That his Spirit had compassion upon the Sick, and was resolv’d to carry him above the Stars, to accompany the other Gods which reside there. Thus much in general of the Inhabitants of the Isles that lie before _Northern America_; it will next be requisite to give you an Account of them in particular. [Sidenote: The number of the _Caribbee_ Islands.] [Sidenote: Their several Names.] There are generally reckon’d of these Islands twenty eight by Name, though there are many more in number; for besides that there are a multitude of small obscure Islands that are not nam’d, there are of the more considerable sometimes two or three that go under one Name; the twenty eight are these following: _Anegada_, _Sombrero_, _Las Virgines_, _Anguilla_, _Saba_, _St. Crux_, _St. Martin_, _St. Bartholomew_, _Barbouthos_ or _Barboude_, _Rotonda_, _Nevis_, _Eustathius_, _Antego_, _Montserrat_, _Guadalupe_, _Deseado_, _Marigalanta_, _Todos Sanctos_, _De Aves_, _Dominico_, _Martinego_, _St. Lucia_, _Barbados_, _St. Vincent_, _Bekia_, _Granada_, _Tabago_, _St. Christopher_. SECT. II. Anegada and Sombrero. [Sidenote: Situation of _Anegada_ and _Sombreros_.] [Sidenote: The _Mansfeny_.] [Sidenote: The _Colibry_.] Towards the North-East of _Porto Rico_, at eighteen Degrees and thirteen Minutes, lies _Anegada_, seven Leagues long, surrounded with Shoals and Banks, as also the neighboring _Sombrero_, being in the same Latitude with the other, and so call’d by the _Spaniard_, because it appears like a Hat: Both of them being uninhabited, harbor abundance of Birds, amongst which is the _Mansfeny_, a little Eagle, and the remarkable _Colibry_, whose Body being a little bigger than a _Wren_, is adorn’d with divers colour’d Feathers, resembling a Rain-bowe; about its Neck is a Carbuncle red Circle; the Belly and ends of the Feathers are of a Golden colour, the Sides of an Emerauld green, the Bill and Legs black like polish’d Ebony, the Eyes glittering like Diamonds, on the Head a curious green tuft of Feathers: the Cocks far exceed the Hens in beauty; they flie swifter than any Bird whatsoever, and the fluttering of their Wings makes a noise like a Whirlwind: they live upon the Juice of Flowers, and especially of Cotton-Flowers; they smell like Amber, and build their Nests amongst the thick Leaves of a little Bough, where they cannot easily be found; the Nest it self open towards the South, is curiously made of the fine Fibres of the Plant _Pite_, surrounded with pieces of Bark, and within fill’d with Cotton, douny Feathers, and Silk; the Eggs oval, are somewhat bigger than an ordinary Pearl. [Sidenote: _Painted Crabs._] In the Moneth of _May_ that sort of Crabs call’d _Painted Crabs_ (for some have Violet-colour’d Shells, others yellow, full of purple Specks, and others tawny, with red Streaks) come creeping down the Hills in good order, eat up all the Herbs and Plants, and go four times one after another into the Water to wash themselves, which done they return to the Woods; but the Females at a set-time betake themselves to the Sea, in which they Lay their Eggs, which afterwards being cast on the sandy Shore, and warm’d by the Beams of the Sun, produce young Crabs in a short time, which no sooner come out of the Shell, but creep towards the Woods, when grown somewhat bigger they climb up the Rocks, where the old ones keep in vast multitudes, and stop up the Entrance of their Holes in such a manner, that they cannot be found out, whilest they cast off their Shell, creeping out backward through an opening at the Tail scarce discernable; thus for a certain time they lie bare, and stript of their Shells, being onely cover’d with a thin Skin, which growing harder and harder, becomes at last a firm Shell like the former. These Crabs are a wholsom Meat, unless they feed under the _Mancheneel_-Trees, which commonly are poysonous. SECT. III. Las Virgines. [Sidenote: Situation of _Las Virgines_.] Near _Sombrero_, at eighteen Degrees, lie also the two Isles _Las Virgines_, surrounded by ten others (and flat Shelves), without Trees or fresh Water; but the Sea thereabouts abounds with Fish, and chiefly with the _Perroket_, which hath Scales like a Carp, but greenish; the Eyes surrounded with Silver Circles shine very bright; in stead of Teeth they have strong Jaw-bones, wherewith they Grind all manner of Shell-fish, which are their Prey. These Fish have an excellent Rellish, and weigh generally twenty Pound. [Sidenote: The Fish _Dorade_.] Here is likewise great plenty of the _Dorade_, which is a very large Fish, and about five Foot long, full of little Scales, with a prickly Back, two Fins at the parting of the Head, and as many under the Belly. This Fish swimming very swift, oftentimes follows the Ships that Sail that way. SECT. IV. Anguilla. [Sidenote: Situation of _Anguilla_.] Southward at eighteen Degrees and twenty Minutes, on this side of the Line, appears _Anguilla_, inhabited by the _English_, containing ten Leagues in length; It makes a pleasant Prospect, because of the many _Junipa_-Trees which grow upon the same, whose Boughs bend towards the Ground; the Leaves are not unlike those of an Oak; the Flowers both in smell and shape come near the _Narcissus_; the Wood firm and grey, may be neatly Plan’d; the Tree bears fresh Leaves every Moneth, and a Fruit like Apples, which generally crack in their fall from the Tree, because of their thin Shell, as hath been already describ’d. [Sidenote: _Oculiem_ a sort of Vine] The _Oculiem_, or Vine, makes the Shore also very pleasant; the Leaf round and thick, hath a mixture of Red and Green; the Bark incloseth a Violet-colour’d Wood; the Boughs whereof are loaded with Violet Grapes, which in stead of Kernels contain hard Stones. SECT. V. Saba. [Sidenote: Situation of _Saba_.] Westward from _Anguilla_, at seventeen Degrees and thirty five Minutes, lies _Saba_, which shews at a great distance like a Rock. The Inhabitants of _St. Eustathius_ going thither, found a pleasant Valley, able to maintain many Families. The Sea about this Island is so clear, that a Stone may be seen lying on the bottom of it. [Sidenote: The Fish _Bonito_.] Amongst many other sorts of Fish, the _Bonito_ is the most remarkable, which is thick and fleshy, two Foot long, with a dark green Back, and white Belly without Scales; It devours greedily all manner of Carrion. SECT. VI. St. Crux. [Sidenote: Situation and first Plantation of _St. Crux_.] North of _St. Christophers_, in eighteen Degrees and some Minutes, lies _St. Crux_, which the _Caribbeeans_ who were beaten by the _Apalachites_, first inhabiting, call’d _Ayay_, where _Columbus_ found great opposition, for the Women themselves shot poysonous Arrows at the _Spaniards_; and before the Islanders submitted to them, they took many _Spanish_ Ships, burnt their Villages, and flay’d many of the _Spaniards_ alive. The Soil, though Hilly, is rich and fruitful. The _English_ Landing here _Anno 1587._ found a standing Pool, whose Water made swell the Faces of those who wash’d themselves with the same before Sun-rising, in such a manner, that they were not able to see for several days after; but they at last found a Fountain of wholsom Water. [Sidenote: The several Changes of Dominion in this Island.] Since the _Spaniards_ destroy’d the Inhabitants of this Island, it lay desolate for a considerable time, notwithstanding it hath fourteen Leagues in length, and little less in breadth, till at last the _English_ and _Hollanders_ took possession of the same, each in a peculiar place; but not agreeing together, the _English_ fell upon the _Hollanders_, and made themselves Masters of the Island in 1649. and not long after they were serv’d in the same kind; for the _Spaniard_ judging them to be weakned by the _Hollanders_ removing from the Island, set Sail thither from _Porto Rico_, burnt all the Houses, slew the Inhabitants, and brought _St. Crux_ again under the _Spanish_ Government. Mean while the Lord _Poincy_ fitted out two Sail of _French_ Ships, to drive the _Spaniards_ from _St. Crux_, and succeeded in his Enterprize; for the _Spaniards_ immediately fled to their Ships, left at liberty some _Holland_ Prisoners whom they had taken, and the Island in possession of the _French_; who straightway sent Captain _Auger_ thither as Governor, who design’d to build a Fort to secure the Harbor, but died before the same was finish’d. _Poincy_ succeeding him, made an end of the Fort, and stor’d the Island with Ammunition and Provision. The Cross-Church built there by the Order, and at the Cost of a Company of _Flushing_ in _Holland_, was deliver’d also to the _French_. [Illustration: DE STADT ST. Martin] [Sidenote: Fruit-Trees.] The Trees which grow here are of four beneficial kinds, serving for four several uses; some yield Fruits of a pleasant taste, and wholsom to eat; some excellent Medicines; others Timber for Building; and others Stuff to Dye with. Granates, Oranges, Lemmons, and Citrons, grow better here than in any place of the World. [Sidenote: The _Papaye_.] But the _Papaye_-Tree is particularly worthy of our Description; It grows twenty Foot high, without Boughs, thick and streight, hollow and spungy within, bears three-corner’d Leaves hanging on long Stalks, hollow in the middle, and of a Fingers thickness; on the top round about the Body of the Tree, grow a sort of Fruit like Quinces. This sort of _Papaye_-Tree grows on most of the _Caribbee Islands_; but the second sort call’d _Mamoa_, is to be found no where but on _St. Crux_; it hath more Leaves than the first, and a yellow Bark with green Streaks, within full of round and sharp biting Grains; the Blossoms thereof yield a sweet smell; every Moneth the Tree produces new Fruit, not unlike a Womans Breast (whence it hath its Denomination as before observ’d,) and rellishing incomparably well. SECT. VII. St. Martin. [Sidenote: Situation of _St. Martin_.] Not far from _St. Crux_, at eighteen Degrees and sixteen Minutes, lies _St. Martin_, which hath seven Leagues in length and five in breadth, and is famous for many excellent Salt-Mines; to preserve which, the _Spaniards_ built a City and Fort there. [Sidenote: The _Dutch_ Land there.] _Adrian Peter_ and _Martyn Thyszoon_, sent with eleven Sail of Ships from the _Texel_ by the _West-India_ Company, to Cruse for the _Spanish_ Plate-Fleet before the _Flemmish_ Isles, finding their labor lost, Steer’d to the Inlet of _Todos los Sanctos_; where finding no Enemies Ships, they Sail’d along the Coast of _Pernambuck_, and from thence (meeting with no Prize) to the _Caribbee Islands_; and Landing on _Granada_, receiv’d some damage from the Inhabitants: thence going to _Blanca_, they got above a thousand Goats, and ten thousand Lemmons from _Hispaniola_; near _Cuba_ they were surpris’d with continual Thunder, Showers, and Storms, which forc’d them to stand to and again off the Island a considerable time, where they thought to wait for the _Spanish_ Ships that came from _Nombre de Dios_; but being defeated of their aim, by reason that Fleet was re-inforc’d with a considerable Supply, they set Sail _Anno 1629_. towards the City and Fort of _St. Martin_, where coming to an Anchor they found the Place in this condition: On the right side of the City glides a fresh-Water River, with many meandring Streams from the Mountains; on the left side the Ocean makes a great Opening or Bay, which for a little space growing narrower, becomes at last an Inland Lake; from the Countrey opposite to the City on the other side of the fore-mention’d Inlet, runs a Ridge of Hills toward the Sea; on the utmost Point thereof stands a square Fort, defended from the force of the Water with great Stones, pyl’d up at the Foot thereof, cover’d like a House, having on the top of it a Watch-tower, and not far from it a Chappel; moreover, the Mountain _Calvaria_, rises on each side and behind the City, with high Precipices; not far from the Mouth of the River appears a strong Castle with several Bulwarks, and thereon great Guns; along the Inlet is a fair Market-place; in the middle of the City stands a Church Consecrated to _Dominicus_, near which there is a large Hospital, which fronts the Sea; the Cathedral stands at the farther end of the City, and on the declivity of a Mountain a fair Chappel; near the great Fort the Governor hath a pretty Palace; nor are the _Franciscan_ Cloysters much inferior to any of the other Structures of this City, which taken altogether bears a good Form, by reason of the uniformity of the Streets. [Illustration] [Sidenote: The Island possess’d by the _Dutch_.] But _Anno 1648._ the _Spaniard_ totally deserted this Island, which _Michael Adriaenszoon Ruiter_ hearing of, brought several People from _St. Eustathius_, and took possession of it in the Name of the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_: Yet they enjoy’d not long the entire Propriety, for the _Spaniards_ again went and claim’d those Places which were theirs upon the first gaining of the Island; which the _Hollanders_ allowing them, they liv’d peaceably and quietly together, each having their own Churches, Store-houses, Land, and _Negro_’s. The _Dutch_ Plantation was maintain’d by the _Zealand_ Lords, _Lamsen_ and _Van Ree_. There are divers Pools of salt Water in this Island, which afford the Inhabitants store of Fish, and especially Tortoises. The Woods produce wild Hogs, Pigeons, Turtle-Doves, and Parraquito’s resembling a Parrot, and which though much smaller, are more apt to be taught. [Sidenote: _Flammans._] Near the Salt-pools also breed Birds call’d _Flammans_, not unlike a Jack-daw, onely differing in Feathers, for they are first white, next ash-colour’d, and at last turn red; they seldom flye or sit alone, but for the most part in great Flocks in open places, and Moorish Grounds; when some of them seek for their Food under Water, one of them stands Centinel, and on the least noise or appearance of a Man, gives notice by Chirping to the rest, who hereupon immediately flee away; those that shoot them lie commonly hid under an Ox Hide. [Sidenote: _American_ Swallows.] About the same Pools breed likewise the _American_ Swallows, with crooked Bills, Feet like Ducks, black Bodies, white Bellies, and long Tails. SECT. VIII. St. Bartholomew. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _St. Bartholomew_.] Near _St. Martin_, at sixteen Degrees, lies the Island _St. Bartholomew_, which being about five Leagues in circumference, is surrounded with Rocks, and was first Planted by _De Poincy_: It makes a delightful Prospect, because of the many Trees which grow on the same; amongst which the most noted are Soap-Trees, whose Wood makes the Water Lather, and washes as well as Soap; but they are of two sorts, for in some this soapy Quality is contain’d in a round yellow Fruit, not unlike a Plumb; in others a white soft Root supplies the office. [Sidenote: The _Canopia_-Tree.] [Illustration] The little Tree _Canopia_, out of whose Bark drops a Gum, grows also very pleasant, the Body being divided into several Branches; the Leaves are discolour’d, being underneath of a dark Green, and of a brighter at the top; the Flower consists of five Leaves, and closes at last into a kind of Cherry, full of yellow Juice, and white Pulp; it blossoms generally in _October_ and _December_, and bears ripe Berries the two following Moneths: a Fire being made about the Tree causeth the Bark to crack, whereby it yields abundance of Gum, chiefly us’d in Medicine for its opening and loosening Quality. [Sidenote: The _Paretuve_-Tree.] Likewise the _Paretuve_-Tree, which grows along by the Sea-side and by Pools, is sufficiently remarkable, for the Boughs thereof grow downwards, twin’d and pleited together so thick, that in time of War they serve for Bulwarks, and are the Recesses of wild Swine. [Sidenote: The _Calabash_-Tree.] Moreover, on this Island, as on all the other hereabouts, grow _Calabash_-Trees, which have thick Boughs and oval Leaves joyn’d one to another, and bear every Moneth fresh Flowers and Fruit, grey Flowers, mark’d with green Streaks and black Spots, and Fruit with hard Shells, full of juicy Meat and flat Seeds, which being taken out serve for Boxes, Cups, or little Dishes. [Sidenote: _Sea-Star._] Along the Shore is also found a sort of Fish call’d the _Sea-Star_, which is a yellowish Fish, whose hard Skin full of little Knobs shoot forth five Darts or Beams; in stormy Weather they fasten themselves to the Rocks. [Sidenote: _Sea-Apple._] No less wonderful is the Fish call’d the _Sea-Apple_, whose brown Skin is full of Prickles, which when the Fish dies fall off, nothing remaining but a white Shell, curiously embroider’d with little Holes. On the Banks, and near the Rocks, grow also Sea-Trees, whose thickest Boughs putting forth still lesser and lesser Branches, are pleited together very wonderfully, and being all glaz’d as it were with Salt-petre, seem greyish. SECT. IX. Barboude. [Sidenote: Situation of _Barbouthos_.] _Barbouthos_, which some call _Barboude_, others _Barbada_, being five Leagues in length, lies at seventeen Degrees and thirty Minutes, and North-East from _Monserrat_, in a shallow Sea. [Sidenote: _English_ molested by the _Caribbeeans_.] Here the _English_ Planting, have from their first Arrival been much molested by the _Caribbeeans_ of _Dominico_, who for a great while us’d twice a year to Invade them in the Night, killing and destroying whom and whatsoe’re they met with, onely Women and Children, with some other Booty, they carried to _Dominico_. SECT. X. Rotonda. [Sidenote: Situation of _Rotonda_.] The Isle _Rotonda_, which is much lesser, hath receiv’d that Denomination from its round Form, for it rises in the middle into a Hill, which at a distance appears like a Steeple; It lies at seventeen Degrees and ten Minutes. The Sea about the same being very deep, makes a good coming to the Island with Ships. SECT. XI. Nevis. [Sidenote: Situation of _Nevis_.] In sight of _Rotonda_, at seventeen Degrees and nineteen Minutes, lies _Nevis_, which hath six Leagues in circumference. Out of the middle of the Island rises a Mountain all over wooddy; round about which the _English_, who Setled there _Anno 1628._ have their Plantations, and have increased from a small number to above three thousand, and make a good Advantage of their Sugar, Ginger, Cotton, and Tobacco, which they Plant there. [Sidenote: Good Government of the _English_ there.] They are Govern’d by a peculiar Governor and a Council, who punish Thieves, and all manner of Deboshes very severely. There are also three Churches, which on the Sabbath-Day are all throng’d with People, who resort thither for the Worship and Service of God. The Harbor call’d _Bath-Bay_, and the Store-house built about the same, are secured by a great Fort full of great Guns. Several Springs on this Island afford the Inhabitants good Water. Here is also a Mineral Spring, a place to Bathe in, which hath been found to cure the same Distempers which the Waters at _Bourbon_ have done. [Sidenote: The _Pistick_-Nut.] Moreover, this Island abounds with the _Pistacie_ or _Pistick_-Nuts, which grow on small Trees, with soft long Leaves, round at bottom, and ending in three Points: These Trees being commonly full of thick Boughs, serve commodiously for Hedges; the Wood and Leaves sweat a milky Juice, dropping out of the same with the Rain; the yellow Flowers which grow on the same are like glittering Stars, and the taste of the Nuts like a Hazle; but if the Skin which covers the Kernel be not pull’d off before they are eaten, they purge to Death. [Sidenote: The _Musticho_.] But the great Profit which _Nevis_ receives by Nature is attended with some Inconveniences, which trouble this and all the other Islands: amongst many may be reckon’d the _Musticho_’s, a sort of little Bugs, whose poysonous Sting causes such intolerable Itching, that those who are stung by them cannot forbear to scratch themselves till the Blood comes, by which their Sores festering, prove often very dangerous. [Sidenote: The _Muringoins_.] Also the _Muringoins_, who are so much the less dangerous, because they make always a great noise before they sting. Wasps likewise are here very troublesom, but their Stings are cur’d with Rue, as the Stings of Scorpions are with the Juice press’d out of the same Animal. [Sidenote: Wood-Lice.] The Wood-Lice, which are here in great abundance, have a soft and white Body, onely the Head, which is mark’d with a black Speck; their Mouthes are so very hard, that in two hours time they eat through thick Chests. And no less damage do the _Banettos_. [Sidenote: _Chigos_.] But the _Chigos_ are a kind of small Fleas, that breed in Dust, Ashes, and the like, and are of all the most pernicious; they first get in under the Nails of the Toes, and from thence run over all the Body, but especially the bottoms of the Feet, where they first occasion an Itching, and then eat Holes through the Skin; they make Blisters as big as Pease in the Flesh, wherein a swarm of young ones breeding, cause Ulcers and rotten Flesh, which must be eaten away with _Aqua-fortis_ and burnt Allom. SECT. XII. Eustathius. [Sidenote: Situation of _Eustathius_.] _Eustathius_, which is rather a Mountain, rising out of the Ocean like a Sugar-Loaf, than an Island, lies at seventeen Degrees and forty Minutes: It hath scarce five Leagues in circumference, yet receiv’d some while since a Colony of above sixteen hundred People, sent thither from the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_, under the Command of the Lords _Lampsen_ and _Ree_. Besides the natural Strength of the Place, whereby a few are able to keep off a great number, it is fortifi’d with a strong Fort, which Commands the Harbor. The Inhabitants are very industrious, and make great profit of the Tobacco which they Plant. In the midst of this Island is a Mountain over-grown with Trees, which seems to end in a Point, and hath about it a pleasant Plain. The abundance of Fowls, Hogs and Goats, afford the Inhabitants store of Provisions; for their Store-houses are never so empty, but that they can supply their Neighbors Wants. The want of fresh-water Brooks they supply with Rain-water, which they preserve in Cisterns. [Sidenote: Terrible Hurricanes.] Though the Air of the Island be wholsom, and the Soil fruitful, yet it is subject to many great Inconveniences; for besides the terrible Thunder-claps and Earthquakes, that rend the Ground, the Inhabitants are exceedingly troubled in _August_, and _September_ with the Winds, which in twenty four hours blow from all Points of the Compass with such mighty Gusts, as if they would turn all things into their first _Chaos_. The _Caribbeeans_ call these Tempests _Hurricanes_, which formerly us’d to happen but once in seven years, but of late every two years, and sometimes twice in a year. What damage these Winds cause is scarce to be express’d; the Sea raising its turbulent Waves up to the Skyes, casts the Ships on the Shore, which though in Harbor, are certain to be wrack’d, whilest the Land seems to labor under a general Ruine, whole Woods being rooted up by the same, or at least bereav’d of Boughs and Leaves; the Corn is beaten down, the Plants blasted, Houses turn’d topsie-turvy, Mountains rent asunder, and sometimes pieces of Rocks blown into the Sea. Before the Hurricanes there are several fore-runners, which give notice of their sudden approach, _viz._ the Sea on a sudden is so calm, that the least motion is not perceiv’d; the Birds flye from the Mountains into the Valleys, where they lay themselves flat on the Ground; and the Rain which falls is bitter and salt. _Charles de Rochfort_ observ’d, that in his time some Ships laden with Tobacco being lost in a Hurricane before _St. Christophers_, soon after the Tempest ceased, thousands of Fishes were seen swimming with their Bellies upwards, intoxicated no doubt with the Tobacco. SECT. XIII. Antego. [Sidenote: Situation of _Antego_.] Between _Nevis_ and _Montserrat_, at sixteen Degrees and eleven Minutes, lies _Antego_, being seven Leagues long, and about six broad; It is dangerous to come at with great Ships, because of the many Rocks which lie before it, and remain’d the longer uninhabited, because of the want of fresh Water; yet at last the _English_ taking possession of it, digg’d Pits, and made Troughs to catch and preserve Rain-water in, so that it is now inhabited by at least eight hundred People, who live on Plants, Venison, and Fish. [Sidenote: The _Sword_-Fish.] Upon the Sea-shore appears often-times the Sword-fish, which hath no Scales, but a grey Skin, and white Belly, rough like a Fyle, a flat Head, two Fins on each side, two on the Back, and one in stead of a Tail, with which it makes a swift motion: the Sword of it is a long Bone, arm’d on each side with twenty seven white and strong Teeth. This Fish striving to be Chief of the Sea, Encounters with all other Fishes whatsoever, even with the Whale himself, whose Belly he often rends open; near his Eyes are two Nostrils, out of which he blows the Water he drinks into the Air. SECT. XIV. Montserrat. [Sidenote: Description of _Montserrat_.] _Montserrat_, lying just at the seventeenth Degree, is so call’d from a _Spanish_ Hill beyond _Barcellona_, whose shape this Island represents off at Sea; It is about three Leagues in length, and almost as much in breadth, and is very Mountainous, except a little towards the East, and as much Westward. The _English_ have a Church here, lin’d in the in-side with Cedar, which this Island produces in great abundance. [Sidenote: The _Acajou_-Tree.] Also the _Acajou_-Tree, which grows an exceeding heighth, with mighty Boughs, under which many judge it very wholsom to sleep: But there are two sorts of the _Acajou_-Tree, the one differing from the other in tallness of Body and Colour; of which the most esteem’d is the red and sweet-smelling, which is not subject to any decay; for that which is white, and yields Gum when cut, is of a less value. [Sidenote: The _Acomas_-Tree.] The _Acomas_ is also no way inferior in bigness to the _Acajou_, which bears long swarthy Leaves, and yellow Fruit not unlike a Plumb; but because of their extraordinary bitterness they are not eatable, onely the wild Pigeons at a certain time of the year feed on them, after which their Flesh becomes bitter also; from the Bark when cut, runs a milky Juice. [Sidenote: The _Cypress_-Tree.] The Cypress-Trees when plan’d, yield a pleasant Marble colour to the Eye, and a delightful fragrance to the Scent. [Sidenote: The _Iron_-Tree.] The Iron-Tree, with sharp-pointed Leaves, crack’d near the Stalk, blossoms in _March_ and _September_; after the Violet Blossoms follow a black kind of Fruit like a Cherry, being an excellent Food for Birds; the Wood whilst flourishing is red, but cut down changes its colour, yet is so hard that it never decays. [Sidenote: The _Musk_-Herb.] Moreover the Musk-Herb yields a sweet smell, and grows like Brambles without Thorns; between long dusky Leaves hang yellow Flowers, which afterwards become Cods full of Seeds, that smell exactly like Musk. SECT. XV. Guadalupe. [Sidenote: Situation of _Guadalupe_.] _Guadalupe_, or _Gardelupe_, formerly call’d _Carricueira_, lying at about sixteen Degrees, and containing sixty Leagues in circumference (for it is the biggest and noblest of the _Caribbee_ Islands,) is divided in two by a narrow Channel; wherefore one part is call’d _Grand-Terre_, and the other properly _Guadalupe_; whose Eastern Point, nam’d _Cabes-Terre_, and its Western, call’d _Basse-Terre_, are both inhabited by the _French_. [Sidenote: Mountains.] Several high Mountains, especially towards the Center, start up from very low Grounds, with their barren Crowns towards the Skye, some whereof are overgrown with Trees. At the Feet of some of the Mountains are large Plains, water’d by sweet Streams which formerly invited the _Spanish_ Fleets thither to water. There is also a sulphurous Mountain, which smoaking continually gives the taste of Sulphur to the Streams which flow about the same. This Island boasts likewise several boyling Springs which cure the Dropsie, and all other Distempers proceeding from Colds. [Sidenote: Strange Fish.] Towards each of the two fore-mention’d Points, are large Gulphs that produce abundance of Tortoises, and all manner of Fish, and amongst others one sort not known by Name, which is generally about four Foot long, having a sharp and big Head, with glittering Eyes, a Back streak’d with blue and green, and a Belly half white and half red, eight yellow Fins, and a broad Tail, with which it swims exceeding swift. [Sidenote: The Shark.] Near the Shore swim the Sharks, an ugly Sea Monster, which bites a Man asunder in the Middle at once; their Head is hard and prickly, their flat Mouthes opening discover three rows of Teeth. [Sidenote: The _Pilot_-Fish.] After this Fish swims generally the _Pilot_-Fish, or _Rambos_, which is so curiously speckled, that Nature seems herein to excell what-ever can be represented by the artificial Pencil and move either swifter or slower, according as the Shark leads. The Brain of this Fish is judg’d exceeding good against the Gravel and Stone. [Sidenote: The discovery of _Guadalupe_.] _Guadalupe_ was first discover’d in the Year of our Lord 1635. by the _French_, under the Command of the Lords _Du Plessis_ and _De Olive_, and after them one of the Captains of _St. Christophers_: Since which the Champain Ground being Till’d and Manur’d, brings forth in great plenty, Rice, _Maiz_, _Manicock_, and Potato’s. Father _Raymond Breton_ got possession of the fruitfullest part of the Island for the Reformed _Jacobines_, or _White-Fryers_, and since the present Governor Monsieur _De Howell_ sent also for the _Jesuits_ and _Carmelites_, to build Cloysters in a new City, which lies in _Basse-Terre_, and which is also built full of Store-houses and Dwelling-houses two Stories high. The Castle, which lies near the City, hath four Bulwarks, with great Guns. The next neighboring Mountain is also crown’d with a Garrison’d Fort. [Sidenote: The _Moubane_-Tree.] The Countrey hereabouts bears _Moubane_-Trees, which produce yellow oval Plumbs with great Stones, wherewith the Hogs are exceedingly fatned. [Sidenote: The _Corbary_.] The _Corbary_, which grows higher than the _Moubane_, hath a hard shelly Fruit, in which lies a douny Pulp of a Saffron colour: The Gum which drops out of the Tree is hardned by the Sun, and becomes very clear, wherefore the _Caribbeeans_ make use of it for Arm-rings, and other Ornaments. SECT. XVI. Deseado. [Sidenote: Situation of _Deseado_.] Ten Leagues to the North-West of _Guadalupe_, and at sixteen Degrees and ten Minutes, appears _Deseado_, or _Desirado_, like a Galley, of which the North-East end hath a low Point; to the Northward lie Sand-Hills full of red Veins: It was so call’d by _Christopher Columbus_ in his second Voyage, from obtaining of his Desire, it being the first of the _Caribbees_ which he discover’d, as _St. Salvador_ the first Land in all _America_. [Sidenote: The _Guano_.] The Soil is wholly barren, and destitute of Trees, and breeds the amphibious Creatures call’d _Guano_’s, which in stead of Fins to swim withal, have four Feet; the biggest of them are fifteen Inches long; their Skin full of little Scales shines like Silver, and in the Night they make a loud and shrill noise from the Holes in the Rocks. [Sidenote: The _Frigates_.] On this desolate Island are an innumerable company of Fowls, call’d _Frigates_, which have a Body like a Duck, but larger Wings, and flye swifter; so soon as they perceive a Fish in the Water, they falling upon the same, catch them in their Claws, and especially devour abundance of flying Fish. [Sidenote: The _Fauves_.] But the _Fauves_, which are much leaner, are no way so swift; they resemble a Moor-Hen, have Feet like Ducks, Bills like a Snipe, and in rainy Nights rest on the Ships in stead of Rocks, so that many times they become an easie prey to the Mariners. SECT. XVII. Marigalante. [Sidenote: Situation of _Marigalante_.] Not far from hence, at fifteen Degrees and forty Minutes, appears _Marigalante_, like a Wood in the Water. On the South-East side, about half a League from the Shore, lie black full of white Specks. Westerly the Shore is very plain, whither the Governor Monsieur _De Howell_ sent some People from that Island, of which twenty were kill’d by the _Caribbeeans_, who had Gardens and Fish-ponds thereon: Not long after which _Howell_ built a Fort here, and Garrison’d the same with _French_-men. The Woods afford a delightful sight to the Eye, as also the Cinamon-Trees, whose Leaves never wither, a sweet smell to the Nose. [Sidenote: The Fish _Lamantin_.] The Ocean hereabouts produces plenty of _Lamantins_, which are dry’d like Haberdine. This Fish grows eighteen Foot long and seven thick; the Head thereof is like a Cows, with little Eyes, and a thick brown Skin, rough and speckled in some places, and hath two little Feet in stead of Fins; it feeds on Weeds, which grow on the Rocks and Banks; the Females bring two young ones at a time, which suck for some days; their Flesh palatable and wholsom, is streak’d with Fat, which when melted never putrifies; they are oftner taken in the Mouthes of Rivers than in the Ocean. [Sidenote: The _Sea-Devils_.] About this Isle, as well as the rest of the _Caribbees_, are Fishes call’d _Sea-Devils_, four Foot long, and proportionably thick, their Skins rough, their Heads flat, their Backs arm’d with Prickles, little black Eyes, wide Mouthes full of Teeth, and two Tusks that slick out of the same, four Fins, a long slit Tail, with which they swim exceeding swift, above their Eyes slick broad sharp Horns turn’d towards the Back; the Flesh is deadly poyson. [Sidenote: The _Becune_.] The _Becune_, which is eight Foot long, falls upon a Fish like a mad Dog, biting great pieces of the Flesh out of the Body, which occasions present Death; its Flesh is likewise poyson. SECT. XVIII. Todos Sanctos. [Sidenote: Situation of _Todos Sanctos_.] [Sidenote: Curious sorts of Shells.] Southward from _Guadalupe_, and at the same Latitude with _Marigalante_, lie four desolate Isles, call’d _Todos Sanctos_, and on their Shores a sort of Shell-fish call’d _Lambis_, from the resemblance of a Tongue; the Shells whereof the _Indians_ Sound in stead of Horns when they give an Alarm; as also another sort call’d _Porcelenes_, of which the most esteem’d are without of a Carnation, and within of a Silver, or Skye-colour mix’d with Golden Beams. The next are the Black, mix’d with a pale Blue, and little Veins. But the most remarkable Shells are those, whose Back Nature hath mark’d in such a manner with Musical Notes, that one might almost express a Tune by them. [Sidenote: Mother-of-Pearl Oysters.] Moreover, it would amaze the Beholder, to see the Mother-of-Pearl Oyster moving at the Foot of a Rock; for at the Rising of the Sun they appear above the Water, and gape for the Dew, of which they have no sooner receiv’d a Drop, but they close their Shells, and fall to the Ground again. SECT. XIX. De Aves. [Sidenote: Situation of _De Aves_.] Westward from _Todos Sanctos_, at fifteen Degrees and forty five Minutes, lies the Isle _De Aves_. [Sidenote: _Aigrettos._] Besides Ducks, Pluvers, Moor-hens, Geese, and the like Fowls (that suffer themselves to be catch’d by the Hands of Men, which are very strange to them) there are here also many rare sorts of Birds, as the white Birds call’d _Aigrettos_, which are somewhat bigger than Crows, with red Bills and Feet, and curious Plumes on their Heads; they often flye a great way off at Sea. [Sidenote: _Craw-fowl._] The large Bird call’d _The Craw-fowl_, which feeds on Fish, hath a thick Head, a long flat Bill, hollow Eyes, and a short Neck, under which hangs the Maw, big enough to contain a Pail full of Water: On the Trees along the Sea-side they watch for Fish which swim near the top of the Water, and by their attentiveness on their Prey, are easily shot themselves. [Sidenote: _Arras._] Here is likewise the Bird _Arras_, of the bigness of a Pheasant, but more resembling a Parraquito: their long Tail consists of divers colour’d Feathers, some have shining skye-colour’d Heads, Backs, and Necks, their Bellies and Wings of a pale Yellow; they are so stout, or rather so simple, that if they are not hit with the first Shot, they will stay for a second: They also learn to talk, but not so distinctly as the _Canides_, which are no way inferior in beauty to the _Arras_, nay exceed them very much: Monsieur _du Montell_ above mention’d, seeing one at _Corassao_, describes it after this manner: [Sidenote: Description of the _Canides_.] “It deserves to be numbred (saith he) amongst the most beautiful Birds in the World: I took so particular notice of it, having had of them in my Hands many times, that I have the Idea’s of it still fresh in my Memory. Under the Belly, Wings, and Neck, it was of a waving _Aurora_-colour, the Back, and one half of the Wings, of a very bright Skye-colour, the Tail and greater Feathers of the Wings were mix’d with a sparkling Carnation, diversifi’d with a Skye-colour, as upon the Back a Grass-green and shining Black, which very much added to the Gold and Azure of the other Plumage: But the most beautiful part was the Head, cover’d with a Murrey Doun, checquer’d with Green, Yellow, and a pale Blue, which reach’d down wavingly to the Back: The Eye-lids were white, and the Apple of the Eye yellow and red as a Ruby Set in Gold: It had upon the Head a certain Tuft or Cap of Feathers of a Vermilion Red, sparkling like a lighted Coal, which was encompass’d by several other lesser Feathers of a Pearl-colour. “If it were recommendable for all these extraordinary Ornaments, it was much more for its Familiarity and Innocency; for though it had a crooked Beak, and that the Claws with which it held its Meat and brought it to its Beak, were so sharp as to take away whatsoever it fastned upon, yet was it so tame as to play with little Children and never hurt them; and when one took him into his Hand, he so contracted his Claws, that the sharpness of them could not be felt: He had this Quality of a Dog, That he would Lick with his short and thick Tongue those who made much of him and gave him something he lik’d, put his Head to their Cheeks to Kiss and Caress them, and expressing his Acknowledgments by a thousand pretty Insinuations, he would suffer himself to be put into what posture one would, and took a certain pleasure in diverting those he thought his Friends: But as he was mild and tractable to those who were kind to him, so was he mischievous and irreconcileable to such as had injur’d him, and he could distinguish them from others, and make them feel the sharpness of his Beak and Claws. “He pratled in the _Dutch_, _Spanish_, and _Indian_ Languages, and in the last he sung Airs as a natural _Indian_: He also imitated the Cries of all sorts of Poultrey and other Creatures about the House; he call’d all his Friends by their Names and Sirnames, flew to them as soon as he saw them, especially when he was hungry; if they had been absent, and that he had not seen them a long time, he express’d his joy at their return by certain merry Notes; when he had sported himself till they were weary of him, he went away, and perch’d himself on the top of the House, and there he talk’d, sung, and play’d a thousand tricks, laying his Feathers in order, and dressing and cleaning himself with his Beak. He was easily kept; for not onely the Bread commonly us’d in that Island, but all the Fruits and Roots growing there, were his ordinary Food; and when he had more given him than he needed, he carefully laid up the remainder under the Leaves wherewith the House was cover’d, and took it when he had need. In a word, I never saw a more loving or more amiable Bird; ’twas a Present for any Prince, if he could have been brought over the Sea. This Bird had been brought from the _Caribbee_ Islands to Monsieur _Rodenborck_, then Governor of the Fort and _Dutch_ Colony, which is in the Island of _Corassao_.” SECT. XX. Dominico. [Sidenote: Situation of _Dominico_.] At fifteen Degrees and thirteen Minutes, lies the Island _Dominico_, so call’d because it was discover’d on a _Sunday_, about thirty Leagues long, and not much less in breadth, and diversifi’d with high Mountains, and exceeding deep Valleys; of which the _Caribbeeans_ that dwell there relate, That formerly in one of the deepest of them, a huge and monstrous Serpent had an Army of Serpents to defend an invaluable Carbuncle which he had in his Head; which being cover’d with a thin Skin, was onely discernable when he drank or play’d, for then the lustre thereof lightned the whole Valley. When first the _French_ approach’d this Coast with their Ships, the Islanders going Aboard in their _Canoos_, barter’d Provisions for Coral, Crystal, and other Trifles. [Sidenote: The _Manchenile_ Tree.] On this Isle also grows the famous _Manchenile_-Tree, which bears long Leaves, and sweet smelling Fruit, streak’d red, and tasting like a Hazle-Nut, but bringing a deadly Sleep upon those that eat of it; it seldom rots though it fall into the Sea, or any fresh Rivers, but is crusted over with a Shell resembling Salt-petre, and poysons the Water in such a manner, that all the Fish dying, are seen floating upon it; in the Trunk and Boughs thereof is a milky Juice, which dropping upon the Body, causes it to break out in Scabs, and if it chances to touch the Eyes, it takes away the Sight for nine days: and not less hurtful is the Moisture which drops from the Tree. The _Caribbeeans_ dip their Arrows in this poysonous Juice, against which Nature hath provided an excellent Medicine, being as followeth: [Sidenote: A Medicine against the poison of the _Manchenile_.] There are amongst the other Reptiles of _America_ a sort of Snails, which creep into the Legs of dead Crabs, to keep themselves from the Weather; when taken they make a noise, and being laid before the Fire they come forth; the Water squeez’d out of them, or the Oyl drawn from them by the Sun, cures the Parts poyson’d by the _Manchenile_-Tree. SECT. XXI. Martinico. [Sidenote: Situation of _Martinico_.] Opposite to _Dominico_ lies _Martinico_, by the _Indians_ nam’d _Matunina_, which lying at fourteen Degrees and thirty Scruples, is forty five Leagues in circumference; It appears at a distance like three Mountains, the highest whereof resembles a Hat, and is seen in all parts of the Island, which, on the North where three Rocks deny access for Landing, seems to be divided into three Isles. The _Caribbeeans_ have been forc’d, after many bloody Battels, to surrender up this Island to the _French_: But before they were well setled, the _Caribbeeans_ marching over exceeding high Mountains, deep Concavities, and thick Woods, fell upon them with all the Rage imaginable: the Reasons of which some attribute to _Du Parquet_, who in prejudice of the _Martinican Caribbeeans_, sent _French_-men over to _Granada_ and _Alouzia_: others suppose, that they took up Arms to revenge the Death of their Countrey-men on _St. Vincent_, who were destroy’d by the _French_ with poyson’d Brandy. But the _French_ furnish’d with new Supplies, took sufficient Revenge; for they drove the _Caribbeeans_ out of their Houses, and chac’d them into Woods and Deserts. The Hills that are over-grown with Trees, are Receptacles for wild Beasts, especially Hogs and Serpents. The other Hills are Till’d and Sow’n, though not without great trouble. The Tobacco which grows on the steep Ascents much exceeds that which grows in the Valleys, or in the Tracts of Land shaded with Trees. [Sidenote: The Island divided into five Wards.] Since the _French_, _Anno 1635._ (being sent from _St. Christophers_ by the Lord _Desnambuc_) Setled themselves on this Island, under the Command of his Deputy _Du Pont_, they divided it into five Wards, separated from that part of the Isle which was inhabited by the antient Natives: Each Ward hath a Church, or at least a Chappel, Armory, Store-houses, and Dwelling-houses, like an intire Village. The first Ward is call’d _Pyloot_, from a _Caribbeean_ Captain, who was very familiar with _Du Parquet_, and inform’d him of his Peoples Designs. The second, nam’d _Capot_, is wash’d by a River of the same Denomination, and hath many fruitful Plains. The third retains the _Caribbeean_ Name, being _Carbet_, signifying a Publick Structure, to which they us’d to resort to Feast, or hold Councils of War; not far from which the Governor dwelt in a Stone House: Near the Harbor stood also an Armory in a Valley, water’d by a fresh River which falls out of the Mountains, shaded with Trees and Gardens full of Rarities: But since the Governor gave this and many other fair Buildings to the _Jesuits_, he remov’d to the fourth Ward, call’d _St. Peter_, where he built a Castle, and furnish’d the same with Brass and Iron Guns to defend the Harbor. A Stones-throw from the Governor’s House lies the _Jesuits_ Cloyster, on the Banks of a pleasant Stream, built very artificially of Marble and Free-stone, and having a pleasant Prospect over the River, and adjacent Gardens, beautifi’d with the choicest of Flowers, Fruits, and Trees; and also a Vineyard, out of which they press a considerable quantity of Wine. The last Ward, call’d _Preacheur_, extends East and West, some parts whereof swell into high Mountains, at the Feet whereof stand fair Structures; others sink into low Valleys or _Savannas_. [Illustration: BARBADOS] [Sidenote: The _Mahot_-Tree.] Between the _French_ Settlements and the _Caribbeeans_, runs an Arm of the Sea, along whose Shores grows abundance of the _Mahot_-Tree, which is full of Boughs from the top down to the Ground. The Bark of this Tree serves in stead of Ropes, and is also us’d to tie up Tobacco; the Wood it self is durable, and good for Building, wherefore most of the Houses built on Hills are of this Timber. The best Harbor for Ships is between the Wards _Carbet_ and _St. Peter_, defended from the Winds by high Hills. [Sidenote: The _Diamond_.] Not far from the Inlet of the Salt-pits, appears about half a League off at Sea, a Rock call’d _The Diamond_, being a Receptacle for an innumerable multitude of Birds, and especially wild Pigeons. Besides the Streams that in the rainy Seasons run through the Dales and _Savana_’s, there are ten Rivers, which falling from the Mountains, glide through the Valleys into the Sea. Sometimes they swell in such a manner, that over-flowing their Banks, they wash down the Trees and Houses; which Inconvenience hath taught the _French_ to build their Houses on Hills or rising Grounds. The good Situation of this Island hath invited many Families thither. SECT. XXII. St. Lucia. [Sidenote: Situation of _St. Lucia_.] _St. Lucia_ (by the _French_, _Alouzie_) is so call’d because it was discover’d on the thirteenth of _December_, Dedicated in the Kalendar to the Virgin Martyr _Lucia_, who was burnt at _Syracuse_: It lies Southerly from _Dominico_ at thirteen Degrees and forty Minutes, and is ken’d at a great distance by two fiery Mountains; the most Easterly of which is higher than the other. At the Feet of these two Mountains lie pleasant Valleys, shadow’d by close Woods, and moistned by clear Springs; near which heretofore a small number of _Caribbeeans_ dwelling, maintain’d themselves with Fishing; they went stark naked, and painted their Bodies with red Oker, and drew a Vermilion Stroke from their Ears to their Noses. An _English_ Ship sent to _Guinee_ to supply the Plantations there, Landed sixty six mutinous Persons here, who were all kill’d by the Inhabitants; but when _Henry Jacobson Lucifer_ putting into the Bay of _Lucia_ to Water there, _Anno 1627._ Landed to discover the Island, he found neither Man nor House, nor any thing but a barren Soil; yet notwithstanding _Du Parquet_ sent his Deputy _Rosselan_ with a Colony to Plant in this Island. SECT. XXIII. Barbados. [Sidenote: Situation of _Barbados_.] The Island _Barbados_, which was Planted by the _English_, _Anno 1627._ lies between thirteen and fourteen Degrees, and hath twenty five Leagues in circumference, and somewhat more in length than breadth, and is supply’d with a fresh-Water River, and several Pools. The Ground being fruitful in the producing of Tobacco, Cotton, Ginger, and especially Sugar, invited many People to Settle there, insomuch that in a short time it could shew twenty thousand Inhabitants besides _Negro_ Slaves. The Trees which grow on this Island, are not onely delightful, but profitable; amongst which the _Roucou_ is one, with sharp Leaves, white Carnation Flowers like Stars, which hang by Clusters at the end of the Boughs, and after a while turn to a Cod full of vermilion Kernels: The Juice dry’d in the Sun and kneaded into Balls, is of a great value. Of the Bark of this Tree they make strong Ropes; and the Root is very wholsom, and of a pleasant taste. [Sidenote: The Fly _Cayouyou_.] Moreover, amongst the Insects that breed here, there are a sort of Flyes worthy of a short Description; the _Caribbeeans_ call them _Cayouyou_, being about the bigness of a Beetle; they have two strong Wings, and under them thinner, which they never spread abroad but when they flye, and then they carry such a lustre in them, that they give as much Light in the Night as a lighted Candle, (their Eyes also at the same time glittering like Fire) making no noise when they flye; they feed on the Juice of Flowers, and are so smooth, that they are very apt to slip through ones Fingers, and when they find themselves to be taken, they hide their glittering Wings under the other. The _Indians_ tie these Flies to their Hands and Feet, so to have the benefit of their Light in the Night; and anoint their Bodies all over (at certain Solemnities wherein Candles are forbidden) with the Juice squeez’d out of them, which causes them to shine like a Flame of Fire: They catch them with a piece of Wood which they move in the Air, whereupon the Flyes going to sit, are taken with a Hat; but their Light vanishes if they are kill’d. But as to what may farther be added concerning this Island, being one of the chief of our Plantations, we cannot better satisfie the curiosity of those who desire a true Information of all things that concern that Place, than by inserting _verbatim_ a Letter from an intelligent Person who hath been long resident there, _viz._ Colonel _Robert Rich_, of no older Date than _May 31. 1670._ by which the present State and Condition of the Island, the Buildings and other Improvements made there by the Planters since they first possess’d it, in what Commodities of the Growth of the Countrey their chief Trade consists, their Strength, _Militia_, Government, and flourishing Commerce, and what-ever else is material to be imparted, may be clearly understood. [Sidenote: Colonel _Rich_ his Description of the _Barbados_.] SIR, _I have lately seen your_ Proposal _concerning an_ English Atlas, _and having read Dr._ Heylin_’s Book of the Chorography and History of the whole World, his third Edition Corrected and Enlarged, Printed_ Anno 1666. _I find him very short and erroneous in his Description of the_ Caribbee _Islands, especially of this Island of_ Barbados, _wherein I have been an Inhabitant more than eleven years. He saith_, 1. The Island is seventeen or eighteen Miles in compass. 2. On the South ’tis furnish’d with a large and commodious Harbor. 3. The chief Commodities are Tobacco, and a kind of course Sugar, call’d _Barbados Sugar_, which must be quickly spent, or ’twill melt to nothing. 4. That this Island is worth all the Plantations made by the _English_, and yet that we hold it at the Courtesie of the _Spaniard_, without whose Leave and Liking, not of Force to hold it. _This Description of Dr._ Heylin_’s, in it self very false, is also much to the Dishonor of the_ English _Nation, which makes me presume to trouble you with my own Observations, wherein having onely aim’d at the Truth, you shall not have cause to doubt of being misguided_. _This Island of_ Barbados _is seated in thirteen Degrees and twenty Minutes, length twenty two Miles, and in breadth fourteen and an half; It is naturally fortifi’d with Rocks and Shoals on the North and East side of it, where no Ship may safely Anchor, onely two or three places small Boats may go out and in to Fish. On the South-East and Westerly part, it is all along a Road when Ships may Ride at Anchor, but more especially in four chief Places, Roads and Bays thereof._ _The principal Road or Bay is call’d_ Carlisle Bay, _and lieth on the South-West part of the Island near its Center, and is a good Road, where five hundred Ships of any Burthen may Ride safely from all but South and Westerly Winds, which seldom in these Parts happen, they generally blowing Easterly, whence it is that we call the East parts_ Windward, _and the West parts_ Leeward. _Here lies also the chief Town for Trade, call’d formerly the_ Bridge-Town, _but now_ St. Michaels, _and having two Forts, answering each other, and a Platform between, which Commands the Road, and Defends the Town; the first and chiefest Fort is call’d_ Charles Fort, _standing on_ Nedhams Point, _lying out in the Sea to Windward of the Bay and Town, so that an Enemy keeping out of Command of this Fort, cannot (probably) come to do the Ships or the Town injury, for that they must come full in or against the Wind. This Fort is built strong with Stone and Lime; the Platform joyns to the Windward part of the Town; also the other Fort joyns to the Leeward part of the Town, all which are well fortifi’d and stor’d with great Guns. The Town consists of several Streets and Lanes, being about thirty Chain in length, and fifteen in breadth, and hath many fair and large Buildings, whereof the most are of Stone and Lime._ _The second Road and Town is lately call’d_ Charles-Town, _situate on_ Oysters-Bay, _and lies about two Leagues to Windward of_ St. Michaels, _having also two Forts and one Platform; the two Forts stand the one to Windward, and the other to Leeward of the Town and Road, and the Platform in the middle, all well furnish’d with great Guns. And although this Town be not a Place of much Resort for Shipping, yet here are many considerable Store-houses for Trade, wherein Monethly are kept the Court of_ Common-Pleas _for that Precinct, and Weekly Markets_. _The third Road and Town is lately call’d_ St. James’s, _formerly the_ Hall, _and is about two Leagues to the Leeward of_ St. Michaels, _hath one very large Platform, and is otherwise well fortifi’d with Breast-works; and although few Ships come to Ride here, yet in this Town is maintain’d a great Trade with the Inhabitants adjacent; here also is kept Monethly the Court of_ Common-Pleas _for this Precinct_. _The fourth Road and Town is lately call’d_ Little Bristol, _but formerly_ Sprights-Bay, _which lieth about four Leagues to Leeward of_ St. Michaels, _and hath two Forts well built, and strongly fortifi’d. To this Place come many Ships, especially from the City of_ Bristol, _the which here Ride, unload and re-load, it being the next greatest Place of Repute to_ St. Michaels _in the whole Island_. _This Island is divided into eleven Parishes, and hath in it fourteen Churches and Chappels, and being subdivided into divers Plantations, small and great, hath Sugar-works accordingly, with fair and large Buildings made of Stone and Brick, the which generally are pleasant Habitations, and delightfully situated, most having pleasant Prospects to the Sea and Land._ _The Inhabitants of this Island are_ English, Scotch, _and_ Irish, _and some, but very few of the_ Dutch _and_ French _Nation, who formerly liv’d here a time of Servitude, and now dwell as Free-men, some by their Trades, and others on Plantations; also some few_ Jews _live here and Trade as Merchants, they having obtain’d Licence from His Majesty so to do; besides_ Mulatto’s _and_ Negro’s _which are here kept, and accounted for Slaves, the number of which some years since, upon search, were found to be sixty thousand Persons_, viz. _forty thousand_ Whites, _and twenty thousand_ Blacks. _The standing_ Militia _of this Island that are in readiness to meet together on all occasions, and which at other times are often and well Disciplin’d, consist of two Regiments of Horse, and five Regiments of Foot, wherein several Companies have near two hundred in a Company, and in some Troops more than a hundred Horse in a Troop; by all which you may easily apprehend how little of truth there is in that Saying_, That we hold this Island at the Courtesie of the Spaniards, _when those few_ English _in_ Jamaica _give the_ Spaniards _such work to defend themselves_. _The Growth and Manufacture of this Island and parts adjacent, is Sugars of all sorts_, viz. Muscovado, _Clay’d, and Refin’d_; (_I suppose I have seen here as good Sugar made as any is in the World_) _Gingers_, _Indico_, _and Cotton-wool_; _also Tobacco_, _Logwood_, Fustick, _green and yellow, and_ Lignum-vitæ: _Of these four last heretofore much, but now no quantities to be had in this Island, onely to the Leeward great store. The first four mention’d Commodities receive prejudice to their Product by abundance of Rains or Droughts not happening their proper Seasons: also violent Winds lodge the Sugar-Canes, whereby the quantity and goodness is lessned. The chief time for Expectation is from_ January _to_ September, _when comes in the wet Season, that makes the Roads not Cartable, and usually puts an end to Making and Transportation of them. We have two Crops of Corn in a year, Planted usually when the Rains first come in, in_ May _and_ November, _which is gather’d in about_ October, _and in_ March _and_ April _following. Wines of all sorts are here Imported, but of_ Portuguese _and_ French _the greatest quantities_, viz. _of_ Madera, _upwards of fifteen hundred Tun yearly; of_ Spanish, _upward of two hundred Tun; of_ French-_Wines, upward of seven hundred Tun; besides Brandy and_ English _Spirits; but of these latter now no great quantities Imported or spent, by reason of the general use of the Spirit of Sugar-Cane, call’d_ Rum, _which the meaner sort, as Servants and Slaves, do not onely drink in great abundance, but much also is hence Transported into_ Virginia, Bermudas, _and_ New-England. _Here is also Imported great store of Provisions of all sorts_, viz. _Beef_, _Pork_, _Fish_, &c. _from_ Ireland, New-England, Virginia, Bermudas, New-found Land, _&c._ _also Pease_, _Flour_, _Butter_, _Cheese_, _and Bisquet_; _likewise Timber_, _Boards_, _Pipe and Hogshead_, _Staves_, &c. _also_ Negro-_Slaves from_ Guinee, _and live Cattel, as Bulls_, _Cows_, Asinego’s, _and Horses, from the_ Cape de Verd _Island_, New-England; _and from_ England, _Servants, and all other Commodities for Plantations, and for Apparel_; _of all which great quantities are hither brought and sold_. _The Shipping that comes to Trade to this Island belongs generally to_ England; _some few Vessels are here built, and pass to and fro to the Leeward Islands; and some belong to_ New-England, Bermudas, _&c._ _The number of Vessels which come hither to Trade in one year is found upon search to be about two hundred of all sorts, (some years more, some less) as Ketches, Sloops, Barques, &c. containing in Burthen fifteen thousand and five hundred and five Tun, according as they were here Entred, which is at the least a third part less than their true Burthen, by reason every Ship pays one pound of Powder_ per _Tun, the means ordain’d by this Country for storing the Magazine; the greatest part of which Ships re-load with Sugars for_ England, _and many go for_ New-England, Bermudas, Virginia, Tangier, _&c._ _not always full loaden with this Countreys Growth. The usual Rate for Tunnage from hence to_ London, _is from_ 4 l. _to_ 5 l. per _Tun_; _sometime when Ships are very plentiful, it is at_ 3 l. _and less, and at other times when scarce, from_ 6 l. _to_ 7 l. _in the late War with the_ Dutch, _it was at_ 10. 11. _and_ 12 l. per _Tun_. _The Government is Constituted by the Laws of_ England, _and Laws not repugnant to them, onely some particular Laws are here made, proper for this Place, by the Governor (or Deputy) and his Council, (which usually are from seven to twelve in number) and an Assembly that consists of twenty two Persons, chosen by the Free-holders, two out of every Parish_. SECT. XXIV. St. Vincent. [Sidenote: Situation of _St. Vincent_.] The Island of _St. Vincent_, South-West from _St. Lucia_, and having sixteen Degrees of North-Latitude, was so call’d by the _Spaniards_, as having discover’d it on that Saint’s Day, being the fifth of _April_: It is accounted eight Leagues long and six broad, and rises round about with high Grounds and several Mountains, which are seen at a great distance. This Island hath a very fruitful Soil, and for the bigness of it hath been long since well peopled with _Caribbeeans_ before the arrival of the _Spaniards_, possessing here several Villages, to whom they are still sworn Enemies, but Truck’d with the _Hollanders_ for Provisions, Horns, Axes, Knives, and other Trifles. At the West and South sides are convenient Bays to lie at Anchor and take Water in. [Sidenote: The Fruit _Momen_.] The Inhabitants highly esteem the _Momen_, growing to the bigness of an Apple-Tree; the Fruit which it bears resembles a green Cucumber, and is of a pleasant Juice, the Skin always green and prickly; the Seed which is in the same about the bigness of a _French_ Bean, is generally black, and streak’d with Golden-colour’d Veins. [Sidenote: The _Granadilla_.] Here is also that Plant mention’d elsewhere, by the _Spaniard_ call’d _Granadilla_, by the _Dutch Rhang-Apple_, and _La Fleur de la Passion_ by the _French_; and it is so call’d, as being fancied to represent the thorny Crown of our _Saviour_, together with the Cross, Nails, Hammer and Pillar; the Plant runs along the Ground, unless it meet with a Pole by which it runs up. SECT. XXV. Bekia. [Sidenote: Situation of _Bekia_.] Not far from _St. Vincent_ lies the Island _Bekia_, which reckons twelves Leagues in circumference, and lies at twelve Degrees and twelve Scruples of Northern Latitude: It hath a secure Harbor against all Winds; but because it is without fresh Water, it is onely frequented by the _Caribbeeans_ that dwell on _St. Vincent_, who come hither to Fish, and visit certain little Gardens which they have there for their pleasure. The Soil produces store of Water-melons, whose red juicy Pulp yields, when squeez’d, a great quantity of sweet Liquor, which is very refreshing, and good to create an Appetite; their white Flowers, notch’d at the end of the leaves, afford a delightful smell. _Anno 1633._ Captain _John Johnson Van Hoorn_ putting in to _Bekia_ to catch Tortoises, found a fine Inlet on the West, and Eastward a Ridge of Rocks, Cotton growing wild in the Fields, and upon the Shore a kind of Snails call’d _Burgun_, under whose first Shell appear’d another of a Silver colour with black Specks. SECT. XXVI. Granada. [Sidenote: Situation of _Granada_.] _Granada_, lying at twelve Degrees and sixteen Scruples, like a Half-moon, from the North to the South, is full of Woods. Towards the South-West runs a fresh River into the Sea. The Shore very low affords good Anchorage at twelve Leagues distance. The Current grows exceeding strong here, and the Water also ebbs and flows in a few hours. _Dirick Simonszoon Witgeest_ Sailing from _Tabago_, was amaz’d to see with what force the Current drove him to _Granada_. [Sidenote: The _French_ possess it.] Hither _Du Parquet_ at his own Charge sent three hundred Men from _Martinico_, who scuffled with the Inhabitants six Moneths before they could possess the same in Peace; and scarce had they obtain’d it at last, but by telling them that the _French_ Assistance would be very advantageous unto them against the _Arovages_. The Duke _Seryllac_ in _Paris_ inform’d of the Fertility of this Island, bought it of _Du Parquet_ for a considerable Sum of Money: And indeed _Granada_ is none of the meanest of the _Caribbees_, the Soil producing very good both Fruit and Timber-Trees, amongst which is the _Latine_-Tree, of a tall Body, but ordinary thickness, and in stead of Boughs, hang Leaves like Fans in long Stalks, which being ty’d together, serve for Roofs of Houses. There is also the Tree _Cocoa_, which yet grows not so high here as in other parts of the _West-Indies_. SECT. XXVII. Tabago. [Sidenote: Situation of _Tabago_.] The next which comes in view is _Tabago_, (so call’d, as some think, from the quantity of that Drug there Planted) eight Leagues long and four broad, lying in the eleventh Degree and sixteen Minutes of Northern Latitude, and hath many high Mountains full of Wood, out of which glide eighteen Streams, which watering the Plains fall into the Sea. Captain _Vitgeest_ coming to an Anchor here, found a convenient Inlet on the East, and fresh Water to fill his Casks. Half a League from the Shore rise five Rocks, through which he Sail’d with his Ships. Within the Cliff opens a Bay, into which runs a River well stor’d with Fish. More Westerly lies a larger Inlet, which receives two delightful Streams. From the Western Promontory runs also a Cliff Northward into the Sea. This Island is easily known by high Coasts which rise on the East side, and so grows lower by degrees. It is likewise made pleasant by many Walks of Trees. The Sea produces abundance of those sorts of Fish which are common amongst us, besides Tortoises, that lay their Eggs in the Sand. [Sidenote: Cra-fish.] The Cra-fish thereabouts are not much unlike Lobsters, have white and well tasted Flesh, but hard to digest; they catch them in the Night on sandy Shelves with lighted Torches. [Sidenote: Crabs.] The Crabs get their Food very wonderfully here; for when they observe the Mussles or Oysters to Gape for fresh Air, they put Stones between their Shells, so that they not being able to shut them, they pull out the Fish with their Claws. The Woods feed an innumerable company of Beasts somewhat resembling Hogs, (whose Navels are on their Backs) _Opassums_, _Javaris_’s, and _Tatows_, as also the _Agoutys_’s and _Musk-Rats_. [Sidenote: _Agoutys._] The _Agoutys_’s are of a dark brown colour, and have little Tails, two Teeth in their upper, and as many in their lower Jaw; they make a noise as if they spoke, crying _Couye_; if hunted by Dogs, they run into hollow Trees, out of which they are routed by Smoak. [Sidenote: Musk-Rats.] The great _Musk-Rats_ are as big as a Rabbet, and like them live in Holes made in the Ground, but resemble an _European_ Rat, onely their Skins are black, except one part of their Bellies which are white; they smell so strong of Musk, that it overcomes those that carry them. [Sidenote: Serpents.] Amongst the Brambles breed also Serpents of a green colour, two yards long, and an Inch thick, feeding on Locusts and Birds, which they take in their Nests, but do no hurt to Mankind. [Sidenote: The _Sassafras_ Tree.] But _Tobago_ boasts chiefly of the _Sassafras_-Tree, which resembles the Pine-Tree, hath a firm and streight Body, and on the top Boughs spread like a Crown, the Bark of a dark colour and smooth, and smelling very sweet; the Leaves thin, notch’d, and of a deep Green, have also a delicate smell; the thinnest Roots appear above the Ground, and are exceeding good to cure green Wounds, stoppings and shortness of Breath occasion’d by Colds. [Illustration] The Tobacco, by the _Caribbeeans_ call’d _Y-ouli_, Planted among the Fruit-Trees, grows very plentifully here; it shoots up from a stringy Root, bitter of taste, with a thick Stalk, which shoots out Boughs with great Leaves, woolly underneath, and bears a kind of Violet Flower, which when dry’d, are succeeded by little Cods full of black Seed; and to prevent the over-growing of it, they cut off the top of the main Stalk. [Sidenote: The Bird _Colibry_.] The Bird _Colibry_, which is exceeding beautiful, makes his Nest under the Tobacco-Leaves. A company of Townsmen of _Walcheren_, having a Grant from the _States_ of the _United Provinces_, sent a Colony to _Tabago_; but they being scarce two hundred in all, were for the most part destroy’d by the _Caribbeeans_; the rest weak or sickly, fearing the same Entertainment, sought to save themselves; so that the Island has not formerly been frequented but by the _French_ from _Martinico_, and _Guadalupe_, who for some time came over onely to catch Turtles and _Lamantins_ there. The _Caribbeeans_ also either in their March against, or Return from the _Arovages_, Landed here for necessary Provisions; But of late the Lord _Lampsen_ hath Setled a Plantation in this desolate Island. SECT. XXVIII. St. Christophers. [Sidenote: Situation of _St. Christophers_ Island.] _St. Christophers_, a pretty distance from _Tobago_, receiv’d its Denomination from _Christopher Columbus_, invited thereto by the shape of a great Mountain, having as it were another lesser on one of its Shoulders, being fancy’d to represent the Figure of the suppos’d Giant _Christopher_, who is reported to have carry’d our _Saviour_ in the appearance of a little Child on his Shoulders through a deep Sea. This Island lying seventeen Degrees and twenty five Minutes Northward of the _Equinoctial Line_, hath twenty five Leagues in circumference. The Soil light and sandy, refuses not the production of divers sorts of Fruits common amongst us. In the middle of the Island rises a high Mountain, out of which run fresh Streams, that sometimes swell so high with sudden Rains, that they drown all the Countrey near them. [Sidenote: The Division of the Island into several Wards.] This Island being jointly the Plantation of both _English_ and _French_, was divided into four Wards, two whereof have been long since in possession of the _French_, and the other two in possession of the _English_, strangely divided one from another; for the _English_ in one Ward cannot go to the other without troubling the _French_; and so on the contrary: the _English_ have more Rivers and People, the _French_ more plain Land, fitter for Cultivation, and Forts furnish’d with Guns and Soldiers. At the Entrances of the Paths which lead into the several Wards stand Watch-houses, where Sentinels, or Watch-men stand daily in their turns. In a Bay of the Sea they found a brave Salt-pit, from whence a sandy Cliff runs so far into the Ocean, a that some have swum from the end thereof over to the Island _Nevis_. A Silver Mine hath been long since discover’d on this Island, in which the _English_ and _French_ claim equal Interest, but neither Party make any benefit of it for want of Miners. The high Mountains, the Springs of boyling sulphurous Water, and brambly Woods, hinder all passage through the middle of the Island: The Ground runs more and more sloaping to the Sea-side, and is divided into several High-ways, along which stand convenient Houses, cover’d with red or glaz’d Slate, shaded with Trees, and environ’d with pleasant Gardens, to which there is a delightful Prospect from the Fields, of the green Tobacco-Leaves, the yellow Sugar-Canes, Ginger, and Potato’s. [Sidenote: _Basse-Terre_ the chief Town belonging to the _French_.] Besides the scatter’d Buildings, the _French_ have built a compleat Town near the convenientest Harbor of their Quarter, call’d _Basse-Terre_, where the Merchants dwell in fair Houses built of Brick and Free-stone; whither all sorts of People bring their Commodities, and Truck their _European_ Goods for such as _St. Christophers_ produceth. All manner of Trades and Handicrafts live also in this Town, and a Court of Judicature is kept every Week. The Church built of Free-stone, is cover’d with the aforesaid red Slate, and was formerly Govern’d by the _Capuchins_; but they being dismiss’d _Anno 1646._ the Government was given to the _Jesuits_ and _Carmelites_; who also built themselves other stately Edifices: but the Jesuit _Henrick du Vivier_ was the first who bore the chiefest Command over all. The Sick that have not sufficient Means to maintain them, have an Hospital appointed, where all Necessaries are provided for them; and to which is added a School for the bringing up of poor Children. [Sidenote: Description of the Castle.] But the chiefest Structure is the Castle, on the building whereof the Lord _Poincy_ spar’d no Cost; it is built half a _French_ Mile from the Sea at the Foot of a high Mountain, shadowed with great Trees. In the Way thither stand the Houses of the prime Officers; and a long Walk of Orange and Lemmon-Trees leads to a large Court before the Front of the Castle it self, which is built square with Bricks and Free-stone three Stories high; and the Entrance into it is ascended by a large pair of Stairs; near the Gate which opens to the West, stand great Stone Cisterns, into which they receive the Water through Pipes laid under Ground; the Chambers and Halls are very lightsom and high, and the Walls of them adorn’d with Cedar; a flat Terrace on the top yields a pleasant Prospect all over the Countrey; the Windows in the Front look open not onely upon the Orange Walk, but also upon several delightful Plantations of Sugar-Canes and Ginger. Westward appear several Mountains, whose high Heads are invested with ever-flourishing Trees; and between the Palace and those Mountains a very large and stately Garden, full of all manner of Flowers and other delightful Plants, as well those commonly known amongst us, as those peculiar to that part of the World; in the middle thereof stands a Fountain, deriving its Source from the Foot of a neighboring Hill. The Winds which blow from the Hills, and especially those cool Blasts daily coming out of the East, so tempers the hot Climate, that it becomes very tolerable. When any News arrives here of the _French_ Conquests in _Europe_, they sound the Trumpets on the top of the Castle, and the Standards and Ensigns formerly taken by the Governor in the Field, are hung out of the Windows. On one side of the Castle stands a Chappel, and somewhat farther on a rising Plain, a row of Houses, inhabited by certain Retainers to the Governor, and is call’d _Angola_. The Offices and Lodgings for the Governor’s Servants are built of Brick, about the Castle, which is fortifi’d with five Sconces, whereon are planted several Guns. The Governor keeps nine hundred Slaves, and a hundred _French_-men, to work in his three Sugar-Mills, to till his Ground, and for his Houshold-Service. Several _French_ Gentlemen have also built many fair Houses here; amongst which the chiefest are those on which _Poucy_, _Treval_, _Benevent_, _Girand_, _Auber_, _de la Roziere_, _de St. Andant_, _de l’ Esperance_, and _de la Loche_ spent great sums of Money. The _English_ also are not much inferior to them in their Counties. [Sidenote: The _English_ Plantations in this Island.] Their Churches are five in all; first on the Point of the _Palm-Tree_ stands a fair Church; a second near the great Road, below the _English_ Governor’s House; a third at the _Sandy Point_; which are all well built, and large enough for a considerable Congregation; the other two at the Inlet _Cayoune_ are short of the three first. The Ministers thereof receiv’d formerly their Benefices from the Bishop of _Canterbury_, in _Cromwell_’s time from the _Tryers_, as they were call’d; but of late, since the King’s Restauration, from the Bishop of _Canterbury_ again. The best Houses belonging to the _English_ were built by Mr. _Warner_, Mr. _Rich_, Mr. _Evrard_, and Col. _Geffreyson_ all successively Governors of the Place. [Sidenote: Their success at their first Landing.] It was in the Year 1625. that the _English_ and _French_ jointly (_Desnambuc_ Commanding the _French_, and _Thomas Warner_ the _English_) Landed on this Island of _St. Christophers_, at a certain time when the _Caribbeeans_, perswaded by their _Boyez_ to destroy all Strangers, were ready up in Arms, but they met with such Entertainment, that they soon lost their Courage, and yielded possession to the Assailants: Not long after which _Desnambuc_ and _Warner_ went (the one to _Paris_, and the other to _London_) to inform their Kings of the Condition of _St. Christophers_, and to raise a Company which might promote the Planting of it: Both attain’d their Desires, and had fresh Assistance given them; for both Kings favor’d the Design, in regard of the good Conditions that were propos’d to those that should go Undertakers thither: And to prevent all Contentions between the _English_ and _French_, they made Boundaries on each side; but Hunting, Harbors, Fishing, Mines, Trees for Wainscoting, and the like, were to remain in common; and each was to assist the other. The _English_ Plantation increased daily more than the _French_; having constant Supplies from the Company in _London_; when as on the contrary, the Merchants at _Paris_ grew weary, being desirous first to have a Return for what they had already spent, though the Countrey was not yet Manur’d: wherefore _Desnambuc_ going thither himself, made the Company understand that they could not possibly expect to receive a Return, unless the Countrey were Planted with Tobacco, Indigo, Ginger, and Sugar, which requir’d both Time and People. But whilst the Business seem’d to go on prosperously, a great Accident hapned which threw down the Work to nothing: for the _Spanish_ King set out a Fleet within the fore-mention’d Year, of one and thirty Gallions, three Galeasses, and four Pinnaces, with seventy five hundred Men, under the Command of _Frederick de Toledo_, _Emanuel de Mineses_, and _John Fajardo_, from _Cadiz_, when before the Island _St. Jago_ there lay at the same time twenty two _Portuguese_ Galleys, fourteen Carvils, carrying four thousand Men, Commanded by _Antonio Nunnez Barreio_, and _Francisco de Almeida_, who joyning with the _Spaniards_, took the City _St. Salvador_, and went about wholly to chase out of the _Caribbee_ Isles all the _English_ and _French_: in which Attempt nine _English_ Ships lying before _Nevis_, were all taken by _Toledo_, who Sail’d within Cannon-shot of _St. Christophers_, Commanded at that time by the _French_ Captain _Rossey_, the Forts cast up by the _English_ and _French_ not being stor’d with Provisions nor Ammunition, and consequently no way able to endure a Siege, and the less, because the Works were not quite finish’d; nevertheless _Desnambuc_ immediately drew up his Soldiers to the Low-land, where he lay Intrench’d along the Coast, to prevent the Enemies Landing; but _Rossey_ suffer’d the _Spaniards_ to Land without the least Resistance: whereupon young _Du Parquet_ Sallying out of the Sconces, fell valiantly upon the first Company, but being forsaken by his Men, was run down by the Multitude and kill’d: In the mean time all their Sloops full of Men Landed, insomuch that _Rossey_ fearing to be surrounded, left his Trench and went up into the High-lands, whereby the _Spaniards_ became Masters of the Fort, but did not pursue their Victory, as suspecting that the _French_ might lie in Ambuscade in the next Wood; and indeed they suspected not in vain, for the _French_ having undermin’d their Forts, had laid Gun-powder in some of the Cellars, which firing, blew up very many of the _Spaniards_, whilst _Desnambuc_ Embarquing himself, sav’d those which were not slain by the Enemy’s Sword. Mean while the _English_ relying on the League between the King of _England_ and the _Spaniard_, made no Resistance, (notwithstanding they were inform’d that _Frederick Toledo_ had quite ruin’d the _French_ Plantation, and put them all to the Sword) but sent Agents to _Toledo_, to put him in mind of the League between _Spain_ and _England_, which he not taking notice of, alledg’d, That Pope _Alexander_ the Sixth, when a Controversie arose concerning the new Discoveries in the East and West, between the Crowns of _Castile_ and _Portugal_, had determin’d that _Castile_ had sole Right to the Western World, and therefore that _St. Christophers_, being a part of the Western World, according to the _Pope_’s Gift, belong’d to his Master _Philip_; and insisting upon that Allegation, he commanded them to quit their Right to the Place; to which purpose he restor’d them six of the nine Ships taken at _Nevis_, on Condition that they should immediately set Sail for _England_, onely those whom the six Vessels were not able to carry, were permitted to stay on the Island till the next opportunity: After which _Toledo_ weighing Anchor, was scarce out of sight, when the _English_ began to take new Courage, and gathering together to repair their ruin’d Works as well as possibly they could with what Forces they had left; for besides those who went for _England_ in the six Ships, being near two thousand, the _Spanish_ Admiral took six hundred choice _English_, which he distributed amongst his Fleet; whilest _Desambuc_ suffer’d a great deal of hardship, not onely through ill Weather at Sea, but also for want of Provisions; Having during this time been on the Islands _St. Martin_, _Montserrat_, and _Antego_, thinking to have possess’d himself of some or other of them in stead of _St. Christophers_, but not finding such a fruitful Soil, and convenient Situation, as what he had been forc’d to forsake, he was not forward to fix there, but rather judg’d it convenient to enquire concerning the Condition of _St. Christophers_, and at last being inform’d by a Ketch, that the Enemy was gone to _Havana_, and the _English_ were busie in Tilling their Lands, he return’d to his old Station; where nevertheless their Endeavors to repair what was ruin’d, had been in vain, by reason of the scarcity of Provisions, and want of other Necessaries, had not in their greatest extremity some _Netherland_ Vessels arriving there, furnish’d them with Provisions, Clothes, and other Necessaries, on bare promises of payment: But not long after growing rich with Tobacco, Sugars, Ginger, and Indigo, they made Satisfaction to all their Creditors, and at last attain’d to the Condition before mention’d. In the late War between Us and the _Dutch_, the _French_ taking advantage of our Engagement, endeavor’d to destroy our Plantations there, and to make themselves Masters of the whole Island; but the Matter being at last brought to some Agreement, Sir _Charles Wheeler_ hath been very lately sent over thither by His Majesty to re-settle Affairs there, and order the Capitulations between the _French_ and _English_. [Illustration] CHAP. XIX. The Islands Sotavento, and the Isle Trinidado. In the Division we found to be made of the Islands that lie between _Florida_ and _New Spain_, and _Southern America_, the last are the Isles of _Sotavento_, which are reckon’d to be these three, _Margareta_, _Cubagua_, and _Tabago_, but the last is by most accounted, and hath been mention’d amongst the _Caribbees_. [Sidenote: Situation of _Margareta_.] _Margareta_, so call’d from the abundance of Pearls (of which the _Spanish_ Appellation comes near the Latine _Margaritæ_) found there by the _Spaniards_ at their first Discovery, lies about the twelfth Degree of Northern Latitude over against the Main Land of _Cumana_, from which it is distant about seven Leagues: It is accounted sixteen Leagues long, and half as much in breadth, and was discover’d by _Columbus_ in his third Voyage in the Year of our Lord 1498. and was at first in great reputation, in regard of the rich Pearl-fishing upon its Coasts, wherein the _Spaniards_ (more favorable it seems to the Natives of this Place than usual, because of their readiness to discover their Treasures) employ’d _Negro_’s, brought from the Coast of _Guinee_, whom by severe Punishments inflicted, they forc’d to such excessive Labor, that many of them, though excellent Divers, were drown’d, others either devour’d, or lam’d by the ravenous great Fish thereabouts, and by destroying the very Seed through their insatiable greediness after Pearl, brought the Trade of Pearl-fishing in a short time to a very small Account, in respect of what it might have been, had it been well husbanded. Nor hath this Island of late Years been much frequented, only in the Year 1601. Captain _Parker_ with a Fleet of _English_ put on Shore here, and took as many Prisoners as he had five hundred pounds of Pearl for the Ransom of, and at his coming away took a Ship he met from off the Coast of _Angola_, with three hundred and seventy _Negro_’s aboard her, who were going to be sold for Slaves. The Soil is not unfruitful, bringing forth several sorts of Fruit, and store of _Maiz_, and probably if improv’d, would as well bear Wheat, and other usual kinds of Grain; but there is great want of Water, which the Inhabitants are troubled to fetch from the neighboring Continent. [Sidenote: Towns and Places of chief note.] The Places of chief note, are 1. _Monpater_, a Fort built by the _Spaniards_ in a Nook of the Island, lying Eastward to secure the Pearl-fishing Trade, and to defend the Town where the Governor resides, as also the Treasurer of the King of _Spain_’s Customs of Pearl, which have been formerly valu’d at 50000 _l._ yearly. 2. _El valle de Santa Lucia_, two Leagues from this Town, and as much from the Sea, a _Spanish_ Colony. 3. _Macanao_, the onely noted Place belonging to the Natives. SECT. II. Cubagua. [Sidenote: Situation of _Cubagua_.] _Cubagua_ lies South-West of _Margarita_, about the eleventh Degree of North-Latitude, a League or thereabouts distant from _Margarita_, and six Leagues from the nearest Continent, and about three Leagues in circumference. This is also a very great Place for Pearl-fishing, the benefit whereof hath been so considerable, that the King of _Spain_’s Fifths are said to have amounted some years to fifteen thousand _Ducats_; but otherwise of a poor and barren Soil, not onely destitute of Water, but of Fruit, Grain, Herbage, and all manner of Cattel and eatable Beasts, except a few lean Coneys; nevertheless, in respect of the Pearl-fishing Trade, the _Spaniards_ have Planted here a Colony, which they call’d _New Cadiz_, having plenty of Provisions brought them from the adjoining Coasts, and soon after their first Planting grew in a short time so powerful, that they became Masters of one of the best Ports of those Seas, call’d _Maracapana Venezuela_; but upon an Alarm of the Salvages of _Cumana_, for a while deserted the Island, and betook themselves to _Hispaniola_; from whence nevertheless being remanded back with fresh Supplies, under the Command of _James de Castellon_, they soon re-instated themselves in their former Plantation, and made it more strong and flourishing than before; in which state they remain’d as long as the Pearl-fishing Trade continu’d, but that decaying, the splendor also of this Colony declin’d: so that at present the onely thing which makes the Place remarkable, is a Fountain on the East part of the Island, not far from the Sea, yielding a liquid bituminous Water, of singular use in Medicine, and sometimes found floating on the Sea at two or three Leagues distance. [Sidenote: The Island _Coche_.] About four Leagues distant from _Cubagua_ there is an Island call’d _Coche_, about three Miles in compass; It was discover’d in the Year 1529. and was formerly little less considerable for Pearl-fishing than the other two. SECT. III. Trinidado. [Sidenote: Situation of _Trinidado_.] The Island of _Trinidado_ was first discover’d by _Columbus_, _Anno 1447._ in his third Voyage, and by him so call’d, as some guess, from its three Points or Promontories; but that seems not so probable, in regard it is otherwise call’d _La Trinidad_, or _Insula Sanctæ Trinitatis_, and therefore is likely to have been denominated upon a religious Account: It lieth nine Degrees or thereabouts distant from the _Line_, at the Mouth of the River _Orenoque_, and is separated from the Coast of _Paria_, over against which it lies by a _Straight_ that is three Miles over, and which for the dangerousness of passing it, _Columbus_, the first Discoverer of it, call’d _Bocca del Draco_; the length thereof from the most Southern Angle call’d _Punta del Andrada_, to the North-East, call’d _Punta del Galera_, is reckon’d twenty five Leagues, (those that reckon fifty, may be suppos’d to mistake Leagues for Miles) and the breadth about eighteen. [Sidenote: Chief Commodities of the Island.] The Air of this Place is so impure, that it is accounted the unwholsomest Island of all the _Indies_; nevertheless the Soil is not unfertile, as bringing forth Sugar-Canes, Cotton, _Maize_, Tobacco of the best kind, with other Commodities of the general growth of the _West-Indies_, besides store of good Fruit and Cattel; and one part of the Island call’d _Terra de Bea_, produceth great plenty of Pitch, but not of the best kind; and there have been discover’d several Veins of Gold and other Metals. The Natives, some say, were antiently call’d _Cairi_, or _Carai_, and were distinguish’d into several _Clans_ or Tribes, each under the Government of a _Casique_, or petty Prince; but most of them dreading the _Spaniards_ Cruelty, deserted the Island, and Setled themselves in _Guiana_; and at present both this Place, _Guiana_, and _El Dorado_, have of Custom one and the same Governor, whose Place of Residence here is _St. Josephs_, the chief, if not onely Town of the Island; it stands Southward upon the _Carone_. Here most of that Tobacco is made, which is sold amongst us for _Spanish_. In the Year 1595. Sir _Walter Raleigh_ possess’d himself of it, being then but a petty Village of about forty Houses, and took Prisoner the then Governor _Antonio Berreo_, who, in all probability, to ingratiate himself with him, gave him some light towards the discovery of _Guiana_. [Sidenote: _Tabago._] On the North-East of _Trinidado_, and not above eight Miles distant from it, lies the Island of _Tabago_, which hath been already treated of, as one of the _Caribbees_, though some will have it one of the _Sotavento_; it is otherwise call’d _New Walcheren_, from a Town of that Name in _Zealand_, from whence a Colony of _Netherlanders_ was sent to Plant it. [Sidenote: _Virgin Gorda._] Amongst others of the small obscure Islands hereabouts, is _Virgin Gorda_, which is sometimes reckon’d amongst the _Caribbee_ Islands; but since there is nothing considerable to be spoken of it, it is sufficient that it hath been mention’d, though not punctually in its proper place. [Illustration] CHAP. XX. California. [Sidenote: _California_ how distinguish’d.] Having before made mention of _California_, as it is by some taken for that large portion of _Northern America_ which lies most Southward, and also utmost West of all that is known of the _New World_, and having treated of those several Provinces which are generally reckon’d to be comprehended in it, (excepting _California_ strictly taken, as it is generally granted to be an Island) _viz._ _Quivira_, _Cibola_, and _Nova Albion_, lying on the Continent (though there want not those who make _Nova Albion_ onely the North part of _California_) we shall close up our Discourse of these Islands that lie Northward of the _Equinoctial Line_ with the aforesaid _California_, specially so call’d, which was by many thought and describ’d to be but a _Peninsula_, or half Island, by reason that the Bay which divides it from _Quivira_ and _New Gallicia_, towards the North runneth much narrower than it doth Southerly, which made them think, that somewhere or other at the North it was joyn’d to the Main Land of _America_; But later Discoveries, as hath been said, have found it to be a perfect Island, and altogether separate from the Continent: for about the Year 1620. some Adventurers beating upon those Coasts Northward, accidentally, and before they were aware, fell upon a _Straight_, the Waters whereof ran with such a Torrent and violent Course, that they brought them into _Mar Vermiglio_, whether they would or no, and before they knew it, and by that means discover’d that _California_ was an Island, and that the Waters which were observ’d to fall so violently into that Sea towards the North, were not the Waters of any River emptying it self into the Bay from the Main Land, as was formerly thought, but the Waters of the North-West Sea it self, violently breaking into the Bay, and dividing it wholly from the Continent: It lieth North and South, extending it self in a vast length, full twenty Degrees of Latitude, _viz._ from twenty two to forty two; but the breadth nothing answerable: The most Northern Point of it is call’d _Cape Blanche_; that to the South, _Cape St. Lucas_, memorable for that rich and gallant Prize which Captain _Cavendish_, in the Year 1587. being then in his Voyage about the World, took from the _Spaniards_ near to this Place. As for the Island it self, it is at present little, if at all inhabited by the _Spaniards_; whether it be that they want Men to furnish new Plantations, or that they find no matter of invitation and encouragement from the Countrey, or perhaps that the access thither be not so easie: for ’tis reported to be wonderfully well peopled by the Natives, and that there were found onely upon the Coasts and along the Shore of _Mar Vermiglio_, twenty or twenty three Nations, all of different Languages; though from the particular Narrations that have been made of the Voyages of several eminent Persons into these Parts, it appears that the _Spaniards_ have taken great pains in the discovery thereof, and also from the several _Spanish_ Names of Places, that they have had Plantations here formerly, however neglected at present. [Sidenote: The Customs and Manners of the Natives.] The Countrey is abundantly well stor’d with Fish and Fowl, as appears partly by the Natives, who take a huge pride in making themselves gay with the Bones of the one, with which they load their Ears, and sometimes their Noses also; and with the Feathers of the other, which ordinary People wear onely sticking about their Wastes; but Great Persons, and such as will be fine indeed, beset their Heads strangely with them, and have commonly one Bunch of them bigger than ordinary hanging down behind them like a Tail. Having no knowledge of the true God, they worship what the Devil will have them, that is, the Sun, attributing to it onely the increase of their Plants, healthful Seasons, and most of the other good things they enjoy, or are sensible of. [Sidenote: Their Government.] Their Government is said to be onely _Oeconomical_, each Father ordering the Affairs of his Family apart, without subjection to any other Superior; yet so well manag’d, that they live in good Peace one with another; not without many good Laws and Customs, _viz._ That they allow but one Wife to one Man; That they punish Adultery with Death; That they suffer not Maids to talk or converse with Men till they be Married; That Widows may not Marry till they have Mourn’d at least one half year for their Husbands deceased; and divers others of like nature, which perhaps, if the truth were known, do more properly belong to the Natives of _Utopia_, or _New Atlantis_, than to these of _California_. [Sidenote: Places of note.] The Places therein, as yet observ’d, are onely upon the Sea-coasts, 1. The _Capes_ of _St. Clara_ and _St. Lucas_, the one at the South-East end of the Island, looking towards _New Gallicia_, the other at the South-West, looking into the Sea, and towards _Asia_. [Illustration] 2. _St. Cruce_, so nam’d from its being first discover’d on _Holy-Rood_-Day, being a large and convenient Haven, not far from _Cape St. Clara_. 3. _Cabo de las Playas_, so call’d from a company of little bare Hillocks appearing from the Sea, and is more within the Bay. 4. _Cabo Baxo_, so term’d, as lying towards the bottom of the Gulf. 5. _St. Andrews_, another convenient Haven upon an Island of the same Name. 6. _St. Thomas_, an Island at the Mouth of the Gulf or Bay, of about twenty five Leagues in compass, rising Southerly with an high mountainous Point, under which is a convenient Road for Shipping, and twenty five Fathoms of Water. On the other side of the Island, towards the Main Sea, there is 1. _St. Abad_, a good Haven, and almost surrounded with a pleasant and fruitful Countrey. 2. _Cape Trinidado_, a noted Promontory. 3. _Cape de Cedras_, so call’d (together with a small Island near it) from the store of Cedars growing thereabouts. 4. _Enganno._ 5. _Puebla de las Canoas_, so nam’d from the abundance of those little Boats which the _Americans_ generally use, and do call _Canoos_, whereof perhaps some store are made there. 6. _Cabo de Galera_, from its resemblance to a Rat. It is believ’d there are many more Promontories and Bays on both sides of this Island, besides Rivers and Islets, yet not nam’d, and altogether unknown. Moreover Dr. _Heylin_ hath well observ’d, that those above-mention’d are the Names onely of Places, and not of Towns and Villages, though doubtless there must needs have been some scatter’d Houses, built formerly by the _Spaniards_ in so many Expeditions. [Sidenote: _Cortez_ the first Discoverer of these Parts.] The first Discoverer of these Parts was _Ferdinando Cortez_, who having in the Year 1534. set out two Ships to that purpose from _St. Jago_, a Haven of _New Spain_, and not finding the Success answerable to his Expectation, went next Year himself in Person, and pass’d a good way up the Gulf, but for want of Provisions was forc’d to return without having done any thing to the purpose. In 1539. one _Francisco_, a Companion of _Cortez_ in the former Expedition, Set out upon his own Charges, and having Coasted all about, both upon the Eastern and Western Shores, he at last Landed, but not without notable opposition from the Natives, who with much clamour, and many antique Gestures set upon his Men so furiously with Stones and Arrows, that they had met with a shrew’d Repulse, had it not been for the Valor of their Auxiliaries, the Mastiff Dogs, which it seems they us’d to carry along with them in those kind of Voyages; but at last he got footing so far, that he took possession in the Name of the King of _Spain_ with the usual Formalities; and following the Example of _Columbus_ set up a Cross in the Place for a Memorial and Testimony of his having been there. [Sidenote: _Marco de Nisa_ his Relation of these Parts.] Much about the same time _Marco de Nisa_ a _Franciscan_, undertaking a Voyage into these Parts, reported Wonders at his Return, of the plenty of golden Mines, stately Cities, set out with magnificent Buildings, the very Gates whereof were enrich’d with _Turquoises_, and other Precious Stones, and whose meanest Inhabitants went glittering in Gold and Mother of Pearl, and of the flourishing Condition of the Kingdoms of _Acu_, _Tonteac_, and _Marata_; whereupon the Governor of _New Gallicia_ was sent by the then Vice-Roy of _Mexico_, with great hopes of bringing back a Confirmation of these Reports; but whether out of spite to be deceiv’d in his Expectation, or having real cause so to do, he represented all things as mean and despicable, as the Fryer had proclaim’d them rich and glorious. [Sidenote: _De Alarcon_ his Voyage.] The next that went upon this Design was _Ferdinando de Alarcon_, who is reported to have Sail’d many Leagues up a River call’d _Buena Guia_, and there to have receiv’d Homage of _Naguacatus_, one of the Heads of the _Californian_ Tribes. [Sidenote: _Cabrillo_ his Expedition.] One more Attempt was made in the Year 1642. by _Roderico Cabrillo_, who discover’d the Island of _St. Luke_, and another call’d _The Island of Possession_; and this was the last we hear of that thought it worth while to go an Undertaker to these Coasts, and ever since all Undertakings hither have been so wholly laid aside, that what-ever was once discover’d in these Parts, seems rather to be lost and forgotten, than any way improv’d. As for _Nova Albion_, whereas many determine it to be onely the utmost Northern part of _California_, though it doth not absolutely appear to be so from the Relation of Sir _Francis Drake_’s Discovery of it, we judge it agreeable to Method and Decorum not wholly to omit the mention of it in this place, though it hath been already spoken of, and the aforesaid Relation deliver’d at large amongst the rest of those Provinces of largely-taken _California_, which were taken for granted to be upon the Continent. [Sidenote: _Drakes_ Account of the Countrey.] _Drake_ and his Company brought home this Description of the Countrey and its Inhabitants, _viz._ _That the Countrey was exceedingly well stor’d with Deer, Grazing up and down the Hills by thousands in a company; That the Men generally went naked all over, the Women using onely a piece of a Mat, or some such thing instead an Apron; That their Houses were built onely of Turf and Osier, yet so wrought together, that they serv’d very well to keep out the Cold; in the midst of it was their Hearth where they made their Fire, and lay all round about it together upon several Beds of Bull-Rushes. What their Towns Were, or whither they had any, is altogether unknown_. [Illustration] The Third Book, CONTAINING A DESCRIPTION OF PERUANA OR, Southern America. CHAP. I. [Sidenote: Situation and Form of _Southern America_.] Having compleated our Description of _Mexicana_, or _Northern America_, being that great _Peninsula_ which lies Northward of the _Isthmus_, or _Straight_ of _Darien_, together with all the Islands on the North side of the _Equinoctial Line_, we come now to the Southern Part, otherwise call’d _Peruana_, from _Peru_ the chief Kingdom thereof, being the other great _Peninsula_, which lies Southward of the aforesaid _Straight_: It is generally resembled to the form of a Pyramid revers’d; the Basis whereof, that is to say, the more Southerly parts of it towards _Magellanica_ and the _Straights_, extend themselves largely both East and West, becoming more sharp and streight towards the North, and those parts by which it is joyn’d to _Mexicana_: in the whole it is suppos’d to contain a Circuit of seventeen thousand Miles at least, and is water’d with four of the greatest Rivers of the World, besides abundance of lesser Streams, which issuing from the _Andes_ and other Mountains of the Countrey, do run from all Parts both into the North and South Sea, much fertilizing the Countreys through which they pass; the four principal are these following: [Sidenote: The chief Rivers thereof.] 1. _Orellana_, so call’d from the first Discovery thereof by _Franciscus de Orellana_, otherwise the River of _Amazons_, from a Generation of warlike Women, who (as the Tradition goes) inhabited certain Countreys lying upon the Banks thereof. This riseth in the Province of _Peru_, and runneth a Course of little less than five thousand Miles, discharging it self at last into the North Sea, through a Channel, as some say, of threescore Leagues broad, and yet with such a violent Current or Stream, that it is said to keep its natural colour and taste almost thirty Miles in the Sea. 2. _Orenoque_, by some call’d _Raliana_, from Sir _Walter Raleigh_, who endeavor’d to discover it, a River of the Province of _Guiana_, whose Head or Spring is not yet discover’d: It is said to be Navigable a thousand Miles together by the tallest Ships, and no less than two thousand by Pinnaces and smaller Vessels, and dischargeth it self likewise into the North Sea by sixteen several Channels or Mouths, making thereby several Islands; some whereof are said to be of good bigness, and to lie at a distance of a hundred Miles or more one from the other. 3. _Maragnon_, a River of a yet larger Course than any of the former, being, as ’tis said, no less than six thousand Miles from its Head, which is out of the _Andes_ in _Peru_, to its Fall, which is likewise into the North Sea about _Cape Blanco_, by a Channel of seventy Leagues in breadth. 4. _Rio de la Plata_, otherwise call’d _Paraguay_, a River of two thousand Miles Course, and falling as the rest into the North Sea, by a Channel of threescore Miles over, and about thirty Degrees Southward of the _Line_, towards the _Straights_ of _Magellane_. [Sidenote: The Mountains _Andes_.] The _Andes_, or Mountains before mention’d being the most noted, and biggest of all _America_, and indeed of the whole World, and thought by _Cortesius_ to be the same with _Sephar_, spoken of in the tenth Chapter of _Genesis_, run above a thousand Leagues in length from _Timama_, a Town of _New Granada_ in the Province of _Popayan_, and are in the narrowest place about twenty Leagues broad; and also of equal heighth with, if not higher than _Caucasus_ it self: the Ascent to them is unpassable, except in very few places, by reason of craggy Precipices, and wild overgrown pathless Woods, serving onely for a shelter to Serpents and other poysonous Animals, which are there so numerous, that a whole Army of one of the Kings of _Peru_ is reported to have been destroy’d by them; and what-ever People there are inhabiting in any of these Woods and Fastnesses, must needs be in the very utmost degree of rude and brutish salvageness. Some divide _Southern America_ into _Peruviana_ and _Brasiliana_: _Peruviana_ they subdivide into _Terra Firma_ and _Peru_; _Brasiliana_ into _Brasile_ and _Paraguay_: But the most receiv’d and commodious Division is into these particular Provinces following, all of them wealthy and large, _viz._ 1. _Castella Aurea_, or _Golden Castile_, 2. _Nova Granada_, or _The New Kingdom_, as they call it. 3. _Peru_, specially so call’d. 4. _Chile._ 5. _Paraguay._ 6. _Brasile._ 7. _Guiana._ 8. Lastly _Paria_, with some lesser Islands adjoyning to all or most of these Provinces, and commonly reckon’d as part of them. [Illustration] CHAP. II. Castella Aurea, otherwise call’d Terra Firma. [Sidenote: Description of _Castella Aurea_.] _Castella de Oro_, as the _Spaniards_ call it, or _Golden Castile_, taketh up all the rest of the _Isthmus_, or _Straight_ of _Darien_, which hath not been yet spoken of, being bounded Eastward, and to the North-East, with the _Atlantick_ Ocean; and on the West with _Mare del Zur_, and some part of _Veragua_; Southward it hath the new Kingdom of _Granada_. It is call’d sometimes _Terra Firma_, because it was one of the first parts of firm Land which the _Spaniards_ touch’d upon, after they had pass’d so many Islands, as seem’d for some time to block up, and bar them from the Continent of _America_: It is subdivided into these inferior Provinces or Countreys, _viz._ 1. _Panama._ 2. _Darien._ 3. _Nova Andaluzia._ 4. _St. Martha._ 5. Lastly, the little Province _De la Hacha_. [Sidenote: Rivers.] The chief Rivers of the Province of _Panama_ are 1: _Chagre_, as it was antiently call’d, but afterwards from the great number of Crocodiles that harbor in it, _Rio de Lagartos_, falling into the North Sea between _Nombre de Dios_ and _Porto Bellano_. 2. _Sardinilla._ 3. _Sardina._ 4. _Rio de Colubros_, so call’d from the abundance of Snakes breeding thereabouts. 5. _Rio de Comagre_, which falls into the same Sea. 6. _Chepo_, famous in times past for its Gold-Sands. 7. _Rio de Balsas_, whose Banks are shaded with good Timber-Trees. 8. _Rio de Congo_, which falls into _St. Michaels_ Bay. SECT. II. Panama. [Sidenote: Description of _Panama_.] _Panama_, commonly call’d _The District_, or _Circle of Panama_, is bounded Eastward with the _Gulf_, or _Bay_ of _Urraba_, by which it is separated from the rest of the Continent of this Southern part of _America_; on the West it hath _Veragua_, one of the Provinces of _Guatimala_; being on both the other sides wash’d with the Sea: It is suppos’d to contain in length from _Carthagena_ and _Popayan_, to the Confines of _Veragua_, about eighty or ninety Leagues, in breadth not above threescore in any part; and where it is narrowest, _viz._ betwixt the City of _Panama_ and _Nombre de Dios_, if measur’d by a right Line, not above six or seven over from Sea to Sea. It lieth almost under the _Equinoctial Line_, but a few Degrees Northward of it, and therefore somewhat hot, and by the neighborhood of both Seas subject to a foggy and gross Air, in comparison of some other parts; so that it is not counted generally so healthful a Countrey, especially for Strangers, and in Summer-time. [Sidenote: The antient Division of _Panama_.] The antient Division of _Panama_, according to the Lordships of the _Casiques_ that then Govern’d, were these following: _Careta_, _Aila_, _Comagre_, _Chiam_, _Coyba_, _Chame_, _Chiru_, _Nata_, _Tobre_, _Trota_, _Haylia_, _Burica_, and _Escotia_, where the South Sea with the Spring-Tides flowing over the Plains, at its return being hardned by the Sea, is turn’d into Salt; but as it hath always hapned in all other Countreys of the World, that with the alteration of Government, the Division of the Countrey, and the Names of Places have totally chang’d, so also here the antient Division of Regions and Territories must give place to the Modern. [Sidenote: The Nature and Customs of the antient Inhabitants.] The antient Inhabitants of these Parts were a very warlike People, the Women always accompanying their Husbands in the Wars. They us’d to hang on the tops of their Standards the Bones of their greatest Heroes, thereby to animate their Soldiers. Their Arms consisted of poysonous Arrows, Stone Swords, and Pikes made of the Palm-Trees. They also carried with them the Idol _Chiapa_, to whom they Offer’d living Children at the beginning of their Wars, and afterwards making Merry with the Flesh, anointed the Image with the Blood: Moreover, if they return’d home Conquerors, they spent several days in all manner of Debaucheries, as Drinking, Singing, Dancing, Cutting their Prisoners Throats, with their Blood also anointing their Image. But if they were conquer’d, then they invented new Offerings to reconcile themselves with their Idol. [Sidenote: Towns and Places of chief note.] The chief Towns and Places which the _Spaniards_ inhabit here, are 1. _Panama_, the chief City of the Province, being also a Bishop’s See, which is Suffragan to the Arch-bishop of _Lima_, and the ordinary Residence of the Governor and Courts of Justice for these Parts; It is seated likewise upon the South Sea, and so near, that at High-water the Ships are said to Ride even under the Walls. Through this Town the Wealth both of _Peru_ and _Spain_ passeth once every Year; from _Spain_ by _Nombre de Dios_ and _Porto Bello_, from whence whatsoever Merchandise or other Commodities come from _Spain_, are Transported to _Panama_ by Land, and from thence by Sea to all the Parts of _Peru_; and by _Panama_ whatsoever comes from _Peru_, is sent into _Spain_: It hath commonly a strong Garrison of Soldiers in it, and is doubtless a Place otherwise well fortifi’d, being of so great importance. From the Haven _Pericos_ three Ways lead to _Panama_, the first along a Bridge over a River, whose Banks are great Fortifications to the City, the rather because the River is deep, and next to it a Pool over-grown with Weeds. The Way from _Nombre de Dios_ plain and without Woods, is wash’d by the Brook _Levendero_. The third runs along over a Stone Bridge and Champain Grounds, that extend from the Haven _Pericos_ to the City. Eastward from _Panama_ appear seven Royal Houses on a Rock, wherein the Courts of Judicature are kept. Five hundred Rods into the Sea lies an Island resembling a Half-Moon, and the Haven wherein the Ships when they unlade cast Anchor, there being else not Water enough for laden Barques, and all lie dry, the Tide being out: At the Mouth thereof stands a woodden Sconce. The Places _Venta de Cruze_, _Chagre_, _Quebrada_, and _Ballano_, are also fortifi’d against any Invasion, where else an Enemy might easily Land: But the strictest Watch is kept at the River _Chagre_, which Westward below _Nombre de Dios_ falling into the Northern Ocean, brings the Ships up to _Venta de Cruze_, from whence a Way scarce five Leagues long leads to _Panama_. The _Spanish_ Commodities consisting most in Meal, Oyl, Biskets, Cloth and Silk, are all brought from _Nombre de Dios_ along the same Way; or else in Winter when they cannot stem the Current of the River _Chagre_, then they bring their Goods by Land, not without great danger of being taken by the run-away _Negro_’s, who set upon them out of the Woods with poyson’d Darts and Arrows; and as many _Spaniards_ as they take, so many several ways they put them to death, because they formerly in the time of their Servitude were us’d with all imaginable Cruelties. The Provisions sold here at a reasonable Rate are _Maiz_, _Peruan_-Meal, Poultrey, Honey, Cattel, Swine, Oranges, Lemmons, Cabbage, and all manner of Garden Herbs or Plants. Round about the fore-mention’d Royal Houses lie Bulwarks, with a strong Castle on one side. A fair Cathedral denotes the Place to be a Bishop’s See: And the _Franciscans_, _Dominicans_, and Monks of the Order _De la Merced_, inhabit several fair Cloysters here. Two Leagues Westward is the Haven _Pericos_, which being secur’d from all Winds by three high Isles that lie before it, is the chief Harbor in which the _Peruan_ Plate-Fleet (consisting most in small Barques) comes to an Anchor before they touch at _Panama_. The Countrey is for the most part Mountainous, and in many places sends forth stinking Damps out of muddy Pools; yet in some places are _Savanna_ Grounds for Cattel to Graze in. The Air would also be more unhealthful, if it were not clear’d by the Winds which blow from the Sea. From _July_ to _October_ there fall continual Rains, mix’d with terrible claps of Thunder. The Inhabitants often recreate themselves in Hunting wild Hogs, with Nets made of the Brambles call’d _Nequen_ or _Henachen_, and that after a strange manner: for they set on fire the Bushes all about the place where they suppose the Game to lie, which to shun the fire runs into their Nets; so that the same Bushes are both their shelter and destruction, as affording Material to make the Nets wherein they are taken. Besides other Birds the Woods also abound with Pheasants and Turtle-Doves; and amongst Beasts, those that carry their Young about them in a Bag, as also wildcats. The Sea abounds with Fish, and produces Crocodiles of a large size, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Lagartos_. The Trees are seldom without Leaves, but bear little or no Fruit. 2. _Nombre de Dios_, which hath broad Streets, high woodden Houses, and a fair Church: It extends from East to West along the Northern Ocean, in the middle of a great Wood on Moorish Ground, having a great Fen on the West; being situate under an unwholsom Climate, it hath occasion’d the death of many People. The Merchants which dwelt here had also Habitations in _Panama_, (the rest of the Houses being most of them Inns for Strangers) from whence as soon as they had gotten an Estate they went to _Spain_. The Countrey round about lies under Water in many places. The Oranges, _Cassada_-Roots, and the like, which grow here, occasion many Distempers to those that eat of them. In the Harbor, which hath on each side a Ridge of Rocks, on which lies decay’d Forts, the Sea is often-times so turbulent, that the Ships are forc’d to Ride at six Anchors apiece. Eastward from the City a fresh-Water River falls into the Haven, on whose Banks stand several Garden-Houses and Orchards. _Anno 1595._ Sir _Francis Drake_ arriving here, found a Mill beyond the City; not far from which on a Hill stood a Watch-house, of which having made himself Master, he set fire on the Town _Nombre de Dios_, as also on all the Vessels that were in the Harbor. The original of the Name _Nombre de Dios_ was on this occasion, _viz._ _Diego Niquesa_ setting Sail with three Ships out of the Haven _Carthagena_ to the Golden Countrey _Veragua_, was surpris’d by a violent Storm, in which two Ketches, Commanded by _Lupus de Olano_ and _Peter Umbria_ were driven out of sight, whilest he suffer’d shipwrack, and getting ashore, rang’d up and down in a desolate Countrey, where he found no other Food but Roots, till at last he met with _Olano_; when the Famine began to increase amongst them in such a nature, that being scarce able to carry their Arms, many of them were kill’d by the Inhabitants with poyson’d Arrows, insomuch that of seven hundred there remain’d scarce ninety: _Niquesa_ shipp’d as many of them in a new Vessel which they had made as it could possibly carry, and promis’d to fetch the rest off from _Veragua_ as soon as he had discover’d a Place fit to be inhabited: The first Place he Landed at was _Puerto Bello_; from whence being necessitated by the _Indians_ who gather’d together to Retreat Aboard, not without the loss of several Men, he set Sail to the Promontory _Mormor_, beyond which he Anchor’d in a secure Haven; where, as he was going ashore he call’d to his Men, saying, _Saltiamo in tierra al Nombre de Dios_, that is, _Let us Land in the Name of God_, and calling up a Fort against the Assaults of the Natives, call’d it _Nombre de Dios_. 3. _St. Philip_, or _Puerto Bello_, so denominated by _Christopher Columbus_ from its Haven lying along the North Sea, wonderful convenient and secure, by reason of the good Ground for Anchoring, and a Creek in the same, defended from all sorts of Winds; and which being surrounded with Woods, hath much over-flow’d Land about it, as also abundance of good Gravel for Ballast; for which and several other Reasons, the famous Architect _Baptista Antonelli_ advis’d the _Spanish_ King, to build this City for a Staple of Trade (in stead of _Nombre de Dios_, which was found unhealthy) having pitch’d upon an excellent Situation for it, _viz._ on a Plain at the Foot of a Hill, where there are three fresh Rivulets, meeting with a fruitful and hot Countrey: wherefore his Advice being taken, they first built a Fort at the Mouth of the Haven, put five Guns into the same to defend the new City, and on the Shore a strong Tower with eight Drakes: Moreover, the Rocks along the Shore, and close Woods about the Haven prevent the Landing of an Enemy: But at the very time that this City was just begun to be built, Sir _Francis Drake_ having burnt _Nombre de Dios_, ran into the Haven _Puerto Bello_, where he found ten Houses, besides the Governors Palace, and a Castle whose Breast-works which the _Spaniards_ had lately rais’d of Timber, Stone, and Earth, were all demolish’d by the _English_: But the _Spaniards_ have since re-built the same, and fortifi’d the Haven, with two strong Castles, notwithstanding in the Year 1661. it was surpriz’d and taken by the _English_ under the Command of Captain _Parker_, and the Governor _Petro Melendez_ taken Prisoner. 4. _Nata_, commonly call’d _St. Jago de Nata_, situated on the West side of this Province, upon _Mare del Zur_, or _The South Sea_, about thirty Leagues distant from _Panama_, towards the Borders of _Veragua_. 5. _Acla_, a Town upon the same Coast, but lying South-East of _Nombre de Dios_: It was at first onely a Fort built by _Peter de Arias_, but afterwards grew up into a small City, of which at present there is nothing remaining but the remembrance of the famous _Vasquez Nunnez_, Beheaded by his Father-in-law _Arias_. 6. Lastly, _La Crux Real_, a few Leagues distant from _Panama_, for the most part inhabited by a sort of _Negro_’s call’d _Simmerones_. Along the North Coast of _Panama_ are two small woody Islands call’d _Cattiva_ and _Comagre_, lying low in the Water; also the Isle _De Pines_, which rises high out of the Sea near the Main Land. [Sidenote: The _Isles of Pearls_.] On the Southern Coast are _Isole de las Perlas_, or _The Isles of Pearls_, about twenty five in number, but indeed rather Rocks than Islands, excepting two, _viz._ _Tararequi_ and _Del Rios_ where in former times the _Indians_ took great store of Pearls, by diving for them to the bottom of the Sea; and they were esteem’d of greater value and excellence than those of _Cubagua_, and great profit was made of them by the _Spaniards_, till by their Cruelties exercis’d upon the Natives through excessive greediness, they depopulated the Islands, and lost that altogether of which before they were so insatiable: they are now onely inhabited by a few _Moors_ and other Slaves, who keep Cattel there for their Masters. [Sidenote: Captain _Oxenham_’s Expedition.] It will not seem amiss to conclude our Description of _Panama_ with a short Account of the _English_ Captain _John Oxenham_’s Exploits in these Parts: He being incited by the Treasure which Sir _Francis Drake_ fetch’d from hence, resolv’d to Steer for the Northern Coast of _Panama_, where he hal’d his Ship of a hundred and twenty Tun on Shore, and cover’d the same with Trees, buried his Guns, and march’d with two Field-Pieces and seven Men up into the Countrey, and was by the _Indians_ conducted to a River which falls into the South Sea, where he built a Pinnace of forty five Foot long, and Sailing into the South Sea, Landed on _Tararequi_, one of the Islands of _Pearls_; where he soon after took a _Peruan_ Barque with sixty thousand pieces of Gold, store of Wine and Bread, and the day following another which came from _Lima_, loaden with a hundred thousand Pound in Silver Bars, and some Pearls; with which being enrich’d he return’d to the Main: The Governor of _Panama_ being inform’d of it, put a hundred Soldiers into four Barques, besides a considerable number of _Negro_ Slaves; over which _Juan de Ortego_ having the chief Command, was inform’d at _Tararequi_ what Course the _English_ had steer’d; whereupon he pursu’d them to the River whither they were gone, which falling with three Arms into the Sea, they could not have known which way the _English_ went, unless they had seen some Feathers of Fowls driving in the Mouth of the least Branch, by which they judg’d that they were not far off; therefore Rowing up they found after four days Journey the Pinnace hal’d on Shore, and watch’d by six Men, who were order’d to stand Sentinel, whereof one being shot by the _Spaniards_, the other five fled; whom _Ortega_ pursuing, found half a League from the Shore a Hut made of Boughs, wherein the Booty lay, which he speedily carried to his Barques; but Captain _Oxenham_ inform’d hereof, fell with two hundred _Indians_ upon the _Spaniards_, who having a Wood on their Backs made such advantage thereof, that eleven _English_ were slain, and seven taken, and had not the rest fled, they had all been either kill’d or taken Prisoners: Those that were taken inform’d _Ortega_ that they had been at difference amongst themselves about dividing the Booty, which was the reason of their staying so long: moreover, they discover’d where and how their Ship lay; all which the Governor of _Panama_ writ to _Nombre de Dios_; from whence four Sail were immediately sent to find out the Ship and the buried Guns, as also to take all such _English_ as they should find preparing of Boats or Barques, and bring them to _Panama_; whereupon very many were taken, who were all miserably slain, except a few Youths. SECT. III. Darien. [Sidenote: Description of _Darien_.] _Darien_, which by some Authors not being thought considerable enough to make a distinct Province, is reckon’d one and the same with, or at least part of, _Panama_, hath on the North the District or Circle of _Panama_; on the South, the new Kingdom of _Granada_; Eastward it is bounded with the Gulf of _Urraba_ abovesaid, and some part of the River _Darien_, which giveth Name to the Province; and to the West, with the South Sea; of a more temperate Air by far than that of _Panama_, and a Soil so admirably fruitful and lusty, that they say Melons, Cucumbers, and generally all other Fruits of the Garden, are ripe and fit to gather within twenty days or less, after their first sowing, but very much infested by noxious Creatures, as Lyons, Leopards, wild Cats, Crocodiles, Serpents, and Bats, after whose Bitings a Man bleeds to death, unless he washes the Wound well with Sea-water, or stop it with hot Ashes; and no less by the unwholsomness of the Air, which is infested by the many stinking Damps that arise from the muddy Pools. The Inhabitants are sickly, and seeming generally to be troubled with the Yellow Jaundice, never attain to a great Age: they go naked, the Men onely covering their Privities with a Shell or Cotton-Cloth: The Women wear a Cloth which reaches from the Middle down to their Knees, but if Women of Quality, to their Feet. [Sidenote: _Sebastian_ and _Antiqua_, by whom built.] The _Spaniards_ have many years ago made themselves Masters of this Province of _Darien_, in which _Alphonsus Fogeda_ built the City _Sebastian_, which was inhabited till a _Spanish_ Knight call’d _Ancisius_, _Anno 1510._ built _Antiqua_, and made it a Bishop’s See, which by reason of the unwholsomness of the Place was remov’d to _Panama_, when _Vasquez Nunnez_ discover’d the Southern Ocean, _Anno 1590._ because _Antiqua_ lay on a low Ground between high Mountains, where the Sun burnt exceedingly, and the Way to the South Sea, being three Leagues from thence, it was very troublesom to convey Merchandise thither. But a worse Accident befell the Town _St. Cruiz_, which being built by the _Spanish_ Captain _Peter de Arias_, was ruin’d by the _Indians_. [Sidenote: Rivers.] The chief Rivers are 1. _Darien_, which gives Name both to the Province and the Provincial Town, and falls into the Gulf of _Urraba_, being a large Arm of the Sea, eight Leagues over at the Mouth thereof. 2. _Rio de las Redas_, which runs in like manner through the Province of _Nova Andaluzia_, and falls also into the same Gulf. So likewise doth 3. _Rio de la Trepadera._ 4. _Corobaci._ 5. _Beru_, chiefly remarkable upon this Consideration, that some curious Etymologists have endeavor’d to derive the Name of _Peru_ from this River, by the alteration onely of the initial Letter. [Sidenote: Places of chief note.] The chief, and indeed the onely Town of this Tract is _Darien_, built as aforesaid by _Encisus_, a _Spanish_ Adventurer, and by him call’d _St. Maria Antiqua_, and by others _The Antique of Darien_, being one of the first Towns that were built by the _Spaniards_ on the firm Land; though there are who make mention of two other small Towns or Villages, the one nam’d at least, if not built by the _Spaniards_, viz. _Los Angelos_, scarce inhabited at present by any but the Salvages; the other an antient Town of the Natives, call’d _Bizu_. SECT. IV. New Andaluzia. [Sidenote: Description of _New Andaluzia_.] Eastward of _Darien_ and the Gulf of _Urraba_, lieth the Countrey of _New Andaluzia_, otherwise call’d _Carthagena_, from the Name of its principal City: On the East it hath the Countrey call’d _St. Martha_; on the North, the Main Ocean; and _New Granada_ towards the South. It is for the most part a Mountainous Countrey, and full of Woods, which they say yield abundance of Rozen, Gums, and some very good Balsams; also a sort of Long-pepper, much sharper than that of _East-India_. But the Plains, by reason of much Rain, to which the Countrey is subject, especially for some times of the year, of but a spewy and cold Soil. The _Spaniards_ at their first coming found it a rich Countrey, not so much from the Nature and Profits of the Soil (though it be said to have some Mines in it, and those of Gold) but by reason of a certain Opinion and Respect, which the _Americans_ of these Parts are generally said to have born towards this Countrey, insomuch that they would be brought and buried there from other Places very remote; and according to the Custom of the Countrey, not without good store of Gold and other Jewels, according to the Quality and Condition of the Person that was buried; of which the _Spaniards_ soon gain’d Intelligence, and in ransacking the Graves and Monuments of the Dead, are suppos’d to have found an infinite Mass of Treasure: but those Mines are long since exhausted. [Sidenote: Nature and Customs of the antient Inhabitants.] The Inhabitants of old suffer’d great prejudice by Tygers and Serpents; yet nevertheless this Countrey was very populous before the _Spaniards_ arrival here; the Natives wore Cotton Aprons before, and Golden Rings about their Arms and Legs, as also Strings of Pearl, and the like. The Women here, as in the rest of these Parts, went with their Husbands into the Wars, and behav’d themselves valiantly, shooting poyson’d Arrows, insomuch that _Martin Ambesus_ took a Maid, _Anno 1509._ who had kill’d twenty eight _Spaniards_. [Sidenote: The Countrey _Urraba_.] To the Province _Carthagena_ belongs also the Countrey _Urraba_, which is so fruitful, that all kind of _Spanish_ Trees and Seeds grow better here than in _Spain_: Besides which it hath its own Fruit, as also abundance of Pine and Palm-Trees, whose Leaves serve for Brooms. The _Guaiana_-Tree bears a sharp kind of Fruit like a Lemmon, the _Guaravana_ a kind of Cittrons, the _Mameisa_ a Fruit not unlike an Orange, but tasting like a Melon, and the _Hovos_ a great Plum. Their Gardens abound with the Root _Batata_, whose Leaves send forth several Strings, which over-spreading the Ground fasten in the Earth, and take new Roots; it is yellow without, and whitish within, and bears pale green Flowers, which at last turn to a Cod full of Seed. These Roots roasted in hot Ashes, exceed our _European_ Turnip; and beaten and put in Water till it works over, makes a Drink, with which the _Indians_ Drink and Carouse till they are Drunk. [Illustration: CARTAGENA] [Sidenote: A strange Beast.] Moreover, _Urraba_ abounds in Venison, Fish, and all sorts of ravenous Creatures, as Tygers, Lyons, and a particular strange Beast as big as an Ox, having an Elephants Nose, Horses Feet, and hanging Ears. The Trees likewise swarm with Birds; and especially near Lakes or Pools breed Pheasants and Parrots, of which some are bigger than Capons, others no bigger than Chickens. [Sidenote: The Mountain _Abibe_.] Against _Urraba_ juts the Mountain _Abibe_, whose length Westward remains unknown; the breadth thereof in some places is about twenty Leagues; it hath many Ways which cannot be travell’d with Horses. The top of this Mountain is uninhabited; but along the Valleys, which are many and large, dwelt formerly a People that possess’d great Riches in Gold, which they gather’d out of Rivulets that fell Westward from the tops of the Mountains. It Rains here almost all the year long, which makes the Ways very bad for Travellers to pass. At the Foot of this Mountain, towards the South, lie two small antient Casiquedoms, if we may so call them, formerly inhabited by a valiant People, call’d _Tarabe de Zenu_, whether chiefly the dead Bodies were brought from all the adjacent Countreys, to be buried in great State, as hath been before intimated. [Sidenote: Towns and Places of principal note.] [Sidenote: The Description of _Carthagena_.] The principal Towns and Places of note are 1. _Carthagena_, (so call’d either from the resemblance of its Situation with the City _Carthagena_ in the Kingdom of _Murcia_ belonging to _Old Spain_, or because the first Inhabitants were Citizens of the said City) which was begun to be built _Anno 1532._ by _Peter de Heredia_, but fully finished by _Georgio Robledo_, eight years after the first Foundation thereof was laid. This Episcopal Metropolis is on the North wash’d by the North Sea over a plain shallow Ground; on the Land side the Sea flows through a narrow Bay by the City towards the Lake _Canupote_, which ebbs and flows equal with the Ocean, and receives and discharges its Water through two Pipes which lie under a long Bridge, joyning _Carthagena_ to the Main Coast. This City boasted long since above five hundred Stone Houses, being divided into twenty six large Streets, whereof four are six hundred and twenty Paces long: behind each House is a Garden; and the Church appears above all the other Buildings: The _Dominicans_ Cloyster is also fairly built; neither is the _Franciscans_ inferior to it, who also possess a second Edifice on the Main Continent over the Bridge. The Custom-house and Court where the Courts for the whole Province of _Carthagena_ are kept, are also stately Structures. The Haven hath two Entrances, the chiefest whereof lies half a League Eastward from the City, and the Western, call’d _La Boca_, is as far again; both very dangerous, because of the many blind Rocks that lie before them. _Anno 1585._ when Sir _Francis Drake_ took _Carthagena_ by Storm, the whole was fortifi’d with Sconces, besides two Forts for the better security thereof, whereof one lock’d up the narrow Mouth of the Haven with a strong Chain; not far from which stood an Abbey, Dedicated to the _Franciscans_, and Wall’d round about; since which they have several Out-works, Forts and Towers, to prevent all foreign Invasions. The City grows wealthy daily by the _Peruan_ Plate-Fleet putting in there before they go to _Spain_, and especially by the Trade from _New Granada_ along the River _Magdalena_. The Island before the Haven, antiently call’d _Codega_, now _Carex_, inhabited by Fisher-men when the _Spaniards_ Landed there, is now desolate, the remainder of those that were destroy’d by them being fled to wild places from the _Spaniards_ Cruelties; notwithstanding the People hereabouts were valiant enough to Engage with them. But since the Devastation made by Sir _Francis Drake_, _Carthagena_ hath receiv’d a more fatal Blow; for it was scarce fully repair’d, when five _French_ Privateers burnt the City to Ashes: which Mischief was occasion’d by a _Spanish_ Seaman, who being whipt by Command of the Governor, resolving for Revenge, went from _Spain_ to _France_, and conducted the fore-mention’d Ships to _Carthagena_, where he reveng’d himself on the Governor; for finding him asleep, he first wak’d him, and after having told him of his causing him to be Whipt, he kill’d him. The Booty which the _Spaniards_ carried from thence at that time amounted to above a hundred and fifty thousand _Ducats_. [Sidenote: The Balsam of _Tolu_ very famous.] 2. _Tolu_, by the _Spaniards_ now call’d _St. Jago_, twelve Leagues distant from _Carthagena_, a Place memorable for the excellent Balsam which is brought from thence, and commonly call’d _The Balsam of Tolu_; it is gather’d in a Spoonful of black Wax, stuck under the Hole cut in the Bark of a low Pine-Tree, out of which in hot Weather runs a Golden colour’d Gum, very soveraign, and of an excellent smell. 3. _St. Crux de Mopox_, a neat Town, seated a little above the confluence of the two Rivers, _St. Martha_ and _Magdalena_, which waters this Province. 4. _Baranca de Nolambo_, a Place of great Traffick, especially for all Commodities of the new Kingdom of _Granada_; it standeth upon the Banks of the River _Magdalena_, and about six Leagues distant from the Sea. 5. _Buena Vista_, otherwise call’d _St. Sebastian de Buena Vista_, a Town commodiously seated upon a rising Ground not far from the Gulf of _Urraba_, or the Sound of _Darien_, about a League and a half from the Sea. 6. _Villa de St. Maria_, thirty Leagues Southward of _Carthagena_. [Sidenote: Rivers of _Carthagena_.] The Province of _Carthagena_ is stor’d with many Brooks and great Rivers, amongst which the Stream _Cauca_ falls into the River _Magdalena_, beyond _Popayan_ near _Mopox_. The River _Zenu_, which gives Denomination to the above-mention’d Territory, makes a very convenient Harbor with its Mouth, where much Salt is to be had. The _Daria_, which runs between _Panama_ and _Carthagena_ into the Inlet _Urraba_, gives its Denomination to the foregoing Province, through which it also runs, as hath been already mention’d. The River which for its greatness is call’d _Rio Grande_, or _Magdalena_, (because it was discover’d on the Day Consecrated to that Saint) falls with such force into the Northern Ocean, about twenty three Leagues Eastward from _Carthagena_, that running two Leagues broad and ten long into the Sea, it retains its freshness of Water; in which there lying many Rocks, makes the same very dangerous for Ships. In the Mouth of the Haven lies an Island, which is divided by the River, the widest and most frequented Channel of which respects _St. Martha_, where those that carry the Merchandise up this Stream to _New Granada_, spend two Moneths in Toeing, whenas they come from thence in three Weeks. Thunder and Lightning rages here many times after a terrible manner from Midnight till Morning. In _January_ there falls also abundance of Rain, which gliding from the Mountains swells the River exceedingly. SECT. V. St. Martha. [Sidenote: Description of _St. Martha_.] _St. Martha_, so call’d from the chief City of the Province, is border’d on the West with _New Andaluzia_; on the East, with _Rio de la Hacha_; on the North, with the Ocean; and on the South, with _New Granada_; It is about threescore and ten Leagues in length, and not much less in breadth: It was antiently distributed into several little _Seignories_, Govern’d by _Casiques_, or petty Princes, _viz._ _Pozigueica_, _Betoma_, _Buritaca_, _Chimola_, inhabited by valiant Men and beautiful Women, and above all the rest, _Tairona_, (whose People for a long time maintain’d War against the _Spaniards_) lying at the Foot of the high Mountains _Sierras Nevadas_, whose snowy Crowns are seen thirty Leagues off at Sea, and run along in a continu’d Ridge through _Peru_ and _Chili_ to the _Straights_ of _Magellan_. This Countrey was Discover’d, and part of it Planted, _Anno 1524._ by _Roderic de Bastredas_, who afterwards was murder’d in his Sleep by his own People. [Sidenote: The Nature of the Climate, and Commodities of the Countrey.] The Sun shines so exceeding hot near the Sea-coast, that there is no enduring of the same; but up in the Countrey the snowy Mountains occasion great Cold, and in Harvest and _October_ it Rains exceedingly, whereas at other times it is very dry Weather, and the Winds blow generally out of the East or North-East, yet the Land-Breezes coming out of the West bring sometimes Rains with them. From the Mountains, which are stony and barren, fall many Brooks and Rivers, which water divers Plains, the Grass and other Plants of which are often blasted by violent Storms; nevertheless Oranges, Lemmons, Granates, and all sorts of _Spanish_ Garden Fruits grow here in great plenty. The Woods afford likewise Pigeons, Partridges, Venison, and the like; the Rivers all manner of Fish, which are seen to swim in great numbers twenty Yards under the Water, especially in the Haven _St. Martha_, near which formerly liv’d many Fisher-men, who with Nets made of tough Twigs pleited together, caught such plenty of Fish, that they furnish’d all their Neighbors. The High-ways are made dangerous by Lyons, Tygers, and Bears. [Sidenote: Great plenty of Precious Stones in these Parts.] [Sidenote: _Peter di Lugo_ his Treachery to the Natives.] [Sidenote: The _Welsares_ Journey.] The Countrey _Buritaca_ affords the Inhabitants Gold; _Tairona_, excellent Stones against Bleeding and the Gravel, Jasper, Porphyr, and Gold; the Valley _Tunia_, many rich Emeraulds, which Stones us’d to be in great esteem before _America_ produc’d such great numbers of them. _Acosta_ relates, That a _Spaniard_ desiring to know the Price of an Emerauld, shew’d two to an _Italian_ Jeweller, who valu’d the one at a hundred, the other at three hundred _Ducats_; but soon after seeing a Chest full of them, said they were scare worth a _Ducat_ apiece; and that the Sute which the _Roman_ Lady wore, being beset with Emeraulds, and valu’d at four hundred thousand _Ducats_, would not sell now for half so much. This Stone or Jewel exceedingly fortifies the Sight, wherefore the Emperor _Nero_ represented the bloody Encounters of Fencers in an Emerauld. It is also judg’d to be good against the Falling-sickness, wherefore the _Indians_ hang them in their Noses to this day, and adorn their Idols with them; they grow in stony Rocks along Veins, not unlike Crystal, and in time obtain a glittering Greenness; the biggest of them that are found in this Age are most esteem’d of in _Genua_. The Emerauld Pillar, which as a wonderful Ornament stood in _Hercules_’s Temple in the City of _Tyrus_, being very famous amongst the Antients, was without doubt no more than a green Stone; and perhaps of the same Material, was the Pillar erected by the _Arabian_ King _Miramamolines_, in the Cathedral at _Corduba_. But the great fame of these Emeraulds incited _Gonzalvez Zimenes_, Governor of _St. Martha_, to leave his Place and seek for them; to which end he Sail’d up the Rivulet _Gayra_ with two Ketches and forty five _Spaniards_, who meeting with the Casique _Bagotta_, got much Gold of him, and afterwards went to the Valley _Tessuca_; of which _Simandoca_ being Governor, conducted _Ximenez_ twenty three Leagues farther to an Emerauld Rock, from whence he return’d exceedingly enriched; the rumor of which spreading up and down, made several travel thither; amongst whom was _Peter di Lugo_, Governor of _Terra Firma_, who sending for Aid from _Carthagena_, fought his way to _Bagotta_, who resisted him for some time, till at last being defeated he made Peace with them for a considerable quantity of Gold; which when _Peter di Lugo_ had receiv’d, not regarding his Word, he plunder’d all the Countrey, and having committed all imaginable Cruelties on the Natives, return’d home with an invaluable Mass of Gold and Emeraulds to _St. Martha_. Not long after the _Welsares_, _German_ Knights, came from _Venezuela_, (which City the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth Morgag’d to them _Anno 1518._) and travell’d through the snowy Mountains of _St. Martha_ with _Indian_ Guides, whose Instructions following, they digg’d many Emeraulds out of the Valley _Funia_; the Inhabitants of which affrighted at the sight of the Strangers, hang’d themselves out of despair, though naturally valiant, and ingenious in working in Tapestry the shapes of Tygers, Lyons, and other Beasts, and painting on the Walls of their Houses variety of Figures of divers colours, covering their Floors with Mats neatly pleited of Rushes. They fed on Fish, Venison, and Mans-flesh, and also on the Roots _Agies_, tasting like Chesnuts, _Yuca_, _Maiz_, _Batata_, and _Cassada_. [Sidenote: Chief Cities and Places of note.] The chief Cities and Places of principal note in this Province are 1. _St. Martha_, which gives Denomination to the whole Province, it stands built at the North Sea, which makes a large and convenient Harbor, being defended from the Winds by high Mountains and two Isles, is a Bishop’s See, and hath a large Cathedral. The Houses built of Canes are cover’d with _Palmito_-Trees, and some with woodden Shingles. The Haven hath neither Fort nor Castle to defend it, because there is no Trade but with the _Indians_, which bring Earthen Ware and Cotton Clothes to sell; and because the _Spanish_ Ships seldom come hither, the Place is much gone to decay, and the more, because it is no way defended against any Assault of an Enemy, which the _French_, and afterwards the _English_, under the Command of Sir _Francis Drake_, and the following Year under Captain _Anthony Shirley_ took advantage of, and plunder’d and burnt the City. 2. _Teneriff_, built on the Banks of the River _Magdalena_, forty Leagues from _St. Martha_. 3. _Tamalameque_, otherwise call’d _Villa de las Palmas_, twenty Leagues South of _Teneriff_, lying on a high stony Ground; between which are plain Pastures for Cattel, surrounded with high Woods, as also Pools made by the over-flowing of the Rivers, whose Banks are inhabited by the _Indians_, who are much addicted to Sleep and Drinking. The Pools before mention’d produce abundance of Fish, as also Crocodiles, and the terrible _Manati_ before describ’d. 4. _Ocanna_, which hath an Inland Haven. 5. _Ramada_, formerly call’d _New Salamanca_, standing at the Foot of the Mountain call’d _Sierras Nevadas_. This Town is famous for its Copper and Brass Mines. 6. _Cividad de los Reyes_, which built in the Valley _Upari_, stands on the Shore of the mighty River _Guataporeya_, where from the beginning of _January_ till _May_ the Eastern Breezes moderate the Heat, otherwise intolerable: But the continual Rains thereabout occasions the _Quartan_ Ague, and many such like Distempers. The Natives hereabouts, salvage and valiant, would never submit to the _Spaniards_. [Sidenote: The Tree _Xagua_.] The peculiar Plants of this Place are the Tree _Xagua_, which bears a Fruit like a Raisin, which dry’d and ground yields exceeding good Meal for Bread. [Sidenote: The Root _Scorzonera_.] The Root _Scorzonera_, which cures the Bitings of Serpents. The _Indians_ also use the Tail of a Serpent for a Remedy against the same Evil, as they take Tobacco against the Falling-sickness, and snuff the Powder in at their Nostrils, and drink the Juice thereof to cause Loosness. [Sidenote: Chief Rivers.] The chief Rivers of this Province, are 1. _Polomino_, so call’d from a _Spanish_ Captain, that was drown’d there with his Horse, falling from the _Sierras Nevadas_. 2. _Guatupori_, whose Water causes the Bloody-flux and Loosness, which again is cur’d by the same Water drunk with beaten Cinamon. _Guatupori_ reckons many Rivulets, amongst which the _Cesar_ and _Budillo_ are both large, deep, and abounding with Fish. Near the City _Los Reyes_ are three great Water-pits, triangular between stony Cliffs; nigh which a Tradition goes, That of old there lurk’d a terrible Serpent, which at times devour’d a thousand People; insomuch that none durst dwell thereabouts, till certain _Spaniards_ having the hardiness and curiosity to go seek out this Serpent, heard a great noise in the Pits, but saw nothing like the fore-mention’d Animal. Here are likewise several Fountains of Pitch and Tar. SECT. VI. Rio de la Hacha. [Sidenote: _Rio de la Hacha._] _Rio de la Hacha_ is the Name of a little Province lying on the North-East of _St. Martha_, wash’d on all other parts with the Waters of the Main Ocean, or with the Gulf or Bay of _Venezuela_. [Sidenote: Chief Towns of this Province.] The chief Towns of this Province, are 1. A small Town call’d _De la Hacha_, which gives Denomination to the said Province, having no convenient Haven, but otherwise seated in a Soil very rich and fertile, not onely of all sorts of Fruits and Plants, especially such as are brought from _Spain_, but likewise in many Mines of Gold, Gems of a large size and great value, and many excellent Salt-Wiches, as they call them; It is eight Leagues distant from _Salamanca_ aforesaid, and eighteen from _Cape Villa_, the most Westerly Point or Foreland of the Bay of _Venezuela_; and with the rest had the hap to be surpris’d and pillag’d by the _English_ with Sir _Francis Drake_ in the Year 1595. who refus’d twenty four thousand _Ducats_, which the Governor proffer’d him for the Pearls he had taken. 2. _Rancheria_, six Leagues Eastward of _La Hacha_, inhabited chiefly by Pearl-Fishers, or such as get their Living for the most part by Fishing for Pearl, which was wont to be good on these Coasts. 3. _Tapia_, five Leagues from _La Hacha_, and considerable, for that the adjacent Parts were laid waste by the _English_, to revenge the perfidiousness of the Governor of _Salamanca_, refusing to pay the four thousand _Ducats_ he had promis’d, upon Condition of their sparing the Town. [Sidenote: _Abibeca_ the last King of this Province.] The last King of those that Govern’d in any of these Provinces of _Terra Firma_, was _Abibeca_, who could not be won to come down from his Palace, which he had on the top of a Tree, till a _Spanish_ Officer, one _Francisco de Vanquez_ began to lay an Ax to the Root thereof. After _Didaco Niquesa_, _Alphonso Oreda_, and _Anciso_, had made very large Discoveries in these Provinces, _Valboa_ was the first that discover’d the Way to the South-Sea. [Illustration] CHAP. III. New Granada. [Sidenote: First Discovery of _New Granada_.] The new Kingdom of _Granada_, as ’tis commonly call’d, was for the most part both discover’d and conquer’d by _Gonsalvo Ximenes_, about the Year 1536. and with so good success, that in less than a years space, the whole Countrey was quietly setled under the _Spaniards_ Government, and the Captain with his small Company had made shift to gather together such a Mass of Treasure as may seem almost incredible, _viz._ from the _Reguli_, or petty Princes of those Countreys, whom he had either destroy’d or made Tributary. But a more particular Relation of _Ximenes_ his Journey take as followeth: [Sidenote: _Gustavo Ximenes_ his Expedition.] Being sent out by _Peter Ferdinando de Lugo_, to discover the Countreys that lay along the River _Magdalena_, he travell’d upon the right side of it with great trouble; for not onely the brambly Woods, Moors, and deep Brooks, made the Way exceeding bad to be travell’d, but also the Inhabitants, who fell upon him from their Ambuscades: yet at last he reach’d _Tora_, which Name he chang’d into _Pueblo de los Bracos_, because four Rivers unite their Waters there. Here ordering his Brigantines which were come up the River to cast their Anchors, he judg’d it convenient to stay all the Winter, because the swoln Rivers had drown’d the adjacent Countrey. _Ximenes_ observing that the _Indians_ fetch’d Salt from the Sea-side, judg’d that the Countrey was inhabited, and therefore in fair Weather march’d up to the Mountain _Opou_, behind which he found a Countrey full of Salt-pools, which produc’d Cakes of Salt. And somewhat farther the Province Govern’d by the Casique _Bogata_, who at first resisting the _Spaniards_, was soon put to flight, when he heard the noise of the Guns. The _Panches_ divided from _Bogata_’s Countrey by a small Mountain, also maintaining continual Wars with him, suffer’d the _Spaniards_ unmolested to travel through their Countrey, and the Valley _La Trompetta_, to a high barren Mountain, on the top of which _Ximenes_ found several Emeraulds; and going from thence fell upon the Casique _Tunia_, and three days Journey farther, upon the Governors _Sagamosa_ and _Diutama_; from which three Countreys he carried above a hundred and ninety thousand pieces of fine Gold, fifty five thousand pieces of indifferent Gold, and eighteen hundred Emeraulds; all which the _Spaniards_ left behind with Guards whilest they went back to _Bogata_ whom they found lying dead of his Wounds on a high Hill: But _Sagipa_, _Bogata_’s Successor, receiv’d _Ximenes_ with great Civility, to engage his Assistance against his Neighbors the _Panches_; which he did not refuse him: but afterwards he fell most perfidiously upon the said _Sagipa_, whom he caus’d to be Executed, because he either could not, or would not discover where those Riches were which _Bogata_ had left behind him. After he had pillag’d the little Region _Neyba_, and brought into subjection the whole Countrey, he gave it the Name of _New Granada_, from _Granada_ the place of his Nativity, being the chief City of the Kingdom of _Granada_ in _Spain_, and built the City _Santa Fe_; which done, he quitted the Place, upon information that _Sebastian de Bevalcazar_ coming from _Popayan_, was seeking a Way Northward; and not long after him _Nicholas Federman_ follow’d, each claiming _New Granada_ as their Right, whereas _Ximenes_ alledg’d, That the first Discovery thereof was to be ascribed to him onely: at last Agreeing, they resolv’d that it should be at the King of _Spain_’s disposal. [Sidenote: The Nature and Custom of the _Moxas_.] The antient Inhabitants, nam’d _Moxas_, divided their Countrey into two chief Principalities, _viz._ _Bogota_ and _Tunica_, which before the _Spaniards_ Arrival were each under their particular _Casique_ or Prince. The Men were of a good proportion; the Women also handsomer, and of a fairer Complexion than their Neighbors: Their Habit also consisted of black, white, and divers colour’d Cotton Cloaks, and some also had Bonnets of the same. The temperateness of the Climate makes little difference between Winter and Summer. Their Houses were of Planks, and cover’d with long Rushes. Their chiefest Food was _Maiz_ and _Cassave_, which first grows on Stalks as large as Canes, containing very large and weighty Spikes or Ears, each Ear generally yielding seven hundred Grains, which are Planted in hot and moist Ground; one Bushel Sow’n, generally produces three hundred. But the _Maiz_ is distinguish’d into a courser or finer sort, which last is call’d _Moroche_, the Leaves and Canes whereof afford a wholsom Provender for Horses, and the Corn, Bread for the Inhabitants, who make it several ways; for sometimes they boyl it in Water, and at other times parch it in Ashes, or grind it to Meal, which kneading into Dough, they make into Cakes, Biskets, and the like: Moreover, _Maiz_ steep’d in Water, and after being boyl’d and set a working, makes a very strong Liquor. They also use _Cassada_, which they make of the Root _Yuca_, which being large and thick, is cut in pieces, grated, and all its Juice, which is deadly poyson, being press’d out, is Bak’d in thin Cakes. There is likewise another sort of _Yuca_, which hath not so poysonous a Juice, keeping good a long time, and is both wholsom, and of a good taste. The Natives of old liv’d much upon the Roots _Yomus_, and _Cubias_, all sorts of Venison, Fowls, and Fish, which the Rivers and Lakes afford in great abundance. Those that are left of the Natives, are a deceitful, crafty, and ingenious sort of People, very apt to learn Art, and to Trade with Salt to _Rio Grande_, and the Mountain _Opou_. Besides Copper and Steel-Mines, this Countrey hath also several of Gold; and the Fields produce all manner of Plants. [Sidenote: The Nature of the _Panchas_.] The _Panchas_ which remain are yet a salvage People, but their Countrey is an indifferent fertile Soil, though not in all places alike; for those which border upon _Tunia_ fed much heretofore on Pismires, of which some being long, have double Wings, others lesser and without Wings; which last sort being roasted, are accounted a great Dainty, and a speedy Remedy against the Distemper of the Gravel. There are also a sort of venomous Pismires, which stinging a Man, cause a swelling and great itching, and these are call’d _Tayoques_, whose Stings are cur’d by a Plaister of bruis’d Pismires. [Sidenote: The Bounds and Dimensions of _Nova Granada_.] The Countrey is bounded on the North with _Castella Aurea_ aforesaid; on the West, with _Mare del Zur_; on the East, with _Venezuela_; the Southern parts of it being not well discover’d, by reason of certain huge and unpassable Mountains, which block it up wholly on that side, save onely where a Passage is kept open into the Province of _Peru_, specially so call’d: It containeth in length about a hundred and thirty Leagues, and not much less in breadth, being for the most part a very healthful Countrey, and abounding in Mines of the best sort of Metal, besides others of Brass and Iron. It is subdivided into these two Provinces, _viz._ _Granada_ and _Popayana_. SECT. II. Granada. [Sidenote: Description of _Granada_.] _Granada_, specially so call’d, is a Countrey of a very temperate and good Air, as hath been before observ’d, neither subject to over-much Cold, nor to extremity of Heat; which is the more to be admir’d by reason of its nearness to the _Line_, from which it is distant Northward but a very few Degrees. [Sidenote: Towns of chief note.] The Towns and Places of chief importance are, 1. _St. Foy_, commonly call’d _St. Foy de Bagota_, which was the old Name of this Province, and to distinguish it from another _St. Foy_, in the Countrey of _New Mexico_ above mention’d. It is the Metropolis and Capital City of this Province, an Arch-bishop’s See, and the ordinary Residence of the Governor, built by the above-mention’d _Gonsalvo Ximenes_ upon the Lake call’d _Guatavita_, and hath been long since inhabited by above six hundred Families of _Spaniards_. 2. _St. Michael_, twelve Leagues Northward of _St. Foy_, and a well Traded Town. The _Indians_ that dwell about this Place being above five thousand, pay great Tribute yearly. Not far from hence lies the Lake _Guatavita_, where the Inhabitants in former times Offer’d much Gold to their Idols. [Sidenote: Commodities of the Countrey of _Tocaima_.] 3. _Tocaima_, fourteen Leagues Westward from _St. Foy_, within a Territory which antiently belong’d to the _Panches_, who yet possess the worst part of it, lying still wild and unreduc’d: It is situate on the Banks of the great River _Pati_, which falls into the Rivulet _Magdalena_. This City, which enjoys the benefit of a wholsom Climate, is surrounded with Mines of Gold, Copper, Silver, and Lead. And besides the Fruits of the Countrey, all _Spanish_ Plants thrive exceedingly after once Planted; and though Sheep will not breed here, yet Kine, Hogs, and Goats increase daily, but are often devour’d by Tygers, Lyons, and Bears. The Woods produce Nut-Trees, Cedars, _Guaiacum_, or _Pock-Wood_, and the wonderful Tree _Zeyba_, whose Leaves fall off every twelve hours, and grow again. The Fowls of this Countrey are many and several. Near the City are sulphurous Fountains, whose Waters cure Scabs and Leprosie. In the Valleys also flow Springs of salt Water, which thrown on Herbs, turns to Rozen and Pitch, and is good to make Boats tight. The tops of the Mountains are continually cover’d with Snow, notwithstanding some of them vomit forth horrible Flames and Ashes, which are blown several Leagues over the Countrey. The vicissitude of the Weather occasions two Summers and two Winters; the first Summer begins in _December_, and the second in _June_; the first Winter accordingly begins in _March_, and the other in _October_. This alteration of Seasons is not distinguish’d by any change of Heat or Cold, but the continuance of fair Weather during the Summer, and in the Winter, of such terrible Hurricanes, that blow from North to South, or from South to North, with such Thundering and Lightning, as if the end of the World were at hand. The chiefest Trees that grow here are Cedars, and one that bears exceeding great Almonds. The _Quaque_ also bears a pleasant Fruit about the bigness of a Goose-Egg; and the Fig-Tree, Figs as large as Oranges. The _Agnapa_ which grows here is of such a nature, that an _European_ sleeping under it, swells exceedingly, but an _Indian_ bursts. The Bark and Sprigs of the _Hobo_, which grows high and round, serve against Swellings and Ulcers, and occasion also Loosness. Sugar-Canes grow also here in great abundance, amongst which feed certain Beasts like Hogs, whose Navels grow on their Backs; and large Stags. The Fountains in most places of this Countrey run with salt Water; and sometimes Salt is found between fresh-Water Brooks. The Natives, who are valiant, subtile, and well proportion’d, are since their giving over eating of Mans-flesh much increas’d, and many of them forsaking their Heathenish Idolatry, have embrac’d the _Roman-Catholick_ Religion. [Illustration: TERRA FIRMA et NOVUM REGNUM GRANATENSE et POPAYAN] 4. _La Palma_, built _Anno 1572._ in a certain Territory, the People whereof were antiently call’d _Musi_ and _Colymæ_. 5. _Trinidad_, which is indeed the antient _Tudela_ renew’d, or a City sprung out of the Ruines thereof. This _Tudela_ stood on the Shore of the River _Zarbi_, which running between high Mountains, makes the Rivulet _Turatena_, and in the same Territory as _La Palma_ above mention’d, _viz._ of the _Musi_ & _Colymæ_, by whom the _Spaniards_, who had here a Colony, were so exceedingly molested, that they deserted the same, together with their Governor _Peter de Orsua_: yet not long after the forsaken Place was again re-built by the Name of _Trinidad_; but that Place proving incommodious, was again abandon’d, and a new _Trinidad_ built, where now it is to be seen on a convenient place Eastward from the high and cold Mountain _Paramo_. From several rich Gemmaries thereabouts are digg’d store of Emeraulds, Crystal like Diamonds, white Marble, and the Beryl, especially on the Mountains _Ytoco_ and _Abipi_. 6. _Tunia_, having a Territory about it, to which it gives Denomination; It lies on a high Hill, from whence the Church and two Cloysters of the _Dominican_ Fryers are seen at a great distance. Here also is kept the greatest Market in _New Granada_. 7. _Pampelona_, sixty Leagues distant from _St. Foy_ to the North-East, abounding with Cattel and Gold. 8. _Merida_, surrounded with Corn-Fields, the farthest Town of this Province North-Eastward towards _Venezuela_. 9. _Belez_, which though it suffers great prejudice by a burning a Mountain that vomits Fire and Stones, and also Thunder and Lightning, is the greatest Residence of several Orders of Fryers. 10. _Marequita_, otherwise call’d _St. Sebastian del Oro_, which lies under a hot Climate, and hath much Pasture. 11. _Ybague_, the Habitation chiefly of _Dominicans_. 12. _La Vittoria de los Remedios_; and 13. _Juan de los Lanos_, or _St. John of the Plains_, seated in a rich Nook of the Countrey, where there are good Silver and Gold-Mines. The Merchandise that come to these Towns, are brought up the River _Magdalena_ in _Canoos_ of sixty Foot long. SECT. III. Popayana. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Popayana_.] _Popayana_, the other part of this new Kingdom, is border’d on the West with part of _Granada_ last spoken of, from which the River _St. Martha_ divides it for the most part: On the North it hath _Nova Andaluzia_, or _Carthagena_; on the West, _Mare del Zur_; and on the South, _Quito_, or rather some unreduc’d Countreys lying betwixt them both; It extends in length above a hundred Leagues from North to South, but in breadth, betwixt the River and the South Sea, not much above forty or fifty. The Countrey is said to be a little too much subject to Rain, yet not so, but that the fertility of the Soil answers the industry of the Inhabitants in most places very well. _Sebastian de Bevalcazar_, Governor of _Quito_, marching _Anno 1536._ with a Company of _Spaniards_ to _Otabalo_, where the Countrey _Popayan_ begins, was often set upon by the Natives from their Ambuscades, and the many Inconveniences which he suffer’d for want of Provisions, and trouble of travelling over the high Mountains, had necessitated him to return, had he not been resolutely bent to discover the Countrey; to which purpose marching on leisurely, he came into the heart of _Popayan_, where his wearied People sufficiently resting themselves amidst a fruitful Countrey, where they found pleasant Fruit-Trees, Houses full of Provisions, and fresh Rivers, which glided from the Mountain _Andes_, and some of the Rivulets also affording Gold, were encourag’d to build several Villages; in which nevertheless they made no Settlement, either because they could not get Gold enough, or else being driven from thence by the valiant Natives. [Sidenote: Cities and Towns of chief note.] The Places of chief note in it, are 1. _Popayan_, situate on the Banks of a fair River, but not nam’d, and in the midst of a Plain in a place of great Wealth, and enjoying a good Air. The original of the Name _Popayan_ is from the _Casique_ who Govern’d there at the time of the _Spaniards_ first Arrival. It is a Bishop’s See, and the ordinary Residence of the Governor of the Province. The chief Buildings are the Cathedral, and a Monastery of the Fryers _De la Merced_. The _Savanna_ Grounds towards the North feed many fat Cattel. The Fields produce the best _American Maiz_. Some of the adjacent Mountains either vomit Smoak, Flames, great Stones, or scalding Water, leaving a Salt behind it. Beyond the City _Popayan_ the great River _Magdalena_ takes its original in the Valley _Cali_, where several Brooks gliding from the Mountain _Andes_, inhabited by the _Cocunocos_, unite their Waters. 2. _Antiochia_, otherwise call’d _St. Fides de Antiochia_, on the Borders of _New Andaluzia_, and about a hundred Leagues from _Popayan_. In the midst of a small Territory to which it gives Name, in the Valley _Nore_, between the River _Magdalena_ and _Daria_, wash’d by Rivulets, whose Sands are Golden, and whose Banks are shaded with all sorts of Fruit-Trees. The Inhabitants white and very rational, sleep in the Night under the open Skye: Their Houses are built a good distance from the Highways; near which the Pastures feed abundance of Sheep. The Pools breed plenty of Fish, and the Mines store of Gold, especially in the Mountain _Buritica_. 3. _Caramanta_, seated likewise on the Banks of the River _St. Martha_, within a little Province also of the same Name; the Inhabitants whereof being valiant and strong go naked, and dwell in little Huts, make white Salt out of a Fountain and a little Lake: they generally go to _Antiochia_ in six hours, which is forty five Leagues, so swift runs the Stream. 4. _St. Anne_, in the _Cantred_ or Hundred of _Anzerma_, a Town neatly situate upon the side of an Hill betwixt two Rivers, and in the midst of Plain no less pleasant than fertile: It was so call’d by _Bevalcazar_, because the _Indians_ of this Place name the Salt _Anzer_; it is surrounded with Villages and Woods on a high Plain between two Rivers. The Air being exceeding hot, lightens generally every day. 5. The Village _Pueblo Llana_, which is inhabited by little People, who Trade in Salt, and have also Golden Rivulets. Near this Place is the Valley _Aburra_, consisting of many fruitful Plains, moistned by several Rivers; the Inhabitants whereof at the _Spaniards_ first coming thither, hang’d themselves, with their Wives and Children. 6. _St. Jago de Arma_, built in a Wood of Palm-Trees, so nam’d from the Territory in which it standeth, rich and famous for its Mines of Gold, which it is said to have many and very good: The Ground round about being Mountainous, hath several Rivers, the chiefest whereof call’d _Di Arma_, is dangerous to cross, especially in Winter. The unwholsom Air hereabouts occasions many Sicknesses. Amongst other Fruits that grow in this County, is the _Pytahaya_, which whoe’re eats, voids Urine as red as Blood. Adjacent to it are the little Provinces _Paucuran_, _Pozo_, and _Picara_, which possess Golden Mines: also the Territory _Carrapa_ which hath high and rugged Land, and many Rivulets: likewise the County _Quimbaya_, which abounds with thick and long Canes, wherewith the Natives build their Houses; in the hollow Bodies of these Canes the wild Bees gather store of Honey; and amongst them breed also exceeding great Lyons, the four-footed Beast _Chuca_ which carries its Young in a Bag, Stags, Rabbets and _Guadaquinajes_, which being bigger than Hares, are exceeding good Meat. The Mountain _Nevada_, wonderful high, and smoaking continually, produces the golden Rivers _Tacurumbi_ & _De la Cequo_. Twenty Leagues or more distant from _St. Jago_ is, 7. _Carthago_, the chief City of _Quimbayaes_, and by which the aforesaid Rivers run. The temperate Climate here gives Health and long Life to the Inhabitants, who have several Fountains of salt Water, and the Fruit _Caymito_, not unlike a Peach, black within, having little Kernels, and a Juice which Dyes so deep, that it can scarce be wash’d off. Horses and Cows they have likewise very plentiful. _Carthago_ it self stands in a pleasant Plain between two Rivulets; the Ways that lead to the same are very dirty, because of the continual Rain which falls there, with Lightning and Thunder. A League beyond the City flows the Stream _Consota_; near which lies a Lake, out of which Salt is made. 8. The City _Cali_, the Residence for the Governor and Collector, lying under a hot Climate in a plain Valley at a River, which falling from the Mountain, glides to the Stream _Magdalena_. Round about the same dwelt antiently several People, _viz._ the _Gorrones_, so call’d, because they nam’d a Fish _Gorron_, the _Chancos_, Giants, with long Faces and broad Foreheads, the _Aarbacoas_, _Agnales_, and _Los Timbas_, inhabiting among barren Mountains; but most of them were slain by the _Spaniards_, or destroy’d by one another, few onely escaping to the tops of the Mountains. The Countrey also swarms with wild Beasts, which have also devour’d many of the Inhabitants, both _Indians_ and _Spaniards_. 9. The Haven _Bonaventure_, situate in a deep Inlet, about which live some Families which send the Commodities that come from _New Spain_ to _Popayan_, _Cali_, and other Places; and though there be a Way along by the River _Dagua_, convenient for Mules and Horses to travel, yet it is seldom us’d, because the Cattel are so wearied out with the long Journey, that they cannot go through with their Loads; wherefore they employ the _Indians_ to carry their heavy Burthens over the Mountains, which they do for a small Reward. 10. _St. Juan de Pasto_, giving Denomination to the Countrey about it, and being built on the pleasant Plains of the Valley _Atris_, is situate in a wholsom Climate, and is moistned by several Fountains and the River _Angasmayo_, the Boundary of _Peru_. The _Spaniards_ have several Houses here, and breed store of Cattel, and especially Hogs. They have likewise Sugar-Mills, with which they make abundance of Sugar. The antient Inhabitants were salvage, deform’d, and of little Reason. 11. _Timana_, giving Denomination to the Countrey about, is plac’d under a hot Climate, yet the Inhabitants live long; they drive a great Trade with Thred spun out of the Herb _Pita_; and also with Sweet-meats, Fruits Preserv’d with Honey and Sugar, and especially a Kernel not unlike an Almond. In their Gardens they Plant the Herb _Cocoa_, which they chew constantly for the strengthning of their Hearts. Near _Pita_ is a Mountain with Load-stones; and somewhat farther the Habitations of the valiant _Yalcones_ in the Valley _Aquirya_, the _Paezes_, _Pixaos_, and _Manipos_, which so molested the _Spaniards_, that they forc’d them to forsake the Towns _Neyra_, _St. Vincent_, and _Ville de los Angelos_. 12. _Guadalajara de Buga_; and 13. _Sebastian de la Plata_, built on a Plain near the River _Guali_; the Countrey about which is exceedingly troubled with Earthquakes, and the Inhabitants with their Neighbors the _Nineres_, who bring the Flesh of their Prisoners to Sale in the publick Shambles. 14. _Almague_, built on a high Mountain, and lying under a cool Climate, is surrounded with fruitful Fields, which feed store of Cattel, and enrich’d with several Gold-Mines. 15. _Juan de Truxillo_, which the _Indians_ call _Yscance_. 16. _Madrigall_; 17. _Chapanchipa_; 18. _Malaga_; and 19. _Agreda_; the Mountains about which inclose store of Gold. Between the Promontory _De Corrientes_ and the Island _Palmas_, are the Rivers _Salinas_ and _Balsas_, which fall into the Southern Ocean; _St. Juan_, whose Banks are inhabited by a salvage People which dwell in the tops of the Trees, because the River oftentimes overflows the Countrey. They sowe Pease and Beans, and catch Fish, but buy other Provisions, with Gold. [Sidenote: The Isle _Gorgona_.] Against the Mouth of this River _St. Juan_ lies the Isle _Gorgona_, three Leagues in circumference, which is compar’d to Hell, because of the dismal Woods which are upon it, barren Mountains, Millions of _Musticho_’s, whose Stings are intolerable, and never-ceasing Rain, insomuch that the Sun never shines upon it. [Sidenote: The Isle _Del Gallo_.] West-South-West from _Gorgona_ lies the round Island _Del Gallo_, about a League in circumference; it is divided by several Rivers, and round about Planted with Trees, on which the _Indians_ dwell as at the River _St. Juan_. [Illustration] CHAP. IV. Peru. [Sidenote: The Description and Division of _Peru_.] _Peru_, so call’d, as some think, from the River _Beru_ afore mention’d, in the Southern part of _America_, was antiently a great and mighty Kingdom, as _Mexico_ in the Northern, and fell under the Power of the _Spaniards_ much after the same manner that the Kingdom of _Mexico_ did, _viz._ through the Dissentions and Differences amongst the People themselves, as in the History of this considerable part of the _New World_ will be related at large hereafter. [Illustration: PERV] [Sidenote: Commodities of the Countrey.] [Sidenote: The Fountain _Puchio_.] [Sidenote: Another strange Fountain.] [Sidenote: A most wonderful Rock.] The Kingdom of the Kings of _Cusco_, which in some sence, and by some Writers upon occasion, is call’d _The Kingdom of Peru_, was extended by the last _Inca_ or King, _Huayna Capac_, from North to South above a thousand Leagues together, comprehending not only a great part of the Province of _Chile_ towards the South, but also the new Kingdom of _Granada_, and divers other Provinces to the North; but _Peru_, properly so call’d, containeth little more than half so much, _viz._ six hundred Leagues in length, and about fifty or threescore in breadth, except onely in some places, as in the Countrey of _Chacopoyas_, where ’tis thought it may be a hundred Leagues from the _Andes_ to the South Sea: It lieth between the first and fifth Degrees of Southern Latitude, and is bounded on the East and North-East with that vast Ridge of Mountains which they call the _Andes_; on the West it is wash’d with _Mare del Zur_; on the North it hath the Countrey of _Popayan_; and on the South, _Chile_: It is commonly divided into three parts, which they call _The Plains_, _The Hill-Countrey_, and _The Andes_; the _Plains_ are that part of the Countrey which lie along upon the Sea-Coast, being for the most part a meer Level without any Hills at all. The _Sierra_, as they call it, or _Hill-Countrey_, is that part of _Peru_ which is partly mountainous and partly plain, fertile and well inhabited in both. The _Andes_ are so high, rocky, and inaccessible, that they are scarce inhabited at all but by Salvages, save onely upon the skirts of them. The _Plains_ from the Sea-shore to the _Hill-Countrey_, are for the most part about ten Leagues over or broad, upon which it scarce raineth all the year long. The _Hill-Countrey_ is commonly twenty Leagues in breadth where narrowest; and from _September_ to _April_ hath Rain, the rest of the Year generally being fair Weather; but on the _Andes_, which take up all the rest of the Countrey of _Peru_, it raineth almost continually all the year long. In the _Hill-Countrey_ their Summer begins in _April_, as is said, and ends in _September_; but in the _Plains_ it begins in _October_, and ends in _May_; so that in the space of a day a Man may feel both Summer and Winter; be scorch’d with excessive Heat in the Morning, and yet well nipt with Cold before Night. The _Andes_ generally are cover’d with thick Woods and wild Forrests. The _Hill-Countrey_ is for a great space naked and open; the _Plains_ in many places sandy and dry, and would be much more scorch’d with Heat than they are, but for the neighborhood of the Sea, which affords them many cooling Gales from the South and South-West Winds, whose property, although it be natural in other parts to be tempestuous, to bring Rain and foul Weather, yet here there is nothing but Serenity and fair Sun-shine days all the year long, although these Winds blow almost without ceasing upon the Countrey, and no other at any time, whereas the _Sierra_, or _Hill-Countreys_ have Wind from every Coast, and such as bringeth all sorts of Weather with it, Rain, Hail, Frost, Snow, great claps of Thunder, _&c._ The Countrey affordeth not so much Cattel of the breed of _Europe_ as some other Provinces of _America_; but in stead of Kine and Sheep, the Woods and Pastures are replenish’d with multitudes of the _Vicugnes_ and _Pacos_, which are of no less Profit and Service. The _Pacos_ here are said to be as big as some young Heifers of two years old, bearing a Fleece like Sheep, and their Flesh no less pleasant than the Mutton of _Europe_. But the great Wealth of this Countrey lies out of sight in the bowels of the Earth, _viz._ in those rich and (as they may seem) inexhaustible Mines both of Gold and Silver, which, as ’tis well known, the Countrey of _Peru_ affordeth more than any other Province of _America_ besides. The _Sierra_ opens into large Valleys, amongst the chiefest whereof are _Xauxa_, _Andaguailas_, and _Yucay_, all of them well inhabited and fruitful. Below _Cusco_ the Mountains _Andes_ and those of _Sierra_ run a greater distance than elsewhere one from the other, leaving the great Plain _Callao_ in the middle. Moreover, several sandy Wilds, without Water, Herbs, Trees, or any living Creature, except Birds, extend from _Tumbez_ to _Taparaca_. From the Valleys flow several Rivers into the Southern Ocean. On the Mountain _Pira_ is a Fountain call’d _Puchio_, which springs in the Night, but is quite dry in the Day-time. Also near the chief City _Quito_ in the Valley _Chilo_, is a Fountain whose Waters boyl faster or slower according as any one speaks softer or louder; and when not a word is spoken, it stirs not at all. If any thing exceed this for strangeness, it is a Rock in the Province _Concuchos_, which is all compos’d of black and white Stones, which are so neatly plac’d by Nature, as if Art had done a Master-piece, in the exact placing of them one between another: but the chiefest thing belonging to it worthy of admiration, is a wonderful power either to heal or hurt; for if the black Stones in this Rock be touch’d by any, they cause immediate Death; whenas the white ones cure all manner of Sicknesses, and being digg’d out, leave a Seed behind them, out of which grow new Stones to fill up the empty place. [Illustration] _Iuca Garcilasso_, Extracted from the _Peruvian_ Kings, tells us concerning Plants, That he saw a Raddish which a Man with both Arms could scarce embrace, and that under the shade of their Leaves, Horses might stand. But of all the _Peruan_ Fruit the _Cocoa_ is the crown, which grows on Trees of a Fathom long in hot and moist Grounds of the Valleys between _Andes_ and _Sierra_; from whence it is carried to the Sea-Coast in long Baskets by Companies of three or four thousand at a time on the Backs of the Sheep _Pacos_. Before the _Spaniards_ coming hither none might chew _Cocoa_ without the Governor’s leave: A handful thereof chew’d and suck’d in the Mouth, enables a Man to travel two days without any other Sustenance, and mix’d with burnt Bones or Chalk, it is accounted an excellent Dish; there is such extraordinary plenty of them, that the Inhabitants spend yearly 90000 Baskets of the Leaves in Pottage. The _Peruans_ also esteem _Mamayes_, a Fruit which grows round, not unlike a Peach, with two Stones, hard Rinds, and a well-rellish’d Pulp within, which dipt in Sugar is a great Dainty; they grow for the most part in the Islands. The _Guaiyavas_ bears a wholsom and delicious Fruit like a large Plumb. The _Palto_, a Tree with many Boughs, bears a Fruit resembling a Pear, having a hard Rind, and within the Pulp a great Stone. The Fruit which grows on the _Annona_ hath outwardly the same shape, but white within, and hath many black Kernels, which taste very deliciously. The Fruit _Andas_, so call’d from the desolate _Peruan_ Mountains on which they grow, resemble the fore-mention’d _Cocoa_, but differ from the _East-Indian_, because they are full of hard shell’d Almonds, the like whereof grows on the Tree _Cachapoyas_, which are not inferior to any _European_ Fruits that grow on Trees; in that part of _Peru_ which hath its Name from that Fruit is the best sort, being exceedingly devour’d by Monkies, who plucking the _Cachapoya_ Almonds from their Stalks, throw them on the Ground to break their prickly Shells, that so they may eat the Kernels without hurt. The _Mille_-Tree, being a sort of Grapes, furnishes with Wine. But the greatest benefit the Inhabitants receive is by their Sheep _Pacos_ and _Moromoros_, which carry great Loads, and feed on what they find by the Way; their Flesh is good and wholsom, and being either Smoak’d or Salted, keeps good a considerable time; their Wool dress’d affords _Cumbi_, of which they make fine Table-clothes and Tapestry, which on both sides is alike. The chiefest Weavers liv’d formerly at _Copachica_ near the great Lake _Titicacu_: They Dye their Wool with the Juice of boyl’d Herbs. It seems also strange to consider what Loads the foremention’d Sheep carried, for besides all sorts of Merchandise, they convey’d the Silver from _Potosi_ to _Arica_, a Way of sixty three Leagues; but in former times they brought it as far again to _Arequipa_; and though they carried two thousand Bars at a time, amounting to above thirty thousand _Ducats_, yet they had no other Guard but a few Herdsmen, who driving them slept with them in the Nights under the bare Skie, yet lost none of their Riches, but when the bald Sheep call’d _Moromoros_, being wearied with their Loads, standing still, stretch’d out their Necks, and looking on their Drivers, on a sudden ran up into the Mountains, by which means the Silver was oft-times lost, if they were not suddenly shot. The woolly Sheep _Pacos_ have also strange Tricks, for they often fall down under their Loads, and cannot be got up again, but must be let alone till they rise of themselves. So soon as one of the Sheep hath gotten the Mange (which the _Peruvians_ call _T’ecarache_,) they bury them alive to prevent farther Infection. [Sidenote: The Customs and Habits of the antient Natives.] [Sidenote: Giants antiently in _St. Helena_.] The antient Natives, though differing in Language and Customs, yet went all Apparell’d after the same fashion, the Men cover’d themselves with a Shirt, which came down below their Knees, and over that a Cotton Cloak, the Women wore woollen Coats down to their Ancles: Their Head-Ornaments were different according to an inviolable Compact between the Natives of several Provinces; for some were wrought, some plain, some divers colour’d Caps, with two, three, or no Feathers, according to the Custom of the Place: They were generally of a middle Stature; but those that were near the _Equinoctial Line_ lesser. Their Histories make mention also of Gyants, who formerly inhabited the Promontory _St. Helena_, were each four times bigger than an ordinary Man, and fed not onely on the greatest Sea-Monsters, but devour’d each of them thirty _Peruvians_ at a Meal. The Stone Images of these Gyants are at this day to be seen not far from _Puerto Viejo_. They likewise kept for a longtime Annual Feast-Days, on which they lamented the loss of the Gyants, which (as they say) was as followeth: A Youth glittering in glory like the Sun descended from Heaven, and breath’d Fire, which rending the Rocks so terrifi’d the Giants, that they fled into a deep Cave, where they were all kill’d. [Sidenote: _Helvius_ finds the Bones of the Giants.] _Cornelius Whitefleet_ relates, That _Helvius_, Governor of _Puerto Viejo_ being stirr’d up by the Report of the fore-mention’d Images, caus’d all the Graves to be broke open, in some of which he found Bones, which they suppos’d to be Whale-Bones, had not the Sculls manifested the contrary. [Sidenote: The original of the Kingdom of _Peru_.] [Sidenote: The original of the _Ingas_.] Concerning the original of the Kingdom of _Peru_ the Natives give this Account of it: That the most antient Inhabitants flock’d together like wild Beasts, without constant Abodes, Customs, Laws, or Governors, which salvageness is still retain’d in many Parts, amongst the _Brasilians_, _Chunches_, _Chiruguanes_, _Yscayungus_, _Piloconens_, most of the _Floridans_, _Chinchemecos_, and others, which degenerate from all Humanity. In time when some kind of Government began to be observ’d, it was rather Popular than Monarchical; yet generally those that were most powerful, valiant and subtile, bore the greatest sway: Amongst whom the first that five Ages since Commanded over the Inhabitants of the Valley _Cusco_, was _Ingaroca_, a subtile and politick Person, who built the Fort _Pucora_, Eastward near the Foot of the Mountain _Andes_, that so he might bridle the People which inhabited in those Parts between the Rivers, Moors, and Lakes, where the remainders of the Fort are to be seen at this day: Moreover, he conquer’d all the Countrey along the Southern Ocean towards the North and South, giving out that he was extracted from one of the seven _Ingas_ (by which Name the _Peruan_ Kings have been styl’d ever since) which came out of the Cave _Pacaritambo_, where they were preserv’d against the Deluge (of which the _Heathens_ in _America_ had long since an obscure knowledge,) and restor’d the drowned Families; wherefore every one not onely obey’d, but paid him Tribute, and bound themselves to receive of him the true Religion, which they desir’d he would teach them, as none knowing the same better than he, whom they look’d upon as Extracted from the _Ingas_. Amongst these _Ingas_ the chiefest was said to be _Mangocapa_, who, according to their fabulous Tradition, climb’d through the Window _Tambo_ out of the Cave _Pacaritambo_, and produc’d two Families, _viz._ _Hunan Cusco_, and _Urin Cusco_; from the first whereof _Ingaroca_ affirm’d himself Descended, and having first made himself Master of all the Countreys about _Cusco_, rais’d the Family _Vicaquiquirao_, and laid out a great part of his Revenues upon Gold and Silver Utensils, and Ornaments for his Person and House, which he in his last Will charg’d that none of his Successors should inherit, nor dwell in his Palace, but that every one should build a new Habitation for themselves: He also erected divers Golden Idols. [Sidenote: _Yaguarguoqu_ the second _Inga_.] [Sidenote: _Viracocha Inga_ his great Riches.] Some Authors begin this _Dynastie_ of the Kings of _Peru_ in a very different manner, making _Mango Capa_ to be the first thereof, and to have been Succeeded by his Son _Chincaroca_, which cannot but be the same with this _Ingaroca_ here mention’d. _Yaguarguoqu_ (that is, _Crier of Blood_, because on a time being Commander, and taken Prisoner, out of vexation and exceeding grief he cried _Blood_). Succeeding him after his Death, rais’d the Family _Aocaillipanaca_, and was Succeeded by his eldest Son, the wealthy _Viracocha Inga_, of whom, when the _Spaniards_ conquer’d _Peru_, went a Report, that great Riches lay buried in the Earth with him; wherefore _Gonzalus Pizarrus_ tortur’d the Natives after an inhumane manner, to know of them where the Grave of the said _Inga_ was; at last obtaining his Desire, he digg’d for the Body, which he found so well Embalm’d, that it seem’d to live, but no Gold with it; wherefore _Pizarrus_ deceiv’d in his expectation, burnt the Corps; the Ashes whereof the _Indians_ gathering in Urns, worshipp’d, though when he liv’d the Vulgar were much incens’d at him, for taking upon him the Name of _Viracocha_, who was their supream God and Creator of all things; but he pacifi’d them, saying, That _Viracocha_ appearing to him in a Dream, had commanded him to take that Name upon him. [Sidenote: _Yupangui_’s Policy to gain an Opinion amongst the People.] [Sidenote: Gross superstition.] The fourth _Inga_, call’d _Pachacuto Yupangui_ succeeded in the Throne after the Death of his eldest Brother, who was slain in a Field-Battel against the _Changas_, inhabiting the Valley _Andaguailas_, where the _Peruan_ Army was utterly defeated, few of them onely escaping by flight; among whom was _Yupangui_, who perswaded the rest to a subtile Design, by alledging, That the Almighty Creator, angry at their Destruction, had reveal’d many Secrets to him, _viz._ That the Creator in Heaven was call’d _Viracocha Pachayachachie_; That he resented it very ill; That whereas he formerly made Heaven, Sun, Moon, Stars, and Men, none worshipp’d him for it, but in stead of him they reverenc’d the Sun, Thunder, and the Earth, who had their Beings from him; That he would shew his Power against the victorious _Changas_ by an unexpected Assistance of an invisible Army. This being believ’d of every one, stirr’d up the _Peruans_ far and near, insomuch that in a short time a vast Army being rais’d, presented themselves to _Yupangui_, who made good use thereof; and also told them that _Viracocha_ had decreed in Heaven, that he _Yupangui_ should be his Vicegerent on Earth; which the Army believing, set the _Peruan_ Crown which they had taken from his Father, on his Head: Thus promoted, he march’d against the _Changas_, whom in a bloody Battel he Conquer’d, and brought them all under his Obedience: Moreover, he made his Soldiers believe, that they were not the Conquerors, but invisible Men, whom _Viracocha_ had sent, and who could be seen by none but himself; and that after the Battel they were turn’d into Stones, which they must seek for. Whereupon they gathering a great number of Stones on the Mountains, _Yupangui_ call’d them _Pururancas_, and order’d that they should be worshipp’d, and carried with them into the Field whensoe’re they fought another Battel, hoping thereby to stir up his Soldiers to be couragious, who firmly believ’d, that with the visible Stones walk’d invisible Heroes that would certainly assist them. This Imagination wrought so much, that _Yupangui_’s Army assur’d of Victory with the help of the Stones, went on undauntedly on all Designs, insomuch that being fear’d by all the adjacent People, he forc’d them all to submission. This _Yupangui_ rais’d the Family _Yuaupococa_, and plac’d a great Golden Image call’d _Indyllapa_ on a Golden Chariot, which since was religiously worshipp’d, and afterwards carried to _Caxamalca_, for a Ransom of the _Peruvian_ King _Attabaliba_, whom the _Spanish_ General _Pizarrus_ kept Prisoner, and at last Strangled. The Councellor _Polus_ opening _Yupangui_’s Grave, found the Body Embalm’d, and no way defaced, but the Eyes cover’d with thin Golden Plates, and on his Head appear’d the Scar of a Stone which had been thrown at him; and though the Body had lain eighty years in the Grave, yet it seem’d rather living than dead, being onely a little grey. This Corps, as also several other _Inga_’s, the Marquess _Camette_ brought from _Cusco_ to _Lima_, so to prevent the _Peruvians_ worshipping of them. [Sidenote: The Greatness and Riches of _Guayacava_.] _Yupangui_ after his Decease was succeeded by _Sopa Inga_, and he by his Son of the same Name, who rais’d the Family _Ayoac Aillo_: The last (for nothing worthy of memory was done by either of them,) was succeeded by _Guaynacava_, a wealthy and valiant young Man, who was no sooner setled on the Throne, but he manag’d all things with great prudence, maintain’d War with several People, and conquer’d the Kingdom of _Quito_, four hundred Leagues beyond _Cusco_, whither after his Death his Body was carried, and buried in the famous Temple of the Sun, but his Entrails were buried in _Quito_ not without many bloody Offerings, thousands of his Servants Sacrificing themselves at his Grave willingly, that so they might serve their Prince in the other World. The invaluable Treasures which he left behind him were carefully hid by the _Peruvians_ till the _Spaniards_ conquer’d that Countrey: The pav’d Ways, magnificent Buildings, and strong Castles, testifie as yet the Power of this _Inga_; wherefore in his life-time he was honor’d as a God. His Mother _Mamaoclo_ liv’d to see above three hundred of her Children’s Children, all Extracted from her Son _Guaynacava_. [Sidenote: War between _Huascar_ and his Brother _Attabaliba_.] [Sidenote: _Huascar_ burnt alive.] The chief of the Family _Tanebamba_ were _Huascar_ and _Attabaliba_, Sons to _Guaynacava_, (both by the _Coya_, or lawful Queen, however some have deliver’d to the contrary) who falling at variance betwixt themselves, resolv’d to decide the Quarrel by a Field-Battel, in which _Attabaliba_, being the youngest, was Conqueror. This Civil War was at the heighth when the _Spaniards_ invaded _Peru_, which they could never have conquer’d, had not the Realm been so divided. During _Attabaliba_’s Imprisonment by _Pizarrus_, his two Generals, _Quizaniz_ and _Chilicuchima_, took the _Inga Huascar_ (formerly call’d _Tito Cusi Gualpa_, _Attabaliba_’s Brother) in _Cusco_, and carrying him to the Valley _Sacsahuana_, burnt him alive. It is set down as remarkable, that _Huascar_ after his being vanquish’d, made great Offerings to _Viracocha_, thereby to gain his assistance in his extremity against _Attabaliba_; when he was inform’d, that a strange People which came from a remote Place over the Seas, had defeated _Attabaliba_’s Army, and taken him Prisoner: From which News _Huascar_ taking courage, call’d the _Spaniards_ _Viracochas_, and judg’d that they were come from Heaven to his Delivery, and the more, because his Brother had spilt so much Blood already: for _Attabaliba_ had not onely slain the Prince _Atoco_, which led _Huascar_’s Army, with three thousand two hundred Men, and drank out of _Atoco_’s Skull tipt with Gold, but had also pluck’d out the Harts of above a thousand Children, which the _Cannarites_ sent with Palm-Boughs to him, to desire Peace. [Sidenote: _Mango Inga_ Settles in the Mountain _Vilcabamba_.] After _Attabaliba_’s and _Huascar_’s Decease, _Mango Inga_ their Brother drove all the _Spaniards_ out of _Cusco_, whither they not long after coming with new Forces, necessitated _Mango_, not without the loss of many Men, to take his flight up into the Mountain _Vilcabamba_, where he Setling, his Successors Reign to this day, secur’d from any Invasion by the natural strength of the Place. But the _Inga Saritopa_ coming from the fore-mention’d Mountain, submitted himself to the _Spaniards_, who allow’d him the Valley _Yucay_ to dwell peaceably in; but the rest of the Family of the _Inga_’s that fell into the Hands of the _Spaniards_, were all of them kill’d in _Cusco_, not without great grief of the old Inhabitants, to see so antient and noble a Family, by which they had been Govern’d in great State for three hundred years together, put to death by common Executioners. [Sidenote: _Cusco_ the Residence of the _Peruvian_ Kings.] The City _Cusco_, which was the Royal Seat of all the _Peruvian_ Kings, was made more splendid than ever before, by _Guayanacava_, of whom _Augustine de Tarrate_, describing his Magnificence, relates, That when his Queen was Deliver’d of a Son, who was to succeed in the Throne, _Guayanacava_ kept a great Feast for twenty days together, and on that day when the Child was to be Nam’d, a Golden Chain, each Link of which was as big as a Hand, and contain’d in all seven hundred Foot in length, was carried by twenty _Peruvians_ to the Temple. [Sidenote: The manner of the Succession of their Kings.] The Succession of the _Inga_’s was after this manner: The _Inga_’s keeping many Concubines had many Children by them, none of which could lay claim to the _Peruvian_ Crown, but onely the Son begotten on the _Coya_, or _Queen_, being generally the Kings own Sister, (whom they accounted lawful for them to Marry, as in antient times did the _Egyptian_ Kings) Inherited the Realm, unless the _Inga_ had a lawful Brother, who Inherited before the Son, though born of a _Coya_; or if the said Brother had a Son, he obtain’d the deceased Uncles Crown before him, who in apparence was the elder Heir. The same Succession was also observ’d by other Governors, which the _Peruvians_ call _Curaca_’s. [Sidenote: Their Burials and disposal of their Treasure.] The Burials of their Kings were perform’d with great solemnity; and the Treasures which they left behind were bestow’d in building of magnificent _Guaha_’s, which were Temples or religious Houses, where a kind of solemn Worship was to be perform’d, to celebrate the Memory of the Deceased. Some part of the Treasure was also distributed amongst the _Inga_’s Servants; but the Successor inherited not the least Mite of what his Predecessor had gotten, but was forc’d, according to an antient Law, to build himself a new Palace, and purchas’d anew every thing else belonging to it. [Sidenote: Their Crown.] Their Crown or Diadem was onely a fine red woollen Coif with a Tassel, that hung down over their Foreheads, which other meaner Princes wore hanging on their right Ear. [Sidenote: Their Coronations.] Their Coronations were also kept in great Pomp and State, the Nobility and Priests coming from all parts of the Countrey to _Cusco_, besides an innumerable multitude of common People. The Noblemens Presents to the _Inga_’s consisted chiefly of Gold and Silver Vessels, fine Cloth call’d _Cumbi_, all sorts of Sea-shells, and stately Plumes of Feathers of inestimable value. Thousands of Sheep differing in colour serv’d for Offerings: moreover, the Chief Priest sacrific’d a Child before the Image of _Viracocha_, on whom with great Reverence he cry’d, _O great God_ Viracocha, _we Offer you this Child, that you may keep our Realm in Peace, aid us in time of War, prosper our_ Inga _in all his Undertakings, make him more powerful and greater than any of his Predecessors, and grant him wisdom to Govern this vast Countrey_. [Sidenote: Their exact Form of Government.] No People in the World can be more respective, and shew greater Reverence to their Kings, than the _Peruvians_: for there were never any heard of in this Countrey that ever Rebell’d against their Prince; the reason of which was chiefly, because they always Govern’d with great Justice and Mildness, placing Governors over the respective Countreys and Provinces, according to their several Divisions, greater or lesser, with subordinate Power one under another, so that they Rul’d with great strictness, punishing with Death both Drunkenness and Theft. Moreover, the _Ingas_ observ’d a prudent way in Government, _viz._ They kept their Subjects continually employ’d: The ordinary sort of Persons of subdu’d Provinces were sent to remote Countreys, and the Governors thereof kept at the Court in _Cusco_; and Princes Descended of the Royal Blood sent in their Places to Govern the new gotten Dominions: they divided the Inhabitants into Companies, plac’d one to Command over ten, another over a hundred, and a greater Officer over a thousand, and at last a _Prefect_ or Major-General, over ten thousand; every one of which Officers were to bring in an Account every Week to the supream Governor, who was always of the _Inga_’s Family, what Men dy’d of their number, or how many were born, a present Estimate of every ones Stock, in Cattel or otherwise, and all remarkable Transactions that hapned. On the high Feast-day they were all to appear at Court, and to bring in the Revenues gather’d out of their Substitute Countreys. The main Division of the Countrey was into four grand Provinces, call’d _Tahucantinsuyos_, according to the four Ways that went from _Cusco_ through the whole Realm, _viz._ _Chinchasuyo_ towards the North, _Coclasuyo_ towards the South, _Andesuyo_ towards the East, and _Condesuyo_ towards the West. The Collectors were divided into _Hanansayos_, Upper-Collectors, and _Urinsayos_, or Under-Collectors. The _Quipocomayos_, or Accomptants, could cast up exactly with Buttons, not onely what every Province, but also what each Man was to pay, and that according to the ability of the Countrey and Person. [Sidenote: Their stately Structures.] Many were the stately Temples, invincible Castles, magnificent Palaces, and other wonderful Structures built by the _Ingas_, the chiefest whereof stood in _Cusco_, _Tiaguanaco_, and _Tambo_; the Builders whereof were sent for by turns out of the adjacent Countreys, from which they brought exceeding great Stones, most of them thirty eight Foot long, eighteen broad, and six thick, which were so neatly joyn’d together with Mortar or Iron-work, that a whole Edifice seem’d to be one entire Stone. Their Bridges that led cross the Rivers were made of Flags and Rushes, fastned to each Shore with great Ropes. The like Bridge lay cross the deep Mouth of the Lake _Chicuito_, on which great Bundles of the Rushes _Toto_ being ty’d together, and cover’d with Straw, so strengthen’d the Bridge, that great Loads were safely carried over the same. [Sidenote: The great Riches of the _Ingas_.] No Prince ever possess’d so much Riches and Splendor as an _Inga_ of _Peru_, each Countrey presenting him with what was most esteem’d amongst them; the _Chiches_ bringing Sweet-woods; the _Lucanas_, strong Sedan-Carriers; the _Chumbibilcas_, brave Dancers; and so accordingly every Countrey provided him with what they best esteem’d, besides the usual Tributes which they paid. Those which digg’d the Gold and Silver out of the Mines, had Meat, Drink, and Clothing from the _Inga_, though at other times he enjoy’d the Labors of his Subjects for nothing. [Sidenote: Their several sorts of Tribute from conquer’d Countreys.] When at any time he conquer’d a Countrey by force of Arms, he made them pay from three several sorts of Tribute; the first was bestow’d in religious Offices. Each _Guaca_ or Chappel receiv’d also a Revenue from the late conquer’d Countreys, the Fruit of which serv’d for Offerings to their chief God _Pachayachachu_, the Sun, their Thunderer _Chuquilla_, and to the Souls of the Deceased, and for Food for the Priests. The Religion through the whole Realm agreed with that which was observ’d in _Cusco_. But the second Tribute fell to the _Inga_’s Family, or Relation and Soldiers. Those who Till’d the _Inga_’s Ground, Sung before him in Festival Clothes. That which could not be spent in the Court was laid up in Store-houses for ten years together, against a scarcity should happen. Aged People, Widows, and such as were decrepid, paid no Tribute. The third part was for the Poor, which had every Year a piece of Ground allow’d them to make use of as they pleas’d. In unfruitful Years they receiv’d an Allowance out of the Store-houses before mention’d. [Sidenote: Their Provision for the Poor.] So likewise the Pasture, Meadows, and Arable Land was order’d for three several Uses, one third for religious Uses, a second for the _Inga_’s, and the last for the Poor. The Sheep being shorn on a certain Day, yielded the Poor a certain quantity of Wooll to make them Clothes. As soon as any Beast grew Mangy (which the _Peruvians_ call’d _Carache_) they burnt them alive, so to prevent the spreading of it farther. Those that belong’d to the _Inga_’s Family, wore all Clothes made of the finest Wooll, and the coursest, call’d _Tabasca_, was distributed among the Vulgar. [Sidenote: Their Industry.] Besides this good Order of Government, it is wonderful to observe the _Peruvians_ manner of Living, each learning from their Infancy not onely a Trade, but all things which they accounted necessary in House-keeping, as Weaving, Tilling of Land, building of Houses, and making of Tools requisite for both; so that they never made use of one another on any Account. Moreover, Master Artists, who work’d more for Pleasure than Gain, dwelt apart, being Silver-smiths, Painters, Musicians, and Dancers. [Sidenote: Their Habits.] Their Habits were heretofore of one fashion through the whole Realm, onely the Covering of their Heads were several, by which the People of one Countrey were distinguish’d from the other, according to an inviolable Law made many Ages since; some therefore wore thin Caps, others broad Pleits, others little Hats, others round Bonnets, others woven Caps, and the like. [Sidenote: Their Post-Stages.] Their Post-Stages, call’d _Chasquis_, were little Houses, each standing a League and a half from one another, wherein dwelt certain Officers, who with extraordinary speed convey’d the _Inga_’s Letters from one _Chasquis_ to the other; after which manner in two days time they convey’d a Letter a hundred Leagues. But since the _Spaniards_ conquer’d this Countrey, that Convenience was lost, till the tenth _Peruvian_ Vice-Roy _Martin Enriques_ re-establish’d the same; for he allow’d a Sallary to those Posts, that they might with speed convey all Letters and Packets from one to the other, being distant, according to his Establishment, four Leagues. [Sidenote: Their severe Laws against Malefactors.] Lastly, the _Ingas_ maintain’d strict Laws in criminal Affairs; for as they did not neglect to encourage noble Atchievements (for whoe’re had done a valiant Act in the Wars, was made Governor of a Countrey, or had a certain quantity of Land given him, or Married one of the _Inga_’s Family;) so likewise they severely punish’d all Malefactors: for Murderers, Thieves, and Adulterers suffer’d Death without Mercy; yet they allow’d store of Concubines, and it was free for any one to Lie with his Neighbor’s Concubine, but Death to have to do with any Man’s lawful Wife, who were serv’d by the Concubines. [Sidenote: Their Marriages.] When a Bridegroom Betrothed himself to his Bride, he gave her (and put them on himself) a pair of Shoes call’d _Ajota_, not unlike those of a grey Fryer, which were lin’d with Cotton if she were a Maid, but with Leaves if a Widow, who nevertheless being generally younger than the Man, was to Mourn a whole year in Black for her deceased Husband; till the expiration of which time she was not to Marry another. Governors of Provinces and other Officers of State receiv’d their Wives from the _Ingas_, who enquiring out the beautifullest and most accomplish’d Virgins they could hear of, put the _Ajota_ on their Feet, and gave them to such Persons as they most fancied; after which if they committed Adultery they were certainly put to death. The Marrying of Brothers and Sisters was also forbid, till the Inga _Topa Yupangui_, Father to _Guaynacava_ broke that Law, by Marrying his own Sister _Mamoello_, and made an Order that the _Ingas_ onely should have that liberty; nay, when he lay on his Death-bed, he strictly charg’d his Son _Guaynacava_ to take his own Sister _Goya Cuissilmay_ to Wife; and this incestuous Marriage produc’d _Huascar_ and _Attabaliba_, (though some say _Attabaliba_ was begotten on a Concubine) in whose time the _Peruvian_ Kingdom went to ruine. _Guaynacava_ also permitted the common People to Marry their Sisters of the Fathers side, but not of the Mothers. [Sidenote: Their manner of living.] The _Peruvian_ Houses were antiently for the most part light and small; and for their Table they made but little preparation, satisfying themselves with a little Beer made of Rice, Bread bak’d of _Maiz_, dry’d Flesh, Fish, and Roots. In their Wars they us’d Slings, Darts, Arrows, Lances, Pikes, Halberds, Pole-Axes, and Shields. [Sidenote: Their Funerals.] Their Funerals were also solemnly kept, especially those of Persons of Quality, the Corps was carried out on a brave Chair, from which he was put into the Ground, with two of his Concubines whom he best affected, and also three Servants, Gold and Silver Vessels, _Maiz_, and the Liquor _Chica_, which the nearest Relation spurted into his Mouth through a Cane; all which they did that the Deceased might make use thereof in the other World. But before the Funeral the Relations Mourn’d over the Corps several days, and after the Body was Interr’d, they plac’d the Picture of the Deceased upon the Grave: but the meaner sort of People had the Tools belonging to their Trade; and Soldiers their Arms plac’d on the same. [Sidenote: Their Religion.] In their Religion they had various Fancies; their prime God _Viracocha_ bore several Denominations, and amongst others he was call’d _Pacachame_, or _Pachayachachick_, by which he was signifi’d to be the Creator of Heaven and Earth; as also _Usapu_, that is, _Wonderful_. In honor to this _Pacachama_ stood formerly a magnificent Temple about four Leagues from _Lima_, where the Ruines still manifest its former glory, it being the Place where the Devil answer’d the Priests, who stood with their Backs towards the Image of _Pacochame_, bowing their Heads to the Ground, and showing many antick Tricks. The second Temple stood near _Cusco_, in which the _Inga_’s had plac’d the Images of all the Gods and Goddesses that were worshipp’d in _Peru_; and before each Image stood an Altar: the chiefest of them, call’d _Puachao_, consisting of massie Gold, was Dedicated to the Sun, on whose Forehead the Sun was Engraven on a Plate, which afterwards fell into the Hands of the _Spanish_ Captain _Mancius Sierra de Lequizamo_; but because he lost the same one Night at Gaming, this Proverb was rais’d upon it, _Lequizamo lost the Sun before it rose_, because he got the Plate on which the Sun was Engraven in the Afternoon, and lost the same in the Night: The Temple it self, built of great Stones, curiously joyn’d together in _Mosaick_ Work, and within link’d with Golden Plates of a Finger thick, stood full of Golden Chappels and Altars; round about it were several Galleries, into which the Priests and Priestesses Chambers open’d. Near the River _Ticiquaque_ a third Temple, Consecrated to the Sun. [Illustration] [Sidenote: The various Idolatry of the _Peruvians_.] This kind of Idolatry was common to the _Peruvians_, with several other Nations of the antient _Heathens_, as hath been before observ’d, which made them mock at the _Spaniards_ when they told them of a Crucifi’d _Saviour_, saying they had a splendid God, who appear’d to them in glory every Morning. In the third Temple near the River _Taciquaque_ in _Peru_, which exceeded the other two, they worshipp’d Thunder by the Name of _Chuquilla_, _Catuilla_, and _Intillapa_, which the _Peruvians_ believ’d to be a Man that Commanded the Air, and who being Arm’d with a Club and Sling, throws down Rain, Hail, and Snow from the Clouds, and shooting Bullets through the lower Region, causes Thunder and Lightning: They worshipp’d him after the same manner as they did _Viracocha_ and the Sun, with holding up of a thing like a Glove, and sometimes Offering, especially in _Cusco_, living Children: Also they ador’d the Earth of which they made the Goddess _Bathamama_; also _Mamacocha_, the God of the Sea. The Rainbowe, which the _Ingas_ carried between two Serpents for their Arms, was also religiously worshipp’d. Amongst the Stars they imagin’d _Colca_, by us call’d _Aries_, or the _Ram_, as chief; yet held several others of peculiar Denomination, in veneration, of which they crav’d such things as they wanted. The Shepherds ador’d the Star _Nereuchilla_ or _Capricorn_, whom they judge to Rule over the Beasts. Others worshipp’d _Machacuay_ which the _European_ Astronomers call the _Serpent_, as commanding Serpents and Dragons, that they might receive no hurt from them. Tygers, Lyons, and Bears, were Rul’d by the Star _Chuquichinchag_; wherefore those who would walk free from those ravenous Beasts, lifted up folded Hands to the Constellations representing the same. They believ’d that there was no Creature living on Earth, whole Likeness the Heavens could not afford; and that those which were on Earth were under the influence of those in Heaven: from hence proceeded the Names of the Stars _Chacana_, _Topatatca_, _Mamana_, _Mirma_, and others. They likewise attributed a kind of Divinity to Fountains, Rivers, Rocks, Mountains, some kinds of Herbs, Roots, and especially the _Papas_, of a strange shape, and had a veneration for all manner of Creatures that were of an unusual form. When they travel’d they strew’d Shoes, Plumes of Feathers, and _Cocoa_ in all cross Ways and tops of Hills, by them call’d _Apachitas_; and if they want the fore-mention’d things, then they throw a Stone for an Offering, from whence it proceeds, that in all cross Ways, and on the tops of Hills, lie heaps of Stones, which are accounted holy. The like fond veneration of Stones the _Saracens_ are said antiently to have had, upon a Tradition, That _Abraham_ had enjoy’d _Agar_ upon a Stone, and that according to _Euthymius_ and _Libanius_, he ty’d his Cammel to a Stone when he went to Offer his Son _Isaac_. The Images of their deceased _Ingas_, which they call’d _Guaoiqui_, were had in great honor, and carried with them to the Wars, and up and down in Processionings, and call’d upon for fruitful Seasons. [Sidenote: The _Peruvians_ believ’d the Immortality of the Soul.] The Immortality of the Soul, the giving of Punishments to the Wicked, and of Rewards to those that do well, was generally believ’d amongst the _Peruvians_, but not the Resurrection of the Dead. Many suffer’d themselves to be buried with their Friends, that they might accompany them to the other World. When the Inga _Guaynacava_ was buried, above a thousand of his Courtiers Sung several Songs, kept a great Feast, and went with great joy to be buried with him, that so they might serve their King on the other side of the Mountains. They Offer’d likewise a great number of Children, and with their Blood cross’d their Faces from one Ear to another: But this barbarous Offering was never us’d but at the Death of prime Persons of Quality; for the meaner sort of People set onely Meat on the Graves, and gave the Dead two Sutes of Apparel, put Money in their Mouthes and Hands; for they believ’d that the Souls ranging up and down from place to place, suffer’d many inconveniences. [Sidenote: Their Oracle.] [Sidenote: Their Nunneries.] [Sidenote: Their Offerings.] The _Peruvian_ Images consisted generally of Gold, Silver, Stone, or Wood, all of them strangely deform’d: Some of them were said to give Responces like the Oracle at _Delphos_ and _Dodona_, chiefly in the Temple _Pacachama_, whose greatness is sufficiently manifest by the Ruines of its Walls beyond _Lima_, where _Franciscus Pizarrus_ got an invaluable Treasure. Each _Peruvian_ Province had a Temple, besides which, in the Cities, Villages, and Hamlets, were Chappels of Ease, into which the Priests went at Night with their Backs towards the Idol, bended Heads and Bodies; in which posture they requested to know future Events, and were many times answer’d (if we may believe their Reports) in a terrible Voice. The great Temple at _Cusco_, wherein the _Ingas_ had plac’d all the _Peruvian_ Idols, is now turn’d into a _Dominican_ Cloyster. In each Province of _Peru_ was also a Nunnery (if we may so term it) or Habitation of devoted Virgins, call’d _Allaguau_, i.e. _A House of the Choicest_, over which Was plac’d a Governor nam’d _Appopanaca_, to whom none durst deny their Daughters; some of which were styl’d _Wives of the Sun_, and others Servant-Maids to the same: The Wives Cloth’d in Embroyder’d Coats, adorn’d the Temple, whilest the Maids kept clean the Walls and Floor. When they attain’d to fourteen Years of Age, some were chosen out from the rest, and oblig’d to perpetual Virginity and solitude of Life in their Chappels; which sacred Obligation if they broke by suffering any to Lie with them, they were buried alive after the manner of the Vestal Virgins, the Ceremony whereof is related by _Plutarch_: Others were oblig’d to make daily Offerings; others to make peculiar Sacrifices for the _Inga_’s Health, and happy Events in War; many also were employ’d in the Court Service to wait upon the _Inga_’s Wife or Concubines; and those being absolv’d from their Vow, were oft-times Married to Courtiers. These Nunneries were Endow’d with great Revenues from the _Chacaras_, or Church-Lands. Their Offerings were (for sometimes they Offer’d to their Idols the highly esteem’d Herb _Cocoa_, _Maiz_, several colour’d Plumes, Sea-Monsters, Gold and Silver Images of Beasts, fine Clothes call’d _Cumbi_, Sweet-wood, and Tallow to burn) either to have success in their Journeys, Trades, or for the preservation of Health, or to obtain a plentiful Harvest. But their usual Offerings were _Cuces_, a sort of Toads, which were eaten by the _Peruvians_. When they were to do any Business of consequence, then Persons of Quality kill’d their Sheep _Pacos_, not without strange observation of the colour and number of them, as also of the time; all which things well consider’d, they cook the Sheep and laid it cross their right Arm, turn’d the Face thereof towards the Sun, and mutter’d several words to themselves according to the colour; for if it was spotted grey, they spoke to _Chuquilla_, or Thunder; if white and short Fleec’d, to the Sun; if well Fleec’d, to _Viracocha_. In _Cusco_ they Offer’d daily a short-fleec’d Sheep to the Sun in this manner: Making a great Fire call’d _Vibbacaronca_, the Priests threw the Sheep and four Baskets of _Cocoa_ into it. Their Sacrifices _Cozocovicca_ and _Sapovicca_, to obtain Conquests, were also very strange: for they gather’d out of _Puna_ (which is a desolate place) several sorts of Brambles and Bushes nam’d _Ganilli_, which being all set on fire, they went about the Fire with round Stones in their Hands, on which were painted Serpents, Lyons, Toads, and Tygers, crying, _Usachum, grant us Conquest_, together with this Prayer, _Destroy, O Creator, the power of our Enemies Gods_; which said, several starv’d Sheep were brought out, which for that reason they call’d _Urca_; whose Hearts having torn out they began their Prayers afresh, saying, _Mighty_ Viracocha, _thus do thou pull out the Hearts of our Enemies_. For the prosperity of the _Ingas_ they kill’d in an open Field black Dogs, by them call’d _Appurucos_, whose Flesh was eaten with many Ceremonies by People appointed for that purpose. They made Offerings also to the Fountains, Rivers, Brooks, and Sea-shells, under pretence that those Shells were Daughters of the Ocean, and the Ocean the Father of Streams and Springs; when they had Sow’n their Fields, their Priests, chose to that Office, went from House to House to gather such Offerings as every one was pleas’d to give; which they laid at the Banks of several Sluces, at the time when the Water began to rise there, thinking by that Oblation to keep them from over-flowing their Lands, and washing away their Seed. In all places where two Rivers joyn’d together they wash’d themselves, having first bedaub’d themselves all over with stamp’d _Maiz_, and afterwards look’d upon themselves as well purg’d from Sin; which power they ascrib’d to their Baths. To strangle Children between four and ten years of Age was never us’d, unless upon the _Inga_’s being sick, or when he receiv’d the Royal Tassel, that from the death of the Children he might receive Health, or Reign prosperously. The fore-mention’d Nuns that were chose to attend on the King’s, were also strangled when the _Inga_ was sick; nay, sometimes a Father would Offer his Son to _Viracocha_, on the Sun-Priest’s suggestion, That by his Son’s death he would recover from his Sickness, Praying to the foremention’d Deity, that they would be pleas’d to save the sick Father, because the Son had with his Death paid for his Fathers. This kind of Cruelty the Devil seem’d to prompt the _Heathens_ to, by making use of _Abraham_’s Example, who prepar’d his Son _Isaac_ for a Sacrifice on Mount _Moria_; and that it was a Practice amongst the antient _Ammonites_ and _Moabites_, and other _Heathens_ (by which even the Children of _Israel_ were apt to be seduc’d) appears from the Scripture it self: the Ceremonies of which bruitish Customs, with the seven Brazen Chambers of _Moloch_, may be seen describ’d by _Rabbi Solomon_. [Sidenote: Their High Feasts.] The high Feast _Capacrayne_, which the _Peruvians_ kept in the first Moneth _Rayme_, agreeing with our _December_, deserves serious observation: for as long as the Feast lasted, no Stranger was suffer’d to Lodge in _Cusco_, whither they all flock’d again after the Feast was over, to receive Cakes made by the _Mamaconas_ (an Order of Nuns) of _Maiz_ and the warm Blood of a white Ram, and were distributed by certain Priests (Extracted from the Royal Family _Iluqui Yupangui_) who carrying them up and down in Golden Dishes, gave every one of a Company one, saying at the delivery of it, _If you do not Reverence the Sun and_ Inga, _this Food will witness against you to your Ruine; but if you worship them, then their Bodies will by this Pledge be united to yours_: after which those that had eaten of the Cakes promis’d Obedience, and thank’d the Sun and _Inga_ for their Food. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Their Manner of Confessions.] [Sidenote: Their Penances.] [Sidenote: The Esteem of their Soothsayers.] At the fore-mention’d _Chasquis_ a course was taken to carry all that desir’d, to every Temple through the whole Kingdom of _Peru_, where the Inhabitants receiv’d them with great Reverence, having before confess’d all their sins to their _Yaburies_, or Father-Confessors, who being chosen to that Office with a great deal of Ceremony, impos’d greater or lesser Penances, according to the sins of the Penitent: those that were suspected to have conceal’d any of their sins, were put to cast Lots, or had the Entrails of the Beasts which they had kill’d to that purpose consulted about them, and thereby were discover’d if they had conceal’d any of their sins; which whenever it hapned, the Priests falling upon the false Penitents, thump’d them with a Stone on their Backs so long, till they had confess’d all their Faults, which the Priest was not to reveal on pain of Death, but to make Expiatory Offerings. The sins about which they were Examin’d, were chiefly Theft, Murder, Adultery, preparing of Poyson, or sleighting their _Inga_ or Gods; for each of which Transgressions they had several kinds of Punishments. When the _Inga_ fell sick, all People in general were forc’d to come and make Confession of their sins; also every one went to his Confessor when he was in trouble, or expected some Misfortune to befall him: The _Inga_ himself Confess’d his sins to none but the Sun, which he desir’d to relate to _Viracocha_, and to beg pardon of him for the same; which done, he bath’d himself in a running Stream, and cry’d, _I have made my sins known to thee, O Sun; do thou, O River, wash away mine Iniquities, and discharge them into the Sea, that they may never be more laid to my charge_: which custom of Bathing, call’d _Opacuna_, was also us’d by all other Penitents. A Father losing his Son by Death, was censur’d for a great Sinner, wherefore he could not be permitted to be Confess’d before he had been whipp’d with Nettles by a certain ill-look’d Officer appointed for that end; after which their Fathers _Ychuris_ enjoyn’d such Penances as they thought fit; some were order’d to last several days; others to pay rich Garments, Silver, Gold, or the like; others receiv’d a certain number of Blows; some were condemn’d to live on the Mountains, excluded from the society of all Men. If their Sorcerers at any time foretold a Fathers Death, then he immediately Sacrifis’d his Son, that with his Death he might buy his own Life. No People were more respected than their Soothsayers, as Men that could discover private Thefts, Accidents that hapned in remote Countreys, and also future Events, and so far their Credit amongst the Vulgar carried them, that they undertook to tell the _Spaniards_ when their Countrey-men should be Conquerors, and when defeated in the War they maintain’d against the _Netherlanders_. There were also cunning Women, who making themselves dead Drunk with _Chica_, with which they mix’d the Herb _Viloa_, and afterwards coming to themselves again, answer’d all the Questions that were proposed to them. [Sidenote: Their monthly Feasts.] The _Peruvians_ kept two sorts of Feasts, the first at certain times, the others on special occasions; the set-Feasts were kept Monethly; on the first Moneth _Rayme_, agreeing with our last Moneth _December_, as aforesaid, they kept the great Feast _Capacrayme_, on which they brought Multitudes of Sheep and Lambs for Burnt-offerings, besides Silver and Gold. Not far from the Fire stood three Carv’d Images of the Sun, and three others representing Thunder; and this was generally the Day of the Installation of the young _Inga_’s, which was after this manner: The chief Priest boring a Hole through his Ear, cover’d the upper part of his Body with the holy Cloth _Guaras_, whilest the inferior Priests whipt him with knotted Cords, and painted his Face with the Blood. During these Ceremonies no Stranger was suffer’d to remain in _Cusco_, but after the Feast was ended they all return’d, and as before, receiv’d Cakes bak’d of _Maiz_ and Blood, as a testimony that they lov’d and honor’d the _Inga_. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Their Harvest Ceremonies.] [Sidenote: Their Feast _Ytri_.] The three Images of the Sun before-mention’d they call’d _Apointi_, _Churiunti_, and _Intiquaoqui_, that is, _Father-Sun_, _Son-Sun_, and _Brother-Sun_. In like manner they nam’d the three Images of Thunder, _Chuquilla_, _Catuilla_, and _Intillapa_; from which _Acosta_ judges that the Devil had obscurely taught the _Peruvians_ the Mysteries of the holy _Sacrament_ and _Trinity_, (that their glory might be eclips’d by Idolatrous Errors) especially the last, which seems plainly to be signifi’d by the _Peruvian_ Deity _Tangatanga_, whom they affirm’d to be One in Three, and Three in One. And that other Nations also had a glimpse of the same may be collected from _Philip Cluverius_, who endeavors to demonstrate, that the antient _Germans_ and _Gauls_ obscurely ador’d the _Trinity_ in the midst of their _Heathenism_, under the notion of _Sun_, _Moon_, and _Fire_, the Sun signifying the _Father_, the Moon the _Son_, and the Fire the _Holy-Ghost_; to confirm which he makes use of _Cæsar_’s Testimony, _viz._ _They onely esteem those Gods whom they see, and those that assist them_, viz. _the_ Sun, Vulcan, _and the_ Moon; _for they have never heard any thing concerning any other Gods_. _Diodorus Siculus_ seems also to ascribe a glimpse of this Mystery to the _Egyptians_, when he says, That the antientest People in _Egypt_, when they view’d the World, and were amaz’d at all things on the Earth, they judg’d that two Gods Govern’d them all, _viz._ the _Sun_ and _Moon_, by whom all things flourish’d and encreas’d; to whom they added a third, namely _Fire_, to which they attributed a Divinity, as conducing much to the increase and growth of all things. The _Moon_, which was also call’d _Juno_, they judg’d to be the Offspring of God, (for Son and Daughter were promiscuously taken) who, according to _Homer_, Marrying with _Jupiter_, brought forth _Vulcan_, which might haply be to them a Type or Figure of the _Holy-Ghost_, proceeding from the _Father_ and _Son_: _Vulcan_ was by her plac’d a President over the Fire, by which the _Heathens_ seem’d to imitate the fiery Power of the _Holy-Ghost_, purifying and cleansing all things: and this cleansing Power was aim’d at by _Romulus_, when, according to _Dionysius Halicarnassensis_, he commanded his Soldiers to leap through a Fire made before his Tent, that so they might be purifi’d from all their Crimes. But it may be thought strange, that the _Peruvians_, _Germans_, or _Egyptians_, lost in a Wood of gross Idolatry, could have any apprehension, though never so obscure, of the holy _Trinity_, when as the most nice and curious _Greek_ and _Roman_ Wits have made such gross mistakes concerning God. But to return again to the _Peruvians_: They kept their second Feast in the second Moneth _Camay_, on which they threw the Ashes of their Offerings into the River, and follow’d them on the Shore for the space of five Leagues, praying the River to carry the Ashes to the Sea, where _Viracocha_ would receive them. In the third and fourth Moneths they kill’d a hundred and ten black spotted and grey Sheep. In the beginning of _May_ (by the _Peruvians_ call’d _Hatuncuzqui_) they gather’d in their _Maiz_, and kept the Feast _Aymorai_; after which they return’d home Singing from their Fields, call’d _Chacra_, and carried a great heap of _Maiz_ with them, nam’d _Perua_, wrapping it up in rich Garments; three Nights they continu’d their Ceremonies, imploring the _Perua_ to preserve their Harvest of _Maiz_ from any damage that might chance to come to it, and also to let that grow prosperously which they should Plant next. Lastly, their Sorcerers consulted whether the _Perua_ could last till the next year? to which if they were answer’d _No_, they carried it into the Fields, and burning it, made a new _Perua_, which when they knew to be sufficient to last good a year, they carried it to the Granary in great triumph. In the seventh Moneth _Ancayacuzqui_, they kept the Feast call’d _Intraymi_, with a hundred Sheep, in honor of the Sun. They also made several Images of the Wood _Quimia_, which they put in rich Habits, strew’d the Ways with Flowers, Danc’d a strange Dance nam’d _Cayo_, Singing several Songs. Persons of Quality put Golden Plates about their Knees, as the common People painted them with divers Colours. In the eighth Moneth _Chahua_ they kept the high Feast _Huarqui_, on which they Offer’d a hundred grey Sheep; the like number, but of a Chesnut colour, they Offer’d the following Moneth _Yupaquis_, besides a thousand _Cuies_, that the Air, Water, or Sun, might not spoil their Plants. Their Feast _Situa_ they kept on the tenth Moneth _Coyaraymi_ after this manner: They gather’d all together on the first day before the Moon rose, which no sooner appear’d, but they made a terrible noise, beat one another with lighted Torches, then wash’d the Dirt from their Bodies, and made themselves Drunk for four Days together. The eleventh Moneth _Armaraimi_, was nam’d _Punchaiquis_, from the Feast they kept therein, on which (besides the usual Offerings of eight hundred Sheep) they ty’d a black Sheep to a Post without Meat, till such time as there fell store of Dew. Their Feast call’d _Raymicantara Raiquis_, was kept in the last Moneth _Ayamara_, on which their Youth were bor’d through the Ears. Amongst the high Feasts which were kept on great occasions, the chiefest was _Ytri_, against which they all made new Clothes after a peculiar fashion, wearing their Cloaks muffled about their Heads; in which manner they walked leisurely a whole Day and a Night; during which time none durst either Eat or Drink, or open his Eyes: But after this serious Processioning follow’d four days of extravagancy, as Drinking, Dancing, and the like. In their Dances, which were to the sound of Drums, Pipes, and Horns, they imitated all manner of Trades by strange motions of their Bodies, besides divers other Frolicks and May-games which they us’d at such times of Mirth and Festivity: But since the _Spaniards_ conquer’d _Peru_, all these _Heathenish_ Customs have been laid aside. [Sidenote: The Destruction of the old Empire of _Peru_ foretold.] As to the Prognostications and Fore-runners of the destruction of the old Empire of _Peru_, it is reported, that _Guaynacava_, Father of the last King _Attabaliba_, lying on his Death-bed in _Quito_, said to his Princes, _This Realm, at present rais’d to the highest top of Eminency, is hastning towards its Ruine; and though our Kingdom remain as yet free from foreign Invasion, the Countreys round about are already conquer’d and in Slavery: The Gods have call’d strange People from unknown Regions, who by degrees will reach us also. With me, who am the twelfth_ Inga, _dies the Dominion of the mighty_ Peru. _A People of other Fashions and Religion will subvert our Religion, Laws and Government, and bring us under subjection to them._ There were also Signs and Prodigies that portended the Dissolution of this Empire; amongst the rest a great Eruption in the Province of _Tacinga_, which rending the Earth asunder vomited up Flames of Fire; nor was it long e’re they were fulfill’d, for whilest the _Peruvians_ were making of Offerings to _Viracocha_ for the delivery of their imprison’d King _Huascar_, News was brought to _Cusco_ of _Attabaliba_’s being taken; the Particulars whereof, with other Matters touching the Conquest of this Kingdom by the _Spaniards_, and how they pillag’d the Countrey, murder’d the Inhabitants, and enrich’d themselves with their inestimable Treasures, shall in order be related. [Sidenote: By whom _Peru_ was first discover’d to the _Spaniards_.] [Sidenote: Great Difficulties in the Discovery of _Peru_.] [Sidenote: _Pizarro_ made Governor of _Peru_.] [Sidenote: _Pizarro_ taking _Attabaliba_ Prisoner, puts a vast Ransom upon him.] [Sidenote: _Huascar_ burnt by Order of his Brother _Attabaliba_.] [Sidenote: _Attabaliba_ put to death by the _Spaniards_.] [Sidenote: _Attabaliba_ strangled by _Almagro_’s Order.] [Sidenote: The antient Splendor of the _Peruvian Ingas_.] [Sidenote: _Quisquis_, _Attabaliba_’s General, stabb’d and cut in pieces.] [Sidenote: _Mango Inga_ releas’d out of Prison, sets upon the _Spaniards_, and is at last put to flight.] [Sidenote: Several Parties of the _Peruvians_ set upon the _Spaniards_ and overthrow them.] [Sidenote: They are beaten by _Alvarado_.] The first that gave the _Spaniards_ notice of _Peru_, was an _Indian_ Prince call’d _Panguinaco_, who having been taken Prisoner, inform’d _Vasquez Nunnez_ of the abundance or Gold and Silver which was to be had there, who resolv’d to venture through a thousand Dangers into the South Sea. After which _Francisco Pizarro_, _Ferdinand de Lugue_, and _Diego de Almagro_, consulted upon this great Design, _Anno 1525._ _Pizarrus_ being order’d to Sail before with a Ship carrying a hundred and fourteen Men, and _Almagro_ to follow with a Vessel carrying seventy Men, whilest _De Lugue_ staid to manage the Affairs at home. Fifty Leagues Southward from _Panama_, _Pizarrus_ found a small Neck of Land nam’d _Peru_, from which it is most probable that great Kingdom afterwards receiv’d its Denomination, though many deduce it from the River _Beru_, as before mention’d: Thence Sailing to the main Continent of _Peru_, and Landing, he lost several of his Men, and being himself desperately wounded, return’d with ill success, whilest _Almagro_ missing of him, Landed afterwards in the same place, and also lost several of his Men, and one of his own Eyes: yet not long after they renew’d their Design, carrying with them in two Ships and three Boats, three hundred stout Men, which all suffer’d extream Hunger, and had they not happily gotten some Sea-Crabs, they had without doubt all of them perish’d: at last Landing on the Coast of _Catamez_, they were Encountred by a People whose Faces were hung full of Golden Nails, and daily lost more and more of their Men; upon which ill Successes the new _American_ Vice-Roy forbad the farther discovery of _Peru_, and call’d home the remaining part from the Island _Gallo_, so that _Pizarro_ kept with him but twelve Men, with whom he went to the desolate Isle _Gorgona_, where he liv’d on Sea-Snails, till he receiv’d Provisions from _Panama_; after which they spent two years in making farther Discoveries upon the Coasts of _Peru_: During which time he visited the Queen _Capullana_, and discover’d a mighty Palace, where three of the twelve Men were kill’d, whose Memory deserves to live for ever, because the World owes to their unheard-of Valor the Discovery of the mighty Kingdom of _Peru_; but there are onely left Recorded the Names of those nine Worthies who surviv’d that Exploit, which were these following, _Nicholas de Rivera_, _Peter de Candia_, _Juan Torre_, _Alonzo Briseni_, _Christophero Peralca_, _Alonzo de Truxillo_, _Francisco Cuellar_, _Alonzo Molina_, and the Pilot _Bartholomeo Ruyz_: With these nine _Pizarro_ Landed on the Isle _Puna_, inhabited by a valiant People, who us’d Bowes, Darts, Silver Knives, and Pikes tipt with Gold: From thence he steer’d his Course unto the Haven _Tumbez_, where _Peter de Candia_ Landing, was met by forty thousand of the Inhabitants, who conducted him to the Temple of the Sun, built by the _Inga Guaynacava_, and adorn’d in the in-side with Golden Plates. Not long after which _Pizarro_ was by an Order from the _Spanish_ Court made Governor of _Peru_, to the great discontent of _Almagro_; which Difference being decided, _Pizarro_ set out again with two hundred and fifty Foot, besides Horse, with which he Landed a hundred Leagues lower than before, where he got a great Mass of Gold and some Emeraulds of the _Casique_, all which he sent to _Panama_, thereby to stir up the People to come to _Peru_ to his assistance; where those that were at present on the Place, besides other great Hardships which they suffer’d, were miserably plagued with Ulcers in their Faces; yet they prosecuted their Conquest as well as they could with what small Power was left them, and had newly taken _Puerto Viejo_ when Captain _Bevalcazar_ and _Juan Florez_ brought fresh Supplies of Men and Horse; with which Recruit _Pizarro_ conquer’d the Valley of _Tumbez_; from whence they Sail’d over to the Island _Punas_, where the friendly Entertainment they met with at first, turn’d soon after into a bloody Battel: for the _Spaniards_ not forbearing to prie into every House, and committing many Outrages, were set upon by the Natives, whom having at last subdu’d, and being again supply’d with new Forces by _Ferdinando Sotto_ from _Nicaragua_, they return’d to _Tumbez_, where the Countrey was all in Arms upon the Report of the _Spaniards_ Cruelties committed on the Island _Puna_, insomuch that they Offer’d all those whom they took alive to their Gods, and slew as many as they could conveniently meet with. _Pizarro_ having stay’d about twenty days, went with his Brothers _Juan_ and _Gonsalves_, the Captains _Sotto_ and _Bevalcazar_, and fifty Horse over the River _Ambato_ about Mid-night, through a thorny Way betwixt Mountains, and about Break-of-day fell upon the _Tumbezan_ Army, and having setled things pretty well in those Parts, he built the City _St. Michael_ in the Countrey _Tangazara_, along the River _De la Chira_, where he was Complemented by two Agents from _Cusco_, who desiring Aid in _Huascar_’s Name against his Brother _Attabaliba_, receiv’d for Answer, That he was going to _Caxamalca_, as indeed he was, to find _Attabaliba_ there; whose Commands that he should not approach prov’d all in vain: for _Pizarro_, under pretence of Complementing him in his Catholick Majesty’s Name, was no sooner admitted to his Presence, but he took him Prisoner, and set for a Ransom upon him as much Gold as a Room of fifty four Foot long and nine Foot broad was able to contain, as high as he could just reach with his Hand held up: But the Gold coming slower than was expected, _Pizarro_ was much incens’d thereat, whom _Attabaliba_ endeavoring to pacifie, alledg’d, That it could not possibly come sooner, because the Way between _Caxamalca_ and _Cusco_, from whence the Gold was to be fetch’d, was at a great distance: The truth whereof _Pizarro_ resolving to try, sent _Sotto_ and _Peter del Baro_ to _Cusco_ in Chairs, carried by _Peruvians_ exceeding swift of Foot, and who if they tir’d were successively reliev’d by others that attended, without so much as setting down the Chair; being got about half way, they met with _Attabaliba_’s Captain _Cilucuchuma_, he having taken _Huascar_ Prisoner, who requested _Sotto_ and _Baro_ that they would be pleas’d to deliver him out of the Hands of his blood-thirsty Brother, for which kindness he would pay three times as much Gold as _Attabaliba_ had promis’d, who was not able to give any thing else but the Golden Plates which were in the Temple of the Sun in _Cusco_; whereas _Huascar_ had all the Treasure that was left by _Guaynacava_; which indeed was true, for _Huascar_ had caus’d it privately to be buried, and put to death those that did it, that so he might keep the place conceal’d where it lay; insomuch that none could ever find it out to this day, though the _Spaniards_ have tortur’d the _Indians_ with all imaginable cruelty, to make them discover the place. But _Attabaliba_ inform’d by _Pizarro_ of _Huascar_’s Imprisonment, seem’d to be exceeding sorry, and said, _I am much troubled at the News of my Captain’s laying violent Hands on my Brother_ Huascar, _whom I acknowledge my eldest Brother, and both of the same Father and Mother; but I suppose he has no design to kill him, but onely keeps him Prisoner, to bring him to grant me peaceably to enjoy the Kingdom of_ Quito, _of late brought under subjection of the_ Peruvian _Crown_. _Pizarro_ not observing _Attabaliba_’s subtilty (who design’d nothing but _Huascar_’s Death, out of fear that the _Spaniards_ upon his liberal promises to them, might promote him to the Throne) comforted him as well as he could: whereupon _Attabaliba_ supposing that _Pizarro_ would be little concern’d at the killing of his Brother _Huascar_, gave speedy Order that he should be burnt alive, which accordingly was put into execution; but before he was brought to the Fire, he foretold his Brother _Attabaliba_’s cruel death. During which time _Almagro_ came with fresh Supplies from _Panama_, eager to have a share of the fore-mention’d Ransom, which at last was paid with overplus; for by daily bringing in of Baskets of Gold, the Chamber was fill’d up to the very top; but though _Attabaliba_ had more than perform’d his Promise, yet Sentence of Death was pronounc’d against him presently after he had been Baptiz’d: the Reasons of which wicked and rash Condemnation were two; first the false Accusation of a _Peruvian_ Interpreter call’d _Philippillo_, who desir’d his Death, that then he might with the more freedom enjoy one of his Wives; for _Attabaliba_ mistrusting the same, had complain’d thereof to _Pizarro_, saying, _That his Imprisonment was not so grievous to him, as the thoughts of the Adultery, acted against the strict Laws of his Countrey_; the Defiler of an _Inga_’s Bed being not onely to be burnt with the Adulterers, but also the whole Families of them, to the least Infant, their Houses to be rac’d to the Ground, and their Land sow’n with Salt, as for ever curs’d. The second cause of _Attabaliba_’s Death is laid on _Almagro_, who came to _Peru_ with new Forces, and who fearing that none of the Gold which _Attabaliba_ had the delivery of, would fall to his share, as not having been in the Battel where _Attabaliba_ was taken, therefore order’d him to be suddenly Strangled, that so the Booty might be equally divided. Not long after _Pizarro_ conquering _Cusco_, got no less Treasure than at _Caxamalca_. Here the Reign of the _Peruvian Inga_’s ceased, with which before no Kings that ever Govern’d in the World were able to compare in Riches and Glory. Their Palaces were round about adorn’d with Golden Images; and they never ate but out of Golden Vessels, spitting in the Hands of beautiful young Women of Noble Extract, were worshipp’d like Gods both whilest living and when dead, all their Subjects being their Slaves, and they the sole Lords of the whole Realm. In the interim _Bevalcazar_ march’d from the new City _St. Michael_, with a hundred and twenty Foot and eighty Horse, to assist the _Cannares_ against one of _Attabaliba_’s Generals, who having spoil’d the Ways by digging Pits, and covering them over with Bushes, resisted them in several places: then marching to _Quito_ he burnt the City, after having kill’d a hundred of the Natives, because they laughed at the _Spaniards_ Arrival. Afterwards joyning with _Almagro_, he went back to _Cusco_, whither on the Way he had News of _Quisquis_, _Attabaliba_’s General, and of his Brother _Guaypalcon_, who making use of a Rock, threw down great Stones, by the _Peruvians_ call’d _Galgas_, which in their Fall hitting others, brought down a great number with them, by which means he not onely defended the Place for the present, but kill’d fourteen _Spaniards_; nevertheless distrusting his ability to keep it, he retreated to a steep Mountain about Midnight, at the Foot whereof a Passage led over a deep River, where he burnt all his Luggage that he could not carry with him; also above fifteen thousand Sheep and four thousand Prisoners, became wholly at the Discretion of _Almagro_, who leaving there Captain _Martin Astete_, order’d him to build the Town _Truxillo_: In the mean time _Quisquis_ was put to flight by _Pizarro_, and went to _Quito_, where he lost many People, that were kill’d by _Bevalcazar_’s Guard; yet those that were remaining chose rather to Fight to the last, than flye through Wildernesses, and there be starv’d to death; which _Quisquis_ contradicting, was Stabb’d by his Captain _Guappalau_, and immediately after cut to pieces. As soon as these Stirs were quieted, _Pizarro_ began to build the City _Los Reyos_, near a convenient Haven of the Southern Ocean, whilest _Almagro_ marching to _Chili_ with two Troops of Horse, and five hundred Foot, return’d without doing any thing remarkable, except his taking the Interpreter _Philippillo_, (whom he caus’d to be cut into four pieces) and his maintaining several Battels against the _Chileses_, clad in Sea-Wolves Skins. In this Journey he lost several of his Men on the Snowy Mountains. About this time a Ship fitted out by _Gabriel Carvajal_, Bishop of _Placentia_, Sailing through the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, ran into the Haven _Los Reyos_, out of which the first Rats swam ashore that ever were in _Peru_, by which the Countrey since suffering much damage, the Inhabitants call’d them _Ococha_, that is, _Sinful Creatures_. Now all things on the _Spaniards_ side were tending to a quiet possession, when a new Accident arose, which had like to have spoil’d all, for _Mango Inga_, _Attabaliba_’s Brother, being releas’d out of Prison by _Juan Pizarro_, obtain’d leave to go to _Yucaya_, to fetch the famous Golden Image _Machys_, representing his Father _Guaynacava_: but he having now gotten his Liberty slew all the _Spaniards_ which work’d in the Gold-Mines, took the Castle of _Cusco_ by Storm, as also the City, after a Siege of eight Moneths; which nevertheless was by _Francisco Pizarro_ soon re-taken, and _Mango_ forc’d to flye into the Mountains _Andes_, after he had kill’d several of _Almagro_’s Men; soon after _Almagro_ about Midnight getting over the Walls, and taking _Ferdinando_ and _Gonsalvo Pizarro_, and _Alphonso Alvarado_ Prisoners, condemn’d them all three to die, caus’d himself to be proclaim’d Governor, and gave the Royal Tassel to _Paulo Inga_, whilest _Gonsalvo_ and _Alvarado_ breaking Prison, inform’d _Francisco Pizarro_ thereof (who then had obtain’d the Title of _Marquess_, and for an Inheritance, the Province _Attabillos_;) he was exceedingly troubled for his Brother _Ferdinand_, whose Enlargement he thought would be best procur’d by making Peace with _Almagro_ and the sooner, because the _Peruvians_ began to rebel against the _Spaniards_ in most places, slew divers Companies of them; amongst whom _Diego Pizarro_ was set upon in a narrow Path call’d _Laucesta Parcos_, and amongst the Mountains lost seventy Horsemen; and _Gonsalvo de Tapico_ sav’d not one of eighty Horse. Also the _Peruvians_ set upon three hundred Troopers, Commanded by the Generals of the Horse, _Morgoveio_ and _Gaeti_, in a narrow Path, and rowl’d down great Stones from the tops of the Mountains both before and behind them, so killing both Horse and Man before they could put themselves into a posture of Defence, insomuch that none escap’d with Life but two Troopers. _Francisco de Godoy_, sent out of _Los Reyos_ with forty five Horse, upon Discoveries, return’d also with great loss, being pursu’d twenty Leagues by the _Peruvians_; against whom _Peter de Lerma_ being sent out with sixty Horse, fought a whole day with them, and though few of his Men were kill’d, yet many were wounded, and several taken: The victorious _Peruvians_ retreating to the top of a sandy Mountain in the Night, Offer’d the _Spaniards_ they had taken Prisoners, as a testimony of thanks, to _Viracocha_, and afterwards stood drawn up near the City _Los Reyos_ by the General _Tyzopangui_. The Marquess thus beset round, sent for Aid from _New Spain_ and _Truxillo_, and also for _Alphonso Alvarado_ to come back, who had been sent to discover the Countrey _Chachepoyos_, and being gotten into a Desart, would without doubt have perish’d for want of Water, had not some Horsemen riding somewhat out of the Way, found Pits with fresh Water: notwithstanding which, five hundred _Inacona_’s (for so the _Spaniards_ call’d the _Peruvian_ Slaves) died for Thirst. He was afterwards supply’d by _Gomez Tordoya_ with two hundred Men, by the help of whom, though encompass’d by the Inhabitants near the Bridge _Lamucacha_, where began a fierce Battel, _Alvarado_ was in the end Conqueror. [Sidenote: Civil War between _Pizarro_ and _Almagro_.] [Sidenote: The Marquess _Francisco Pizarro_ murdered.] [Sidenote: His Original and the manner of his Rising.] Whilest the _Spaniards_ found so much to do with the _Peruvians_, yet they could not forbear more and more Clashing amongst themselves, the Marquess commanding that _Almagro_ should surrender and leave the City _Cusco_; but he refusing to obey, fortifi’d himself on the top of the Mountain _Gaytara_, stopt the Ways by cutting down the Trees: but _Ferdinando Pizarro_ getting up to the top along a private Way, made such a confusion amongst them with Bolt-shot, that _Almagro_, who was sick at that time, was forc’d to flye; which being told _Pizarro_, he pursu’d him, and had doubtless utterly defeated him at that bout, had not his Men, benumm’d with marching in the deep Snow, been taken with a Distemper which made them as if they had been all Sea-sick, (for such is the property of the Mountain _Guaytara_) insomuch that they could scarce carry their Arms: Whereupon _Almagro_ was advis’d to oppose his Pursuers, and that he need not doubt of the Victory; but he either following his own Dictates, or being counter-advis’d, fortifi’d himself in _Cusco_, whither _Ferdinand_ and _Gonsalvo Pizarro_ march’d against him. _Rodrigo de Orgonnes_ Commanded _Almagro_’s Army, who being sick, lay on the Walls of the City to see the Battel fought. The _Peruvians_, who on each side were in the _Spanish_ Service, march’d in the Front: on the twenty sixth of _April, Anno 1538._ the Fight began, in which the _Almagrians_ did much mischief with Cross-bar shot amongst the _Pizarrians_; yet _Almagro_’s Horse retreated first, being under the Command of _Peter Valdivia_; soon after which the rest of his Army, their Courage also failing, fled to the City; into which, as soon as _Orgones_ being shot in the Head and slain, the Conqueror rush’d after them, and took _Almagro_ Prisoner: yet notwithstanding this prosperous beginning, he soon found himself in a great strait, since those which remain’d alive of _Almagro_’s Party refus’d to serve _Pizarro_, and murmur’d against him in all places, resolving to take _Almagro_ from him by force, besides that _Pizarro_’s Soldiers grumbled that they were not paid sufficiently for the many hazards which they had run: wherefore to compose these Troubles as well as possibly he could, he banish’d all whom he thought to be of the opposite Party, sent away the chief of his own mutinous Soldiers with Captain _Peter de Candia_, to discover new Countreys, put _Almagro_ to death, and march’d to _Callao_; where being straitned for want of Provision, he made no stay, but got his Army with much ado to _Cusco_. _Gonsalves Pizarro_ was likewise so set upon by the Natives, that he lost a considerable number of Men: In short, the _Pizarrans_ were defeated in all places, and at length the Marquess, though forewarn’d by his Secretary _Antonio Picado_, was murder’d in his own House in the City of _Lima_, otherwise call’d _De los Reyos_, by a Bastard-Son of _Almagro_, nam’d _Diego_, in the Year 1541; his Body dragg’d to the Church-yard, lay there to every ones view and derision, till _John de Barbara_ buried the same. His Father _Gonsalvo Pizarro_, sir-nam’d _The tall Citizen of Truxillo_, Commanding a Company of Foot in _Navarre_, had two lawful Sons, _viz._ _Ferdinand_, who was murder’d in the _Spanish_ Castle _Motta_, and _John_ that was slain in _Cusco_, when _Mango Inga_ conquer’d the City, the other two, _Gonsalvo_ and _Francisco_, being both Bastards; the last of which is said to have been expos’d by his Mother in the Church Porch, and kept alive for several days by sucking of a Sow, till his Father afore-mention’d finding him, and acknowledging him for his Son, put him out to Nurse, and when he was grown up set him to keep Swine; which course of Life he soon left, and following _Alphonsus de Ojeda_, _Balboa_, and _Pedro de Avita_ in their Expeditions, he quickly grew rich, and at last came to that heighth of Honor and Command we have heard. _Francisco Martino de Alcantara_ was also his Brother by the Mothers side onely. He was a Man who despis’d all Dangers and Hardships, was so well experienc’d in Martial Affairs, that he might well stand in competition with many of the antient Heroes. In _Los Reyos_ he built two very artificial Water-Mills, a _Dominican_ Cloyster, and another for the Monks _De la Merced_, and likewise a stately Palace for himself: He was both meek and affable; and though he bore the greatest Command in the Emperor’s Name over the mighty Kingdom of _Peru_, and got more Riches than ever any of the _Roman_, _Persian_, _Grecian_, or _Assyrian_ Monarchs possess’d, yet he went in the same plain kind of Apparel in the heighth of his Grandeur, as when he was but in a low Condition; about his Neck he commonly ty’d a Linnen Hankerchiff, with which he us’d to wipe the Sweat from his Face: in peaceable Intervals he spent whole days in playing at Bowls, without any distinction of Persons, chusing often to play rather with a Sea-man or common Soldier, than a phantastick Gallant: He visited the meanest Citizens, and many times us’d to eat with poor People, to whom he was upon all occasions very noble and liberal; All his Designs he carried on by the strength of meer natural Parts: for he was so very illiterate, that he could neither Write nor Read; his Edicts were Sign’d with his two Marks, betwixt which his Secretary writ _Francisco Pizarro_; he is said to have had a Son which died young by _Attabaliba_’s Sister, who came afterwards to be call’d _Donna Angelina_; he died in a very unfortunate time, for upon his good success the _Spanish_ Power had grounded their whole Designs, thinking with the _Peruvian_ Treasures, as the Sinews of War, to have erected a fifth Monarchy to succeed the fourth of the _Romans_. [Sidenote: _Almagro_ utterly defeated by _Vacca de Castro_.] [Sidenote: Deliver’d up Prisoner by _Salazar_, and Beheaded.] _Pizarro_’s Murderer, though aiming at the Supream Power, he had a considerable Party to countenance and aid him, yet he found resistance in many places, not without the loss of many Men on both sides. In which Juncture the Learned _Vacca de Castro_ Landed in _Peru_, with a Commission from the Emperor to settle the divided Kingdom of _Peru_ in Peace and Quiet; but the young _Almagro_ mad to see his Ambition thus cross’d, gave Battel to _Castro_ in the Plain of _Chupas_; the Dispute was long and resolute on both sides, and the Night coming on made the Fight the more terrible, in which the Victory inclin’d to _Castro_; however the _Almagrians_ stood to it stoutly for a great while, and that chiefly through the valor of the Captains _Balboa_ and _Christopher Losa_, who breaking in amongst the _Castreans_, hack’d and hew’d down all they came near, till at last they were forc’d to betake themselves to flight, and had not many of them exchang’d their white Scarfs with the red of the slain _Castreans_, scarce any of them had escap’d from being kill’d in the pursuit, and most of them that did escape were slain the next Morning by the _Peruvians. Rodrigo Salazar, Almagro_’s Deputy, deliver’d up his Lord to _Castro_, who condemn’d him to death, whereupon he was immediately Beheaded with a Sword. This Battel hapned on the twenty sixth of _September Anno 1542_. when it Froze so hard the following Night, that most of those that were left wounded upon the place, were frozen to death. Thus _Castro_ began his Government with Blood, and made it his first Business to make a Discovery by several of his Captains, whom he sent for that purpose, of the Countreys lying Eastward from _Peru_, lying upon the great River _De la Plata_, and the River _Marannon_, where in most places they met onely with salvage People, and for the most part Man-eaters; and in one place where they Landed, a great Fish resembling a Dog came ashore and kill’d several Arm’d Soldiers. A year and a half _Castro_ had liv’d in _Cusco_, when at the arrival of the Vice-Roy _Blascus Nunnez Vela_, all things were turn’d topsie-turvy, he being sent thither by the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth, accompanied by four Councellors, _Diego Sepada_, _Lison Tejada_, _Juan Alvarez_, and _Peter Ortiz_, to curb the _Spaniards_ Villanies and Outrages committed against the _Peruvians_, entred _Tumbez, Anno 1544_. where he immediately publish’d the Emperor’s Edicts, which were to this effect: [Sidenote: The Emperor’s Proclamation in behalf of the _Indians_.] _All_ Peruvians _are to be releas’d from Slavery; no_ Spaniard _shall the least oppress them, nor make use of their Service without rewarding them for the same, nor take any Provisions of them without paying for it_. [Sidenote: Ill resented by the _Spaniards_.] [Sidenote: _Pizarro_ marches against the Vice-Roy _Vela_.] [Sidenote: _Vela_ clashing with the Commissioners, is seiz’d upon.] [Sidenote: Being Shipt for _Spain_, is brought back by _Alvaradez_.] [Sidenote: Is put to flight and pursu’d by _Pizarro_.] [Sidenote: The Vice-Roy slain by _Carvayales_.] [Sidenote: _Pizarro_’s Luxury, and Tyranny.] [Sidenote: _Vela Nunnez_ and _La Torre_ Plotting against _Pizarro_, are taken and Executed.] This Proclamation was like to put the _Spaniards_ into an uproar: for at that time a _Peruvian_ Lord was forc’d to allow every Foot-Soldier three Slaves, and a Horseman five, besides Hens, Rabbets, Eggs, the Wine _Azun_, and other Provisions, for nothing. The general Complaints were, _Is this the Reward for our Service which we have shewn to the Emperor? Is not this mighty Kingdom of_ Peru _by our Blood and Labor joyn’d to the Imperial Crown? Our Shoulders are grown sore under our Arms, our Bodies made useless with Wounds, and our Limbs lame’d with Bruises. Who shall maintain our Wives and Children, if the_ Peruvians, _who according to the Law of Arms are become our Slaves, should not be forc’d to fish for Pearls in the Sea, and dig us Silver out of the Mines, and do us other Service for to maintain us?_ But _Vela_ being deaf to these Complaints, resolv’d that the Emperor’s Commands should be fulfill’d, and that those that spake against them should lose their Lives: and that he might terrifie the generality with the punishment of a few, he caus’d Fryer _Peter_ of the Order of the Virgin _Mary_ to be Executed in _Truxillo, Castro_ to be committed to Prison at _Lima_, because he had put _Almagro_ to death without Examination, and shut the Gates of _Cusco_ when his Agent came before the same. But do what he could, the _Spaniards_ generally making Head, utterly refus’d to obey the Emperor’s Edicts, and chose _Gonsalvo Pizarro_ for their General, who rais’d five hundred Men in compleat Arms in _Cusco_, from whence he march’d directly with them to _Los Reyos_, under pretence to deliver a Petition there to the Vice-Roy’s Council, about deferring to put the new Edicts in force till the Emperor was better inform’d of the present Condition of the _Peruvian_ State; twenty great Field-pieces being also order’d to follow _Pizarro_’s Army, were carried by the _Peruvians_ over craggy Mountains; to each Gun without the Carriage were order’d three hundred Men, of whom twelve at a time carried it in their turns a hundred Paces a piece; though several eminent Persons considering the weightiness of the Affair, forsook _Pizarro_’s Party, and went privately to the Vice-Roy, as on the other side, many deserting the Vice-Roy joyn’d with _Pizarro_, who being not a little supply’d by _Peter Puelles_ Governor of _Guanaca_, took several of those that had deserted him Prisoners, and put them all to death, whilest the Vice-Roy made what Preparations possibly he could, Hanging many innocent Persons onely on suspicion of holding Correspondency with _Pizarro_, insomuch that there was no end of Murdering on both sides. But _Vela_ clashing with his Councellors, because they would not consent that he should ruine _Los Reyos_, resolv’d to do it without them; and to that end to remove the Emperor’s Seal, Staple of Trade, and Courts Judicature to _Truxillo_, and to spoil the Countrey all about; which as he was about to put in Execution, they privately got Captain _Martin Robles_, and _Vela_’s Lifeguard, consisting of a hundred Men, on their side, whilest the common People mutinying broke into the Palace, took _Vela_ and carried him to the chief Church in _Los Reyos_, where the four Councellors were assembled, who order’d that the Prisoner should be Shipt and sent away to _Spain_, when _Alvares Cueto_ lying in the Harbor with ten Sail, threatned to fall upon the Inhabitants if they would not release the Vice-Roy: whereupon the Councellors well provided with Guns, rais’d several Batteries against his Ships, so that _Cueto_ finding himself too weak, set four of his Vessels on fire, and Sail’d with the rest to the Haven _Guavara_; where being set upon by _Diego Garzias_, he was forc’d to deliver the remaining part of his Fleet up to the Councellors, who sent _Vela_ away with the same, under the Command of _Didaco Alvaradez_. But _Pizarro_, who till this time had pretended that he sought nothing else but _Vela_’s Departure, march’d close to the Walls of _Los Reyos_ with twelve hundred Men, Hang’d three Citizens upon a Tree, requir’d the Councellors to grant him Letters Patents, by which he might be acknowledg’d for the Supream Governor of _Peru_, which if they refus’d, he threatned to put all that were in the City to the Sword; and upon Consultation it was judg’d convenient to grant his Demands, the rather, because they had not above fifty fighting Men in the City. Mean while _Didaco Alvaradez_ making an Agreement with the Vice-Roy, they return’d back with their Ships, and Landed in the Haven Mouth of the River _Tumbez_, rais’d what Forces they could possibly thereabouts, but were forc’d to retire from thence to _Quito_, (at the same time that the Councellor _Tejada_, being sent by _Pizarro_ to the Emperor, came to an Anchor there) where they were courteously Entertain’d; as also in _St. Michael_, where they got daily more and more Assistants; of which _Pizarro_ being inform’d, went thither with five hundred Men, and forcing the Vice-Roy to flye from thence, pursu’d him above thirty Leagues, Hanging up all those whom he could take of his Party. After many Rencounters and Hardships suffer’d by both Parties, _Pizarro_ exceedingly wearied, return’d to _Quito_, where he minded nothing but all manner of Debaucheries, not in the least regarding the Vice-Roy’s Designs, which it concern’d him to have narrowly look’d into, for he having got five hundred Men on his side, resolv’d to venture a Battel. It was towards Evening when the two Parties had sight of one another: _Pizarro_ having not onely more Men, but also better Exercis’d in Arms than the Vice-Roy, who being sensible thereof, went silently about Midnight from his Station along a narrow by Path, so to fall behind upon the Rere of the Enemy, who mistrusted nothing, by reason the Vice-Roy’s Dogs kept a continual Barking in his old Station, and the _Peruvian_ Sentinels were heard calling to one another, and making great Fires all the Night long; but because the Way was over-grown, and farther about than it was suppos’d, the Vice-Roy finding the Night too far spent, went back to _Quito_, out of which he Sallied as soon as he had sight of _Pizarro_’s Forces; against whom, being clad in a white Riding Coat, through the Slits of which appear’d a Cloth of Tissue Doublet, he came Riding on a Bay Gelding in the Head of his Party; with which breaking in amongst the Enemies Ranks, he made a considerable slaughter amongst them, till _Hernand Tores_ coming near him, gave him a Blow on the Head with a Battel-Ax, that fell’d him to the Ground, which the Lawyer _Carvayales_ seeing, ran immediately, out of desire to revenge his Brother’s Death, whom the Vice-Roy had murder’d, and chopp’d off his Head. Thus _Pizarro_ being absolute Master of the Field, began to shew his tyranny upon the Prisoners, some he took away by Poyson, others he Executed with the Sword and Halter, others he banish’d to the remote Countrey _Chili_, and spent his time in all manner of Vice in _Quito_; where, amongst other leud Actions, making Love to another Man’s Wife, he hir’d one _Vincent Paul_ to murder her Husband, which said _Vincent_ was afterwards Hang’d at _Valladolid_ in _Spain_. The Adulteress also was afterwards Got with Child by her own Father, and both of them put to death for Incest and murdering of their Child. _Pizarro_ being receiv’d as King in _Los Reyos_, grew every day more proud than other, insomuch that his Friends themselves began to hate and envy him, and wanted onely a convenient opportunity to rid themselves of this high-minded Tyrant. A strange Accident, among others, had done him great hurt, had it not been timely discover’d, _viz._ _Joan de la Torre_, a Soldier formerly belonging to the Vice-Roy, found accidentally a Grave in the Valley _Hica_ (which by the _Peruvians_ had been worshipp’d above two Ages before) and in it so much Offer’d Gold and Silver as amounted to above eighty thousand Crowns in Gold, besides many Emeraulds and _Turcoises_, all which Treasure he was puzled how to carry away and possess securely, partly fearing the Emperor’s Displeasure, if he should arrive thus rich in _Spain_, the rather because he had sided with _Pizarro_, and also knowing it was impossible to convey it on Ship-board without one or others knowledge; at last, after many Contrivances, he judg’d it convenient to put the Money in a small Vessel, and Sail with the same to _Nicaragua_, there to raise Men to oppose _Pizarro_ in those Parts, that so he might re-gain the Emperor’s Favor. This Undertaking seem’d to be threatned by many Dangers, he not having a sufficient Spirit to Command, or at least Experience to officiate the Place of a Captain. In the mean time _Vela Nunnez_, Brother to the slain Vice-Roy, taken in the Battel at _Quito_, had so much priviledge allow’d him from _Pizarro_, that he went a Hunting, and other such Exercises, distant from the Camp, who meeting with _La Torre_, took him in his arms, and embrac’d him with great joy, which so wrought upon _La Torre_, that he discover’d the Secret of his discover’d Treasure, took an Oath of him that he would be faithful to him, and take Revenge of _Pizarro_ for all the Injuries receiv’d from him; but before, according to their Agreement, they could set Sail from thence, their Plot being discover’d, both _Nunnez_ and _Torre_ were Executed, and their Riches fell into the Hands of _Pizarro_. [Sidenote: _Peter Gasca_ sent to settle Affairs in _Peru_.] Whilest the _Peruvian_ Affairs were in this confusion and disorder, _Peter Gasca_, impower’d by the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth, arriving there, endeavor’d to settle all things in Peace and Quiet, and sent by _Peter Hernandes_, besides the Emperor’s Letter, another which he writ himself to _Pizarro_, the Contents of which were to this purpose: [Sidenote: _Gasca_’s Letter to _Pizarro_.] _The_ Peruvian _Soyl hath drunk up the_ Spanish _Blood long enough, and the ruin’d Realm gapes for Rest: The Emperor proffers Pardon for all past Crimes, Repeals the new Laws which the Vice-Roy_ Vela, _during his Government, enjoyn’d the_ Spaniards _to observe. If_ Pizarro _aims at the general Welfare, he may easily see that Arms must first be laid aside, which he now depends on in vain, all his Associates being ready to forsake him, because no Soldier can take up Arms against the Emperor, without being guilty of high Treason_. [Sidenote: _Pizarro_’s Designs against him.] [Sidenote: His Party generally fall off to _Gasca_.] [Sidenote: _Cusco_ taken by _Centeno_.] _Pizarro_ confounded with this Letter, call’d a Council of War, who differ’d very much from one another in their Votes, some judging that it would be best privately to destroy _Gasca_, others were for an open Engagement, but most thought of another way, _viz._ to get his Person into their custody, and keep him under a strong Guard on the Island _Puna_, under pretence that the _Peruvian_ Princes were sent for to come and acknowledge him as supream Governor, which because the Cities lay so remote one from another, could not be done in less than two years. Mean while an Embassy was to be sent to the Court at _Madrid_, which should enjoyn _Gasca_ to remain in _Panama_, and not offer to come to _Peru_ till such time as the Emperor commanded the same a second time at the return of the Agents. But _Hieronimus Loaisa_, chief Bishop of _Los Reyos_, _Thomas Martin_, Provincial of the _Dominicans_, _Gomes Solis_, _Pizarro_’s Steward, _Laurence Aldana_, who were design’d for this Embassy to the Emperor _Charles_, never went their Journey, but staid in _Panama_ with _Gasca_, who had also gain’d to his Party _Peter Alfonso Ainoiosa_, who Commanded _Pizarro_’s Fleet: _Aldana_ likewise inform’d him of all _Pizarro_’s private Councels; whereupon _Gasca_ sent privately for Aid to _Mexico_, _Guatimala_, _Nicaragua_, and _St. Domingo_, and dispatch’d four Ships with three hundred Men, Commanded by _Aldana_, from the Haven _Panama_, with Order to Land about Midnight against the City _Los Reyos_, and so fall unawares on _Pizarro_. _Aldana_ accordingly falling into the Bay of _Malabrige_, was reliev’d and supply’d with Provisions by _Diego Mora_, Governor of _Truxillo_: On the other side, the Field-Marshal _Carvayales_ being sent for by _Pizarro_, made a pompous Entrance, with the firing of Guns and Bonfires, into _Los Reyos_, where all Persons that seem’d to have the least inclination for _Gasca_, were either stabb’d or poyson’d. In the room of _Mora_, _Pizarro_ sent the Lawyer _Garcias Leon_ to be Governor of _Truxillo_, but he being taken by _Aldana_’s Fleet, joyn’d with _Gasca_; and thus all things began to conspire the ruine of _Pizarro_, yet he despair’d not, but being inform’d of the approach of the Ships, caus’d the Drums to be beaten in _Los Reyos_, forc’d every one that was able to bear Arms, on pain of death to serve him, made several experienc’d Soldiers, Commanders over his Horse and Foot, to whom he gave as much Money as they requir’d, to maintain those whom they had rais’d, and who were to be rais’d, by which means he got a thousand Men in Arms; to which number, according to an Order sent to _Cusco_, _Plata_, _Arequipa_, _Lima_, _Guanuco_, and other neighboring Places, new Forces were expected to joyn; but _Savedra_, Governor of _Guanuco_, deserting the City, left _Pizarro_ and joyn’d with _Mora_, who secur’d the Province of _Caxamalca_ for _Gasca_. Thus _Pizarro_ began to be daily more and more forsaken. Since the destruction of the Vice-Roy _Vela_, Captain _Diego Centeni_ had hid himself out of fear of _Pizarro_ a whole year, in a Cave under Ground, but now inform’d of _Gasca_’s Arrival, came forth, and getting forty Men and some Horses together, which also belong’d formerly to the Vice-Roy, resolv’d, though meanly Arm’d, to go upon a bold Design, _viz._ to take the City _Cusco_; of which _Antonio de Robles_, a Man hated and despis’d for his mean Extract and little Wit, had the chief Command, there being therein a Garrison of five hundred Soldiers, besides the Citizens, who were likewise in Arms: Being inform’d of _Centeno_’s approach, he sent out _Francisco Aguierre_ as a Spye to discover the Enemy; but he joyning with _Centeno_, advis’d him to march along a By-way, and towards Night to draw up about _Cusco_, which accordingly he did, and forcing open the Gates, rush’d in with his Horse against the Enemy, who were drawn up in the Market-place, and breaking through their Ranks trampled whole Companies under foot; after which he fell in upon _Robles_, who having forgotten to give his Men the _Word_, caus’d a great distraction; for the Men blinded by the darkness of the Night, knew not Friend from Foe, insomuch that _Robles_’s Party did one another more mischief than _Centeno_ did; who being thus become Master of the City, caus’d _Robles_ to be Beheaded the next day, and distributed a hundred thousand _Ducats_ amongst his Soldiers, and then march’d with a hundred Men to the City _Plata_, to bring _Mendoza_, Governor of the same, under the Emperor’s subjection; in which his Design he likewise prov’d successful, being supply’d with a hundred and thirty Foot, which _Lucas Martin_, had fetch’d from _Arequipa_ for the Service of _Pizarro_, whom since he had deserted and joyn’d with _Gasca_’s Party. Mean while the Fleet under the Command of _Aldana_ arriv’d in the Haven before _Los Reyos_, to the great terror and amazement of the whole City; from whence _Pizarro_ marching, Encamp’d himself with five hundred and fifty Men, so to prevent their Landing, swearing that he would spare none whoe’re fell into his Hands, and sent Order to _Peter Martin_, whom he had left in the City, immediately to Hang up those which would not follow the Army, or who return’d from thence home; to which purpose _Martin_ went from place to place with an Executioner, and thinking him not quick enough in his Work, stabb’d many Citizens himself: And strict Order was given by _Pizarro_ that all Runaways should be punish’d with Death; notwithstanding all which many of his nearest Friends daily forsook him, taking advantage of the darkness of the Night; nay, the Soldiers themselves would at Noon-day ride away from him, crying aloud, _Long live the Emperor, and let the Tyrant_ Pizarro _die_: Wherefore he judg’d it most convenient to remove to the Countrey _Nasca_: During his Journey thither, whole Troops left him, insomuch that he scarce kept a hundred and fifty Men, and those he fear’d every Minute would fall upon him and Murder him. [Sidenote: _Los Reyos_ declares for the Emperor.] [Sidenote: _Pizarro_ utterly defeated, surrenders himself into _Gasca_’s Power.] [Sidenote: _Carvayales_ and _Pizarro_ both put to death by _Gasca_.] With _Pizarro_’s departure, the whole Scene of Affairs was chang’d in _Los Reyos_; for there the Imperial Standard was erected, the City Cryer read the Letters of Pardon which _Gasca_ had brought with him from _Spain_ in the corner of every Street. _Juan Palimino_ Landing with fifty Men, receiv’d all those that had deserted _Pizarro_, whilest _Gasca_ set Sail from _Panama_ with five hundred Men, with whom Landing at _Truxillo_, he Encamp’d himself in the Valley _Xauxa_, whither great multitudes flock’d from all places out of malice to _Pizarro_, who in a short time had destroy’d above five hundred Gentlemen. But _Pizarro_ having quitted _Los Reyos_, he possess’d the City _Arequipa_, which he found quite desolate, but meeting afterwards with the Forces Commanded by _Juan Acosta_, of which one half were also run away, joyn’d with them, and march’d against _Centeno_, who lay along the Lake _Titicaca_, with whom he Engag’d in the Plain _Guarina_: _Ludovico Ribera_ Landing, _Centeno_’s Party fir’d their Guns before the _Pizarrians_ were within shot of him, of which _Carvayales_ making speedy use, drew up his Pieces close before the Enemy, and made an exceeding slaughter amongst them, killing above a hundred and fifty Men in the first Onset; the Horse amaz’d at the sudden destruction of the Foot, fled, leaving the remaining Foot-Soldiers open to the Enemy, who was gotten behind them with his Musquetteers, and with his Horse before, whilest six _Peruvians_ carried away _Centeno_ out of the Fight, he lying sick on a Chair. _Pizarro_ thus become Victor, kill’d all he met with; of which _Gasca_ being inform’d, resolving upon a private and sudden Revenge, caus’d all Necessaries for War to be made ready, and march’d with a thousand and nine hundred Men out of the Valley of _Xauxa_ to _Cusco_, where by the Way he was supply’d with the Forces, which the experienc’d Colonel _Peter Valdivia_ had brought from _Chili_; with which coming to _Andagua_, he took up his Quarters there for some time, because the mild Winter had with continual Rains made the Ways so dirty, that there was no travelling, and had rotted their Tents and _Maiz_, and also occasion’d the Bloody-flux amongst the Soldiers. In _March_, _Gasca_ broke up with his Camp to cross the River _Apurima_, which he found very troublesom, because _Pizarro_ had broke down all the Bridges: But _Gasca_ caus’d Wood and other Materials to be carried to several places, that the Enemy should not certainly know his Intentions, and at last march’d over deep snowy Mountains to _Cotabamba_, where suddenly he made a Bridge, over which march’d four hundred Foot, but the Horse suffer’d most damage; for sixty Horses loaden with Arms going to wade over, were carried down by the Stream against sharp Rocks, by which they were desperately gor’d in their sides, and many of them kill’d outright. _Pizarro_ inform’d of the Enemies whole Proceedings by his Spyes, sent _Acosta_ thither with two hundred Musquetteers, to fall upon those that were come over, whom he finding too many, durst not venture to Engage with them. Mean while _Gasca_’s whole Army getting over on the other side of the River _Apurima_, march’d up a high Hill, whilest _Pizarro_ Encamp’d himself five Leagues from _Cusco_, in a Plain call’d _Saguisagrana_, the Entrance into his Camp being fortifi’d with six Field-Pieces, each side by a River and several Mountains, and the Rere by a deep dry Moat: _Gasca_ stood upon a Hill and view’d the Enemy’s whole Forces lying in the Valley, and being oppress’d with excessive Heat, whilest his Men were so exceedingly pinch’d with Cold in the Night, that they were scarce able to hold their Arms, according to the strange property of the _Peruvian_ Climate; for the tops of Hills generally Freeze, whilest the Valleys about a League from thence are parch’d with Heat: At Break-of-day _Gasca_ descended the Hill; his Horse being divided into two Wings, were Commanded, the left by _Juan Savedra_, and the right by _Balthazar Castro_; _Mendoza_ led some Dragoons, _Valdivia_ guarded the Guns, and _Gasca_ himself march’d in the Front of the Musquetteers. On the other side, _Pizarro_ plac’d the _Peruvians_ on his right Wing, _Cepeda_ and _Acosta_ Commanded the Horse, _Carvayales_ and _La Torre_ the Foot, _Sebastian Vergara_ and _Peter Soria_ guarded the Field-Pieces: But the Battel was scarce begun, when _Cepedo_ and a great part of the Horse deserting _Pizarro_ went to joyn with _Gasca_, and immediately after the right Wing of the Musquetteers; at the same time _Centeno_ and _Mendoza_ fir’d amongst _Pizarro_’s main Body, of which some ran away to _Cusco_, others with their Colours to _Gasca_’s Army. _Pizarro_ seeing himself thus forsaken, cry’d out, _Since all are fled to the Imperial Standard, I will also betake my self thither, where perhaps I may find Mercy_: Whereupon _Acosta_ answer’d, _Let us rather fall in amongst the thickest of the Enemy, and die valiantly_: To which _Pizarro_ reply’d, _No, now I have lost Honor and Goods, I must take care for my Soul, that that may not be lost also_; which said, he lighted from his Horse, Caparison’d in Silver, and deliver’d himself and his Sword into the Hands of the Serjeant _Villavicenzo_, who found him Habited in curious Armor, a Golden Helmet with a stately Plume of Feathers, and a Corslet incircl’d with Emeraulds about his Neck: _Gasca_ seeing him brought before him in this manner, said thus unto him, _Have you not order’d your Business well, to waste so much of the Emperor’s Treasure, and shed so much Blood, and all to confirm your self in your unlawful Usurpation of_ Peru? To which _Pizarro_ answer’d, saying, _I have spent my own Estate in the Service of the_ Spanish _Crown, and might lawfully take upon me the Government of_ Peru, _having with the loss of my Brother’s Life, and the hazard of my own, discover’d the same_. _Carvayales_ escaping out of the Fight, had hid himself in a Thicket of Canes, but being discover’d by his own People, was by them brought before _Gasca_, who the next day after the Battel caus’d him to be Quarter’d alive, and _Pizarro_’s Head to be cut off in Prison; the other Prisoners were most of them kill’d in cold Blood. _Gasca_ thus become absolute Master of _Peru_, found an incredible Treasure left by _Pizarro_, of which he gave to every common Soldier above six thousand _Ducats_; and with this his victorious Army march’d to _Cusco_, where he employ’d his Executioners afresh, in Hanging, Drawing, and the like; some that were stigmatiz’d and condemn’d to the Galleys, accounted themselves happy that they had escap’d so. _Gasca_, though Victor, perceiv’d no small Troubles to threaten him, having twenty five hundred Men in Arms, of which every one for their faithful Service judg’d that they deserv’d some Office or other, there being then above a hundred and fifty to dispose of, _Pizarro_ having Executed the chiefest Officers, and those that bore any Command under him being either fled or kill’d in the last Fight: but the small number of Officers that were wanting, was not to be compar’d to all those that gap’d for Commissions. The Revenues, which yearly amounted to eleven hundred thousand _Ducats_, went most of it away amongst the Officers, the common Soldiers getting onely a small Snip out of it; wherefore many began to murmur, and were upon the point of Mutinying, if _Cianca_, the Judge of criminal Causes, taking the chief of them, had not punish’d them in such a manner, that all the rest being terrifi’d, gave over their Complaints. After _Gasca_ had spent above nine hundred thousand _Ducats_ in the War against _Pizarro_; all which Money he took up upon Interest, which, after having setled the Kingdom in Quietness, he paid for the most part with the Goods taken from the Rebels. Next he made a Law concerning the _Peruvians_ paying of Tribute, which before the _Spaniards_ forc’d from them whensoe’re and howsoe’re they pleas’d, with the greatest Tortures imaginable. [Sidenote: _Peru_ Governed by Vice-Roys.] _Gasca_ having again erected in _Los Reyos_ the high Court of Judicature, in which sat the Imperial Judges, return’d home with an unvaluable Mass of Treasure for _Charles_ the Fifth, and left the _Peruvian_ Government to the Judge _Cianca_; since which time _Peru_ hath been Govern’d by Vice-Roys, the first whereof, who succeeded _Cianca_, was _Antonio Mendoza_, and after him successively _Andreas Hurtado Mendoza_, _Diego Valasco_, _Lopez Garcias de Castro_, _Francisco de Toledo_, _Martin Enriques_, _Garcias Mendoza_, _Ludovico Velasco_, and _Juan Pacheco_, under whom the _Peruvian_ Kingdom hath enjoy’d Peace and Quiet, to the considerable enriching of the _Spanish_ Inhabitants. Thus much of the antient Transactions in _Peru_, it will now be requisite to give you a brief Account of the several Provinces in this mighty Kingdom. [Sidenote: Division of _Peru_.] The Countrey is generally divided into three _Juridicial Resorts_, as they call them, or Courts of Appeal, which are _Quito_, _Lima_, and _Charcas_; but the particular Provinces, as they are commonly observ’d by Geographers, are said to be six, _viz._ 1. _Quito._ 2. _Los Quixos._ 3. _Lima._ 4. _Cusco._ 5. _Charcas._ and 6. _Collao._ SECT. II. Quito. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Quito_.] The first Province of _Peru_ towards the North is _Quito_, or the new Kingdom of _Granada_, with which on that side it is bounded, having on the West, _Mare del Zur_; on the South, _Lima_; and on the East, _Los Quixos_. It lieth in a manner right under the _Line_, and is said to be seventy two Leagues in length, and in some places about twenty five in breadth. The Winter begins here in _October_, and continues till _March_, in which fall mighty Showers, and on the Mountains abundance of Snow, but all the Summer long the Sun is seldom darkned with a Cloud. Many of the Inhabitants die of a Giddiness in the Head about the beginning and end of Summer. The _POX_ also destroys many of the Natives; with which Disease they are often born, and give it to the _Spaniards_, who are not able to abstain from the _Indian_ Women; they use _Sassaparilla_ and the Wood _Guaiacum_ to cure themselves with. Here grow also many poysonous Herbs, which the _Peruvians_ make use of to poyson one another. [Sidenote: The Fruit _Quaba_.] In the farthest parts of _Quito_ grows the salt and cooling Fruit _Quaba_, two Handfuls long, cover’d with a grey Rind, and within full of white Pulp and hard Kernels. [Sidenote: The Tree _Guaiaba_.] The Tree _Guaiaba_ hath a pale smooth Bark, thick Boughs, hard and glittering Leaves, Flowers consisting of five Leaves, not unlike a Peacock’s Plume, long Apples, woolly without, and within full of a pale red Pulp and eatable Stones; the Root, which spreads it self very much, is sweet, and when boyl’d cures the Bloody-flux. This Tree grows in most places, especially in low Grounds, the more because the Kernels which the Birds picking out let fall on the Ground, spring up in new Trees. The _Spanish_ Fruits, as Peaches, Cittrons, Figs, Pomegranates, Pears, Quinces, and Oranges, grow also here in great abundance, but when ripe are subject to rot. Moreover, the Fields abound with Wheat, Barley, and _Maiz_; the Pastures afford plenty of Grass for Oxen, Horses and Sheep, which bring forth Lambs twice in fourteen Moneths. The Ocean and Rivers store of Fish; the Stream _Barbara_ us’d formerly to produce Gold also. In moist Grounds the Inhabitants find abundance of Salt-petre, the best that is for the making of Gun-powder. [Sidenote: The Inns _Tambos_.] For the Accommodation of Travellers, Inns call’d _Tambos_, are built near the High-ways, exactly five Leagues distant one from another, where all sorts of Provisions are sold at a set Price. [Sidenote: The Nature of the People.] The Natives antiently went Cloth’d in a Frock without Sleeves, as wide on the top as at the bottom, and pleited their long Hair. They are strong, well proportion’d in Body, and subtile enough to learn any Art, but treacherous, inconstant, and inclin’d to Drunkenness: They were very hard also to be brought to receive the _Roman_ Religion, so that most of them would not suffer themselves to be Baptiz’d till they lay a dying: They also drove a great Trade in Cotton, Wooll, and Cloth. Between _Pasto_ and _Quito_ are several Villages, and the famous High-way, by the _Ingas_ cut through the Wildernesses and Mountains, the Wall of an old Castle, and the wonderful Stone-Bridge _Lumichaca_, which Nature hath made over the swift River _Guaca_; it consists of a hard Cliff, at the Foot whereof is a great Arch, through which the Water runs with exceeding force. [Illustration] This Tract of Land produces _Maiz_, and abundance of _Mortuanos_, a Fruit resembling Damask Prunes, which eaten in excess cause Drunkenness and Faintness. The Lake _Yaguarcocha_, signifying _Bloody-Water_, because the Inga _Guayanacava_ kill’d and drown’d twenty thousand there. [Sidenote: Towns and Places of chief note.] The chief Towns and Places of Note are, 1. _Caranguez_, antiently a Royal City, where stood a sumptuous and stately Palace of the Kings of _Peru_, now almost deserted. The Palace, built of Stone in a little Plain, without either Mortar or Iron-work, manifests its former glory by its Ruines. 2. The Royal Castle of _Atabalo_, or _Ottavallis_, in the building of which the _Ingas_ spar’d no Cost nor Charges; and indeed it is a Structure no way inferior to any of the antient _Roman_ Edifices. Between this Castle and _Cochequi_, a stately House, lies a cold snowy Mountain. Moreover, the _Spaniards_ have several Habitations along the Way to _Quito_, and especially in the Valley _Annaquito_, where the Vice-Roy _Vela_ lost the Battel fought against _Gonsalvo Pizarro_. 3. _Quito_, commonly call’d _St. Francisco de Quito_. There stood formerly here certain Palaces, built by the _Ingas_, but the City was re-built by the _Spaniards_ at the Foot of a certain Ridge of Mountains, which it hath on the North and North-West side of it, and are said by _Laet_, to cross the whole Countrey of _Peru_ quite over from the South to the North Sea: It was soon after the Building inhabited by five hundred Families of _Spaniards_ at least, besides Natives, and well fortifi’d, and might be thought a Town very well seated in all respects, but for the neighborhood of a Vulcan, which at times annoyeth it very much, as namely in the Year 1560. when it vomited out such abundance of flaming Cinders and other sulphureous Matter, that had it not been for a Shower of Rain unexpectedly falling, would have much damnifi’d, if not destroy’d the Place. The Natives about _Quito_ are more Moraliz’d than other _Peruvians_. The Valleys which are warm’d by the Sun produce all manner of Fruit-Trees and large Vineyards; and the Root _Papas_, not unlike Apples. The _Quimla_, which is of a Mans heighth, hath little Seeds, of which a pleasant Liquor is boyl’d. From _Quito_ the High-way leads to _Cusco_, along which at every four Leagues distance stands a brave Palace; and from _Cusco_ to _Chili_, being in all above a thousand Leagues long. The City, built on a sandy Soyl, is divided in the middle by a Moat, over which lead several Bridges: the Streets are large and streight, and full of handsom Houses, and at the ends of the four chief Streets four Market-places. Besides the Cathedral, are two other Churches, Dedicated to the Saints _Sebastian_ and _Blasius_. The Cloysters of the _Franciscans_ and _Dominicans_ are also no small Ornament to the City. Besides other stately Structures, are the Residences of the Receivers of the Kings Revenues, to which the _Peruvians_ that live about the City, being computed no less than fifty thousand in number, pay Tribute; and to keep them in subjection, the City _Quito_ is always well stor’d with all manner of Ammunition and Instruments of War. The chiefest Trade here consists in Sheep, Goats, and other Cattel, Cotton-Clothes, Cloth, Flax, Hats, Cordage, Sugar and Salt; which Salt, being grey and bitter, springs out of a Fountain in the Countrey _Mira_. The Oyl, Wine, and Drugs which are us’d here, are fetch’d from the South Sea up the River _Ambato_, and from thence with Carts into the City. 4. _Thomebamba_, famous for a Royal Palace, built there by some of the _Ingas_; It lies Southward from _Quito_ in the Province of _Canares_, where two Rivers commix their Waters, near a Plain abounding with Venison. There yet remain considerable Ruines of this Palace, in which one may discern the vast Dimensions of divers Rooms, in some of which Arms were kept, and in others Provisions and Clothes; of which kind of Buildings or Magazines the _Ingas_ had erected above a thousand in _Peru_, especially along the High-way, that they might have their Ammunition ready in all places if need should require. On the left side of _Thomebamba_ appear’d the famous Temple of the Sun, whose Gates were not onely curiously Painted, but also Inlay’d with Emeraulds. Both the Palace and Temple, adorn’d with Gold and costly Images of great Touch-stone and Jasper, contain’d within their Walls an unvaluable Treasure. These magnificent Structures are at this day fall’n quite to decay. The People of this Countrey, who wear long Hair, pleited on the top of their Heads like a Coronet, go Cloth’d in Cotton Coats and Buskins of Hair-cloth. The Women, indifferent fair, and great admirers of the _Spaniards_, Plough, Sowe, and gather in the Harvest, whilest the Men stay at home, Spinning, Weaving, and doing of other Female-Offices. _Anno 1544._ they discover’d Mines here, which produc’d as much Gold as Earth. 5. _Tacunga_, where was formerly another stately Palace, about fifteen Leagues from _Cusco_, not far from the Mountain which some years since vomited Ashes and Stones into the adjacent Fields. Hereabouts was formerly a Cloyster, inhabited by the Nuns call’d _Namaconas_, the Ruines whereof are yet to be seen, with several Houses of Stone, but cover’d with Thatch. The Natives in this Place are of a brown Complexion, and of a very affable Nature. 6. _Mulambato_; 7. _Mocha_; 8. _Rhiobamba_, three small Villages, but each of them credited with a stately Palace. Opposite to _Rhiobamba_ lies the Province _Chumbo_, from which a troublesom Way leads to _Guaynacapa_ over the River _Chongo_. 9. _St. Jago de Puerto Viejo_, giving Denomination to the Territory about it, which produces abundance of _Potatoe_ Roots, _Maiz_, _Juca_, three sorts of _Guayavas_, _Cerezillas_, and the Tree _Tunas_, which bears wild Figs. The _Spanish_ Fruits grow here likewise in great plenty. The fore-mention’d Beasts like Hogs, whose Navels grow on their Backs, are also very common here. The Woods abound with Deer and all sorts of Fowls, amongst which one resembling a Goose, and call’d _Xuta_; and another nam’d _Maca_, somewhat lesser than a Cock, and which feeding about the House, may be reckon’d amongst the Poultrey of this Countrey. The Sea along the Coast affords them abundance of _Bonito_’s, which eaten in some Seasons cause Agues. The People along the Sea-Coast are generally troubled with Pimples and Sores in their Faces, especially on their Foreheads and Noses, few of them living long, by reason of the unhealthfulness of the Place through excessive Moisture, for the Rain continues eight Moneths together. 10. _Manta_, lying upon the Southern Ocean, the chief of the Villages, formerly possess’d by the _Caranes_, betwixt the Promontory _Passao_ and the River _Dable_. These People are said to this day to carve and cut their Faces from their Ears to their Chins; about their Necks and Arms they wear Chains of Gold and little red Corals, call’d _Chaquina_, highly esteem’d by the _Peruvians_. This Town was formerly famous for a great Emerauld, which was religiously worshipp’d there. 11. _Guayaquil_, otherwise call’d _Culata_, built at a deep Inlet of the Sea, near the River _Anebato_, which with great swiftness falls down from the Mountains _Quito_, is surrounded with a fertile Soyl; and in the hollow Trees is found plenty of Honey. The Water of the fore-mention’d River, being of great vertue in curing the _Morbus Gallicus_, hath great resort of People from all places; who likewise gather the _Sarsaparilla_ that grows along the Banks. The Bridge which the Inga _Guaynacava_ began to lay cross this River, is also very remarkable, but he dying, it was left unfinish’d. The _Guancabilcas_ were heretofore under the Jurisdiction of this City _Guayaquil_. 12. _Castro_, so call’d from a strong Fort built there by a _Spanish_ Captain, and situate in the Valley _Vili_, not far from _Guayaquil_. 13. The City _Loxa_, built in the Countrey of the _Paltas_, a People that went naked, between two Arms of the River _Catamayo_ under a wholsom Climate, near the High-way that leads to _Cusco_ in the Valley _Curibamba_, where no poysonous Beast was ever found. The Soil bears abundance of Oaks, Hazles, Ash, Willow, and Cedar-Trees; _Maiz_, Barley, and Wheat. Not far from the City springs a hot and sulphurous Fountain, which cures all sorts of Sores and Wounds. The Countrey hereabouts is likewise stor’d with Fowls, Venison, Cattel, and Fish. Moreover, the City receives no small lustre from two _Dominican_, and one _Franciscan_ Cloyster. Eastward from which lie desolate Mountains, whose tops are continually cover’d with Snow. Not far from hence were formerly two noble Palaces, _Piedras_ and _Tamboblanco_, besides several Villages. 14. _Cuenca_, wherein are also large Structures for the Monks and Priests: The Countrey about the same hath rich Mines of Gold, Silver, Quicksilver, Copper, Iron, and Sulphur. 15. _Zamora_, Eastward from the cold Mountains _Andes_, built in a Marshy Soyl, where the Inhabitants are never visited with Pestilential Distempers, and use no other Physick for such Sicknesses as they are troubled with, than Tobacco, and the Herb _Aquacolla_. But there is a certain Nut that grows hereabouts, which occasions sudden death, if eaten raw, but being boyl’d, is a wholsom Food. The Mines afford great pieces of Gold, of which one weighing eighteen Pound, was presented to _Philip_ the Second, King of _Spain_. The briny Springs produce good Salt. Three Rivers falling from the Mountains, are noted for their Golden Sands, and also afford delicious Fish. The Bees being here void of Stings, furnish the Inhabitants with plenty of Honey. The Tygers and little Lyons devour many of the Sheep _Pacos_, Goats, Hogs, and other Cattel, and sometimes the Natives themselves. The City it self is neatly built with Woodden and Stone Houses, and adorn’d with a Church and _Dominican_ Cloyster, besides a stately Palace, the Residence for the King’s Receiver. The Natives about this Place are a stupid and barbarous People, which before the _Spaniards_ coming thither, would for a small trifle kill one another. [Illustration: EXPUGNATIO PAYTÆ] 16. The City _Yaen_, situate in the Countrey _Chuiquimayo_; it is so call’d from a swift River, cross which the _Peruvian_ Women and Children swim, to the great amazement of the _Spaniards_. They paint their Bodies black with the Juice of the Root _Yaguas_, and feed for the most part on the stamp’d Plant _Yaca_. On the other side of the Mountain, which rises on the Banks of _Chuquimayo_, lies the Countrey _Perico_, fruitful and well inhabited, against which juts the Golden Countrey _Cherinos_. _Peru_ hath also several delightful Valleys, amongst which on the North the chiefest are the _Tumbez_, _Solana_, _Poechos_, and _Piura_, all of them very fertile, full of stately Buildings, and water’d by several Rivers. 17. _San Miguel_, the first City that was built by the _Spaniards_ in _Peru_, situate in a sandy and dry Soyl, being extraordinary dusty in Summer, and very slabby in the Winter, because the hard Ground cannot soak up the Rain. The _Ingas_ made a Way through this Valley fifteen Foot broad, between two Walls, and Planted Trees on each side. [Sidenote: _Spilbergen_’s Attempt upon _Payta_.] 18. Westward from _Miguel_ appears _Payta_, near a convenient Haven in the South-Sea, which _Anno 1547._ was burnt by _Thomas Candish_; since which it had been re-built twenty eight years, when _Joris Spilbergen_, after a hard Engagement with the _Spanish_ Admiral _Rodrigo Mendoza_, arriving in the large Haven before _Payta_, sent eight Sail with three hundred Armed Men up to the City, where finding the Enemy Encamp’d along the Shore, he return’d without any effect; but two of his Frigats, the _Eolus_ and the _Morning-Star_, running close to _Payta_, fir’d whole Broad-sides at the same, whilest Captain _De Wit_ took a _Peruvian_ Fisher-man, who had been two Moneths out at Sea, and taken abundance of Fish. The Guns which the Ships fir’d upon the Town struck such a terror into the Citizens, that they fled with Bag and Baggage into the Mountains, and left the City for a Prize to _Spilbergen_, who setting fire on the same, in few hours burnt down two Churches, a _Dominican_ Cloyster, and several Alms-houses: But had not the Citizens been cowardly, they might easily have kept off the _Hollanders_; for the Vice-Roy _Ludovico Velasco_ inform’d of _Spilbergen_’s Arrival, had stor’d the Place with Ammunition and Men, whose Courage failing, prov’d successful for the _Hollanders_, who whilest they Rid here at an Anchor, took a very strange Bird on the Island _Lobos_, lying before _Payta_, being two Yards high and three thick, in its Bill, Wings, and Claws resembling an Eagle, and having a large Crest on its Head. Not long after _Donna Paula_ being Governess of _Payta_, a Lady famous in _Peru_ for her Beauty and obliging Nature, sent Cabbages, Oranges, Cittrons, and other Provisions to the _Hollanders_, and requested the Releasement of some of the _Spaniards_ taken in the Engagement against _Mendoza_, but could not obtain her Request from the uncourtly _Dutchmen_. SECT. III. Los Quixos. [Sidenote: Description of _Los Quixos_.] The Province of _Los Quixos_ lieth South, and to the South-East of _Quito_, being border’d more directly Eastward with a part of the Province of _Guiana_, call’d by some _El Dorada_, or _The Golden Countrey_; on the South it hath _Lima_ and _Cusco_. [Sidenote: The _Canela_-Fruit.] This Province is subdivided into several lesser Territories, _viz._ _Canela_, _Pacomores_, and _St. Juan de Salinas_. _Canela_ is so call’d, because it hath many great Woods, which produce the Fruit _Canela_ in great abundance, the Owners whereof were most inhumanely dealt with by the _Spaniards_; for _Gonsalvo Pizarro_ supposing to get store of Gold there, found nothing but Trees, bearing a Fruit like Olives, by the Natives call’d _Canela_, with which they us’d to drive a great Trade, being otherwise poor and simple People, living in Huts, which _Pizarro_ pulling down, caus’d the Inhabitants to be torn in pieces by his Dogs, because they could not furnish him with Gold, nor direct him where it was to be had. [Sidenote: The _Granadilla_-Apple.] Besides the _Canela_-Tree, this Countrey also produceth in great plenty the Tree which beareth the Apples _Granadilla_, exceeding good against burning Feavers; the Leaves are like Ivy, the Blossom resembling the Sun, and the long Leaves speckled with Red and White, open three hours after Sun-rising, and close again before the Evening, just as if Nature took care to preserve the beauty of the Flower. [Sidenote: Towns and Places of chief note.] In this part of the Province the chief are, 1. _Baeza_, otherwise call’d _Quixos_, built in the Year 1559. by _Ramires de Avila_, eighteen Leagues from _Cusco_. 2. _Archidona_, twenty Leagues to the South-East of _Baeza_. 3. _Avila._ 4. _Sevilla del Oro_, all of them _Spanish_ Colonies. The Territories _Pacomores_ and _Yguansongo_, otherwise call’d _The Countrey of Juan de Salinas_, are said both to extend above a hundred Leagues in length, and little less in breadth. The Fields afford store of Pasture for Cattel, the Plough’d Lands produce Wheat and all sorts of wholsom Herbs; and in some places are also rich Gold-Mines. The Governor _Layola_ built four Towns here, _viz._ 1. _Valladolid_; 2. _Loyola_; 3. _San Jago de los Montanas_; and 4. _Caruma_. The Jesuit _Acosta_ relates, That not far from _Caruma_ he found great Stones, some of which were full of Golden Veins, but were hard to be cut from the Rock. Most of the Gold is found in the Sand of several Rivers, the chiefest whereof flow through _Quito_, _New Granada_, _Valdivia_ in _Chili_, and _Caravaya_ in _Peru_. On the Point of _Quito_, the River _San Jago_ falls into the Southern Ocean; the Ground in the Mouth of the River being very uneven, for oftentimes the Ships are fast aground at the Stern, and on Head they have above eighty Fathom Water; yet nevertheless the Shoals are no ways dangerous. South-West from _St. Jago_ lies the spacious Inlet _Mattheo_, and the Promontory _Francisco_, known by its Banks and high Grounds, which shew red and white at a great distance. Not far from hence, exactly under the _Equinox_, appears _Cape Passao_, flat and low; between which and _Mattheo_, the great Rivers _Los Quiximes_ fall into the Sea. Behind _Passao_ rises the high Mountain _Quaque_; and more Westerly the Bay _Caraques_ affords a secure Harbor for all manner of Vessels. Next you come to the Town _Puerto Viejo_ before mention’d, lying behind the Island _Laurenso_. Five Leagues off at Sea, before _Laurenzo_, lies the Island _Plata_, formerly famous for a _Peruvian_ Temple, in which the Natives Sacrifis’d Sheep, and sometimes Children, and painted the Figures of divers Persons with the Blood; to which they also Offer’d Jewels, Gold, Silver, Wooll, Cotton Shirts, and Cloaks. _Francisco Pizarro_ arriving here, got an invaluable Mass of Treasure; but at present it lying desolate, affords nothing but Brambles and wild Trees. The next which come in view are the Havens _Callo_ and _Zalango_, where there are safe Harbors, good Wood and Water. The Cape of _St. Helena_ makes also a secure Road on the North, and on its Shore hath a Spring, on the top of whose Waters swims a certain Gum, by the Natives call’d _Copey_, exceeding good to make Ships tight. The River _Tumbez_ falls into a large Bay, which on its North-East Point near the Main Land, hath the Island _Puna_, ten Leagues in circumference: The Soyl whereof produces abundance of _Maiz_, _Fuca_, and other good Roots, besides great Woods full of fruitful Trees, and _Sarsaparilla_. The Inhabitants of a brown Complexion, and middle Stature, wear Cotton Cloaks, and Chains of _Chaquira_ and Precious Stones: They drive a great Trade, and formerly maintain’d Wars with the People inhabiting upon the River _Tumbez_; their great want is fresh Water in the Summer. _Thomas Candish_ Landing here _Anno 1587._ found a Ship hal’d ashore, and three Villages, in one of which stood a Palace belonging to a _Casique_, surrounded with Stone Galleries; and near it a large Store-house full of Tar-pots and Hemp to make Cables of: The Village consisted of two hundred Houses, and a fair Church with a Steeple, in which hung several Bells. The _Casique_ Married to a _Spanish_ Woman being fled with the Villagers, _Candish_ took many Oxen, fat Sheep, Pigeons and Ducks, the Bells, and what else was not convey’d aboard, with him, and, afterwards burnt the whole Town; but whilest he was busie in making havock, a thousand _Spaniards_, and a considerable number of _Peruvians_ fell upon the _English_ on such a sudden, that they kill’d some, and took others Prisoners. Somewhat farther off at Sea appears the Isle _Clara_, where those of _Puna_ formerly buried their Dead. The Inlet into which falls the River _Tumbez_, whose Shores are well inhabited, ends Westward at the Promontory _Blanco_; Southward from which lies the Isle _Lobos_, where there are several Springs full of the same Gum, or _Bitumen_, a little above mention’d. Beyond the Point _Agua_ lie the two Isles _Lobos Marinos_, opposite to a low Coast; they are desolate, and barren of Grass, Trees, and all kind of Herbs, and destitute of fresh Water; but many Pelicans, Penguins, and other strange Birds. The discovering of these Coasts belonging to the Jurisdiction of _Quito_, deserves a short Relation: [Sidenote: _Bevalcazar_ overcoming _Ruminagua_, takes _Quito_.] [Sidenote: He comes to an Agreement with _Alvarado_.] [Sidenote: _Pizarro_ and his Army driven to great Straights.] [Sidenote: _Orellana_ cross’d in his Designs, dies for grief.] [Sidenote: The miserable Condition of _Pizarro_’s Men.] [Sidenote: _Quito_ very much defac’d by siding with _Vela_ against _Gonsalvo Pizarro_.] Whilest _Pizarro_ kept the Inga _Attabaliba_ Prisoner, he sent Captain _Bevalcazar_ to the new Fort _St. Miguel_, where eighty Horse and a hundred Foot being arriv’d from _Panama_ and _Nicaragua_, and he being inform’d that there lay a great Treasure in _Quito_, and that the _Canares_, the _Spaniards_ Friends, were exceedingly oppress’d by _Ruminagua_, _Attabaliba_’s General, immediately march’d thither with the new arriv’d Forces before mention’d, to fetch the Booty, and to assist the _Canares_; but several things oppos’d him in his Design: for _Ruminagua_ guarded the Way with twelve hundred _Indians_, digg’d Pits in the same, and filling them with sharp Poles, cover’d them slightly over with Canes and Earth; all which _Bevalcazar_ shunning, went about, fell in upon the Rere of the Enemy, and after a small Resistance conquer’d the City _Quito_. Mean while _Ferdinand Cortesio_ sent _Petro Alvarado_ from _New Spain_, who taking _Guatimala_, receiv’d a Commission from the _Spanish_ Court, to subdue the Northern parts of _Peru_. Soon after which _Garcias Holgua_ being sent with two Ships to enquire concerning the State of _Peru_, brought News back, That _Francisco Pizarro_ had gotten an unvaluable Treasure at _Caxamalca_; which so stirr’d up _Alvarado_, that he Landed five hundred Men at _Puerto Viejo_, march’d in great want of Provisions over the Mountains _Acabucos_, and had he not accidentally found a Pond of sweet Water in a Thicket of Canes, both Men and Horses had all perish’d; at last upon his approaching _Quito_, the Governor thereof, being _Bevalcazar_, not enduring to suffer an Equal, drew up all his Men in Battel array; but some Persons interceding between them, they were soon reconcil’d, and _Alvarado_ being bought out with a great sum of Money, deserted _Quito_; where after _Gonsalvo Pizarro_, had remain’d a considerable time he march’d Eastward of the Province, which produces abundance of Cinamon; whither he was accompanied by two hundred _Spaniards_ and four thousand _Peruvians_; against whom the Natives dwelling on the Borders of _Los Quixos_ fought very valiantly, till Night approaching, when they all ran away; after which resting a while, there arose a mighty Tempest of Thunder and Lightning, accompanied with a dreadful Earthquake, which swallow’d above five hundred Houses, whole Woods and Fields, whilest an unknown River burst out of the Earth, and overflow’d all the Countrey, insomuch that _Pizarro_ expected nothing but a speedy Ruine, in regard no Provisions were to be found in all the Countrey: at last getting on the top of the nearest Mountain he lost many of his Men, who were frozen to death with excessive Cold. From thence marching to the County _Zumaque_, he got plenty of Provision and Cinamon, which grows on great Trees in the Woods; the Leaves thereof resemble the Laurel; the Fruit grows in little Berries; the Root and Bark have a strong odoriferous smell. Thence travelling to the Town _Coca_, he found a mighty Cataract of Water, falling from a Rock above fifteen hundred Ells high; insomuch that the noise in calm Weather was heard six Leagues off. _Pizarro_ leaving his sick People in _Zumaque_, went onely with a few Eastward from _Coca_ to the Plain Countrey _Guema_, full of Moorish Grounds, the Inhabitants whereof went naked: at last he came to the great River _Maranon_, which falls from the Mountains near _Quito_, and extends with several windings above eight hundred Leagues in length, and at the Mouth thereof is fifteen Leagues broad, which at that time overflowing all the Countrey, he judg’d it convenient to build a Brigantine, making the Shoes of the dead Horses serve for Iron-work, his Mens Shirts for Sails, and a Gum, which was to be had there, for Tar, and having Lanch’d their Vessel, and put all their Baggage and sick People into the same, they Sail’d close along the Shore, on which _Pizarro_ made his Way through Brambles and Canes, or went over in the Brigantine whensoe’re he espy’d a better Path on the other side; in which manner they were gone two hundred Leagues down the River, with no other Food but wild Fruit and Roots; when Captain _Franciscus Orellana_, was order’d to Sail away before with five Men, and seek out for Provisions, and at every Stream which fell cross-ways out of the Countrey into the great River, he was to leave a Mann’d Boat: but _Orellana_ in few days drove down so far with the swift River, that he saw no likelihood of getting up again in a whole year, neither could he find any Provisions, but fought daily with the _Indians_, who came stoutly to Board him in little Boats: amongst whom he was inform’d also, that thereabouts liv’d the _Amazon_ Women, that Warr’d continually against their Neighbors; and at last he came into the Northern Ocean. But _Orellana_ Sailing to _Spain_, obtain’d a Commission to be Governor of the _Amazons_ Countrey, whither he steer’d his Course with five hundred Men in three Ships; but Landing at the _Canaries_ they all ran away from him, which so incens’d _Orellana_, that he soon after dy’d with Grief. Mean while _Pizarro_ inform’d by a _Spaniard_ whom _Orellana_ had put ashore, that the Brigantine was by the strong Current carried into the Ocean, knew not what to do, his People since their departure from _Quito_ having travell’d above four hundred Leagues, had eaten most of their Horses: Many dy’d by feeding on unwholsom Herbs; others fell down dead for Hunger, or tir’d out with toilsom Travel; their Clothes, rotted by the Rain, hung upon them like Rags, their Shoes were worn out, their Feet full of Blisters, their Bodies sadly mangled with Brambles and Thorns, for no place afforded them a Boat. _Pizarro_ leaving the River _Maranon_, went another Way, no less troublesom for steep Rocks and inaccessible Mountains. The Valleys through which they went, began now to be strew’d with dead and sick Bodies, who were not able to follow the Army, which march’d very fast, every one judging to be so much nearer his preservation the farther he could get: Those that fainted call’d continually on their Friends for help, but the Horses were grown too weak to carry them: Every one saw nothing but Death before his Eyes; wherefore, though call’d by their dearest and most intimate Friends that lay a dying, they never look’d back, their compassion towards others being turn’d into fear and care of themselves. The Forsaken implor’d their Saints, and besought _Pizarro_ for aid, but finding their Complaints to be in vain, and raging through despair, they wish’d all the rest the same success, and the like Friends, whenever they should be in the like Condition. _Pizarro_ extreamly griev’d and troubled, that he had brought the People into this Misery, sent a few Horsemen before to _Quito_, to carry the sad News of his deplorable Condition, that they might immediately send Provisions to him; which he receiving when he was within fifty Leagues from the said City _Quito_, distributed amongst those that were left alive, who being also almost starv’d, eat so greedily, that several of them were chok’d; the remainder were kept a considerable time in Garrison under the Command of _Pizarro_ in _Quito_. Which City, built in a pleasant place, grew very populous in the Year 1544. there being several Gold-Mines found about the same in that time. But this lasted not long, for _Quito_ siding with the Vice-Roy _Blasco Nunnez Vela_ against _Gonsalvo Pizarro_, most of the Citizens were destroy’d by him, and their Houses burnt to Ashes. The like Destruction, and upon the same occasion, befel the three Villages in the Province _Bracomoros_, discover’d by _Juan Parzel_ and Captain _Vergara_, together with the Countrey _Chichiapoios_, where _Alphonso Alvarado_ built the Town _Levanto_, surrounded with deep Caverns, through which, to the great strengthning of the City, flow several Rivers. Round about _Puerto Viejo_ the Natives dwelt in Trees, whom the _Spaniards_ had much ado to bring under their subjection; for their Countrey being barren and mountainous, was not onely wanting in Provisions to feed an Army, but the _Peruvians_ also threw great Stones out of their Huts built in Trees, and likewise Javelins and Pots full of boyling Water, with which they did much mischief to their Enemies that Storm’d them, who at last covering themselves with Boards, cut down the Trees, with which they falling were torn in pieces by the _Spanish_ Dogs. SECT. IV. Lima. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of the Province of _Lima_.] _Lima_, call’d also _Los Reyos_, hath on the East, _Collao_, and some part of _Cusco_; on the North, _Los Quixos_; and on the South, _Charcas_. The Countrey extendeth it self in length upon the Coasts of the South Sea two hundred and fifty, some say, full three hundred Leagues in length, _viz._ from _Cape del Aguia_ Northward, on the Borders of _Quito_ as far as _Arequipa_ towards the South, and runs Eastward to _Brasile_ and _Rio de la Palma_. [Sidenote: The several Valleys of this Province.] In this Province are several very pleasant Valleys, the first whereof is _Motupe_, to which a sandy Way leads from _St. Miguel de Valverde_, between barren Wilds, from whence several Streams falling are immediately drunk up by the Sand; wherefore all Travellers that go that way carry Water and Wine with them in _Calabashes_ for twenty Leagues together, which they Walk or Ride by Night, because of the excessive heat of the Sun. In the Valley _Motupe_ grow abundance of Trees, which receive nourishment from a River that springs up near the same. Here is also much Cotton. Not far from hence are the Valleys _Xayanca_, formerly very populous and full of Palaces: The River which flows through the middle is led in Trenches amongst the neighboring Fields. The Valley _Tuqueme_ is also very pleasant, and the decay’d Palaces, sufficiently testifie its former splendor. The next being _Cinto_, is no way inferior to _Tuqueme_; and between both lie sandy Hills and barren Rocks, on which grow neither Trees nor Herbs, nor is any living Creature to be found upon them: the Way through which being a whole days Journey, cannot be travell’d without sure Guides. The Valley _Collique_, water’d by a River of the same Denomination, and very thick set with Trees, was formerly very populous, but since the _Spanish_ Wars it is become quite desolate; for not onely a considerable number of them were slain by the _Spaniards_, but also many destroy’d themselves, Wives and Children; of which _Peter Martyr_, Councellor to the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth, sets down several terrible Examples, of which two were remarkable above the rest; the first was after this manner: [Sidenote: Two tragical Passages.] The _Spanish_ Captain _Olandus_ Lying with the Daughter of an _Indian Casique_, question’d when she grew big with Child, Whether she was with Child by him? and that he might know the real truth by Torture, he caus’d her to be ty’d naked to a woodden Spit, and laid to roast against a Fire made of green Wood, so that she died in a most miserable manner; upon which her Father ran in a rage with thirty of his Companions to _Olandus_’s House, where he kill’d his whole Family, and locking all the Doors about the House, set fire on the same, into which when it was at its greatest heighth, he and his Associates leap’d into the middle thereof. The second Accident is also very terrible, _viz._ An _Indian_ Maid being Got with Child by a _Spanish_ Ass-driver, acquainted her Father and Mother with it, withal telling them that she was ready to suffer Death for her Offence; and notwithstanding they freely pardoning, and perswading her to the contrary, she eat raw _Juca_, which when boyl’d is a wholsom Food, but if eaten raw, certain though languishing Death; which she perceiving, ran to the next River, where after having wash’d her self, she broke off from a large Tree a Bough of five Foot long, and making the end thereof very sharp, fell upon the same, and so kill’d her self. Several other Ravish’d Maids taking example hereby, hang’d themselves upon the Boughs of the same Tree. But to proceed in our Description, next to _Collique_ lies the Valley _Zana_, of the like bigness, and famous for the City _Miraflores_. The next is _Pascayamo_, which exceeds all the former in fruitfulness, and populousness of Inhabitants, who before they were destroy’d by the _Ingas_ were much fear’d by their Neighbors. This Valley also was adorn’d with several fair Temples, which are now turn’d into Cloysters. Cattel, Hogs, and Goats breed here in very great numbers. The chief Trade of this Place consists in Cotton and Linnen. The Valley _Chacama_, in which the _Dominican_ Monks inhabit a brave Cloyster, produces abundance of Sugar. Four Leagues farther lies the spacious Valley _Chimo_, so call’d from an old _Peruvian_ Heroe, which affords a pleasant Prospect, by reason of the many Banquetting-houses built there by the _Ingas_. No place in _Peru_ is able to stand in competition with this for plenty of Provisions, the Ocean and Rivers producing store of Fish, the Countrey affording Cattel and all manner of Fruit. The Cotton which grows here is Shipp’d to the South Sea. _Chanca_ is a Valley chiefly considerable for the Town _Arnedo_, which is situate therein, of which more hereafter. But the Valley _Guanape_, not far from _Chanca_, yields the best _Peruvian_ Liquor _Chica_, and hath a convenient Harbor for Ships. The Plain _Santa_ being overflow’d in the Winter, is all overgrown for want of Inhabitants, who were all destroy’d by the _Spaniards_. The Woods hereabouts swarm with a sort of venomous Bug, which exceedingly torments the Traveller. [Sidenote: _Spilbergen_’s Attempt.] Next follow in order the Valleys _Guambaico_, very fruitful, and _Guarney_, abounding with Horses, Hogs, and other Cattel. _Joris Spilbergen_ Landing here _Anno 1615._ found the Haven secure against all Winds, and between the Shore and the Village _Guarmey_ a Creek, and somewhat farther a fresh-Water Pool; on one side of which stood a decay’d Castle built of square Stone, whereon the _Hollanders_ set the _States_ Flag, and Garrison’d the same to secure those that fetch’d Water out of the foremention’d Pool. In the aforesaid Village stood a Church with a spiry Steeple; behind which rose high Mountains, and at the Foot thereof a great Wood, into which the Inhabitants fled with all their Goods, so that _Spilbergen_ found nothing but a little Meal, a few Hens, Hogs, and Oranges in their Houses, which whilest he was sending Aboard, a small Body of Horse appear’d, but immediately fled into the Woods. The _Hollanders_ staying here seven days, were inform’d, that the Galley _Jesu Maria_, Commanded by the Admiral _Rodrigo Mendoza_, and the _Santa Anna_, by the Vice-Admiral _Peter Alvares Piger_, were both lost, not one Man being sav’d. Not far from thence lies the Valley _Parmonga_, which though it be fruitful and pleasant, yet it is quite desolate; the Walls of a large Castle still appear, as testimonies of its being formerly inhabited; and within the said Walls also are still to be seen the Ruines of spacious Halls and fair Chambers, whose Walls are painted with wild Beasts and Birds: The _Spaniards_ have digg’d all about, and undermin’d the same, in hopes to find, together with the several dead Bodies, a Treasure buried. Two Leagues Southward from this Valley _Parmonga_ flows the River, _Guayman_, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Rio del Falcon_, from a Hawk which was seen there. When any store of Rain falls here, a great part of the Dale _Barrana_ lies under Water. [Illustration: GUARME] [Sidenote: Strange manner of Hunting.] Not far from hence lie the Valleys _Gaura_ and _Lima_; which last exceeds all others in bigness, and was formerly exceeding populous; but since the Marquess _Pizarro_ built the City _Los Reyos_ here, the Citizens have taken the Lands from the _Peruvians_. The Mines hereabouts produce Gold and Silver. Amongst other things the Inhabitants highly esteem an Herb bearing yellow Flowers, which in a short time cures a putrifi’d Wound, whereas if laid on sound Flesh it eats the same to the Bone. The Natives heretofore us’d to spend their time in Hunting, and caught their Game after this manner, _viz._ three or four thousand of them would meet together, and by taking Hands make a Ring of three or four Miles in circumference, and at a certain Note or Tune Sung, or loudly Exclaim’d, they drew nearer and nearer, till at last they were within Shot of the inclosed Game, whatsoever it were. [Sidenote: A vast Treasure found by _Ferdinando Pizarro_.] The Countrey of _Collao_ hath a low Point, from which a long Cliff runs into the Sea, towards the small Island call’d _Isla de Collao_: On each side of the Point the Coast runs sloaping in, the one side extending North-West from _Collao_, to the Cliffs _Piscadores_; the other South-East to the second Promontory; behind which is a large Bay, where the Valley _Pachacama_ appears, famous for its exceeding fruitfulness, and a stately Temple built by the _Ingas_, where _Ferdinando Pizarro_ found above nine hundred thousand _Ducats_, besides what the Soldiers and Commanders took, and what the Priests had hid, which none, though miserably tortur’d, would confess. Opposite to _Pachacama_ lies the Valley _Chilca_, where it never Rains, nor any Brook or Spring moistens the dry Soil, which nevertheless produces _Maiz_ and Fruit-Trees. The Natives us’d to dig large and deep Pits, in which they Sow’d and Planted, and at every Root laid the Head of a Fish call’d a _Sardin_, which they caught in Nets on the Sea-shore; wherein nevertheless nothing would have grown, but for the Morning Dews which fell. The _Ingas_ also had curious Banquetting-houses here. In these Parts there grows a sort of Tree call’d _Mala_, of which _Acosta_ relates a strange Wonder of Nature, very remarkable, _viz._ That it flourishes and bears Fruit on that side which beholds the South, in that Season when it is Summer on the Mountains; the other which views the Sea, Blossoming and bearing Fruit when it is Summer on the Plains. The Valley _Guarco_, spacious and full of Trees, produces especially the pleasant Fruit _Guayaves_ and _Guavas_, as also the best Wheat in _Peru_; wherefore it is vended all over the Countrey. Here are also the Ruines of another stately Castle, built by the _Ingas_, the former lustre whereof is testifi’d by its remaining Walls, which consist of exceeding great Stones, so neatly joyn’d together without Mortar, that it appears like one entire Stone; and by the decay’d Structures of several Halls, much of the curious Painting whereof is yet to be seen; from the Castle a large pair of Stairs led down to the Sea-shore. Two Leagues farther the River _Lunagun_ runs through the fertile Valley of the same Denomination. The fatness of this Soil is chiefly ascrib’d to the Dung of a Fowl call’d _Guana_, which the Natives fetch in great abundance from the Isles near the Main. Next follows the Valley _Chinca_, one of the biggest in all _Peru_, and before the _Spaniards_ Arrival very populous. In the time of the _Ingas_ it also shew’d a magnificent Temple Dedicated to the Sun, built by _Tepaja Jupangue_; yet the Inhabitants still remain’d constant in the worshipping of their old Idol _Cinciapema_. Hither the _Ingas_ sent their conquer’d Princes, who on a certain time were to appear in _Cusco_. The _Dominicans_ at present possess here a neat Cloyster, from whence leads a plain Road to the Dale _Ica_, water’d by the River _Pisco_, which is dry in Summer; wherefore the Natives brought a Ditch from the Mountains, which since the _Spaniards_ destroying the Inhabitants, is choak’d up with Sand. Next the Valley _Nasca_ comes in view, famous for the Castle _Caxamalca_, where the _Ingas_ kept all manner of Ammunition for War, besides several Tombs, out of which the _Spaniards_ took great Riches. This Valley is divided into several others, which for the most part produce Sugar-Canes; and through them all runs the Royal High-way, which is Wall’d in on both sides. Beyond _Nasca_ lie one behind another the Valleys _Hacari_, _Oconna_, _Camana_, and _Quilca_, all of them affording good Pasture for Cattel, and Fruit, yet are most of them desolate. The County _Los Motilonos_, thinly inhabited for want of Provisions, and divided by two Rivers, separates _Moyobamba_ from the Countrey _Charasmal_. Southward beyond _Caxamalca_ appear the Countreys _Guamachuco_, and a little farther _Conchucos_ and _Piscobamba_, all fruitful and pleasant, and adorn’d with several Structures built by the _Ingas_. On the side of _Piscobamba_ the County _Guaraz_ extends it self over barren Mountains, through which the _Ingas_ cut a Royal High-way, and built a strong Castle at the Entrance into the Countrey; the Inhabitants whereof being very laborious, work very diligently in the Gold-Mines. The Territory _Pincos_, water’d by a River, and famous for one of the stateliest of the _Peruvian_ Structures, is surrounded by the Countreys _Guayalcas_, _Turama_, _Bomba_, and _Conchucos_. The Mountains, though dangerous to Travellers by Lyons, great Bears, and other ravenous Beasts, afford abundance of Silver; and the fruitful Soil produces Wheat, _Maiz_, Grapes, Figs, Oranges, Quinces, Cittrons, Cedars, and; likewise feeds Goats, Horses, and other Cattel. The Countrey _Viticos_, being within the Jurisdiction of _Guanuco_, lies amongst the Mountains _Andes_, whether _Inga Mango_ fled, when the _Spaniards_ made themselves Masters of _Peru_. [Sidenote: Chief Towns and Places of note.] The Towns and Places most observable and important in it belonging to the _Spaniards_, are 1. _Miraflores_, as the _Spaniards_ call it, a well seated and wealthy Town in the Valley of _Zanu_, as above mention’d, five Leagues distant from the Sea, where it hath likewise a good Haven or Port. 2. _Truxillo_, two or three Leagues distant from the Sea; the Haven whereof is said to be large, but not safe. The Town it self is seated in the Valley _Chinco_, upon the Banks of a pleasant River, whose Water doth not onely run through several Channels to moisten the Fields, but also to accommodate every House in the City: It hath broad Streets, a great Market-place, four Cloysters, two for the _Dominicans_, one for the _Augustines_, and the other for the _Franciscans_; one great Church, five hundred Houses, and a Palace, inhabited by the King’s Collectors, and many Banquetting-houses about it. The good situation and fruitfulness of the Soil, mov’d the Marquess _Francisco Pizarro_ to build this City here _Anno 1533._ but the Haven belonging to the same lies open to all manner of Winds, so that the Ships Ride here in great danger. 3. _La Parilla_, otherwise call’d _Santa_, fourteen Leagues beyond _Truxillo_ Southward, wash’d by the Southern Ocean, and one side by a fresh-water Stream, which being inclos’d between stony Cliffs, makes a secure Harbor. 4. _Arnedo_, seated ten Leagues Northward from _Lima_, amongst the Vineyards of the Valley _Chancas_; otherwise having no great matter in it remarkable, but a fair _Dominican_ Cloyster. [Sidenote: Prizes taken here by Sir _Fran. Drake_.] [Sidenote: _Spilbergen_ attempts the Place in vain.] 5. _Lima_, by the _Spaniards_ commonly call’d _La Cividad de los Reyes_, or _The City of Kings_, so nam’d because _Pizarro_, who built it, laid the first Stone on _Twelfth-day, Anno 1553._ which they call _The Feast of the Kings_: It is seated in the Valley of _Lima_, (from whence the City is also so denominated) one of the fruitfullest Parts of all _Peru_, and so neatly built, that all the chief Streets of the City open upon a fair Market-place, or _Piazza_, of such a large Square, that upon the sides thereof are built, in a stately and convenient manner, the Cathedral, the Palace of the Archbishop, the Vice-Roy’s Palace and Courts of Justice, with the Exchequer or Publick Treasury, the Town-house or place where the City Magistrates meet and hold their Courts, the Publick Armory or Magazine, and a Free-School, wherein are taught by the _Jesuits_ all Arts and Sciences, and also the _Indian_ Language, and divers other fair Buildings of the Nobility and better sort of Citizens. No Countrey under the Heavens affords a more fruitful or pleasanter Place than this; the temperate Climate neither troubling the Inhabitants with excessive Heats or great Colds, nor terrifying them with Thunder or Lightning, but having almost perpetual Sun-shine and fair Weather; onely the three Winter Moneths, wherein there falls a sweet-smelling Dew, which cures the Head-ache; and there die but very few of pestilential Distempers. The Countrey about the City is pleasant without exception. The Pigeons which are kept here in curious Houses built on purpose, flie a thousand in a Flight. The Fields abound also with Cattel. The Orchards and Gardens flourish with all sorts of Trees and Plants, whereof those that are brought hither from _Spain_ grow better than in their natural Countrey. The West side of the City is wash’d by a pure & clear Stream, which stores the Market with great plenty of good Fish, it being distant but a Musquet shot, especially when the Water rises. This River is of great consequence, for it not onely waters the whole Valley of _Lima_ with its several Branches, but also runs under every House in the City, being built on Stone Arches; they are onely one Story high, because there is no Wood to be had in the Valley of _Lima_ but what in three years becomes all Woorm-eaten; nevertheless the Houses are very beautiful both within and without; the Walls being very thick and strong, have curious Arbors of green Boughs on the top, in which the Owners shade themselves from the Sun. Most of the Houses built in the high Streets have pleasant Turrets, which face the Market-place, where all sorts of Provisions are brought to Sale, as Oxen, Sheep, Venison, Sugar, Oranges, Cittrons, Grapes, and Wheat, which is ground in Water-Mills built near the River. This City is inhabited by many able Merchants, which often load Ships to _Panama_, that are valu’d at above two hundred thousand _Ducats_. To the Arch-bishop’s See of this Place belongs the Bishopricks of _Chili_, _Charcas_, _Quito_, _Cusco_, _Truxillo_, _Guanuco_, _Popaian_, _San Francisco_, _Panama_, _Nicaragua_, and _Rio de la Plata_. The City is also adorn’d with two fair Churches, besides the Cathedral, and also other lesser Churches, four stately Cloysters, two Nunneries, and the _Jesuits_ Palace, which is very magnificent. The Haven two Leagues distant from it, and call’d _Callao de Lima_, is large and secure for Ships. _Anno 1579._ Sir _Francis Drake_ took twelve Ships from hence, one whereof was laden with Linnen and Silk, besides a great Chest full of Silver: Which Inconvenience to prevent for the future, the _Spaniards_ have built two strong Forts, and fortifi’d them with Brass Guns. Thirty years after Sir _Francis Drake_’s Exploit, _Joris Spilbergen_ coming to Anchor here, found the Place all inhabited, a Fort well stor’d with Guns, and a strong Castle before the Mouth of the Harbor, from whence they shot Bullets of thirty six Pound weight at the _Hollanders_, and so shatter’d their Frigat, call’d _The Hunter_, that she could scarce keep above Water: Fourteen _Spanish_ Merchant-men lying near the Shore, receiv’d little damage, _Spilbergen_ not being able for Shelves to get to them, neither did he judge it convenient to Land, the Vice-Roy having at that time above four thousand Men in Arms, besides several Troops of Horse; wherefore after having fir’d several Guns on the Fort, and against the Church, he set Sail to _Guarmey_. 6. _Cannete_, otherwise call’d _Guarco_, from the Valley wherein it is situate: It was built by the _Spaniards_ out of the Treasure which they found in the Castle afore spoken of in the same Valley. 7. _Valverde_, situate in a Valley of the same Name, where excellent Fruit may be had for a small Price; it is a well Traded and rich Town, about sixteen Leagues distant from the Sea. 8. _Pachacama_, situate in a Territory of the same Name, four Leagues Southward of _Lima_, memorable chiefly for _Pizarro_’s good fortune here, who is reported to have found in one onely old Temple of the Natives, the quantity of nine hundred thousand _Ducats_ of Gold and Silver, besides what his Soldiers are suppos’d to have seiz’d on, and convey’d away before he came. 9. _Castro Verreina_, threescore Leagues distant from _Lima_ to the South-East: It lieth in the Valley of _Chocolocha_, and is a rich Place, by reason of the good Mines of Silver which are about it, and abundance of the best sort of Tobacco. 10. _Miguel de la Ribera_, in the Valley of _Camana_. The Inhabitants whereof drive a great Trade in Wine, Figs, and Raisins. 11. The City _Arequipa_, which extends up towards the Mountains, is built in the Dale _Quilca_, which runs eleven Leagues from the Sea, under a healthful Climate; but in the Year 1582. it was wholly ruin’d by an Earthquake; the reason whereof is ascrib’d to the wet sulphurous Mountains, which burns continually, and sometimes vomits out Flames and Ashes. The Marquess _Pizarro_ built this City forty six years before the fore-mention’d Earthquake, since which being re-built again, soon attain’d to three hundred Houses, besides a Church and Cloyster; and though it be but a small Town, yet it is of a great resort, because the Gold and Silver is brought hither from the Mines _Chancos_, _Porco_, and _Potosi_, and from thence sent down the River _Quilca_, which washing the City Walls runs into the South Sea to _Los Reyos_, and from thence to _Panama_, _Nombre de Dios_, and _New Spain_. The Jurisdiction of this City _Arequipa_ extends it self a vast way, _viz._ over the spacious Valleys between _Hacari_ and _Tampaca_, and up in the Countrey beyond the County _Condesuyo_, full of Hamlets and Villages; the Inhabitants whereof heretofore worshipp’d the Sun. By the Way from _Arequipa_ to _Collao_ lie two great Lakes, out of one of which the River _Aparima_ takes its original. 12. _Caxamalca_, rather a Fort than a Town, in a Territory of the same Denomination, built at the Foot of a Mountain wash’d with two Rivulets, over which lead several Bridges; near which also were formerly a stately Temple Consecrated to the Sun, wonderful Palaces and Baths for the _Ingas_, besides other magnificent Structures of Noble-men, which were the more famous for _Attabaliba_’s Imprisonment and Death. The Soil round about may compare with any part of the World for fertility. The Inhabitants are a peaceable ingenious People, and make curious woollen Hangings. 13. _St. Juan de la Frontera_, built by the _Spaniards_ North-East and by East from _Caxamalca_ in the County _Chiachinpoyas_, full of Gold-Mines and Cattel; to which belongs not onely _Chiachinpoyas_, but also the Countreys _Guiancas_ and _Cascainga_, out of which above twenty thousand _Peruvians_ pay Tribute to the _Spanish_ King. These People especially the Women, are very comely and beautiful; for which reason the _Ingas_ fetch’d their Wives and Concubines from thence. Eastward from _Frontera_ rise the high Mountains _Andes_, behind which flows the great River _Mayobamba_ by several poor Villages inhabited by a sottish kind of People. 14. _San Jago de las Valles_, built in an ill place amongst the Shrubs and overflowing Rivers. In this Countrey grows a Tree which bears a juicy Fruit, not unlike an Almond in prickly Rinds, but resembling those which cover a Chesnut, concerning which Physicians have deliver’d their Opinions, That there is not a wholsomer Fruit in the whole World. 15. _Leon de Guanuco_, which receiv’d that Denomination from its Builder _Vacca de Castro_, who call’d it _Leon_, because he was born in the _Spanish_ City _Leon_, and _Guanuco_ from the stately Palace of the _Ingas_ which was built here: The Houses are built of Free-stone, and cover’d with Thatch. The Citizens of _Los Reyos_ were much against the building of this Town, because several Lands belonging to them were taken away and given to _Guanuco_, where the temperate Air grants long Life and Health to the Inhabitants. The High-way, in which stand several Store-houses, formerly full of Ammunition, runs through the middle of this Countrey, where in the time of the _Ingas_ dwelt Astronomers, who by looking on the Stars pretended to tell future Events. Here the Women also us’d to be burnt alive with their Husbands. SECT. V. Cusco. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Cusco_.] _Cusco_ is the far greater part of the Province of _Peru_, containing generally all the _Sierra_, or _Hill-Countreys_, and those parts of the _Andes_ likewise which lie Southward of the little Province or _Cantred_ of _Guanuco_, being Coasted Westward and to the North-West with _Lima_; Eastward, with _Los Quixos_, and some part of _Guiana_; and on the South, with _Charcas_; enjoying for the most part a temperate and good Air, neither over-heated with the scorching Sun in the day, nor damp’d with any cold Mists or Dews in the Evening, as some parts of the Plains of _Peru_ are, but well water’d with many fresh Rivers, which make the Valleys and lower Grounds of it good Pasturage, able to maintain great Herds of Cattel. The Woods are especially stor’d with the _Coca_, whose Leaf is accounted restorative, and with much excellent Venison. [Illustration: CUSCO] [Sidenote: The several Valleys, and other Territories belonging to _Collao_.] In this Province also there are some lesser Divisions of Countreys necessary to be describ’d, _viz._ the cold and barren Countrey _Bambon_, jutting against _Guanuco_, inhabited antiently by a valiant People, especially near the Lake _Chincacocha_, which is ten Leagues in circumference; in the middle of it are several Cliffs and little Isles: And out of this Lake also the famous River _De la Plata_ hath its original, and runs through the Valley _Xauxa_, receiving by the way the Streams _Parcos_, _Bilcas_, _Abancay_, _Apurima_, _Yucay_, and others. The next Countreys in order towards the South are _Tarana_, abounding with Wheat, and the eminent Valley _Xauxa_, surrounded with snowy Mountains. The Inhabitants by a general Name call’d _Guancas_, were antiently divided into three sorts, _viz._ the _Maracabilca_, _Laxapalanga_, and _Xauxa_. Here were also several stately Houses built by the _Ingas_. Upon this Valley borders the Village _Acos_ near a Moorish place full of Canes; but before you approach the Village you come near a high Plain, where the Ruines of an antient Structure appear; and somewhat farther the Palace _Pico_: from whence the High-way directs to the Bridge _Angoyaca_, which leads cross the River _Xauxa_; near which the _Ingas_ had several magnificent Structures, and Baths of warm Springs. Not far from hence is the Village _Picoy_; between which and _Angoyaca_ the Arm of the River _Xauxa_ is cut with a Bridge, because in the Winter it glides so swift that they cannot Ferry over it. From _Picoy_ you go to the Wild, in whose Center stands the antient Castle _Pucara_, (which in the _Peruvian_ Tongue signifies _Invincible Fort_) where the _Ingas_ receiv’d their Tribute from the neighboring People that live amongst the snowy Mountains. The Banks of the great River _Vinaque_ are crown’d with the Ruines of antient Structures, which (as the Natives relate) were built by foreign People; which Assertion of theirs seems to be confirm’d by the form and manner of Building, differing from the _Ingas_ Structures, which us’d to be long and narrow. Moreover, several sweet Streams, abounding with Fish, especially Crabs, glide through the Plain-Countrey out of the Mountains _Andes_. Not far from hence appears the Plain _Chapas_, and the Palaces _Pilcas_, of which now nothing remains but a heap of Rubbish, which lies in the Center of _Peru_. A fresh-water River, which gives the fore-mention’d Palaces their Denomination, glides out of _Soras_, and washes the High-way and stately Temple of the Sun. The Countrey _Soras_, exceeding fertile, and stock’d with Gold and Silver Mines, is inhabited by a People which go Cloth’d in woollen Cloth, and for their Valor formerly much esteem’d by the _Ingas_. Those that inhabit the Countrey _Uramar_ are call’d _Chancas_, whose Neighbors possess a long Tract of Land abounding with Cattel and Fruit, but of late are most of them destroy’d by the _Spaniards_. The River _Abanca_, which takes its original in the Mountainous County _Parinacocha_, washes several Royal Buildings, and at last discharges its Waters into the River _Xauxa_. On each side of the great River _Apurima_ are erected two wonderful Stone Pillars, over which lies a most artificial Bridge built by the _Ingas_; from whence the Highway, being cut through hard Rocks, leads up into the Countrey; where the stately Buildings of _Limatambo_ shew themselves; and beyond the Mountain _Bilcaconga_ the Valley _Xaquixaguana_, inclos’d between high Rocks, comes in view, where the _Ingas_ us’d to recreate themselves in their Banquetting-houses; from whence the Highway, which is Wall’d in on both sides, runs directly through deep Moorish Grounds to _Cusco_. [Sidenote: _Peter Anzurez_ his Journey.] Eastward from _Cusco_, behind the _Andes_, are many large Countreys, which to discover the _Spaniards_ spar’d neither trouble, danger, nor charge: between both they found vast Wildernesses, inaccessible Mountains, and overgrown Countreys; yet at last they opened four ways thither: the first whereof runs through the Valley _Paquil_ to _Tono_, a Village in the middle of the Mountains; from thence to the River _Opotazi_, along which it is very troublesom travelling, because of the thick Woods and steep Rocks: lastly to the hot and fruitful Valley _Abisca_, and so to vast Wildernesses, overgrown with Brambles and Bushes, which prevented any farther Discovery. The second Way runs thirty Leagues farther to the Southward, through the Countreys _Sandia_, _Camata_ and _Caravaya_, to _Zama_. Through this Way, _Anno 1538. Peter Anzurez_ travell’d; setting out from _Zama_, he found many desolate Mountains, barren Wilds, and close Woods, through which he entred into the County _Tacana_, and from thence to the River _Omapalchas_, inhabited on both sides by the _Cheriabones_ and _Marquires_, who oppos’d him in his crossing over the River; but meeting with nothing but barren Commons, he travell’d up along the River, and view’d the Countreys _Moios_, _Cochabamba_, and _Chuguiabo_, from whence he return’d to _Collao_, having lost most of his People by Hunger and Hardship. But not long after others went over the _Andes_ to the Countreys which extend themselves East and West, some whereof travell’d through _Camata_, and others through _Cochabamba_. [Sidenote: Towns and Places of note.] The principal Towns and Places of Trade in it are, 1. _Bombon_, situate upon the Lake _Chinchacocha_, said to be ten Leagues in compass, begirt round about almost with Hills, and having neighborhood with many other lesser, but pleasant Villages. 2. _Parcos_, once a Palace Royal of the _Ingas_, seated on the top of a little Hill, encompass’d with other Rocky and higher Mountains on all sides. 3. _San Juan de Vittoria_, which the Marquess _Pizarro_ built _Anno 1539._ to secure the Way between _Lima_ and _Cusco_, from the Assaults of the _Peruvians_, before he absolutely conquer’d this Kingdom: the Walls are wash’d by a sweet Stream, to the great convenience of the Citizens. 4. _Guamanga_, a City lying in a pleasant Plain under a healthful Climate, built with Stone-houses cover’d with Tyles; the Owners whereof have great store of Land, which they Sowe with Wheat, and also breed plenty of Cattel. To this City, which is adorn’d with three Churches, five Cloysters, and a large Almshouse, above thirty thousand _Peruvians_ bring annual Tribute. The Mines produce Gold, Silver, Copper, Iron, Lead, Sulphur, and Load-stones; near which grows the poysonous Herb _Mio_, which kills the Cattel that chance to eat thereof. In the Woods also hereabouts feeds a Beast, whose Piss stinks at a Miles distance. This City is by some deliver’d to be the same with _San Juan de la Vittoria_ above mention’d. 5. _Bilcas_, another Palace of the _Ingas_, now a good Town of the Natives, and situate, as is suppos’d, in the very midst of the Countrey of _Peru_. 6. _Guancavelica_, a new Town, rais’d from the condition of a very poor Village, to a Place of very great Importance and Traffick, onely by the Mines of Quicksilver, which were first discover’d there in the Year 1566. by _Amador Cabrera_, through the assistance of a _Peruvian_ nam’d _Mavincopa_: This _Cabrera_ selling his Interest for a hundred and fifty thousand _Ducats_, Su’d the Buyer, upon pretence that he had sold it above one half under the value: whilest this was depending, _Peter Ferdinando de Valasco_ came from _Mexico_ to _Guamanga_, to make trial of the cleansing of Silver by Quicksilver, and finding it to succeed according to his expectation, he sent great quantities of it to _Arica_, and from thence by Land to _Potosi_. The King of _Spain_ is said to receive from this Mine of _Guancavelica_, all his Charges defray’d, above a thousand Pound _per Annum_ for his usual fifth part: But the antient Natives regarded not these Mines so much for the Quicksilver as for the Vermilion which is found mix’d with it, wherewith they delighted very much to paint their Bodies: There is great Art now us’d in the separating of the Quicksilver from the Vermilion. This Town was long since inhabited by two thousand _Spaniards_ at least, and twice as many Natives. [Sidenote: The original of the City _Cusco_.] 7. _Cusco_, which is the Metropolis of the Kingdom of _Peru_, built on a hard Ground, surrounded with Mountains, under a cold, yet wholsom Climate, and wash’d by two Rivers, which on the East side of _Cusco_ parting, one runs direct West, and the other Southward. One part of the City antiently bore the Denomination of _Haran-Cusco_, and the second, _Oren-Cusco_, where the chief Nobility and most antient Families dwelt. Concerning the original of this Place, the _Peruvians_ say, That several Ages past there appear’d three Men, call’d _Ayrache_, _Aranca_, and _Ajarmango_, and with them three Women, nam’d _Mamacola_, _Mamacona_, and _Mamaragua_, all of them very richly Cloth’d; that _Ayrache_ had a Precious Stone at the end of a Truncheon, which by holding up he rais’d the Mountains to the Skies, and when he let it fall, levell’d them with the lowest Valleys: _Aranca_ and _Ajarmango_ concluded to build a stately City, and sent for People from remote Countries to inhabit it; with which Design the Natives thereabouts seem’d to be well pleas’d: but before they went to work they judg’d it convenient to destroy _Ayrache_, whose great Power they envy’d: This being resolv’d upon, they invited him to a deep narrow-mouth’d Cave, that there they might worship the Sun his Father (for so Descended he took upon him to be), he was no sooner entred but the rest shut the Mouth of the Cave with great Stones, hoping so to starve him to death; which _Ayrache_ observing, stood amaz’d a while, till at last he threw off all the Stones, and flew with great and divers colour’d Wings up into the Air, crying aloud, _Fear not_, Aranca _and_ Ajarmango, _though you have design’d to take away my Life, but build a City in this place, and call it_ Cusco; _for in it shall stand the Seat of the_ Ingas, _under whose Jurisdiction extending far and near, many great Nations shall bow. The Temple which the Gods have there design’d shall not onely exceed all other Structures in the World, in Art and Costliness, but be famous for strange Offerings to the Sun. If the Citizens build Altars for me, burn Myrrh, and make Offerings to me, they may certainly expect to vanquish all their Enemies, and increase their Power. According to my Example bore Holes through your Ears, as a sign of Obedience._ All which _Aranca_, _Ajarmango_, and the fore-mention’d Women promis’d to perform. Whereupon _Ayrache_ gave them a rich Diadem with a Tassel, which was to be the Head-Ornament of the succeeding _Ingas_; which they had no sooner receiv’d, but _Ayrache_ and _Aranca_ were turn’d into Stones, yet retaining their former shape; which _Ajarmango_ observing, fell straight, together with the three Women, upon building the City _Cusco_. After the Deluge breaking out of the Hole _Tambo_, he chang’d his Name of _Ajarmango_ for _Mangocapa_, that is, _Mighty Lord_, and made himself, as they say, the first _Peruvian_ King. The City _Cusco_ was divided into four Wards, the East call’d _Andosayo_, the South _Callasayo_ the North, _Chinchasuyo_, and the West _Condesayo_, every one so call’d from the Countreys, to which the Gates of the four Wards are oppos’d. If any one coming out of another Countrey, setled himself in _Cusco_, as it hapned daily, he was permitted to dwell no where but in that Ward which fronted his native Countrey. The four high Streets, which through these Wards one way fall into the Market-place, being in the middle of the City, are the other way answerable to the four principal High-ways, _viz._ that which leads to _Quito_ and _Pasto_, through _Chinchasuyo_; to _Arehuipa_, through _Condesuyo_; to the Mountains _Andes_, through _Andesuyo_; and to _Chili_, through _Collasuyo_. The two Rivers before mention’d, which part at the East end of the City, are pass’d over with divers Bridges. The narrow Streets are full of Stone Houses, built in good Order. In several places are Vaulted Cellars under Ground, in some of which are buried great Treasures: they had been formerly the Habitations for Necromancers and Soothsayers; for this sort of People were once in great esteem amongst the Inhabitants, who coming from _Chili_, _Pasto_, _Bocamores_, _Topona_, _Bombon_, _Charcas_, _Collao_, _Chiachiapoias_, _Conchucos_, and other _Peruvian_ Countreys, receive great benefit from the fresh Water, and from the Corn-Mills built on the Streets through the City. [Sidenote: The antient Palaces and other stately Structures in _Cusco_.] The stately Palaces which the _Peruvian_ Nobility have at several times built in _Oren-Cusco_, being one part of the City, are very wonderful, the Owners whereof were forc’d by the _Ingas_ to appear at Court at Set-times, that so he might prevent all Insurrections: Also he caus’d the Children of the prime Lords to be brought up in _Cusco_, under pretence that they might learn the _Cuscoan_ Tongue perfectly, in which the _Ingas_ would always be spoken to; whenas their Design was to keep them as Hostages in their own Jurisdictions, that their Fathers might not rebel; by which means it hapned, that in most places of _Peru_, which amongst the several Tribes and Principalities had several Languages, the _Cuscoan_ Tongue was understood and spoken. But the _Spaniards_, who are the present Possessors thereof, have alter’d and repair’d most of the ordinary Houses, which are now neatly built of Stone. Above all the old Structures, the Palace of the _Ingas_, and the Temple of the Sun, are the most magnificent; the Palace lies inclos’d within a square quadruple Wall, each corner whereof is adorn’d and strengthned with a Tower: The Palace it self is built round, and with Arches; but that which chiefly amazes the Beholder, is to see how the Stones, which are so big that forty Horses are not able to stir one of them out of its place, were brought thither by the Labor of the Builders from the neighboring Mountains; for the _Peruvians_ never made use of any laboring Beast, except their Sheep _Pacos_, not knowing the use of Horses, Camels, Oxen, Elephants, or the like, before the _Spaniards_ coming thither. The Halls within the Palace were Wainscoted with Golden Plates: yet the _Inga_’s Apparel was not answerable to the rest of his Pomp; for in stead of a Crown they bound their Heads about with a red woollen Sash, with which they almost cover’d their Eyes; at the end of the Sash hung certain Ribbands, which they gave the Governor as occasion offer’d, that by this Sign, as by a Commission, they might exercise their Offices; the sight of which String caus’d such Obedience, that if the _Inga_ had commanded the Inhabitants of a Town or Countrey to murder themselves, none durst deny. The _Inga_ was generally carried by a hundred of his Noble-men, of whom if any one had accidentally chanc’d to stumble, he was immediately put to death. No man durst presume to look him in the Face, or speak to him without a Present. [Sidenote: The Temple _Curicanche_.] [Sidenote: A cruel Battel between two Brothers.] The Temple _Curicanche_, Dedicated to the Sun, was certainly the most rich and sumptuous that ever the World boasted, it being Govern’d by the Chief Priest _Villanoa_. The Inga _Guainacava_ spent an invaluable Treasure in the building of this Structure, for he cover’d the Roof and Walls with thick Plates of massie Gold and Silver. At his return home from the Conquest of the Province of _Quito_, from whence the Inhabitants, according to an antient Custom of the _Ingas_, were carried to one of the remotest Countreys in _Peru_. But _Guainacava_ enamor’d of a _Quitoan_ Maid, staid a considerable time in the City _Quito_, and kept a splendid Wedding at the Marriage of his Bride, who bare unto him the famous _Attabaliba_, whom he lov’d beyond all his other Children, and a little before his death made him King of _Quito_. But _Huascar_ after _Guainacava_’s Decease would not suffer his Brother to live in the late conquer’d Kingdom of _Quito_, but gave him Battel in the Plain of _Tomebamba_, which lasted three days and three Nights, and after much Blood-shed, _Attabaliba_ being defeated was taken Prisoner, and not long after making his Escape by the help of an antient Woman (whilest _Huascar_’s Commanders and Soldiers rejoyc’d with Cups full of _Chica_ for their gotten Victory) he made his Subjects in _Quito_ believe, that he being transform’d into a Serpent, crept through a little Hole out of the Prison; and that he had a Promise from Heaven to obtain Conquest over _Huascar_; which being believ’d, stirr’d up all his Subjects to take up Arms, and valiantly to go and meet the Enemy, whom they not onely defeated, but took _Huascar_ Prisoner. [Sidenote: _Zaires_ the Son of _Mango Inga_ submits to the _Spaniards_.] _Huascar_ being destroy’d by _Attabaliba_, and _Attabaliba_ by _Pizarro_, _Mango Inga_ their youngest Brother took the Government upon him, made continual Sallies upon the _Spaniards_ from inaccessible Mountains, and at his Decease left the remaining part of _Peru_ to his Son _Zaires Topa_; who seeing no good to be done by force of Arms, submitted himself freely to the King of _Spain_’s Jurisdiction in the Year 1557. since which the _Spaniards_ have been sole Masters. There are at this day four great Churches in _Cusco_: Also the _Dominicans_, _Franciscans_, _Augustines_, and the Monks _De la Merced_, have each of them stately Cloysters here: but the _Jesuits_ Structure exceeds all the other. Above forty thousand _Peruvians_ pay annual Tribute to this City. In the Valley about the City feed abundance of Cattel; also Wheat, and all manner of Herbs grow here in great plenty. The Gold and Silver-Mines have not that resort which they had formerly, most of the Workmen being remov’d to _Potosi_. Concerning the Service which they perform’d in the fore-mention’d Temple of the Sun, and their superstitious Opinions about their Idol _Con_, they are much of the same ridiculous nature with what hath been already Discours’d of in other places. Five Leagues Southwardly from _Cusco_ lies the Valley _Yucay_ between high snowy Mountains, under a temperate Climate and pleasant Soil. Not far from hence the _Ingas_ built a most invincible Castle on a Rock, which was surrounded with many cliffy Walls one above another; these Walls were also Carv’d with Images of Lyons, Tygers, and other wild Beasts, which held Lances in their Paws; the top of the Rock was crown’d with a Royal Structure built of Stone, through which ran Golden Veins, joyn’d together with a certain Gum, by some call’d _Jews-Lime_. To the Province of _Condesuyo_ belong the valiant People _Chumbibalcas_ and _Ubinas_. In the County _Pomatambo_ they make Carpets of fine Wooll, curiously Painted. 8. The City _Francisco de Vittoria_, which lies in the rough Valley _Vilcabamba_, and is inclos’d by the Mountains _Andes_, belonging to the Jurisdiction of the Province _Andésuyo_. 9. The Village _Juan del Oro_, which is the chief Place of the Countrey _Caravaya_, and so call’d by the _Spaniards_ from the fine Gold which is found there in great abundance. [Sidenote: Havens, Isles, and Points in _Peru_.] Along the Sea-Coast of _Peru_ belonging to the Jurisdiction of _Los Reyos_, lie the following Havens, Isles and Points. South-East from the Promontory _Aguya_, rises the Isle _St. Roque_ out of the South-Sea, surrounded with Rocks, and abounds with Birds of prey; through the midst of it runs a River which divides the Island. The Haven _Malabrigo_, ill defended against the Winds, cannot be entred by great Vessels, unless in calm Weather. Next follow the Harbors _Guanape_ and _Santa_, where the Ships us’d to furnish themselves with Water out of a fresh River; _Casuya_ and _Guarmay_, both inhabited by _Peruvians_. Near the Mouth of the Road _Guara_ stands a large Salt-pan, the Salt about which is found in great hard Pieces. The Island _Collao_ secures the Haven before _Lima_. Behind _Cape Guarco_ lies the _Lobos_; and not far from hence the Harbor _Sangallan_, being so commodious that the _Spaniards_ consider’d a long time whether they should build the City _Los Reyos_ here. The Promontory _Nasca_ affords also good shelter for Ships; and the Haven _Hacari_ yields store of Refreshments. Moreover, the Streams _Oconna_, _Camana_, and _Quilca_ discharge their Waters into the Sea. The Haven _Arequipa_ appears at its Mouth like a little Pool, surrounded with Mountains. Between _Quilca_ and the River _Tamboyalla_ lies the Isle _Nuli_; and a little more Southward the Haven _Paracca_ and _Pisca_; and up in the Countrey the Village _Yca_, where the most and best _Peruvian_ Wine is to be had. SECT. VI. Los Charcas. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Los Charcas_.] _Los Charcas_ is the farthest Countrey Southward of the Kingdom of _Peru_, reaching up as far as _Chile_, with which on the South it is border’d, having on the North, _Lima_ and _Collao_; on the West, _Mare del Zur_; and on the East, some Countreys not yet well discover’d, which lie betwixt it and the Province of _Paraguay_, or _De la Plata_. The Countrey is said to be in length about a hundred and fifty Leagues, measuring it directly, or in a right Line from North to South; but measuring it about along the Sea-Coast, much about two hundred: It is not very rich either in Corn or Cattel, although in some parts it wanteth not good Pasturage; but of unparalell’d Wealth, in respect of the Mines of Gold and Silver which are here digg’d, the principal whereof are those of _Potosi_ and _Parco_. The Mountains hereabouts are inhabited by the _Cavinas_, who dwell in Stone Houses. Their Neighbors the _Canches_ are a subtile, good natur’d, and painful People, breed many Sheep, sowe Corn, and catch plenty of Fish out of the Rivers. Next comes in view the cold Countrey _Conas_. On the right side towards the Southern Ocean, the great Wilderness _Parinacocha_ extends it self a vast way; the Mountains round about are continually cover’d with Snow, and the Dales have many deep Moors. [Illustration: POTOSI.] [Sidenote: Principal Towns and Places of note.] Chief Towns and Places of note in this part of _Peru_ are, 1. _Plata_, otherwise call’d _Chuquisaca_, the Countrey whose Metropolis it is, situate under a temperate Climate, in a fruitful Soil for the production of all manner of Plants, and especially Wheat, Barley, and Grapes. In this City the High Court of Judicature of _Los Charcas_ is kept, being a principal part of _Peru_, and inhabited by the richest _Spaniards_ in the whole Kingdom, having gotten an incredible deal of Treasure out of the neighboring Silver-Mines, which from the time of the _Ingas_, or Kings of _Peru_, to its Discovery by the _Spaniards_, held out and continu’d so rich, that ’tis thought _Pizarro_, if Reason could have rul’d him, might here onely have rais’d himself a Rent of two hundred thousand Ducats _per Annum_; but his desire and hopes, first to find more at _Potosi_, and afterwards his ambition and greediness to have and command all, carried him to violent Courses, which proved his Ruine, as hath been said. The Town is conveniently seated in a fruitful Soil, honor’d with the Residence of the Governor of the Province, and with a Bishops See, said to be the richest of _Peru_, _viz._ of fourscore thousand Ducats _per Annum_. The Cathedral and divers Cloysters give also a great lustre to the City. The antient Inhabitants of this Countrey, especially about those parts where now this City stands, were the _Charcas_ and _Charanques_, both valiant People, who by Command of the _Ingas_ fetch’d invaluable Treasures out of the neighboring Mines of _Porco_, where a thousand Men were continually kept at work. In _La Plata_ were reckon’d long since, besides _Spaniards_, above sixty thousand _Peruvians_ which pay annual Tribute. 2. _Oropesa_, a place of good Metal, as a man may perceive by the Name; It lieth in the rich and pleasant Valley _Cochobamba_, twenty Leagues distant from _La Plata_. 3. _Potosi_, eighteen Leagues Westward from _La Plata_, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _The Imperial City_, built at the Foot of a Mountain bearing the same Denomination, on a barren Soil under a cold Climate, though but twenty one Degrees to the Southward of the _Equinoctial Line_: the Cold proceeds from the high Lands, which lie bare to the bleak and sharp Winds call’d _Tomohavi_, which blow every year very fiercely from _May_ till _September_. But though the barren Countrey produces no Fruit, yet no place in _Peru_ hath greater plenty of all Provisions and Dainties than this, the Markets being always full of Fruit, Salt-Meat, _Maiz_, _Papas_, Wheat, Sugar, Sweet-meats, and all things that are requisite for the subsistence of Man-kind, which are brought thither from all parts for the Silver, which is there in such plenty. As to what concerns the famous Mountain _Potosi_ in the Countrey of _Charcas_, it is of an Ash colour, and rises above the adjacent Mountains in the form of a Sugar-Loaf; on the top of it stands a Chappel, to which leads a craggy Path, which with a little care may be rid up with a Horse; the heighth thereof is a thousand six hundred and twenty four Rods, or a quarter of a League: at the Foot thereof appears the Mine call’d _Guaina Potosi_, that is, The _young Potosi_; near which the City _Potosi_ stands, being two Leagues in circumference, and is adorn’d with a Church and Cloyster for the _Dominicans_, and exceedingly resorted to by Traders. In the time when the _Ingas_ Govern’d _Peru_, the Silver-Mines at _Porco_ were very famous; but it was not till after the arrival of the _Spaniards_ that Silver was found in _Guaina Potosi_, and by degrees the Silver Veins which lay hid in the great _Potosi_; the manner of which Discovery was as followeth: [Sidenote: The occasion of the first Discovery of the Mines in _Potosi_.] A _Peruvian_ call’d _Gualpa_, who work’d in the Mines at _Porco_, going a Hunting, it chanc’d that the Game ran up the steep Mountain of _Potosi_, which prevented his pursuing of it any farther; but the Mountain being overgrown with Trees, he got hold from one Bough to another to help himself up, and at last taking hold of the Bramble call’d _Quinua_, he pull’d the same out of the Ground, and finding it heavy, look’d upon it, and espy’d a great lump of Silver hanging at the Root of it; whereupon viewing the Hole, he discover’d a rich Silver Vein; of which taking some pieces home, and melting them, he found that it was the best Silver that ever he had known; wherefore he privately got a greater quantity, and by degrees grew extraordinary rich: but though he carried his Design never so close, yet he was at last suspected, and especially by his Neighbor _Guanca_, born in the Valley _Xauxa_, who was the more jealous of him, because he sold greater Bars of Silver than any were cast at _Porco_; whereupon he resolv’d to speak to him, and getting out the Secret, it came to this Agreement between them, That they should both be Partners and share the Booty; _Gualpa_ was to keep the Vein, since call’d _The Rich Vein_, and _Guanca_ was to have another, at present nam’d _Diego Centeno_: but they agreed not long; for _Guanca_ finding much labor upon his Vein, by reason of the hardness, and that he could get no share in what _Gualpa_ got, acquainted his _Spanish_ Master _Vilaroel_ with it, who rested not till he had found out the truth thereof; for which _Vilaroel_ obtain’d (according to the Custom of _Porco_) several Rods to work for himself, onely paying the King one fifth part of what he got, and so remain’d Owner of the Mine _Centeno_. [Sidenote: The Mine _Potosi_, when discover’d.] This Discovery of the rich Mine _Potosi_ is said to have hapned on the twenty fourth of _April_, _Anno 1545._ Soon after which they found the Silver Vein _Del Estanno_, which though it was very rich, was difficult to be digg’d, because of its hardness. The first Vein which _Gualpa_ search’d after stood upright from the bottom of the Mine, and contain’d above three hundred Foot in length, and thirteen in breadth, and continuing good for two hundred Foot in depth, after which the Silver begins to lessen. The _Peruvians_ relate, That the _Ingas_ first began to dig in _Potosi_, but gave it over because the Workmen heard a terrible Voice, saying, _Leave off doing what you are about; the Treasures which lie hid here, are reserv’d for a People out of foreign Countreys_. These Mines produce yearly for the King’s fifth part, forty thousand Pieces of Silver, each valu’d at thirteen _Ryals_, each _Ryal_ being four Shillings, besides what he is defrauded of, which is perhaps half as much more. The Mines of _Potosi_ exceed all other, because the Diggers never meet with any Water, notwithstanding they work above two hundred Fathom under Ground, whereas the other Silver Mines suffer great damage by the Water; which was also the reason why the _Spaniards_ left off digging of Silver in _Porco_, because they were not onely forc’d to cut through hard Rocks, but ran greater danger, or at least bestow’d extraordinary labor to get out the Water which broke in upon them. [Sidenote: Four Silver Veins, with their several Divisions.] The four Silver Veins of _Potosi_, _viz._ _The Rich_, _Centeno_, _Del Estanno_, and _Mendieta_, lie on the East-side of the Mountain, and extend North and South. The great Veins produce lesser, not unlike the Body of a Tree, from which shoot forth several degrees of Boughs. Each Vein is divided into several parts, possess’d by several Owners; the least part is open’d four Rods, and the biggest eighty; for none are permitted by the Law to open a bigger Hole. In the time of the Jesuit _Joseph de Acosta_, an Eye-witness, who _Anno 1587._ went from _Peru_ to _Spain_, the _Rich Vein_ was reckon’d to contain eighty seven Mines, of which some were digg’d two hundred Fathom deep. The _Spaniards_ judge that at the Root of the _Rich Vein_ is an incredible Treasure, though Experience hath hitherto taught us, that the Silver lessens in price and quantity the deeper they dig in the Ground. [Sidenote: The _Socabonos_ or Trenches, with the manner of Mining.] For the more easie working in the Mines, the _Spaniards_ have digg’d Trenches (which they call _Socabonos_) at the Foot of the Mountain towards the West, cross through the Mountain to the Mine, each of them being eight Foot broad and a Fathom deep, and lock’d up with Gates, through which the Silver is carried out, whereof the Owner of the _Socabon_ receives a fifth part. The _Socabon_ which leads to the _Rich Vein_, was begun _Anno 1556._ and finish’d in twenty nine years, extends it self two hundred and fifty Rods in length. The Miners work by Candle-light both Day and Night by turns; those that work in the Day, sleep in the Night, and those that work in the Night, sleep in the Day. The Oar, which is as hard as a Stone, is cut out with Pick-axes, beaten in pieces with an Iron Crow, and carried upon their Backs on Ladders made of Leather: Each Ladder hath three Fastnings about the thickness of a Cable, stretch’d out by Sticks, so that one goes up on one side, whilest another comes down on the other. Each Ladder being ten Fathom long, is pitch’d upon its several Floor on which the Laborers rest before they go up higher, for they make divers Floors according to the depth of the Mine. The Laborers carry the Oar in Bags fastned before on their Breasts, and falling back over their Shoulders three and three together, the foremost whereof ties a lighted Candle to his Thumb, and thus they help themselves with both Hands. It is a wonderful thing to consider, how the _Peruvians_ are able to scramble up and down continually a hundred and fifty Fathom: But besides many other Inconveniences, the Mines often fall in, or at least great pieces, which bury all the Diggers. The Mines also, being excessive cold, occasion to those that are not us’d to them, a _Vertigo_ in the Head, and Vomiting. The Silver runs for the most part between two Rocks, as it were, in a long Channel, of which one side is as hard as Flint, and the other much softer. This Silver is of different value; the best, call’d _Cacilla_ or _Tacana_, resembles Amber in colour; the worser sort is blackish, and sometimes of an Ash-colour. The pieces of Oar are carry’d on the Backs of the Sheep _Pacos_ to the Mill, where being ground to Powder, they are put into Furnaces to melt; of which there were once above six thousand on the top of _Potosi_; but since the Quicksilver was found to cleanse the same, not a third part remains pure. In former times the Mines at _Porco_, two Leagues from the little Lake _Aulagas_, produc’d those vast Treasures gather’d by the _Ingas_, which afterwards for the most part fell into the _Spaniards_ Hands. [Sidenote: Port-Towns, Rivers, and Havens of _Los Charcas_.] As concerning the Sea-Coast of _Los Charcas_, it lies as followeth: Southerly from the River _Tambopalla_ puts forth a three-pointed Rock into the Ocean, and makes the Haven _De Ylo_, into which falls a fresh River. Next follow the round Hill _Morro de los Diabolos_, and the Inlet before the Town _Arica_, secur’d from all except a Westerly Wind, where the Silver that comes from _Potosi_ is Shipp’d for _Lima_. Since the _English_ Admiral Sir _Francis Drake_ took three Barks out of this Inlet it is fortifi’d with a Castle, which is stor’d with Brass Guns. Nine Leagues Southward the _Pissaqua_ falls into the Ocean; and next you come to the little Village _Hicahic_, situate on a high and barren Tract of Land; as also the Haven _Terrapaca_, which by an Inland is made very secure. Not far from hence appears the Foot of _Piqua_, where the Coast begins to rise very high; the Head of _Tacama_, the Stream _Lottoya_, otherwise call’d _De Loa_, whose Banks are inhabited by poor People; the River _Montelo_, the Promontory _Morro Moreno_, beyond whose utmost Point opens a Bay, secur’d from all Winds by an Island. The Inhabitants here feed on raw Fish. Next the River _Claru_ comes in view, which is taken for a Boundary between _Peru_ and _Chili_. Eastward up into the Countrey you come to _Santa Cruiz_, built at the Foot of a Mountain in a Plain near a Brook, which rushing forth from a Rock glides through the City to a Lake full of delicious Fish. The Houses of Stone, are cover’d with Palm-Tree Leaves; and besides the Church there is also a Cloyster, inhabited by the Monks _De la Merced_. In former times the _Peruvian_ Houses were built of Clay, and were often destroy’d by their Neighbors the _Cheriguanacs_ and _Titanes_, who made Feasts with as many as they took of them. The People about this Place are meek and poor spirited, and speak besides four Languages, the _Diagnitan_ Tongue, common amongst all of them. Before the Arrival of the _Spaniards_ they went Cloth’d in Ostritches Feathers, but since taught to weave Cotton, they now make their Apparel of the same, and upon the account of Barter, drive a great Trade in it: They Dye their Cotton with the boyl’d Roots and Leaves of a little Tree. Eastward beyond _Santa Cruiz_ lies the Countrey _Paicanos_, eminent for the great _Calabashes_ which grow there, exceeding good to keep both wet and dry Meats in. The Countrey receives a vicissitude of excessive Cold and intolerable Heat; the hard Winters taking beginning in _May_, and continuing till the beginning of _August_. In the middle of our Summer a South-wind blows seven Weeks together here, to the great prejudice of all Plants, which are during that time often wash’d away by continual Rains. About _Christmas_ they Sowe, and gather in their Harvest in _March_. During the rainy Season the Ways cannot be travell’d, being all overflow’d by the Rivers; neither doth the _Palm-Wood_, which is four days Journey in length, permit any access to the said City _Santa Cruiz_, because the conflux of Waters makes it a Moor all over; besides which, the Tygers, Bears, and Serpents, make the Ways dangerous, especially at that time. Through this Countrey the _Spanish_ Captain _Nusco de Chavas_ travell’d, when he discover’d the _Taguamacis_, a numerous People, which dwell along the great River _De la Plata_. The Countrey about _Santa Cruiz_ produces all manner of Fruit, but few Trees, because of the want of Rain; but Corn, _Maiz_, Wine, _Granadillas_, _Luiumas_, and _Tucumay_, as also the Plant _Hachalindi_, in the _Latine_ Tongue call’d _Mirabile Peruanum_, grow here in great abundance; which last shoots up to the bigness of a pretty large Body, full of Juice, and of a yellowish colour, out of which shoot knotty Boughs, and about each Knot two Leaves resembling the Herb _Nightshade_; the Flowers which hang at the ends of the Boughs are long, and pleasant to the Eye, by reason of their mixture of Purple, White, and Yellow, and also of a sweet smell. It is a strange Secret in Nature, that this Flower opens at Midnight, if any Light come near the same: The Root also is accounted an effectual Medicine against the Dropsie. SECT. VII. Collao. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Collao_.] _Collao_ lieth Southward of those Countries, which go under the general Name of the Province of _Cusco_, having on the West, _Lima_; on the South, _Charcas_; but Eastward, and to the North-East, it is shut up by a Ridge of Mountains, running in one Body or continu’d Tract from the Confines of _Collao_, as far as the City of _Cusco_, where they divide. The Countrey is generally plain, commodiously water’d in all Parts with fresh Rivers, and consequently affording rich Pasturage and good Herds of Cattel. [Sidenote: Chief Towns and Places of note.] The chief Towns and Places of note are, 1. _Chuquinga_, a great Town, and held to be naturally almost impregnable, as being environ’d round about either with deep unfordable Waters, or with Mountains unpassable, and having one onely Cawsey leading to it, reported to be for two or three Leagues together no broader than to permit one single Person to march conveniently upon it. 2. The City _Pucara_, which was formerly well inhabited, but at present nothing remains of it, except the ruin’d Walls of great Houses, and large Images of Stone. 3. _Ayavire_, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Las Sepulturas_, being a Place especially enobled by the stately Monuments of the _Peruvian_ Nobility which were found there. 4. _Hatuncolla_, the Metropolis or chief Town of this Province, seated upon the Banks of the River _Caravaya_, whose Streams are very much fam’d for Gold. [Illustration: CALLAO de LIMA] The River _Caravaya_, which glides from the _Andes_ Eastward to the City _Juan del Oro_, produces much fine Gold, but not without the loss of many People, which are kill’d by the unwholsom Air and Damps that arise here. [Sidenote: The Lake _Titicaca_.] The Lake _Titicaca_, which washes the Countrey _Collao_ on the North, the Province of _Omasuy_ on the East, _Chaquito_ on the West, and _Chuquiabo_ on the South, is one of the greatest Lakes of _America_, being eighty Leagues in circumference, and in several places as many Fathom deep; wherefore it is exceeding rough in windy Weather. Into this Lake ten great Rivers discharge their Waters, which run away again through a narrow, but very deep Channel, in which the Stream runs so strong, that no Boats are able to abide in it. 5. _Chinquita_, a Colony of _Spaniards_ upon the Banks of _Titicaca_, having many small Islands in it of a good and fruitful Soil, abounding in Fish and variety of Sea-Fowl; it is suppos’d to be fourscore Leagues distant likewise from the South Sea, having onely one _Estuary_ or Mouth, which is something strait, but of such a deep Water and violent Stream, that (as _Acosta_ testifieth of it) it is not possible to build a Bridge of Stone or Timber over it; but the Natives in stead thereof have laid a Bridge of Straw upon it, which serves as well, _viz._ so many great Bundles of Straw, Sedge, or such like matter, well and surely made up and fastned together, as will reach from one side or Bank of the _Estuary_ to another; at which likewise having made them sure, they cast some good quantity of more Straw and Sedge upon them, and have a Bridge very convenient, upon which they both securely pass themselves, and also drive Cattel, and do other necessary Business. The Water is neither bitter nor brackish, yet is not drinkable because of its muddiness. Several Islands that lie in the Lake serv’d formerly for Store-houses of the chiefest Goods, which the People thereabouts living near the High-way would not trust in their Villages. [Sidenote: The Plant _Totara_.] Here grows a certain Broom-Plant call’d _Totara_, good for many uses, and is also wholsom Food both for Man and Beast; moreover, they cover their Houses with the same, burn it on their Hearths, and make Boats. The _Uros_, a salvage People, made Floats of _Totara_, which they ty’d together, and built Villages on the same, which drove to and again, according as the Wind blew. The Lake also breeds abundance of Fish, and especially two sorts, _viz._ _Suches_, which are very pleasing to the Palate, but unwholsom; and the _Bogas_, which though less, and full of Bones, are a much better Food. There likewise breed plenty of Fowls about the same, especially wild Geese and Ducks. When the _Peruvians_ intend to Entertain any Person, they go to catching of Fowls (by them call’d _Chaco_) after this manner: They make a Circle with the Floats nam’d _Balsas_, and Rowing close to one another, take up the inclos’d Fowl with their Hands. Moreover, the fore-mention’d Channel, through which the Lake _Titicaca_ discharges its Water, ends in a little Lake call’d _Aulagas_, likewise full of desolate Isles, but hath no visible place into which to empty its Water, therefore it must needs, according to the course of Nature, fall under Ground, where it commixes with a Stream whose original is unknown, though it be seen to fall into the South Sea. The Town is a Place of extraordinary Wealth and Trading, and so considerable, that the Governor thereof is always nam’d by the King of _Spain_ himself, and his Place estimated at fifty thousand Ducats _per Annum_. 6. _Tiaguanaco_, at the _Estuary_, or Mouth of the Lake, memorable onely for the Ruines of certain great and stupendious Buildings which antiently have stood there, some of the Stones whereof are said to have been of thirty Foot length apiece, fifteen Foot broad, and six or seven Foot thick. There were likewise found the Statues of certain Men excellently Carv’d and Wrought, of a Gigantick stature or bigness, and likewise veiled in foreign and strange Habits, not at all us’d, nor ever known to have been us’d by the _Peruvians_ themselves, or by any other of the Natives of _America_. 7. _Nuestra Sennora de la Paz_, or _Our Lady of Peace_, otherwise call’d _Pueblo Nuevo_: It is but a small Town, yet pleasantly seated upon the Banks of a River in a fair and fruitful Plain, full of Springs, Fruit-Trees, _Savanas_, and Fields of _Maiz_, having Mountains on either side: It lieth almost in the middle of the Province _Chuquinabo_, fourteen Leagues distant from _Cusco_, and as many from _Potosi_. The Province _Chuquinabo_ it self (which in the _Peruvian_ Tongue signifies _Inheritance of Gold_) hath many rich Gold-Mines, good Salt-pits, and a temperate Climate, except from the beginning of _December_ till _March_, in which time the continual Rains cause Feavers and Agues. The Inhabitants being very poor People, us’d to go naked in the Summer Season. 8. _Copavana_, two and twenty Leagues beyond _Lopoz_: It is onely inhabited by _Peruvians_; amongst whom an Image of the Virgin _Mary_, long since erected there, hath been ever in great veneration, especially by reason of a Tradition of a great Miracle there perform’d: for the _Spaniards_ affirm, That _Johannes Anachoreta_ going a Journey of several Weeks from home, plac’d a lighted Candle before the Image, which during the time of his absence did not at all diminish. [Sidenote: A strange Earthquake at _Angoanga_.] An Accident which fell out in this Countrey is very remarkable, _viz._ The Ground of an old Village call’d _Angoanga_, then inhabited by eminent Necromancers, began on a sudden to swell, and the Earth to run like a broken Wave two Leagues, overwhelming the Houses in Sand, and filling up a neighboring Lake. [Sidenote: The like in _Herefordshire_ in _England_.] Eight years before this terrible Earthquake here, there hapned in the County of _Hereford_ in _England_ almost the same kind of prodigious Motion: for not far from the Town _Ledborough_, arose _Marcely Hill_ to an exceeding heighth, and moving along bury’d all whate’re it met with, after which manner it continu’d for the space of three days, to the great terror of all that beheld it. 9. _Chilane_; 10. _Acos_; 11. _Pomata_, and some others, all of them good Towns, but not so considerable as those other. [Sidenote: Roads and High-ways made by the _Ingas_.] Concerning the Roads or High-ways, it may well be said, That none of the seven Wonders of the World can compare with any one of them; neither was the Way that _Appius Claudius_ made from _Rome_ to _Brundusium_, upon the repairing of which the Emperors _Julius_ and _Augustus_ spent great sums of Money, fit to stand in competition with the Roads made by the _Ingas_ in _Peru_: for who cannot but admire at the consideration of so many Valleys fill’d with Mountains, the hardest Rocks cut asunder, Moors damm’d up, great Stone Bridges laid over swift gliding Streams, and through vast Wildernesses a Way made of twenty Foot broad, inclos’d in high Walls, extending from _Quito_ to _Chilo_, a thousand Leagues, and at the end of every ten Leagues brave Houses or Magazines, stor’d with Bowes, Arrows, Halberds, Axes, Clubs, Clothes, and Provision for twenty or thirty thousand Men. Some relate, that _Guainacava_, when he return’d Victor from the conquer’d Countrey _Quito_, suffer’d great Inconveniences on the pathless Mountains, and thereupon Commanded his Subjects to make the fore-mention’d Way. But it is more probable, that this Master-piece was not the work of one _Inga_, especially since besides the Way from _Chili_ to _Quito_ there leads another through the Mountains over the Plains from _Cusco_ to _Quito_, forty Foot broad, and five hundred Leagues long, inclos’d within two Walls. [Sidenote: The manner of the _Peruvian_ Registers.] The _Peruvians_ relate from the testimony of the _Quipos_, much more concerning these High-Ways, and other Buildings on them, made by _Guainacava_. These _Quipos_ are Rowls of divers colour’d Strings, full of all manner of Knots, which serve in stead of Characters to keep their Chronicles; in which were employ’d the _Quipo-Camayos_, who being in the nature of our Secretaries, Registred all Transactions, performing the same with the several Strings and Buttons, with which they gave Obligations, Discharges, and the like: but besides the _Quipos_ they also us’d Rings full of little Stones for the same purpose; and knew with _Maiz_-Seed how to cast up an Account as well as the best Arithmetician with Figures. Their Account of Time hung on the twelve Pillars _Succanga_, erected on a Mountain beyond _Cusco_ by the Inga _Pachacuma_, that is, _The Regulator of the Year_, to shew the Course of the Sun, and according to that their appointed Feast-days, times of Sowing and Harvest: Their Year begins in _December_. [Sidenote: The present State of _Peru_ under the _Spanish_ Government.] The _Spanish_ Government in the Kingdom of _Peru_ is setled at present in great tranquility and splendor. The Vice-Roy, who keeps a splendid Court in _Lima_, otherwise call’d _Los Reyos_, Commands over _Chili_ and _Terra Firma_, and never comes abroad without a Guard of forty Halberdeers: when he travels by Land he is accompanied by the Arch-bishop, and guarded by his forty Halberdeers, a hundred Pike-men, and fifty Musquetteers. His Reign is generally not above six or eight years, during which time he receives forty thousand Ducats _per Annum_ out of the King’s Exchequer. [Sidenote: The present flourishing Condition of the City _Los Reyos_.] The City _Los Reyos_ hath been of late years very much enlarg’d and brought to a most flourishing Condition, being exceeding populous, and extending four Miles in length, and half as much in breadth: In the biggest Market-place is the City Hall and the Exchange, where all things are brought to be sold. Of the other three Markets, two have their Denominations from _St. Anne_ and _St. Jacob_; the fourth is call’d _El Santo de los Cavallos_, because nothing but Mules, Asses, and Horses are sold there. The chief Church is Consecrated to _St. John_ the Evangelist; the other Three to _Marcellus_, _Sebastian_, and _Anna_. The _Franciscans_ inhabit three Cloysters; the _Dominicans_, _Augustines_, and Monks _De la Merced_, each of them two, besides two costly Structures for the _Jesuits_. Other Orders have also five Cloysters here, _viz._ the _Creation_, _Conception_, the _Holy Trinity_, _St. Joseph_, and _St. Clara_; the three first have each of them a Church built hard by the several Cloysters, Dedicated to the _Santas Virgines del Montserratto_, _Del Prado_, and _De Loretto_. Each Cloyster contains above two hundred and fifty either Monks or Nuns. Here are also four large Hospitals, the chiefest whereof call’d _Andrias_, hath seldom less than four hundred Sick, which are kept and cur’d on Charity. The second is for _Peruvians_ onely, call’d _The Hospital of St. Anna_. The third, built in honor of the Apostle _St. Peter_, is for poor old Clergy-men. The fourth, nam’d _The House of Love_, is for sick Women. Besides these there stands another Structure near the Walls of the City, Consecrated to _Lazarus_, where those that have the Leprosie are cur’d. The House call’d _The Holy-Ghost_, receives all sick and wounded Sea-men. The King maintains twenty four Students at his own Charge in the Royal Colledge, and the Arch-bishop as many in the Colledge call’d _St. Toronius_; but in the Colledge of _St. Martin_ reside above six hundred, which are brought up in all manner of Arts and Sciences. Two hundred Students are also taught in the high School, where they chuse a new Governor every year. Here also is kept the King’s Treasure, and the Court of Inquisition. The River which washes the City Walls runs so exceeding swift, that not long since it carried away a new Stone Bridge with nine great Arches. [Sidenote: Miracles reported to have been done by _Ramirez_.] The _Dominican_ Monks were the first that Landed on _Peru_, the first which came thither with _Francisco Pizarro_ being _Vincent de Valle Verde_, who was follow’d by _Sancio Martino_, _Martino de Esquivele_, _Dominico de Sancto Thoma_, _Pedro Ulloa_, _Alphonso de Montenegro_, _Reynaldo Pedraza_, and many others, who were stirr’d up by the report of the _Peruvian_ Riches; amongst whom were four _Franciscans_, viz. _Pedro Portuguese_, _Jodoco de los Angelos_, _De la Cruiz_, and _De Sant Anna_, who were soon after follow’d by twelve Monks of the _Augustine_ Order. _Anno 1552._ Landed also at _Los Reyos_, Colonel _Andreas Salazar_, accompanied with _Antonio Lozano_, _Juan de Sancto Petro_, _Hieronymo Melendez_, _Didaco Palamino_, _Pedro de Espeda_, _Andreas Ortega_, _Juan Canto_, _Juan Chamorro_, _Francisco de Treyas_, _Juan Ramirez_, and _Balthazar Melgarego_. _Salazar_ soon after his Arrival sent the Priest _Juan Ramirez_, and _Balthazar Melganego_ to _Guamachuco_, where he Baptiz’d and Instructed the Inhabitants in great numbers. Afterwards travelling to _Moyabamba_, he got a great esteem amongst those Idolaters, and (as it goes for currant amongst them) wrought many Miracles, amongst which this is reported for one: He being inform’d by an old _Peruvian_, that his Daughter nam’d _Curi_ had hid several Idols; enquiring after it, he tax’d her with what her Father had told him; which she denying, and being rebuk’d by _Ramirez_, is said to have become immediately dumb, to have foam’d at the Mouth, at last falling down dead like a second _Saphira_ in the presence of many, which caus’d many to forsake their Idolatry. But the Necromancers endeavor’d by all means possible to raise a disesteem on _Ramirez_, and with the assistance of their Master the Devil, so wrought their Inchantments, that the Tygers came in great Herds out of the Wildernesses to _Moyabamba_, and devour’d not onely Men, Women and Children in the Highways, but also tore them out of their Houses, yet did not the least hurt to any _Spaniard_; whereupon _Ramirez_ valiantly went with a Company of his Proselytes to a Herd of Tygers, which when he approached held the Cross to them, which it seems so affrighted the Devil-Tygers, that they climb’d up the Trees. They farther relate (if you will believe them) to make the Miracle the greater, That _Ramirez_ call’d to the Multitude, saying, _Go and revenge the Deaths of your devour’d Parents, Children and Relations_; whereupon he throwing a Stone, and all the rest following his Example, the Tygers leap’d out of the Trees, stood still, and suffer’d themselves to be kill’d like Lambs. Six years after the fore-mention’d twelve _Augustine_ Monks follow’d eleven others, who set Sail out of the _Spanish_ Haven _St. Lucar_, and arriving at _Peru_ went to the Village _Tauca_, where they broke the Image of the Goddess _Huarella_, being as it were the _Peruvian Venus_, or Patroness of amorous Delights, reported to have given Responses from the Wood in which she was worshipp’d. They also destroy’d the Idol _Chanca_ in the Countrey _Conchucos_, which being worshipp’d by the _Indians_ in the shape of a Man, had yearly a fair Maid, aged fourteen years, given to him in Marriage, a solemn Wedding being kept, and several Sheep kill’d. [Sidenote: The Miracle of an _Augustine_ Monk.] The _Augustine_ Monks are believ’d to have wrought also another Miracle in the Province _Conchucos_, upon this occasion: A Conjurer call’d _Chaumango_, boasted himself to be _God_, deny’d our _Saviour_, in testimony whereof he gave out that he would kick a Mountain to pieces, with his Foot; which Report spreading all over the Countrey, all the adjacent People flock’d to see this strange Wonder on an appointed Day, on which _Charimango_ being, it seems, as good as his word, and kicking the Mountain, caus’d it to rent from the top to the bottom, and the pieces to flie all about the People, who were exceedingly amaz’d; but the Sorcerer upon the _Augustine_ Monk’s rebuking him was (as they affirm) immediately eaten up with Worms. [Illustration: CHILI] Many other Stories of Miracles go currant amongst them, as of _Marco Garcia_ and _Didaco Ortez_ driving the Devil from a white Stone which hung over a Fountain in _Chiquipalpa_, and several others, but it would be very impertinent to dwell too long upon Discourses of this nature, especially since we are not oblig’d to make them a part of our Creed. To conclude our Description of this famous Kingdom of _Peru_, the People thereof at the _Spaniards_ first Arrival viewing their Shipping, their Guns, and other Accoutrements, unknown to them before, had them in great admiration, as Men descended from Heaven; but when they began to be oppress’d by their Tyranny, and to be tortur’d by them, they look’d upon them as the Spawn of Hell, and curs’d the Sea that had brought so wicked a People to them. [Illustration] CHAP. V. Chile. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Chile_.] Following the Coast of _Mare del Zur_, or the South Sea, the next great Province pertaining formerly to the Kingdom of _Peru_, is that of _Chile_. This is the most Southerly Province of the whole Countrey of _America_, reaching up as far as the _Magellane_ Straights, with which to the Southward it is bounded; Northward it hath a Desart, and an undiscover’d Countrey lying betwixt it and the Confines of _Peru_, call’d _Atacama_; on the West it hath _Mare del Zur_; and on the East, up to _Rio de la Plata_, the _Atlantick_, or North Sea, with some Countreys undiscover’d, which interpose betwixt it and _Paraguay_ to the North-East: It lieth all of it beyond the _Tropick_ of _Capricorn_, in a temperate _Zone_, and extendeth it self in length from the Borders of _Peru_, to the Mouth of the _Straights_ five hundred Leagues or more; but the breadth of it neither equal nor certain: They say ’tis call’d _Chile_ from the word _Chil_, which signifies _Cold_ it seems in their Language as well as ours, it being generally a cold and bleak Countrey, the Air in many parts of it so extreamly sharp and piercing, that both Horse and Rider sometimes in travelling are frozen to death, as the _Spaniards_ found by experience in their first Search and Discovery of the Countrey, under the Conduct of _Diego Almagro_, who is said to have left the greatest part of his Men dead behind him: But this is chiefly towards the _Andes_, and on the Sea-Coast, the more Inland parts of it, though mountainous also in some parts, yet are more temperate, and being also well water’d with Rivers, are much more fruitfull than the other, affording both Wheat and _Maiz_, and likewise other Grain, excellent Pasturage in many places, and great store of Cattel, Wine, Honey, and not without many and rich Mines both of Gold and Silver. [Sidenote: _Pedro Baldivia_ taken Prisoner and put to death by the _Arucans_.] The Natives of this Countrey were found to be the most stout and warlike of all the _Americans_ that the _Spaniards_ had hitherto met withal, fighting with them, and oftentimes defeating them in the open Field, surprizing and sacking their Towns, and last of all taking their Captain and Commander in Chief Prisoner: This was _Pedro Baldivia_, one of those good Men that consented to the death of _Attabaliba_, the last King of _Peru_, after a greater Ransom accepted and paid, then perhaps the King of _Spain_ could well raise on a sudden, if he had occasion to use it for himself. The _Arucans_ (for so are the People call’d that had him Prisoner) are said to have Entertain’d him for a while with great Jollity and Feasting, but for his last Draught gave him a Cup of melted Gold, which the poor Man was forc’d to take down, and so died a cruel, though costly Death. The whole Province generally is divided first into _Chile_, specially so call’d, and secondly _Magellanica_, or that part which lieth more Southward down to the _Straights_ of _Magellan_. SECT. II. Chile, properly so call’d. [Sidenote: The Bounds of _Chile_ specially so call’d.] _Chile_, specially so call’d, is border’d Northward with the Desart and barren Countrey of _Atacama_ above mention’d; on the South, with _Magellanica_; on the West, with _Mare del Zur_; Eastward, and to the North-East, with some parts of _Paraguay_, or rather with some undiscover’d Countreys lying betwixt them both: The length of it from North to South is reckon’d to be little less than three hundred Leagues, and generally of a fruitful Soil, affording besides abundance of Gold and Silver, both Corn, Cattel, Vineyards, and divers sorts of Fruits, equal both for kind and plenty to _Spain_ it self, and sundry other parts of _Europe_. The Air likewise temperate, and the People in their Manners and Conditions come much nearer to the Civility, and likewise subtilty of the _Europeans_, than other _Americans_ did; which doubtless may be attributed to the conformity of the Climates under which they lie, agreeable to those of _Europe_; though otherwise in respect of the Sphere and Seasons of the Year, there be a diametrical difference betwixt us; As for Example, their _Spring_ beginning in _September_, which is our _Autumn_, and their _Autumn_ in _March_, which is our _Spring_; their longest Day being that of _St. Lucy_, on the eleventh of _December_, which is our shortest; and their shortest being _St. Barnabas_, _viz._ the eleventh of _June_, which is our longest, _&c._ [Sidenote: Towns and Places of Importance.] The Towns of chiefest note and importance in this Province, are 1. _Gopiapo_, an old Town in the most Northerly parts of this Province towards the Sea, where it hath a very commodious Haven belonging to it. 2. _La Serena_, a Town situate on the Banks of _Coquimbo_, a pleasant River a little above its Influx into the Sea, built by _Baldivia_ in the Year 1544. the Countrey about very rich in Mines of Gold, and the Town it self so well Garrison’d for fear of the Natives, that when the _English_ under Sir _Francis Drake_, about fourscore years since, attempted the gaining of the Place, they found hot Service of it, being stoutly resisted and beaten back again to their Ships, by a Sally of no less than three hundred good Horse and two hundred Foot. 3. _St. Jago_, the principal Town of the Province, a Bishop’s See, and the ordinary Residence of the Governor, lying on the Banks of the River _Tapocalma_, in the thirty fourth Degree of Southern Latitude, fifteen Leagues distant from the South Sea, at which it hath a very commodious and much frequented Haven, which they call _Valparayso_, and where the _English_ met with better fortune, as hath been said already in the report of Sir _Francis Drake_’s Voyage. 4. _La Conception_, a strong Town, seated on the Bay call’d _Penco_, sixty or seventy Leagues distant from _St. Jago_ towards the South, a Place not a little fortifi’d both by Nature and Art, having the Bay and a certain Ridge of high Mountains begirting it almost round about; and where it is otherwise accessible, a Castle, and certain Bulwarks with Ordnance, besides a Garrison of five hundred Soldiers at least continually in it, and all little enough to defend it against the _Araucanes_, their deadly Enemies, who live thereabouts, and are ever and anon making Incursions almost up to the Walls of it. Over against this Place in _Mare del Zur_, but very near the Shore, there lieth a certain Island call’d _St. Maries_, exceeding plentiful in Swine and all sorts of Poultrey, which the Garrison of _La Conception_ make good use of. [Illustration: MAGELLANCICA.] 5. _Los Confines_, a Fronteer Town, built by the aforesaid _Baldivia_, for defence of the rich Mines of Gold at _Angol_, a Place near adjoyning. 6. _La Imperiale_, another strong Garrison of this Place on the Banks of the River _Cauten_, near to which that great Battel was fought, where _Baldivia_, with divers other Soldiers, were taken Prisoners, who were no otherwise overcome, but by being over-wearied with killing of their Enemies, and by that means not able to make their Retreat. 7. _Villarica_, another Colony of the _Spaniards_ in these Parts, sixteen Leagues distant from _Imperiale_, and twenty five from the Sea. 8. _Baldivia_, so nam’d from the Commander _Pedro Baldivia_, who built it in the Valley of _Guadallanquen_, two or three Leagues distant from the Sea, where it hath a good and capacious Port; but nearer to it the best Mines of _Peru_, so rich, that ’tis said they yielded _Baldivia_ every day so long as he could enjoy them, twenty five thousand Crowns. 9. _Osorno_, a Town lying in the Bay of _Chilue_ in a barren Soil, but otherwise neither less rich, nor less populous than _Baldivia_ it self. These three last mention’d Towns, _viz._ _Baldivia_, _Imperiale_, and _Osorno_, were in the Years 1596, 1699, and 1604, surpriz’d by the _Araucanes_, and other Salvages confederate with them, sack’d and burnt; and though the _Spaniards_ be said to have recover’d and Garrison’d some of them with fresh Soldiers, yet how long they were able to hold them, or whether they be Masters of them at this day, we cannot say. 10. _Castro_, the most Southerly Town of the whole Province, built on a certain Island within the Bay of _Chilue_. 11. _Mendoza_; and 12. _St. Juan de la Frontera_, both which lie towards _Paraguay_ and _Rio de la Plata_, but on the other side of the _Andes_, forty Leagues distant from any of those we have spoken of, and perhaps more, not above a hundred from _Buenos Ayres_, and the _Atlantick_ Ocean. SECT. III. Magellanica. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Magellanica_.] [Sidenote: Sea-Port, Towns, Isles, and Straights.] _Magellanica_, the other part of this Province, is bounded Northward, with _Chile_ abovesaid, and some parts of the Countrey _De la Plata_; on the South, with the narrow Sea call’d _Magellans Straights_; having _Mare del Zur_ on the West, and on the East the _Atlantick_ Ocean. It contains in length from the Borders of _Chile_ to the Mouth of the _Straights_, a hundred Leagues, and in breadth from the North to the South Sea, somewhat more, _viz._ towards _Chile_ and the North-West parts of it, for towards the South and South-West it straitens still more and more, insomuch that they who resemble the Southern part of _America_ to the form of a Pyramid revers’d, make this part of the Countrey to be the Spire or top thereof. It beareth the Name from _Ferdinand Magellan_, a _Portuguese_, who first discover’d that narrow Sea, so famously known by the Name of _Magellans Straights_. It is a large Countrey, and suppos’d not to be altogether barren of Metals; but as yet no great Discovery hath been made of it, partly by reason of the excessive Cold to which ’tis thought to be subject, and partly perhaps by reason of the difficulty of the Enterprize, it being so far remote, and very hardly passable in many places, by reason of the huge Mountains the _Andes_, which bar it as it were against all Adventurers; but chiefly by reason of the stoutness and untameableness of the _Araucanes_ and other Natives of _Chile_, through whose Countrey the March lieth, and who must first be conquer’d, so that very little can be said more of this Countrey, than onely to name the Ports and Places upon the Sea-Coasts, at which the _Spaniards_, and likewise some other Nations at several times have touched, the chief whereof upon the South Sea are, 1. _Cabo de las Islas_, a Promontory or Foreland, twenty six Leagues distant from that of _St. Felix_ on the Confines of _Chile_. 2. _Puerto de San Stephano_, fifty Leagues from that, towards the South. 3. _La Villa de Nuestra Sennora_, or _Our Ladies Dale_, a large and secure Bay, eighteen Leagues Southward of _St. Stephens_. 4. _La Punta Deglada_; 5. _Puerto de los Reyos_; and 6. _Ancona Sin Salida_, all of them opening towards the _Straights_. There is also at the opening of the Straights, _Cabo de la Vittoria_, _Cabo Desseado_, and some others. Upon the North Sea, and up towards _Rio de la Plata_, the chief Places observable, are 1. _Rio de la Crux_, and the Cape which they call _De las Rameras_, about thirty Leagues distant from the _Straights_ Mouth. 2. The Bay of _St. Julian_, forty Leagues Northward of the former. 3. _El Puerto Desseado_; 4. _Puerto de los Leones_; 5. The Bay of _Anegada_, all of them good and capacious Havens for the security of Shipping upon these Coasts, and lying at a distance of thirty or forty Leagues one from another, up towards _Rio de la Plata_, and the Countrey of _Paraguay_, of which we are next to speak. [Sidenote: Description of the _Magellan_ Straights.] As for the Straights themselves, so much spoken of, and likewise so necessary to be known by those who frequent these parts of the World, they are a narrow Sea or Frith, by which the _Atlantick_ Ocean, or rather some parts of it, doth fall into _Mare de Zur_, or the South Sea: the Passage is long, running, as ’tis commonly suppos’d, well nigh a hundred Leagues together, almost in a paralel Line, or in the same Degree of Latitude from one end to the other; and likewise extreamly difficult by reason of the many windings and turnings of the Sea, which force them to be ever and anon altering of their Course, and a mountainous high Countrey on both sides of it, from whence it is almost continually beaten with Storms, both dangerous and terrible: They were first discover’d by _Ferdinand Magellan_, by Nation a _Portuguese_, but in the Service of the King of _Spain_, and by him nam’d _Magellan’s Straights_; who although himself liv’d not to return into _Spain_, being slain in the Conquest of the _Molucca_ Islands, yet his Companions did, in the Ship call’d _Vittoria_, from whence the Cape _De la Vittoria_ abovesaid took its Name. The Mouth or Entrance of them, by the _Atlantick_ Ocean, lies in fifty two Degrees of Southern Latitude, and hath not above fifty three and some Minutes at the _Exit_ or opening into the South Sea. [Sidenote: The Straights of _Le Maire_.] There is likewise since this, and but of late times, _viz._ about the Year 1615. another _Straight_ discover’d by the _Dutch_, and call’d from the Discoverer _Fretum Mairi_, or _The Straights of le Maire_, four or five Degrees more to the Southward than those of _Magellan_, and suppos’d to be a much earlier and safer Passage. The Intention by the discovery of these _Straights_, was to have found a shorter Way to the _East-Indies_ and the Kingdoms of _Cathay_ and _China_, than that which was then onely us’d, _viz._ by the _Cape de Buena Speranza_, and the Coast of _Africk_, but by reason of the great difficulty, as ’tis to be suppos’d, and uncertainty of the Passage, neither the one nor the other is much frequented, the _Spaniards_ for the most part serving themselves of their _American_ Ports upon the South Sea, from whence they make their Voyages and Returns to and from the other _Indies_, and from thence home to _Spain_; and the _English_, with other Nations of _Europe_, Trading still by the Coast of _Africk_ and _Cape of Good Hope_, or else by the way of _Alexandria_ and the _Persian_ Gulf, as heretofore. [Illustration: PARAQVARIA _Vulgo_ PARAGVAY. Cum adjacentibus.] [Illustration] CHAP. VI. Paraguay, or Rio de la Plata. We have seen in _Magellanica_ the farthest, that is, the most Southerly part of the _New World_, and before it in order all the Western Coasts of _America_ that lie either upon or towards _Mare del Zur_, _viz._, from _Panama_, the first Province of this Southern part down as far as the _Straights_. We are now to return and take a view of the Eastern Coasts, and those Countreys which lie upon the _Atlantick_ Ocean, steering our Course henceforth Northward, not directly, but as the Coast leads us for a while Eastward and by North, forasmuch as the Land of _America_, from the _Straights_ of _Magellan_ up as far as _Brasile_, and almost to the _Æquator_, runneth out with a long Point, little less than three thousand Leagues together. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Paraguay_, or _Rio de la Plata_.] The first Province we meet with on this side next to _Magellanica_, is the Countrey of _Paraguay_, oftentimes call’d _Rio de la Plata_, from the Name of an huge River, which runneth for the most part through the midst of it: It is border’d, as we said, to the South and towards the _Straights_ with _Magellanica_; on the East, with the _Atlantick_ Ocean; more Northward, or to the North-East, it hath _Brasile_; and on the West those undiscover’d Countreys of the Province of _Chile_, of which we have spoken. The Countrey on both sides the River is reported to be a very lusty and fruitful Soil, bearing besides those which are proper and native, all sorts of _European_ Fruits and Grain in great abundance, with Sugar-Canes, both large and good, as any other Province of the _New World_. Nor is it excell’d by any other for good Pasturage and great Herds of Cattel, Sheep, and Swine; in particular, Horses are said to have multiply’d so here, that of thirty Mares, and about six or seven Stallions, which the _Spaniards_ left there, in forty years the whole Countrey thereabouts was fill’d with the Breed of them, running wild in great Companies together, through all the Woods and Forrests of the Countrey, and being of excellent Mettle and Service if they could be tam’d. It affordeth likewise great store of wild Deer and Stags, some Lyons, Tygers, _&c._ nor is it without good Mines, some both of Gold and Silver; but chiefly, as to what is yet discover’d, of Brass, and Iron; and the People altogether salvage. [Sidenote: The River _De la Plata_.] The River _De la Plata_, which (as we said before) divides this Countrey, is one of the largest of the whole World, rising, as ’tis suppos’d, out of the Lake call’d _De los Xarayes_, three hundred Leagues or more within Land, and falling into the _Atlantick_ Ocean, or North Sea, in thirty four Degrees of Southern Latitude, with an _Estuary_ or Mouth of thirty, or two and thirty Leagues over. The whole Countrey is usually subdivided into three inferior Provinces, which are 1. _Rio de la Plata_ properly so call’d. 2. _Tucuman._ 3. _La Crux de Sierra._ SECT. II. Rio de la Plata, properly so call’d. [Sidenote: Situation of _Rio de la Plata_, properly so call’d.] _Rio de la Plata_, properly so call’d, is that part of the Countrey which extendeth it self on both sides the River, in length many Leagues together, but not answerable in breadth. [Sidenote: Towns and Places of note.] The chiefest Towns of note in this Province, are 1. _Buenos Ayres_, by some call’d _La Trinidad_, on the Southern Banks of the River _De la Plata_, sixty four Leagues, as they say, from the Mouth of it: It is seated commodiously at the foot of a little Mountain, and fortifi’d with a Mud-Wall, a little Castle, and some Pieces of Ordnance. 2. _San Fe_, in English _St. Faiths_, fifty Leagues above _Buenos Ayres_, upon the same River, and a richer Place, chiefly by reason of their Cloth, of which there is here one of the greatest Manufactures of all these parts of _Peru_. 3. _Nuestra Sennora de la Assumption_, commonly call’d _Assumption_ onely, lying yet higher up the River almost a hundred Leagues, a well built and well frequented Town, long since inhabited by two hundred Families at least of natural _Spaniards_, besides _Mestizos_, as they call them, which are the Breed of _Spaniards_ by the _American_ People, Men or Women, and _Mulattos_, which are likewise their Race, but begotten upon _Negro_’s, of both which there are reckon’d to be here some thousands. 4. _La Cividad Real_, or more commonly call’d _Ontiveros_, fourscore Leagues Northward from _Assumption_, seated on the Banks of the River _Parana_ in a fruitful Soil, as the Countrey generally is about all these Places; but the Air hereabouts is not so healthful. 5. _St. Anne_, upon the same River; and 6. _St. Salvador._ SECT. III. Tucuman. [Sidenote: Situation of _Tucuman_.] Westward of _La Plata_ lieth the Countrey of _Tucuman_, extending it self as far as the Borders of _Chile_, a Countrey not yet well discover’d either to the North or the South. That part of it which lieth towards _Chile_ is well Manur’d and Husbanded, and likewise very fruitful; but that towards _Magellanica_, neither the one, nor the other, remaining altogether untill’d and barren. [Sidenote: Towns and chief Places of note.] The chief Towns and Places of note, are 1. _St. Jago de Esteco_, the principal Town of the Province, and a Bishop’s See, seated upon the River _Esteco_, a hundred and fourscore Leagues distant from _Buenos Ayres_. 2. _St. Michael de Tucuman_, seated at the foot of a huge rocky Mountain, but otherwise in a Soil the fruitfullest and best, both for Corn and Pasturage, in all this Countrey, twenty eight Leagues distant from _St. Jago_. 3. _Talavera_, or _Nuestra Sennora de Talavera_, as the _Spaniards_ call it, situate upon the Banks of _Salado_, in a good Soil, and inhabited by an industrious People, grown exceeding rich and wealthy, chiefly by their Manufactures of Cotton-Wooll, whereof they have great plenty, and by which they drive a Trade as far as the Mines at _Potosi_, and other parts of _Peru_. [Illustration: BRASILIA.] 4. _Corduba_, another rich Town of this Province, and of great Trade, as lying at an equal distance, _viz._ of fifty Leagues, both From _San Fe_, as they call it, or _St. Faiths_ in the Province of _La Plata_ abovesaid, and from _St. Juan de la Frontera_ in the Country of _Chile_, and almost in the Road-way from _Potosi_ and those parts of _Peru_, to _Buenos Ayres_ and the North Sea. 5. _Chocinoca_; 6. _Sococha_; 7. _Calebinda_; 8. _Morata_, and others, but belonging for the most part to the reduced Natives. SECT. IV. La Crux de Sierra. [Sidenote: Situation of _La Crux de Sierra_.] _La Crux de Sierra_ is a little Territory (at least in comparison to some others) lying towards _Peru_, and reckon’d by some for one of the Provinces of _Peru_: It lieth betwixt the two great Rivers _Paraguay_ and _Guapay_, a hundred Leagues distant, as ’tis said, from _Charcas_, to which yet in some Causes it is subordinate. The Soil of this Countrey is abundantly fertile in all sorts of _American_ Fruits, besides good plenty both of Wheat and _Maiz_, and scarsity of nothing useful for Man’s Life, unless it be fresh Water in some places. [Sidenote: Chief Towns of this Province.] The chief Towns of this Province, are 1. _San Crux_, situate at the foot of a great Mountain or Hill, but opening upon a large Plain, whose thirsty driness is well refresh’d by a certain Brook or Torrent, which issueth out of a neighboring Mountain, and a few Leagues distant from the Town maketh a pretty Lake, which supplieth the Countrey thereabouts, both with fresh Water and Fish in good plenty. 2. _Barranea_, a Town suppos’d to be not above threescore Leagues distant from _Potosi_. 3. _Nova Rioia_, once a Colony of _Spaniards_, but sack’d and spoil’d by the Salvages of these Parts about the Year 1548. and the first Discoverer of the Countrey, namely _Nunno de Chaves_, treacherously murder’d by a Native, since which time ’tis said to have been deserted. [Illustration] CHAP. VII. Brasile. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Brasile_.] [Sidenote: _Pedro Alvarez Capralis_ his Expedition to _Brasile_.] _Brasile_ by _Capralis_ call’d _San Cruz_, because it was discover’d on the Day dedicated to the holy Cross, but generally _Brasile_, from the red Wood, which it produces in great abundance, extends, according to the Account of the _Portuguese_, between the Rivers _Maranon_ and _De la Plata_: But according to the Division which Pope _Alexander_ the Sixth made upon the Approbation of the Kings of _Castile_ and _Portuguese_, _Brasile_ extends not so far; for it begins in the North along the Stream _Para_, and ends at the River _Capybora_, two Leagues beyond the Town _St. Vincent_: Eastward it is wash’d by the Northern Ocean, and on the West separated from _Peru_ by desolate Mountains: It lies between 4 and 22 Degrees of Southern Latitude. Historiographers differ much concerning the first Discoverer; but without contradiction the first honor belongs justly to _Americus Vesputius_, who being sent out by _Ferdinand_, King of _Castile_, in the Year 1497. arriv’d first with four Sail at _Brasile_; whither he was follow’d two years after by _Vincent Aynez Pinzon_, Associate to _Christopher Columbus_; but with ill success, for two of the Ships were cast away in a Storm, and the other two return’d sadly weather-beaten into the _Spanish_ Haven _Palos_, yet not before he had made a farther Discovery of _Brasile_ than _Americus Vesputius_; which so stirr’d up _Emanuel_, King of _Portugal_, that he sent _Pedro Alvarez Capralis_ thither with five hundred Men in thirteen Ships, that so he might get sure footing on _Brasile_; where Landing he erected a Stone Cross, and inform’d the King of his whole Proceedings by _Gasper Lemnius_, with whom he sent over two _Brasilians_, a Man a Woman, the strangeness of whose Garb caus’d great admiration in _Portugal_ amongst the Spectators: the Man, having a flat Nose, went stark naked, and in his nether Lip hung a Stone call’d _Matara_; through each Check there was stuck a piece of _Brasile_ Wood, on his Shoulders he carry’d three long Darts, and on his Head he wore divers colour’d Feathers; the Hair about his Privities was all pluckt out, and his _Membrum Virile_ ty’d about with a String call’d _Tacoaynhaa_, which he unty’d when he Urin’d; his Body was strong and well proportion’d, and painted with several Colours. The Woman wore a Lappet girt about her Middle, in which Girdle stuck a Cane Tobacco-pipe; the Lappet reach’d just to the top of her Knees, the rest of her Body was also naked; on her Head she wore a broad Hat made of Feathers, on the top of which stuck two Plumes; in her Ears hung Bells, and about her Neck three Strings of Pearl; and her Body was also painted with red and yellow Colours. _Lemnius_ also gave so much Information concerning the fruitfulness of _Brasile_, that several _Portuguese_ Families went thither, accompanied with some _Italian_ Fryers, which scattering up and down, began to build several Villages, but were soon after most of them kill’d and eaten up by the _Indians_. [Illustration] _Anno 1549._ King _John_ the Third fitted out a great Fleet, which set Sail from _Lisbon_ under the Command of _Thomas de Sosa_. [Sidenote: _Jesuits_ sent to _Brasile_ by Pope _Paulus_ the Third and _Ignatius_.] Also the Jesuits _Aspilcueta_, _Antonio Pireo_, _Leonardo Nonno_, _Didaco Jacobo_, _Vincent Roderico_, and _Emanuel Robrega_, were sent thither by Pope _Paulus_ the Third, and _Ignatius Loyola_, whose Fleet came to an Anchor in the Bay afterwards call’d _Bahia de Todos Sanctos_, where _Sosa_ built the City _Salvador_; since which the _Portuguese_ have spread themselves farther and farther over _Brasile_. [Sidenote: Temperature of the Climate.] The _United Netherlands_ also sent Colonies thither with good success, for they took several vast Countreys from the _Portuguese_, by force of Arms, and built new Forts and Towns in several places. But we will first give you a general Description of it, that so we may the better render a Relation in particular of every Province thereof, it being a considerable part of the _New World_, and both pleasant and fruitful, and the Sea-Coasts refresh’d by Easterly Winds, which begin before Day-break, when the North Sea ebbs or flows, for then the Wind rises with the Sun, and continues till Mid-night: Towards the West, where the Mountains divide _Brasile_ from _Peru_, it is made temperate by Westerly Winds, which though judg’d unwholsom, because they seem to arise out of the Moorish Grounds, yet they hurt not the Inhabitants along that Coast, because they either break against the high Mountains, or are driven by the strong Wind which blows from the Sea. The difference between Summer and Winter, shorter and longer Days, in the main part of _Brasile_, is scarce discernable, warm Weather lasting all the year round; and for the length of the Day and Night, the Sun being hid under the Horizon twelve hours, shines for the most part just as long, the greatest difference never being above an hour. Three hours before Day-break the Dew makes it exceeding cold till Sun-rising; wherefore the _Brasilians_ make Fires in the Night near their Hammocks, not onely to keep wild Beasts from them, but also against the Cold. After the coldest Nights follow the fairest Days, and the contrary after sultry Nights; nevertheless (except in the rainy Season, which begins with _March_ and ends about _August_) the Skye is generally clear, yet it Lightens much towards the Evening. Rainbowes often appear in the Skye, and bout the Moon _Halos_. The Rain generally falls in great Drops, and with a mighty noise; before which it is generally very sultry hot, or else soon after. The Dew, which is fruitfuller than in _Europe_, is saltish, which makes it oft to rot things that lie in the open Air. During the rainy Moneths, a South-East Winds blows from a cloudy Skye, much stronger than the Northern in Summer. The South-East Wind drives the Stream to the North, as the North Wind drives it to the South: And more than this, there is little to be discern’d of the Seas ebbing and flowing hereabouts: At the highest Tides the _Brasilians_ go several Leagues from the Shore to Fish, upon Planks made of the spungy Wood call’d _Jangada_ fastned together. The Sea, which seems to burn in the Night, is so clear in the Day, that the Fish may be seen to swim above twenty Fathom deep. A calm Ocean when the Days and Nights are of an exact length, and especially when dark Clouds appear, is a certain sign of a dreadful Storm. At Full or New-Moon the Sea rises twelve Foot, and continues either a longer or shorter time, according as it is more or less turbulent, and the Rivers fall stronger or more gently into the same. Before most part of the Coast of _Brasile_ lies a Stone Cliff of above twenty or thirty Paces broad, which is never cover’d with Water, though in the time of Spring-floods. In this Cliff Nature in several places hath made a Gap, through which the Ships sail near the Shore, and ride safe at an Anchor. The whole Countrey of _Brasile_ is divided into thirteen _Præfectures_, or Lordships, and hath about as many Rivers, which more or less empty themselves into every one of these Countreys. The Eastern part hath several Brooks and Fountains, which afford good Water both for Man and Beast. In some parts the Water is so strong, that the wild Beasts making themselves Drunk therewith, are easily taken. During the Winter Season the Rivers glide with great force, and swell on a sudden, overflowing all the neighboring Countrey, onely the River _San Francisco_ runs strongest and rises highest in the Summer Season, whenas in the Winter it flows low, and poures but little Water into the Ocean. The original of this River is as yet unknown, yet is by most believ’d to come out of a great Lake lying near the _Peruvian_ Mountains: The _Hollanders_, who sail’d forty Leagues up the same, found it every where broad and deep, and scatter’d full of Isles and Rocks. The _Portuguese_ sailing ten Leagues farther, discover’d the great Rocks _Cocoeras_, from which the said River falls down with great violence, and extends it self North-West. In the other _Brasilian_ Streams, though wide at the Mouthes, which generally are not above two or three hours walking from their Fountains or Springs, no Barque is able to Row up, they being exceeding shallow, although much Rain falls into them; the reason whereof is because the barren Mountains lying between _Brasile_ and _Peru_, discharge abundance of Water through the Rivers of _Amazones_, _Maranon_, _Francisco_, _La Plata_, and the _Juaeiro_, with such force into the Ocean, that they keep their sweetness for thirty Leagues. Near the Sea side are several Lakes and Pits which are drinkable, and others up in the Countrey that are brackish. [Sidenote: The Nature of the Soil.] The Countrey differs exceedingly, for where it extends in Plains the Soil is fat and clayie, and produces all sorts of Fruit, but especially Sugar-Canes. During the rainy Seasons the Trees flourish most; after which the heat of the Sun, and fertility of the Soil speedily ripen the Fruit: wherefore they Dung not their Land, but on the contrary endeavor to make it lean with Sand, that the Plants might not have too many Leaves, and wither before the Fruit can be ripened. They Sowe in the beginning of the rainy Moneths, and especially take care that the Seed lie not too deep in the Ground, because then the Sun-beams being not able to come at it, suffer it to perish in the cold Ground. The high _Cocoa_ and _Palmito_-Trees, are transplanted all the year round, the Roots being onely cover’d with a little Earth, because they can endure no cold. Several Trees here bear a cooling Fruit, as if kind Nature took care to provide against excessive heat. [Sidenote: Description of the _Tamanda_.] All manner of Plants and Herbs brought hither from _Angola_, _Portugal_, the _Netherlands_, and the _East-Indies_, grow here very plentifully. But the Countrey generally would be much better, if some way could be found out to destroy the innumerable company of Pismires, which though three times bigger than the _European_, resemble them very much, and cover the Paths in Woods and Fields for three or four Miles together; and raising Hillocks, make them hollow, and fill them with Corn: in the Full of the Moon they gather an incredible quantity of Grain, which they bite at each end, because it should not sprout: against the rainy Moneths they stop up their Holes, that the Water may not damnifie their Store. But these Animals have a mortal Enemy of the _Tamanda_, of which there are two sorts, the bigger call’d _Guaca_; the lesser _Miri_; the _Guaca_, notwithstanding it is no bigger than an ordinary Dog, yet it destroys Tygers, and other wild Beasts, with such a raging fury, that it never lets go what once it hath got hold of, but holds it fast so long till sometimes it dies of Hunger. The _Guaca_ differing from the _Miri_ onely in bigness, hath a broad Tail full of grey and black Bristles, which sticks up when he is vex’d, but when he goes to sleep, covers himself with the same. The _Miri_ winds his long smooth Tail about the Boughs, by which hanging he searches the Holes in the Trees with his Tongue, which being thin and round, hath a Gutter in the middle, in which when it feels any Pismires, it suddenly swallows them down: If he perceives them to have their Nests under Ground, then he scratches up the Earth, and puts his Tongue in at the Holes. Both the _Guaca_ and _Miri_ have a thick Skin, and a broad black Streak from their Breasts on each side up half way their Bodies, and through the black runs also a white Streak. No Beast in the World is hardier than this, for though it fasts twelve days, and is afterwards flay’d alive, yet it will live several hours after. [Sidenote: The Plant _Manyle_.] [Sidenote: Description of the Tree _Ibriptanga_.] [Sidenote: The Tree _Tatai-iba_.] The Lakes in _Brasile_ are for the most part overgrown with Weeds just like a Field, yet are exceeding full of Fish and Fowl. Where the Sea runs into the Lakes, great multitudes of Crabs are seen crawling along the Ground, and the Oysters hang in Clusters on the Boughs of a Plant call’d _Manyle_ or _Mangues_, which grow with their Roots either near or in the Water, in such a manner, that new Bodies still shoot from the old Roots, which prevents easie access to the chief Plant, on whose uppermost Leaves after Sun-rising sticks very white Salt, which in the Night, or in a cloudy Day turns to a brackish Dew. Moreover, those places where _Brasile_ rises with Hills and Mountains, are likewise very fruitful, except the barren tops of some, which seem to kiss the Skyes; and though the fruitful Mountains flourish in the time of the rainy Months, yet many of the Trees which grow on them die in Summer, and their Ashes being burnt by the Inhabitants, are us’d in stead of Dung. Some Woods extend themselves three hundred Leagues in length, and are full of Trees, so tall, that an Arrow shot upwards falls short of the top of them, and a Boat may be made out of the Body, which can carry a hundred and fifty Men. On the great Boughs of these mighty Trees grow other excrescent Shrubs after the manner of Misseltoe, which proceed from the Kernels swallow’d and muted upon them by the Birds that light there. In some places also grow also Sweet-wood Trees, which afford either excellent Gums or Wood to Dye with; amongst which the chief is the _Ibiripitanga_, which yields the _Brasile_ Wood, that gives Denomination of _Brasile_ to this vast Tract of Land. The Tree _Ibripitanga_ is tall and spreading, hath sad colour’d Bark full of short Thorns; the Leaves are green, and differ in form but little from the Box-Tree Leaf; the Boughs shoot forth other lesser, full of yellow and sweet-smelling Flowers, which falling off are succeeded by a flat long Cod, of a dark grey colour, full of little red Pulse; the upper part of the Tree is not good to Dye with, but onely the lower part of the Body, which because the Tree grows far up in the Countrey, is not transportable without much trouble. But the _Tatai-iba_ grows in the Woods along the Shore; the Bark being of an Ash-colour, invests a yellow Wood; the Leaves are sharp and notch’d, the Fruit not unlike Mulberries, pale, juicy, and full of white Seed; the Wood boyl’d Dyes a pure Yellow. It is observable not onely of this Tree, but generally of the Trees of this Countrey, that they neither flourish, nor shed their Leaves all over at once, nor do several Trees of the same kind, and growing here germinate or fade together; for whilest one is fullest of Blossoms, the other is without Leaves; and whilest the same Tree sheds its Leaves on one side, the other side is newly Budded. The _European_ Plants and Herbs with soft Roots, being once Planted in _Brasile_, come to be hard and lignifi’d. There is also great difference, according to the Ground in which they are Planted; for such Plants and Trees as in the Plains are but small and tender, grow ten times higher if Planted in the Woods. All sorts of _Indian_ Pulse grow higher than the tallest Trees, like high Arbors, under which both Men and Beasts may shelter themselves from the Sun or Rain. We find not upon Record or Tradition, that _Brasile_ was ever troubled with an Earthquake, which is the reason that it hath neither Silver nor Gold-Mines, because sulphurous Fires are found under Ground, which are a cause of the production of Gold and Silver, so likewise they occasion Earthquakes: yet in that part of _Brasile_ call’d _Ceara_, there are some Mines of Silver, out of which the _Hollanders_ would have got greater Riches, had not they been employ’d in the Wars against the _Portuguese_. [Illustration] Far up into the Countrey amongst the Mountains, inhabit _Canibals_, or Man-eaters. The _Europeans_ that first travell’d that way, found the Countrey very fertile and full of People, especially in the Valleys, but somewhat incommoded by the want of Water, and the excessiveness of the Heat in the Day, and of the Cold in the Night. In some places the Countrey is so over-grown with Brambles, that they are forc’d to cut their way through the same. But there are a sort of Thistles, which having concave Leaves, receive the Dew and Rain for the accommodation of the Natives. Besides Serpents and Dragons, the Tygers are most of all to be fear’d when hungry, but once satisfi’d are easily taken. Dogs, Oxen, Sheep, and Horses thrive also exceedingly in most parts of _Brasile_. [Sidenote: The Nature of the _Brasilians_.] The _Brasilians_ live to be very old without being Bald or Grey: There are seldom or never to be seen squint-ey’d, lame, decrepid, or any deformed People, notwithstanding the Children are never Swath’d but thrown into cold Water as soon as born. The Men generally have a very near resemblance one with another, as also the Women, so that there is not such a difference betwixt Man and Man there, as amongst other People. There is scarce any Sickness heard of in these Parts; for besides a long Life, they enjoy the benefit of Health so long as they live. They trouble not themselves with much Business; and in one Hut, whose Covering consists of Palm-Leaves, dwell several Families together. [Sidenote: Their manner of Living.] [Sidenote: Their several sorts of Drinks.] The general Bread of the _Brasilians_ is the stamp’d Root _Mandihoka_; besides which they also eat all manner of Fruit and Plants, and many times Flesh, which they either eat boyl’d, broyl’d, or stew’d; their Boyling is after this manner: First they kindle their fire with two Sticks, the one of hard, and the other of soft Wood; the hard they make sharp at the end, and fix the same into the soft, which setting on fire they immediately lay Cotton thereupon, or else dry Leaves, and so boyl the Flesh in round Earthen Pots call’d _Camu_: but they account that better which is stew’d in a Pot, the bottom whereof is cover’d with Leaves, on which they lay the Flesh, then stopping the same close on the top with Earth and Leaves, they make Fire over it so long till they think the Flesh to be sufficiently stew’d. Their Broyling they perform by fixing forked Sticks into the Ground, over which they lay several others like a Gridiron; and upon them the raw Flesh, cut in long Slices, and Pepper’d and Salted, then make a Fire under the same till it is enough; and their Meat so dress’d keeps good fourteen days. Their Fish either boyl’d or broyl’d is eaten with the Sawce _Juquitinga_. The little Fish _Piaba_ and _Piquitinga_ they make up in Rolls, and lay them under hot Ashes. Both with their Flesh and Fish they eat for Bread, as hath been said, the Meal of the Root _Mandihoka_, which they taking up with three Fingers throw into their Mouthes so dexterously, that not the least scrap falls besides. They never observe any set hours to eat, for they make several Meals in the Day, and sometimes in the middle of the Night, if their Appetite serves, and neither drink nor speak whilest they are at their Meat. They sleep in spread Hammocks made fast between two Poles, near which burns a constant Fire with which in the Day-time they dress their Meat, and at Night keep themselves warm, the Nights being there somewhat cold, because of their equal length with the Days. Their usual Liquor is cold Water, taken out of the Fountains, Rivers, or Brooks; but to Carouse they make the Drink _Caoi_, of the Fruit of the _Ocaiiba_-Tree, which being stamp’d in a woodden Mortar, is strain’d, and at first looks like Milk, but after a few days standing turns to a darker colour, and is strong enough to make Astronomers of those that drink largely of it, but if long kept, it turns to be excellent Vinegar. They have another Drink call’d _Aipu_, which is made two several ways; the first is thus: An old Toothless Woman chews the little cut Root _Aipimacaxera_ to a Pap call’d _Caracu_, which spitting in a Pot they pour Water on the same, and afterwards boyling it leisurely, stirring it all the time it stands over the Fire. The other way of making this _Aipu_, which is much the more cleanly, is to boyl the said Root so long, till it comes to be like Butter-milk, and then letting it stand till it hath done working, it will be no unpleasant Drink. Another sort of Drink amongst them is their _Pacobi_, made of the Fruit of the Tree _Pacobehe_ and _Pacobucu_; besides others made of the Tree _Abatu_, of _Indian_ Barley and _Maiz_. Also their Liquor call’d _Jetici_ is press’d out of _Potato_-Roots. In like manner the Plant _Nana_, by the _Portuguese_ call’d _Ananas_, makes the Drink _Nanai_, which is exceeding strong and heady, but good against Faintness, Vomiting, Gravel, and stoppage of Urine, as also against Poyson. [Sidenote: Their Deboches.] The _Tapuiyans_, sur-named _Cariri_, meet at a certain time to make the Liquor _Aipu_, whereof each takes as much to his Hut as falls to his share, and when it hath done working, they begin in the Morning very early at the first House in the Village, and drink out every drop which they find there, and so from House to House till they have drunk one another drie; and he is look’d upon to be the best Man that hath drunk and evacuated most. [Sidenote: Their manner of Taking Tobacco.] The _Brasilians_ take generally very strong Tobacco, which they first drie in the Sun, and afterwards before the Fire, the better to rub it in pieces: Their Tobacco-pipe is a Cane and a hollow Nut cut off at the top, and a round Hole bor’d in the middle, into which they put the Cane. They forbear not to take Tobacco even in the midst of their religious Ceremonies, which are perform’d with Singing and Dancing in this manner: [Sidenote: Their religious Ceremonies.] The _Tapuiyans_ making a round Ring at an equal distance one from another, all of them being stark naked, tie divers colour’d Plumes of Feathers on their back-sides with a String made fast on their left Shoulders and about their Wastes; about their Legs they have Cotton Garters; each in his turn bowing to the Left, stretches down his left Hand to the Ground, and puts his right Hand in between the Strings which tie the Plume of Feathers, and stamps continually with his right Foot, whilest all the rest begin to Sing a doleful Song, which by degrees they change into a merry one, not without some appearance of understanding the Art of Musick. Their Songs contain first a mournful Relation of a general Deluge, which drowned their Predecessors, all but some few, who escap’d by climbing up high Trees and Mountains; next the Acts of those old Heroes from whom they boast themselves Extracted, who lost their Lives, or valiantly fought for the publick good, and were rewarded with the enjoyment of all pleasures and Delights, of Singing, Playing, Dancing, and the like, in a remote Countrey, whither after their Deaths they hope to be translated: Whilest they thus Sing over all their Songs, three Priests stand in the middle of the Ring, each holding the Idol _Maraka_ (in their left Hand) resembling an old Ostritch’s Egg stuck full of Feathers on the top: about their Wastes they wear a Girdle of rich Plumes, on their Heads also a Crown of Feathers; the middle Priest looks with a stern Countenance, and holds up his left Leg from the Ground, whilest the other two standing on each side of him, hold in their right Hands a Pipe, out of which blowing Tobacco-smoak in one anothers Faces, they utter these words, _Receive the Spirit of heroick Strength_: The Dance ended, they Entertain their Priests with Meat and Drink eight days together, and also put Meat before their Idol _Maraka_, who is the chief Deity they adore. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Their Arms.] Their Arms consist of Bowes made of hard Wood, Strung with twisted Cotton Thred; their Arrows they make of the Cane _Tacaara_, made very sharp at the end, or headed with some Beasts sharp Tooth, or pointed with the Bones of the Fish _Iperu_. Some of the _Tapuiyans_ use great Darts, and long Clubs of black Wood, broad before, and full of sharp Spikes; the Handles being wound about with Cotton Strings call’d _Jatirana_, under which hangs a Tuft of the Bird _Arara_’s Feathers, as also about the middle. Their Trumpets, call’d _Canguenca_, are the Shin-bones of Men, though they have others also made of great Shells and Canes. They us’d to be continually at War one with another, which they wag’d neither for Lands nor Riches, but either to make themselves eminent, and to be accounted valiant Soldiers, or most especially for the sake of Man’s-flesh to feed upon, which they love beyond all things in the World, wherefore they fatten all their Prisoners for the slaughter. Their Battels are always cruel, for they fight very desperately. _Emanuel de Moraes_ relates, That he saw a _Brasilian_ fight with three Armed _Portugueses_, who slew him not till after he had wounded them all three. [Sidenote: The Languages of the _Brasilians_.] The Languages of the _Brasilians_ are several, each Countrey speaking a peculiar Tongue, but so different that they cannot understand one another. The _Tabuyans_ are divided into above eighty Tribes, each speaking a peculiar Language, which have no resemblance one with another; nevertheless they have a general Language which is understood by most of them. The Jesuit _Joseph Anchieta_ publishing a _Brasilian_ Dictionary in _Conimbrica_, _Anno 1595._ shewed that the fore-mention’d Language wants the Letters _f_, _l_, _s_, _z_, _r_, and hath no double Consonants in any word, except _mb_, _nd_, _ng_, so that the sound of the word falls generally on the last Vowel. The fore-mention’d _Moraes_ well experienc’d in the _Brasilian_ Tongue, writ an Alphabet of all the most familiar words thereof us’d in common Discourse, of which it will not be unnecessary to give this following Extract: A. _Aba_, a Man, _also_ Hair. _Acu_, the Left-hand. _Acuabeimae_, Sweet. _Amaberaba_, Lightning. _Amacuminga_, Thunder. _Amandiba_, Hail. _Anama_, a near Relation. _Anga_, the Soul. _Angabara_, Lean. _Angaipata_, Angry, _or_ Wicked. _Angaturama_, Thankful, _or_ Acceptable. _Apara_, a Crown. _Apecum_, the Tongue. _Apicaba_, a Stool. _Ara_, the Time, Skye, _or_ Day. _Ara-ibi coquime_, Noon. _Araya_, Grandmother. _Atapuana_, Light. _Atapuatia_, Swift. _Atucupe_, the Back. _Atyba_, the Shoulder. _Ay cig_, a Mother. _Ayura_, the Neck. B. _Boya_, a Slave. C. _Cama_, a Sucking-Breast. _Canga_, a Leg. _Caraibebe_, _apiabebe_, an Angle. _Caruca_, the Evening. _Capii_, Grass. _Capii goacu_, Straw. _Catu_, Dainty. _Cay_, an Ape. _Ceba_, a Loaf. _Cibera_, the Buttocks. _Cemiracoaobae_, a Widower. _Ceo_, a Breast. _Ceteeimibae_, a Ghost. _Cig cygra_, an Aunt. _Coaraci_, a Son. _Cobra_, a Serpent. _Coemitanga_, the Dawn. _Coriba_, Rejoyce. _Coya_, Twins. _Cunha_, a Wife. _Cunhaiba_, a Bride. _Cunumigoacu_, a Youth. _Cunumi_, a Boy. E. _Ecatuaba_, the right Hand. _Eyruba_, a Bee. G. _Giba_, an Arm. _Guaibino_, an old Woman. _Guirarupia_, an Egg. I. _Jaci_, the Moon, _or_ Month. _Jacitata_, a Star. _Iba_, a Tree. _Ibiaia_, the Heavens. _Ibatinga_ and _Ibitinga_, a Witch. _Ibateba_, High. _Ibi_, the Earth. _Ibitira_, a Mountain. _Ibitu_, the Wind. _Icapi_, the Dew. _Ig_, Water. _Iguaba_, a Cap. _Ipeca_, a Goose. _Igue_, the Side. _Ita_, Iron, _or_ a Stone. _Itacira_, a Spade. _Itapigua_, a Nail. _Juba_, Yellow. M. _Maupiara_, the Gall. _Mbabeaubora_, Sick. _Mbiu_, Meat. _Mbo_, a Hand. _Membeca_, Softly. _Menearaa_, a Wedding. _Micu_, a Toe. _Mita_, the Heel. _Mocu_, an Eel. _Mormotara_, Angry. _Muapendaba_, a Joint. N. _Nbia_, the Heart. O. _Opacatumba_, the World. P. _Potia_, the Breast. _Paranga_, Fair. _Porerobiara_, Faithful. _Porucuicobora_, Poor. _Potivi_, a Duck. _Poxi_, Ugly. _Pi_, a Foot. _Pia_, the Liver. _Pira_, Fish, _or_ a Skin. _Piquiira_, Younger in years. _Pitanga_, a Child. _Pua_, a Finger. _Pua-guacu_, a Thumb. _Purva_, the Navel. _Puou_, Long. _Putuma_, the Night. R. _Roig_, Cold. T. _Tagica_, a Vein. _Tagui_, Blood. _Tagira_, or _Membira_, a Daughter. The first of these words is us’d by the Fathers, and the other by the Mothers. _Taira_, Children, _or_ a Son. _Tamua_, a Grandfather. _Tata_, Fire. _Tecoacu_, Luck. _Tecoateima_, Covetousness. _Temerico_, Man _or_ Woman. _Tendiba_, a Chin. _Tendi_, Spittle. _Tendipia_, a Knee. _Tecobecatu_, Wholsom. _Tema_, a Shin-bone. _Tete_, a Body. _Tiaya_, Sweet. _Tibira_, Younger: for so the Brothers call one another, but the Sisters name their younger Brothers _Quibira_, and Brothers their younger Sisters _Teindira_. _Tigue_, the Belly. _Tique perg_, the Guts. _Tinga_, White. _Tipiba_, Melancholly. _Tiquera_, eldest Sister. _Tiquiera_, eldest Brother. _Tuba_, Parents. _Tutira_, Father’s Brother. _Tubei-ima_, an Hospital Boy. _Tuibaem_, an old Man. _Tupana_, God. _Ty_, Piss. _Tyuris_, the Bladder. U. _Uba_, the Hip. _Unhapuapem_, a Nail. Y. _Yja_, a Fountain. _Ymeneoba_, a Widow. _Yyaobuamba_, Naked. The Words for Action, are these following: A. _Abi_, Erring. _Abiqui_, Coming. _Acanhem_, I die. _Acoy_, Covering. _Aei_, Missing. _Ami_, Squeezing. _Amotareima_, Hating. _Anduba_, Opinion. _Anguipaba_, Sinning. _Abba mandeba_, To put on. _Apina_, Shaving. _Apition_, Binding. _Aroca_, a Lesson. _Ayaima_, Feigning. B. _Beraba_, Shining. C. _Coanga_, Measuring, Proving, _or_ Speaking. _Cacaba_, Passing by. _Cae_, Curing. _Capucaya_, Calling, _or_ To be vex’d. _Carom_, Hoping. _Caruca_, Pissing. _Cauccuba_, Loving. _Cecaraya_, Forgetting. _Cema_, Going out. _Cenduba_, Hearing. _Cenoya_, Naming. _Cepiaca_, Seeing, Punishment. _Cerura_, Carrying. _Cetuna_, Smelling. _Ceyara_, Relating. _Cica_, Ploughing. _Cipya_, Making wet. _Ciquye_, Fearing. _Co_, Going. _Cobaitim_, Meeting. _Coquendaboya_, Opening. _Cuaba_, Knowing. _Cupira_, Performing. _Cuu_, Defending. E. _Ecatu_, To be able. G. _Genonheca_, Praying. _Goameenga_, Biting. _Guapua_, Sitting. _Guata_, Walking. _Gueena_, Vomiting. I. _Jababa_, To run away. _Jecoacuba_, To remember. _Jenumuna_, Spitting. _Jerure_, Demanding. _Igtaba_, Swimming. _Igu_, Drinking. M. _Maenduara_, Thinking. _Mano_, Dying. _Maramonbanga_, Warring. _Mayaoca_, Dividing. _Mba-eraca_, Buying. _Mbacu_, Eating. _Meenga_, Delivering. _Menbirara_, Barring. _Moaibaba_, Bewitching, _or_ Preventing. _Mongueba_, Putting out. _Moanga_, Thinking. _Moaquima_, Making wet. _Mobibua_, Sowing. _Moete_, Praising, _or_ Honoring. _Moendi_, Setting on fire. _Mogiba_, Boyling. _Mogyco_, Polishing. _Momiya_, Moving. _Momita_, Lodging. _Monberaba_, Bruising. _Monbeu_, Delivering of a Message. _Monbuca_, To bore through. _Monbuja_, Boring. _Mondoca_, To cut, take away, _or_ cleave asunder. _Mondoroca_, Breaking. _Monguy_, Grinding. _Monguya_, Making loose. _Monhanga_, Doing. _Moperua_, Being cold. _Mopotaya_, Buttoning. _Moriba_, Consenting. _Moropiana_, Changing. _Moeyeceara_, Mixing. N. _Nheangeru_, Sighing. _Nheenga_, Speaking. _Nhemboe_, Learning. _Nhengara_, Singing. P. _Paepua_, Answering. _Paraboca_, Chusing. _Paronduba_, Enquiring. _Pea_, Abstaining. _Pitu_, Remaining. _Pitanga rempi_, To cast off. _Pitera_, Kissing. _Pitibo_, Helping. _Aittiba_, Anointing. _Poacema_, Mourning. _Pobana_, Spinning. _Pocuaba_, To use. _Pocaucuba_, Dreaming. _Porabiqui_, Working. _Porara_, Lying. _Potareima_, Refusing. _Potara_, Desiring. _Puama_, Rising. _Puaya_, Commanding. _Puca_, Laughing. _Pura_, Using. Q. _Quera_, Sleeping. _Querara_, Waking. R. _Raba_, Untying. _Qereco_, Having. _Rura_, Coming. T. _Tara_, Catching. _Tecobe_, Living. _Tiguioca_, Bleeding. _Tiu_, Disgracing. _Tima_, Ploughing, Warring, _or_ Burying. Y. _Yaceo_, Crying. _Yeaoboca_, Pulling off. _Yeupira_, Climbing. _Yuca_, Killing. These are of the most usual words of the general Language in _Brasile_, besides which every distinct Tribe or Division of People hath its peculiar Tongue, as hath been said, of which the chiefest and most eminent are the _Tupinambu_, _Tabaiaras_, _Potigi-iguaras_, _Marhuites_, _Waimoores_, _Tomonimenos_, _Waitaquazes_, _Wainasses_, _Topinaques_, _Pories_, _Molopaques_, _Motaias_, _Biheros_, _Wainawasons_, _Tamoies_, _Tocomans_, and the _Cariogs_; of all which the _Tupinambu_ are the most comely, especially their Women, which (according to the testimony of the aforesaid _Emanuel Moraes_, an Eye-witness) may stand in competition with the _European_ Beauties. These Women accompany their Husbands when they go into the Wars, and carry their Provisions, especially store of Tobacco. In the Lips both of the Men and Women hang little Stones. The Men take as many Wives as they please; and amongst the generality of the fore-mention’d Nations, there is scarce any sign of Religion to be discern’d. [Sidenote: The _Tobaras_ and _Potigi-iguaras_.] The _Tobaras_ are accounted the best Horsemen; but in Singing and Discourse, the _Potigi-iguaras_ exceed all the other _Brasilians_: They place twenty or thirty Singers in a Row, which observing Time, Sing the Transactions of their Predecessors with good Voices. [Sidenote: The _Waimoores_.] The _Waimoores_ are a strong People that inhabit the large Tract of Land between _Bahia_ and _Isleos_, and having well timber’d Bodies, can keep pace with a Horse running full speed. Five or six of them often set upon a Sugar-Mill, though a hundred Men be at work in the same: They are all over bedaub’d with Dirt, because they lie like Beasts on the Ground: They wear long Hair, and have no certain Abodes. [Sidenote: The _Tomonimenos_.] The _Tomonimenos_, living about _Spirito Santo_, are more civilis’d; they make Walls of Stone about their Huts; and these Walls are full of Holes, through which they shoot Arrows at those that Invade them; their Bodies are Painted red and black, and cover’d with Feathers. The _Portuguese_ taking sixteen thousand of them Prisoners at once, kill’d most of them, and destroy’d the Countrey all along the River _Paraiva_. [Sidenote: The _Waitaquazes_.] At the South and North Point of _Cape Frio_ dwell the _Waitaquazes_, bigger and stronger than the _Waimoores_; and they also sleep like Hogs on the Ground about a Fire, hold all People for their Enemies, and their Flesh for the greatest Dainty. The Women Arm’d with Bowes and Arrows stand by their Husbands in Battel. [Sidenote: The _Wainasses_.] [Sidenote: The Description of the Plant _Vruca_.] On _Isla Grande_ reside the _Wainasses_, a little People, which have very long Bellies, go stark naked, shave the Crown of their Heads, and let the other part of their Hair hang down long on their Shoulders. The Women, which are of gross Bodies, colour themselves Red with _Vruca_, which is a wild Plant, but much us’d amongst them: the Kernels are inclos’d in Husks full of red Fibres. These Kernels are not onely mix’d with the other Ingredients of the _Chocaletta_ Drink, but also us’d to Dye of a red Colour: The Wood of this Plant is very white, and the Bark grey, like the Hazle; the Leaves being of a deep Green, resemble a Heart; at the end of the Boughs grow several Blossoms, each as big as a Rose, consisting of five Leaves, partly red and partly white, in the middle whereof are yellowish Threds with purple Points, which give little or no smell: after the Flower follows the Fruit, two Fingers long; when it begins to be ripe it grows still redder and redder, each Cod containing thirty or forty round Kernels, which being touch’d leave a red tincture upon the Fingers; the Cod when ripe opens of it self, and shews the Kernels speckled white, which dry’d, pounded, and mix’d with Piss, Dye so strong a Red, that Linnen dipt into the same will never receive any other Colour. This Root also boyl’d in Broth, makes it not onely red, but gives it a pleasant taste. [Sidenote: The _Topinaques_.] The _Topinaques_, which dwell about _St. Vincent_, are a strong and gross People, go stark naked both Men and Women: when they kill any of their Enemies they Paint themselves with the Fruit _Janipano_, put a great Plume of Feathers on their Head, and two Sticks in their Mouths, Dancing with strange motions of the Body, inclining sometimes towards the right, and sometimes towards the left side, for three day together; during which time they drink a filthy kind of Liquor. The Women, who have well proportion’d Bodies, onely covering their Heads with a Cap, about which they tie a bread of Hair, to which a square Basket being fastned, hangs below their Backs when they travel. [Sidenote: The _Pories_.] The Mountains along the Ocean, which inclose much Gold, are inhabited by the _Pories_, a peaceable People, molesting none of their Neighbors; they sleep in Nets of Flags, and have no other Houses than three Poles plac’d triangular, and cover’d with Palm-Leaves; they feed on Pine-Nuts and _Eyrires_, Apples that have Shells like a Walnut, and have also the precious Balsam-Oyl in great abundance. [Sidenote: The _Molopaques_.] Along the River _Paradiva_ inhabit the _Molopaques_; the Men strong and well timber’d, have Beards long enough to cover their Privities. The Women also fair, modest, prudent, and never laughing, tie their Hair, painted with several colours, round about their Middle with a Cord, so that it serves in stead of an Apron. They observe a set-hour for Dinner and Supper, which is not us’d by any other _Brasilians_. The Mountains in these Parts consisting of a black Mold, have plenty of Gold, but it is of no esteem or regard amongst them, onely that which is wash’d down by the Rain they gather up, but put to no other use than to make Hooks to hang their Nets on. [Illustration] [Sidenote: The _Motayas_.] The _Motayas_, being of a low Stature and brown Complexion, shave off the Hair of their Heads, or else pluck it up by the Roots; they are eaters of Man’s-flesh. Not far from whose Dominions appear the Mountains _Pinos_ up in the Countrey, which abounding with Gold and Precious Stones, are inhabited by the _Biheros_, otherwise call’d _Lopos_, which live under the Trees like Beasts. [Sidenote: The _Waianawasons_.] [Sidenote: The _Tamoyes_.] The _Waianawasons_ have little Villages, built along a nameless River; they are a Gigantick People, but very ignorant. Thirteen _Portuguese_ undertaking some years ago to travel through this Countrey to the South Sea, found on some Mountains abundance of Gold and Precious Stones; and amongst many strange things they saw a Crystal Mountain ten days before they came near it, over which they could not travel because of its steepness; at the foot thereof sprung a broad Stream, making a great noise. From thence travelling forward, they came to the _Tamoyes_ Countrey, the Men whereof, being well proportion’d, wore great Bunches of Feathers on their Heads: The Women, exceeding fair, had carv’d Breasts. The said _Portuguese_ being taken here, were put into Prison, and all slain and eaten, excepting one, who escap’d after this manner: Thirty thousand _Tamoyes_ falling into the Countrey of the _Amazons_, by the _Americans_ call’d _Mandiocuysyams_, made a great Feast with three hundred of them, whilest the rest fled to the River _La Plata_, where they got help from the _Portuguese_, who kill’d ten thousand of the _Tamoyes_, made the rest Slaves, and releas’d their imprison’d Countreyman. [Sidenote: The _Tocomans_, _Caryogs_, and _Maraquites_.] The _Tocomans_, a little People, dwell between _La Plata_ and _St. Vincent_. The _Caryogs_ possess much Gold and Precious Stones. The _Maraquites_, by the Western _Indians_ sur-named _Tapuiyers_, that is, _Wild People_, are divided into seventy six sorts, all differing in their Languages; amongst which the chiefest are the _Arodera_, _Cajau_, _Maquaru_, and _Poyme_, which all live without Law, Religion, setled Abodes, or Friendship with any Neighbors; and the Women Fight as well as the Men. _Jacob Rabbi_, who dwelt a considerable time, and convers’d amongst these People, describes their Customs thus: [Sidenote: Their Customs describ’d.] “Their King _Jandui_, sir-named _Otshicayayna_, from the River which flows through the Countrey of the _Tapuyans_, causes (it he thinks fit) to be publish’d through the whole Camp of the Enemy, whither he will go the next Morning, and what he will do all the Day following, having first consulted with his Council of Sorcerers. Before they march they wash their Bodies in the River; rub themselves all over with Sand, and afterwards wash it off again, then stretch themselves till all their Joynts crack, run to the Fire, and when throughly warm, scratch their Bodies with certain Fish-Teeth, insomuch that the Blood gushes out of several places, all which they judge to be good against wearisomness. About a Stones-cast from the King’s Tent lie two thick Logs, a large Stride one from the other, against which the whole Multitude stand divided into two Parties, each of whom chuse the strongest Man accounted amongst them to carry the Log for a Wager, and when these two are tir’d, they are releas’d by others, and he that comes last to the appointed place with the Log, is laugh’d at by the Party to which he belong’d that was there first, where they all stay for the Youths that bring their Arms, which when they have deliver’d, they all fall to work, cutting down Trees, breaking off the Boughs, sticking them in the Ground, and tying them together on the top for Tents, which are built in rows one against another, leaving a broad Path between. Mean while the Women and Children coming with their Baggage, the Men run to Fish and Hunt, or to seek Honey. The old Women dig up Roots, which stamp’d serve them for Bread, whilest the young Women help one another to prepare the Meat in the Huts. Moreover the Men spend their time in several Exercises, as Wrestling and Running, of which two Women, appointed for that purpose, are the Judges. When the Evening draws on upon them, then the Youths dividing themselves into Companies, go Singing from one Tent to another, and are follow’d by the Maids Dancing and Leaping, every one standing behind him whom she loves best; and this is look’d upon as a singular sign of affection. When a young Man is inclin’d to Marry, he carries Honey and Venison to his Mistresses Father, who if he hath more than one Daughter acquaints the Soothsayers with it, who inform the King concerning it; he then causes all the young Men and Maids to be call’d together out of the Camp, sends them into the Woods to Hunt out a wild Beast, which they no sooner see, but they return and acquaint the Multitude therewith, who immediately surrounding the Place, soon catch the Beast, whose Entrails they pull out and throw to the Dogs, and give the Flesh to the Women to roast, which when ready they make merry with, Singing and Dancing after they have eaten; then if the Youth hath behav’d himself well in pursuing of the wild Beast, the King grants him the Maid which he desires for his Wife: Four days before the Wedding they bore a Hole through each of the Bridegrooms Cheeks with a sharp piece of Wood, which done they solemnize the Marriage; at which the King himself distributes the Meat to every Guest as he thinks fit; after Dinner they extol the Mothers Care, in preserving her Daughters Virginity for the Bridegroom in strange Songs. If a Maid be Marriageable, and no Suitor comes to her, then the Mother draws red Strokes under her Eyes, and conducts her to the King, who sets the Maid down by him on a Mat, warms his Hands against the Fire, then stroaks himself and the Maid, and also blows Tobacco-Smoak on her and himself, which done, he performs the part of a Husband with her. But their making Holes through their Ears and Lips is done whilest they are Children, after this manner: The Boys who undergo this Ceremony, come to the Place appointed, where the whole Multitude Dance and Sing, and the Conjurers (who are the onely Priests they have) sit in two rows opposite to one another; one of them starting up, takes a Boy by the Head, ties him Hand and Foot that he cannot stir at all; which done, a second Sorcerer comes to his assistance, and with a sharp-pointed Stick bores Holes through his Ears and Lips, whilest the Mother of the Boy makes a sad Lamentation. Women refuse to have any familiarity with their Husbands as soon as they perceive themselves to be with Child; and as soon as any Woman is Deliver’d, she runs into a neighboring Wood, where with a Shell she cuts off the Childs Navel, which boyling she eats with the After-birth; then washes her self and the Child every Morning and Evening in cold Water; as long as she gives Suck her Husband lies not with her, unless it be a Man that hath but one Wife. If a Woman commit Adultery, her Husband beats her out of his House, but if he takes her in the Act, it is lawful for him to kill both. In the middle of the King’s Tent stands a great _Calabash_ full of Stones call’d _Kehnturah_, cover’d with the corner of a Mat, which none dares approach without the King’s leave, unless it be to smoak the same with Tobacco, or to lay Venison or Honey before it.” [Sidenote: Strange manner of curing the Sick amongst the _Tapuyans_.] It is also remarkable how the Sorcerers deal with their Sick; the aforesaid _Jacob Rabbi_, in Eye-witness relates, That the King _Drarugh_ being extreamly troubled with pains in his Sides and Legs, and finding no help amongst his Sorcerers, who pretended to be Physicians, went to the neighboring King of the _Tapuyans_, where three undertook to cure him, which they did after this manner: One of them blew Tobacco-smoak on his Body, suck’d his Knees, roar’d like a Lyon, and after much ado vomited a little Eel into his Hand, which he pretended had put the King to so much pain; whilest the second suck’d his Belly, and also roar’d exceedingly, and vomited forth at last a Stone, on which appear’d a Rose; the third suck’d his left Side, till he vomited something like a Root; after which the King is said immediately to have recover’d. [Sidenote: Their Feasting in honor of the Stars.] There is but little Ceremony of Religion to be found amongst the _Tapuyans_, onely they shew Reverence to the Seven-stars when the Fruits of the Field are ripe, after this manner: First they spend three days in Dancing and Singing, then the Youths prepare themselves to Fight with Lances and Clubs, tie tough Twigs about their Legs, pour Honey on their Heads, tie their Hair behind in Knots after it is powder’d with red Powder, Paint their Faces and Bodies with several Colours, stick a long Feather in their Necks betwixt their Hair, and on their Heads set Garlands of red Feathers pleited, down their Backs hang Bundles of Branches like Tails, and have their Arms adorn’d with the Wings of the Bird _Kosetug_; thus dress’d they fight three days, at the end whereof the Conquerors shew great joy. It deserves special observation what the Learned _Gerard Vossius_ relates of them from the Mouth of _Christopher Arcisseusky_, a _Polish_ Nobleman, famous for his heroick Exploits for the _United Netherlands_ in _Brasile_. [Sidenote: _Arcisseusky_’s Relation of the Manners of the new Married.] “The _Tapuyans_ (saith he) are a People that range up and down, never staying long in one place, between _Siara_ and _Meranthon_, a vast Tract of Land, and go almost naked, having onely a slight Covering about their Middle. When the _Hollanders_ gave them Clothes, they admir’d the strange Fashion thereof, and after two days return’d them again: In their Lips, Nostrils, Ears and Cheeks they hung Ornamentals of Wood, Bones, Feathers, or Stones; a great Club, and a strong Bowe made of hard Wood serve them for Arms; Gold and Silver they esteem’d not, wherefore they barter’d whole Chests full (buried there by the _Portuguese_ and discover’d by them) with the _Hollanders_ for Greyhounds: They judge themselves to be better than other Man-eaters, because they eat not the Flesh of their Enemies, but of their own Relations, and those neither kill’d in the Wars, nor dying a natural Death; by which they pretend to express their exceeding love to the Deceased, who else would, say they, be eaten by the Worms and rot, wherefore they rather chuse to eat them, that they may receive the nourishment themselves.” [Illustration] The same Author relates also, That he saw a _Tapuyan_ yield up the Ghost not far from the Castle _Rio Grande_, after which his nearest Relations taking the Body, wash’d the same, together with the Entrails, and cutting the Corps into several pieces, roasted the same on a Spit, preserving the Fat that dropt from it in Pans, and eat the Flesh with a greedy Appetite. None were admitted to this Feast but his chief Relations; and that which they could not eat, as the Hair, Teeth, Nails, and Bones, they burnt to Ashes, which gathering up they mix’d with their Liquor till it was all drunk up. [Sidenote: The Religion of the _Tapuyans_.] The _Tapuyans_ acknowledge two Deities, the one good and the other bad; to the good they shew no Reverence, because, say they, he is bountiful of himself, and doth them no hurt; whereas on the contrary they zealously call upon their Devil-Deity, because they think he destroys all those who worship him not. [Sidenote: Their foretelling of things to come.] They never Travel nor go to War before they have consulted with their angry God, and that not without great Ceremonies; whereupon they ascribe to themselves the knowledge of future things; and indeed they often foretel future things which are beyond humane apprehension; as a testimony whereof that may serve which _Sapo Amama_, a _Friezland_ Gentleman, found by experience: for he keeping Guard before _Conjahu_ with a Troop of Horse against the _Portuguese_, had several _Tapuyans_ in his Service, who foretold, That the following day the Lieutenant _Amama_ and a Trooper should be kill’d by a Shot from a great Gun; which, though slighted, was confirm’d by the exact fulfilling of the Prediction. The like Passages hapned daily, and amongst many _Arcisseusky_ relates one very remarkable Accident, _viz._ He remov’d a considerable number of Men of the Garrison _Rio Grande_, to surprize the _Spanish_ Fort _Barra-Canium_, and nothing could more promote the Design than secrecy; but fifty _Tapuyans_ having joyn’d with the _Hollanders_, _Arcisseusky_ fear’d they might discover his Plot, wherefore he charg’d them that they should not stir a foot from his Company, which they accordingly promis’d, and having march’d three days through By-ways, they daily perform’d their Devotion in open view, and _Arcisseusky_ desir’d that they would call him when their Devil appear’d, which they granted, on promise that he should not do him any hurt: On the third day the Army being sufficiently refresh’d, he being call’d, found the _Tapuyans_ sitting in a Semi-Circle, with their Feet spread asunder; opposite to them sat their Priest on the Ground, whom they ask’d concerning all manner of Affairs, and he question’d them again, on which they gave their several Answers, but could not be understood for want of Interpreters, for those whom the _Hollanders_ us’d spake only two Languages, one of which is us’d commonly by the _Brasilians_ along the Sea-Coast, and the other by the _Portuguese_, in which they Interpreted to the _Hollanders_ as much as possibly they could understand of what the _Tapuyans_ said, whose Language differs very much from the vulgar _Brasile_ Tongue, because they live up in the Inland, and are divided into divers Tribes, so that the Interpreters could not understand the _Tapuyans_, but judg’d their meaning more by nodding of the Head, and the like signs: after the Assembly had done speaking, the Priest rose up and went out of their sights into the Wood, where with a loud voice he call’d three times upon the Devil; but he not answering, the Priest return’d to his Company, who began their Questions and Answers afresh, which could not be understood by the Interpreters; and soon after the Priest (seeming to be commanded by the rest) went again to the Wood, but calling still in vain, return’d; then going a third time, and calling as before, was by a small, but shrill Voice, answer’d from the middle of the Wood, from which the _Tapuyans_ concluded that their Business would come to perfection, and that the Devil would soon appear to them: The Priest hereupon going backwards and forwards three times one after another to his Company, they began to talk as before; at last going into the Wood again, they all spoke louder, and with more vehemency than before, whilest the fore-mention’d shrill Voice approached nearer and nearer, and at last the supposed _Dæmon_ came forth with the Priest, who commanded him to sit opposite to the Congregation, which had a great deal of Discourse, and sometimes the Priest speaking was answer’d by the Devil in his shrill Voice; but some of the People calling aloud, catch’d up their Arms, and threatned to beat the Devil, as they often us’d to do upon the like occasions. At the departure of the _Dæmon_, the Multitude conducted by the Priest into the Wood, cry’d out in so terrible a manner, that they affrighted the _Hollanders_, who judg’d it rather to be Lyons and Tygers that roar’d than Men. During these Transactions, a _German_ Soldier in the Rere quitted his Arms and fled, but being miss’d was pursu’d, found in a Hedge, and laid Hold on as a Person suspected to carry Advice to the _Spaniards_, and being brought before _Arcisseusky_ and Examined, gave such ridiculous Answers as increas’d the suspicion, insomuch that he was led to a Tree to be tortur’d; where as he stood ty’d he solemnly declar’d, That the reason of his running away, was because he had not Pray’d in ten years, so that he was exceedingly afraid, lest when he saw the Devil amongst the _Tapuyans_, he would have known him, and carry’d him away to the Place prepar’d for all such Wretches. [Sidenote: The Imposture.] The Learned _Gerard Vossius_ made a particular Enquiry after this Story, whether the Spirit’s appearance were a Reality, or an Imposture; and the truth is it was no better than a subtile Cheat, and so it was apprehended by _Arcisseusky_, who not long after, on a convenient time, ask’d the _Tapuyans_ why they feign’d him to be a Devil that was a Man, whom he had often seen before? which they denying, affirm’d that it was a real Devil; but _Arcisseusky_ knew their pretended Friend, who spake so shrill by reason of a Grass-blade which he held in his Mouth. However, though the main of the Fable was acted by Man, yet the Devil without doubt play’d his part with them, as appear’d by those Predictions, which no Man could possibly know, _viz._ That the _Portuguese_ Fort should with the loss but of three Men fall into the _Hollanders_ hands; for so accordingly it hapned. But because the Devil cannot foresee all things, therefore they often erre; for they said that the _Hollanders_ should cross the Moat on Boards nail’d together in stead of a Bridge, and that the Enemy should not perceive it; and indeed _Arcisseusky_ had resolv’d so to do, but was discover’d by the _Portuguese_, who defended themselves with great Guns, which so affrighted the _Tapuyans_, not us’d to such a noise, that they ran away and never return’d, so that by Morning the Fort was conquer’d, and all things quieted. [Sidenote: A pleasant Story between _Arcisseusky_ and a _Tapuyan_ Priest.] After this _Arcisseusky_ burnt several _Portuguese_ Ships in the River _Monguoape_, and kept one, carrying ten Demi-Culverins, laden with Sugar and _Spanish_ Wine; which to carry to a safe Harbor a short Way, he requir’d the _Tapuyans_ assistance; but they refus’d to enter, pretending the Ship would perish by some or other unfortunate Accident, which accordingly hapned as they had said; for the Ship was split against a Rock in the Mouth of a narrow Haven, insomuch that nothing of it was sav’d; all which the _Tapuyans_ knew beforehand by the Devil’s information, for they never go upon any Business of consequence before they have consulted with him, and done him worship. Yet, it seems, they cannot secure this Devil of theirs from the Stripes of a Mortal, as appears by this pleasant Story: A _Tapuyan_ Priest was promis’d a Shirt from _Arcisseusky_, upon condition the Devil should pull the same out of his Hand and carry it up in the Air: The _Tapuyan_ liking the Proposal, promis’d immediately to call the Devil; but when _Arcisseusky_ desir’d leave to Drub him with a Stick which he had in his Hand, he could by no means perswade the Priest to call for his _Dæmon_; at which every one began to laugh: and to carry on the Mirth farther, _Arcisseusky_ Joking with the Priest, said, _I will shew you that I am a greater Artist than you, for to Morrow I will bring it about by my Art, that great Horns shall grow on your Head, so big, that you shall not be able to pass these Doors_; which so affrighted the _Tapuyans_, that all of them fled, onely the Priest return’d the next day with an Interpreter to _Arcisseusky_, desiring him that he would use him mercifully, and not cause any Horns to grow on his Head. At the time when _Jacob Rabbi_ convers’d amongst the _Tapuyans_, they were Govern’d by _Janduy_, a Man of above a hundred years old, whose chief Seat was on each side of the River _Otschunogh_, and round about the Lake _Igtug_, in which none durst Swim, because of the many biting Fishes in the same. The King _Pritigaba_ having entred into a strict League with _Janduy_, Warr’d continually against the Kings _Arygpoygh_, _Wanasewasug_, _Tshering_, and _Dremenige_; and had not the _Portuguese_ taken the four last into their Service to aid them against the _Hollanders_, they could never have held out long against the Forces sent by _Janduy_, who destroy’d Man, Beast, and Houses, sparing nothing they met with; for they murther and destroy all things where e’re they come. [Sidenote: _Brasile_ by whom possess’d at present.] The several Nations that now possess _Brasile_, besides its native Inhabitants, are _Portuguese_, _English_, _Hollanders_, _Germans_, and _French_, which the _Brasilians_ by a general Name call _Ajuru-juba_; otherwise they call all Strangers _Caraiba_ or _Pero_. But from the commixing of several Nations proceeds a fifth sort, for one that is born of _European_ Parents in _Brasile_ is call’d _Mozombo_; of an _European_ Father and _Brasilian_ Mother, _Mameluc_; of an _European_ Father and a _Moor_, _Mulatto_; of a _Brasilian_ and _Moor_, _Curiboca_, or _Cabocles_; of two _Negro_’s, _Criolo_. But above all others the _Portuguese_ are the strongest along the Sea-Coast, who when first they began to settle on _Brasile_, found great resistance; and had not the Natives been at Wars amongst themselves, they could never have got so much footing, but now they are sufficiently Masters; for they have either slain all the old Inhabitants, or driven them up into the Inland: However, the _Brasilians_ are so valiant, that they will Encounter a great Army, being brought up in the Wars from their Cradle. When they Engage one with another they shoot their Arrows exceeding thick, Hooting, Hollowing, and Leaping from one side to the other to shun the Arrows with a wonderful dexterity: The Conquerors spare none, but kill all, and Feast on the slain Bodies; but some they hale away Prisoners with a Rope about their Necks, to each of whom they allot a young Maid, who cherishes and fattens them up for five Moneths, at the end of which they make a great Feast, and drink to a pitch beyond Sense or Reason, having first fill’d their Bellies with the Flesh of the slain Prisoners roasted. If the Woman be got with Child by the Slain, they imagine that they can take no greater revenge of their Enemy, than to devour the Child as soon as it comes into the World; but it often happens, that the Woman really loving her Husband the Prisoner, runs away with him, and so bereaves her Friends of a Banquet. SECT. II. St. Vincent. [Sidenote: Places of note in the _Præfecture_ of _St. Vincent_.] The continual Wars which the _Portuguese_ have maintain’d against the _Brasilians_, have hindred them from Setling any where but along the Sea-side, where their Residences are divided into thirteen _Præfectures_ or Lordships, by them call’d _Capitanias_; the Southermost whereof being 1. _St. Vincent_, hath a City of the same Denomination, which lies near a River that coming out of the Ocean runs round in the Countrey, and so returns into the Sea. 2. _Sanctos los Leyes_, which reckons four hundred Houses and three Sugar-Mills. Here great Ships take in their Lading in the middle of the City. 3. _Hitauhacin_, the most Southern, is inhabited by the _Portuguese_. Twelve Leagues from thence up into the Countrey the _Jesuits_ have built the Village _St. Paulo_, near the Gold-Mines that lie in the Mountains, extending from East to West thirty Leagues. This Village, long since containing eighty Houses, is inhabited by _Brasilians_ and a mix’d People; the Way thither is troublesom, over rough Mountains, and Ways overgrown with Brambles. On the Island _Britioga_, at a sandy Inlet which makes a good Harbor, lies a Fort for defence of the Haven _St. Vincent_: and since the _English_, _Anno 1582._ sunk a Ship there, a second Fort hath been built to prevent the coming in up the River; yet notwithstanding Captain _Thomas Candish_ ran by both the Forts, and burnt _St. Vincent_, but spar’d _Sanctos_. Before the River which washes _St. Vincent_, appears the Island _Sebastian_, pretty large, wooddy, and well stor’d with Venison; It hath wholsom Water, good Herbage, and a secure Road for Ships against all Winds. Farther into the Sea appears the high and rocky Isles _Alcatraces_, as also _Victorio des Busires_, _Porto des Castellanos_, _Monte de Frigo_, _Muella_, and _Queimadas_. [Sidenote: The Nature of the _Tupinikinsi_, Natives of _St. Vincent_.] The Natives of _St. Vincent_, which are in League with the _Portuguese_, are call’d _Tupinikinsi_, inhabiting the Mountains which extend above twenty eight Leagues up into the Countrey: They maintain continual Wars against the _Carioes_, a civiliz’d People, and white of Complexion, as also against the _Cupin Imbas_ on the North, and a nameless People bordering on _Peru_. Moreover, the _Miramumins_, a very wild People, range all the Countrey over, but are much lessen’d since the _Portugueses_ Arrival. SECT. III. Rio de Janeiro. [Sidenote: First Discovery and Possession of _Rio de Janeiro_.] The second Lordship _Rio de Janeiro_, formerly by the _French_ call’d _Ganabara_, was discover’d _Anno 1515._ by _Juan Dias de Solis_; but the _French_ first Setled themselves here forty years after _Dias de Solis_: for setting Sail from _Havre de Grace_ with three well Mann’d Ships, Commanded by _Nicholas Durandus Villegagnon_, they arriv’d at _Rio Janeiro_ in _November_, and at the Entrance into the River, which is about half a League broad, built a woodden Fort of a hundred Foot long, and sixty broad, and giving it the Name of the _French_ Admiral _Coligni_, put several Guns into the same to secure the Entrance, inclos’d on each side by two steep Mountains. In the River, which is very broad, lie several wooddy Isles, on one of which, near the Fort _Coligni_, _Villegagnon_ Setling himself, suffer’d great Inconveniences for want of Water, because he durst not Land on the Main, for fear of being surpris’d by the Natives. Here he stay’d a year and a half in a deplorable Condition, when _Philip Corguileray_ and _Du Pont_ set Sail with three Ships from the Haven _Honfleurs_; but they also, though they had many Men, yet were ill stor’d with Provisions, insomuch that Hunger increas’d amongst them daily: wherefore _Villegagnon_ return’d home without any farther Exploits. [Sidenote: _Jean Leri_ his Description thereof.] _Jean Leri_, who went with _Corguileray_, describes _Rio Janeiro_ after this manner: “The River (saith he) lies twenty three Degrees Southward of the _Equinoctial Line_; the Inlet of the Sea, twenty four thousand Paces broad, and in some places broader, is hemm’d in by hills; the Mouth of the Inlet is somewhat dangerous, by reason of three rocky Isles; beyond the large Bay is a narrow Channel, on the left-hand whereof there rises a high Mountain, which the _French_ call’d _Le Pot de Beure_, because it resembles a Butter-pot. Somewhat farther lies the Rock _Ratier_, where _Villegagnon_ thought to build a Fort, but the Water in stormy Weather washing over the Rock, he was forc’d to give over his Design. Half a League farther is an Island a thousand Paces in length, and a hundred and fifty in breadth, surrounded with Rocks, on which the _French_ resided: at each end of the Isle rises a Hill, and from the middle a Rock sixty Foot high; on the Hill _Villegagnon_ pitcht his Tent till he had built him a handsom House on a Rock; the other Houses were built in the Valley. Three Leagues and a half farther lies a fruitful Isle nine Miles in circumference, inhabited by a salvage People call’d _Touoebinambauti_: there are several other Isles, on which breed good Oysters with little Pearls, which stick so fast to great Stones, that they can scarce be pluckt off. The River _Janeiro_ abounds with Fish.” [Sidenote: Towns and Places of chief note.] The _French_ once possess’d this Island, but were dispossess’d by _Emanuel de Sa_, Governor of _Brasile_, for the _Portuguese_. The City _Sebastian_, which contains three hundred Houses, is built on the Southern Point of _Janeiro_; opposite to which, on the Northern Point, lies the Fort; a large Church, the _Jesuits_ Cloyster, and two Sugar-Mills, give no small lustre to the City, where the chief Trade consists in _Brasile_ Wood and Cotton. The _French_ Storm’d this Town _Anno 1581._ but march’d off without any success. _Dirk Ruiters_, an Eye-witness, gives us this Description of _Sebastian_: “The Town (says he) lies two Leagues up the River _Janeiro_, in a Bay, about which it is built like a Semi-Circle in a sandy Soil along the Water, and is about a Mile long; at each end rise steep Mountains, besides which it hath neither Walls nor Gates; but its strength consists of four Forts, the chiefest whereof stands towards the East on a Rock in the Mouth of the River; the second towards the West, an Isle which on the South-East rises with a Mountain resembling a Sugar-Loaf: the third crowns a Rock South-East from the Town; and the fourth, in the North-West, a high Mountain. The Natives, call’d _Tououpinambauti_, are very serviceable to the _Portuguese_.” Besides the fore-mention’d Towns _Coligni_ and _St. Sebastian_, some make mention of another in this _Præfecture_, call’d _Angra de los Reyes_, twelve Leagues distant from _St. Sebastian_ Westward. The Burroughs of the Natives are populous, but neither strong by Nature, nor fortifi’d, and so not by any one thought worthy the naming. SECT. IV. De Spirito Sancto. [Sidenote: Description of the Lordship _De Spirito Sancto_.] [Sidenote: Several strange sorts of Fish.] Next to _Rio Janeiro_ lies the Lordship or County _De Spirito Sancto_, exceeding fruitful, having divers Woods abounding with Venison. The Rivers _Parayva_, _Manangea_, _Itapemeri_, _Iritibi_, and _Guarapari_, are stor’d with all sorts of Fish, and amongst others the Fish _Piratiapua_, which in the Winter Moneths lives in the Rivers, and against the Summer returns to the Rocks wash’d by the Ocean. This Fish hath a wide Mouth full of Teeth, a reddish Tongue, little Fins, except those on their Backs, divers colour’d Scales, yet most of a dark Red, and generally weighs fifty Pound. Here is also the Fish _Paru_, full of yellow Scales like Half-Moons over a black Skin; it hath long Fins near the Tail, and a little Head. No less remarkable is the _Guebucu_, which hath a long Body, a sharp bonie Snout, the upper Jaw reaching over the other, no Teeth, a Tail divided in the middle, sharp Fins on the Back, and a Skin full of Silver-colour’d Prickles. This Monster not onely devours great Fishes, but also Men; when it is hungry it often runs its Snout through the side of a Ship. But there is no Fish more deform’d than the _Abacatuaja_, which being oval and flat, hath two long Fins underneath, and one on the top, a divided Tail, green Fins, a smooth Skin, and fiery Eyes; as soon as it is taken it cries like a Hog. [Sidenote: The Serpent _Boiguacu_.] In this County stands a Town of the same Denomination, which contains two hundred Houses, a Sugar-Mill, and a Cloyster of _Jesuits_, and drives a great Trade in Cotton and _Brasile_ Wood. Before the City lies an Inlet full of Isles, the Mouth of which is guarded by a Castle. The Natives, call’d _Maigaias_, are in League with the _Portuguese_, but the _Tapuyans_ and _Apiapetangas_ do them all the mischief they can possibly; so that the _Portuguese_ travel in great danger of their lives, when any Business calls them, through the Countrey of these salvage People. But besides these People, the Way is pester’d with strange wild Beasts, especially on the Mountain _Mestre Alvaro_, which is seen at a great distance off at Sea; on which, amongst other Creatures, breeds the terrible Serpent _Boiguacu_, whose length is generally twenty four Foot; it is of an Ash colour, with great and small black Spots, with a little white Speck in the middle; when hungry, it leaps out of the Hedges, or from the tops of Trees, raises it self upright on its Tail, and winding about either Man, Beast, or whate’re it be, squeezes it to death, or puts its Tail, which ends in a sharp Point or Sting, in at the Fundament in such a manner, that it kills the Creature on which it seizeth in a moment, and then swallows it up. This Serpent hath strong Ribs inwardly, and more than seventy bonie Joynts; wherefore it turns it self with great ease; the Joynt-bones near the Head are the biggest, and grow smaller and smaller towards the Tail: It also feeds on Pismires. [Sidenote: The Bird _Jabicu-guacu_.] This County also breeds the Bird _Jabicu-guacu_, which exceeds the Crane in bigness, and hath a long thick Bill, but no Tongue; on his Head appears a white grisly Crest or Mitre; the Wings and Tail are short, and the Feathers most of them white, except the Pinions, which shine like Rubies; their Flesh is of a good rellish, but somewhat dry. Near the River which washes the City _Spirito Sancto_, the _Paraibes_ dwell in Huts, not unlike Ovens. SECT. V. Porto Seguro. [Sidenote: Description of _Porto Seguro_.] Next to the fore-mention’d County borders _Porto Seguro_, discover’d by _Pedro Alvares Capralis_, who gave this Countrey the Name of _Terra de Santa Cruiz_, but afterwards chang’d it to _Porto Seguro_, because he found a secure Harbor there. The Town, built on the top of a white Rock, gives its Denomination to the whole Countrey, and harbor’d long since two hundred and twenty Families, and hath five Sugar-Mills. The Land on the North side of the Rock rises high, but Southwardly a smooth Coast runs along the Ocean, from which two Leagues off at Sea lie several Cliffs, against which the Waves break with a great force. The Towns _Santa Cruiz_ and _Amaro_ are left desolate, because the _Portuguese_ were continually Invaded by the salvage _Aymures_, whom they were not able by any means to repress. Southward from _Porto Seguro_ appear the Shoals _Abrolhos_, twenty six Leagues from the Coast; they are of one breadth, but one is longer than the other. [Illustration] [Sidenote: Remakable Wreck of the Ship _Batavia_.] [Sidenote: _Corneliszoon_: his villainous Attempt.] On this Coast the Ship _Batavia_ was cast away _Anno 1629._ which Accident is the more remakable for the Murders committed by the Factor, _Hieronymus Corneliszoon_, who with some Confederates resolv’d to run away with the Ship, and to Sail to some _Spanish_ Haven, or _Dunkirk_, and so to pillage the _Netherland_ Vessels; but their Design was frustrated by the Ships running against the _Abrolhos_: _Francis Pelsaert_, chief Commander, first caus’d the Sick, with the Women and Children, to be put on an Island, or else on two Rocks about three Leagues distant from the place where the Ship lay, in which remain’d seventy Men, whom _Pelsaert_ in vain endeavor’d to carry away; for the Sea was so rough that a Boat was not able to abide in the same, and also the Storm beginning to increase, beat the Ship more and more against the Sands, and the Seamen venturing towards the Isle on pieces of Timber, were some drown’d, others by the Waves, were driven ashore, amongst whom was _Hieronymus Corneliszoon_, who preserv’d his Life twenty four hours on the Boltsprit after the Ship was stav’d; but not terrifi’d with such an Accident, he continu’d in his fore-mention’d Resolution. On one of the Cliffs were forty Persons with eighty Cans of Water, but on the Island a hundred and eighty with much less; upon which _Pelsaert_, who when the Storm ceas’d, thought to save somewhat more out of his Wrack, was necessitated to seek for fresh Water on one of the said Cliffs, but not finding enough, trimm’d up his Boat and set Sail homeward, from thence to fetch a new supply of People: During which time _Cornelisszoon_ perform’d his Vilany; for he chose _David_ of _Zeevang_, _Gysbrecht Welderen_, _Coenraed Huissen_, _Cornelis Pieterszoon_, _Rutger Frederickszoon_, and _Hans Heilwerk_, for his Assistants, besides several others, and destroy’d all the People on the Island, except five, who escap’d on pieces of Timber to the Rock where _Weyber Hays_ resided with forty Men, who being inform’d what the aforesaid Villains had done, prepar’d for resistance with sharp-pointed Sticks, those People on the second Rock being also slain by _Zeevang_, who spared onely some Women and seven Boys; after which _Hieronymus Corneliszoon_ took _Lucretia Jans_ for his Wife; in like manner _Huissen_ took _Judith Sebastiaens_; the remaining Women serv’d the rest for Concubines. Not long after twenty of them going in Sloops, fell upon _Weiber Hays_, who valiantly resisted them: but because _Hays_’s Life was of great consequence, by reason he might give notice of their Actions to the Ship which was expected from _Holland_, and which they design’d to run away with, therefore they renew’d their Assault with fifteen Men more, and were again beat off; wherefore they resolv’d to make a Peace, which _Hieronymus Corneliszoon_ promis’d to ratifie the next day; nevertheless this Peace was but feigned, for under pretence thereof they deliver’d Letters to several _French_ Soldiers that were under _Hays_’s Command, promising each six thousand _Guilders_ if they would joyn with them; but they shew’d the Letters to _Hays_, who keeping it secret, that he might draw on _Hieronymus Corneliszoon_, not mistrusting the Discovery, to come thither at the appointed time, took him Prisoner, and caus’d _Zeevang_, _Huissen_, _Welderen_, and _Cornelis Pieterszoon_ to be put to death; but _Wouter Loos_ making his escape, was chosen chief of the Rebels, who ventur’d a fourth Assault, but returning without any effect left off making any farther Attempt. Mean while _Pelsaert_ arriving with the _Sardam_ Frigat from _Holland_, sent a Boat ashore, which by a little Skiff dispatcht by _Hays_, was inform’d of all the Passages; whereupon the Boat returning, _Pelsaert_ as he was putting himself into a posture of Defence, espy’d a Sloop coming about the Southern Point of the Island, in which were eleven of the Rebels clad in Scarlet with Silver Lace, which making directly towards the Ship, as soon as they came up, were commanded to throw away their Arms over-board; which having done, and coming aboard the Frigat, they were all put in Irons, as also their remaining Party, and condemn’d to die. Opposite to the _Abrolhos_ on the Main Coast, a plain Countrey extends it self thirty Leagues in length, inhabited by the _Ouetacates_, a cruel People, who continually either destroy one another, or else make sad slaughters amongst their Neighbors. The County _Porto Seguro_ belongs to the _Spanish_ Duke of _Avero_, but is very much decay’d. [Sidenote: The Beast _Capybara_.] The Rivers _Moucuripe_, _Caruvelas_, and _Lucuru_, breed abundance of Water-Hogs call’d _Capybara_, which have short Feet, Bristles and Ears, a thick Body and Head, with a bearded Snout, besides two Tusks, and twenty four lesser Teeth in each Jaw, but no Tail; they feed on Grass and Bushes in whole Herds on the Shore, and make a terrible noise; and though they cannot run fast, yet they dive and swim extraordinary quick. [Sidenote: The _Tapiirete_.] The _Tapiirete_ also resembles a Hog, especially in its Head and Feet, but is as big as a Heifer of six Moneths old, hath a Snout hanging over its under Lip, a Mouth full of Teeth, and on its Skin short and dark colour’d Hair. This Beast is very libidinous, and in the Nights spoils the Fruit-Trees, especially the Sugar-Canes, but in the Day-time it sleeps in Thickets. The Flesh of a young _Tapiirete_ tastes like Beef. Lastly, the Inhabitants of _Porto Seguro_ are plentifully supply’d with Rabbets, and the more, because there being divers sorts of them, (some say five) they are taken in great abundance, either in Traps, Snairs, or Gins, or by discovering their Holes; for the Hunters stopping the entrance of them, dig a Hole directly over the place where the Coneys lodge, and so kill them with long Pike-staves in the Ground. [Sidenote: Five sorts of Rabbets in _Brasile_.] Of these five sorts of Rabbets in _Brasile_, the chiefest, call’d _Paca_, hath a thick Head, little Ears, their fore-Feet bigger than their hind-Feet, short, hard, and brown Hair, speckled grey on the Sides, but no Tail: The Flesh of this sort of Rabbets is very delicate. The second sort is the _Tupesi_, which being like a Hare amongst us, may as well be accounted of that kind. The _Aguti_ resembles our Rabbets, onely it hath harsh brown Hair, round Ears, bald Feet, gruntles like a Hog, hath two Toes more on their hind-Legs than on the foremost. The _Cavia Cobaya_, though less than the _European_ Rabbets, excell them in soft and divers-colour’d Hair, distinguish’d by white, red, and black Spots; their Head and Teeth resemble those of a Rat, but it hath no Tail: No Rabbets can be made tamer than these, and if carry’d to any remote Countrey, breed as well there as in _Brasile_. The last of all is the _Aparea_, which differs little in running from a Hare, as also in respect of the Head and Beard, harbors more in rent Cliffs than in sandy Ground. [Sidenote: The Tree _Tucum_.] The Soil of _Porto Seguro_ bears two sorts of Palm-Trees, _viz._ the _Tucum_ and _Airi_; the _Tucum_ hath small Boughs full of prickly Leaves, and a fruit not unlike the Damask Prune, hanging in Clusters of three or four hundred together; and being excellent Food to fatten Hogs and Apes; also when press’d yielding a clear Oyl, which is highly esteem’d: the Fruit when ripe grows black without, and within hath a white Kernel: of the Leaves the _Brasilians_ spin fine and strong Thred. [Illustration] The _Airi_ grows much higher than the _Tucum_, and hath also longer Leaves, a Body full of sharp Thorns, and a round Fruit full of white and oylie Pulp, but not eatable; the Wood hard, heavy and black, sinks in the Water, and the _Brasilians_ make their Clubs of the same. [Sidenote: The Bird _Cocoi_.] Along the Rivers flie the Birds _Cocoi_, resembling Herons, though in beauty they far exceed them; they have but little Flesh, long sharp Bills, of a yellowish green colour, and curious Crests of Feathers on their Heads, which fall back over their Necks; their Flesh when young is delicate. SECT. VI. Los Isleos. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Los Isleos_.] Next _Porto Seguro_ borders the Countrey _Los Isleos_, so call’d from its chief Town, which consists of a hundred and fifty Houses, (or perhaps by this time many more) eight Sugar-Mills, a Cloyster for the _Jesuits_, and a Church. The Inhabitants live by Tillage, and Transporting of Provisions in little Barks to _Pernambuco_. Seven Leagues farther in the Countrey, beyond the Town of _Isleos_, lies a nameless Lake three Leagues long, as many broad, and above ten Fathom deep, and full of the Fish _Manati_, which are very large and well tasted, besides abundance of Crocodiles; and in windy Weather the Water is as rough as if it were in the Ocean. Out of this Lake flows a River by a Passage so narrow, that a Boat can scarce pass through the same. Round about this River live the _Guaymures_, the most salvage People of all _America_; they are of a Gigantick size, have white Skins, carry exceeding great Bowes and Arrows, live without Houses like Beasts, devour Mans-flesh like Tygers, never Fight in Companies or Armies, but watch to surprize a single Man or Beast; they also eat their own Children, and possess’d formerly all the Land from the River _St. Francisco_ to the Promontory _Frio_; but beaten from thence by the _Tupinambas_ and _Tupinachias_, they went to the County _Los Isleos_, which they Invaded in such a manner, that the _Portuguese_ were not onely forc’d to leave several Sugar-Mills, but also the whole Countrey. SECT. VII. Bahia de Todos los Sanctos. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Todos los Sanctos_.] Next to _Isleos_ borders _Bahia de Todos los Sanctos_, belonging to the _Portuguese_. The Inlet which borrows its Denomination from all the Saints, gives Name to this eminent County. The Bay great and wide, and in the middle from twelve to eighteen Fathom deep, lies in thirteen Degrees Southward of the _Equinoctial Line_. The Coast rises white along the Sea side. The Current according to the course of the Sun runs six Moneths towards the South, and as many towards the North. The opening of the Inlet is on the South, but it flows up Northerly, and contains two Leagues and a half in breadth; several fresh Rivers discharge their Waters into the same: The utmost and biggest Island _Taperica_ breaks off the Waves which come rowling in from the Ocean. Those that Sail into the same must have the Island on their left Hand, and the Main Coast on their right, which is known by a Promontory, on which the Fort _Antonio_, and the old City _Villa Veja_ are built, near a little Bay with a Foreland on the North, from which the Main Coast circling like a Half-Moon ends near the Point _Tapagipe_, which juts out from _Bahia Todos los Sanctos_. The Castle _Tapesiepe_ stands on the utmost Point, where the Countrey winding towards the East makes the Inlet larger, from whence a narrow Channel runs up into the Countrey, and there makes a Lake which extends North and South: from the Mouth of the Lake the Coast reaches Northward to the River _Pitanga_, which comes gliding out of the East, and in its Passage receives several Streams, on whose Banks stand divers Sugar-Mills. From _Pitanga_ the Coast extends a League Northward, then Westerly with a crooked Elbow, in whose circumference lie two nameless Isles close under the Shore; this Elbow ends in a blunt Point, about half a League from which lies the Island _Mare_, a League long, in the Mouth of the River _Pitanga_. To the Northward from hence a River disembogues in the said Inlet. More Southerly appears _Monks-Isle_, from whence the Coast extends it self Northerly, where several Islands appear at an exact distance from the Coast; the first beyond the fore-mention’d blunt Point, is _Birapebiara_; the next, which lies closer to the Shore, _Porto Madero_; next comes in view a long Island in the Mouth of a River, from whence the Countrey extends Westward, and fronts the Island _De Fuentes_, as doth also the River _Tambaria_, which comes out of the North, but empties it self with a crooked Arm near the rest; from hence the Coast with two little Bays runs North-West to the Stream _Geresipe_, in whose Mouth, which is pretty large, appear three Isles on a row, the utmost whereof is call’d _Caraibe_, the middlemost _Pycca_, the innermost hath no Name, but divides the River into two Channels; from hence the Coast bends with several Inlets, into which fall divers Rivulets towards the South, from the River _Cachoera_, full of little Isles, opposite to which stand several Sugar-Mills. Against _Cachoera_ appears the Island _Meve_, and more Southerly _Taperica_, between the sharp Point _Tapagipe_ and the Castle _Antonio_. Near the fore-mention’d the City _St. Salvador_ was built by _Thomas de Sosa_, who weighing Anchor from _Lisbon_, _Anno 1549._ Landed safely near _Villa Veja_, and about half a League from thence pitch’d upon a Hill, and took order forthwith for the erecting of his new City there, giving to each of his Followers a place to build on: the _Jesuits_ chose the large Plain where at present stands the Church Consecrated to the Virgin _Mary_; the Names of the said _Jesuits_ were _Juan Azpilcueta_, _Antonio Pireo_, _Leonardo Nonnio_, _Didaco Jacobeo_, _Vincentio Roderigo_, and _Emanuel Nobrega_; whilest the common People set themselves to the building of Dwelling-houses: But when _John_ the Third, King of _Portugal_, sent a Priest thither to Teach in the new Church of _Maria_, the fore-mention’d _Jesuits_ remov’d from thence to a high Hill, which they call’d _The Mountain Calvarien_, whither divers _Brasilians_ came flocking, and pitch’d their Tents about the Cloyster, admiring their strange Neighbors. [Illustration: SINUS OMNIUM SANCTORU] When _Sosa_ Landed on the fore-mention’d Shore, the _Portuguese_ had but little footing on _America_; for their Plantations at _Isleos_, _St. Vincent_, _Pernambuco_, _Villa Veja_, _Itamaraca_, and _Porto Seguro_, discover’d by _Pedro Alvares Capralis_, _Anno 1500._ were run all to ruine. Beside the City _St. Salvador_ and the decay’d Town _Villa Veja_, the City _Paripe_ lies three Leagues farther into the Countrey, consisting of three thousand Families, and eighteen Sugar-Mills: The Countrey about the same produces plenty of Cotton. The Island _Taperica_, which is pretty large, hath a fertile Soil for the production of Tobacco, and Grass to fatten Cattel: The Inhabitants boyl much Train-Oyl of the Whales, which come ashore there in considerable numbers. Twelve Leagues Southward from _St. Salvador_ appears the Village _Cacocheira_, formerly belonging to a rich _Portuguese_, who took great pains in reforming the salvage People _Guaymures_ to a civil Life; but seeing he profited but little, he caus’d great Companies of them to be remov’d to _Taperica_, that they might do less mischief, where the unusual and unwholsom Air kill’d them all in a short time. The Lordship _Bahia_ hath abundance of Sugar-Mills, which are either turn’d by the Water, or drawn by Oxen. [Illustration] [Sidenote: The manner of Planting Sugar-Canes.] [Sidenote: The Worm _Guirapeacopa_.] [Sidenote: The manner of making Sugar in the Sugar-Mills.] The Sugar-Canes, by the _Brasilians_ call’d _Viba_ or _Tacomaree_, grow better in a clayie and fat Soil, over which the Rivers flowing leave their Mud, than on High-lands, Hills, or Mountains; they are Planted after this manner: They first plough their Fields, weed them, and make Holes at an exact distance one from the other, into which they plant their Canes in such a manner, that the tops touch one another. The Holes before mention’d require more Earth to fill them in Summer than in Winter, that the violent Heat of the Sun may not dry up the Root, and that the Rain may the freelier come at them to moisten them, for the more moisture they have, the better they grow; they attain to their full ripeness in ten, or at most in twelve Moneths; _February_ and _March_ being the two last Winter Moneths, are accounted the best to Plant in, because the Earth softned by Rains, suffers the Root to shoot forth the better. The ripe Canes being cut off, are left in the Field till the following Year; during which time new Canes growing, are often ground in the Mill with the old ones; but if they stand two years, then the sweet Liquor dries up, and the Cane withers. The young Plants carefully planted in good Ground may last forty, nay fifty years; but in a barren Soil they set new every five years. Sometimes in great Droughts and extraordinary hot Seasons, the Canes are scorcht to nothing, which being burnt in the Winter, the Ashes serve to Dung the Ground; and so in like manner when the Water, overflowing the Fields, drowns the young Plants. In moist Grounds the black-wing’d Worm, call’d _Guirapeacopa_, (by the _Portuguese_ nam’d _Pao de Galeuba_) gnaws the Roots in such a manner, that the Canes die; and sometimes it happens also that the Weeds choak the young Plants; wherefore the Ground is to be weeded four times a year, till such time as the Canes are strong enough to bear against the Weeds: they cut off the ripe Canes at the lowermost Joynt, and, all the Leaves being first pull’d off, tie them up in Bundles, and bring them to the Mills, which consist of three great Iron Bars, between which the Canes are squeez’d. The Water-Mills are turn’d by the force of the Water, which in great Gutters led from high Mountains falls with exceeding force into Pools made for that purpose; after which manner, though they wind the Canes much faster, yet they get not so much Sugar as when they grind them in the Mills turn’d by Cattel: The places through which the Juice runs must be cleans’d twice in twenty four hours; the Canes put in behind between the first Bar, are turn’d into the second, and thence into the third, which successively squeezes out all the remaining Juice: The Canes thus press’d, serve for Fewel to burn; but they constantly keep such a great Fire both Night and Day, that besides those press’d Canes, they burn forty Fathom of Wood in twenty four hours, insomuch that whole Woods are consum’d in a short time: The Liquor, nam’d _Caldo_, runs along woodden Gutters into great Kettles, in which it is boyl’d, but if it happen to be over-boyl’d they put Water amongst it, whereby it becomes excellent Food for Horses; then they put the Liquor into a second Kettle, where it is boyl’d afresh, and also scumm’d; and for the better cleansing of it, Lime-Juyce and other things are put amongst it; then they strein it through Clothes, and give the Dross which remains in the same to the Slaves, which work for half a year together Night and Day like Horses. The Dross mix’d with Water makes also good Wine. Out of the great Kettles, by the _Portuguese_ call’d _Caldero de Mellar_, the _Caldo_ runs into the lesser nam’d _Tachas_, where it is boyl’d a third time, and continually stirr’d till it comes to be thick like a Syrrup, and at last to the consistence of Sugar: It may be accounted amongst the Mysteries of Nature, that while the Sugar boyls in the _Tachas_, which are the little Kettles, they must drop Oyl amongst the Liquor, which if they should do whilest it is in the great Kettel, the Liquor would not turn to the consistence of Sugar; as on the contrary, if they should put their Lye into the little Kettles as they do into the great, the Liquor would be quite spoil’d. In their Boyling-houses stand several hundreds of Earthen Pots one by another on Planks full of Holes; which Pots they cover with moist clay, and after fourteen days knocking it out of the Pots, they separate the brown Sugar from the white, both which are laid to dry in the Sun, and put into Chests. [Illustration: OLINDA DE PHERNAMBUCO] SECT. VIII. Pernambuco. [Sidenote: Description of _Pernambuco_.] Northward from _Bahia de Todos los Sanctos_ lies _Pernambuco_, which extends along the Coast above seventy Leagues, between the River _St. Francisco_ and the Countrey of _Hamaraca_. _Pernambuco_, which signifies _Hells-Mouth_, is on the East wash’d by the Northern Ocean; in which grows a Weed much like an Oaken Leaf, and so thick, that unless it be cut to make their Way, impedes the Sailing of Ships. [Sidenote: Several sorts of Fish.] The Sea is also very full of Fish, which in calm Weather are visible sixty Fathom deep, and are taken in greater abundance than they are able to spend; for they no sooner let down a Bait, cover’d with Feathers and Tallow, but the Fish immediately swallowing the same, are taken. Here are in the first place abundance of _Hays_, a Fish so rank and oylie, that they are not eatable, but their Brains are accounted good against the Stone. There are also hereabouts a sort of flying Fish like Herrings, but not so big; they have Wings like Bats, which carry them above Water whilest they are wet; they swim in shoals, and are chased by all other Fishes, which endeavoring to escape by flight out of the Water, they become a prey to the Sea-pies. The Sea-Breams are as well tasted as the flying Fish; the Mariners cover them in Salt, or stuff them within full of Salt and Pepper, and so hang them to dry in the Sun. _Pernambuco_ it self lying in five Degrees Southward from the _Equinox_, produces abundance of _Brasile_ Wood and Sugar-Canes, which last is no proper _Brasilian_ Plant, for the first Plants thereof were by the _Portuguese_ first transplanted thither from the _Canary_ Islands. [Sidenote: First Discovery.] This Countrey was first discover’d by _Americus Vesputius_, who being sent thither by _Emanuel_, King of _Portugal_, to discover the Coast between the Promontory before _Olinda_ and the Island _Itamaraca_, and finding a split Rock and some _Brasilian_ Huts, Landed, and ask’d the Denomination of the Coast, which he was inform’d was call’d _Pernambuco_, which he found full of steep Mountains, inaccessible Woods, and in some places Plains and pleasant Valleys; but the chiefest thing he could find to lade his Ship with, was _Brasile_ Wood; but being inform’d that the Soil would bear Sugar-Canes, he caus’d _Canary_ Sugar-Plants to be Set there. [Sidenote: Chief Towns and Places of note.] _Olinda_, formerly the chief City of _Pernambuco_, had (according to _Lopez_) above three thousand Houses and seventy Sugar-Mills: It is built on several Hills, which on the North-side are steep and overgrown with Brambles; betwixt which in many places grow Orange-Trees. _John Newhof_, who arriv’d at _Olinda_ Anno 1642. found a few _Netherlanders_ and _Spaniards_ there, who dwelt in the ruin’d Houses. The Land-side of the City is strengthned by Hills overgrown with Brambles and Thorns, and towards the Sea-side with Earthen Walls, fortifi’d by fourteen Bulwarks and a Stone Castle, able to withstand a considerable force: The Out-works towards the South were maintain’d by _Jews_, who from the fore-mention’d Hills could see not onely a great way into the Ocean, but also the River _Biberibi_, which hath a Stone Bridge leading to the City, and Northerly and Westward the Way lies through great Woods and Forrests. _Olinda_ it self is divided into twenty seven large Streets, besides lesser Lanes and several Avenues, and five chief Churches, _viz._ _Misericordia_, _Nostra Sennora del Emparo_, and _Nostra Sennora de Guadalupe_, _San Salvador_, and _San Pedro_, besides two others of lesser note. On the highest Hill stands the _Jesuits_ Cloyster, built square and high, and surrounded with Walls, on which _Sebastian_ King of _Portugal_, by the perswasion of his Uncle Cardinal _Henry_, spent a great sum of Money, and endow’d it with annual Revenues, _Anno 1571._ The _Capuchins_ also built a stately Cloyster towards the East. The _Franciscans_ moreover inhabited a magnificent Building, near which stood the Governors Palace. The _Carmelites_ had also a stately Edifice, whose former lustre still appears by the Ruines, where now Cattel graze; from the Hills about which may be exactly discern’d _Reciffa_, the Promontory of _St. Augustine_, and the Castle before the Road of _Reciffa_: Along the Shore stood the _Dominican_ Cloyster, and in the upper part of the City the Minster, Consecrated to _St. Bento_, exceeding strong both by Nature and Art; near which stood _Conceptio de nostra Sennora_. The Fort _Juan de Albuquerque_ stood on the South-side, from whence a Way leads you along the Shore to _Reciffa_, where hard by the Potter’s House stood a Beacon. But since _Olinda_ fell into the hands of the _Netherland East-India_ Company, they built a strong Fortress on the North near the Sea-side, where formerly a great Trade was driven with Sugar, insomuch that forty Ships have been fraighted in a day therewith from _Olinda_, and still as much more remain’d in the Store-houses. The Sugar cannot be made without the help of _African_ Slaves, and that in great numbers; for _Angola_ alone provided fifteen thousand four hundred and thirty _Moors_ for the Sugar-Mills about _Olinda_. [Sidenote: The Expedition of _Loncque_.] [Sidenote: _Olinda_ taken by the _Hollanders_.] [Sidenote: The Fort _St. George_ taken.] In the Years 1601, 1602, and 1623. there was sent to surprize this City _Henrick Loncque_, who a little before with _Peter Peterszoon Hein_ took the _Spanish_ Plate-Fleet, and brought it away from _Matanca_. In the middle of _June_, Anno 1629. _Loncque_ weighed Anchor from the _Goerean_ Road, and between great _Canary_ and _Teneriff_ he was Engag’d (having but eight Sail) with forty _Spanish_ Ships, Commanded by _Frederick de Toledo_, fought his way through the midst of them, and near _St. Vincent_ (the rest of his Fleet being come up to him, which in all made up twenty seven) he stay’d for a farther promis’d Supply of Ships to assist him, and the longer, because the Men rais’d by the _Netherland West-India_ Company were taken into the _States_ Service, to oppose the _Spanish_ and Imperial Forces, who at that time had gain’d some advantage upon them: But not long after _Hartogen-bosch_ being taken by the _Hollanders_, the rest of the expected Fleet, with the promis’d Aid, arriv’d at _St. Vincent_; from whence _Loncque_, after four Moneths stay, set Sail with these additional Forces, his Fleet then consisting of fifty Sail of Ships, which carry’d above seven thousand Soldiers, besides Seamen; but he was forc’d to lie a considerable time under the _Line_, being either becalm’d or beaten back by contrary Winds, insomuch that many of his Men perish’d, or were disabled with the Scurvey: At last his Fleet being come to an Anchor upon the Coast of _Pernambuco_, the first that Landed about two Leagues Northward of _Olinda_, was Colonel _Diederik van Waerdenberg_, who by Day-break divided his Men into three Divisions, the Forlorn-Hope consisting of nine hundred and thirty four Men, march’d towards _Olinda_ along the Shore, led by _Adolf van der Eltz_; the second being a thousand and forty nine, by _Stein Callenfels_; the third, consisting of nine hundred and sixty five, was led by _Fouke Honx_: thus drawn out, and marching on, they met with no resistance till they came to the River _Dolce_, where eight hundred _Portuguese_ Charg’d on them from behind a new Sconce; but _Waerdenberg_ wading up to the Middle through the River with two Field-Pieces, the Enemy left his Works and ran into the Wood; the Forlorn-Hope approaching the City, march’d up towards the right side, up a Way through the Woods, Scal’d the Walls, near which the _Jesuits_ Cloyster stood, over which he got after some resistance. The second Party march’d in a narrow Path along the Shore, and broke into the City between the _Franciscans_ and _Jesuits_ Cloyster, towards the Cathedral _Salvador_, from whence they discharg’d several Guns, as also from the Castle, which they had taken, whilest _Fouke Honx_ Storm’d the Battlements towards the South; but _Stein Callenfels_ and _Eltz_ being already Masters of _Olinda_, the Defendants surrendred all. Mean while the Colonel’s Skiff brought five hundred Men more ashore, with which he march’d without any hinderance into the City, where the Conquerors, faint with excessive Heat and want of Water, found but little Booty, because the Inhabitants having notice of the _Hollanders_ coming, had convey’d all their Goods and Wealth to _Reciffa_, which the Governor _Matthias Albuquerque_ (Brother to the Lord _Duarte Albuquerque_, to whom _Pernambuco_ properly belong’d) burnt with all the Store-houses, partly out of revenge to the Inhabitants, who fled contrary to his Commands, and partly because he would not enrich the _Hollanders_. The _Portuguese_ Captain, _Correa de Castel Blanco_, in his Letter to the King of _Spain_, values the loss at twenty hundred thousand _Ducats_. But still the _Portuguese_ had possession of several Forts about the Countrey, whereof the most considerable was _St. George_, whither _Stein Callenfels_ march’d in the Night with six hundred Men, but his Ladders being too short, and the Hand-Granado’s not easily taking fire, he was forc’d to Retreat; whereupon judging it most convenient to besiege the Castle, he digg’d Trenches about the same; nor was it long ere the Besieged desir’d Quarter, which being granted, they march’d from thence with ninety Men. The Water Castle surrendring in like manner, they found fifteen Brass Guns therein; and in that of _St. George_ four thousand pound of Gun-powder, and twenty four Iron Guns. When the _Netherland_ Forces Landed on _Pernambuco_, the _Portuguese_ inhabited eleven Towns, the chiefest whereof being _Olinda_, was generally Garrison’d by four Companies of Armed Citizens, each containing a hundred Men and three Companies of Soldiers: Amongst the Citizens were two hundred Merchants, some of whom were judg’d to be worth fifty thousand _Crusados_. Southward from _Olinda_, between the River _Biberibe_ and the Ocean, was a narrow Cawsey, at the end of which lay the populous Village _Reciffa_, where the Ships lade and unlade. About the middle of the Cliff, being a League long, is the Anchoring place for great Ships, call’d _Pozo_. At the end of the fore-mention’d Cawsey against _Pozo_, appear’d a round Tower of Fre-stone. [Sidenote: The memorable Exploits of the _English_ under Captain _James Lancaster_.] The Journal kept by the _English_ Fleet that came hither under the Command of Captain _James Lancaster_, Anno 1595. makes mention of a Fort which lay at the Mouth of the Haven before _Reciffa_, which the _English_ valiantly Storm’d, notwithstanding six hundred Men and seven Brass Guns might easily have made it invincible: But they conquering the same, march’d up to _Olinda_, took the Suburb, consisting of a hundred Houses, without any resistance, as also a great Booty, and the greater, because the Goods of a rich _Carak_ which had some few days before suffer’d Shipwrack, were kept there; they also took fifteen laden Ships, and for thirty days kept the whole Countrey about _Olinda_ restless with continual Alarms. Since this Invasion the _Portuguese_ built a third Fort on _Reciffa_, so that the Ships must pass in between two Forts, where the Channel is also full of Rocks, and consequently the more dangerous. From _Reciffa_ the Goods are sent in Barques or Lighters to _Olinda_, between which and _St. Salvador_ run the two great Rivers _Francisco_ and _Real_, the first whereof retains its freshness twenty Leagues into the Ocean. Along the River _Popitinga_ stand many Sugar-Mills; and five Leagues farther Northward beyond _Olinda_ the _Portuguese_ inhabit these Villages, _viz._ _Garasu_, _Reciffa_, _Moribeca_, _Antonio de Cabo_, _Miguel de Poyuca_, _Gonsalvo de Una_, _Povacon de Porto Calvo_, _Alagoa del Nort_, and _Alagoa del Zur_, besides other _Brasilian_ Hamlets, and above seventy Sugar-Mills. [Sidenote: The nature of the Soil in _Pernambuco_.] The County of _Pernambuco_ hath for the most part a good Soil, several Plains, low Hills, and fruitful Valleys, abounding with fair Canes, which also grow on the Mountains _Masurepe_, _Zebaatan_, _Poyuca_, and _Moribeque_. The Wilds of _El Gran Matto_, afford the best Wood, with which they drive the greatest Trade in the Village _Laurenzo_. Whilest _Matthias Albuquerque_ Intrench’d himself a League and a half Westward from _Olinda_, by the Sugar-Mills belonging to _Francisco Montero_, with a hundred _Portuguese_, and three times as many Armed _Brasilians_, _Loncque_ finding that he could not long keep the City _Olinda_ against the Enemy, caus’d the same to be pull’d down and burnt. [Sidenote: _Sergippo del Rey._] Between the Rivers _Francisco_ and _Real_, lies the Town _Sergippo del Rey_, up in the Countrey near a small Rivulet, which at Spring-Tydes hath fourteen Foot Water. The Woods round about feed wild Cattel, and the Mountains contain Mines of Gold and Silver. The first Plantation in _Brasile_ was in the Island _Itamaraca_, three Leagues long and two broad, but extends its Jurisdiction along the Main Coast, from which it is separated by a narrow River, which runs betwixt both thirty five Leagues. The Countrey is eminent for twenty Sugar-Mills, and abundance of _Brasile_ Wood. [Sidenote: _Villa de Conception._] The chief Town of this Island is call’d _Villa de Conception_ near the Sea, which round about the Island is full of Rocks. The _French_ settling themselves here at first, were driven from thence by the _Portuguese_. The Town it self, built on a Rock, hath a strong Castle on the one side, erected near a shrubby Moor; to the Northward of which _Stein Callenfels_ found a little Isle, scarce a Musquet-shot long, which at High-water is overflown, and being full of small Trees makes a Receptacle for Sea-Fowl, which flock thither about six a Clock in the Evening to Roost on the Boughs, from which, when once setled to take their repose, they will not stir till six of the Clock the next Morning, though you discharge Guns at them all Night; but since _Stein Callenfels_ cut down the Wood to make Pallisado’s for the new Fort against the Town _Conception_, they were never seen afterwards. SECT. IX. Parayba. [Sidenote: Description of _Parayba_.] Northward from _Itamaraca_ borders the County of _Parayba_, whence the _French_ Ships carry’d yearly several Ladings of _Brasile_ Wood, till _Anno 1585._ the _Portuguese_ General _Martin Leytam_ drove them from all places, since when they never recover’d any part thereof. [Illustration: OSTIUM FLUMINES PARAYBÆ] This Territory of _Parayba_ borrows its Denomination from the chief Town, lying five Leagues from the North Sea near the River _Parayba_, which in the Summer Season hath but little Water, but in the Winter Season increases to that heighth, that it oftentimes on a sudden overflowing the Countrey sweeps away both People, Cattel, and Houses. The City it self, though small, yet hath several fair Buildings, amongst which three Churches and as many Cloysters, inhabited by _Franciscans_, _Carmelites_, and _Benedictins_, are none of the meanest. The Countrey thereabouts indifferently fruitful, hath twenty Sugar-Mills. The Mountain _Cupaguao_, formerly very populous with Natives, being exceeding fertile, produces all manner of Fruit; at present it lies desolate, the _Brasilians_ being all destroy’d by the _Portuguese_. These Mountains produce also curious green Stones, which the Inhabitants wore in their Lips for an Ornament, and which also cures the Griping of the Guts, by being laid upon the Belly. [Sidenote: The Silver-Mine _Copaoba_.] The _French_ under the Command of Captain _Dourmigas_, discover’d ninety years ago the Silver-Mine _Copaoba_, and for considerable time carry’d Silver and _Brasile_ Wood from hence, till the _Portuguese_ made themselves absolute Masters. Moreover, on the North-side of _Parayba_, the Salvages call’d _Petiguars_ inhabit sixteen Villages. [Sidenote: Strange Birds.] Amongst the Birds of prey which breed here, are the _Ouyaourassou_, twice as big as a Crane, with curious Feathers, and so bold and strong, that it devours not onely Sheep, but Deer and Men. The Bird _Mayton_ is no way inferior in beauty to the Peacock, his whole Body being cover’d with white and black Feathers; on his Head grows a Tuft; the Flesh is also very pleasant to the taste. The _Toucan_, another Bird, resembles a Turtle-Dove in all parts, except the Bill and Breast; for the Belly is ten Inches long and three broad, the Breast of an Orange colour, mix’d with Crimson Spots; the remaining part is white, the Back red, and the Tail and Wings Coal-black. [Sidenote: The Plant _Yarammacarou_.] The Plant call’d _Yarammacarou_ deserves also a peculiar observation, _viz._ It is thicker than a Man’s Thigh, grows twelve Foot high, with three Branches of equal length and thickness, which you may easily break; it is green without, white within, and without Leaves, leaving red Blossoms streak’d with blue, from whence grows a Fruit about the bigness of an Apple, crimson without and white within, and tasting like a Mulberry. [Sidenote: The _Guara-tereba_, with other strange Fish.] The River _Parayba_ produces amongst many other Fishes the _Guara-tereba_, which hath a thick Body, flat Head, crooked Back, split Tail, and triangular Scales, which laid in the Sun, shine like polish’d Gold. The Sea also hereabouts affords a strange Fish with a very long and thin Tail, the Females whereof Lay every day Eggs like Hens: they are full of poysonous Prickles, and divided into several sorts, amongst which the chiefest are accounted the _Naainari_ and _Jabebara_. [Sidenote: Description of the Sea Coast of _Brasile_.] [Sidenote: Strange Tree.] The Sea-Coast of _Brasile_ from _St. Vincent_ to _Spirito Santo_ appears as followeth: Before the Coast of _St. Vincent_ lie the four little Isles _Queimadas_, and on one side the _Alcatraces_ and _Busios_; East North-East from which bears the Island _Sebastian_: Before the Inlet _Ubatuba_ lies the Isle _Dos Porcos_, close under a high Shore, where the Haven runs far up in the Countrey. Fourteen Leagues farther the Island _Grande_, stor’d with fresh Water, with Fish-ponds, Woods, and two good Havens. Before the Road of _Garatuba_ appear several broken Isles, the chiefest whereof is _Morambaya_. The Ships Sailing along the _Brasilian_ Coast view next the Mouth of the wide River _Jenero_, without fear of Rocks or Shoals. Moreover, a sandy Ground extends from the Western Point to _Cape Frio_, which rises out of the Sea like a Rock, with white Streaks, and crack’d on the top, between both which the high Island before _Frio_ makes a safe Harbor. Nine Leagues beyond _Frio_ to the Northward, _St. Salvador_ opens a large Bay, hemm’d in on the South by divers nameless Isles. Lastly, the several Salt-pans along this Coast are very remarkable, as also the Promontory _St.Thoma_ and _Parayba_, the Inlets _Manangea_ and _Itapemeri_, and the River _Guarapari_, famous for the Mountain _Pero Cam_ towards the North, and _Guapel_ to the South. The Island _Salvago_, round and mountainous, lies before the Mouth of the River _Guarapari_, where the Main Coast grows uneven and Hilly. On the North-East Point of _Spirito Santo_ a long ridge of Rocks appears above the Sea; and near the Inlet rises three black Hills on the South, and two Leagues up in the Countrey the broken Mountain _Mestre Alvaro_, which extends along the Sea-Coast. The River _Des Reyos Magos_ encompasses three Mountains severally, and makes three Isles. The Coast on each side of the River _Dolce_ is very plain and even, but _Cricare_ hath a mixture of high and low Lands. In the Mouth of the River _Maranipe_ lies a great company of white Shelves near together, appearing afar off as if all one. _Parairepe_ is remarkable by the high Trees growing on it. The Mouth of the River _Caruvelas_ lies full of Sand-plats. Near the Beacon _Tauhaen_ rises a red Cliff from which a sandy Point reaches to the River _Curubabo_. Before _Porto Seguro_ lie several dangerous Rocks in the Sea, to the Southward of which rises the High-land _Cape Pasqual_. Not far from hence _Santa Cruiz_ a good Haven for small Vessels, from whence the Coast extends North North-East, and South South-West, to _Rio Grande_, where the Shoals call’d _Baxos de St. Antonio_, making a dangerous Entry, force the Ships for the most part to keep three Leagues from the Shore. Beyond the Arm of _Rio Grande_ appear three high Mountains cover’d with Trees; from whence to _Ilheos_ is a safe Passage free from Shelves. Eight Leagues farther, the River _Dos Contas_ runs between two broken Cliffs into the Sea: in the Mouth of it rises a Rock resembling a high Island. Between _Ilheos_ and _Contas_ the Coast rises also, but falls low again in a Bay, where white Sugar-Mills, formerly belonging to _Lucas Giraldes_, are seen at a great distance. The Countrey on each side of the River _Camanu_ is plain; the Stream it self hath a wide Mouth, and respects with its Northern Shore the Isle _Cayepa_, dangerous for the many Shelves which are about the same. The River _Tinhare_ is known by the Mountain _Morro de Santo Paulo_, which rises like a Galley on the Southern Shore. Twelve Leagues farther opens the Bay of _Todos los Sanctos_, on whose Eastern Point stands the Castle _Antonio_, and before the Northern Shore the Island _Topoam_, to the East and South-East low and strong. The River _Das Pedras_ falls with a wide Mouth into the Ocean. Next you pass by the Streams _Tapicuru_, _Real Vasabaris_ and _Francisco_, known by a low Promontory. The Rivers _Miguel_, _Antonio_, _Camaragili_, _Porto Calvo_, _Formoso_, and _Serinhaem_, disembogue also into the Sea. Next the Stream _Das Pedras_ rises the Promontory _St. Augustine_, all overgrown with Bushes and Brambles. Five Leagues Southward lies the small Isle _Alexo_. The Coast from _St. Augustine_ to _Pernambuco_ extends North and by East, and South and by West. The Island _Tamaraca_ lies in the Mouth of the Stream _Gajana_; and fifteen Leagues farther appears _Parayba_; between which two the Shelf _Pedra Furada_ extends three Leagues along the Coast, and another from the Shore of the Promontory _Blanco_, where the Road _Porto de Franeses_ affords Seamen secure Anchorage for Shipping. Next to _Parayba_ follow the Havens _Treicaon_, _Pipa_, and _Basios_, the Stream _Siara_ and _Maragnan_, which washes the Western part of _Brasile_, and is taken for the Boundary between the _Spanish Indies_ and the _Portuguese_, according to the Division by Pope _Alexander_ the Sixth, _Anno 1502._ Lastly, there belongs to _Brasile_ the Island _Fernando de Noronho_, in three Degrees of Southern Latitude. The Capuchin, _Claude de Abbeville_, going thither, found the same to be six Leagues in circumference, and extraordinary fruitful; besides good fresh Water, Pease, Beans, _Maiz_, Potato’s, Melons, Cotton, Cattel, wild Goats, and all sorts of Poultrey, which this Island affords; but it chiefly abounds with great variety of a sort of Birds which suffer themselves to be caught with the Hand. There grows likewise a nameless Tree, not unlike the Laurel, being of a strange Nature, for who e’re touches the Leaves, and afterwards rubs his Eyes, loses his Sight for four hours, with exceeding pain; which pain nevertheless another Tree growing in the same Island cures immediately. The _French_, who Landed on _Noronho_ Anno 1613. found a _Portuguese_ there, with eighteen _Brasilians_, Men, Women, and Children, banish’d thither from _Pernambuco_, whom Baptizing, they carry’d to _Maragnan_. Near _Noronho_ lies the Isle _De Feu_. SECT. X. Maragnan. [Sidenote: Situation.] _Maragnan_, forty five Leagues in circumference, lies in two Degrees of Southern Latitude, and a considerable distance from the Bay, which appears between the Rivers _Aperegha_ and _Comajamu_. The Eastern Entrance into this Bay hath before the Promontory _Arbres Secs_, the Isle _St. Anna_, by the _Brasilians_ call’d _Upaonmiri_. Opposite to _Maragnan_, about half way from the said Inlet, fall three Rivers into the Sea, the most Easterly call’d _Mounin_, hath a Mouth a Mile wide, and discharges its Water into the Sea; the middlemost _Taboucourou_, is five hundred Leagues long, and ends with two Mouths, half a League distant one from the other; the most Westerly, call’d _Miary_, is about six Leagues broad, so falling into the Sea. The Stream _Maracou_ falls into the _Pinare_, and thus united they joyn both with the _Miary_, which runs exceeding swift into the Sea. Between the Capes _Arbres Secs_ and _De la Tortue_, the Coast lies full of sandy Banks, some of which extend a League into the Ocean. On the other side of the Promontory _Tapoytapere_ near _Maragnan_, towards the River of _Amazones_, lie so many Isles along the Sea-shore, that no Ship is able to approach the same, because the Spaces between the Isles are overgrown with Trees call’d _Apparituriers_, whose Boughs shooting down and rooting in the Sea, produce other Trees, which grow so close together, that they seem one entire Tree with many Branches. Besides this Inconvenience there is abundance of drift Sand when the Wind sits from the Shore, which oftentimes swallows the Ships which lie upon the same. Beyond _Maragnan_ lie two Roads, the first between the Promontory _Arbres_ and the Isle _St. Anna_, but dangerous; the other, discover’d some years since, reaches to the Fort of _Maragnan_, and is as dangerous as the first. This Island hath twenty seven Villages, by the Natives call’d _Oc_ or _Tave_, each Village consisting of four Houses made of great Stakes, and cover’d with Palm-tree Leaves against the Rain, each House being thirty Foot broad, and from two hundred to five hundred Paces long, according to the greater or lesser number of Inhabitants. The first Village, opposite to _St. Anna_, is call’d _Timbohu_; the second, well known for two eminent Fishing-places, is _Itapara_; but the two biggest are _Juniparan_ and _Eussaouap_, each having about five or six hundred Inhabitants. This Island of _Maragnan_ lies under a temperate Climate, being seldom troubled with excessive Colds, Droughts, pestilential Vapors, Wind, Hail, or Thunder, only it Lightens Morning and Evening in serene Weather. When the Sun returns from the _Tropick_ of _Capricorn_ to the North, then it Rains for six Weeks together; but when he declines from _Cancer_ towards the Southern _Solstice_, the _Trade_-Wind, or Eastern Breezes rise at seven of the Clock in the Morning, but grow fainter towards Sun-setting. [Sidenote: Fruitful Soil and rich Coast of _Maragnan_.] The Soil of _Maragnan_ is exceeding fruitful, producing abundance of _Brasile_ Wood, Sugar, Cotton, the red Colour _Roucou_, Tobacco, Balsam not inferior to the _Arabian_, Pepper, and all manner of Fruits. On the Coast is often found excellent Amber-greece and Jasper Stones, which the Inhabitants wore in their Lips. In some places along the Sea-shore appear Rocks of red and white Stone _Diaphanous_, like Crystal, which (some say) are as hard as Diamonds, and call’d _Allencon_. The Woods produce Timber, and the Shore Stones and Shells, of which they make Mortar. There are also several pleasant Fields and Hills, whose Feet are wash’d by delightful Brooks, along which they pass in _Canoos_ from one Village to another. The Woods consist most of Palm-Trees, amongst which breed all sorts of Fowls and Beasts. [Sidenote: Fruit-Trees.] The chiefest of the Fruit-Trees which grow here is the _Accayou_, which being much bigger than our Pomewaters, hath Leaves not unlike those of an Oak: and also a Nut resembling a Sheeps Kidney, cover’d with a hard Shell, which incloses an oylie Pith. Out of these the Islanders press a very wholsom and pleasant Liquor; as also out of the _Pacoeira_ and _Bannanas_, both excellent Plants, which will grow in any Ground. This Plant they pluck up by the Roots wild as soon as it hath put forth three Leaves; which Leaves being rowl’d up hard together like a Twig, are again Set, and then sprout up each with ten green Leaves, which when mov’d by the Wind, rattle like Parchment, and tear very easily: the Stalk is an Inch thick, from which spread several lesser Branches; under the Leaves hang yellowish Flowers of a pleasant smell, at whose Stalks are lesser Leaves resembling little Scoups, full of Juice, in taste like Honey, and in colour like the White of an Egg: after the Flower follows the Fruit, very like a Cucumber, onely they are three square, and have a hardish Shell, which incloses a well tasted and wholsom Pulp, which commonly grows in Clusters. This Plant, when the Fruit is ripe, is pluck’d up, from whence another springs up immediately, which bears the like Fruit the next year; so that this Plant lives as it were by propagation continually. The _Bannanas_ bear Leaves of a Fathom long and two Foot broad; the Fruit is very like that of the _Pacoeira_. The _Mangaa_ is very like the Apricock both in taste and form. The Tree _Jaracaha_ hath a spread Crown, leaves like those of a Fig-Tree, yellow Flowers, and Pears with Shells, and full of Kernels. The _Ouaieroua_ is an exceeding sweet-smelling Tree, bears a Fruit much bigger than the greatest Melons. The _Junipap_, which is much taller, hath Apples, which whilest they are green are best, yielding a Juice which Dyes Coal-black, and therefore is us’d by the Natives to paint their Bodies with: The Apples when ripe are yellow within and without, very well tasted, and melting in the Mouth. Besides these fore-mention’d Fruit-Trees there are several others that grow on this Island, amongst which is the _Vua-pirup_, eminent for its Blossom, which is yellow, blue, and red, and bears delicate Apples, which ripen best in the rainy Season. Lastly, the _Pekey_, which three Men cannot Fathom, bears a Fruit of two handfuls bigness, having a hard thick Shell, and within four Kidney-like Kernels, each concealing a prickly Stone, which hurts the Mouths of unwary Eaters. The Plant _Carouata_ hath Leaves an Ell long, and two Inches broad; they are very thick and thistly from the middle, and about two Foot from the Ground grows an exceeding pleasant Fruit, yellow without and within, three square, a Finger long, and hanging oftentimes sixty in a Cluster. _Vua_, a sort of Melons, green without, and within full of white Pulp and black Kernels, and hath a pleasant Juice, dissolves to Water, if cut in the middle, sweeter than Sugar, and very refreshing. _Manioch_, a thick Root of the Plant _Manicup_, Leav’d like a Fig-Tree; being ground to Meal, it serves in stead of Bread. Besides these already mention’d, there are several other Plants, the most usual are the great flat Beans call’d _Commanda-ouassou_, and the long Pease _Commanda-miry_. [Sidenote: Strange Birds.] Here are variety of Birds of several sorts, especially of Parrots, which flye in great Companies, most beautiful to the Eye, and very docible to speak, and also good for Food. The Partridges _Nanbououassou_, in bigness no way inferior to a Capon, have blue Feathers, and also Lay blue Eggs. The _Ourou_, resembling a Partridge, hath a Combe like a Cock, but mix’d with three Colours, _viz._ red, black, and white. The Bats, nam’d _Andheura_, have a mournful Note in the Night, often biting those they find asleep, and suck their Blood so hard that it can hardly be stopt. The Ostriches here call’d _Yandou_, being as tall as a middle-siz’d Man, cannot flye, but run as swift as a Greyhound. Their Fowl call’d _Falian_, with long Bills and Cranes Legs, flies very low, but runs so swift that a Horse can scarce overtake them. [Sidenote: Strange sorts of Fish.] The Ocean about _Maragnan_ produces abundance of all sorts of Fish, and amongst others the _Pyraon_, six Foot long, thicker than a Barrel, and cover’d with black Scales of a hand-breadth. The Fish _Camouroupouy_ differs not much from the _Pyraon_, onely in having fewer Scales. The _Ougry_, four Foot long, hath a broad Head, and two sharp Fins on the Back, which wound terribly. This Fish also swimming in the River, smells of Musk whilest it stays therein. The like length hath also the _Camboury Ouassou_, whose Hog-like Head, and yellow scal’d Tail, makes it seem like a Monster. The _Yauebouyre_ is a Foot in thickness, in length two Fathom, and a Fathom in breadth, and hath a Tail of half a Fathom long, out of the middle of which flicks a sharp and great Bone, which makes such dangerous Wounds, that if any part of a Man’s Body be touch’d therewith, it must be cut off. The _Narinnary_, which is much lesser, wounds with its Sting very dangerously. The flat Fish _Acaraiou_ hath the length of a Foot, a green Head, thick Scales, a yellow Back, and white Belly. The _Araououa_ hath a hard Skin, is eight times bigger than the _Acaraiou_ and hath a three-pointed Sword, with which it kills other Fish. Another sort of Sword-fish is the _Panapans_, whose Sword is a Foot less than that of the _Araououa_. The _Picamo_ and _Caramourou_ resemble the Pilchard, and are taken in great abundance near the Rocks. The Rivers and Brooks on _Maragnan_ are also very full of Fish, amongst which the _Pourake_, four Foot long, full of green, blue, red and white Specks and Streaks, the Skin so hard that no Sword can penetrate it; wherefore it regards not a blow, but if it moves, it causes such a pain on the Arm of him that strikes, that he falls down on the Ground. The _Caurimata_, which is very like a Carp, is the most delicious Fish that ever was tasted. The _Pyrain_, without Scales, colour’d red and yellow, hath sharp Teeth, which cut sloapingly; as also the _Opean_, _Tarehure_, _Paraty_, and _Jerou_. The red Crabs _Oussa_, with hairy Legs, breed about the Roots of the fore-mention’d Trees that grow in the Water. The white Crabs _Aouara-oussa_ carry the Amber-greece, cast on the Shores to their Holes. They have also good Mussles, and well rellish’d Oysters sticking on the Boughs of the said Trees. During the rainy Season there are generally standing Pools, in which yearly breed many Fishes, which are taken up by the Inhabitants when the Pools begin to dry. [Sidenote: Divers kinds of strange Beasts.] Moreover, this Island feeds abundance of four-footed Beasts, amongst which their wild Deer, Rabbets and Hares, differ little from the _European_. They have also wild Swine call’d _Taiassou_, who seem to have Navels on their Backs, which cast a sweet Musky smell; besides another sort of Swine, not inferior to the former, but of a stranger shape, being Mouth’d like a Hare, with two long Tusks in their upper Jaws, and two beneath; their Ears like a Mans; the foremost Feet white, and hoof’d like an Ass; the hindermost part of their Body like a Bear, and full of Bristles, half white and half black, three handfuls long: when they creep in their Holes their staring Bristles fall; they keep much amongst Brambles, feed on Apples and Roots; In the Winter Season they Stye themselves up in their Holes. Here are also Pismire-eaters, call’d _Tamandua_, with a Boars Head, Dogs Ears, sharp Snout, Horses Hair, and Ox Feet. The _Tapiyre-ete_ differ little from wild Cows, onely they have shorter Legs and Tails, and wanting Horns, are Arm’d in stead thereof with Teeth; in their Heads are often found a Stone like the _Bezoar_ Stone. Several sorts of _Armadillo_’s here differ much in form each from the other. The wild Cats _Margaia_ are caught for their curious Skin. The Foxes _Janovare_, and Leopards _Sovassovaran_, both curiously mark’d, are very ravenous. Here is also a deform’d slow creeping Beast call’d _Ai_, whose Head is like a Mans, and cover’d with rough and grey Hair, on each Foot three Claws close together, and at least a Finger long, sharp Teeth, a smooth high black Nose, little drowsie Eyes, no Ears, a Tail small above and broad at the bottom, long Ash-colour’d Hair over all the Body; and being about the bigness of a Fox, it climbs slowly up the Trees, and comes not down before it hath eaten off all the Leaves; it feeds also on Earth, and sometimes sits on a high Bough without Meat twenty days together; it goes so softly, that it will hardly clear fifty Paces in twenty four hours. On this Island are likewise all sorts of Apes and Monkies, amongst which is one most remarkable, call’d _The Zimme Cayon_, hairy all over, with a long white Beard, an old Mans Face, bald Ears, black Eyes and long Tail, which they wind about a Bough, and so hanging, swing themselves from one Tree to another; they are very fierce as well as subtile, for being wounded with an Arrow, they set upon their Enemy without the least fear; when they climb up the Trees, they carry their Mouths and Hands full of Stones to throw at Travellers; and if any one of them chance to be wounded, all the rest that are near come to help him, and stop the Wound with Leaves, and the like; the young ones hang upon the Backs of their Dams, who run very swift with them, and leap from one Tree to another. [Illustration] _Juan Ardenois_ relates, That the _Coyons_ play at certain Games with the Natives for Money, and spend what they win in publick Houses. _Joseph de Acosta_ tells us, That one of these kind of Creatures being sent to a Tavern for Wine, would not part with his Money before his Pot was fill’d, which he defended from the Boys that offer’d to take it from him, by throwing Stones at them; and though it lov’d Wine very well, yet brought it always home without tasting. It is no less wonderful what _Peter Martyr_ relates of one of these Creatures, _viz._ That observing one ready to fire a Gun at him, before he could discharge, it leap’d from the Tree and snatch’d up a Child, which he held as a Buckler before him. [Sidenote: The _Sagovin_.] The _Sagovin_ resembles a Lyon in the fore-part of the Body, with shaggy Hair; they are exceeding dainty and tender, yet so stubborn and sullen, that they take pet at the least affront, and often pine themselves away and die with hunger. [Sidenote: The _Boyete_, and other sorts of Serpents.] The Serpent _Boy-ete_, two Fathoms long, without Legs, having a bright speckled Skin and four sharp Teeth, wounds also mortally with its Tail; but is the less dangerous, because at the end of the Tail grows a Bladder, which moving rattles as if there were Pease in it, which gives notice to the Traveller, though unwary, by which means he makes his escape. The other Serpents call’d _Jouboy_, _Tara-gouyboy_, and _Tarehuboy_, serve the Natives for a great Delicacy; as also the great Toads or Frogs, call’d _Tourourou_. They have also a sort of Flies call’d _Ton_, which exceedingly molest them, against which their chiefest Medicine is Palm-tree Oyl, and the _Roucou_, with which they colour their Skins. The Natives of this Island of _Maragnan_, driven out of the pleasant Countrey _Cayete_ by the _Portuguese_, are a sort of the _Toupinambas_, who Setled here about a hundred and fifty years ago. The time of their first coming hither us’d formerly to be solemniz’d with the great Feast call’d _Caoven_; but because a Woman boldly set upon a Commander in his Cups, there arose a great Tumult amongst them, and ever since the Island hath been divided, one Party calling the other _Tobaiares_, that is, _We are Enemies_: They are so inveterate against one another, that who e’re they take Prisoners they unmercifully devour: Both are of a middle Stature, have flat Noses, which the Midwives make at the Birth of the Child, they are generally a strong People, and many of them living a hundred years, without being grey, bald, or sick; they live temperate, and under a wholsom Climate: Some of their Women bear Children (as they say) till they are eighty years of age, which being born white, turn to be of a Tawny colour, by being anointed with Suet call’d _Roucon_, and Oyl; otherwise they are well proportion’d. The Men pluck out all the Hair of their Foreheads, but suffer it to hang pretty long over their Ears, and behind. The Women let their Hair hang down to their Middle, and wear woodden Ear-rings, but the Men hang green Beads in their Lips, and thrust little Bones through their Noses. They go all stark naked, their Legs are colour’d black with the Juice of the Herb _Junipap_, and upon the other parts of their Body appear Figures of several Representations. Those that will manifest their Valor, and be accounted hardy, gash their Bodies all over with Wounds, which they heal in such a manner, that the Scars may more plainly appear. They never come to their usual Feasts, but dress’d up in various colour’d Feathers; upon the Crown of their Heads they wear Caps stuck with Plumes, which they call _Acangoap_, or Coronets, call’d _Acangerar_; about their Necks, the Necklaces _Aiouacava_; over their Shoulders, the Mantles _Assoyave_; their Garters they call _Tabacoura_, at which they hang hollow Nutshells full of little Stones, which gingle and rattle as they go, and about their Arms Armlets call’d _Mapouyh-couaychovare_; all which are curiously checker’d with various colour’d Feathers. The _Maragnans_ live not much up in the Countrey, but rather on the Sea-Coast, because of their Fishing, removing every sixth year, calling the Village where they Settle, by the former Name. They take every Man as many Wives as he pleaseth, but the Women must stick each to one Man, unless she be Divorc’d from him, which often happens upon small occasions. Their Cotton Hammocks call’d _Yu_, on which they sleep, hang between two Stakes, in which they lie. Singular Friends and Relations Feast one another daily; but they are cruel and revengeful against their neighboring Enemies, whom, when they take any of them, they fatten, kill, and eat. The least affront done them, or injurious word spoken to them, or against their Predecessors, makes them take up Arms, which consist of Bowes and Arrows, which they call _Ouyrapar_ and _Oune_. Here the _French_ have built the Fort _St. Lovis_ on an Island, from whence Westward may be seen the Cape _Tapouytapere_, which at High-water seems like an Island, and lies four Leagues from thence; at Low-water they can walk over the Sands from the same to the Main Land. This fruitful Countrey hath twenty populous Villages. Westward lies _Comma_, which gives Denomination to the chief Village, the River, and the rest of that Countrey, wherein are sixteen more handsom Villages, better built, and more populous than _Maragnan_ or _Tapouytapere_. Concerning the building of the fore-mention’d Fort on _Maragnan_, it hapned as followeth: [Sidenote: The occasion of building the Fort _Maragnan_.] [Sidenote: A Colony of _French_ sent over into the Island of _Maragnan_.] [Sidenote: Driven out by the _Portuguese_.] [Illustration: I TAMARACA] [Illustration: FL VIUS GRANDIS] [Illustration: SIARA] The _French_ Captain _Riffaut_, upon the Advice of _Ouyrapive_, who bore a great sway amongst his _Maragnan_ Subjects, fitted out three Ships; but because of a Contention between the Sea-men, and the loss of his chiefest Vessel, he was forc’d to Sail to _France_, and leave some of his Men on _Maragnan_, under the Command of a young Gentleman call’d _De Vaux_, who carry’d himself so discreetly amongst the Islanders, that they promis’d to embrace the _Christian_ Religion, if new Supplies came from _France_ to assist them against their Enemies; of which _De Vaux_ advis’d the _French_ King _Henry_ the Fourth, who approv’d of it, and sent Monsieur _De la Ravardiere_ to _Maragnan_, to make a farther Enquiry into the whole Matter, where he spent six Moneths; after which returning he found the King murder’d, wherefore the Business lay dead for a while; but at length _Ravardiere_ took with him the Lord _Rosilly_, and the Baron of _Sansi_, desiring some _Capuchins_ of the Queen-Mother, for the promulgating of the _Christian_ Religion in _Maragnan_; which being granted, they set Sail with three Ships _Anno 1612._ with which arriving safely there, and Landing, he built next the chiefest Haven the Fort _St. Lewis_ on a Hill, by whose foot two Rivers glide into the Ocean. After which this new Plantation went on for a considerable time, till the _Portuguese_ overpowering them, drove them out of this their new Field, making themselves absolute Masters of the Fort, and also of the great Mountain _Ibouyapap_, four Leagues high, plain on the top, twenty four Leagues long, and little less in breadth. No Champain under the Sun is more pleasant and fruitful than this; for in some places it is shaded with Trees, in others hath brave Pastures, lies under a wholsom Climate, and abounds with fresh Springs, from whence are deriv’d store of Brooks, and Rivulets full of Fish. SECT. XI. The Lordships Tamarica, Rio Grande, Siara, and Para. [Sidenote: Description of the Lordship of _Tamarica_.] The _Præfecture_ of _Tamarica_, not above three Leagues in length and two in breadth, so call’d from a little Island lying before it, and part of its Precinct, is counted the first, that is, the most ancient Lordship of _Brasile_, having otherwise nothing in it that is very considerable, save onely a good Haven or Port, with a Castle for the Security or Command of it, held to be impregnable, and so found by the _Dutch_, who under _Peter Heyn_ and _Stein Callenfels_ in vain attempted the taking of it, as shall be mention’d hereafter more particularly, but made it useless to the _Portuguese_, by making a Bulwark at the Mouth of the Haven, and so blocking it up. This _Capatania_ yielded formerly a Rent of thirty thousand _Ducats_ to the Earls of _Montesanto_, whose Right it was. [Sidenote: Description of the Lordship of _Rio Grande_.] The _Præfecture_ of _Rio Grande_, a small Precinct, so denominated, as lying on the South-side of that great River which the _Portuguese_ call _Rio Grande_, and the Natives _Potingi_, where it falls into the Sea, was once possess’d by the _French_ about the Year 1597. who were outed by the _Portuguese_, and the Place fortifi’d both against them and the Salvages, (of whom they slew and took Prisoners very great numbers) with a Castle, which the _Dutch_ in the Year 1631. found an impregnable piece, and too hard for them to take. [Sidenote: Description of the Lordship of _Siara_.] The _Præfecture_ of _Siara_, so denominated from the Haven; it hath long been in the possession of the _Portuguese_, but they have therein no Towns of note, onely a Castle, and some few Houses for those that attend the gathering of Cotton-Wool, and Manuring of the Sugar-Canes, which are here in great abundance, also the Countrey is said to afford some Crystal and other Precious Stones. [Sidenote: Description of the Lordship of _Para_.] Lastly, the _Præfecture_ of _Para_ is the most Northerly part of _Brasile_, bordering upon _Guiana_, so call’d from the River _Para_, which runneth through the midst of it, upon which, in a convenient place, and upon rais’d Ground, the _Portuguese_ have built a very strong Castle, well Wall’d on all sides, save onely towards the River, where it is planted with Ordnance: It is built in a quadrangular form, and hath at least three hundred Persons of the _Portuguese_ Nation (besides the Garrison Soldiers) belonging to it, who have all Employment enough about the Cotton-Wool, Sugar-Canes, and Tobacco, which the Countrey is said to afford in great plenty. _A Relation of the Proceedings of the_ Netherland West-India _Company in_ Brasile _to the Year 1658_. The chief Disturbers of the _Portuguese_ in the possession of the Countrey of _Brasile_, were the _United Netherlanders_; for they having had good success with their first Fleet, under the Command of _John Molenaer_, _John Dignumszoon_, _John Schelinger_, _Simon Mau_, and the Merchants _Cornelis Woodman_, _Gerard Beveningen_, and _Heinier van Hel_, Anno 1595. in the _East-Indies_, where they got such footing, that they took whole Kingdoms, to the great enriching of the Eastern World, where they spread their Trade over the whole Countrey, were thereupon emboldned to venture also to the West, that thereby they might cut off the Sinews of the King of _Spain_’s Wars, he being continually supply’d with Treasures from _America_. [Sidenote: A _West-India_ Company erected by the _United States_.] [Sidenote: _St. Salvador_ set upon by the _Dutch_ under _Peterszoon_ and _Willekens_.] [Sidenote: _St. Salvador_ taken by the _Dutch_.] The grand Promoters of this Design were the Company of Merchants, who hitherto had Traded to _Guinee_; and the rather, because _Guinee_ brought them but little Profit. But to set upon the _Spanish_ Power, was a Business of no small Consequence; nevertheless they undertaking it, obtain’d Letters Patents from the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_, Anno 1621. for erecting of a _West-India_ Company, in which it was declar’d, That none without the said Companies leave should drive any Trade to _Africa_ from the Northern _Tropick_, to the Cape _Bonne Esperance_; nor to _America_ from _Terre-Neuf_ to the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, or _Le Maire_; nor in the South Sea to _Anian_; which if any attempted, they should forfeit Ship and Goods; besides several other Priviledges and Immunities granted towards the promoting and establishing of the said Company. After a long Consultation which way to steer their Course, it was concluded upon in the Council for the Affairs of the Company, to Invade _St. Salvador_ in the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, whether they sent twenty Men of War and three Ketches, Commanded by _Jacob Willekens_, and _Peter Peterszoon Hein_; the Land Forces being under the Command of Colonel _John van Dorth_. In the beginning of the Year 1624. the Fleet set Sail out of the _Texel_ and the _Maes_, and in five Moneths arriv’d at _St. Salvador_. As soon as the _Portugueses_ discover’d the _Dutch_ Fleet, they shot without ceasing from the Fort _Philippo_ with three Brass Guns, as also from the Castle _Tapagipe_, with four Demi-Canons, but chiefly from the Battlement rais’d threesquare out of the Water before _St. Salvador_, from whence they play’d at them with twelve great Guns, whilest the Vice-Admiral ran within Musquet-shot of the said Battlement with three Ships, and found fifteen _Portuguese_ Vessels lying near the Shore not far from the Castle _Philippo_, where there began a sharp Conflict, to the no small advantage of _Peter Hein_; who thereupon ventur’d with three Boats to Board the fifteen Ships: which resolute Attempt of the _Dutch_ Seamen so amaz’d the _Portuguese_, that they set their biggest Ships on Fire, and fled ashore: Those Ships that escap’d, being in all ten, the _Hollanders_ took and brought them to the Fleet. This flight of the _Portuguese_ encouraging _Peter Hein_, he went with fourteen Boats, each Mann’d with two hundred Arm’d Men upon the very Mouths of the Cannons to the fore-mention’d Battlement and took the same, notwithstanding the Stone Wall rose eight Foot out of the Water, and above a hundred _Portuguese_ defended it, whilest the Admiral _Willekens_ sent twelve hundred Soldiers, and two hundred and forty Seamen ashore with Field-Pieces. The Forlorn-Hope consisted of sixty Musquetteers, led by Captain _Helmond_, who was seconded by Lieutenant _La Main_, all the Seamen following with Spades and Pick-axes; the Reserve was brought up by Captain _Kyf_, _Ysenach_, and _William Schouten_; thus drawn out, they were led towards the City by the Guides _Dirk Colver_ and _Dirk de Ruiter_, along a narrow Way, which the _Portuguese_ might have guarded with a few Men, had they not been all struck with a pannick fear, and making use of the dark Night, fled into the Woods. The _Dutch_ found in the City an incredible Booty, because the Governor _Diego Mendoza de Furtado_ had forbid the carrying away of any Goods, that so the Citizens might be the easier perswaded to defend the City; which they might well have done, had they not been surpris’d with the suddenness of the Action; for when _Willekens_ Anchor’d here, there were above sixteen hundred Soldiers, besides a considerable number of Arm’d Citizens in _St. Salvador_; besides, in the Forts about the City on the Walls lay twenty three Brass, and twenty six Iron Guns. [Illustration: Urba SALVADOR] This Victory was scarce obtain’d, when Colonel _Dorth_, who had lost the Fleet at _Point Vincent_, arriv’d here after all was done, and caus’d Edicts to be publish’d, in which the fled Citizens were promis’d greater Priviledges under the _Netherlanders_ Protection, than ever they had under the King of _Spain_. Whereupon a few _Portuguese_ return’d to the City; but the greatest part of them, and those the most considerable, were partly kept back by Command of the Bishop _Teixera_, who laid the fault concerning the loss of the City on the Governor _Furtado_, and partly because they judg’d the _Netherlanders_ unable to defend them against the _Spanish_ Power. About the same time several rich laden Vessels arriv’d there from _Lisbon_, _Janeiro_, _Spirito Santo_, _Angola_ and other Places, all ignorant of the Conquest of _St. Salvador_. [Sidenote: Col. _Dorth_ kill’d by an Ambuscade.] Whilest _Dorth_ and _Willekens_ were ordering all things within the City, the outstaying _Portuguese_ at last taking courage, Storm’d the City from Midnight till the next day in the Afternoon, but fearing they should be set upon behind unawares, Retreated; after which _Dorth_ thinking he had been free from all fear of Enemies, and with a small Guard riding out of the City to take a view of the adjacent Countrey, was scarce got a Bowe-shot from the Walls, when a great Body of _Brasilians_ rush’d forth unexpectedly from an Ambuscade, and wounded him so mortally, that he fell dead from his Horse, and had his Head suddenly chopt off, and his Body mangled very terribly. _Allart Schouten_ being chosen Governor in _Dorth_’s stead, took no care to fortifie the City; and after his Decease his Brother _William Schouten_ succeeding him, regarded it less, so that all things went to ruine, every one striving onely to enrich themselves. Amongst other Booties, they took the rich laden Vessel which _Francisco de Sarmiento_, Governor of _Chili_, brought to _St. Salvador_, with fifty eight thousand _Guilders_, and a much greater sum of Gold and Pearls, all which was imbezled away. [Sidenote: Description of _St. Salvador_.] This City _St. Salvador_, built by _Thomas de Sosa_ along the Sea-side, runs up broad at the Suburb _Carmo_, hath four Market-places, into the biggest whereof, being of a long square, run nine Streets, the chief of which being very broad, hath many stately Houses. The second Market-place is of like form, onely it winds a little towards the Right, and at the Entrance stands a strong Prison. The Cloyster _St. Francis_, inhabited by _Jesuits_, stands in a Park near the Wall by which the Moat runs. Towards the Sea-side they have a second Structure, much statelier than the _Franciscan_ Cloyster. Near the Prison stands the Armory, and somewhat farther the great Church, which _Anno 1624._ was not quite finish’d. The Church dedicated to the Virgin _Mary_ appears with a high Spire near the Gate _Bento_, without which the great Cloyster _Bento_ is built; but the chief Church is _St. Salvador_. On the utmost Point towards the South-West of the City lies the Fort _Antonio_, between which and the City stands a very neat Pleasure-house, belonging to the Bishop. Besides _Antonio_ there are four other considerable Forts, _viz._ _Diego_, _St. Maria_, _De Gracia_, and _Vittoria_. About half way between _Vittoria_ and the Cloyster _Bento_, stands the Castle with four Bulwarks; but on the North-side the City is guarded by the Forts _St. Peter_, _Philippo_, and _Tapecipe_. [Sidenote: A great Fleet set out by the King of _Spain_ for the recovery of _St. Salvador_.] The _Spanish_ King seeming exceedingly concern’d at the loss of so eminent a Place, fitted out a great Fleet for the recovery of what had been taken from him; but the _Netherland West-India_ Company having notice of it, put themselves into a posture of Defence, and in a short time made ready eighteen Men of War and seven Ketches, Mann’d with a thousand six hundred and ninety Seamen, and a thousand three hundred and fifty Land-Soldiers, _John Dirkszoon Lam_ being Admiral: But news coming day after day of the extraordinary Preparations in _Spain_, it was judg’d convenient to strengthen the Fleet with fourteen Ships and two Ketches more, carrying a thousand four hundred and thirty Seamen, and five hundred eighty Soldiers, under the Command of General _Boudewyn Henrickszoon_, and Admiral _Andries Veron_. Moreover, the _West-India_ Company fitted out a third Fleet, consisting of four Frigats and three Ketches, Commanded by _Henry Kat_, with Orders to Cruise along the _Spanish_ Coast. In the beginning of the Year 1625. _Frederick de Toledo_ weighed Anchor from _Cales_ with one and thirty Gallions, four Pinnaces, three Tartans, and a Carvel, all carrying seventy five hundred Men. The Soldiers were divided into three Regiments, Commanded by the Colonels _Pedro Osorio_, _Juan Orellana_, and the Marquess _De Torreclusa_. [Sidenote: _St. Salvador_ re-taken by the _Spaniards_ from the _Hollanders_.] Near _St. Jago_ at the _African_ Cape _Verde_, _Toledo_ joyn’d with the _Portuguese_ Fleet, consisting of twenty one Gallions and fourteen Carvels and Barques, Mann’d with four thousand Seamen, two Regiments of Soldiers, Commanded by _Antonio Nunnez Barreio_, and _Francisco de Almeida_; but the chief Commander of this Fleet was _Emanuel Meneses_. Which great Fleet being arriv’d at _St. Salvador_, _Toledo_ himself Landed at the Fort _Antonio_, leaving the Command of the Fleet to _Juan Fajardo_: The first thing he did, was to set upon the Cloyster _Bento_; which having gain’d, he left Serjeant _Troppani_ with two Regiments in the same, whilest he went and Storm’d the _Carmelites_ Minster, and at last took it; but in the mean time four hundred _Hollanders_ Sallying out, made a furious Onset upon the two Regiments, who had possession of the Cloyster _Bento_, where the _Spaniards_ sustain’d considerable damage; for besides the wounding of three Captains, and the loss of a great number of Soldiers, there were slain the Commanders _Emanuel Aquitara_, _Alonso de Gana_, _Pedro San Stevan_, _Diego Espinosa_, and Colonel _Pedro Osorio_; But _Toledo_ no whit dismay’d hereat, but taking fresh courage, brought twenty nine Demi-Culverins ashore, which fir’d so vehemently out of the _Carmelites_ and _Bento_’s Cloysters, on the seventeen _Dutch_ Ships that lay near the Shore, that several of them were sunk, and others shatter’d beyond hopes of ever being repair’d. After this the _Spanish_ Army was divided into three several Parties, which continually fir’d on the City from three new rais’d Works; the chiefest Party, which was in the _Carmelites_ Minster, had twenty three Brass Guns; the second, plac’d on the great Wall of the Cloyster _Bento_, fir’d Night and Day with eight Demy-Cannons on the City, in which all things were in a confusion, whilest the Governor _William Schouten_ went unconcern’d from one Tavern to another railing at the Soldiers, who thereupon mutinying and deposing him, chose Serjeant _Hans Ernst Kyf_ in his room, who, as he was calling a Council of War, receiv’d a Summons from _Toledo_ to deliver up the City; at which _Kyf_ being much surpris’d, sent a Drummer with a Letter to _Toledo_, desiring him to grant the Besieged three Weeks time to repair and make fit their batter’d Vessels to carry them back for _Holland_; and also that they might, according to Martial Custom, march out with lighted Matches, flying Colours, Bullets in their Mouths, and with Bag and Baggage. To which _Toledo_ return’d Answer, That he was now in his own Countrey, and had gotten possession of four Fortifications about _St. Salvador_, on which he had planted thirty seven Cannons, and therefore saw no such necessity to grant the Besieged (who could not possibly expect any fresh Supplies) such advantageous and bold Demands; and onely promis’d them their Lives should be at his discretion. Yet at last _William Stoop_, _Hugh Antoniszoon_, and _Francis du Chesne_ being sent to the _Carmelites_ Cloyster, agreed with _Toledo_ on these Conditions: _That the_ Hollanders _should surrender_ St. Salvador _in the Condition it was then in, march out unarm’d, but with Baggage, and have a free Passage with Provisions and all things necessary allow’d them for their Transportation for_ Holland. Whereupon on the first of _May_ the City was deliver’d up to the _Spaniards_ in such disorder, that some of them had taken possession of the Gate _Bento_, before those on the other side of the City knew of any Agreement that was made between _Toledo_ and Colonel _Kyf_. And thus the Place which had a whole year been under the Jurisdiction of the _Netherlanders_, fell again under the possession of the _Spanish_ Crown, onely through the indiscreet management of the Commanders; for otherwise it was sufficiently strong, and well stor’d with Ammunition and Men, being able to make out two thousand. Moreover, the Ketch _De Haes_, was set out before from the _Holland_ Fleet, and brought news of the Forces that were sent from the _Netherland_ Havens to their assistance: But the Ships under Admiral _Lam_, as also those under _Boudewyn Henriczoon_, were stay’d a considerable time in their Harbors by contrary Winds, and at last reaching the _Line_ were becalm’d, and through the excessive heat of the Climate many Men lost by raging and mortal Distempers, insomuch that they reach’d not the Bay _Todos los Sanctos_ before the twenty sixth of _May_, on which they saw the _Spanish_ Flag streaming from the Walls of _St. Salvador_, and fifty great Ships riding at an Anchor near the Shore. [Sidenote: The City _Porto Rico_ surpriz’d by _Henrickszoon_.] [Sidenote: Capt. _Uzeel_ slain.] The _Netherland_ Fleet, divided into four Squadrons, consisted of thirty four Sail, amongst which _Lam_ carry’d the Flag on the Main-top, the Vice-Admiral _Adrian Cheszoon_ on the Fore-top, the Rere-Admiral _Andries Veron_ on the Main-mast, and the Commander of the fourth Squadron on the Mizne-top: All of them seeing the _Spaniards_ absolute Masters, judg’d it most convenient to put to Sea; but standing a pretty while to the South, they found that the strong Current drove them to the Shelves on the West-side of the Inlet; wherefore Tacking about, they made towards the Enemy, who at first seem’d to meet them with twenty eight great Ships, but returning towards the City, the _Hollanders_ also stood to Sea again, Steering Southerly, though without making much advantage in their Way, the Sea going very hollow, and the strong Current setting them towards the Shore, by which means they were in no small danger before the River _Francisco_, where many of the Men dy’d for want of fresh Provisions, and the number of the Sick increas’d daily, insomuch that some of the Ships were like to perish for want of Men to guide them: It was also judg’d dangerous to lie longer with such a great Fleet near a Lea-Shore, therefore they put into the Inlet _Trayciaon_, which lies a League to the Northward of the River _Monguapigape_, from whence a ridge of Rocks extends to _Trayciaon_, and being overflow’d at High-water, hath three Openings or Entrances, two for great Ships, and one, the most Northern, for small Vessels to pass through: The Sea also breaking against this Cliff never molests the Ships whatever Winds blow. The Countrey is overgrown with Brambles, and hath a Lake two Leagues long, and a quarter broad, on the opposite Shore of which stood a Village, inhabited by _Portugueses_ and _Brasilians_; but the _Portugueses_ flying from thence left the _Brasilians_ in absolute possession: The _Hollanders_ going thither found thirty Chests of Sugar in one Hut; after which the Admiral _Lam_ caus’d his sick Men to be brought ashore, whilest the Captains _Boshuisen_, _Swart_, _Dyke_, _Stapels_, and _Uzeel_, march’d up into the Countrey, where they got plenty of Oranges and Cattel. In the mean time the Ketch _Vosken_, Mann’d with thirty six Seamen, Cruising along the Sea-Coast of _Brasile_, took three Ships, one out of the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, laden with Sugar and Tobacco, another with the same Merchandise from _Pernambuco_, and the third laden with Wines from _Madera_. On the first of _August_ the Fleet set Sail again, to the great sorrow of the _Brasilians_, who out of hopes of being protected by them against the _Portuguese_, had joyn’d their Forces with theirs; but now being forsaken, they expected nothing but utter Ruine; which to escape, many of them desir’d to be admitted to go along with the Fleet, which had been granted them, had not the _Hollanders_ wanted Provisions for themselves. The Fleet getting off at Sea, the Admiral _Veron_ ran with twelve Sail to the Coast of _Africa_; and _Boudewyn Henrickszoon_ kept eighteen Ships under his Command, the rest returning home with Admiral _Lam_: and thus the Fleet left the unfortunate Haven _Trayciaon_, where above seven hundred _Dutch_ Seamen were bury’d. _Boudewyn Henrickszoon_ refreshing at _Cape St. Vincent_, steer’d Westerly, when a Storm (which in twenty four hours blew from all Points of the Compass) surprising him, broke his Main-mast, separated the whole Fleet, and sunk the _Flushing_ Frigat; at last getting beyond the Isle _Virgin Gorda_, the Fleet meeting again, got to _Juan de Porto Rico_ about the latter end of _September_; into whose Haven _Henrickszoon_ Sail’d with great courage, notwithstanding the narrow Mouth thereof was guarded by a strong Fort full of Brass Guns, which fir’d very fiercely upon him, who on the other side was not idle in discharging his Guns on the Fort; and had not the shallow Water before the City prevented his Landing that day, he had gotten a far greater Booty than afterwards he met with; for the Inhabitants had, during the Low-water, remov’d all their best Goods: but the next Morning before Sun-rising, the Admiral Landed with eight hundred Men, march’d into the City without any resistance, pitch’d the _States_ Flag on the Governor’s House, guarded all Avenues, unhoop’d all the Wine-Casks which he found there, for fear his Men should make themselves Drunk therewith, and so neglect their Duty, fir’d from the Land-side towards the Castle with three Brass Guns, gain’d the Redoubt, built for the security of the Bridge, which unites the small Isle on which _Porto Rico_ is built with the great, rais’d a Platform, from whence he fir’d Day and Night with six Cannons, guarded by Captain _Thyene_, whilest the Commander _Uzeel_ kept Watch near the Fort; but his Men being most of them sick, he could not do any great Exploits, especially since the _Spaniards_ Sallying out, as they did daily, kill’d many of the _Hollanders_, and amongst them Captain _Uzeel_, after he had shot down two Turrets from the Castle, which damage the Enemy repair’d by taking several of the _Hollanders_ Boats; by which means they could not prevent fresh Supplies from going to the Castle; the Besiegers in the mean time beginning daily to be in greater want for Ammunition and Provisions: whereupon _Henrickszoon_ judg’d it convenient to sound a Retreat, after he had set the Ships belonging to the City _Porto Rico_ on fire in four places. In which Retreat he receiv’d so many farewel Shots from the Fort, that they were forc’d to go to the Leeward to stop their Leaks, and leave one of their Ships to the Enemy, in lieu whereof the _West-Capel_ Frigat took a Barque with four Brass Guns, in the little Haven _Sierra Gorda_; from whence the Fleet ran into the Western Bay of the Island _Porto Rico_, where whilest they repair’d and took in fresh Provisions, _Henrickszoon_ sent the Ships _Hester_ and _Jonas_ richly laden for _Holland_; the remaining part of the Fleet meeting with strong contrary Tydes at _Porto Rico_, were necessitated to put into the Inlet _Francisco_, where they made several Marches up into the Countrey, to the loss of many of their Men, which were kill’d by the _Spaniards_, lying in Ambuscade amongst the Brambles that grew along by the Ways. [Sidenote: The Fort of _Margarita_ taken by _Henrickszoon_.] [Sidenote: _Henrickszoon_ dying, is succeeded by _Adrian Cheszoon_.] In the middle of _January_, Anno 1626. _Henrickszoon_ Sailing about the North of _Porto Rico_, steer’d to _Dominico_, and from thence along the Isles _Martinigo_, _Luzia_, and the Promontory _De tres Puntas_, towards the Island _Margarita_, where Landing, and Storming the Castle on the Land-side with fifteen Men, he gain’d the first Breastworks; but the _Spaniards_ stopping up the Way along which they were to return, they had without doubt been all slain, had not the Captains _Stapel_ and _Estienne_ come to their assistance; for the _Spaniards_ seeing them climbing up the Bulwarks, betook them to their Heels, after they had kill’d nine of the fore-mention’d fifteen, amongst whom were the Captains _Urk_ and _Molkman_: of those that leap’d over into the Ditch most part escap’d; those few that were taken inform’d the _Hollanders_, That the Way towards the Village, inhabited by _Spaniards_, was every where stopt up with Barricado’s, through which none were able to pass. _Henrickszoon_ thus become Master of the Fort, sent the Booty which he had gotten there, together with three Brass, and five Iron Guns, aboard of his Ship, blew up the Fort, burnt all the Houses, and ran into the Haven _Muchina_, to which he gave the Denomination of _Port Maurice_; where, besides a great number of dry’d Fish, he took forty Tun of Salt out of one Salt-pit. After this he taking in fresh Provisions at _St. Fe_, discover’d _Aves_, a low Isle full of high Trees, took above two hundred Sheep, and abundance of red Wood on _Bonaire_, and before the Coast a _Spanish_ Frigat richly laden, made Inspections into the Havens of _Hispaniola_ and _Jamaica_; from whence he fell back on the Coast of _Porto Rico_, about the Island _Mona_, where discovering four _Spanish_ Ships, he took three of them, and burnt the fourth; he also got abundance of Tortoises and Crocodiles on the great _Caiman_, and took a new Ship between the little sandy Isles _Caios_, as also before _Cuba_ a Barque, which inform’d him, That the Fleet from the _Honduras_, as also that from _New Spain_, was daily expected at _Havana_: Thence Sailing into the Haven _Cabannas_, he took a new Vessel of a hundred Tun, and abundance of Timber and Carpenters Tools on the Shore; he Landed also with seven hundred Men on the East-side of the Haven, from whence he march’d along a narrow Path a League up into the Countrey, where he found a running Stream, Pastures full of Cattel, and a Village, the Inhabitants whereof being warn’d by the Barking of their Dogs, fled, and left all manner of fresh Provisions to the _Hollanders_, viz. above two thousand Oranges, abundance of Lemmons, _Bananas_, Hogs, Calves, and Bacon; all which having sent aboard, they burnt the Village: After this they took a _Spanish_ Barque before _Havana_, as also a Ship laden with Timber, another Barque with Poultry, _Cochenile_, Money, and Haberdashery Ware, one Vessel with live Tortoises, and another, full of Salt, dry’d Fish, and some Merchandise. While the Fleet was thus Cruising up and down before _Havana_, the Admiral _Henrickszoon_ dy’d; a Man of most approv’d Valor, and of great Conduct: After which _Adrian Cheszoon_ carry’d the Flag; but the Men mutinying about the dividing of the Provisions, which began to grow very scarce, all things fell into great disorder; the Seamen rebell’d against their Commanders, saying, _That they had been out long enough, and that they would not stay waiting any longer for the Fleet from_ New Spain _or_ Honduras: Wherefore steering Home, they all arriv’d safe at the _Texel_ and other places in _Holland_. In our foregoing Relation we have given you an Account of the Fleet which came to assist the City of _St. Salvador_, divided into two Squadrons; eighteen Sail _Boudewyn Henrickszoon_ kept under his Command, and twelve Sail remain’d in the Admiral _Veron_’s Squadron, who Sail’d to the Inlet _Serre Leona_, where he found the Admiral _John Dirkszoon Lam_ with three Ships, which had lay’n there above two Moneths, by reason of the Sickness amongst the Seamen. [Sidenote: A strange kind of Baboon.] _Frambore_, King of this Place, granted _Lam_ and _Veron_ free liberty to Hunt, and to gather as many Oranges and Lemmons as they pleas’d, with which the Seamen were so refresh’d, that they set Sail again, and amongst many other things carry’d a Baboon with them from _Sierra Leona_, which so exactly resembled a Man, that it was wonderful to behold, having a Body, Hands, Eyes, Ears, Feet, and Actions like a Man, smoak’d Tobacco amongst the Seamen, made a noise like a Child when beaten. The Inhabitants of _Sierra Leona_, where these Monsters run in great Companies through the Woods, believe that the Souls of the Deceased reside in them. _John de Laet_, in his annual Journal of the Transactions of the _West-India_ Company, affirms, That he saw a Female of these monstrous Creatures, which usually had her monethly Flowers. [Sidenote: The _Hollanders_ ill success before the Castle _Del Mine_.] The Fleet, as is before mention’d, Sailing from _Sierra Leona_, came to an Anchor at _Commany_, and Landed twelve hundred Men at _Poquena_, besides a hundred and fifty _Negro_’s; which Regiment _Andries Veron_ and _Arend Jacobszoon_ carry’d to the Castle _Del Mine_, whither they before sent a Company, Commanded by _Hans Gryf_, to prevent the Sallies of the Enemy. The _Hollanders_ tir’d and thirsty, Encamp’d themselves near the Fort, and whilest some of the Men were seeking for Water, others smoaking Tobacco, and lying without their Arms and in disorder on the Ground, and the Commanders were taking a view of the Fort from a neighboring Hill, two hundred _Negro_’s fell upon the scatter’d Army with great rage and fury, and so much the greater, in regard the _Portuguese_ had promis’d them great sums of Money for every _Hollander_ they kill’d: never any Army was in such a distraction, they being dispers’d and kill’d like so many Sheep, the Admiral _Veron_ and all the Officers slain, and in a short time four hundred and forty Men cut off; and had not Captain _Arend Jacobszoon_ been in League with the Inhabitants of _Commany_, whither the routed Regiments fled, not one Man had escap’d that bloody Slaughter: Nor was it to much purpose to Besiege the Castle _Del Mine_, because the Bullets hitting against the Walls of the Castle, built all of Rock-stones, did no Execution. But the four Ships inform’d of this miserable destruction, fell down to _Commany_, to fetch those that were left alive, and return’d home with the other eleven. During the unfortunate Expedition of this Fleet, the _West-India Company_ fitted out nine great Ships and five Ketches in the beginning of the Year 1626. under the Command of _Peter Peterszoon Hein_, to Cruise for the _Spanish_ Ships that were expected from _New Spain_ and _Honduras_. The _Fox_ Frigat being sent before to inform _Henrickszoon_ of _Heyn_’s coming, reach’d about the latter end of _May_ beyond the Isles _Dominico_, _Guadalupa_, _Mevis_, _St. Christophers_, and by _Santa Crux_; there not finding a Harbor on the South-side, because of the Rocks, she Sail’d from _Mona_ over to the Main Coast, where seven Leagues Westward of _Carakess_, he discover’d a high broken Land, whose Mountains seem’d to reach to the Clouds; from thence she steer’d to the Promontory _Caldera_, the Isles _Margareta_ and _Coche_, on which last he took abundance of Goats, not without the loss of forty six Men, kill’d by the _Spaniards_ and _Indians_. Mean while the Admiral _Peter Heyn_, in the beginning of _June_, Sail’d to the Southward of _Barbados_, an Island pretty mountainous, as hath been formerly mention’d, and full of Woods, and by _Martinino_, whose Hills are very high and overgrown with Trees. Here _Peter Heyn_ could get nothing else but sweet Water, and a Fruit resembling a green Grape, which grew on a round Leav’d Tree, whose Juice cur’d the Scurvey. Sailing from hence, and Landing on _Guadalupa_, he found a _Canoo_ seven Fathom long and one broad, and cut out of one Tree. The Inhabitants, a well timber’d People, went stark naked, and desir’d to be excus’d, that they could not furnish the _Hollanders_ with more Provisions, because the _French_ and _English_, Inhabitants of _St. Christophers_, had pillag’d them. [Sidenote: Success of the _Dutch_ against the _Portuguese_ Fleet.] Near _Mona_ the _Fox_ Frigat joyn’d with the Fleet, with information, that he could hear no tydings of _Henrickszoon_; wherefore _Peter Heyn_ judg’d it convenient to Sail along the South-Coast of _Hispaniola_ with a separated Fleet, which was to joyn again near the great _Caiman_. Near _Cape de Corientes_ the _Dutch_ took a _Spanish_ Ship laden with _Sarsaparilla_; after that another with Salt and Fish, and on the Shelves before _Coche_ before the Promontory _Antonio_, a Fly-boat with Tallow and Hides, and at the same places two Vessels more with Ballast, the Men whereof inform’d him, that the Fleet from _New Spain_ had about a Moneth before weigh’d Anchor from the Haven _Juan de Ulva_, and set Sail to _Havana_, so that without doubt they were arrived there; wherefore _Peter Heyn_ steer’d towards _Tortugos_, in hopes, if he could, to overtake some of the heavy Sailers. Before the Promontory _De Florida_ he discover’d seven Sail, and coming up nearer, above thirty, which, had _Henrickszoon_ been united with _Peter Heyn_, had without doubt fallen into the hands of the _Netherlanders_; but it being judg’d a madness to set upon so great a Fleet with so small a number of Ships, they Sail’d away undisturb’d. _Peter Heyn_ steer’d his Course along _Florida_, where he met three _Canoos_ with strange Men in them, who came aboard of him, their Bodies being naked, were painted with several colours, onely Mats of Rushes about their Middle, and on their Backs long Tassels hanging down: their Merchandise consisted of a sort of Gum of little value. The _Netherlanders_ in this Place took also a Vessel with _Sina_ Leaves, and some pounds of Ambergreece: but the Scurvey increasing daily amongst them, they Tack’d about, and ran to an Anchor at _Sierra Leona_, where they stay’d till the latter end of _January 1627._ and then set Sail to _Brasile_, and overtook a Vessel from _Madera_ laden with a hundred and fifty Pipes of Wine, and other rich Goods, and ran into the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_ with undaunted courage, not regarding the Guns that were fir’d from the Fort and Battlements of the City _St. Salvador_, near which lay thirty Sail of Ships, to which he making up, steer’d between the _Portuguese_ Admiral and Rere-Admiral, whom sinking, he forc’d the Admiral to surrender, whilest the _Hollandia_ and _Gelria_ Frigats fell upon the rest, which were forsaken by the Seamen, who leap’d over-board; then several Mann’d Boats of the _Hollanders_ (notwithstanding the Enemy’s continual firing) went and fetch’d off twenty two Sail of the _Portuguese_ Vessels; all which they did in three hours time, onely with the loss of fifty Men, besides some that were wounded, amongst whom was the Admiral, being shot with a Bullet through the Arm, and wounded in the Legs with a Splinter; his Ship also was, with the _Gelria_ Frigat, driven with the Spring-Tide on a Bank, whence, after the _Gelria_ had receiv’d above sixty Shot from the Enemy, they both got off at last; but the Admiral’s Frigat being shot in a manner to a Wreck, was set on fire, which Misfortune ended not there, for the _Orange-tree_ Frigat blew up, with sixty Men, fourteen whereof, though miserably scorch’d, had their Lives sav’d. Soon after which the Admiral sent into _Holland_ the Ship _St. Peter_, the _Hoop_, _Nostra Sennora de la Vittoria_, and the _Black-Lyon_, which besides their Lading of Hides, Silver, Gold, and Precious Stones, were most of them full of Sugar; which safely arriving, did not a little encourage the _West-India_ Company. After this _Heyn_ took two Ships with Slaves from _Angola_, which because the Governor of _St. Salvador_ would not redeem, were put ashore on _Taperica_. On the last of _March_ he set Sail from the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, pass’d by _Morro Pablo_, and on _Easter_ Eve with a strong Gale by the _Abrolhos_: before the Highland between _Cape Frio_ and the River _De Jenero_, he discover’d two Sail, one whereof being laden with Sugar was taken, but the other escap’d in the Night; then Sailing on to the meandring Stream _Spirito Sancto_, he digg’d Pits on some of the River-Isles to get fresh Water, because it was not safe to Land on the Continent on each side, because the Inhabitants shot frequent showers of Arrows from the Thickets, in which they lay ambuscaded. Moreover the Town _Spirito Sancto_ sent off several Fire-ships at the time of Flood, but they being easily quench’d did no harm. Here also a Vessel laden at _Lisbon_ with Wines and Piece-Goods, was taken by _Heyn_, who setting Sail again divided the Fleet into three Squadrons, the Vice-Admiral _Cornelis Oole_ keeping three Ships to Cruise withal before the River _La Plata_, _Henrick Best_ had one Frigat, a Ketch, and a Carvel, to guard the Mouth of the Stream _Jenero_, whilest the Admiral himself Sail’d with four Frigats, three Ketches, and a Barque, towards the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, where two Ships riding near the Shore by the Fort _Tapecipe_, were by him set on fire. Also taking a Barque he was inform’d, that six laden Vessels lay in the River _Tapecipe_, whither he sending some Boats to explore the truth, they found a great Ship without Men in the Mouth of the Stream, and half a League farther six _Portuguese_ Vessels lying near the Shore; bringing back news thereof to the Admiral, he went aboard of the _Fox_ Ketch the next Morning, and taking two Ketches and several Boats with him, Sail’d up the River, and perceiv’d that the fore-mention’d six Ships were gotten up higher, and were Mann’d with a hundred and fifty Soldiers, Commanded by Captain _Padilha_; the _Portuguese_ Admiral lying in Ambuscade, no sooner perceiv’d the _Netherlanders_ Boats, but he let flie a whole Volley of small Shot at them, insomuch that it made them Retreat, and their whole Design had been fruitless, had not _Heyn_ animated his Men to board the Vice-Admiral; which encouragement prov’d so successful that they master’d the same, killing all those that fell into their hands; which so amaz’d the two Vessels that lay by, that all the Men swam ashore, and left their rich Lading to the disposal of the _Hollanders_, besides which the vanquish’d Party lost above a hundred and fifty Men, and the Conquerors but fifteen. Somewhat farther up lay three Ships more, but the River being dry there at Low-water, and so narrow that the Trees on each Shore could touch one another, _Heyn_ judg’d it convenient to prosecute the Design no farther, but to return with the three fore-mention’d Prizes, which he did not without great difficulty; for the _Portuguese_ had rais’d Battlements on each side of the Mouth of the River _Tapecipe_, and stopt the same with a sunk Vessel, which _Heyn_ himself set on fire at Low-water, and return’d untouch’d through thick Volleys of Shot, which flew about his Ears to the Fleet, leaving the three Ships to be fetcht off afterwards; to which end he commanded that they should hang some of the taken Hides about the _Fox_ Ketch’s Pinnace, the Carvel and Boats, that so the Men which were in them might stand secure from the small Shot, and the rather, because the Ships could not be got out of the shallow and narrow River but by Toeing. Mean while the Governor of _St. Salvador_ lay with a considerable number of Citizens and Soldiers behind the fore-mention’d Battlements, not doubting but to take revenge for the Losses sustain’d by _Heyn_; who nevertheless coming down thither Toed out the three Prize-ships with Boats hung about with Hides, firing into the Enemies Battlements with his great Guns, which he had put aboard of the _Fox_ Ketch. About the middle of _June_ he took in the Prize-goods in view of the City _St. Salvador_, where seven _Netherland_ Ships from several places lay at an Anchor. Setting Sail from hence on the fourteenth of _July_, and reaching _Noronho_, known by a Mountain which appears like a Steeple, he met with _Cornelis Oole_’s Fleet, (who had been Cruising before _La Plata_) with whom he arriv’d safe in the _Texel_, having in their Way thither from _Noronho_ taken a Prize, laden with Sugar, Tobacco, and _Brasile_ Wood. [Sidenote: _Thomas Sickes_ his Expedition.] [Sidenote: _Henrick Lucifer_ set out by the _West-India_ Company.] During _Peter Heyn_’s Expedition _Thomas Sickes_, fitted out by the _West-India_ Company, weighed Anchor out of the _Texel_ with two Sail, and coming to _St. Vincent_ he found a _Spanish_ Vessel burnt down to the Hulk, took a _Portuguese_ Pink with Slaves from _Angola_: Near the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_ he sunk a Barque, having first taken several Pots of Oyl and Packs of Linnen out of the same: Before _Pernambuco_ he took a Carvel with a hundred and eighty Pipes of Wine, and a Vessel with Sugar and Hides, and drove another ashore against the Promontory _St. Augustine_. But _Sickes_ being supply’d and strengthned by three Ships from the _Texel_, and four taken Vessels, ran with four to _Todos los Sanctos_, sent two to Cruise about _Cape St. Augustine_, and two more to the North of _Pernambuco_; At the Isle _Noronho_ they were order’d to stay a Moneth one for another, from whence, after much hardship, they return’d home with so many rich Prizes, that they pay’d their Charges ten times double; which so encourag’d the Adventurers, that the Chamber of the _West-India_ Company in _Zealand_ fitted out three Sail under the Command of _Henrick Lucifer_, who weighing Anchor from _Flushing_ Anno 1627. steer’d along the Coast of _Africa_ to the _Amazone_ River, and from thence North North-West to the Stream _Wiapoco_, to settle a Colony there; to which purpose Rowing up the River with Sloops, they came in the Night to two empty Houses, built at a place call’d _Wacogenive_, which they judg’d fit for their purpose; wherefore they carry’d all things ashore which they had brought out of _Zealand_ with them for the new Planters, who while they were all busie building of Huts, a _Negro_ was taken Prisoner, who being ask’d why the Inhabitants fled? reply’d, That it was occasion’d from a guilty Conscience; for two years before a Barque and two Sloops with _Christians_ coming thither from the _Amazone_ River, had stay’d thirty days on _Wacogenive_, when unawares they were set upon by the Natives, and all kill’d except three, who were yet living. Upon which _Lucifer_, having four _Indians_, three Men and one Woman, aboard of his Vessel, threatned to put them all to the Sword, unless they would produce the three foremention’d _Christians_: Whereupon the next day a _German_ came to the Water side, of whom they could get little Information, he having in a manner forgot his native Tongue; but at length the other two coming thither, the eldest of them, nam’d _John Hendricszoon_, related to him, That the _Portuguese_ in great numbers fell upon the Plantations near the _Amazone_ River, Govern’d by Captain _Oudaen_, who after he had fought valiantly a whole day, being overpower’d by number, retreated to his Barque, and Sail’d into the Creek inhabited by the _English_, whither the _Portuguese_ following in _Canoos_, cut off not onely _Oudaen_, but the _English_ also, forty six Men onely escaping in a Barque under the Command of Lieutenant _Peter de Bruine_ to the River _Wiapoco_; where they had stay’d about three days, when Sergeant _Matruit_ treacherously shot Lieutenant _Bruine_: after which the forty six divided themselves into four Parties; but the Inhabitants to rid themselves of these Strangers, under the shew of great friendship, made them Drunk with the Liquor call’d _Pernau_, and then murder’d them all, except himself and two _Germans_. Which villanous act _Lucifer_ judg’d worthy of punishment; but his Orders being to shew Kindness and Civility to the Inhabitants, he suffer’d the Murder to go unpunish’d, but built a triangular Fort near the River _Wiapoco_, on a Hill eight Fathom above the Shore, to prevent the passing by of Sloops; which done, he went to visit the Island _Blanco_, where he caught three hundred Goats. From thence he went to the Bay of _Honda_, the Inhabitants whereof are a valiant People, tall of Stature, having long Beards, and wearing Copper Rings through their Ears. Near the Sea-side is a Salt-pan, of which the Inhabitants make great benefit. _Lucifer_ setting Sail again from hence, met with three Ketches sent out by the _West-India_ Company at _Amsterdam_, before _Corientes_. The Commander _Dirk Simonszoon van Uitgeest_, steering his Course towards the Promontory _St. Anton_, took a Frigat laden with Meal, Silk, and other rich Goods, and within view of _Cuba_ near the River _Poros_, descrying two brave Gallions from _Honduras_, bore up to them with his three Ketches; one of which, call’d _The Lyon_, being got betwixt both the Gallions, was in no small danger, the _Netherlanders_ not being able to get up out of their little Vessel into the high Gallions, in which the _Spaniards_ stood pushing them down with their Pikes; but no sooner did the _Netherlanders_ throw their Hand-Granado’s amongst them, but _Uitgeest_ got aboard of the Gallion, and carry’d her off, whilest the other by nimble Sailing got away. With this Prize _Uitgeest_ thinking himself sufficiently enrich’d, steer’d homewards. _Joost Johnson_ and _Claes Henrickszoon_, Commanding each of them a Ketch, took a Ship coming from _Lisbon_ before _Pernambuco_, laden with Meal, Salt, Wine, and thirty Monks; and not long after a Pink with six hundred _Negro_’s, a Barque with Salt and Iron, a Ketch with Wine, and a Frigat with _Brasile_ Wood, Sugar and Tobacco: Before _Itamerica_ they took two Prizes more; with all which they return’d to the _Texel_. [Sidenote: _Peter Adrianszoon_’s Expedition.] The _West-India_ Company thus enrich’d by the Spoil taken from their Enemies, fitted out twelve Ships again under the Command of _Peter Adrianszoon Ita_, which set Sail in the beginning of the Year 1628. and anchor’d first before _Blanca_, an Isle abounding with Goats, the Ground stonie, and in some places Rocky, and having a small, but very convenient Haven, from whence _Ita_ ran beyond _Porto Rico_, where he took a Vessel with seven thousand weight of Ginger, and Landed opposite to _Hispaniola_ on the stonie Isle _Catalina_, where he took in fresh Water, and then Cruis’d to and again before _Cuba_, took six Barques, the Prisoners whereof inform’d him, That the _Honduras_ Traders were on their Way coming thither, and that they had two small Men of War for their Convoy: Not long after _Ita_ discover’d them Sailing along the Shore towards the Haven of _Havana_, but before they could get in, Captain _John Peters_, whose Ketch carry’d two Brass, and fourteen Iron Guns, boarded the Vice-Admiral, but having no Graplings to take hold with, the _Spanish_ Ship ran aground, as likewise _John Peterszoon_ in the pursuit of him; which the Admiral seeing, came to assist his Vice-Admiral, and ran aground on one side of _John Peters_, which drove the _Netherlanders_ Ketch in great danger, she not being able to do Execution with her small Guns, whilest the _Spaniards_ with their Demy-Cannon play’d vehemently upon her; neither was _Ita_, by reason of calmness and contrary Tide, able to come up with them, but was forc’d to stand Northerly, that so he might get an Easterly Wind, which about Noon always blows fresh here, and so by degrees got near the _Spanish_ Fleet, till at last coming up with the Vice-Admiral, call’d _St. Jago_, he threw Fire-pots into her, and presently after boarding her, enter’d with that Valor, that of three hundred _Spaniards_ above a hundred and fifty were slain; for those that leapt over-board were kill’d in the Water, whilest _Joachim Guyszoon_, _John Braems_, and _Anthony Gonde_ fell upon the Admiral _Sennora de los Remedios_, and took her. In both these Ships _Ita_ took Two thousand five hundred Chests of Indigo, above Six thousand Hides, Two thousand five hundred Packs of _Sarsaparilla_, several Pots of Balsam Oyl, Seventy thousand Pound of Ginger, One and twenty Bars of Silver, Twelve Brass, and Twenty eight Iron Guns; all which having taken out, he set fire in both the Ships. A little before this Victory, the _Fortune_ Frigat weighed Anchor from _Flushing_, with sixty three Men of War, to be Landed on the Island _Tabago_. At _St. Vincent_ they found two Men that were left of seven, who having setled along the River _Wiapow_, under Captain _John Van Ryen_, were forc’d by the salvage Natives to remove, two whereof dyed by the way, the remaining five landing on the Isle _Trinidad_, had three of their Companions kill’d by the _Indians of Granada_, they being _French-men_, to whom the Natives bore an inveterate Hatred, so that they left onely the two _Hollanders_ alive. The _Fortune_ assisted by the _South-star_ Ketch, took a rich Barque near the _Isles des Virgines_. [Sidenote: _Vitgeest_’s Exploits.] Not long after the _West-India_ Company set out twelve Ships more, under the Command of _Derick Simonszon Uitgeest_, (who had the year before brought home the two fore-mention’d great Prizes,) who setting Sayl and getting into the large Bay of the Rocky Island _Vincent_, catch’d several Goats and Tortels. Before the Coast of _Brasile_ he took two rich _Carvels_, one from _Pernambuco_, and another from the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_; which Prizes having sent home with three Ketches, he sayl’d towards _Sierra Leona_, known by high and thick Woods, which grow on a high Coast; from whence returning again to _Pernambuco_, he took six rich laden Vessels, amongst which was one Gallioon from _Goa_, with a great Treasure of Diamonds. [Sidenote: _Peter Hein_’s Expedition.] [Sidenote: He gives chace to the _Spanish_ Plate-Fleet, & takes several of them.] These successful Expeditions of the Fleets set out from time to time by the _West-India_ Company, enabled and encourag’d them to undertake Matters of greater consequence, _viz._ They fitted out one and thirty Sail, which carryed four thousand Men, one hundred and thirty Brass Guns, and five hundred fifty eight Iron Guns; of which _Peter Peterszoon Hein_ being Admiral, took near the Soundings of _Tortuga_, two Barques from _Havana_, the Men whereof inform’d him, that the Plate-Fleet was not yet arriv’d there, nor that from _Terra Firma_, but were both expected every day. The strong Current drove _Peter Hein_ farther Eastward beyond _Havana_ than he expected, insomuch that he got sight of _Matanca_, where he overtook a Barque sent out by _Landronce de Cabrera_, Governor of _Havana_, to give notice to the Plate Fleet of the _Hollanders_ Ships, which he had seen from the Castle _Morro_ before _Havana_: Mean while _John Van Hoorn_ took a Vessel which was sent out before by the Plate Fleet, the Men whereof inform’d him that the Fleet it self was near at hand; which _Peter Hein_ found to be true, when the next Morning before Sun-rising he descry’d ten Sayl, of which some had ignorantly sayled to Leeward, and others to Windward of the _Dutch_ Fleet; nine of them which were Laden with Hides, Meal, Campeche-Wood, Cochinele, Indigo, and other rich Goods, were taken by several Mann’d Sloops, because the Ships were not able to come up to them by reason of the Calm. About Noon _Peter Hein_ discovering nine Gallions more, made sudden Chace after them; which they perceiving, made toward the Shore, and about Twilight in the Evening they ran aground in the Bay of _Matanca_, where the Commanders Landing saved themselves, each carrying with him what Jewels they could. About Break of Day _Peter Hein_ made all the Sayl he could possible to come up with them, and seeing them fast aground, leapt into a Boat and Rowed up to the Admiral, who fired eight Guns, whilest his Men got ashore: _Hein_ approaching the Gallioon, saw no way to get up, till at last one of his Men spying a Rope, climb’d up the same, and made fast other Ropes for his Companions to get up by, the _Spaniards_ standing still gaping upon him, as if their feet and hands had been ty’d, which made _Peter Hein_ grant them their Lives; which the other Gallions seeing, surrender’d themselves upon promise of Quarter; by which the _Spanish_ Crown lost, besides the Musk, Bezoar, Ambergreece, and the Cargo of two Gallioons and a rich Prize, above One hundred and fifty Tun of Gold. The Night succeeding this great Victory being somewhat Tempestuous, drove the Gallioons from the Bank on which they stuck the Day before, into deeper Water: Five Days they spent in unlading of the taken Vessels, after which _Peter Hein_ set Sayl with four Gallioons, a new _Spanish_ Merchant-Man, and his own Fleet, out of the Bay of _Matanca_, on the Seventh of September, _Anno 1628._ for _Holland_, where in a short time he safely arriv’d. [Sidenote: The Expedition of _Lucas Pol_.] The _Tyger_ Frigat sent from _Zealand_, and Commanded by _Lucas Pol_, Anchor’d before _Blanca_, where he brought away above five hundred Goats: This Island which is six Leagues in circumference, hath on the West a Sandy Inlet, fit for great Ships to Ride at Anchor; Moreover, it is deep and Rocky, in the Valleys the Grass grows above half a Mans length. The Woods are overgrown with Thorns; the Soyl also would produce much more fruit, did not the Rats, _Leguanes_, Hedge-hogs, and other Animals, devour and spoil the Plants. _Pol_ leaving this Island ran to _Tortuga_, a low Isle, except on the West side; it produces _Guaiacum_, or Pock-wood, in great abundance, and nourishes great Flocks of Goats, and hath an eminent Salt-Pan; in all which things it is parallel’d with the Island _Orchilla_, known by its high Mountains on the East and West; the other part thereof not being above six Foot above the Water: _Pol_ Landing here, carry’d off above two hundred Goats near the Western Shore, whose bryny Soil produces neither Grain, nor Grass. The Trees which are on the same are so dry and weak, that they may be pusht down with one hand; Neither are there any Birds to be found here, except Owls; nor Beasts, except Goats and great Hedge-hogs. _Pol_ sayling from hence, steer’d by the nine Wooddy Isles call’d _Roccas_, and the three call’d _Aves_, to _Bonaire_, a pretty large rising Isle, which on the North-West hath a convenient Road, a fresh Water-spring, store of Sheep, on which the _Spaniards_ live; Pock-wood, and Cotton Trees: Then steering to the Isle _Mona_, he found the same to be surrounded with Rocks, and full of Horned Cattel difficult to be catch’d because of the thick Woods, in which grow exceeding good Oranges. _Pol_ leaving this Isle, set sayl and steer’d for _Flushing_, where he safely arriv’d without having perform’d any remarkable Exploits. [Sidenote: _Adrian Pater_ his Expedition.] Mean while the _West-India_ Company fitted out twelve Sayl more, under the Command of _Adrian Johnzon Pater_, who set sayl in the middle of _August_, and Cruised in vain about the _Flemmish_ Isles for _Spanish_ Ships: About the beginning of the Year 1629. he sent away three Ships under the Command of _Martin Landrode_, from the Island of _St. Vincent_, whilest he himself ran with the rest of the Fleet into the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, within a League from the City _Salvador_, where there lay onely seven Barques near the Shore, which he judging not worth the while to hazard his Ships and Men for, steer’d to _Pernambuco_, took a rich Laden Barque in his Voyage, and was inform’d by a _Brasilian_ that came aboard of him on floating Pieces of Timber, that three Sayl of Ships full of Goods were return’d to _Reciffa_, so soon as they heard of the _Dutch_ Fleet: But _Pater_ judging no good to be done there, return’d back to the _Caribbee Islands_, where near _Granada_ he found three _Dutch_ Vessels, which had likewise Cruis’d in vain before the Coast of _Brasile_. Moreover, the _Pegasus_, _Raven_, and _Hart_ Frigats, parted from the Fleet to Cruise about _Monges_, touching at _Blanca_, they took above a thousand Goats, and between the Cliffs of the little Isles _Monges_, abundance of Fish; but descrying no _Spanish_ Ships, they Sail’d to the Island _De Vacca_, which hath a brave Harbor, delightful Woods, pleasant Pastures, fresh-water Brooks, and abundance of wild Horses, Hogs, and Lyons, of which the Sea-men took an infinite number. Before the low Promontory _Corientes_, overgrown with Trees, they got two Prizes laden with _Campeche_ Wood. These three fore-mention’d Frigats, as also the _Walcheren_ and _South-star_ from _Zealand_, joyn’d with _Pater_’s Fleet, when he receiv’d Information, that a considerable number of _Spanish_ Ships were suddenly expected from _Campeche_: Whereupon _Paters_ divided his Fleet into three Squadrons, whereof the Forlorn consisted of three Sail, the Reserve of the like number, and the Admiral kept five under his own Command: Thus divided, they stood to and again before _Cape Corientes_, when Captain _John Stapel_ brought three, and _John van Hoorn_ four _Netherland_ Ships to their assistance. [Sidenote: _Hoorn_’s Expedition.] _Hoorn_ having set Sail from the _Texel_ about the latter end of _April_, was beaten off from _Granada_ with poyson’d Arrows, and took a Prize before the Promontory _St. Anthony_, the Men whereof inform’d him, that the Governor _Gabriel de Chaves Osorio_, an old Soldier, had great trouble in repairing the Walls, Forts and Houses in the City, which two years before had been blown down by a great Storm, and that six great Ships were lading to go for _Carthagena_ with the Gallions for _Spain_, because they durst not Steer by _Porto Rico_ for fear of the _Netherlanders_; moreover, that abundance of Ginger was spoyl’d for want of Vessels to carry it away; and that the Citizens were in great want for Stuffs, none having come in a long time from _Spain_; in like manner there went none but Copper Coin, so that nothing was to be got there. The Silver and Gold Mines were not look’d after, the _Spaniards_ not caring to work, and the old Natives were long since cut off, insomuch that if the Imperial Court was not kept in _St. Domingo_, to which belong’d _Cumana_ and _Coro_, that City and Island, and _Hispaniola_ it self, would soon be left desolate. _Hoorn_ therefore Sail’d by the Promontory _St. Cruiz_, being a low Point overgrown with Trees, into the Bay, twenty Leagues from the Mouth whereof lie the Isles _Jardin de la Reyna_. Before _Corientes_ he took a Barque with three hundred and six Guns, sent from _Havana_, the Men whereof inform’d him, That the Governor of _Havana_, call’d _Laurence de Cabrera_, having Intelligence of the _Dutch_ Fleets approach, rais’d many Men, and gave notice to the Ships in all the Harbors thereabouts; after which he took another rich Prize, and joyn’d at last with _Paters_ Fleet, which now consisted of twenty Sail, with which he Steer’d for the Soundings of _Tortugas_, where the Fleet met with a dreadful Tempest, wherein a Thunderbolt splitting the Main-Yard of the _Hunter_ Frigat, fell down by the Mast, and rowl’d out at one of the Port-holes, kill’d the Purser, and wounded two more in the Head: great showers of Rain fell daily, when _Samuel Lucas_ and Captain _Outger Minne_ brought seven Sail of Ships more to the Fleet, with which _Paters_ put in for fresh Provisions into the spacious and secure Haven _De Cabannas_, where several Isles lie, formerly inhabited by Shepherds and Carpenters. From hence _Paters_ Sail’d by _Havana_, mended the Port-holes of his lower Deck, and took off the Top-gallant Masts, because in _September_ the usual Storms begin here; and seeing that he could not do any Exploit with so great a Fleet, he sent nine Ships home, and with the rest went to _Barbados_, where at that time there were about fifteen hundred _English_ that Planted Tobacco. _Paters_ Sailing from hence, ran to the Main Continent of _America_, inspected the River _Oronoque_, where he quenched the Town _St. Thomas_, that had been set on fire by the fled Inhabitants, and brought aboard all what they had left. [Sidenote: _Henrick Lonque_’s Expedition.] [Sidenote: Takes _Olinda_.] During his fruitless Expedition, the _West-India_ Company Rigg’d out twenty seven Sail under the Command of _Henrick Lonque_, _Peter Ita_, and _Joost Bankart_; the Land-Soldiers being Commanded by _Diederick Van Waerdenberg_. _Lonque_ coming to _St. Vincent_, stay’d a long time at Anchor there; for in regard the _Spaniard_ in the _Low Countreys_ rang’d on the _Veluwe_, and had taken _Amersfoort_, the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_ were forc’d to keep those Men in their Service which the _West-India_ Company had rais’d; but so soon as _Wesel_ was re-taken, and the _Hartogen-Bosch_ won by _Frederick Henrick_, Prince of _Orange_, thirty six Sail were sent to _Lonque_’s assistance; of which some came sooner to him than others at _St. Vincent_, where he had stay’d four Moneths without doing any remarkable Exploit. On _St. Steven_’s Day he set Sail with fifty two Ships, thirteen Sloops, and two Prizes, all Mann’d with seven thousand Men, which meeting with contrary Winds and Calms, lay a great while under the _Line_, the Scurvey began to encrease amongst them daily, insomuch that above twelve hundred lay sick, and three hundred dy’d since they set Sail from _St. Vincent_; yet at last _Lonque_ getting sight of _Olinda_, sent _Waerdenberg_ on the fourth of _February_ with sixteen Ships, carrying three thousand Men to _Pavo Morello_, a Wood, lying two Leagues Northward from _Olinda_, where he suddenly Landed, notwithstanding the _Portuguese_ guarded the Shore with two thousand Men, whom _Waerdenberg_, after a short Skirmish, putting to flight, was the whole Night in Arms, and the next day became Master of _Olinda_, by breaking in on the North at the same time, when Colonel _Schutte_ Storm’d on the South. Moreover, the Enemy surrendred the two Forts on _Reciffa_, and forsook the Island. About the middle of _March_ nine Ships which were wanting to make up _Lonque_’s Fleet, came to an Anchor by him, having brought him above six hundred Soldiers, many Guns, all manner of Ammunition under the Command of Lieutenant Colonel _Alexander Seton_, and the three Adjutants _John de Bruine_, _Philip Serooskerken_, and _Horatius Calandryn_, who immediately order’d the Cloyster on _Antonio Vaes_ to be fortifi’d, and built a Fort with four Bulwarks at the Entrance of _Pozo_ in the Countrey _Reciffa_. _Seton_ also set fire on the Suburbs of _Olinda_, in which the Enemy had Lodg’d the Night before, and endeavor’d to poyson the fresh Water on _Antonio Vaes_, when on a sudden the _Netherlanders_ fell upon them; two which drank of the Water dy’d, and others fell into great Fits of Sicknesses, and it wanted little but that the Admiral _Lonque_, with a Company of fifty Musquetteers, had been kill’d returning from _Reciffa_ to _Olinda_, he being unawares set upon by two Companies of _Portugueses_ and _Brasilians_, who kill’d above thirty six of his Men, and dangerously wounded six more, so that he brought off but eight Men unhurt. The like Misfortune befell the Wood-cutters on _Antonio Vaes_, surpris’d by the _Portuguese_ from an Ambuscade. Whilest Affairs stood thus about _Olinda_, there first arriv’d two Ships from the _United Netherlands_ at _Reciffa_, not long after four more, Commanded by _John Walbeek_, and eight more under the Admiral _Dirik Van Uitgeest_, who was follow’d by the _Noahs Ark_. About the same time _Dirk de Ruiter_ set Sail with six Ships, and _Peter Ita_ with ten, to Cruise at Sea. [Sidenote: _Ita_ being set upon by the Enemy, escapes very narrowly.] About the beginning of _February_, _Lonque_ having put all things in good order, prepar’d to return home, and weigh’d Anchor with nine Ships. But _Ita_ going from _Reciffa_ to _Olinda_, to take his leave of the Council there, was suddenly surpris’d after a strange manner; he had ninety Musquetteers for his Guard, whose Matches were all put out, and their Arms all wet by a great shower of Rain, which they perceiving from their Ambuscades, immediately got cross the River, and kill’d thirty of the _Netherlanders_, the rest running away, left _Ita_ to defend himself, which he did for some time with his Sword, but had absolutely been slain, had he not receiv’d Aid from _Olinda_. Because the _Portuguese_ made several Attempts upon the _Netherlanders_, not without damage on both sides, the _West-India_ Company often sent Ships to their assistance; and likewise many _Brasilians_ deserting the _Portuguese_, joyn’d with the _Netherlanders_, who built a five-corner’d Fort with Bulwarks about the Cloyster on _Antonio Vaes_; which to prevent, the _Portuguese_ ventur’d many a Sally, though not without considerable loss on their part. They also reported, that _Frederick de Toledo_ was making thither with a great Fleet, to drive the _Netherlanders_ out of _Brasile_; at which they taking the Alarm, put themselves all into a posture of Defence, rais’d new Works about the Castle on _Reciffa_, whilest the Ships which Cruis’d on that Coast brought in several Prizes. _John Walbeek_ being chosen General by the _West-India_ Company over _Brasile_, had a Design on the Promontory _St. Augustine_; but it came to no effect, because the Sea beat so vehemently against the Shore. [Sidenote: Great Supplies sent to _Brasile_ by the _Netherland West-India_ Company.] The Report of the great preparation of a Fleet which was making ready in _Spain_, mov’d the _West-India_ Company to raise more Men, and to send out Admiral _Paters_ with seventeen Ships, which all arriv’d safe, except the _Black Lyon_ Frigat, which carrying the Lieutenant-Colonel _Eltz_ and Captain _Uitgeest_, was never heard of. _Joost Bankart_ was also sent out in _March_ with eight Ships to _St. Helena_, to Cruise there for the rich _Carraks_ which us’d to Water there; but though he stay’d till _August_ before this fruitful Island, yet saw not one Ship at Sea, nor a Man on the Island, but great numbers of Sea-pies, which are so tame, that they suffer themselves to be taken up with the Hand, or knock’d on the Head with Sticks. Near this Isle _Ita_ took a Ketch Prize, and rallying his whole Fleet together, Steer’d for the _Caimans_; the most Eastern Isle whereof being about three Leagues long, is full of Rocks, with a high Point on the East; the other part thereof is plain. Then dividing his Fleet into seven Squadrons, he made them all ready for an Engagement, when he was inform’d by an _English_-man before _Corientes_, that _Frederick de Toledo_ had set Sail with eighty Ships from _Havana_ to _Spain_, of which he had sent back eight Gallions to _Carthagena_: Hereupon bending his Course near _Havana_, he put the whole Countrey to an Alarm, burnt a rich laden Vessel, and another that carry’d a Flag on the Fore-top, and a third laden with Ballast. _Joachim Guysen_ being made Commander of the _Dolphin_ Frigat, and sent to joyn with Admiral _Pater_’s Squadron, was driven below _Jamaica_, and at last strook against the great _Caiman_, where his Vessel was all shatter’d to pieces; but all his Men and Goods being sav’d, he spent sixteen Weeks in making a Ketch of the pieces of the _Dolphin_, and brought a hundred and twenty Men, four Brass, and two Iron Guns to the Fleet, having buried the rest on _Caiman_. Five Leagues beyond _Havana_, a _Spanish_ Ship laden with _Campeche_ Wood and _Sarsaparilla_, being chased against the Shore, was set on fire by her own Men, which the _Hollanders_ attempted twice in vain to put out. After this _Ita_’s Fleet lay long upon the Coast of _Cuba_, but finding no _Spanish_ Vessels, and their Provisions growing scarce, return’d back to the _Texel_, where they arriv’d without doing any farther Exploits. [Sidenote: _St. Martha_ taken by the _Dutch_.] In the mean while _Pater_ lying before _Punta del Gallo_, intending to Invade the City built on the Shore of the Island _Trinidad_; but the Fort built at the Mouth of the River, and contrary Current preventing his Design, he ran through the middlemost Hole of _Boccas_ to _Blanca_, where he caught two thousand Goats and a _Bonaire_, set several Towns on fire, whilest the _Spaniards_ made a Smother of dry Stubble all along the Fields, through which the _Hollanders_ were to return, that so they might be choak’d with the Smoak; which their Invention had prov’d successful, had not the _Hollanders_ forc’d a Way through a Wood. At last the Fleet leaving _Hispaniola_, Steer’d for _St. Martha_, a Town built on the Main Coast between _Carthagena_, and the River _La Hacha_, being instigated thereto by a Letter (taken by the _Hollanders_ in a Prize) writ by the Governor _Hieronymo de Quero_ to the _Spanish_ King; which Letter set forth the present Condition of _St. Martha_, whereby they conceiv’d great hopes of a possibility of taking it, and of the Advantages that would accrue thereby: nor did it happen contrary to their expectation; for the Admiral Landing his Men, took the City without the least resistance; and though the great Fort fir’d some Guns, yet it soon surrendred on promise of Quarter; the City also was sav’d from being burn’d, by paying fifty five hundred Pieces of Eight, after they had plunder’d the same, and carry’d away whatsoe’re they thought good. Mean while the Provisions growing scarce in the Fleet, _Pater_ judg’d it convenient to return home, where he arriv’d safely with all his Prizes. [Sidenote: The valiant Exploit of _John Lichthart_.] Notable Exploits were perform’d by _John Lichthart_, one of which, amongst others ought not to be omitted, _viz._ he setting Sail homewards from _Reciffa_ about the beginning of _October_ _Anno 1630._ chanc’d to fall with his Ship, the _Over-yzel_, amongst five _Biscayan_ Pyrats, Cruising between the _French_ and _English_ Coast, which thought to clap him aboard on a sudden; but they seeing him bear up to them, were afraid to venture, and Tack’d about: after which he was set upon about three Leagues to the Northward of the _Lizard_, by three Frigats belonging to _Dunkirk_, the biggest whereof carry’d thirty six Guns, the second twenty eight, and the last twelve; with which three he maintain’d a Fight eight hours, in which he had fourteen Men kill’d, and thirty two wounded; his Ship resembled a Wreck, the Main-mast being shot overboard, the Rudder hung by pieces at the Stern, and the Tackling all shatter’d and torn, besides seven Shot under Water, and not less than four hundred through the sides above, but not without sufficient marks of retribution on the _Dunkirkers_ side; but _Lichthart_ getting into _Plymouth_, mended his Ship, and from thence Sail’d to _Amsterdam_, where he was Presented with a Gold Chain in recompence of his Valor. [Sidenote: The Expedition of the _Brown-Fish_ Frigat.] The Expedition of the _Brown-Fish_ Frigat is also remarkable, which Sailing beyond _Cape de Verd_, Steer’d by _Cape Roxo_ along the Shore to the River _Catchieu_, at whose Mouth lie two Shelves, and between them ran a Channel through which the Ships pass’d. The _Brown-Fish_ Sailing about a League up the River, which is a Mile in breadth, took a _Portuguese_ Barque. The Seamen also Landing on the Isle _Bissis_, spake _Portuguese_ with the Natives, who are Coal-black, and have strong Bodies, go Arm’d with Darts, Bowes, Arrows, Symiters, and were Baptiz’d by a Priest sent thither from _Portugal_, who with a few Countrey-men had built a Chappel and some Houses there. From hence the _Brown-Fish_ Sail’d to the most Northern Isle _Bisegos_, which is continually at Wars with _Bissis_. The King of this Isle receiving some Presents from the _Netherlanders_, gave leave to his Subjects, shie at first, to go aboard of them. Steering from hence to _Noronho_, they found the Inhabitants carry’d away, and their Gardens and Houses ruin’d, so that they could get nothing but wild Pumpions to refresh themselves with; therefore leaving the Isle they anchor’d at _Reciffa_. In the interim, whilest these Expeditions were carry’d on as hath been related, Captain _John Boon-eter_ (who parted from the Admiral _Ita_’s Fleet with eight Sail of Ships) Cruis’d to and again before _Hispaniola_ till _May_ Anno 1631. near _Mona_ he took a rich Vessel coming from _Porto Rico_, another before the Island _Vacca_, and a third full of Ginger, with which he Steer’d to the _Tortugas_, being seven in number, resembling rather sandy Flats than Isles. Before _Havana_ he also chased several Vessels, but lost sight of them in the Night. Mean while their Provisions growing short, the Seamen were desirous to return; which _Boon-eter_ would no way yield to, because the time began to approach in which the _Spanish_ Ships came from all places to _Havana_; but the Men mutinying forc’d him to Steer to the _Texel_, where they arriv’d without doing any considerable Exploit advantageous to the _West-India_ Company. [Sidenote: The Fort of _Tamarica_ assault’d by the _Dutch_ in vain.] But at the same time fourteen Ships, three Sloops, and seven great Pinnaces, weighed Anchor from _Reciffa_ with a thousand two hundred and sixty Men, divided into twelve Companies, under the Command of _Hartman Godefrid_ and _Stein Callenfels_; who Landing on the Island _Tamarica_, march’d along a bad and narrow Path, partly craggy and partly sandy, to a Fort built on a high Ascent overgrown with Brambles in such a manner, that it was impossible for them to break through, whilest they in the Fort fir’d continually upon _Stein Callenfels_, who judg’d it convenient to draw off, and Storm the Castle on another side. The Admiral _Pater_ newly come from the _Texel_ to _Olinda_, sent three Ketches, a Sloop, and two Pinnaces, beyond the Town _Tamarica_, to prevent the Enemies crossing over to the Main, and keep off their Fire-ships. They also receiv’d Information from three _Portuguese_ and five _Brasilian_ Prisoners, That the Castle, surrounded with Fens and Brambles, had sixteen Guns; and that _Albuquerque_ had sent eight hundred Men to assist the three hundred that lay in Garrison there before. The Captains _Le Grand_ and _Arcisseusky_ found two other Ways that led to the Fort, but altogether unfit to march along with their Men and Guns. _Pater_ also Row’d round the Island with Sloops, and fathom’d the Water, whilest _Arcisseusky_ Sailing up the River to _Garasi_, suppos’d that he had found a much better place to make an Onset on the Castle in, than had been found out yet; but the Council of _Olinda_ and _Stein Callenfels_ look’d upon it as too great a hazard to Storm a Fort, to which the Ways lay so much to the Enemy’s advantage, a small number in the same being able to beat off a considerable Party; therefore it was judg’d best, and concluded upon, to build a Fort on a little Isle near _Tamarica_, at the Mouth of the River; to which purpose the Engineer _Buuren_ contriv’d a square Castle with a long Horn-work, which was call’d _Orange_; in which the Captains _Arcisseusky_, _Mellingen_, and _Beyer_, were left in Garrison with their Companies, whilest the rest of the Regiment return’d to _Reciffa_. Mean while _Antonio de Oquendo_ brought a great Fleet to _St. Salvador_; and _Callenfels_ drew four Companies of Musquetteers, and a great company of Seamen with Pick-axes and Spades out of the Fort _Frederick Henrick_ into the Field, and marching Southward along private Ways, he found the River strongly fortifi’d near the Forts _Affogados_, having above and below a row of strong Pallisado’s; yet the _Portuguese_ that guarded these Works after a small resistance fled, and left all: But because a general Alarm drew many People in Arms out of _Real_, and several other places, _Callenfels_ drew off in good order, and was inform’d by a Prisoner call’d _Peter Alves_, that the Fort _Affogados_ receiv’d that Denomination from the River on which it was built; that there lay generally a hundred and fifty Men in Garrison there; that about a Mile farther was the Fort _Pirange_. that _Peter de Acunha_ bore the chief Command next to _Albuquerque_ over the _Militia_, who us’d few Musquets but what had Fire-locks; and that they wanted no Ammunition, for six great Carvels loaden with the same had not long since stor’d them with great plenty thereof. The _Netherlanders_ also understanding by Letters which they had taken, that the _Tapuyans_ were very much incens’d against the _Portuguese_, who stood in great fear of these salvage People, it was judg’d convenient by the Council at _Olinda_, to invite the _Tapuyans_ to be their Friends. [Sidenote: Fight between the _Dutch_ and _Spanish_ Fleet.] [Sidenote: Admiral _Pater_ drown’d.] On the eleventh of _September_ Anno 1631. Admiral _Pater_ and Vice-Admiral _Martin Thyszoon_, whose joint Forces were fifteen Men of War and three Ketches, carrying nine Companies of Foot, Commanded by Captain _Engelbert Schutte_, descrying the _Spanish_ Fleet about an hour before Sun-set, animated all the Officers and Captains to regard their Honor and Oath which they had taken; telling them, That on this Engagement would depend the Welfare or Ruine of the _West-India_ Company. But his Men were not so much heartned by his Speech, as daunted at the sight of the _Spanish_ Fleet, which consisted of twelve _Castilian_ and five _Portuguese_ Gallions, and twenty six other Vessels, as Pinks, Fly-boats and Carvels, all well Mann’d and full of Guns, the Gallions carrying whole and Demi-Cannons; the Admiral, call’d _Antonio de Oquendo_, carrying forty eight great Guns in his Gallion, call’d _St. Jago_; whereas they had receiv’d Information but of four Gallions and eighteen lesser Vessels; nevertheless _Pater_ no whit discourag’d, boarded him about ten a Clock the next Morning, whilest Captain _John Mast_ boarded him on the other side, which occasion’d a bloody Engagement; and it would have prov’d fatal to the _Spaniard_, had not _Pater_’s Stern taken fire, which he endeavoring in vain to put out, and none coming to his assistance, after he had hung a good while by a Rope at the _Spanish_ Admiral’s Bowe, he was forc’d through faintness to let go and fall into the Water, whilest his Ship was blown up, a few of his Men onely being sav’d by _Oquendo_. In the mean time _Martin Thyszoon_ boarded the Gallion _Antonio de Padua_, Commanded by the Vice-Admiral _Francisco de Vallezilla_ on one side, and the _Utrecht_ Frigat on the other, which after half an hours Engagement lost her Main-mast, and after a sharp Fight of four hours the Fire took hold of her Sails; which the _Netherlanders_ not being able to quench, leap’d desperately over into the _Spanish_ Vice-Admiral; but he having two hundred and sixty Men aboard, beat them off, forcing them to leap into the Water, or sell their Lives at a dear rate. But Captain _Thyszoon_ had better success, for he not onely sunk the Vice-Admiral, but took the _Bonaventura_ Gallion, and likewise gave the Gallion _John Baptista_ so many shot under Water, that she sunk likewise. The Night approaching ended this bloody Engagement; and the _Netherlanders_ Fleet much damnifi’d stood Northwards, with intention to return to _Reciffa_. The next Morning _Oquendo_ had lost sight of them, but descry’d them again on the fifteenth of _September_, and kept in view of them the six following days, five Leagues from him to the East, or East South-East, _Martin Thyszoon_ coming to an Anchor before _Reciffa_ on the twenty second of _September_. About the same time the _Amsterdam_ Frigat set Sail from thence for _St. Salvador_, with intention to joyn with _Pater_’s Fleet there, but not finding the Admiral, return’d, and near _Cape St. Augustine_ discover’d the _Spanish_ Fleet; wherefore running close behind them she receiv’d four Guns from _Oquendo_, which she answer’d, and kept at a distance from them the whole Night, in hopes to meet with one single Vessel or other belonging to the Fleet; but the _Spanish_ Vice-Admiral bearing little Sail, guarded the Rere, and fir’d continually at the _Amsterdam_ Frigat, who fearing an unlucky Bullet, made all the Sail she could possible, and brought news of the approach of the _Spanish_ Fleet to _Reciffa_. Soon after which the _Elephant_ came from the _Dutch_ Fleet thither, with a full Account of the fore-mention’d Engagement, _viz._ That besides the Admiral _Pater_, there were slain Captain _Thomas Sickes_, _Cormillion_, and Lieutenant _Steenbergen_, also that two Ships, the _Prince William_ and the _Province of Utrecht_, were sunk: In lieu of which they had taken the Gallion call’d _The Bonaventura_, with twenty six Brass Guns, weighing above sixty four thousand Pound, two hundred and forty _Castilians_, and a great parcel of Sugar and Tobacco; Amongst the Prisoners was one call’d _Francisco de Fuentes_, who being Examin’d, gave this Information, _viz._ That the Fleet carry’d two Regiments of _Spaniards_ and one of _Italians_; in which three Regiments were four thousand Men, under the Command of _Conde del Bangniola_; and that upon the setting out of _Ferdinand_, the King’s Brother, to the _Netherlands_, all the chiefest Gallions and _Dunkirk_ Ships were sent for, and _English_ Vessels hir’d, to convey him safe to the _Flemmish_ Coast, which made _Oquenda_ set Sail with so much the lesser number to _St. Salvador_; that the sunk Gallion, call’d _Antonio de Padua_, had fourteen Brass Guns in her Hold, besides twenty six that were mounted. [Sidenote: Two _Tapuyan_ Kings offer their Service to the _Hollanders_.] Soon after a _Brasilian_ that had pass’d by _Albuquerque_’s Army to _Olinda_, brought Information, That he was sent by _Jandui_ and _Oquenou_, two Kings belonging to the _Tapuyans_, to enquire if the _Topatingas_ (for so they call’d the _Netherlanders_ that belong’d to the _West-India_ Company) did yet reside in _Pernambuco_, with Proffers to assist them with their Forces. Moreover, he inform’d them, That since his departure from _Boudewyn Henrickszoon_, a great many of the _Tapuyans Petivares_ were kill’d by the _Portuguese_ near the River _Grande_ and Inlet _Trajiciaon_, because they had assisted _Henrickszoon_, who had left them helpless at his departure. He added also, That if the _West-India_ Company would give the other _Brasilians_ any assurance to assist the _Tapuyans_, it would be necessary to Consult about it near the River _Grande_. This Proposal was found to be of so weighty a Concern, that _Ellert Smient_ being sent with the Ship call’d _The New Netherland_, and a great Sloop, to _Siara_, to make farther enquiry into the Business, was accompanied by a Renegado _Portuguese_ call’d _Samuel Cochin_, and several _Brasilians_ (whom _Henrickszoon_ upon their Request carry’d with him from the Inlet _Trajiciaon_ to _Holland_) who went, under pretence of visiting their Relations at the River _Grande_ and _Siara_, to invite their Countrey-men to joyn with the _Netherlanders_. [Sidenote: _Olinda_ deserted and demolish’d by the _Hollanders_.] During _Smient_’s absence many Consultations were held about the demolishing or defending of the City _Olinda_, about which there had formerly been many Contests; but at last the Voices carry’d it, which were for the demolishing thereof, in regard it was of little Consequence; and could not be kept without many Men and great Charges, because of its bad Situation, whenas their Men might do greater Service in other places: Wherefore they began to carry all things necessary from _Olinda_ to _Reciffa_, and on the twenty fourth of _November_ the City was set on fire with Barrels of Pitch and Tar, being in a light flame at every corner, whilest _Stein Callenfels_ drew off the Garrison in good order to _Reciffa_; and immediately sixteen hundred Men under his Command were put aboard of sixteen Vessels, with intention to go to _Parayba_; but the Enemy having a fortnight before had notice of this Design, had fortifi’d himself all along the River. _Callenfels_ approaching, espy’d twelve _Portuguese_ Standards, and the Men ready on the Breast-works to prevent his Landing; yet nevertheless he not regarding their Bullets, press’d in amongst them, and forc’d the Enemy from his Works. Near the Water stood a Stone Castle, and on one side of it a large Store-house; on the Mountain near the City appear’d the _Franciscan_ Cloyster; the Fort rais’d of Earth had four Bulwarks, and twenty six Guns, according to the Information of the Eye-witnesses _Drevis_ and _Berster_, who were sent thither as Spies. [Sidenote: _Callenfels_ attempts to take the City, but without success.] _Callenfels_ Landed not so carefully but that he lost forty Men, either kill’d from behind the Breastworks, or out of a neighboring Wood. Being inform’d by a _Portuguese_ Prisoner, of the ill Condition of the Town, and how slenderly it was provided, he immediately rais’d a Sconce, two Watch-houses, and a Pallisado, from which he fir’d with two Guns on the Castle, and made several Trenches; but the Besieged were stronger in People and Guns than the Besiegers, who being scarce able, by reason of their small number, to keep Guards in all places, were also tir’d out under a hot Climate, and fainted for want of Provisions, insomuch that in two days there dy’d and fell sick above two hundred; wherefore _Callenfels_ judg’d it best to draw off in time; which that they might do securely, they made a Redoubt, and the six Companies Commanded by the Captains _Redincheven_, _Meppelen_, _Cloppenburg_, _Schenk_, _Byma_, and _Cook_, resolv’d upon a desperate Attempt, as followeth: Marching privately through a Wood behind the Enemy’s Works, they fell in at one side upon the _Portuguese_ Trenches, from whence they drove them after a small resistance, and forc’d them to flie towards the Fort, whither they were pursu’d with such eagerness, that those who were in the Fort, lest the _Hollanders_ might get in with them, lock’d up the Avenues against their own Men; at which they were so amaz’d, that some of them climb’d up by the Walls of the Fort, but were either kill’d by the Assailants, or knock’d on the Head by their own People, because several _Hollanders_ went to climb up amongst the _Portuguese_; the rest running about the Fort, fell into the midst of the _Netherlanders_, where they were all cut off, being in number above a hundred. The _Hollanders_ also in this resolute Design, had about twenty Men kill’d, and fifty wounded; after which they put lighted Matches on Sticks in their Enemy’s Works, as if they had never made any Attempt on the City _Parayba_. Whilest this Expedition fell out so unfortunately, _Smient_ performing his Voyage, found in the Inlet _Trajiciaon_ a _Portuguese_ Vessel hal’d near the Shore under the protection of two Pallisado’s; wherefore supposing it best not to make any Attempt on the same, he ran to an Anchor before _Ubranduba_, twenty Leagues below the River _Grande_; where the Natives _Marcial_, _Tacou_, _Ararova_, and _Matauwe_, who had been in _Holland_, Landing, went to see, and speak with their Countrey-men to joyn with the _Netherland West-India_ Company: and some days after the Seamen Landing again in the same place, met with _Tacou_, together with eight more stout Men, and seventeen Women and Children, who carry’d a slain _Portuguese_ call’d _Juan Perera_, to the River _Grande_, about whom they had found Letters containing the whole Condition of _Siara_; which the _Brasilians_ imparting to _Smient_, he sent a Ketch thither before, and follow’d after himself; they Steer’d along the Shore beyond the Shelves _Guamare_, by the Mountains _Sailinas_ and _Porto de Mel_, the Haven _De Onces_, and River _Juaguarive_, to the _White Point_, where the _Brasilians_ Landing spake with their People, and towards the Evening brought good tydings, and desir’d that they might be Landed at _Siara_, where they would put their Design in practice: _Smient_ following their Advice, receiv’d them aboard the _New Netherland_, and Sail’d along by the square Fort _Siara_ towards a smooth Shore on each side, hedg’d in by thick Woods, where the _Brasilians_ intended to Land; but the _Portuguese_, and _Brasilians_ belonging to their Party, being gotten into the Wood before, fir’d so vehemently, that they were forc’d to Retreat, and Sail five Leagues farther beyond the Cape _Opese_, made dangerous by the many blind Cliffs that lie about the same. _Smient_ anchoring here, Landed the _Brasilians_, on promise that they would return in two days; but the Seamen seeing sometimes ten, sometimes fifteen Arm’d _Portugueses_ ashore, judg’d that the _Brasilians_ had been slain by them, and therefore weighed Anchor to the great dislike of the _West-India_ Company. Since this unsuccessful Design on _Parayba_, the Council at _Reciffa_ were no whit discourag’d, but resolv’d to make an Attempt on the River _Grande_ with twelve Ships and two Sloops, carrying ten Companies of Soldiers, besides Seamen; but by reason of the difficulty of Landing (because the Coast being very Rocky, makes the Sea go very hollow), the strength of the Place, both in respect of its Fortification and number of Defendants, and the joyning of the _Brasilians_ with them, they were forc’d to return without effecting their Design. [Sidenote: The Expedition of _Nekker_, _Houte-been_, and others.] [Sidenote: The Marquess _Salinas_ murther’d for his Jewels.] About the same time eight Sail arriv’d at _Reciffa_ from _Holland_, and _Jonathan de Nekker_, _Cornelis Corneliszoon_, alias _Houte-been_, and _Reinier Peterszoon_, set out with three Frigats from the _Texel_ to the Isle _Vacca_, where with Hunting, Fishing, and gathering of Fruit, they refresh’d themselves, and afterwards Steer’d to the River _Magdalena_, discernable at three Leagues distance by the thick yellow Water it discharges into the Sea through three Mouths. Between the Western and middlemost Mouth lies an Isle in the middle of the River, behind which _Houte-been_ came to an Anchor, whilest _Nekker_ and _Peterszoon_ kept Guard near _Punto Verde_; where though the Wind blew very fresh in the Night, yet the Water remain’d smooth: About Day-break _Nekker_ discovering a Sail, made chase after the same, but not able to come up with her, lost her the following Night, and in the Morning saw a Barque, which running ashore was set on fire by _Peterszoon_; after which _Nekker_ chased two other Ships, which likewise getting from him, he stood off at Sea out of sight of the Isles _Zamba_, which are low on the West, and Hilly at the East-end, where the Sea beats vehemently against a Promontory, and chased a Barque ashore, whither he sent a Boat with eight Men; which being beaten to pieces by the Waves, drowned four of them, and the rest getting ashore were kill’d by the _Spaniards_. Soon after which four _Spanish_ Ships set Sail after _Nekker_ and _Peterszoon_, and had not the Night favor’d them they had been but in a bad Condition; for they were not able to get their Sea-men aboard, who having taken some Wine ashore, had made themselves Drunk; about Day-break they descry’d the four _Spanish_ Vessels, which were gotten so far from them, that they could but just discern them from the Main-top. Not long after they took two Barques, and came to an Anchor behind _Zamba_ by _Houte-been_, who being driven by a Storm out of the River _Magdalena_ to _Jamaica_, had chased a Barque ashore there, and a Ship with four hundred _Negro_’s against _St. Martha_, and since took a rich laden Barque near the River _Magdalena_. In like manner _Nekker_ and _Peterszoon_ took a Ship coming from _Caraques_, leaving _Houte-been_ alone before _Magdalena_, who not long after discover’d eighteen _Spanish_ Ships near the High-land _St. Martha_, which were Steering to _Carthagena_; one whereof belonging to _Carthagena_ he made Prize of, but was forc’d to forsake her in a great Storm; after the ceasing of which he took another Frigat, the Men whereof inform’d him, That the Admiral _Thomas de Caspure_ was going with eleven Ships from _Cape Antonio_ to _Porto Belo_, to lade the _Peruvian_ Silver there. The Ship with _Angolan Negro_’s, taken by _Houte-been_, he set free, but kept a Frigat laden with Tallow, Hides, Tobacco, and Flesh, which he had taken just before the Coast of _Rio Grande_; and thus he went Privateering up and down, when the Plate-Fleet from _New Spain_ weighed Anchor from _Juan de Lua_, the like of which in Riches had never set Sail before, for it carry’d 2169340 _Ryals_ of _Eight_ for the Merchants, an unvaluable Treasure for the King, besides many rich Commodities which several bought upon their own Accounts, that were not entred in the Custom-house: all which Treasure, laden in nine Gallions, besides a considerable number of Frigats and small Vessels, was committed to the Charge of _Miguel de Echacareta_; but he dying before the Fleet set Sail, _Manuel Serano de Ribera_ was chosen Admiral; but a dreadful Storm arising as they were Sailing before the Coast of _Campeche_ in their Way to _Havana_, the whole Fleet was in a manner utterly destroy’d, with a most unvaluable Treasure: The Admiral, Vice-Admiral, Gallion _Teresia_, and several other Gallions, sunk, with at least two thousand Men, a great number of Persons of Quality, and amongst the rest the Marquess _Salinas_, who was most treacherously slain by thirty Persons, who made themselves Masters of a Sloop, into which he went for safety out of the sinking Admiral _Juseppe_: That which instigated them to this horrid Act, was the sight of a small Trunk of Jewels which he carry’d into the Sloop: Not long after falling out amongst themselves about dividing the Spoil, several of them were discover’d, apprehended, and put to death. This Fleet weighed Anchor the day after their Admiral _Miguel de Echacareta_ was buried, who dy’d so suddenly that he could make no Will. A few days after the departure of the Fleet, a hundred and seventy Houses were burnt at _Juan de Lua_. It appears that the _Spaniards_ out of fear of the _Netherlanders_, set Sail on the tenth of _October_, notwithstanding it was at an inconvenient time, because about that Season the Hurricanes rage most terribly in the Bay of _Vera Crux_. By a Letter from the Treasurer _Franciscus Suarez_ it appears, that the two Regiments in the City _St. Salvador_, the one Commanded by _Christopher Mexia Bocanegra_, consisting of nine Companies, each of sixty Men, and the other Commanded by _Vasco de Mascarennas_, consisting of thirteen Companies, cost the King of _Spain_ yearly 21515 _l._ to maintain them. [Sidenote: _Walbeck_’s Exploits.] The _Netherland_ Council at _Reciffa_ no way discourag’d by their successless Attempts made the last Year on _Rio Grande_, sent thirteen Companies of Soldiers aboard of seventeen Vessels, to build a Fort at the River _Formosa_, where the _Portuguese_ being too weak to resist them, set fire on a Store-house with three hundred Chests of Sugar, and fled: _Walbeck_ was Commander in Chief in this Design, who Landing on _Formosa_ found no fit place to build a Fort in, because the Shore, not being above a Musquet-shot broad, was inclos’d with Woods, behind which lay high Mountains that Commanded the Shore; therefore marching to _Serinhain_ he burnt several Houses and a new Sugar-Mill, near which in a Store-house he took twelve hundred Chests of Sugar, which for want of Carts he could not carry to his Ships. Also before _Porto Calvo_ he burnt a Carvel, and took a great number of Cattel on _Camarigibi_, and return’d without any farther Exploits to _Reciffa_, where the Cruisers had brought in several Prizes during his absence. The Council resolving not to sit idle, set out another Fleet of eighteen Ships under the Command of _Martin Thyszoon_, with a Regiment of fourteen Companies under _Stein Callenfels_. [Sidenote: The Expedition of _Martin Thyszoon_ and _Stein Callenfels_.] This Fleet approaching _Cape Augustin_, they found a ridge of Rocks along the Shore, against which the Sea beat with great vehemency; at length they came before a small Inlet, at whose Mouth lay a small Fort from which the Enemy fir’d upon the Mann’d Boats which Row’d by the same: at some distance they discern’d two Breastworks, one rais’d above the other near the Shore; on which when the _Hollanders_ thought to Land, three hundred _Portugueses_ fir’d at once upon them; and on a Hill not far from thence appear’d more Men, which amaz’d the Council of War, for the Inlet was so narrow, that not above six Boats could Land at once; and it was evident, that though the Enemy should chance to be beaten from behind his Breastworks, yet the _Hollanders_ would lie expos’d to the Enemy’s Guns from the Fort _Nazareth_ built on the Mountain; besides, _Nazareth_, if gain’d, could scarce be defended, unless the whole Mountain were Intrench’d round, which would not onely be very chargeable, but also impossible, because of the red Earth, altogether unfit for Fortifications; and the barren Mountain afforded neither Wood, nor any thing else; besides, the Storming of it would be very dangerous: The Entrance into the Haven was difficult, because a stonie Bank before the same suffer’d no Passage but betwixt small Openings; the chiefest whereof was guarded by a WaterCastle, and farther within by the Fort _Puntael_. Along the Sea-shore their Landing was prevented by the violent beating of the Waves, and a great square Tower on the Way up to the Fort _Nazareth_, whose Church is seen at a great distance off at Sea. All which consider’d, they judg’d it best to draw off their Men again, and so they return’d without having effected any thing to the purpose, onely Captain _Schuppe_ took two Carvels with five hundred Chests of Sugar in the River _Formosa_. [Sidenote: The City of _Garasu_ surprised by the _Hollanders_.] Soon after _Martin Thyszoon_ being sent out with twenty two Sail, sent four Ships for _Holland_ with the Lieutenant-Colonel _Stein Callenfels_, and the Councellor _Serooskerken_; yet thirteen Sail remain’d still before the Coast of _Brasile_, under the Command of Captain _John Mast_, who whilest he stood to and again from the Shore, and Cruising up and down, the Governor of _Reciffa_ and Colonel _Rembach_ march’d with five hundred Men and forty _Negro_’s, from _Reciffa_ about six a Clock at Night, by _Olinda_ along the Shore: Whereupon the _Portuguese_ Horse-watch ran instantly to _Real_, two Leagues from _Olinda_, to give notice thereof to _Albuquerque_; but they surmounted all the Difficulties they met with by the Way (which were the greater in regard of the abundance of Rain that had lately fall’n,) and on the first of _May_ 1632, came to the City _Garasu_ about Noon; where whilest _Rembach_ stood still in good order with three Companies, the Governor of _Reciffa_ fell upon the Town with three Companies. The Inhabitants had not the least thoughts of being molested by the _Netherlanders_ there, because they judg’d the Ways which led thither could not be pass’d in that rainy Season. In the first Onset a hundred _Portugueses_, most of them great Merchants, were slain, they being come thither with their Goods from _Olinda_; and amongst the Prisoners which they took, were six _Franciscans_. This Victory the _Hollanders_ obtain’d with the loss but of eight Men, and twenty five wounded, besides Captain _Rembach_, who was also wounded. The Governor of _Reciffa_ entering the City, stav’d two hundred Pipes of Wine, to keep his Soldiers from over-drinking; and because there were many fair Women there, he caus’d them all to be lock’d up in the Church of _St. Cosmo_, to preserve them from the Soldiers outrages. [Sidenote: Description of _Garasu_.] The Priest _Duarte Mendez Serraon_ (a Letter of whose _John de Laet_ quotes) values the Booty carry’d away by the _Hollanders_ from _Garasu_, at 9000 l. _Sterl._ besides the damage which the Place suffer’d, being almost ruin’d. He relates farther, That the City call’d _Villa de Santo Cosmo de Garasu_ lay five Leagues to the Northward from _Olinda_; and that in it were three Churches, _viz._ _Cosmus_, _Misericordia_, and _Heremitage de Santa Crux_; as also two Cloysters, _viz._ _Invocation de Antonio_, inhabited by _Capuchins_, and another dedicated to _Franciscus_, inhabited by Persons of his Order; That the chief Church _Cosmus_, built like a flat-roof’d House, had a fair Entrance, before which stood two Turrets, and in them hung Bells; That the _Franciscan_ Cloyster was inclos’d within a great Wall in the middle of a pleasant Garden, and had on each side a Tower; That most of the People who kept the Feast of _St. Philip_ and _St. Jacob_, were at _Mass_ when the _Hollanders_ came thither, and though they saw the Soldiers out of their Windows, judg’d them to be _Portugueses_, who (as it was reported) had a Design upon _Tamarica_. The Governor of _Reciffa_ marching with his Booty from _Garusa_, set several Houses on fire, and march’d towards the Fort _Orange_, on the Island _Tamarica_. _Albuquerque_ inform’d thereof, dispatch’d a _Spanish_ Regiment, Commanded by Colonel _Ferdinand Ludovico Barbalho_, and _Paulo de Perado_, with a considerable Body of Volunteers; but they all came too late: Whereupon the _Portugueses_, being thus kept in continual Alarms ashore, and sustaining every day more and more Losses at Sea, began to desire Peace, and the rather, because they could not hear of any Fleet coming from _Spain_ to their assistance; and hearing a Report, that the _West-India_ Company were making great Preparations. To which purpose _Peter Alvares_ (acquainted with the _Dutch_ Commanders, as having been their Prisoner) was sent by _Duarte de Albuquerque_ (to whom the Lordship of _Pernambuco_ properly belong’d) and by his Brother (being General of all the Forces in _Brasile_) to _Reciffa_, to Treat about the deciding of the Differences between them and the _Netherland West-India_ Company: But the Council in _Reciffa_ weighing the many Disadvantages that would ensue, if they should upon easie Terms patch up a Peace with the _Portugueses_, return’d _Alvares_ this Answer: “That the _West-India_ Company was resolv’d, to the utmost of their power, to keep all those Places which they had taken by force of Arms; but that if he could move _Albuquerque_ to deliver up the Countrey to them, he should be bountifully rewarded.” After this the _Hollanders_ Landing at _Barra Grande_, took great quantities of Wine and Tobacco, and burnt two Villages; as also the Sugar-Cane Fields, and Sugar-Mills on _Catuwanha_, also one at _Barra Grande_, and three at _Porto Francisco_. At the same time the _Hollanders_ also scatter’d Letters amongst the _Portuguese_, signifying their trouble for the great effusion of Blood in those Parts, which was occasion’d by their own stubborn and unreasonable Proceedings; likewise intimating the great Preparations that were making on their own part, and on the other side the great unlikelihood, and indeed impossibility, as things then stood, of receiving farther Succors from _Spain_. [Sidenote: The _Hollanders_ Counsels betray’d to the _Portuguese_ by _Leonard van Lom_.] These things being powerfully urg’d, had perhaps taken greater effect with the _Portugueses_, had not the secret Counsels of the _Netherlanders_ been betray’d by _Leonard van Lom_, Overseer of the Prizes, and Translater of the _Portuguese_ Letters, who confess’d that he was perswaded to that villanous Action in _Amsterdam_ by a _Portuguese_ Merchant, call’d _Duarte Rodrigues Delves_, with whom he had made some Agreement; and for the better confirmation had receiv’d the _Sacrament_ upon it of an _Amsterdam_ Priest: His Agreement was, “That he should go to _Reciffa_, enquire after all Concerns, and give speedy advice thereof to _Rocque de Barros_; which he did by a _Mulatto_, who carry’d Letters between them.” This Villain the Council judging worthy of Death, first caus’d his two fore-Fingers to be cut off, next his Head, and afterwards his Body to be divided into four Quarters. The _Mulatto_ was likewise Beheaded. About this time the Treasurer _Ceulen_ viewing the Isle _Mayo_, found the same to be surrounded with steep Rocks, abounding with Horses, Asses, Partridges and Goats, besides two Salt-pans. The Inhabitants, which go Arm’d with Half-pikes and rusty Hangers, are said to be a sort of out-law’d _Portugueses_, to the number of thirty, amongst whom was one Woman. They had a Governor, call’d _Amaro_, to whom they gave yearly eight thousand Goat-skins. _Ceulen_ Sailing from hence Steer’d by the Island _Del Fogo_, known by a great Mountain, whose high top vomits Fire. Not far from which he took the Ship _St. Peter_ laden with Wine, with which he return’d safe to _Reciffa_, where a while after _Gysselling_ arriv’d also, and was no sooner Landed, but four Ships, two Sloops, six Cock-boats, a Barque and a Hoy, set Sail under the Conduct of _John Mast_ with four or five Companies of choice Musquetteers, Commanded by Colonel _Schuppe_, who Landed behind the stonie Bank of the River _Alexio_, surpris’d some _Portuguese_ and _Negro_’s in their Houses, and march’d in the Night so fast, that by Day-break they were got to the Shore of the River _Formosa_, where they took two rich laden Fly-boats and a Carvel; and afterwards Landing in the Road _Camarigibi_, they took fifty _Portuguese_ in a Village, as also a Store-house full of Chests with Sugar and Tobacco, burnt all the Buildings thereabouts, and amongst others a brave Sugar-Mill: Captain _Byma_ burnt also an eminent Sugar-Mill near the Brook _Maria Farinha_. _Martin Thyszoon_ lay a long time under the _Line_; but at last getting to the Isle _Vacca_ he gave each Captain his Orders, and divided the Fleet, which joyn’d again before _Havana_, pass’d through the Straights _Bahama_ (where he met with great Storms, and many other Inconveniences) to _Holland_. But _Galeyn van Stapels_, who parted with a Frigat from _Thyszoons_ Fleet near _Bonaire_, Steer’d by the Promontory _Cotoche_ to _Sisal_; which Village having plunder’d, he set it on fire, fetch’d a Barque in the Night from the Road of _Campeche_ (whose City is seen at a great distance off at Sea, by the white Cloyster _Francisco_) and so set Sail for _Zealand_. _Houte-been_ arriv’d also about the middle of _June_ with a rich Booty in the _Texel_. [Sidenote: _Schuppe_ and _Lichthart_ take the Fort _Formosa_.] Not long after _Houte-been_ weighing Anchor with the _Otter_ Frigat, return’d to _Reciffa_, and in his Way thither took a Ship laden with Wine. Colonel _Schuppe_ immediately upon his arrival had a Command given him of five hundred Men, and _John Lichthart_ of three Sail of Ships, a Pinnace and five Sloops; with which they set Sail to the River _Formosa_. _Schuppe_ Landing his Men there, march’d up to the Fort _Formosa_, fortifi’d with Moats, steep high Walls, and four Guns, Storm’d and took the same, killing all those that were in the Garrison, except the Governor _Peter Albuquerque_: In which Victory nevertheless the _Hollanders_ lost the valiant Captain _Philbert du Basson_, who being shot in at the Throat with a Bullet, which came out behind the Ear, dy’d of the same, the Wound immediately festering, to which all Wounds are very subject in _Brasile_. The _Hollanders_ also burnt four laden Barques, a Store-house full of Sugar, and pull’d down the Fort they had taken. Setting Sail again, they Landed to the Northward of the River _Antonio Grande_, where they gain’d a Platform with five Guns, destroy’d six Ships, and took two more in the Haven _Camarigibi_; from whence they return’d to _Reciffa_, after having spoil’d and taken thirteen of the _Portuguese_ Ships, several Sugar-Mills, Store-houses, and a Castle. The _Swol_ Frigat came also in a shatter’d condition to _Reciffa_, having been Engag’d with a _Spanish_ Gallion carrying twenty eight great Guns, and full of Men, which nevertheless she would have master’d, had not an unfortunate Shot spoil’d all her Rigging. About the same time the Captains _Byma_, _Everwyn_, and _Rinking_, set Sail with their Companies in three Ships to _Porto Francisco_, where Landing, they burnt three Sugar-Mills, besides several other brave Buildings, and brought away a rich Carvel, whilest _Laurence van Rembach_ was made Colonel in _Waerdenberg_’s place, and _Sigismond Schuppe_ Lieutenant-Colonel. The Proffers which the _Tapuyan_ Agent made to the _Hollanders_ had been very advantageous, had not the Summer Season been too far spent: for he had promis’d, That if they would Land a considerable Party of Men two Leagues Southward from the River _Grande_, all the _Tapuyans_ should joyn with them, and assist them in driving the _Portuguese_ out of _Brasile_. After this _Schuppe_ and _Lichthart_ went with thirteen Companies of Soldiers, and two hundred Seamen, to fall upon the Enemy’s Camp at the _Afogados_, where _Albuquerque_ had rais’d several Works, partly for the securing of _Verga_, the best Spot of Land in all _Pernambuco_, where there are likewise more Sugar-Mills than in the whole Countrey, and partly to keep an open Way between _Arryal_ and the Promontory _St. Augustine_: To which purpose they march’d by the Fort _Æmilia_ along the plain Countrey, to the Stream _Capivaribi_, which they had cross’d before the _Portuguese_ knew any thing of their approach, who being but a hundred and thirty, forsook their Works and ran into the Woods; but assisted with four Companies of _Italians_, they Sally’d out of _Real_ and fell with great eagerness on the Seamen, who being guarded by forty Musquetteers were raising of Works in the Road which leads to _Real_, and put them to flight; but being rally’d, and seconded by Colonel _Redburgh_, they drove the Enemy into a By-way, guarded by _Byma_ and _Bongarson_; where being stopt, and Captain _Cloppenburgh_ from another side falling in amongst them with his Musquetteers, they became encompass’d, and had been all slain, had not _Le Grande_, by making way for _Cloppenburgh_, given them an opportunity of getting away between them. The Council at _Reciffa_, to secure the footing which they had got on the other side of the River _Capavaribi_, took order about the building of a Fort, which requir’d the greater Labor, because the Earth was very stonie: not far from whence Captain _John Smith_ walking, was shot by a Party of _Portuguese_ lying behind some Chests of Sugar; the Blow whereof giving notice to his Ensign, he speedily march’d thither, and surprising the _Portuguese_, kill’d most part of them. The like success had _Le Grande_, _Cloppenburgh_, and _Bongarson_, who marching out upon a Design, surpris’d unawares in _John de Mendoza_’s Sugar-Mill, two Companies of _Portuguese_, who having watch’d there the whole Night, and composing themselves in the Morning to sleep, were set upon, and most of them kill’d, and the old Commander _Antonio Ortizo de Mendoza_ taken, who not long before came thither with a Regiment of _Portugueses_; the Sugar-Mill was also set on fire. These successful Expeditions still adding to the _Hollanders_ fresh Courage, they follow’d the career of their Successes, and placing three Companies in the Works of the _Afogados_, drew their Army into three Divisions; Colonel _Rembach_ was to Command the Forlorn; _Schuppe_, the main Body; and _Byma_, the Reserve; in which Order they waded through the River _Capivaribi_, placing some Musquetteers in a House built near the High-way, to secure their Return that way, and came without any resistance to the _Arryal_; where they found a long Street, with Shops on each side full of all sorts of Goods, which they pillag’d, notwithstanding the Enemy fir’d furiously from the Castle upon them, and wounded Colonel _Rembach_ and Captain _Redburgh_. To the Northward before the Castle lay a Redoubt with two Guns, which _Schuppe_ mastering, kill’d all that were in the same; but being too weak to carry away the Guns, he nail’d up the Touch-holes, and march’d off with his Men, but in such disorder, that the _Portuguese_ Sallying out of their Garrison, fell in amongst them in that manner, that they were not able to bring away their wounded Men, amongst whom was Captain _Redburgh_; and it had been worse, had not _Rembach_ (who though he was shot in at the Shoulder, under the Blade-bone whereof lay the Bullet) kept them off till such time as the _Hollanders_ were got over the River _Capivaribi_, near the fore-mention’d House, guarded by a Company of Musquetteers, who kill’d above fifty of the _Portugueses_, besides fifty that had been slain in the former Skirmishes; the _Hollanders_ themselves also had lost a hundred and thirty Men: yet notwithstanding they ceased not, but march’d in Parties through all parts of _Verga_, where they met with no opposition, but found the Sugar-Mills full of Sugar, left to be kept by a few _Negro_’s. _Rembach_ also sent a Drummer to _Real_, to demand the Wounded, especially Colonel _Redburgh_, with a Letter from the Prisoner _Antonio Mendoza_, requesting the Governor _Albuquerque_ and Duke of _Bagnola_, that they would be pleas’d to release the _Hollanders_ on Exchange, or else upon Ransom. The Drummer being civilly Entertain’d by _Albuquerque_, brought back with him a strange Oyl call’d _Aury_, for the wounded _Mendoza_; with which a Wound made by a Bullet being anointed about three fingers breadth, it draws out the same. _Bagnola_ afterwards sent it to _Rembach_, in requital for his kindness in sending _Mendoza_ in a Hammock to _Real_. Mean while the _Hollanders_ still fortifi’d their Works at the _Afogados_ with Pallisado’s and Platforms, on which they put five Guns. They likewise work’d daily on the fore-mention’d Castle, whilest _Schuppe_ march’d with four hundred Men in the Night over the River _Jangada_ to _Moribeca_; which approaching, he perceiv’d the Way stopt up with fell’d Trees; wherefore he march’d about to the Village, which he found forsaken by the Inhabitants, and all the Houses left empty, onely five hundred Chests of Sugar that had been brought thither from _Verga_ which _Schuppe_ Commanded to be set on fire with the Village, leaving onely the Church, and at his Return burnt also a Sugar-Mill. [Sidenote: Articles between the _West-India_ Company and the King of _Spain_.] The Governor _Albuquerque_ having formerly never spar’d any _Hollanders_ which fell into his hands, began now to be better advis’d; and it was also Agreed upon between the King of _Spain_ and _States_ of the _United Netherlands_, That they should burn no Church, unless the one, or the other Party made resistance in the same; That the Victor should be oblig’d, upon request of Quarter, to spare his Enemies, and release the Prisoners for an indifferent sum of Money; That both Parties should forbear to use chew’d or poyson’d Bullets. _Schuppe_ being chosen Chief over the _Militia_ in _Rembach_’s Place (who dy’d of his Wound,) lay not long still, but setting Sail with eleven Ships to the Isle _Tamarica_, Landed seven Companies before the Castle _Nostra Sennora de Conception_; which, though well provided and fortifi’d, the Governor _Pignioro_ surrendred, on Condition that he might depart with all his Men and the Church Ornaments. _Matthias Van Ceulen_ and _Schuppe_ Rowing up the Stream _Goiana_ with Sloops and Boats, put to flight _Laurence Cavalcanti_, burnt divers Sugar-Mills, and took abundance of rich Merchandize: Ten days they made havock in the middle of their Enemies Countreys without any resistance; for all of them fled to the _Aldas_, (so they call the _Brasilian_ Villages): At last they return’d home with great Booty, especially of Sugar and _Brasile_ Wood; whilest those at _Reciffa_ were not idle, doing the _Portuguese_ great mischief by their continual Sallies, _Tourlong_ burning a Fishers Village, and _Bongarson_ a stately Banquetting-house belonging to _Cavalcant_ near _Arryal_; as also _Pedro Acunha de Andada_’s Sugar-Mill, from whence he took great Booty. [Sidenote: The _Portuguese_ begin to fall off to the _Hollanders_.] [Sidenote: _Jacob Huigen_ slain.] About the same time the _Portuguese_ of several Parts, terrifi’d by continual Alarms and Losses, began to incline to the _West-India_ Company, believing that they should utterly be ruin’d, if they continu’d to joyn with _Albuquerque_’s Party (who claim’d _Pernambuco_ wholly to himself) and therefore car’d not whether he or the _Hollanders_ were Masters, so they might live peaceably. Mean while the _Hollanders_ march’d from the _Afogados_ to _Arryal_: _Schuppe_ marching before with two hundred and fifty Seamen, was follow’d by the Lieutenant-Colonel _De Vries_, and he by a Company of _Negro_’s that carry’d Provisions; next _Byma_ march’d with the Reserve. The Treasurer _John Gyseling_ also accompanied the Army, which Encamp’d near _Francisco Brito Machado_’s Wind-Mill, and Garrison’d the half-finish’d Fort near the Sugar-Mill belonging to _Marcus Andre_, whilest three Companies Commanded by Captain _De Vries_ march’d to _Monteroos-Mills_ to take the same; but the _Portuguese_ lying in an Ambuscade had given them a shrewd Rebuke, had not _Schuppe_, hearing the Guns, sent away the Captains _Picard_ and _Garstman_, who coming out from amongst the Sugar-Canes, put the Enemy to flight; yet the _Portuguese_ to increase daily, insomuch that they got above two thousand Men together at _Arryal_, whilest the _Dutch_ Army began to want Provisions, wherefore _Jacob Huigen_ was order’d to fetch a Supply from _Reciffa_; but as he was coming up the River with the _Exeter_ Ketch, and a Boat hung about with Hides to secure his Men from the Bullets, and being within Musquet-shot from the Works where Captain _Schuppe_ lay, the Enemy’s whole Power shot so vehemently upon him from the top of a Hill, that both the Ketch and Boat were sunk; _Huigen_ himself receiv’d two mortal Wounds, and most of his Men were kill’d, a few wounded onely escaping with Life. _Schuppe_ therefore was forc’d to return for want of Provisions, and the rather, because he was inform’d that _Bagnola_ was coming with a Supply of seven hundred Men. Mean while the two Captains, _Smient_ and _Dunkirken_ perform’d a valiant Exploit, _viz._ they went with a few Men in a Boat, and took a great _Portuguese_ Vessel richly laden, having no more than four Blunderbusses and their Swords in the Boat with them. [Sidenote: A notable Victory of _Byma_ over _Francisco Almeda_.] _Byma_ also fell upon the Village _Moriwere_, where he found most of the People at Church. _Albuquerque_ inform’d thereof, sent two hundred Men immediately, Commanded by _Francisco Almeda_, to intercept him in his Return; but he marching on to _Tamarica_, they pursu’d him; he marching but slowly, because the narrow Way was stopt up with fell’d Trees, they overtook him half a League beyond _Garasu_, near _Peter Rocha_’s Sugar-Mill; where after a sharp Encounter between them, a great slaughter was made amongst the _Spaniards_, _Almeda_ and many other Persons being slain, and the rest put to flight. _Byma_ having obtain’d this Victory, march’d to _Garusa_ and burnt the same, sparing onely the Churches and Cloysters, according to the Articles made between _Albuquerque_ and _Rembach_. _Schuppe_ prevented from crossing the River _Jangada_ by the many muddy Creek, return’d back to _Reciffa_ with great Booty, which he had taken out of a Store-house. The _Dutch_ Cruisers also brought in many Prizes. [Sidenote: _Van Hoorn_’s Exploits.] The Exploits perform’d by _John Johnszoon van Hoorn_, with four Ships, three Ketches, and a Sloop, are likewise very remarkable; for with this Fleet in the first place he took the City _Truxillo_, and from thence Sailing towards the City _Campeche_, and Storming the same valiantly, soon became Master of it; the Booty of which two Places being brought aboard, increas’d considerably the _West-India_ Companies Stock. In regard _Albuquerque_ understood the Situation of _Pernambuco_ better than the _Hollanders_, and had all the Natives to assist him, and by consequence was the better able to defend himself against their continual Alarms, the Council at _Reciffa_ therefore judg’d it convenient to make a farther Voyage to the South, that the _Portuguese_, who were highly discontented about the Losses which they had sustain’d, might be the sooner induc’d to submit to their Government: To which purpose ten Ketches, Mann’d with seven hundred Soldiers, besides Seamen, set Sail on the tenth of _October_, under the Command of _John Gyseling_, _Schuppe_, and _Servaes Carpentier_, who first ran into the River _Porto de Piedras_, where they took a considerable number of Chests of Sugar, out of Mills, Barques, and Store-houses, waded through the little Scream _Tatona Mansa_, burnt a Village of the same Denomination, and Sail’d to the River _Camarigibi_, which they Rowing up in the Night, were got not above four Leagues by Day-break, the contrary Tide, and the Plants call’d _Mangues_ having hindred them from getting farther; but being inform’d by certain _Portuguese_ Prisoners, that abundance of Sugar lay in _Porto Francisco_, they marching thither, found under a Straw Roof in a Wood, seventy four Chests of Sugar, and a great deal more in several Store-houses. They also pillag’d the whole Countrey towards _Alagoa del Noort_, _St. Miguel_, and _Alagoa del Zur_. Not far from which _Schuppe_ falling upon the Village _Sennora de Conception_, burnt the same, as also a Ship upon the Stocks, the Houses at the Mouth of the Stream _Alagoa_, and the Tackling belonging to the two Ships, and carry’d away with them a very great Booty. _Tourlon_ also march’d with four Companies from _Tamarica_ to _Mangianguape_, where the Garrison from _Garasu_; and some _Jesuits_ lay, to disswade the People from submitting themselves to the _West-India_ Company, to which they were much inclin’d. But _Tourlon_ march’d not so privately, but that the Enemy had notice thereof, and fled; wherefore he finding _Mangianguape_ empty, offer’d the same to the Flames, as also several Sugar-Mills, but spar’d the Lives of all those who begg’d Quarter. [Sidenote: _Byma_’s bold Attempt.] _Byma_ about the same time with a hundred and forty Musquetteers, besides two Companies of Seamen, leaving the _Afogados_ in the Night, march’d to _Amaro_ by Daybreak, which he set on fire, with a Sugar-Mill and a Store-house full of Sugar, after every Soldier had taken as much as he could carry: upon which the Enemy taking Alarm, plac’d their Ambuscades so cunningly, and fell upon them so furiously, that they had undoubtedly kill’d every Man of them, had not a Party come in timely to their assistance, and forc’d the _Portuguese_ to fly to a neighboring Sugar-Mill built on a Hill, from whence they fir’d with great eagerness, and made a mighty noise, blowing their Trumpets and beating their Drums. _Byma_ being forced to pass by the Mill within the reach of the Enemy’s Guns, resolv’d upon a bold Attempt, and commanding his Men to throw away their Sugar, and other Booty with which they burthen’d themselves, on a sudden ran up to the top of the Hill; which Action so amaz’d the _Portuguese_, that they fled without offering the least resistance. _Byma_ thereupon proceeded on his Way to the _Afogados_, leaving behind him above seventy slain, and divers wounded. [Sidenote: Prizes taken by _Smient_ and _Lichthart_.] During these Exploits on Shore, the Commander _Smient_ Cruis’d with six Sail before _Paraiba_; two Ships belonging to his Fleet steering towards the Haven of _Formosa_, discover’d five Carvels, a Pink carrying twenty six, and a great Fly-boat eighteen Guns, both _Dunkirkers_; one of the Carvels ran aground, and was stav’d to pieces, two of them got into _Rio Grande_, and the other two were taken. About the same time _Lichthart_ with two Sloops pass’d into the River _Conayou_, set upon seven Barques of the _Portuguese_, Mann’d with seventy Seamen, and ply’d them with his Brass Guns after such a manner, that few escap’d with their Lives: he took what he thought fit out of the Barques, and afterwards set them on fire. [Sidenote: _Van Ceulen_’s Expedition.] The Treasurer _Matthias van Ceulen_ weighed Anchor with four Ships and seven Ketches, Mann’d with eight hundred Men, with which he set Sail to _Rio Grande_, with intention to fall upon the Fort _Tres Reyes_. In the River he took two Carvels, though they lay close under the Castle, Landed a Company of Soldiers, and a hundred and fifty Seamen on the Southern Shore, guarded the fresh River with Boats, march’d directly to _Tres Reyes_, and Encamp’d himself near the Redoubt which lay before the Castle, being follow’d by _Byma_, _Garstman_, and _Cloppenburgh_, who in their Way took a House built on a Hill, and considerable Booty in it. _Byma_ getting about Noon to the Village _Natall_, left some of his Men there, whilest he march’d with the rest to the Castle _Tres Reyes_. _Ceulen_ sending to demand the Castle, receiv’d at first a resolute denyal from the Governor _Peter Mendez de Govea_; but when the Besieged saw the _Hollanders_ resolutely bent upon a Storm, they sent to desire a Treaty, and after some small Capitulation the Castle was surrendred upon Articles. _Garstman_ being made Commander of the Castle, had a hundred and fifty Soldiers allow’d him. The Fleet set Sail again, after they had pull’d down and destroy’d all the Works which had been rais’d, and made the Inhabitants take an Oath to be faithful to _Garstman_, who chang’d the Name of the Castle from _Tres Reyes_ to that of _Ceulen_, being the Name of the Treasurer, who bore the chiefest Command in the Siege, and when the _Brasilian_ King _Jandui_ came with a great Train to congratulate the Companies success, receiv’d him with great civility. In the beginning of the Year 1634. twenty six Sail weighed Anchor from _Reciffa_, to Cruise up and down in Squadrons before the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, the Promontory _St. Augustine_, the Rivers _Francisco_ and _Parayba_. _Schuppe_ and _Lichthart_ also set Sail with two Ships, a Ketch, two Pinnaces, and a Sloop, carrying two hundred Soldiers besides Seamen. [Sidenote: _Lichthart_ drives the _Portuguese_ out of the _Puntael_.] Mean while fresh Forces were sent from the _Texel_, the _Maes_ and _Zeland_, to _Reciffa_, where the Council undertook another notable Design, _viz._ to surprize the Forts along the River _Parayba_: whither coming with twenty Sail, they divided themselves into two Squadrons under the Command of the Treasurer _John Gyseling_, _Schuppe_, _Servaes Carpentier_, and _Lichthart_. Having receiv’d some repulse at the Fort _Nazaretta_, they resolv’d upon Action in some other place, and to that purpose Steer’d towards the Point _St. Augustine_; by Day-break a part of the Fleet ran into the Mouth of the Haven, notwithstanding the _Portuguese_ fir’d upon them with great Guns from the Castle, and all their Works, without doing any considerable damage, onely the _Sea-knight_ Ketch running aground was Shatter’d all to pieces; whilest the _Hollanders_ Commanded by Captain _Lichthart_ Landed near _Puntael_, and fell upon the _Portuguese_ in such a manner, that they forc’d them to forsake the Place, burnt above two thousand Chests of Sugar, several Store-houses, and a great Ship, besides two Barques. [Sidenote: They endeavor in vain to regain the _Puntael_.] _Lichthart_ being Master of the _Puntael_, was very busie in finishing a Stone Redoubt which the Enemy had begun, and secur’d it by a Wall and Pallisado’s. Here he plac’d two Companies, and rais’d several Works, whilest the _Portuguese_ receiving Aid from all the neighboring Places, set upon the recovery of the _Puntael_, being the rather encourag’d thereunto, in regard the _Hollanders_ Forces were still in their Ships. Fifteen hundred _Portugueses_ were divided into two Parties, the greatest of which came through behind the adjacent Morasses, and forc’d in on the side of the place near which the fifteen Ships taken by _Lichthart_ lay at an Anchor, whilest the other Party fell upon the Out-works; where though the _Hollanders_ defended themselves valiantly at first, yet they were forc’d to Retreat to the Redoubt, where both Parties fought with great eagerness; but the _Hollanders_ Ketches haling near the Shore, and firing in amongst the _Portuguese_ with their great Guns, forc’d them to flye, and contrary to their Custom, to leave their dead Bodies behind them. Soon after, whilest _Gysseling_, _Schuppe_, and _Lichthart_ stay’d at the _Puntael_, the _Portuguese_, designing to take _Reciffa_, kept the _Afogados_ and the Fort on _Antonio Vaes_ in continual Alarm; which made the _Hollanders_ send most of their _Militia_ thither, and to fortifie yet more strongly than before. The Castle _De Bruin_ first discovering the _Portuguese_ wading through the Water, fir’d great Guns at them, upon the hearing of which _Waerdenburgh_ and _St. George_ fir’d also. The Treasurer _Ceulen_ and Lieutenant-Colonel _Byma_ march’d with a Company of Soldiers to the Stone Redoubt, from whence they fir’d stoutly upon the Enemy; yet thirty of them got by the Pallisado’s and Stone Redoubt: wherefore _Ceulen_ march’d in with some of his Men to assist the Citizens, and keep the woodden Battery, where the _Portuguese_ were stopt, and with great and small Shot put to flight. The Prisoners which the _Hollanders_ took inform’d them, That _Martin Suares_, chief Commander over the _Portuguese_ that made this Attempt, had divided his Men into three Parties; the Reserve, which consisted of three hundred Men, was to march on upon the making of a sign when the other Parties were past, one along the River _Bibiriba_, and the other along the Shore by the Stone Redoubt into _Reciffa_, to burn the Place, as also all manner of Provision and Ammunition. [Sidenote: _Byma_ attempts the taking of _Real_, but without success.] Whilest this Design of the _Portuguese_ fell out so unfortunately, being discover’d to _Ceulen_ by a Renegado, the _Hollanders_ at _Reciffa_ receiv’d two Companies from their Regiment at the _Puntael_, and a considerable number of Men rais’d in _Holland_ by the _West India_ Company. _Ceulen_ and _Byma_ thus supply’d, went continually out in Parties, burnt in view of the Garrison in _Arryal_ the Sugar-Mills belonging to _Francisco Montero_ and _Lewis Ramires_, and were inform’d by five _Italian_ Renegado’s, That there were not three hundred Men in Garrison in _Arryal_; which so encourag’d _Byma_, that he resolving to fall upon the same, march’d thither in the Night with a thousand Men from _Reciffa_, and by Day-break shot sixteen Granado’s from a neighboring Hill, of which seven fell into _Arryal_, but did little Execution; besides, the Strength of the Place was such, and the number of Men so considerable, that his Design had no other success, than that a Hand-granado falling short amongst the Houses before the Fort, set fire on them, and in a short time burnt a whole Street with rich Shops, and the Habitations of the _Italians_. The _Portuguese_ at the _Puntael_ being inform’d, that _Byma_ had Besieg’d _Arryal_ with a thousand Men, judg’d that most of the _Hollanders_ were gone thither from the _Puntael_; which they were the apter to believe, because the _Hollanders_ coming but little abroad stay’d within their Redoubts, which _Lichthart_ had joyn’d to a Battery; wherefore they made another Attempt with a hundred and twenty Men on the _Puntael_; but a Carvel with two Brass Guns, and a Company of Soldiers lying at Anchor near the Place by which the _Portuguese_ were to pass, and they not expecting to meet with any resistance there, they were, as soon as they approached the Carvel, fir’d upon by the _Hollanders_, who killing several of their Men, so affrighted them, that they return’d without making any farther Attempt. [Sidenote: Overtures of Peace from the _Portuguese_.] Whilest every day more and more Prizes were taken by the _Hollanders_, and brought into _Reciffa_, and fresh Supplies sent them from _Holland_, there began to be some Overtures of Peace from the _Portuguese_; wherein also the King of _Spain_, by reason of the several Damages he had sustain’d from the _Dutch_, began to concern himself, and to menace them with the great Forces he was able to raise, by reason of the late safe arrival of two rich Plate-Fleets, if they came not to reasonable Terms. But answer was return’d from _Byma_, “That if they were minded to Treat about giving of Quarter, or any such like Point in difference between them, they should find him ready; but that the _West-India_ Company would never resign those Places taken in _Brasile_ with the Sword, either for Money or Goods, but would defend them to the utmost of their Power.” The _Hollanders_ also chang’d the Names of several Places taken from the _Portuguese_; for the Castle near the Promontory _St. Augustine_ was call’d _Gysseling_; the Town on _Tamarica_, _Schuppen-stadt_; the Fort at the _Afogados_, _Prince William_; and the _Puntael_, _The Fortress Vander Dussen_. [Sidenote: _Ceulen_ and _Gysseling_ return home.] [Sidenote: _Jandur_’s great service to the _Netherlanders_.] Notwithstanding the Requests of the _States_ of the _Netherlands_ and _West-India_ Company, to the Commissioners _Ceulen_ and _Gysseling_, to stay longer in the _West-Indies_, yet they prepar’d for their Voyage home, and the speedier, because they expected great scarcity of Provisions, unless a sudden Supply came from _Holland_. During their two years Government here, they had taken five thousand five hundred and nineteen Chests of Sugar, a hundred fifty nine thousand nine hundred thirty and nine Pound of _Brasile_ Wood, one and thirty Ships laden with several Goods, which amounted to 230000 _l._ besides the value of the Ships and Guns, the taken Forts, destroy’d Sugar-Mills, and other Buildings. They left at their going away above four thousand Soldiers, divided into thirty two Companies, to guard _Brasile_, under the Command of _Schuppe_ and _Arcisseusky_, and carry’d with them a hundred Soldiers, besides one and fifty sick and maimed: Moreover, thirty two Sail of Ships, Mann’d with a thousand and eighty seven Seamen, were order’d to Cruise up and down before the Coast of _Brasile_, besides four Ketches before the Promontory of _St. Augustine_, and six Ships in the Haven of _Pernambuco_. After _Ceulen_ and _Gysseling_ had set Sail for _Holland_, divers Prizes were brought into _Reciffa_, as also several Ships arriv’d there from the _Texel_ and the _Maes_. The _Hollanders_ went out continually in Parties, whilest _Schuppe_ and _Lichthart_ set Sail also with eight Ships, Mann’d with six Companies of Soldiers, besides Seamen, to plunder and pillage all the Havens to the South, where several _Portuguese_ Vessels lay laden with Sugar. But _Janduy_, who with his Subjects the _Tapuyans_, joyn’d with the Governor _Garstman_, kill’d at one time thirty seven _Portugueses_, and not long after two hundred and sixty more; taking his leave of _Garstman_, went home with six _Hollanders_, leaving his Son, the young _Janduy_, and his Brother _Caracara_, together with his Nephew _Copun_, to his care. _Janduy_ made it his Business to perswade the adjacent _Tapuyans_ to joyn their Forces with his, and so by the _Hollanders_ assistance to fall upon the _Portuguese_. Mean while the young _Janduy_ and _Copun_ went to _Reciffa_, which was the rather permitted, that they might be able to damp the Reports which the _Portuguese_ had spread amongst the _Tapuyans_, _viz._ That the _Hollanders_ were very ill provided, and therefore made all possible Preparations to defend _Reciffa_, and consequently the whole Countrey of _Brasile_, and so leave those _Tapuyans_ that joyn’d with them to the mercy of the _Spaniards_. [Sidenote: Ambassadors sent to consult with him about carrying on their Designs.] Not long after were dispatch’d from thence the Councellors _Jacob Stackhower_, and Colonel _Arcisseusky_, with the Interpreter _Antonio Parapoavo_, to Treat with _Janduy_ about the Design which they had upon the _Portuguese_, and also what Advantages he should receive, if he would assist the _West-India_ Company with his Forces, whenever he should be sent to. [Sidenote: His Power, Enemies, and Allies.] King _Janduy_ bore Command over sixteen hundred Men, whose Wives carry’d their Hammocks after them to sleep on in the Night, having no setled Habitations, but ranging in Parties up and down from place to place to get their Food; the young People went commonly along with _Beretiawa_, and the old with _Janduy_; round about whose Countrey dwelt the poor Natives _Aciki_, as also _Juckerijou_, _Ocioneciou_, _Pajoke_, and _Aponorijou_: the first are Commanded by King _Coctaculy_; the second, by _Marakou_, a Friend of the _Portugueses_; the third, by _Nonhu_; the fourth, by _Kidoa_; and the last, by _Jarepo_: which two last are no way inferior in Power to _Janduy_, but the others much weaker. Four sorts of People continually Warr’d against _Janduy_, _viz._ the _Jenho_, who live so far up in the Countrey, that no _Christians_ ever came to the knowledge of them; the other three are the _Woyana_, _Carivy_, and _Caririwassu_, who assist the _Portuguese_. The fore-mention’d Interpreter _Parapoavo_ was met in his Journey by a Company of _Tapuyans_, led by _Commendaoura_, _Janduy_’s Sisters Son, who was to succeed him after his death, according to the Custom of the _Tapuyans_, whose Sons do not succeed their Fathers in the Throne, but their Sisters Sons. _Commendaoura_ told him, That he was impower’d by his Uncle to Treat with the _Hollanders_; to which purpose coming with forty Men before the Castle _Ceulen_, he inform’d them, That _Jandouy_ could not come to them with his whole Power, because there was no fresh Water in the Mountains _Mitiapa_ in the Summer; Moreover, that he Mourn’d for his deceased Wife. _Janduoy_ was also requested to go to _Parayba_, where he should get great store of Booty, and that the _Hollanders_ would follow them with a considerable Power. [Sidenote: The Fort _Conayou_ taken by _Arcisseusky_.] _Arcisseusky_ being inform’d of the Condition of _Conayou_ by two, who having been taken Prisoners by the _Portuguese_, leap’d over-board from a Carvel, bound from thence to _Portugal_, and swam ashore, march’d from the Fort _Ceulen_ in the Night with two hundred Men, besides forty _Tapuyans_, who kill’d more Venison for the _Hollanders_ than they were able to eat; and coming within two Cannons-shot of _Conayou_, he divided his Men into four Parties, that so they might Storm the four Corners of the Fort at once; which having done by swimming over the Moat, and climbing up the Walls, which were a Pikes length, they got into the Fort, in which they found eleven dead Bodies, ten Iron Guns, two Hooks, and several Chests of Sugar; and amongst other Prisoners they took the Captain _Alvares Fragoso d’ Albuquerque_. _Stackhower_ also setting Sail when _Arcisseusky_ left the Castle _Ceulen_, intending to meet him again at an appointed time before _Conayou_, was kept back by contrary Winds. After this _Arcisseusky_ set Sail to _Mongoangape_, where Rowing up the River, he took a Ketch with two hundred Chests of Sugar, as also a Carvel and a Boat, and Landed where the River bends about a Mountain, which so affrighted the _Portuguese_, that they quitted _Antonio Marino_’s Sugar-Mills. Soon after the Fleet took a Barque with Wine, and return’d to _Reciffa_. Mean while _Schuppe_ was not idle, for going up the River _Camarigibi_, he burnt divers Houses, as also on each side of the River _Alagoa_; where he also took four rich Sugar-Mills, whilest many Vessels from the _United Netherlands_ brought several Ships into the Haven of _Pernambuco_, which they had taken on the Coast of _Brasile_. [Sidenote: The Fort _Santa Margareta_ attempted by the _Hollanders_.] About the latter end of _November_ 1634. thirty two Sail, divided into two Squadrons (the first carrying in one and twenty Ships, a thousand nine hundred forty and five Soldiers, the second on eleven Ketches, four hundred and nine) under the Command of _Schuppe_, _Arcisseusky_, _Carpentier_, and _Stackhower_, weigh’d Anchor to go to _Parayba_; where _Schuppe_ Landing first with six hundred Men, fell upon the Enemy in such a manner, that he put them to flight, and forc’d them to leave a great part of their Arms, Hats and Coats behind; and it wanted little but the Governor _Antonio d’ Albuquerque_ had been taken in the pursuit: Mean while the rest of the _Hollanders_ Landed, and _Casper Ley_ march’d along a Cart-Road with three Companies directly to the Fort _Santa Margareta_, and Encamp’d himself behind a Hill, about a Musquet-shot from the Walls of the Fort: _Schuppe_ going along the Shore, found divers forsaken Works, and Intrench’d along the River on the East-side of the Castle. _Arcisseusky_ march’d on the Right-hand along the Sea-shore in view of the _Portuguese_ in Garrison. In the River lay an Isle, on which was built the Castle _Restinga_, which could receive constant Aid from the Castle _Margareta_ on the Main. [Sidenote: The Fort _Margareta_ taken by _Schuppe_.] [Sidenote: The Fort _Antonio_ taken by _Lichthart_.] _Lichthart_ going in between the Island and the Castle _Margareta_ with six well Mann’d Boats, took two Barques and a Boat behind the Island, and march’d through a Wood to _Restringa_; where he found that the Fort separated from the Island, was surrounded with Water, wherefore he withdrew into the Wood till the Water was fall’n down, and then Storm’d the Fort _Restringa_, and notwithstanding the _Portuguese_ fir’d continually upon him with two Brass Guns, he soon became Master of it, and cut off all those whom he found had born Arms; whilest _Schuppe_ fir’d upon the Fort _Margareta_ from a Platform, and also threw Granado’s into the same. _Arcisseusky_ likewise approach’d nearer and nearer with his Trenches, on which the _Portuguese_ discharged many Guns; but after the Breastworks were most of them spoil’d, the Governor, _Simon de Albuquerque_, surrendred the Fort to _Schuppe_, who permitted a hundred and fifty Men that were in Garrison there, to go to their several Dwellings up in the Countrey, the rest were Transported to other places, on promise that they would not bear Arms against the _West-India_ Company during the space of six Moneths. In the Castle the _Hollanders_ found six Brass Demi-Culverins and fifteen Drakes, besides other Ammunition, with which the Victors pursu’d their Conquest, putting themselves in a posture to go up a Creek which runs two Leagues along a River to _Parayba_, and to fall upon that City, when two _French_ Renegado’s coming from the _Northern_ Fort _Antonio_ brought information, That that Fort was guarded but by a few Men, and had but little Gun-powder, and if the _Hollanders_ would but once make a shew of Storming the same, it would soon be deliver’d to them, though for its Situation it is invincible; but _Schuppe_ suppos’d that there might be a Plot in this Information, and the rather, because he heard that the Duke of _Bagnola_ was coming thither with six hundred Men; nevertheless, to be better assur’d thereof, he sent a Drummer to demand _Antonio_: The Governor thereof, call’d _Magaglianes_ desir’d three days time to consider, which was utterly deny’d him, and he had onely leave to carry away the King’s Standard, and his Request granted, That the _Hollanders_ should make a shew of Storming the Castle, that it might not be said he had surrendred such a Fortress without a Gun being fir’d; after which _Lichthart_ went into the Castle, wondring at such a Victory; for the Fort, on which no Charges had been spar’d, lay upon an inaccessible place, and had five Brass Culverins and nineteen Iron Guns. [Sidenote: The City _Parayba_ deserted by _Bagnola_.] The _Hollanders_ encourag’d by their good Success, went the same Night up the River _Parayba_ to the Creek _Tambia Grande_; where Landing, they found all the Works empty, three Iron Guns lying dismounted on the Ground, the City _Parayba_ without People, and the Guns about the same either made useless, or sunk in the Haven. A _Hamburgher_ that had liv’d a considerable time in _Parayba_, otherwise call’d _Philippea_, inform’d the _Hollanders_, That _Bagnola_ seeing no means to defend _Parayba_, was gone to _Goyana_ with two Companies, one of _Italians_, and the other _Spaniards_, who were march’d into the Woods, after they had burnt three Ships, and two Store-houses full of Sugar, in which there were consum’d near upon three hundred Chests. Before this Design upon _Parayba_ was undertaken, the _West-India_ Company sent out four Vessels under the Command of _John Walbeek_, to the Isle _Curacao_; the Situation of which _John Otzon_ knew exactly, having been a long time a Prisoner there: _Walbeek_ getting through a narrow Mouth between several Rocks into a convenient Harbor before _Curacao_, Landed seventy five Musquetteers who were Encountred by seventy _Brasilians_ Arm’d with Clubs, which the _Spaniards_ had animated to fight, by making them half Drunk. The _Hollanders_ having march’d all over the Island, burnt the Village _Maria_, and at last agreed with the Governor _Alonso Lopes de Morla_ to leave the Isle. _Schuppe_ chang’d the Name of _Parayba_, or _Nossa Sennora das Nieves_, or _Philippea_, into _Frederick-Stadt_, in honor to the Prince of _Orange_, nam’d _Frederick Henrick_. [Sidenote: _Parayba_, or _Henrick-stadt_ describ’d.] This City hath two great Market-places, twelve Streets, and a large _Franciscan_ Cloyster, built near a Lake, and inclos’d within a Wall by a broad Bay, which the River _Parayba_ makes before the City; the Countrey about which is mountainous: In other places, especially along the River, lie many fruitful Plains, abounding in some places with the Grain _Mandihoca_, which is ground to Meal, Potato’s, Lemmons, Cabbages, Cucumbers, _Bananas_, _Cocoa_-Nuts, Ginger, _Araba_, very delicious when Preserv’d with Sugar, and _Cacious_, somewhat like Chesnuts, of which the Natives make an intoxicating Liquor. Whilest all things were put in good order at _Parayba_, Colonel _Picard_ march’d with eight Companies to the House _Validaris_, if possible, there to take the Governor _Antonio Albuquerque_ Prisoner; but he being forsaken by all the _Brasilians_ (who came back with _Picard_ and their Commander, the Jesuit _Emanuel de Morais_) absconded himself; not long before which a Proclamation had been publish’d in the Name of the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_ and the _West-India_ Company, promising great Civilities and Advantages to all the Inhabitants of _Parayba_, whether Natives or others, that would come in and submit to their Government. This Invitation was so well receiv’d, that many who were kept back so long as _Albuquerque_ appear’d, as soon as they heard of his obscuring himself, came in to the _Hollanders_, as _Duarte Gomes_, and several eminent _Portugueses_, with a considerable number of indifferent quality; as also the Inhabitants of the Province of _Rio Grande_ came to _Frederick-Stadt_, to claim the benefit of the Proclamation. [Sidenote: _Rebellino_ forced to flye from place to place.] _Arcisseusky_ and _Stackhower_ marching to _Goyana_ with seven hundred and fifty Men, took up their Quarters in the Village _Capivaribi_, lying at a River of the same Name; where all the Inhabitants of _Goyana_ being fully satisfi’d with the _Hollanders_ Proposals, own’d their Government, and fell off from the King of _Spain_. But the _Spanish_ Captain _Rebellino_, animated by the _Jesuits_ in the Village _Mosuick_, got three hundred Soldiers together, besides a considerable company of _Brasilians_, Commanded by _Camaron_, and burnt all the Sugar-Canes and _Brasile_ Wood in _Goyana_; whither _Arcisseusky_ marching, soon put them to flight, and burnt the Village _Mosuick_, with the Church and _Jesuits_ Cloyster, from whence the Enemy ran to the strange Mountain _Miritbi_, which in the rainy Season, especially when great Showers fall, makes a noise like claps of Thunder, or like great Guns. The same Wonder is observ’d of the Mountain _Pasayra_, in a Wood behind _Girgolio Barro_’s Sugar-Mills; the mystery whereof we leave to Philosophers to enquire into. _Arcisseusky_ follow’d _Rebellino_, who had ambuscado’d himself about half a League from _Mosuick_; from whence he being also driven, his Men began more and more to desert him, whilest _Schuppe_ with a considerable number of Men came to _Arcisseusky_; Encamping themselves about _Musarope_, they sent eighty Musquetteers, Commanded by Lieutenant _Metting_, to an adjacent Wood, where _Rebellino_ Quartering, Engag’d with _Metting_, till _Schuppe_ coming to his assistance, he fled to _Nazaretta_. After which the Countrey thereabouts enjoy’d the happiness of Peace. [Sidenote: The Castle _Real_ taken by _Arcisseusky_.] _Arcisseusky_ staying to settle all things in good order in _Parayba_, took up his Quarters near the Castle _Real_, about a Cannon-shot from the River _Afogados_, and a League and a half from the _Hollanders_ Fort so call’d; yet his Design was not to lay close Siege to the same, but to prevent all manner of Aid from coming to it, the rather, because he was inform’d, that there were not above sixty six hundred Cans of Meal, and sixty five Head of Cattel in the Fort, for three hundred _Portuguese_ and seven hundred _Brasilians_; to which purpose he built several Redoubts, Batteries and Platforms: after he had lay’n before it three Moneths it was surrendred upon these following Articles, _viz._ “That the Besieged should march out with lighted Matches, Bullets in their Mouths, flying Colours, and with Bag and Baggage, and be Transported either to _Tercera_ or _Madera_.” The Church Ornaments they had also leave to carry away with them, but the Guns and other Ammunition were to remain in the Fort. Hereupon the Governor _Andreas Marini_ march’d out with five hundred choice Soldiers, besides a hundred and fifty which he had out of the Countrey; and two hundred Families that dwelt about _Real_, ransom’d their Goods for 5000 _l._ In the Fort the _Hollanders_ found fifteen Brass, and five Iron Guns. Mean while _Lichthart_ set Sail with six Ships and five little Ketches, carrying five Companies; with which Landing on _Barra Grande_, he march’d two Leagues along the Shore to the Church of _St. Bento_, built on a high Hill, round about which he Encamp’d himself, and fortifi’d the same with Pallisado’s. Hither the Inhabitants of _Porto Calvo_ came in great numbers to take the Oath of Allegiance to the _West-India_ Company. [Sidenote: _Bagnola_ routed by _Lichthart_.] _Lichthart_ assisted by Captain _Cornelis Exel_’s Company, march’d directly to _Porto Calvo_, notwithstanding he had but three hundred and twenty seven Men, with which he went along a troublesom Way, up Hill and down Hill, and coming near _Porto Calvo_, was inform’d by a _Portuguese_, That the Duke _Bagnola_ possess’d a Church there full of Port-holes, with two hundred choice Men, besides a Company newly arriv’d there from _Serinhain_; and that he had a strong Fortification near the River; nevertheless _Lichthart_ marching towards him, discover’d his Forces rank’d on a steep Mountain, whither he running with his Men, forc’d _Bagnola_ to quit the Church, as also those that lay in Ambuscade near the High-way, whilest eighty _Brasilians_, some _Portugueses_, and a Company of _Neopolitans_, thought to have fall’n upon the Barques of the _Hollanders_, but seeing the _States_ Flag upon the Church, and _Bagnola_ routed, they soon Retreated. This Victory cost the _Hollanders_ but seven Men, besides eighteen wounded; for which the _Portuguese_ lost many more. The Inhabitants of _Camarigibi_, _Antonio_, and about _Porto Calvo_, accepting of the Articles propos’d in _Parayba_, took the Oath of Allegiance to the _Hollanders_. In the interim after _Arcisseusky_ had taken the Fort _Real_, and given Command thereof to _Verdoes_, he set forth with ten Companies and three hundred _Brasilians_, to joyn with _Schuppe_, who Besieg’d the Fort _Nazaretta_ near the Promontory _St. Augustine_; but the Governor _Albuquerque_ fearing he should be surpris’d, fled from thence with three hundred Men, and left _Peter Correa de Gamba_, and _Lewis Barbalho Bizerra_ in his stead. But _Schuppe_ approach’d so near with his Trenches and Granado’s, that _Correa_ inform’d of _Arcisseusky_’s coming, surrendred the Castle upon advantageous Articles. [Sidenote: _Porto Calvo_ surpris’d by _Albuquerque_.] After this Success _Schuppe_ march’d along the Shore, and _Arcisseusky_ up into the Countrey, both with intention to fall upon the Enemy in _Serinhain_. _Arcisseusky_ marching along a troublesom Way, came to _Miguel de Poyaca_ with six Companies, where the Councellor _Schotte_ had fortifi’d a Church; and somewhat farther he met with a brave _Franciscan_ Cloyster, where he was inform’d, that the Governor _Albuquerque_ had again surpris’d the Fort _Porto Calvo_; which prov’d too true; for _Schuppe_ hastening to his assistance through _Serinhain_, _Una_, and _Barro_, staid at _Furicoso_, a League from _Porto Calvo_, for _Arcisseusky_, who was coming thither with seven Companies over the deep and crooked Stream _Serinhain_; and before _Villa Foamosa_, a pleasant Village, in which stood an old _Jesuits_ Cloyster and a little Church, both their Forces joyn’d together, making up seventeen Companies of Foot, and one Troop of Horse; but they came too late: for after a long and stout Assault, and no less Resistance from the Besieged, the Place was surrendred to _Albuquerque_, who caus’d _Domingo Calabar_ to be Quarter’d; a Man not inferior for Strength and Activity to that _Milo Crotoniates_, so famous amongst the ancient _Grecians_: Amongst other proofs of his Strength it is related, that he took a Stag running full speed by the Horns, and turning its Neck, pull’d the Tongue out of its Mouth. The reason why _Albuquerque_ caus’d him to be put to that death, was because he had once joyn’d with the _Hollanders_, and done the _Portuguese_ much hurt. But _Schuppe_ and _Arcisseusky_ marching to _Porto Calvo_, to Engage with _Albuquerque_, who was eight hundred _Portuguese_ and a thousand _Brasilians_ strong, found the Place ruin’d, and about a hundred _Hollanders_ unbury’d, and _Albuquerque_ march’d away, driving the Inhabitants about _Porto Calvo_ before him, with three hundred Prisoners: The _Hollanders_ following him, built a Fort at _Praipuera_, to prevent the _Portuguese_ from returning to _Porto Calvo_. _Schuppe_ also demanded three Companies more to supply the places of the sick and slain Men, as also those who were so miserably plagued by the _Bicios_, that they were not able to go. These _Bicios_ are little Animals, which creeping in at the Pores, cause an insufferable pain. _Schuppe_’s Request was the sooner granted, because the Councel at _Reciffa_ judg’d it convenient to pull down the Forts _Real_ and _Nazaretta_, being already much decay’d and unserviceable, and that those who were in Garrison in them, should Encamp in the Fields. _Schuppe_ had long before this time fall’n upon the Enemy in the _Afogados_, but that he wanted Provisions, and little Vessels, which were requir’d for that Expedition. But marching up into the Countrey, he left the Command to _Arcisseusky_, who much forwarded the building of the Fort on _Paripuera_. [Illustration: OBSIDIO ET EXPUGNATIO PORTUS CALVI] [Sidenote: A great Fleet of _Spaniards_ appears before _Reciffa_.] The Year 1635. being almost expir’d, one Morning about Day-break thirty two Sail were seen to Steer directly towards _Reciffa_; two Ships of an extraordinary bigness were follow’d by nine Gallions, and these by the rest of the Fleet, consisting of Pinks, Carvels, and Barques; all which approaching, were known to be _Spaniards_, which struck no small amazement to the Inhabitants of _Reciffa_, most of their Ships being Cruising abroad before the Coast of _Brasile_ and their Men a great distance off in the Field; onely five Ships fitted for an Engagement being at Anchor, and five more deeply laden: Mean while the _Spanish_ Admiral approach’d within a Cannon-shot of the _Fame_ Ketch, discharg’d one Gun, and stood off to Sea again, being inform’d that _Real_ and _Nazaretta_ were taken by the _Hollanders_. On the other side, all the Places in their possession had notice of this Fleet, which _Lichthart_ follow’d with six Ships and two Ketches, carrying two Companies of Soldiers, besides Seamen, and keeping just within sight of them, saw them at last come to an Anchor before _Paripuera_ (where a part of the _Dutch_ Forces lay under the Command of _Arcisseusky_,) and make preparation to Land their Men: Whereupon _Lichthart_ Landed also, with the Councellor _Carpentier_, and joyning with _Arcisseusky_, took up a valiant Resolution, to Sail close up to the _Spanish_ Fleet with his eight Ships, whilest _Arcisseusky_ march’d in the Night with six hundred Men to _Jaragoa_, to prevent the Enemy’s Landing; but having a _Portuguese_ for his Guide, was led a wrong Way; wherefore returning, he secur’d the Way to _Paripuera_, whilest the _Portuguese_ Inhabitants, contrary to their Oath, refused to carry or bring Provisions to the _Dutch_ Forces, and joyning together combin’d with the _Spanish_ Seamen, and kill’d all the _Hollanders_ which they could meet either on the High-ways, or in their Houses, making use of the _Negro_’s to carry the _Spaniards_ what Intelligence they could give them of the _Hollanders_ Proceedings: Wherefore they thought it the best way to be rid of such Villains, to destroy them all that dwelt in the Countrey between _Paripuera_ and _Porto Calvo_, and for the space of ten Leagues burnt all their Sugar-Canes in the Fields, their Mills and Houses. _Arcisseusky_ caus’d Edicts to be put upon every Church Door, That all the Inhabitants should remove from _Porto Calvo_, where the _Dutch_ Army was to Encamp, to keep them from the _Spanish_ Oppression. That Summer having been so dry, that no man ever remembred the like, had dry’d up all the Morasses, so that the _Spaniards_ marching over them and high Mountains, got a back Way into the Countrey. In the mean time _John Walbeck_ made a Fort with five Bulwarks on the Island _Curacao_, near the Haven _Santa Cruz_. [Sidenote: _Houte-been_ taken by _Dunkirkers_.] _Houte-been_ also ran with two Ketches, the _Otter_ and _Brack_, to Anchor before _Curacao_, and from thence to the Haven _St. Jago de Cuba_, where the Watch made no Alarm, because he carry’d _Burgundy_ Colours, by which also several others, both _Portuguese_ and _Spaniards_ were deceiv’d. Not long after he burnt one Barque with _Tortoises_, sunk another, and set a third a Drift; after which having refresh’d at _Jamaica_, he Engag’d with several _Spanish_ Men of War and took them, besides a great number of Prizes, in one of which he found such abundance of Copper, Indigo, Money, _Canaster_, Tobacco, and Piece-Goods, that the two Ketches were not able to load the same; but at last Steering for _Holland_, he was set upon by seven _Dunkirkers_, Commanded by _Colaert_, and after long and stout resistance was taken. Captain _Abraham Roosendael_ setting Sail from the _Texel_, met with a Frigat carrying forty six Chests full of _Ryals of Eight_, being in number eighty six thousand, design’d to pay the Forces at _Porto Rico_; besides a quantity of Plate, which amounted to a considerable sum of Money; with all which he arriv’d safe in his desired Port. _Arcisseusky_ fortifi’d himself along the crooked River _Paripuera_, full of Crocodiles, which hurt none, unless provok’d. This River runs five Leagues to the Northward of _Punta de Jaragoa_, where the _Spanish_ Forces Landed. Southward from _Jaragoa_ lie the _Alagoas del Nort_ and _Zul_, distinguish’d by a high Tract of Land; where the _Spanish_ General _Lewis Rochas Borgia_ left his Guns and a thousand Men, under the Command of the Duke _Bagnola_, whilest with three times as many more he went to _Porto Calvo_ to be there before the time which the _Hollanders_ had in their Edicts set the Inhabitants for their removal. [Illustration: ALAGOA AD AUSTRUM] [Sidenote: _Borgia_’s Army defeated by _Arcisseusky_ and himself slain.] _Arcisseusky_ had by this time built on the North part of the Mouth of _Paripuera_ a Redoubt like a Castle, out of the middle whereof rose a woodden Tower, fill’d with Earth, and secur’d by a Half-Moon; on one side whereof he lay Encamp’d with fifteen Companies. On the South side of the River stood also two strong Forts. _Arcisseusky_ having not the least thought that _Borgia_ would come over the Mountains, and through inaccessible Woods and Morasses, a back Way into _Porto Calvo_, receiv’d news on the thirteenth of _January_ 1636. by a Renegade _Negro_, that the _Spanish_ Army, consisting of three thousand Men, were come to _Rodrigo de Barros_ his Sugar-Mills, about five Leagues from _Paripuera_, and was suddenly expected to fall upon Colonel _Schuppe_ in _Porto Calvo_; whereupon _Arcisseusky_ immediately set forth with twelve hundred Men and two Field-pieces, burnt all the Houses, Sugar-Mills and Canes he could meet with. Mean while _Borgia_ (upon whose Approach _Schuppe_ had left _Porto Calvo_) observing by the Smoak in the Countrey, that _Arcisseusky_ had put his Edicts in Execution, leaving a considerable Garrison in _Porto Calvo_, went to meet _Arcisseusky_ with the choicest Men. _Arcisseusky_ being got between _Camarigibi_ and _Porto Calvo_, without having any notice of the Enemy’s being so near, and his Forlorn being unawares Engag’d, and running back in great disorder, drew up his Men into a posture of Defence about a Musquet-shot from the Enemy; but the darkness of the Night made a great confusion in both Armies, being as it were mingled pell-mell one with another. _Arcisseusky_ was much inferior in number to the _Spaniards_, but considering it was impossible to march back, in regard the Enemy was as well behind them as before, and that thousands of _Brasilians_ lay watching for them in the Woods, in case they should be dispers’d, he saw there was no way but to stand to the hazard of Battel. About Day-break both Armies stood an hour looking upon one another; the place where they stood being surrounded with Woods and deep Valleys. _Borgia_ drew out his Men on a Hill, overgrown with Bushes. _Arcisseusky_ had drawn out his Men on somewhat a lower Ground. _Borgia_ at last sent some of his Musquetteers down the Hill, who fir’d with a full Volley upon the _Dutch_, whilest _Arcisseusky_ onely discharg’d a Field-piece at a Tree, under which _Borgia_ stood to take a view of the _Hollanders_ Forces; upon the firing of which Gun _Borgia_ began to come down the Hill with all his Army, against whom _Arcisseusky_ drew out his first and second Division, whilest Captain _Vanden Brande_ led his Companies within two Pikes length from the Enemy, before he discharg’d, which was no sooner done, but contrary to Order they broke into the left Wing of _Borgia_’s Army, and put his Musquetteers to flight, who were soon follow’d by the whole _Spanish_ Army, some running into the Woods, others into the Morasses, but most of them along the narrow Way which leads to _Porto Calvo_. Among the Slain was _Borgia_ himself, who was Descended from the greatest Families of the Dukes of _Lerma_ and _Borgia_; he was about forty eight years of Age, and had serv’d the _Spanish_ King a considerable time in the _Netherlands_. This Victory cost the _Hollanders_ about forty Men, besides as many more wounded. Amongst the _Spanish_ Prisoners was a _Neapolitan_ Gentleman, call’d _Hector de la Calce_, who upon Examination inform’d the _Hollanders_, That with the last _Spanish_ Fleet there Landed two thousand four hundred Men in _Alagoa_, with twenty Brass Field-pieces, abundance of Wheelbarrows, Spades and Pick-axes, which cost in _Portugal_ eight hundred thousand _Crusado_’s; with which great warlike Preparations _Borgia_ made no doubt to have got fast footing in the Countrey, and to have cut off all manner of Assistance from the _Hollanders_; That the _Spanish_ King rais’d a great many Men both in _Spain_, _Italy_, and _Germany_, that with the first opportunity he might fit out a Fleet, which was to be conducted by four thousand two hundred Seamen, to whom the _Castilians_ were to add eight thousand five hundred Soldiers and two hundred Seamen, and the _Portuguese_ the like number, to serve ashore, and to drive all Strangers out of _Brasile_; That this Design had long since been put in Execution, had not the _Albuquerquers_ continually deceiv’d the King of _Spain_, under pretence that _Brasile_ was in no danger; That _Albuquerque_ would be forc’d to resign up the Interest which he had in _Brasile_, for which the King would give him a Dukedom in _Portugal_ in exchange. _Schuppe_ and _Arcisseusky_ judging it no way convenient to fall upon the Enemy in _Porto Calvo_, Garrison’d _Paripuera_ with four hundred Men, under the Command of the Captains _Day_ and _Philip Andrews_, whom they furnish’d with Provisions for five Moneths, and left Order to defend the Countrey against the Incursions of the Enemy; which done, they went aboard with eleven hundred Men, and took in two Companies of _Brasilians_ at _Barra Grande_; with whom Landing behind the Isle _Alexio_, they came to _Serinhain_ before Day-light, and found all the Inhabitants fled into the Woods, fearing they would take Revenge on them for murdering of their Sick which they had left there. They were no sooner Encamp’d here, but they receiv’d Information from _John Talibon_, that the _Spanish_ Army intended to Besiege the Redoubt in _Barra Grande_, which therefore, as lying on an ill place, and not able to resist long, they flighted: After which being furnish’d with Provisions out of some Ketches Commanded by the Admiral _Lichthart_, they return’d, with Intentions to take up their Quarters in _Serinhain_ during the Winter Season, whilest the Enemy lay in _Cockau_, on one side of _Una_ and _Serinhain_, and kept private Correspondence with some of the _Portuguese_ that had taken the Oath of Allegiance to the _Hollanders_; but _Arcisseusky_ fell so fiercely upon them, that they all fled to _Porto Calvo_, and took three Monks Prisoners, who had been the chief Authors of this private Correspondence. Soon after twenty eight Ships arriving at _Reciffa_, brought fresh Supplies of Men thither from the _Maes_ and _Zealand_, with Ammunition and Provisions, which was much wanted; also two Councellors, _Henrick Schild_ and _Paulus Serooskerken_. This Fleet was scarce got in, when in the Evening news was brought, that eight hundred _Spaniards_ were broke in through _Poyuca_, and had taken _John Paez Baretto_’s Sugar-Mill, and destroy’d all they came at; but that the _Hollanders_ defending the Church with great Valor, obtain’d Quarter upon the surrendring of it. [Sidenote: The _Spaniards_ under _Rebellino_ routed by _Stackhower_ and _Litchthart_.] This raging Army, led by Colonel _Rebellino_ and _Madurera_, march’d to _Laurenzo_ and _Massiapi_, whither there resorted daily more Men to them, which put the Council at _Reciffa_ to a great Dilemma, foreseeing, that if they should send for _Schuppe_ from _Serinhain_, the Enemy from _Una_ and _Porto Calvo_ would hem him in, neither had they sufficient Forces to withstand _Rebellino_; therefore it was judg’d convenient to send to _Arcisseusky_ to joyn with _Schuppe_’s Army, that they might both unawares fall upon the Enemy. In the interim a hundred and twenty _Tapuyans_, sent by _Janduy_, came to _Reciffa_, with information that _Janduy_ was coming himself, with several other neighboring Kings, to their Assistance. _Schuppe_, according to the Councels Order, march’d in the Night through the Sugar-Mills of _Rio Formoso_, rested the next day in the Valley _Orekinda_, and guarded all the Avenues: Whilest he went about to Storm the Village _Una_, _Mansveld_ was to Engage with a hundred _Spaniards_ on one side of _Iletta_’s Sugar-Mills, and _Arcisseusky_ was to fall upon the Village; whither marching early in the Morning, they saw onely a few of the Inhabitants, the Enemy being gone with his Forces over to _Manbucava_, nor could they pass any farther, finding the River too deep to wade through: But it had like to have gone worse with _Stackhower_ and _Litchthart_, who with _Maulpas_ making twelve hundred Men, were surpris’d by _Rebellino_, rushing forth of an Ambuscade near _Laurenzo_, where _Maulpas_ receiving a Wound dy’d of the same. This rough Entertainment at first much daunted the _Hollanders_; but regaining their Courage, they press’d upon the _Spanish_ Army in such a manner, that _Rebellino_ being wounded in his Shoulder, fled in great disorder through the Sugar-Fields to _Porto Calvo_, and of fifteen hundred Men sav’d not above four hundred, the rest being either kill’d, or scatter’d up and down the Countrey; twelve taken _Hollanders_ were also released by this means. The _Portuguese_ Design on _Paripuera_ also succeeded not much better. [Sidenote: _Cameron_ put to flight by _Arcisseusky_.] _Arcisseusky_ receiving Letters of Advice from the Councellor _Serooskerken_, that _Camaron_ lay Encamp’d with fifteen hundred Men about the Fortress _Capavaribi_ in _Goyana_, and that the Besieged could not hold out above four days longer, and that the Enemy had also taken two Barques full of Provisions and Ammunition, sent thither to relieve the Besieged, march’d with excessive toyl through uncouth and intricate Ways, which were rendred unpassable by the great Rains that had lately fall’n, and came about an hour after Sun-set to _Capavaribi_; from whence _Camaron_ being fled two hours before, had left Ammunition in three Carriages, secur’d from small Shot by thick Planks, which were drawn close under the Walls; also a _Burgundian_ Flag, two Field-pieces, and two Barques which he had taken with Provisions. The Enemy fled to _Tapiserica_, and from thence to _Terra Nova_. Whilest _Arcisseusky_ view’d the Works, and his Men stood in good order, great numbers of _Brasilians_ Sally’d out of the Redoubt, took the Provisions which _Camaron_ had left, spread themselves up in the Countrey, robb’d the _Portuguese_ Houses, and kill’d the People. As soon as _Arcisseusky_ had put all things in good order, he left the _Brasilians_ in _Goyana_ under the Command of the Councellor _Eyssens_, and pursu’d the fled Enemy, notwithstanding there fell great Showers of Rain, rested a little in the deserted Village _Tapiserica_, formerly inhabited by three thousand People, who possess’d several fair Structures, brave Walks, a large _Jesuits_ Cloyster, and a Church. The sweet Water and pleasant Pastures invited the _Hollanders_ to stay here a Night. The next Morning marching forward to _Terra Firma_, they saw a strong Fortification newly rais’d, but without People, and heard the Enemy’s Sentinels fire; whereupon _Arcisseusky_ appointing part of the Army to follow at a distance, march’d before with the rest, and being fir’d upon from an Ambuscade by _Camaron_’s Party, he order’d Captain _Talibon_ to press in upon the Ambuscade; but because it was perform’d in great disorder, he fell in himself on the right-hand of the Enemy, whilest _Lichthart_’s second Division stood still; which so affrighted the Enemy, that without making the least resistance he fled into the Woods, leaving many dead behind him. The next day Captain _Bohart_’s Party tracking the flying Enemy, fell in amongst them, and gave them a total Rout. _Arcisseusky_ resolv’d to stay some time in _Terra Firma_ to wait for _Camaron_, but he not appearing, he laid waste the Countrey thereabouts. [Sidenote: _Eyssens_: slain in a great Fight with _Rebellino_.] _Rebellino_ and _Lewis de Sosa_ falling upon the Councellor _Eyssens_, Governor of _Parayba_, routed him, and set fire on the Sugar-Mills belonging to _Emanuel Pirez_, which forc’d them with their Swords in their Hands to break through Flame and Smoak upon the Enemy, who kill’d nine of them upon the Spot (amongst whom _Eyssens_ and his Secretary) the rest being either taken or fled. [Sidenote: _Rebellino_ put to flight by _Arcisseusky_.] Immediately after _Arcisseusky_ being inform’d by two Prisoners, that the _Spanish_ Forces Commanded by _Sosa_, _Dias_, and _Rebellino_, were all joyn’d together in the Wood _Antonio_, where _Camaron_ was also expected, he march’d away presently with half his Army, and as soon as the Captains _Metting_ and _Tourlon_, whom he commanded to follow him the next day, were come up to him, he fell upon the Enemy, who lay on a Hill, at whose Foot was a deep Valley, through which he climb’d to the top; which valorous Attempt so amaz’d the _Spaniards_, that without firing a Gun they fled into the Wood: After which _Metting_ and _Tourlon_ went back to _Laurenzo_; and _Arcisseusky_ destroy’d the _Rossas_, of which the _Farinha_ is made, that so by scarcity of Provisions he might prevent the Enemy from so often joyning together in Parties: In the mean time ten Ships from _Holland_ arriv’d with fresh Forces, Ammunition, Provisions, and two taken Prizes, at _Reciffa_. [Sidenote: Several Prizes taken by _Houte-been_ after his Releasement.] [Sidenote: An unlucky Accident.] _Houte-been_ being releas’d from his Imprisonment in _Dunkirk_, set Sail from _Holland_ with three Ships, and took ten Iron Guns out of one Ship, and several Pipes of Wine out of another before _Matanca_; after that a _Tartan_ from _Havana_, two Frigats with Meal, one full of Wood with two Guns, two Barques carrying _Bananas_, a rich laden Pink, two Ships with Hides, and one with Sugar. Near the Island _Baru_ he heard several great Guns shoot off, whereupon making thither, he found the _Zealand_ Privateer _Martman_ Engag’d with a Ketch carrying ten Brass and six Iron Guns, which was run ashore; whereupon _Houte-been_ went to his assistance with a well Mann’d Boat; which the _Spaniards_ seeing, set fire on their Ketch and fled; but the Flame having onely hurt the Stern, fifty Men were order’d to get her afloat, who having begun to unlade the Tobacco, and to take out the Brass Guns, the Gun-Room took fire, and blew up both Men and Goods; of which twenty four being sadly hurt, dy’d, the rest escaping miraculously. Not long after _Houte-been_ took a Ship with Hides, fraighted the _Alcmaer_ Pink with his Prizes for the _Texel_, ran close by _Carthagena_, and kept a considerable time in sight of the Plate-Fleet, of which he carry’d one of the heaviest Sailers away with him; Being thus enrich’d, he return’d home. [Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ sent by the _United States_ to govern _Brasile_.] Whilest Businesses were carry’d on after this manner both by Land and Sea in _Brasile_, the _West-India_ Company resolv’d to send some Person of Quality thither as President or supream Governor; and after no long Consultation who should be the Person, _Grave Maurice_ of _Nassaw_ was pitch’d upon, as being not only eminent for his Noble Alliance by Marriage to Emperors and Kings, but also for his excellent skill in Martial Affairs, the proofs whereof were known to all Men, as his marching to the _Paltz_ against _Spinola_, his being in the great Siege of _Grol_, _Hertogen-Bosch_, _Maestricht_, _Venlo_, _Rhynberk_, and _Schenkenschans_, at all which he receiv’d great Honor; all which consider’d, they made him chief Governor of _Brasile_, giving him a Commission Sign’d by the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_ and _West-India_ Company, to Govern with absolute Power, as well in Civil as Martial Affairs, to the best advantage of that _State_. At first they resolv’d to send a Fleet of thirty two Sail thither, but they afterwards reduc’d that number to twelve, which they Mann’d with two thousand seven hundred Men. _Grave Maurice_ set Sail on the twenty fifth of _October_ 1636. onely with four Sail, whereof the Admiral Ship call’d _The Zutfen_, carry’d but three hundred and fifty Men: about the _Sorlings_ they met with blustering Weather, insomuch that the Fleet was forc’d to put in at _Falmouth_, and after forty days stay there, weigh’d Anchor, and Steer’d for _Cape Verd_, and refresh’d at the Isle of _May_, famous for Salt-pans, and inhabited by a few _Negro_’s, and banish’d _Portugueses_. [Sidenote: He is joyfully receiv’d at _Reciffa_.] On the twenty third of _January_ 1637. _Grave Maurice_ arriving at _Reciffa_, was by every one receiv’d with great joy; as also _Adriaen vander Dussen_: and soon after _Matthias van Ceulen_, _Servaes Carpentier_, and _John Gysseling_, were chosen to be of his Privy Council; whose first Work was exactly to know their Forces, which were either Inhabitants that were to guard Towns and Fortresses, or Soldiers that march’d into the Field, two thousand six hundred whereof were appointed to defend _Reciffa_, the _Afogados_, the Promontory _St. Augustine_, _Tamarica_, and _Parayba_: the greatest Party, which lay in the Field, consisted of two thousand nine hundred Men, and another lesser Party of six hundred; which last flying Regiment was to be continually employ’d to make work for the Enemy. They also took an Account of what Provision and Ammunition they had in store, and found that there was want of both, especially of Match. Next he enquir’d after the Enemy’s Condition and Power. [Sidenote: He marches against the _Portugueses_.] [Sidenote: _Povacon_ taken by the _Hollanders_.] From _Porto Calvo_ the _Portuguese_ made continual Sallies out into the Countrey, which they spoil’d and pillag’d, insomuch that the _Brasilians_ being oppress’d by them, deserted their Villages, and came for refuge to the _Hollanders_. The Garrison in _Serinhain_ was also much too weak to withstand the Incursions of the Enemy, the rather, because the _Portuguese_ came along private, and to the _Hollanders_ unknown Ways. All which _Grave Maurice_ considering, caus’d a Fast-day to be proclaim’d, on which they desir’d Gods assistance in the carrying on of their Designs. After which he march’d with the Army to _Serinhain_, from thence cross the River _Una_ to _Barra Grande_, and thence to meet with _Bagnola_, who though he was four thousand Men strong, besides _Negro_’s and _Brasilians_, had stopt up all the Ways with fell’d Trees, and fortifi’d others. On a Mountain, a League from _Porto Calvo_, _Bagnola_ kept his Station. At the foot of the Mountain flow’d a Brook, whose Shore was overgrown with Rice and young Trees, before which lay a high Bank; opposite to which _Grave Maurice_ Encamp’d himself towards the Evening, with intentions to fall upon him the next Morning, notwithstanding his Army consisted not of above fifteen hundred Men, of which there were six hundred _Brasilians_. _Grave Maurice_’s Guard marching before were follow’d by _Schuppe_ and _Arcisseusky_, and they by _Lichthart_, whose Men were all Seamen; all of them firing their Guns amaz’d the Enemy, whilest two Companies of _Brasilians_, and three of _Hollanders_ crept through the overgrown part on the right-hand of the Mountain, and as many more on the left, fell unawares upon him; but _Maurice_’s Guard Engaging with a thousand _Portugueses_, ran through the Water up against the Works with such undaunted Courage, that _Bagnola_ Retreated, leaving four hundred Men slain, besides three Brass Guns, and a great number of Prisoners; those which escap’d fled to _Porto Calvo_: But _Bagnola_ fearing to be Besieged there, left _Povacon_, which Castle, built on one side of _Porto Calvo_, lies twenty five Leagues from _Reciffa_, on a Plain, partly surrounded with Mountains and Pastures. The River _Porto Calvo_ runs so crooked, that it almost surrounds the Castle and Town. The Countrey hereabouts is full of Pools. Two Forts, each built on a Hill near _Povacon_, _Bagnola_ had caus’d to be undermin’d and fill’d up with Gun-powder; but they taking fire, were blown up before the _Hollanders_ came thither, who found them smoaking, and lying like a heap of Rubbish. _Maurice_ marching forward, Besieg’d _Povacon_; and Encamping himself below the Hill where one of the Forts had stood, he rais’d a Redoubt, and with a Trench approach’d the Moat. Whilest _Schuppe_ lay along the Town from the Church, _Lichthart_ made a Battery to the North, and somewhat farther _Arcisseusky_ another; then firing from four Batteries on _Povacon_, the Besieged answer’d them again from their Walls, and on the thirteenth day the Governor _Michael Giberton_ surrendred the Castle upon honorable Articles: for those in Garrison being _Italians_, _Portugueses_, and _Castilians_, to the number of five hundred, besides the Wounded and Sick, were to be Transported to _Tercera_. _Maurice_ entring the Castle, took two and twenty Brass, and five Iron Guns, four Mortar-pieces, a great many Bullets, Matches, Gun-powder, and other Ammunition, this being the King of _Spain_’s Magazine. Near _Moribeca_, and before _St. Laurenzo_, the Enemy receiv’d a shrew’d Repulse by the flying Regiment, led by _Stackhower_; but Lieutenant _Helmich_ obtain’d special Honor herein. _Grave Maurice_ after these Exploits took Shipping in _Barra Grande_, at a great Inlet near _Porto Calvo_, and Landed again at the Promontory _Sergoa_, from whence he pursu’d the Enemy to the River _Francisco_; the Inhabitants about which desir’d, and obtain’d free Conduct. _Bagnola_ lay on the other side of the River _Francisco_, in the Town _Openeda_; wherefore _Schuppe_, who was sent to the _Afogados_ to be near the Enemy, was afterwards commanded to go to _Openeda_ to secure _Grave Maurice_’s Passage over thither; but he coming thither after him, _Maurice_ cross’d to the Shore on which _Openeda_ lay with Boats, and got great Booty; and the more, because the Natives had not secur’d any thing, _Bagnola_ assuring them that the Castle _Povacon_ could endure at least a Siege of four Moneths. _Openeda_ belong’d properly to the Lord _Melchior Albes_. Near the Town rose a stonie Rock out of the deep River _Francisco_, eighty Foot high; from which Rock there jutted out like Redoubts five Points, and it was call’d _Maurice Castle_. Along the Shore of the fore-mention’d Stream lay several very pleasant Isles. _Bagnola_ escaping privately from hence, was follow’d by his Men kneeling on floating pieces of Timber, which with Sticks they Row’d over to the Northern Shore, notwithstanding the Stream glides so swift, and is so broad, that a six-pound Bullet cannot be shot over the same; at the Mouth thereof _Maurice_ built another Castle. A League from his Camp seven hundred _Tapuyans_ (a great salvage and strong People, whose Language the _Portuguese_, _Brasilians_, and _Tapuyans_ that belong’d to _Jandui_, could not understand) had Ambuscado’d themselves, and with signs and motions of their Bodies they gave the _Hollanders_ to understand, that they would kill the _Portuguese_ if they offer’d to cross the Rivers. [Illustration] _Maurice_ advising _Prince Frederick Henrick_ of his Transactions, desir’d that he would send over Planters thither, whether they were banish’d _Germans_ or Vagabonds, out of their Houses of Correction; for without them the fruitful Countrey of _Brasile_ would render but a slender Account to the _West-India_ Company, nor be able to prevent the Invasions of the _Spaniards_. [Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ begins his Government with the making of good Laws.] The fruitfulness of this Tract of Land was not inferior to any Countrey in the whole World, Cattel grazing up and down in Herds of five, six, and seven thousand. Moreover, _Maurice_ advis’d them about the scarcity of Provisions, without which they were not able to maintain War. He also setled the Traders in a good Order, dividing all those free People which bore no Offices, into four Companies, under Captains, Ensigns, and Lieutenants. The Customs and Tributes were Farm’d, Marriages were order’d to be perform’d by the _Netherland_ Priests, the Jews had leave not to Watch on their Sabbath, all manner of Debosheries were strictly forbid from being acted on the Lords-Day, and Punishments ordain’d for Drunkards and other Deboshees; several Schools were also erected for Youth, and for the instruction of the _Brasilians_ in the _Christian_ Religion; and lastly, it was permitted to any that would, to build in the ruin’d City _Olinda_, or else to repair those Houses that were fall’n to ruine. Some of the _Portugueses_ fill’d _Maurice_ his Ears with a Report of the Silver-Mines at _Couhaou_, _Copaou_, _Terra Nova_, and about _Cape St. Augustine_; but he not regarding them, plac’d Sheriffs over the Villages, and Overseers over the Alms-houses and Hospitals, issuing out Orders also for the delivering of the Provisions, which being very scarce, every Man had a certain Allowance, that so it might last the longer; but when in this Distribution the meaner sort began to be scanted, the Peoples Complaints were such, that an Insurrection was like to ensue, if not carefully and speedily prevented: whereupon the decay’d and deserted Sugar-Mills of the _Portugueses_ were put to Sale, and sold some for three, others for six and seven thousand Pound, insomuch that the _West-India_ Company got above 200000 _l._ for them all. Soon after they fortifi’d their Castles and other strong Holds, and broke down those that were judg’d useless. The _Brasilians_ obtain’d liberty also to inhabit their Villages and till their Land, that they might make Provision for themselves, and not oppress the Planters that liv’d near them. The _Portuguese_ that had submitted themselves to the Government of the _Hollanders_, had free leave granted them to exercise the _Roman-Catholick_ Religion, onely they were not to send for any Priests from _St. Salvador_, which if they did, they should be dealt with as Plotters of Murders and Treasons; they had liberty also to re-build their Houses in _Olinda_, paying Tribute with the _Hollanders_: Moreover, they were promis’d that they should live free from all Oppressions of the _Hollanders_. There was also order taken about paying the tenth part of the Sugar and _Farinha_. The Income also of Fishing and Fowling, amounted to a considerable sum of Money. And to prevent deceit in Trade, Measures and Weights were made according to those of _Amsterdam_. For the Converting of _Pagans_, _Jews_, and _Roman_ Catholicks, able Teachers were sent into the Countrey to promulgate the Gospel. [Illustration] About this time there went a Report, as if the _West-India_ Company were inclin’d to remove their Seat from _Reciffa_ to the Island _Tamarica_; but _Maurice_ advising them that it would not be so convenient for them, they chang’d their Resolution. [Sidenote: _Isleos_ taken by _Lichthart_.] Whilest _Lichthart_ Cruis’d a considerable time before the Haven _Todos los Sanctos_, he Crain’d his Ship in the Bay of _Camaniu_, took the Town _Isleos_, with a hundred and fifty Men. In the Town, which is built on a Promontory, he took but little Booty, and sav’d the Houses, which were built most of Stone, as also the four Churches and _Jesuits_ Cloyster, and return’d to _Reciffa_. [Sidenote: Colonel _Latan_ slain.] About this time the invincible Castle _Mina_, afterwards call’d _St. Joris_, was taken by the _Hollanders_, upon the Advice of _Nicholas van Yperen_, Commander of _Guinee_, who sent word to _Grave Maurice_, that the said Castle might easily be conquer’d, if any Forces could be sent him from _Reciffa_: Whereupon _Maurice_ immediately sent _John Coin_ thither with nine Ships, which set Sail on the twenty fifth of _June_, _Anno 1637._ who in the Road _Commendo_ joining with _Yperen_, soon after he was set down before it, and was preparing to Storm, had it surrendred to him upon Terms no less advantageous to the _Hollanders_, than dishonorable to the Besieged, yet not without the loss of many Men; for in their March thither they were fiercely set upon by the _Negro_’s inhabiting the Village near the Castle; in which Conflict Colonel _Latan_ amongst others was slain. The Fort might very well have endur’d a longer Siege, it being surrounded with double Moats, each twenty five Foot deep, and high Bulwarks, which could not be undermin’d because of the Rocky Ground on which they were built; and to make it yet more stronger, _Coin_ after he had taken it rais’d a Fort on the Hill, from whence he had fir’d on the Castle, in which he found thirty Brass Demi-Culverins; and leaving _Walraeven Malburg_ as Governor, he return’d to _Reciffa_. During these Proceedings of the _Dutch_ in _Guinee_, the Duke of _Bagnola_ ransack’d the Countrey about _Seregippa del Rey_; _Maurice_ not able to go himself, having had a Feaver three Moneths, sent _Schuppe_ and _Gyseling_ with two thousand three hundred Soldiers, four hundred _Brasilians_, and two hundred and fifty Seamen, whilest _Lichthart_ Steer’d to _Todos los Sanctos_, that so he might draw the Enemy down to the Sea-Coast. _Bagnola_ flying to _Terra Gracia d’ Avila_, _Schuppe_ demolish’d the Town _Seregippa_, the Sugar-Mills, and all manner of Fruit-Trees, and march’d with incredible speed to the Stream _Francisco_; where Encamping on the Southern Shore, he drove three thousand Head of Cattel before him, that so he might starve the Enemy. [Sidenote: The _Brasilians_ offer their assistance to the _Dutch_ for the taking the Fort _Siara_.] In the interim the _Brasilians_ in _Siara_ desir’d Aid against the _Portuguese_, offering, That if the _Hollanders_ could conquer the Fort there, they would soon destroy all the _Portuguese_; that the Charges of the Siege might easily be made good, the Countrey producing abundance of Amber-greece, Crystal, Cotton, Pearls, Salt, and other Merchandise. In confirmation of this their Resolution, the _Brasilians_ left two eminent Persons Children of _Siara_ in _Reciffa_: Whereupon _George Garstman_ being sent thither, was no sooner Landed, but he made his Arrival known to the _Brasilian_ Governor _Algodoi_; who came to meet him with two hundred Men, bearing white Flags in token of Peace: Thus assisted, he set upon _Siara_, which is a square Fort, built at the foot of a Hill, hath within its Walls six Houses, two Redoubts full of Port-holes, one on the North, and the other on the South, jutting half way out from the Wall; as also two Gates, secur’d with large Portcullises: without the Fort appears the Governor’s House, about which were several Huts for _Portugueses_. This Lordship, already spoken of, is reckon’d amongst the Northern parts of _Brasile_, and hath onely twelve Leagues in circumference. The Haven before the Castle, which the River _Hacu_ makes, is of little consequence: The Ground in some places rises with high Mountains, in others, especially on one side, it is overgrown with Wood: hath also several brave Pastures, especially along the River. [Sidenote: The Fort taken by _Garstman_.] _Garstman_ approaching the Castle _Siara_, found little resistance, so that he took it with small expence of Blood, most of the _Portuguese_ being taken Prisoners, a few onely escaping by flight. After this _Grave Maurice_ took great care of the Civil Affairs, building a Guild-Hall at his own Cost and Charge; sent all manner of Minerals, digg’d out of the _Brasilian_ Mines, to the _Netherlands_; laid great Penalties on those that stole the Custom of Goods, and punish’d with Death Murders, Robberies, and such like Capital Offences, besides several wholsom Laws relating both to the Civil and Ecclesiastical Government; and as soon as he was recover’d from his tedious Sickness, he march’d up into the Countrey to the Rivers _Grande_ and _Parayba_, to take care to furnish the Forts with Provision and Ammunition. Near the Castle _Ceulen_ he was receiv’d by the _Tapuyan_ Agents, and Presented by them with Bowes, Arrows, and brave Ostrich Feathers, us’d by them when they go to the Wars: in return for which they receiv’d Linnen Shirts, Knives, Shells, Bugles, Fishhooks, and Nails. _Maurice_ caus’d a deeper and wider Moat to be digg’d about the decay’d Castle _Cabo Dello_, rais’d the Works, and call’d it by the Name of his Sister _Margareta_; he also pull’d down the Fort _Antonio_, keeping onely a Tower to defend the High-way. _Restringa_ was likewise strengthned with Pallisado’s, and the Cloyster near the Town _Parayba_ fortifi’d against an Assault, and _Elias Harkmans_ made Governor of the same. Whilest these things were transacted on the Land, Captain _Schuppe_ at Sea Engaging alone between _Todos los Sanctos_ and _Terre Garcie d’ Avila_ with three _Spanish_ Ships, drove one of them aground, and brought another away with him to _Reciffa_. The Letters found in the taken Vessel made mention, that in the River of _Lisbon_ lay ten Galleys, and twenty more before _Cales_, to which were to joyn thirty Pinks; which Fleet some suppos’d was coming for _Brasile_; others, that it was onely a Plot of the King of _Spain_ to get Money from his Subjects, according to the Custom of several other Princes. Hereupon _Maurice_ wrote to the _West-India_ Company, that they would Rig out a Fleet with all possible speed, which might fall upon the fore-mention’d _Spanish_ Fleet, and fetch those Sugars which lay ready in _Brasile_ to be Laden. About the same time a Party of the _Portugueses_ crossing the River _Francisco_, came to the Stream _Miguel_, whither _Picard_ marching, put them all to flight. [Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ sets forth with a Fleet for the re-taking of _St. Salvador_.] [Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ is forc’d to leave the Siege of _St. Salvador_.] _Grave Maurice_ having a Design on _St. Salvador_, the _Portuguese_ Metropolis in _Brasile_, formerly taken by _Peter Hein_ and _Jacob Willekens_, and not long after lost by the faint-heartedness of _William Schouten_ and _Hans Kyf_, though in all likelihood not strong enough to undertake so weighty a Design, yet considering if he should stay longer, the Season would not permit him, therefore he went aboard, hoping that he should receive some Aid from the _Netherlands_; his Army consisted of three thousand four hundred _Netherlanders_, and a thousand _Brasilians_. He had the greater hopes of Victory, because he receiv’d information from _St. Salvador_, that the Soldiers in Garrison there mutiny’d for want of Pay, and that the Governor and Duke of _Bagnola_ were at difference concerning the management of the War. But before he set Sail he had secur’d all Places against any Invasion, and got ready twenty two Sail, furnish’d with Ammunition and Provision, with which on the eighteenth of _August_ Anno 1638. he weigh’d Anchor, and met with six Ships at Sea, which he took, and arriv’d on the sixth day following before the Mouth of the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, which he could not enter by reason of contrary Winds, but Cruis’d up and down before the River _Vermelho_ and the Isle _Tapoam_; whereupon the Governor of _St. Salvador_ and _Bagnola_ drew the _Portuguese_ Forces down thither to prevent his Landing: About Noon the Wind coming about fair for the _Hollanders_, brought _Maurice_ within Shot of the Ships, Forts, Walls and Batteries of the City _St. Salvador_, so that he thundred with his Cannon against them, and Landed on a Promontory near the Sconce _Bartholomew_, without the least resistance, in a convenient place about a League and a half from the City; where Encamping himself, he was inform’d by the Prisoners which he had taken, that about half a League farther was a narrow Bank, border’d with Morasses, so that none could pass along the same but at Low-water, and then onely at a certain time. _Tourlon_ being sent before with three hundred Musquetteers to discover the Place, found the Way not onely as the Prisoners had inform’d, but also fortifi’d by the Enemy; against whom _Maurice_ drew out his Men, ordering Captain _John vander Mast_ in the mean time to run with ten Sail directly upon the City, and to drop his Anchors just without shot of it. Having beaten the Enemy from his Works, he broke through all the Paths, Hedges and Banks, till at last he came and Intrench’d himself near the Out-works of the City, by which his Army was secur’d from any Assaults from the Sea-side. Colonel _Brand_ also with little trouble took the Fort _Philippo_, built on the Shore, and fortifi’d with five Guns. The next day _Maurice_ Storming the Castle _Philippo_, soon became Master of it, notwithstanding it was well Garrison’d, and had thirteen Brass Demi-Culverins. The taking of this Castle afforded the Besiegers a free Passage to their Fleet. They also rais’d two Batteries, from one of which they shot night and day with seven great Guns, and from the other with the like number of Field-pieces, on the Castle _Rosario_, which the _Portuguese_ forsook; but going about to take a Horn-work on the top of the _Carmelites_ Cloyster, he lost many Men in the Attempt, and amongst the rest the Captains _Howin_, _Echbrecht_, _Boward_, _Hollinger_, and the Engineer _Berchem_; and in the end, after many bold and resolute Attaques, what with the strength of the Place, both for number of Defendants, and well fortifi’dness thereof, and what with the want of his expected Supplies, and lastly the sickliness of his Army, by reason of the extraordinary Rains that fell, to the loss of many Officers of note as well as common Soldiers, besides what were slain by the Enemy, he made as honorable a Retreat as he could, so that this Expedition prov’d altogether unsuccessful. Mean while the Provincial _States_ of _Holland_ and _Zealand_ differ’d about allowing of a free Trade to _Brasile_, and sending of Colonies thither: Whereupon _Grave Maurice_ writing to them his Opinion, demonstrated with good Reasons, that a free Trade, and fresh Colonies, would be much to the Companies advantage; which was approv’d of by the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_ and _West-India_ Company, who onely engross’d the Trade of _Negro_’s and _Brasile_ Wood; and on the Imported and Exported Goods they put a certain Custom. [Sidenote: _Houte-been_ Engages the _Spanish_ Fleet.] The _West-India_ Company considering what Treasure _Peter Hein_ had brought from _Matanca_ to _Holland_, they resolv’d to venture another Expedition thither; and to that purpose set out fourteen Sail under the Command of _Cornelis Houte-been_, who weigh’d Anchor out of the _Texel_ on the fourteenth of _August_ Anno 1638. and arriv’d safe at _Reciffa_; where _Houte-been_ having spent some days in Consulting with _Grave Maurice_, went aboard again, and at his entring into the Ship, bruis’d his Leg between the Boat and the sides thereof, which some superstitious Persons look’d upon as very ominous; but this Wound was not so great as to keep him back from whatsoever Service came in his way: for discovering the _Spanish_ Fleet from _Terra Firma_ near _Cuba_, before the Rocky Isle _Organes_, which consisted of eight great Gallions, and six lesser Ships, whose Lading was valu’d at two hundred Tun of Gold, and Commanded by _Carel Dievaro_, he clapt the Admiral aboard, threw in his Grapling-Irons, and made him self fast, with a Resolution either to take him or die, whilest the _Dutch_ Vice-Admiral _Abraham Michaelzoon Roosendael_ boarded the _Spanish_ Vice-Admiral, and the Rere-Admiral _John vander Mast_ the Enemy’s Rere-Admiral; and doubtless, had not the Vice-Admiral and Rere-Admiral been slain, together with _Verdoost_, Captain of the _Orange-Tree_, and other eminent Officers, and those that surviv’d fail’d in their Duty to him for want of Courage, he had given them a signal Overthrow; but whilest with much ado he had prevail’d with his Captains to renew the Combat (having been forc’d by the coming on of the _Spanish_ Vice and Rere-Admirals to quit his hold) and was preparing for a second Onset, the Sea began to be rough, and the Enemy was gotten to the Windward. Some few days after being inform’d, that the _Spanish_ Fleet lay before the Flats of _Cuba_ and the Rocky _Organes_, Steer’d thither, resolving to venture once more; but when he came there, the _Spaniards_ were gone; whereupon he sent some of his Ships to _Brasile_, others to Cruise before _Cuba_, whilest he himself went for the _Netherlands_. Whilest this Expedition fell out so unfortunately, _Cameron_, General of the _Brasilians_, sent three Agents to _Grave Maurice_, desiring to enter into League with the _West-India_ Company, upon some Differences that were risen between him and the Duke of _Bagnola_. _Grave Maurice_ seeming much inclin’d to his Offer, treated the Agents very nobly; who not long after, oblig’d by his Civility, inform’d him, that _Cameron_, an inconstant Man, had made Peace again with _Bagnola_. But that which chiefly obstructed _Grave Maurice_’s Designs, was the want of Provisions, Ammunition and Men, notwithstanding his continual Complaints to the Company. About the beginning of the Year 1639. the _Spanish_ Fleet, consisting of twenty eight Sail, most of them Gallions, appear’d in sight of _Reciffa_, but Steer’d Southwardly; _Grave Maurice_ hereupon sent out the best Sailers to follow them, and see whither they were bound, or if they intended to Land, whilest himself march’d along to _Porto Calvo_; but inform’d that they were gone into the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, he return’d to _Reciffa_, after he had stor’d the Forts _Porto Calvo_, _Una_, _Serinhain_, and that at the Promontory _St. Augustine_, with all Necessaries. [Sidenote: _Arcisseusky_ Impeaches _Grave Maurice_ and his Council.] [Sidenote: Is sent back into _Holland_.] About the same time _Arcisseusky_ arriving from _Holland_ with a Commission to be General over the Forces there, imparted to some Friends the Copy of a Letter that he intended to send to the _Amsterdam_ Burgomaster _Albert Coenraedszoon vander Burgh_, containing many Accusations against _Grave Maurice_ and his Council; of which he being inform’d, call’d a general Assembly, to whom he makes a large Speech, wherein he declar’d how faithful a Servant he had been to the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_ for the space of twenty years, complain’d of the malice of _Arcisseusky_ in wrongfully aspersing him, both in the aforesaid Letter and otherwise, answer’d particularly to every thing which was laid to his Charge, (as he did afterwards in a Letter also from himself to _Vander Burgh_) and lastly made it his peremptory Request, that he might return home, and leave _Arcisseusky_ in Power, or that _Arcisseusky_ might be sent home, and he remain undisturb’d in his Government; and so withdrew, leaving them to their own Consultations. It exceedingly perplex’d them, and took up a long Debate what Judgment to give in this Matter, which before they concluded on, they propos’d several Expedients of Reconciliation between them; but seeing it was all in vain, they unanimously judg’d it convenient, that _Arcisseusky_ should return; who not long after accordingly weigh’d Anchor from _Parayba_ for _Holland_. [Sidenote: Several Judgments concerning him.] _Arcisseusky_ arriving in _Holland_, appear’d unexpectedly before the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_ and _West-India_ Company, where several Judgments were pass’d upon him; some said he deserv’d severe punishment, for his misbehavior to _Grave Maurice_; others seem’d to have compassion of him, because he had done so many noble Exploits; most laid the blame on the Company, who rashly sent him with a Commission as Chief over the _Militia_, not without impairing _Grave Maurice_’s Power; but these Discourses fell amongst those who were not call’d to give their Opinion of this Case. [Sidenote: _Coin_ sent Field-Marshal in his stead.] _John Coin_ was chosen Field-Marshal in _Arcisseusky_’s stead, whilest the Councellors _Matthias Ceulen_, _Adrian vander Dussen_, _John Guiseling_, and _Servaes Carpentier_, were ready to come for _Holland_, and on the twenty ninth of _October_ 1639. they set Sail from _Parayba_, _Vander Dussen_ bringing with him an exact Relation of the Condition of _Brasile_, so far as concerns the _West-India_ Company, which being material, we shall reserve it for a more fit place. It being fear’d that the _Spanish_ Fleet in the Harbor of _Todos los Sanctos_ might undertake some Design or other against the _Hollanders_, _Grave Maurice_ kept a watchful Eye upon them, repair’d all decay’d Forts, rais’d new Forces, sent out some Vessels to watch the Fleet, and prohibited the Transporting of Provisions, animated the _Brasilian_ Commanders to fight against the _Portuguese_, and forc’d the Owners of Sugar-Mills to Plant store of _Mandihoka_, that so his Provisions might last the longer. A Party of the Enemy, consisting of about twelve hundred Men, having pass’d the River _Francisco_, was soon after oppos’d by Colonel _Donker_. [Sidenote: A _Spanish_ Fleet lies before _St. Salvador_.] The _Spanish_ Fleet having lay’n a whole Year before _St. Salvador_ (because they had lost near three thousand Men, who on the Coast of _Africa_ dy’d of several Distempers, and therefore waited for a fresh Supply) set Sail on the ninteenth of _November Anno 1639._ with eighty seven Sail, carrying sixteen thousand Men, of which thirty seven were great Gallions. _Ferdinand Mascarenhas_, Duke of _Torre_, being chief Admiral, carry’d the Flag and sixty Brass Guns in the Ship _Domingo_; the _Portuguese_ Admiral, _Roderigo Lobo_, carry’d fifty two Guns in the Gallion _Bernardo_; of all which, with the number of the Enemy’s Forces, _Grave Maurice_ was inform’d by a Letter taken out of a Pink laden with Sugar; and also that the _Spaniards_ were in great hopes of the _Portuguese_ deserting the _West-India_ Company, with whom they were forc’d to joyn; that this great Fleet was order’d to Cruise two years before the Coast of _Brasile_, and to Land divers Men under the Command of _Bagnola_, _Francisco de Moro_, _Antonio Roderigo_, _Nunno de Mello_, _Jacob Pirezio_, _Francisco Pezam_, and _Lopes Barbalio_; all which made _Maurice_ write continually for Aid, “Which the _West-India_ Company must send speedily, unless they were resolv’d to lose what they had gotten in _Brasile_, as also the People, who had hitherto defended the same with the loss of their Lives and Fortunes.” A _Negro_ that serv’d a _Spanish_ Captain, call’d _Henrick Dias_, being taken, inform’d the _Hollanders_, That the _Spanish_ Fleet was much weakned by a poysonous Air on the Coast of _Africa_; and that they had left a considerable number of their Men in the Hospital at _St. Salvador_; that the Admiral was resolv’d with divided Forces to burn all Places he came at, and to receive the _Negro_’s, _Mamolucks_, _Mulatto_’s, and _Brasilians_, under his Jurisdiction. But _Grave Maurice_ gave little credit to this Relation, because the _Spaniard_ doubted not in the least, but that he should take _Brasile_ from the _Netherlanders_ with his fore-mention’d Forces, why then should he ruine what he hop’d to possess? None knew whither the _Spanish_ Fleet intended to go; for setting Sail under the Command of _Antonio Oquendo_, under pretence of falling upon the _Netherlands_, they Steer’d their Course to _Brasile_, and at last from the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_ to _Goyana_; but four days before they weigh’d Anchor, _William Corneliszoon Loos_, who had some time been Cruising before the said Inlet, came back to _Reciffa_ with thirteen Sail of Ships, which wanted all manner of Necessaries. [Sidenote: _Corneliszoon Loos_ with his small Power sets out to Engage the great _Spanish_ Fleet.] [Sidenote: Admiral _Loos_ slain.] [Sidenote: _Huigens_ chaseth the _Spanish_ Fleet.] [Sidenote: _Alderick_’s valiant Exploit.] The _West-India_ Company had now been in a mean Condition, had there not happily arriv’d first eight, next two, and at last nine Ships from the _Texel_, the _Maes_, and _Zealand_, with Provisions, and a Supply of Men; which _Maurice_ had no sooner taken out, and unladen the Ships, but he fitted them for an Engagement, and made up the number of forty one Sail, who yet were not to be compar’d to the _Spaniards_, whose smallest Vessels carry’d more Men and Guns than the biggest of the _Hollanders_, which in all had but two thousand one hundred and ninety six Men, and one Ship with another under twenty Iron Guns: With this small Power the Admiral _William Corneliszoon Loos_ went to meet the Enemy, and before the River _Michael_ took four _Spanish_ Ships, which carry’d Ammunition and Provisions for the Army, which _Lopes Barbalio_ commanded ashore. On the twelfth of _January, Anno 1640._ he descry’d the _Spanish_ Fleet between _Itamaraca_ and _Goyana_; not far from which _Mascarenhas_ thought to Land seven thousand Men at _Paomorello_; and they were already gotten into little Vessels when the _Hollanders_ Fleet made towards them, and about three a Clock in the Afternoon began a bloody Engagement for four hours, in which _Loos_ Engaging with the _Spanish_ Admiral and four Gallions, was kill’d in the middle of the Fight, which ended in the Evening. _Jacob Huigens_ carrying the Flag the next day in sight of the Promontory _Blanco_, chearing up his Men, went to renew the Fight with _Mascarenhas_, and with a few small Ships Engag’d several great ones, of which they had an advantage onely in their nimble turning and winding. In this Engagement _Huigens_ lost the Ship call’d _The Sun_, which sunk with Colonel _Mortimer_ and forty four Men, thirty four being sav’d in the Boat. The _Hollanders_ Loss was the less, because the _Spanish_ great Gallions fir’d over _Huigens_’s Ships, which fir’d in the midst of the _Spaniards_ Vessels. _Huigens_ not being tir’d with two days Engagements, fell upon them a third time before _Parayba_, and firing at the _Spanish_ and _Portuguese_ Admirals, pursu’d their Fleet to the Northermost Coast of _Brasile_, where by a strong Current they were driven Westerly; and the _Swan_, Commanded by _Jacob Alderick_, losing her Main-mast, was cut off from the Fleet by twelve Gallions; and three hundred _Spaniards_ were already Masters of the Deck, when _Alderick_ breaking from the Enemy, drove towards the Shore, and either kill’d the _Spaniards_ that were in his Ship, or forc’d them to leap overboard, whilest _Antonio Cunha de Andrada_, not knowing that _Alderick_ was aground, making up to him, ran also aground, which occasion’d a new Fight, and at last _Andrada_ was made to surrender his Gallion, and with it three thousand Pound of coin’d and uncoin’d Silver, besides other rich Goods, and two hundred and thirty Men, who were all sent Prisoners to _Reciffa_. [Sidenote: The _Spanish_ Fleet again put to flight by _Huigens_.] _January_ the seventeenth _Huigens_ ventur’d a fourth Engagement between _Rio Grande_ and _Conyaou_, where approaching the _Spanish_ Fleet, a sudden Calm prevented him from coming within shot of them, till against the Evening the Wind began to rise, but the Night approaching, it was not judg’d worth while to Engage for so few hours, therefore they referr’d the bloody work till the next day; when about Daybreak _Huigens_ ran through the midst of the Enemy’s Fleet, and fir’d so fiercely on _Mascarenhas_, that he Tacking about, stood away right before the Wind, and not being able to get beyond the Shelves _Baxios de Rochas_, nor to get Water on the Coast, because the _Hollanders_ Ketches guarded the same, he Sail’d into the Offin towards the _Line_ with a South-East Wind. After which _Huigens_ lay eight days before _Rio Grande_ to refresh and rest himself, and on the first of _February_ he arriv’d at _Reciffa_, where _Maurice_ caus’d a Thanksgiving Day to be kept for this wonderful Victory, whilest the Enemy was exceedingly abash’d. Several Disadvantages occurr’d towards the overthrow of the _Spanish_ Fleet; for first it was much weakned by the Disease which rag’d in the same on the Coast of _Africa_, insomuch that it lay still a whole year in _Todos los Sanctos_ to gather fresh Forces, whilest _Maurice_ put himself in a posture of Defence: Secondly, they lay becalm’d, and met with contrary Winds for several Moneths, whenas the Voyage between _St. Salvador_ and _Pernambuco_ is commonly not above twelve days; which tedious Passage occasion’d also a Distemper and faint-heartedness amongst the _Spaniards_, whilest divers Ships arriv’d at _Reciffa_ from the _Netherlands_, without which it had been impossible to have Engag’d with the Enemy, in regard till then all manner of Ammunition and Provisions were wanting. _Huigens_ also had continually the advantage or benefit of the Wind, and lost in the Engagement but two Ships, a hundred and twenty four Men, besides twelve wounded: Moreover, but twelve Ships onely of the _Dutch_ Engag’d with this great _Spanish_ Fleet, the rest never coming within shot; wherefore the two Commanders, _John Coopman Ryk_, and _Peter Jacob_, were condemn’d to be Beheaded; _Cornelis Johnszoon_ and _Peter Dirkszoon_ had their Swords broke over their Heads by the common Hangman; _Cornelis Lucifer_, _Dirk Eger_, and _Jacob Clavor_, were banish’d; and others came off by paying great Fines: but the _Spanish_ Fleet lost in the four Engagements twenty Ships, and some thousands of Men, the _Joseph_ alone having four hundred slain in her. Lastly, anchoring near the Island _Margareta_, the _Portuguese_ Admiral _Cosmo de Couto_, and the Captain-General _Francisco Pimentello_, falling out, the _Spaniards_ Steer’d to _Tercera_, and from thence to _Cales_, where there Landed but few Men, most of them dying of Hunger and Thirst in their Return home: Four Gallions, with two Pinks, got into the _Spanish_ Harbors, the rest being either stranded before _New Spain_, sunk, or return’d to the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_. [Sidenote: _Cameron_’s Forces and _Barbalio_’s put to flight by _Coin_.] [Sidenote: _Portugueses_ Plot against the _Netherlanders_ discover’d.] Before the foremention’d Fleet weigh’d Anchor from _St. Salvador_, two thousand _Portugueses_, besides _Tapuyans_ and other _Brasilians_, march’d under the Command of _Cameron_, _Vidal_, and _Barbalio_, with divided Forces into the Countrey, partly to get Provision, and partly to do what mischief they could to the _Hollanders_, far and near: their Orders were to joyn in the Village _St. Laurence_, seven Leagues beyond _Paomarello_, that there they might make way for the Seamen to Land, if the _Netherland_ Forces should chance to guard the Sea-Coast thereabouts, and to joyn with them as soon as they were Landed. But _Grave Maurice_ encourag’d by his late Victory at Sea, immediately sent the Field-Marshal _Coin_ against _Cameron_, who dividing his Army into small Companies, had distributed them through the Woods; in which _Coin_ follow’d his Example, and with divided Forces pursu’d _Cameron_’s Army, and overtook his Captain _Tak_ and two hundred Men at _Poyuca_, (whereof _Lopes Barbalio_ was Governor) who fled, notwithstanding he Commanded six hundred Men. Soon after which the Muster-master _Mansveld_ met him near the Village _St. Laurence_, Engag’d him, and putting him to flight, found several Papers of Concern that he had left behind, and amongst others a Letter, in which _Barbalio_ was commanded to spare neither _Brasilians_ nor _Netherlanders_ alive, but to kill all, without regard either to their Age or Quality, except the _Portuguese_. Moreover, _Andries Vidal_ urg’d the Owners of the Sugar-Mills in the _Netherlanders Brasile_, immediately to take up Arms, to regain their ancient Freedom, as soon as _Mascarenhas_ appear’d with the _Spanish_ Fleet on the Coast of _Brasile_: Thus _Vidal_, by Letters and private Conferences, prevail’d so much, that most of the _Portuguese_ were ready against their Oaths to root out the _Netherlanders_: The sign when they should be ready, was the burning of some Sugar-Mills, _Vidal_ imagining thereby to have drawn the _Netherlanders_ from the Sea-side, and so made the Sea-Coast free for the _Spaniards_ to Land securely in. But the Garrison under _Coin_ along the Sea-shore near _Alexis_, not ignorant of the Enemy’s Plot, kept their Stations, and suffer’d the Mills to burn. The like did _Craey_ at the Promontory of St. _Augustine_, _Picard_ at _Paomarello_, Captain _Day_ at _Cantolaria_, and _Donker_ on _Goyana_; _Hoogstraet_ kept Guard up in the Countrey; _Tourlon_ also sent out by _Maurice_ against _Francisco Sosa_ and _Henrick Dias_, who had pillag’d all the Countrey about the River _Conajou_, fell upon them in such a manner, that he destroy’d eighty seven of them, and wounded a considerable number more of them, made the rest flie to St. _Salvador_. Two Moneths before the _Spanish_ Fleet set Sail from _Todos los Sanctos_, three thousand _Tapuyans_ came to _Rio Grande_ with their Wives and Children, from an unknown Countrey remote from the Sea. _Grave Maurice_ requested their King _John de Wy_, that he would please to keep Watch along the Sea-Coast, and prevent the Landing of the _Spanish_ Seamen: Whereupon _De Wy_ sent his Son to the Castle _Ceulen_, making solemn Protestations, that he was ready to lose his Life and Fortune for the _Netherlanders_, in helping them to drive the _Portuguese_ out of _Brasile_. _Maurice_ also joyn’d two thousand _Brasilians_, and Colonel _Garstman_ with sixty _Netherlanders_, to the _Tapuyans_, that so he might train them up in Martial Discipline, whilest the _Tapuyans_ Wives and Children were plac’d on the Island _Tamarica_. About the beginning of the Year 1640. _Houte-been_ and _Lichthart_ brought a considerable Fleet from the _Netherlands_ to an Anchor at _Reciffa_, where a Consultation was held, whither these Ships might be sent to do most Service: every one had an Eye on St. _Salvador_, not long since Storm’d in vain; but _Maurice_ judg’d that they had not Forces enough to undertake so grand a Design, but thought it would be better to Land some fresh Forces near St. _Salvador_, that there they might burn the Sugar-Mills, and destroy all things they could find, in revenge of what the Enemy had done at _Parayba_. Whereupon _Tourlon_ and _Lichthart_ set Sail with twenty Ships, Mann’d with two thousand five hundred Men, to the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, where they burnt all the _Portuguese_ Sugar-Mills, Houses and Villages; neither did their Swords spare any alive but Women and Infants: The Cattel which they found they carry’d aboard of their Ships, and burnt all other Provisions. [Sidenote: Capt. _Brand_ taken Prisoner.] [Sidenote: _Coin_ unsuccessfully Storms _Spirito Sancto_.] In the mean time _Houte-been_ and _Coin_ fell upon _Porto Franco_, where they ruin’d all things, to no other end, but that the Enemy might call home his Forces out of the _Netherlanders Brasile_, to defend the Province _Todos los Sanctos_. But Captain _Brand_ going up too far into the Countrey with his Army, was suddenly set upon, had a hundred of his Men slain on the Spot, and was himself taken Prisoner, together with many more. Also the Storming of the Town _Spirito Sancto_ by _Coin_ prov’d unsuccessful, because he led an undisciplin’d Company, and wanted little Vessels to Land in on a sudden; for the Enemy having had timely notice, immediately rais’d a Sconce about the Town, and with five Brass Guns fir’d stoutly on him, who endeavor’d to climb up the Hill, but was forc’d to sound a Retreat, his Men failing in their Courage; yet at last breaking into the Town, he set some of the Houses on fire, which being built of Stone, resisted the Flame; so burning onely four hundred and fifty Chests of Sugar, he left sixty Men kill’d, and brought back eighty wounded. _Lichthart_ in the mean time made great havock about St. _Salvador_. [Sidenote: Woods of _Brasile_ set on fire by _Peter Vist_.] In this Conjuncture the _West-India_ Company suffer’d much by Robberies and Spoils committed up and down the Countrey, by the setting their Woods of _Brasile_ on fire by a company of _Negro_’s, the chief Ring-leader of whom was one call’d _Peter Vist_, who from Caves and almost inaccessible Ways came forth in the Night, and set fire on whatsoever places he came to, notwithstanding a hundred _Negro_’s of his crew were soon after caught, which he at several times had by force taken out of their Masters Sugars-Mills; which _Grave Maurice_ prevented as much as possible, by keeping Soldiers up and down in Arms. He also us’d the _Portuguese_ very civilly, who though they promis’d Obedience, because they liv’d under the Jurisdiction of the _West-India_ Company, yet were ready on all occasions to shew the contrary; wherefore _Grave Maurice_ sending for the chief of them to _Reciffa_ from _Pernambuco_, _Itamaraca_, and _Parayba_, told them before the Privy Council, that they might easily see how vainly they expected that the _Spanish_ Crown should take _Brasile_ from the _Netherlanders_; that formerly they depended on the _Spanish_ Fleet Commanded by _Mascarenhas_, but that being destroy’d by a small Force, that hope was lost; therefore if henceforward they would Trade on their own Accounts, they might be assur’d they should not suffer in the least, either in their Goods, Religion, or Persons. [Sidenote: _Hector de Calce_ taken Prisoner.] The _Neopolitan_ Field-Marshal _Hector de la Calce_, setting Sail from the Haven _Todos los Sanctos_ with an old Ship carrying six hundred Men, was forc’d to run aground in the Haven of _Parayba_, where he and the chief Commanders were taken Prisoners, whilest the Common Soldiers by reason of the scarcity of Provisions, were set at liberty. _Houte-been_ and _Lichthart_ weigh’d Anchor with twenty four Ships, carrying two thousand Soldiers and seven hundred Seamen to _Havana_, to Cruise for the Plate-Fleet, but the _Spanish_ Ships keeping within their Harbors, and their own being dispers’d and scatter’d by ill Weather, their Voyage prov’d in vain. Not long after _Grave Maurice_ sent some Ships under _Lichtharts_ Command to Cruise before the River _Januarius_, and others for the same purpose to _Angola_; but he effected little, for he onely took two Ships, one whereof being laden with Wine, was sold for 9400 l. _Sterl._ The news of the _Portuguese_ Crowning the Duke of _Bragancia_, and casting off the _Castilian_ Yoke, which very much chang’d the face of Affairs in _Brasile_, was about this time brought over by the Jesuit _Francisco Vilhent_, and the Under-Field-Marshal _Peter Corera de Gama_, who were by _Bragancia_ sent to St. _Salvador_, not onely to bring the tidings of the _Portugueses_ Revolt, but also to take the Oath of Allegiance from _Montalvan_ to the new King, which he made no scruple of; so that from thenceforth all but the _Castilian_ and _Neopolitan_ Soldiers, cast off their Obedience to the Crown of _Spain_. Whereupon _Montalvan_ desir’d _Grave Maurice_ to allow a Cessation of Arms, till such time as they might both receive information what _Tristan Mendoza_, in the new King of _Portugal_’s Name, had Treated with the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_ about; and to make the Request seem the fairer, several _Dutch_ Prisoners were set at liberty, and the Companies with which _Paulo Acunhas_ was marching to _Pernambuco_, were call’d back. [Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ desir’d by the _States_ and _West-India_ Company to continue in his Government of _Brasile_.] _Grave Maurice_ desiring in his Letters to be releas’d from his Employment in _Brasile_, receiv’d for Answer from the _States_, “That it would be very disadvantageous for the _States_ for him to come home, now he throughly understood the Intreagues of the _New World_, in which he might do much good, especially since the _Portuguese_ being revolted, would in all probability assist them in destroying the King of _Castile_’s Forces; therefore it was now the most proper time to prepare for Action.” To this Request of the _States_ was added that of the _West-India_ Company, who also sent earnest Letters to the same purpose; which made _Maurice_ defer his Return, and prepare himself for some grand Undertaking: And first he joyn’d the Province of _Seregippe Del Rey_ to the _Netherland Brasile_, built a Fort and Armory in the same, and built a Wall about the Town; which Work was the more follow’d, because _Seregippe_, which border’d upon the Province of _Todos los Sanctos_, fed abundance of Cattel, and gave great hopes of Silver-Mines. [Sidenote: _Loando_ taken by _Houte-been_.] _Grave Maurice_ likewise observing what great Profit proceeded from the _Angolan Negro_’s, and that the _Spanish_ Sugar-Mills could not work without them, undertook to ingross that Trade wholly into the _West-India_ Companies hands; to which purpose _Loando St. Paulo_ being judg’d a fit Place for a Factory, _Houte-been_ was sent thither with twenty Ships, Mann’d with nine hundred Seamen, two thousand Land-Soldiers, and two hundred _Brasilians_: the Land-Men were Commanded by _Hinderson_, who arriving with the Fleet on the twenty fourth of _August_ 1640. before _Loando St. Paulo_, ran in between the Enemy’s Castles, St. _Crux_, _Bento_, _Sibylla_, _Vincent_, _Velho_, and against five Batteries along the Water side, all full of Guns, and fir’d so vehemently upon the Enemy, that being forc’d to leave his Works, he made room for _Hinderson_ to Land; who immediately march’d to the Town, which _Peter Cæsar Meneses_ defended with nine hundred _Portugueses_, and some thousands of _Negro_’s, who stood the first Onset; but _Hinderson_ falling upon them again, so affrighted them, that they fled; which _Meneses_ perceiving, soon follow’d, and left him Master of the City, in which he found onely a few drunken Soldiers, decrepid old People, twenty nine Brass Guns, besides several Iron ones, and great plenty of Provisions and Ammunition. Mean while _Houte-been_ took thirty Ships hal’d near the Shore. [Sidenote: Description of the City.] This City is built on a Hill, and hath several fair Buildings and Cloysters, amongst which the _Jesuits_ and _Capuchins_ are the best. Along the Sea-shore at the foot of the Mountain, stands also a long Row of Houses, near which _Hinderson_ immediately cast up Bulwarks against any Assault, and likewise two Sconces, the biggest whereof is on the utmost Point of _Loando_ near the Fort _Sibylla_. [Sidenote: _Meneses_ in vain Expostulates.] Twelve companies being left here in Garrison, quite contrary to _Meneses_ his expectation, who thinking that the _Netherlanders_ came onely for Booty, and not to take or keep the City by force of Arms, made his Complaints therefore by Letters to _Houte-been_, alledging, That there was Peace made between the King of _Portugal_ and the _United Netherlands_, and that the former Acts of Hostility were chang’d to friendly Correspondencies. But _Houte-been_ answer’d, “That he knew not of any such Agreement between _Portugal_ and the _Netherlands_; and if he had known it, how should he be sure whether _Meneses_ held with the _Castilians_ or _Portugueses_? If _Meneses_ knew of this Agreement, and was of the _Portuguese_ Party, why did he receive those as Enemies, whom he must acknowledge as Friends? His Complaints were now too late, since the _Hollanders_ had obtain’d the Victory with the loss of their Blood.” _Meneses_ therefore seeing no hopes to regain _Loando_, either by Complaints or Force, desir’d eight days Cessation of Arms, that in that time he might fit himself to go from thence to another Place; which the _Netherlanders_ in Garrison would not hearken to, but commanded him to march away immediately sixteen Leagues from _Loando_. [Sidenote: Great Profit of the _Negro_-Trade.] Mean while the _Angolan_ Princes joyning with the _Netherlanders_ fell upon the _Portuguese_ where-e’re they met them. Moreover, several Citizens return’d to _Loando_, and proffer’d half their _Negro_’s, if they might but have liberty to be Transported to St. _Salvador_ with the other half; but it was judg’d more convenient to keep them, and by fair means also to invite the rest, because it appear’d by the _Angolan_ Accounts, that the profit of the _Negro_-Trade amounted yearly to sixty six Tuns of Gold, the Charges of the Garrison, and fitting out of the Ships being deducted from it. The _Spanish_ King had yearly above fifteen thousand _Negro_’s from hence to employ in his _American_ Mines. [Sidenote: The _Isle_ of St. _Thomas_ taken by _Houte-been_.] [Sidenote: Great Mortality among the _Dutch_ on the Island _St. Thomas_, by reason of the unwholsomness of the Place.] _Houte-been_ Sailing over from _Loando_ to the Isle of St. _Thomas_, Landed some of his Men over against the Sugar-Mills of St. _Juna_, and ran with his Fleet to an Anchor near a square Castle, with intention to use no Hostility, unless provok’d; which the _Portuguese_ did by firing their Guns, and were answer’d by _Houte-been_, one of whose Ships call’d the _Enchuisen_ was blown up; those that Landed also met with some resistance from divers _Negro_’s; yet at last they gain’d the Fort, in which they found six Guns, and soon after march’d into the Town _Pavaosa_, where the Inhabitants had left nothing but empty Houses; the great Castle they were forc’d to let alone, because the Scaling-Ladders would not reach to the top of the Walls, which were twenty eight foot high: But _Houte-been_ coming ashore, rais’d a Battery behind the Church, from whence he fir’d with six Demi-Cannons, and threw sixty five Granado’s amongst the Besieged, twenty whereof burst with such violence, that all things about them were beaten to pieces; and those in Garrison march’d out, notwithstanding they might easily have endur’d a long Siege, having twenty Brass, and sixteen Iron Guns, besides all manner of Ammunition. _Houte-been_ thus become Master of all things on the Island of St. _Thomas_, sent for the fled _Portugueses_ into the City on reasonable Proffers, embrac’d by many of the Inhabitants and _Negro_’s. But whilest _Houte-been_ put all things in good order here, the Countrey Disease began to rage amongst the Seamen, for those who but a little before climb’d up the Walls couragiously, grew faint, and fell down in a Swoon; those who fought valiantly against their Enemies, were now put into their Graves; in short, of a thousand Men, a hundred were scarce left in health, the rest being departed, or lying Bedrid: the unwholsom Air without any difference infected both great and small; for the Commanders _Mastmaker_, _Valett_, _Dammert_, _Claudius_, _Teer_, _Tack_, and the chief in this Expedition, _Houte-been_, were all taken off, and Interr’d in the chief Church of _Pavoasa_, after the finishing of so much bloody Work. Most complain’d of intolerable Head-ache, even to Distraction, others also of horrible Gripings; and all those who were afflicted either of these two ways, most certainly dy’d in four days time. The occasion of this deadly Distemper was by divers, according to their different Judgments, imputed to several Accidents; but doubtless it was chiefly to be ascrib’d to the poysonous Damps or Fogs, which often rise in this Island, at which times every one us’d to keep close in their Huts or Houses; which the _Netherlanders_ being ignorant of, neglected. [Sidenote: The first Colony sent thither by _John_ the Third, King of _Portugal_.] The _Portuguese_ that dwelt on this Island inform’d the _Netherlanders_, that few liv’d above fifty years there, yet notwithstanding the great Gain tempted them to tarry, several of them having two or three hundred _Negro_’s that work’d in the Sugar-Mills; that _John_ the Third, King of _Portugal_, sent a Colony thither above two hundred years before, whom though the unwholsom Air destroy’d, yet the Place was not left desolate; for he sent new Inhabitants, who first Setled in _Guinee_, next in _Angola_, and lastly on the Island St. _Thomas_, that so they might be the better us’d to the Air; that the said King sold all those _Jews_ for Slaves that refus’d to embrace the _Roman_ Religion, and caus’d their Children to be Baptiz’d, from whom (coming thither in great numbers) most of the present Inhabitants were descended. Twice a year, _viz._ in _March_ and _September_, the Sun is in the _Zenith_ here, being right perpendicular, and by that means makes no Shadow at Noon; but the Heat is somewhat mollifi’d in these two Moneths by the Rains which fall, and in the Summer by a West, or South Wind; for there never blow neither East nor Northerly Winds. [Sidenote: The Description of the Island.] The white People that dwell here have commonly a Feaver every eighth day; first they grow chill, next cold, and at last very hot, which lasts onely two hours. They commonly Let Blood four times a year to prevent this Distemper. The _Negro_’s generally attain to a great Age, many times to above a hundred years. The Island bears the Name of St. _Thomas_ from the Saint on whose Day the _Portuguese_ discover’d the same. From the middle of it rises a Hill, overgrown with Trees, and cover’d on the top with Snow, which dropping down into certain Brooks, runs through the Woods, and moistens the Cane-Fields. The Ground it self is tough, and Ash-colour’d; in it breed blue Crabs like Moles, which hurt all manner of Roots and Plants. The City of _Pavaosa_ is the Metropolis of the Island, and a Bishop’s See; it lies near a clear and pleasant Brook, and is flank’d on one side with Hills, fruitful in the production of Sugar-Canes, but partakes of the unwholsom Air of the Island, which therefore can scarce be defended by _Netherlanders_, because they being unaccustom’d to the Climate, generally die: Wherefore _Grave Maurice_ advis’d the _States_ to people this Place with Malefactors, who might either live here to the Publick good, or die with less Disgrace than in a Prison. [Sidenote: The City _St. Lodowick_ taken by _Coin_.] Towards the latter end of the Year 1641. _Lichthart_ and _Coin_ weigh’d Anchor with eight great, and six lesser Ships, and Sail’d to the Island of _Maragnon_; where _Coin_ Landing near the City St. _Lodowick_, march’d immediately to the Fort, wash’d on both sides with one River, which there divides it self into two Branches: the Governor of it being too weak to hold out a Storming, sent two eminent Persons to _Coin_, with Proffers that they would surrender on reasonable Articles: whereupon _Coin_ granted them their Lives, and free possession of their Goods, and gave leave to the Soldiers to stay in the City _St. Lodowick_, provided they had no Arms, till Orders came from _Grave Maurice_ and his Council at _Reciffa_. The _Hollanders_ entring the Fort found fifty five great Guns, abundance of all manner of Provisions, and left six hundred Men in Garrison. But the new King of _Portugal_ complain’d by his Agent _Mendoza_ to the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_, concerning the Transactions of the _West-India_ Company, who had taken the _Loando_, and the Isles St. _Thomas_ and _Maragnan_, from him. But he was answer’d, That those Places were taken either before the ten years Peace was concluded with the _Portuguese_, or before the King approv’d of it, or at least before it was publish’d. _Grave Maurice_ finding that he could not prevail by fair means with the _Portuguese_ in _Brasile_, sought to do something by force of Arms, because the welfare of the _West-India_ Company depended solely upon the fortune of War; his Design lay towards the South Sea, whither the Ships might the easier Sail from _Brasile_ through the _Straights_ of _Magellan_ or _Le Maire_, because in the Summer there blow for the most part Northern Winds along the Coast of _America_. There were likewise many good Conveniences in the Southern Ocean, not onely to surprize the rich _Manilha_ Traders but also to meet with the _Peruvian_ Plate-Fleet; besides which, Enquiries might be made with little Charges, if any Place were fit to Settle on for Trade in the unknown South Land. [Sidenote: A great Deluge in _Brasile_.] This Year 1641. was not onely remarkable for the _Portugueses_ revolting from the _Spaniards_, but also for a great Deluge, which did much hurt in _Brasile_; for the Rains fell so exceeding hard without ceasing, that the swoln Rivers every where overflow’d their Banks and Dams; the Plants were either wash’d away, or were eaten up by little Worms, which bred as soon as the Water began to fall. Besides this Plague, the Small-pox also rag’d amongst the People, of which many dy’d, and others lay lingring a great while. The Sugar-Mills likewise stood still for want of _Negro_’s, which the Distemper had for the most part destroy’d, and the Sugar-Canes rotted in the Ground. [Sidenote: A Peace agreed on between the _States_ of _Holland_ and the King of _Portugal_.] Man while _Grave Maurice_ receiv’d news of the Agreement between the King of _Portugal_ and the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_, according to which every one was to keep what they had gotten by the War; Trading was free for all; against all the Castles and Fortresses in _America_, under the King of _Spain_’s Dominion, Hostility was to be acted alike by both; the Countrey which lay between the utmost Borders of the _Portuguese_ and _Netherlanders_, were to be divided, that each might know their just Limits; all manner of Trade to the _Spanish America_ was forbidden to both; each Owner was to remain in possession of the Goods which he had on the Day when this ten years Peace was proclaim’d. [Sidenote: _Tolner_ gives the _West-India_ Company an Account of the state of Affairs in _Brasile_.] _Grave Maurice_ seeing he could not get the _States_ Consent to return home, sent his Secretary _Tolner_ to _Holland_, to inform the _West-India_ Company of the Condition of _Brasile_, and to request such things as were wanting there: _Tolner_ accordingly arriving in _Holland_, acquainted them with the Extent of their Dominions in _Brasile_, which reach’d from _Maragnan_ to the River _Real_; with the necessity of keeping the Soldiery undisbanded, in regard the _Portuguese_ were ready to take all advantages, notwithstanding the Articles of Agreement; with the discontent of their own Men, and their readiness to mutiny upon the report that they were to be Disbanded; with the great Inconveniences of altering the Government of the _West-India_ Company; with the number of Soldiers wherewith every Place belonging to the Company was at that present furnish’d, which amounted in all to near five thousand Men; and with the impossibility of keeping those Places, unless a speedy Supply of Men and Provisions were sent. _Grave Maurice_ receiv’d a Letter from _Mascarenhas_, wherein he made great complaint of the _Netherlanders_ Actions on _Loando_, St. _Thomas_, and _Maragnan_, during the time of the Treaty, and us’d many Arguments for the delivering back of the Places then taken; but _Maurice_ took little notice of the said Letter, being busie about setling all Affairs in this quiet Juncture of time: He freed all new Planters from the paying of Tenths for seven years, sold several Fields to be Cultivated, repair’d all decay’d Forts, kept the _Catholicks_ in strict awe, ordain’d good Orders for Schools, Alms-houses, and payment of Money, and gave particularly Liberty to the _Portuguese_ both in Spiritual and Temporal Affairs. [Sidenote: The Fort _Calvaria_ taken by the _Maragnans_ and others.] In the mean time sad news was brought, _viz._ That the _Maragnans_, assisted by the _Portugueses_ and _Brasilians_, had taken the Fort of _Calvaria_ near the River _Tapicuru_, destroy’d all those that were in Garrison, and Storm’d the City _Lodowick_: Whereupon _Hinderson_ was dispatch’d thither immediately with three hundred _Netherlanders_, and two hundred _Brasilians_ from _Siara_; which the Enemy hearing, though there were seven hundred _Portugueses_, and three thousand _Brasilians_, left the Island _Maragnan_, and went over to the Main Continent. The occasion of this Plot was imputed to the fault of the sottish Governor of St. _Lodowick_, and his Secretary _William Negenton_, who by their Folly and Misgovernment provok’d the Natives to Rebellion. [Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ his Design upon _Buenos Aires_ diverted by _Pirez_ his taking of _Pavaosa_.] In the interim _Grave Maurice_ had a Design upon the City _Buenos Aires_ in the Southern parts of _Brasile_, near the River _La Plata_, where a Way leads by Land to _Peru_; and whither the Silver and _Negro_’s were often brought, especially when any Ships were suspected to block up the Channel of _Panama_. Whilest _Maurice_ was preparing for this Expedition, news was brought that two Ships had Landed their Men on the Island St. _Thomas_, under the Command of _Laurence Pirez_, who had driven the _Netherland_ Garrison out of _Pavaosa_, and Besieg’d the Fort, out of which many for want of Water ran to the Enemy; and it was fear’d that the same Misfortune would suddenly befall the City _Loando_ and _Seregippe del Rey_; which prevented _Henrick Borer_’s Expedition to _Chili_, and _Lichthart_’s to _Buenos Aires_, and so alarm’d _Grave Maurice_, that he thought it expedient to give speedy notice thereof, to warn the _Netherlanders_ on _Angola_, that they should keep strict Watches, and beware of the treacherous _Portuguese_, who affirm’d, That it was lawful for them during the ten years Peace, to re-take those Places which had been taken from them during the Treaty of Peace in the _Hague_. [Sidenote: Description of the _Palmares_.] These Proceedings forc’d _Grave Maurice_ to Disarm most of them; and because the _Negro_’s did much mischief from the _Palmares_, especially to the Husbandmen in the _Alagoas_, _Maurice_ gave order to destroy their Habitations. The _Palmares_ were two Villages, built along the River _Gungohuby_ under close Woods, six Leagues Northwardly from _Parayba_: The Inhabitants of them, being then about six thousand in number, were most of them fled _Negro_’s, who gathering together in a Head, destroy’d all the Countrey thereabouts: They dwelt in Huts of Boughs and Straw interwoven; behind which were Gardens and Orchards of Palm-Trees, and conform’d to the Religion and Government of the _Portuguese_. [Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ countersollicited by Agents from the king of _Congo_ and Duke of _Sonho_.] Whilest three hundred Musquetteers, a hundred _Mameluks_, and seven hundred _Brasilians_ were fitting to go to the _Palmares_, there arriv’d _Agents_ at _Reciffa_ from the King of _Congo_, who brought as a Present to _Grave Maurice_, two hundred _Negro_’s, a Golden Collar and Pot, besides many _Negro_’s for the _West-India_ Company. These Agents desir’d Aid against the Duke of _Sonho_, who treacherously Plotted to drive the King out of _Congo_; which Plot was discover’d by scatter’d Letters, Sign’d by the Governors and Bishop at _Loando_, a little before _Loando_ was taken by the _Hollanders_. _Maurice_ courteously Entertaining the Agents, proffer’d himself to be a Mediator to decide the Difference, and gave them a long Velvet Coat Lac’d with Gold and Silver Lace, a Silk Coat and Scarf, and a Beaver Hat with a Golden Edging. Not long after there came Agents from _Sonho_, to beseech _Grave Maurice_ that he would not assist the King of _Congo_; one of whom went to the _Hague_, and was follow’d by two from the King of _Congo_, who open’d their Letters before the Prince of _Orange_. [Sidenote: The Agents from _Congo_, what kind of Men.] The two Agents from _Congo_ were strong and black Men, very active, and having grim Countenances; they Danc’d after a strange manner; and showing the Picture of their King sitting in great State, acted the Postures in which his Nobles and other Subjects shew’d him Reverence: their Strength was such, that they were able with ease to carry each of them two hundred thirty five Pound weight: their Ornamentals consisted of _Elephants_ Tails. [Sidenote: _Meneses_ surpris’d by _Niewland_ after they were come to terms of Agreement.] [Sidenote: _Alvares de la Benho_ his Complaint to _Grave Maurice_ of his Country-men.] In _Loando_ the Governor for the _Dutch_, nam’d _Cornelis Niewland_, and the _Portuguese_ Governor _Peter Cæsar de Meneses_, came to this Agreement, That since the ten years Peace was concluded on between the _Portuguese_ and _Netherlanders_, _Meneses_ should possess the Countrey wash’d by the River _Bengo_, and call in the ancient Natives to live and Trade as formerly; all which was faithfully perform’d: nay, _Meneses_ furnish’d _Niewland_ with as much Meal as he requir’d, towards the maintaining of a thousand _Negro_’s, whom he had bought; and the _Hollanders_ and _Portugueses_ began now to be every day more and more friendly and familiar with each other, when on a sudden _Niewland_ not onely remembring what was done lately on the Islands _Maragnan_ and St. _Thomas_, but also stirr’d up by other later Actions, which gave him occasion of jealousie, sent two hundred Musquetteers in the Night from _Loando_, to take the Governor _Meneses_, with some others, who he fear’d might make an Insurrection. The Soldiers accordingly about Day-break fell unawares upon the sleeping _Portugueses_, kill’d forty of them, and carry’d _Meneses_ and many other Persons of Quality away Prisoners, together with a Booty valu’d at above ten thousand _Ducats_, and sent a hundred and sixty _Portugueses_ in an old leaky Vessel to St. _Salvador_; but they being toss’d to and again at Sea for a considerable time, eight of them dy’d, the rest almost starv’d, Landed on _Pernambuco_; where _Simon Alvares de la Benho_ being amaz’d to see his Countrey-men thus hardly dealt with, complain’d of _Niewland_, _Mols_, and _Cross_, who were the chief of _Loando_, that they had broke the Laws, and the sworn Articles of Peace; urging that it would be very unjust that the poor _Portugueses_ should not have Satisfaction for the Wrong which they had sustain’d, as also for the loss of their Goods. To which _Grave Maurice_ answer’d, “That _Loando_ belong’d to the _West-India_ Company, and that for his part he had nothing to do with that City, but that if the _States_ were acquainted therewith, they would without doubt be highly concern’d at it.” _Christopher Santches_, a free _Negro_, gave information of the sad Condition of the Island St. _Thomas_, _viz._ That the greatest part of the _Hollanders_ that had been left upon that Island being dead, _Pirez_ hereupon with the King’s Consent fitted out two Ships, and setting Sail from _Lisbon_ about the beginning of _July_ 1642. first refus’d to pay the usual Custom at the Island St. _Thomas_, afterwards fell upon the _Hollanders_, whom he Besieg’d in the Castle, and against the Law of Arms poyson’d all the Waters. To prevent the future Inconveniences that were likely to arise from a Famine which about this time afflicted the whole Countrey of _Brasile, Grave Maurice_ judg’d it convenient to sell the Lands in the _Alagoas_ to new Planters; to which purpose _Henrick Moucheron_ was chosen Overseer, to take care that all the Fields about _Porto Calvo_, and along the River _Francisco_, as also in the _Alagoas_, should be Sow’n with Bread-Corn. [Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ takes his leave of the several Governors in _Brasile_.] _Grave Maurice_ obtaining leave at last to go home, took Leave by Letters of the Governors of _Serinhain_, _Porto Calvo_, _Iguarazua_, _Itamaraca_, _Parayba_, _Rio Grande_, and in Person of the Council at _Reciffa_, who all thank’d him for his prudent Government, manifesting their hearty sorrow for his departure, _Which without doubt would produce many Inconveniences_. But though the Council of the _West-India_ Company had order’d him to return home about the beginning of _March_ 1643. yet he went not so soon, because he was to reduce the number of _Militia_ to eighteen Companies, and also to settle the Revenues, and dispose of Offices, in which he found much trouble; wherefore before his departure he wrote to the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_, assuring them how impossible it was to defend _Brasile_, which extended some hundreds of Leagues, with so small a number of Men, since the _Portuguese_ cover’d inward malice under a feigned shew of kindness, and at the same time watch’d all opportunities to drive the _Netherlanders_ from their Plantations, being very much exasperated by the priviledge of Religion granted to the _Jews_, whilest their Monks and Jesuits were banish’d. Moreover, in regard they ow’d the _West-India_ Company above fifty nine Tuns of Gold, they sought to cancel that Obligation, by making themselves Masters of whatsoever their Creditors had in _Brasile_, so that there was no way but to keep them under by force of Arms. [Sidenote: He leaves the Government and returns home.] After _Grave Maurice_ had sent this Letter to _Holland_, he left the Government of _Brasile_ to the chief Council, the _Militia_ to _Henrick Hoes_, Captain of his Life-guard, with Directions for Governing after his departure. Having setled all things in good order, he went from _Maurice-stadt_ through _Paratibi_ and _Iguarazu_ to _Parayba_; where _Janduy_ sent him three of his Sons, with twenty _Tapuyans_, desiring him not to go away; two of them with several _Carapates_ and _Waypebarans_, (a People who made themselves Masters of the great _Palmares_) and five other _Brasilians_ went aboard with him on the twentieth of _May_ 1644. The Fleet, consisting of thirteen Ships, and Mann’d with fourteen hundred Men of all sorts, was laden with so many Merchandizes as were valu’d at twenty six Tuns of Gold; with which _Grave Maurice_ arriving at the _Texel_, Landed at the _Helder_, and gave an Account of his Government in _Brasile_, and of the then present state of that part of it which belong’d to the _West-India_ Company. [Sidenote: Ill management of Affairs after _Maurice_ his departure.] [Sidenote: _Viera_’s Treachery.] After _Grave Maurice_’s departure, _Hamel_, _Bassi_, and _Bullestraet_, bore the chief Command in _Brasile_: The Charges made by the War were mitigated, and the number of the Soldiers in Garrison reduc’d to sixteen hundred; some Forts lay without a Man in them, whilest the King of _Portugal_ watch’d for such an opportunity; for he seem’d to be as much concern’d for that Countrey, as for his Kingdom of _Portugal_, and the rather, because his Predecessor _Sebastian_ receiv’d above forty hundred thousand _Ducats_ yearly out of the same, besides the Presents and other Gains made by the _Portuguese_; wherefore he gave order to the Governor of St. _Salvador_ to be very vigilant, and assur’d him, that in a short time he would send him both Men and Provisions. A _Mulatto_ call’d _John Fernandes Viera_, did not a little assist the _Portuguese_ in their Design; for he having liv’d a considerable time in a Councellors House in _Reciffa_, had narrowly observ’d all Passages, and insinuated himself into several Statesmens Affairs, by Presenting them now and then with some Rarities, insomuch that he came in time to Farm the Rents which the _West-India_ Company receiv’d from the Sugar-Mills; but at length being discontented because the Council would not make any abatement upon the same, when he complain’d that he lost by Farming the fore-mention’d Tax, he held private Correspondence with _Andreas Vidal_, that when a convenient opportunity presented it self for the _Portuguese_ to fall on the _Hollanders_, he might be assisting; to which end he had gotten several Arms and Ammunition together. In this Plot a _Jew_ nam’d _Moses Accoignes_, living in _Viera_’s House, a League from _Reciffa_, to keep him from Arrests, was perswaded to joyn, which he seemingly promis’d to do; but went away by Day-break, and discover’d the Design to the Privy-Council, who being rock’d asleep by the _Portugueses_ fair Pretences, gave no credit to the Relation. [Sidenote: A Plot against the _Netherlanders_ to be carry’d on by a Wedding.] [Sidenote: The Plot discover’d by some of the Conspirators.] For the better carrying on of this Design, _Cavalcantelca_, Provost-Marshal in _Maurice-stadt_ made a great Wedding for his Daughter in _Viera_’s House, to which the chiefest Persons of Quality, both of the _Portuguese_, and also all the Privy-Councellors and Military Officers belonging to the _West-India_ Company were invited: and the Plot was so contriv’d, that whilest they were all at Dinner, the _Portuguese_ were suddenly to fall upon the _Netherlanders_ and kill them, both Servants and Masters; this done, some were to go to _Reciffa_ or _Maurice-stadt_, with news that the Wedding People were coming; whereupon part were to press into the City, others to keep the Gates, till all their Forces were come thither, which then might easily secure and seize upon the Magazine: some Barques also under pretence of loading Sugar, were in the mean time to set upon the Haven and Fort near the Shore. All things were accordingly prepar’d for the Wedding, nothing being wanting that could be purchas’d with Money, and near the Forts of _Rio Grande_ and _Parayba_ were Stage-plays to be Acted in publick, it being concluded that the Soldiers in Garrison would certainly be there to see them; the Actors being privately Arm’d with Pistols and Ponyards. And to oblige one another the more for the carrying on of this bloody Design, _Viera_ had caus’d the chief Conspirators to take an Oath before the high Altar. The twenty fourth of _June_ 1645. was the Day on which this Tragedy was to be acted; but a few days before two _Portugueses_ and five _Jews_, who had been sworn Confederates, their Consciences checking them for so villanous an Undertaking, made an ingenuous Discovery of the Plot. The Councellor _Moucheron_ was also inform’d, that the _Portuguese_ Colonel _Camaron_ and _Diez_ were coming with great Forces from St. _Salvador_. [Sidenote: _Viera_ flies into the Wood.] The Council when they might easily have apprehended _Viera_, sent for him by a _Jew_ call’d _Abraham Coing_, under pretence of Treating about some Business concerning the _West-India_ Company; he promis’d to come in the Evening, but suspecting he was betray’d, fled into the Woods, and gave speedy notice to all his Accomplices, who follow’d him in great numbers. The Soldiers sent to search _Viera_’s House, found none but old Men and Children. The Councellor _Van Houten_ went immediately with seven Sugar-Vessels to _Parayba_, fortifi’d the Forts _Margareta_, _Restringa_, and _Antonio_, and made room for the _Brasilians_ that had remov’d thither from their Villages, in the Houses deserted by the _Portuguese_ in _Frederick-stadt_. On the other side, _Amador da Rouge_, one of the Conspirators, went with a Company from _Poiouca_ through the Countrey, kill’d seven _Dutch_ Seamen, with three _Jews_, and erected Gibbets, on which he threatned to hang all those who did not take up Arms for the King of _Portugal_. Colonel _Hous_ inform’d hereof march’d with five hundred Men to _Poiuca_ to meet the _Portuguese_, who were scatter’d up and down the neighboring Woods. He also publish’d an Edict, in which every one was Licens’d to return to their Habitations, with promise of pardon for their Rebellion, if they would take the Oath of Allegiance anew, onely _Viera_, _Cavalcantelca_, and _Da Rouge_, were excluded, and nine thousand _Guilders_ promis’d to those that brought them dead or alive, which made two hundred Inhabitants in _Reciffa_ march into the Countrey under the Command of Captain _Blar_, to find the fore-mention’d Traitors; and at last joyning with _Hous_, they pursu’d the fled _Portuguese_. [Sidenote: _Hoogenstraet_ sent to Treat with _Antonio Silva_, is privately tempted by him to deliver up the Fort _St. Augustine_.] In the mean time the Council sent the Captains _Vander Voort_ and _Hoogenstraet_, to _Antonio Silva_, Governor of St. _Salvador_, to acquaint him with the treacherous Insurrection of the _Portuguese_, and of _Camaron_ and _Diez_ coming from St. _Salvador_ to their assistance, urging, that these treacherous Proceedings and breach of Oath, could not but redound to the dishonor of the Crown of _Portugal_. Whereto _Silva_ answer’d, “That _Camaron_ and _Diez_ were not under any Obligation of Oath, but that he would check the Insurrection in _Pernambuco_, and take care that the Authors thereof should make Satisfaction to the _West-India_ Company.” Notwithstanding which fair Pretences, he so wrought with _Hoogenstraet_, that after a private Conference between them it was agreed, that for a certain sum of Money he should surrender him the Promontory of St. _Augustine_, of which he was Governor; but at his Return to _Reciffa_ being made chief Commander of the Castle there, and being jealous what might follow his private Treating with _Silva_, he declar’d to the Council, that _Silva_ had desir’d him to surrender the Fort St. _Augustine_, which he had granted, for no other end, but to catch the false _Portuguese_ in their own Nets, and to trapan all such as should be sent to take possession of it; and that if the Council had any suspicion of him, they might make use of his Service in some other place. About this time a hundred and fifty _Tapuyans_, led by a _German_ Soldier call _Jacob Rabbi_, Sallying out of their Woods, fell upon the great Village _Conyahou_, under the Jurisdiction of _Rio Grande_, broke into the Church, murder’d all the _Portuguese_, and eating their raw Flesh, demolish’d the Place. _Hous_ also unfortunately Storm’d the Mountain _Santantan_, where the Enemy lay Intrench’d, being forc’d to Retreat with the loss of above a hundred Men, amongst whom was Captain _Lo_. [Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ his stately Palace demolish’d.] The Privy Council caus’d a part of _Maurice-stadt_ to be pull’d down, as also the stately Palace _Freyburgh_, for which the _Jews_ proffer’d _Grave Maurice_ 6000 _l._ together with the stately Garden, which were thought to exceed the famous Gardens in _Thessalia_; but on the other side they kept Men at work Night and Day in repairing the decay’d Castle at _Reciffa_. [Sidenote: _Bonavides_ appears with a great Fleet before _Reciffa_, but pretends Friendship.] About the same time the Admiral _Salvador Correo de Bonavides_, brought thirty four great Sail of Ships to an Anchor before _Reciffa_, the Gallion which he Commanded carrying sixty Brass Guns. The Admiral _Lichthart_ ran to meet him with five Vessels, and sent him word, that if he fell down to Leeward, since he was got to the Windward, he should soon find, that five Ships durst Engage with a Fleet six times as strong. Whereupon _Bonavides_ sent two Messengers to _Lichthart_ to tell him, that he came as a Friend to damp the _Portuguese_ Insurrection in _Pernambuco_; to which purpose he had already Landed some Companies at _Tamandera_. _Lichthart_ sending the two Messengers to the Council at _Reciffa_, they sent two of their own Members to _Bonavides_, desiring to know of him what call’d him thither with so great a Fleet, and without giving the least notice, contrary to the concluded Peace of ten years? [Illustration: SERINHAIM.] [Illustration: _The Names of the Ships both of the_ Dutch _and_ Portuguese _Fleet_. _A._ The _Portuguese_ Admiral. _B._ Their Vice-Admiral. _C._ The rest of their Ships. _D._ Three of their Barques. _E._ Three Carvels, which lay to watch in the Bay. _F._ The Enemy’s Battery. _G._ The _Utrecht_, being the _Dutch_ Admiral. _H._ The _Ter Veer_. _I._ The _Zealand_ Vice-Admiral. _K._ The _Over-Ysel_. _L._ _Salt-Land_ Pink. _M._ The _Golden Deer_ Frigat. _N O._ The _Leyden_ Pink, and _Unicorn_ Frigat. _P Q._ A Dogger and three _Netherland_ Barques. ] Whilest the two Commissioners went with the fore-mention’d Orders to the _Portuguese_ Fleet, a _Netherland_ Vessel endeavor’d, notwithstanding the Wind was contrary, to get out to _Lichthart_’s assistance; which _Bonavides_ observing, stood away Northerly before the Wind: but _Lichthart_ overtook a Ketch belonging to the _Portuguese_ Fleet. [Sidenote: _Serinhain_ taken by _Vidal_ and others.] Mean while the _Portuguese_ upon Land being two thousand strong, under the Command of _Vidal_, _Diez_, _Camaron_, and _Acoignes_, Storm’d the Fort _Serinhain_, where the _French_ Captain _Montagne_ could make but little resistance, not having above forty Men, and being unprovided of Ammunition and Provision; yet he resisted nine days, and at last got two Barques to convey him to _Reciffa_. Soon after this the _Portuguese_ Fleet falling out amongst themselves, _Bonavides_ Steer’d back for _Lisbon_ with a few Ships, the rest coming to an Anchor again near _Reciffa_; where the Seamen whom _Lichthart_ had taken inform’d him, that their Fleet came the first time to _Reciffa_ for no other end, but to stir up the _Portuguese_ by their Presence to take up Arms, according to a private Contract, having to that purpose Landed twelve hundred Men at _Tamandera_, besides the Army led by _Camaron_ and _Diez_ from St. _Salvador_ to _Pernambuco_. Colonel _Hous_ about this time being sent for back to _Reciffa_, and staying with five hundred Men for Captain _Blaek_’s coming, who was sent to fetch all the _Portuguese_ Women within three Leagues about _Reciffa_, was set upon in the Night by _Vidal_ with two thousand _Portugueses_; the _Brasilians_, who were above half his Forces, flying into the Woods, leaving onely two hundred _Netherlanders_ to fight with _Vidal_, by whom being so much over-power’d, they were forc’d to submit to his mercy, and suffer themselves to be all carry’d Prisoners to St. _Salvador_. By this time at _Reciffa_ all things were in a confusion, the Pits digg’d about _Maurice-stadt_ afforded nothing but brackish Water, which occasion’d Sickness. [Sidenote: The Fort St. _Augustine_ treacherously surrendered by _Hoogenstraet_ to the _Portuguese_.] _Vidal_ encourag’d by his Victory, march’d to St. _Augustine_, where without doubt he had stopt, if _Hoogenstraet_, who had the chief Command of the Fort, had not been Disloyal; for this Traitor thought it not enough to surrender this invincible Fort to the Enemy, but also bereav’d _Reciffa_ of Provisions and Ammunition, which he did very subtilly, sending earnestly thither for Souldiers, Bullets, Powder and Shot, in lieu whereof he sent thither two Barques full of old Men, Women and Children, that so he might deprive _Reciffa_ of stout Men, and supply their room with unable People. For this treacherous and villanous Act the _Portuguese_ were to give him 1800 _l._ and make him a Colonel: Moreover, all the Soldiers in Garrison, consisting of three hundred Men, receiv’d 3 _l._ a Man, and were sent to joyn with a Regiment of six hundred and fifty Men, over which _Hoogenstraet_ was made chief Commander. [Sidenote: _Lichthart_ gains a noble Victory over the _Portuguese_ Fleet.] The day before this eminent Castle was to be deliver’d up to the Enemy, Admiral _Lichthart_ obtain’d a brave Victory at Sea; for the _Portuguese_ Fleet (consisting of seventeen Sail, the rest being gone with _Bonavides_ to _Portugal_) anchoring before _Tamandera_, were valiantly set upon by _Lichthart_, who Engag’d with them on the ninth of _September_ 1645. with the _Utrecht_, being the Admiral Ship, the _Zealand_, _Ter Veer_, _Over-Ysel_, the Pinks _Salt-Land_ and _Leyden_, a Dogger and three Barques. In the Hole of the Haven _Tamandera_ three _Portuguese_ Carvels kept Watch, and near a Battery full of Guns lay three Barques, and the other Ships a little farther nigh the Shore. The Enemy at first shot very fiercely from the Battery, whilest the Ships drove to the Shore, and the Men leaping overboard swam ashore, onely the Admiral _Jeronymo Serao de Payva_ made some resistance, but at last surrendred up his Ship, the _Netherlanders_ in their Barques killing above seven hundred _Portugueses_ in the Water. _Lichthart_ burnt the whole Fleet, except the Admiral and Vice-Admiral, which he carry’d to _Reciffa_. But this Victory was not comparable to the Loss which the _East-India_ Company sustain’d by the selling of the Promontory of St. _Augustine_, and the taking of the Forts _Porto Calvo_ and _Rio Francisco_; to the last whereof the Barques coming too late to carry the Soldiers off, they were all made Prisoners by the _Portuguese_, as also the Planters, in all to the number of five hundred. [Sidenote: _Bouilloux_ put to Death by the Governor of _Parayba_.] _Vidal_ marching to _Tamarica_, Storm’d _Schuppen-stadt_, but found such resistance from _George Garstman_ (who supply’d the Prisoner _Hous_ his Place) that he lost three hundred Men: After which he endeavor’d by means of _Fernandes Bouilloux_, to purchase the Fort _Margareta_ for 1500 l. _Sterl._ of the Governor of _Parayba_, who immediately without any farther Examination, caus’d _Bouilloux_ that proffer’d the Money to be put to death. A _Dutch_ Sergeant in _Olinda_ dealt very treacherously; for he sold the Fort to a _Portuguese_ Ensign for 100 _l._ and also most basely betray’d all his Soldiers Lives to the merciless Enemy. [Sidenote: The distressed Condition of _Reciffa_.] By these means _Reciffa_ was round about in jeopardy, as also within; for the great Thirst of the Inhabitants under a scorching Climate, augmented by the _Hollanders_ salt Meat, could not be quench’d with brackish Water, for fresh was not to be had; Famine also increas’d daily, insomuch that the Poor threatned to fall upon the Rich, which made the Magistrates go Arm’d from House to House, to enquire what Store every one had, which being writ down was carry’d away and put into the Store-houses, where each receiv’d alike share, without respect of Persons. Fewel also grew very scarce, which made many eat their Meat raw, or half dress’d. In the interim every one that was able, was forc’d to work at the Forts of _Reciffa_, which were beaten down by the Rains; and the Soldiers continually alarm’d by the Enemy, were forc’d to be Night and Day up in Arms. The People dy’d more and more daily, when two Fly-Boats arriv’d there with Provisions, and News, that a Fleet was coming to their assistance. The Captains _Rhynbag_ and _Montagne_ went in the Night, each with a Company, to fall upon the Enemy, who being two thousand five hundred strong, drove them back, and pursu’d them within shot of the _Afogados_, where forty _Portugueses_ were kill’d. About the same time a _Terra Neuf_ Sailor, laden with the dry’d Fish _Bocraillo_, came to _Reciffa_. In _Parayba_ three hundred _Netherlanders_ Sallying out of the Forts, fell so valiantly upon nine hundred _Portugueses_, that they forc’d them to flye, not without a considerable loss. After which a Party of _Brasilians_ surpris’d eighty _Portugueses_, as they were at _Mass_ in _Andreas Diez de la Figuereda_’s Sugar-Mills, where they spar’d none but _Figuereda_’s Daughter, whose Beauty so charm’d them, that they comforted her mourning for her Father’s Death, and deliver’d her undefil’d to the Governor of _Parayba_. [Sidenote: The barbarous Cruelty of _Vidal_.] _Vidal_ raging for madness because now and then some of his Prisoners escap’d, caus’d several of them to be cruelly murder’d, tying some of them Back to Back, and then cutting them in pieces; others he threw with Stones ty’d about their Necks into the Rivers; others he ty’d by their Privities, and hung them upon Trees; and also knock’d out the Brains of others. [Sidenote: The Soldiers at _Reciffa_ mutiny for want of Provision.] In _Reciffa_ the Soldiers, consisting of divers Nations, began likewise to mutiny, crying, _They should be all starv’d_; and saying, _They had better be slain in the Field fighting against the Enemy, than die of Hunger in the City_. They also complain’d, _The Commissioners themselves betray_ Brasile; and threatned by force to fetch the Provisions out of the publick Stores, saying, _They had long enough endur’d Thirst and Hunger_. [Sidenote: A new Fleet sent by the _States_ to _Brasile_.] [Sidenote: The _Dutch_ Fleet set out for _Brasile_.] These Transactions in _Brasile_ were very ill resented in _Holland_, the common People in the _Hague_ being ready to pull down the _Portuguese_ Ambassador’s House, in revenge of the Cruelties exercis’d upon the _Netherlanders_ in _Brasile_, had they not been hindred by the Prudence of Prince _Henrick_. The Ambassador pretending to be ignorant of the fore-mention’d Passages, proffer’d to make what Satisfaction the _West-India_ Company should require. But the _States_ not satisfi’d with Excuses, when the Actions plainly manifested what their Intentions were, Complain’d to the _French_ King of the unthankful and malicious Dealings of the _Portuguese_ Crown; and meeting but with small Redress, they prepar’d to right themselves by force of Arms, and to that end rais’d several Regiments of Land-Soldiers, besides Seamen, to send to _Brasile_. The Fleet design’d thither, consisting of twenty two Sail, after it had been frozen up before _Flushing_ three Moneths, set Sail at last in the beginning of _February_, Anno 1646. with the Lord _Schonenburgh_, a Member of the _States_, the Councellor _Goch_, and Treasurer _Beaumond_, Men very well experienc’d in Governing of Countreys: To these were added the eminent Merchants of _Amsterdam_, _Haeks_ and _Trovire_, to keep the _West-India_ Companies Accounts, and _Le Heremiet_ for their Secretary. _Sigismond Schuppe_ bore the chief Command over the _Militia_, and the Admiral _Bankert_ over the Fleet, which suffer’d the greatest hardship imaginable; for being driven by tempestuous Winds into the _Downs_, two of them driving from their Anchors were cast away on the _Flats_. The Fleet getting out again, was once more forc’d by a Storm to put in at the _Isle of Wight_; from whence by reason of continual Gusts they could not stir in nine Weeks time. During this tedious waiting for a fair Wind, the _Brasile_ Frigat, valu’d at 20000 _l._ was split in pieces against a Rock of the Island, and of three hundred Men thirty onely were sav’d. A Pink, which came in two Moneths from _Reciffa_, brought also sad tydings to the Fleet, _viz._ That the Town was in such a Condition, that without doubt the Fleet would come too late to their assistance: whereupon they making the more haste, endeavor’d, not without great trouble, to weigh Anchor again, whilest the Wind rose higher and higher, and the Waves going very hollow, drove the Ships down towards _Portland_ Coast, full of Rocks, to which they were so near, that they saw a _Scotch_man split in pieces against them; and had not the Wind come about, and abated of its fury, the Fleet had undoubtedly perish’d. No sooner was this Danger past, but another succeeded; for the Soldiers in the Admirals Ship complaining of the small allowance they had of Cheese, Brandy, and Tobacco, had made themselves Masters of the Store-room, and threatned to kill the Lords _Goch_ and _Beaumond_; but they, assisted with Men from the other Ships, who came in at the Cabbin Windows, so order’d the Mutineers, that they ask’d forgiveness, which for many Reasons was granted, onely they were distributed by seven in a Ship throughout the whole Fleet. After a great Contest between _Goch_ and _Beaumond_ about carrying the Flag, which could not be decided, _Goch_ was left by the rest of the Fleet, who Steer’d another Course, and getting near the _Line_, lay becalm’d six days; in which time he lost very many of his Men by a strange kind of _Scorbute_ which rag’d amongst them; at last Sailing along the Promontory of St. _Augustine_, he came to an Anchor before _Reciffa_, which he found in the greatest Exigency imaginable, insomuch that it was resolv’d upon, the next day to surrender the Place up to the _Portuguese_, on promise of Quarter onely: which Resolution none oppos’d more than the _Jews_; for the _Portuguese_ swore that they would burn them alive, if ever they became Masters of _Reciffa_, which made them resolve to die with the Sword in their Hands, and sell their Lives at a dear rate. Six Weeks after _Gochs_ Arrival, the remaining part of the Fleet, escaping many dreadful Storms, in which, besides the two that were lost in the _Downs_, they lost five Ships and five hundred Men, arriv’d also at _Reciffa_; where the Commissioners appointed Officers to distribute to every one their certain allowance of Victuals. The prime Councellor _Schonenburgh_ also decided the Difference between _Beaumond_ and _Goch_, as also between _Haeks_ and _Trovire_, about their Places in the Assembly, _viz._ that they should sit above one another by Turns. The old Governors, _Hamel_, _Bassi_, and _Bullestraet_, were blam’d by every one for the decay of _Brasile_; and being sent to _Holland_, were receiv’d with frowning Looks, and rail’d against in Pamphlets as faithless Persons, who sought nothing but their own advantage, and were threatned to be call’d to an Account. It was also laid to their charge, that they had not given a true Account of the State and Condition of _Brasile_; that the State was much more decay’d than they had made known, by which means the present Power prov’d too weak to do any thing to the Enemy. [Sidenote: _Garstman_ Fin’d and Disgrac’d upon King _Dary_’s Complaint.] Amongst other Misfortunes which befell the _West-India_ Company, the Revolt of the _Tapuyans_ and other _Brasilians_ was not the least, which hapned upon the occasion of _Garstman_’s putting to Death of _Jacob Rabbi_, a _German_, and indeed their chief Ringleader in all Robberies and Villanies; but _Dary_ their then King alledging that _Rabbi_ was wrongfully Executed by _Garstman_, and that his Tryal belong’d to him as King, prosecuted _Garstman_ so vigorously, that he and his Ensign _Jacob Boulan_, his Accessory in the Fact, had their Goods and Salary confiscated, and they themselves were sent home in disgrace. [Sidenote: The _Portuguese_ Invitation prevails above the _Netherlanders_.] Mean while the Council seeing that there was not much good to be done by force of Arms, endeavor’d by mild ways to invite the revolted _Portugueses_, who were all promis’d Pardon for their Insurrection in an Edict which was publish’d in all places, onely _Viera_, _Almado_, _De Rouche_, _Antonio Calvantelca_, and _Hoogenstraet_, for whom great sums of Money were offer’d, were excepted. The _Portuguese_ on the contrary publish’d, That they would receive all those _Netherlanders_ into favor that would come over to them, and pay the Debts which they ow’d to the _West-India_ Company, and also Transport them whither they pleas’d. These Promises, written in _English_, _Dutch_, _French_, and _Portuguese_, and hung every where on the Boughs of Trees, and other publick Places, operated much more than the Privy-Councils Edicts; for in stead of one _Portuguese_ that came to them, several ran to the _Portuguese_ from _Reciffa_, notwithstanding a strict Guard was kept to prevent them, besides the great mortality amongst the Soldiers and Inhabitants through several raging Distempers, and want of fresh Provisions: Which general Calamity, it seems, very much cow’d the Spirits of those that were left; for in a Sally meeting with five hundred _Portugueses_, notwithstanding they were equal in number, yet they made a shameful Retreat; yea, though _Schuppe_ came with eight hundred Men to their assistance, yet he could not prevail with them to face about either by fair means or foul, for with his own hand he Ran-through an Ensign, Sergeant, and two Soldiers, who ran away first. Yet notwithstanding this base and cowardly Retreat, it was resolv’d on to set upon _Olinda_ and the Promontory St. _Augustine_; and at the same time _Hinderson_ was sent to make himself Master of _Rio Francisco_ with fifteen hundred Men, and to harrase all the Countrey thereabouts with Fire and Sword, that so he might force the _Portuguese_ to leave _Reciffa_. [Sidenote: Revolt of the _Tapuyans_.] Though _John Dary_, King of the _Tapuyans_, seem’d well enough contented with the punishment of _Garstman_, yet a great Party of his Subjects were not satisfi’d, but went and joyn’d with the _Portuguese_, because _Garstman_ had not been deliver’d to them in _Siara_, where they kill’d all the _Netherlanders_ they could meet with, and sent Presents to their King _Dary_, if possible, to oblige him to joyn with the _Portuguese_: But he reply’d, _That he had more reason to punish them for their ill usage of the Inhabitants in_ Siara, _than to have any thing to do with the_ Portuguese. The Council inform’d hereof, sent the Interpreter _Ralph Baron_, who had a long time Convers’d with the _Tapuyans_, with a Present of Axes, Knives, Looking-glasses, Shirts, Combs, and the like Trifles, to King _Dary_, desiring him to continue his former kindness towards the _Hollanders_; which _Dary_ promis’d, provided he might receive Assistance from _Reciffa_ against those whom he had made his Enemies for the _Netherlanders_ sake; which _Baron_ promis’d should be done as soon as the fresh Forces which were daily expected from the _Texel_, _Maes_, and _Zealand_, came to _Brasile_. [Sidenote: The Fort of _Rio Grande_ taken by _Hinderson_.] [Sidenote: Capt. _Montagne_ overpower’d by the Enemy, and slain.] _Hinderson_ Landing at _Rio Grande_, took the Fort without firing a Gun, the _Portuguese_ at his first coming flying into the Woods. He found here abundance of Cattel; for no place in the World breeds more than this, several Husbandmen having fifteen thousand Head of Beasts, of which many were taken to supply the want of Provisions at _Reciffa_. As soon as he had taken the Fort, he caus’d it to be pull’d down to the Ground, because it stood in an inconvenient place, and immediately rais’d another, which was much better to be defended, by reason of the rising Ground; but he could neither bring that Work, nor any other Design to any perfection, because of the treachery of his Soldiers, who being most of them _Roman-Catholicks_, were so inclin’d to the _Portuguese_ Interest, that they daily more and more deserted the Companies Service, and gave Intelligence to the Enemy of their Transactions. Amongst others, an _Antwerper_ was apprehended for an Intelligencer, and being Hang’d on a Gibbet, fell three times one after another on his Feet, the Halter breaking like a burnt Thred, which gave him so many times of respit and opportunity of supplicating for Life; but his Crime was too hainous to admit of Pardon. Mean while the fled _Portugueses_ being supply’d with fresh Supplies from all Places, especially from St. _Salvador_, to the number of twelve hundred Men, they kill’d the Out-watches, consisting of twenty Men: The next Sentinel being warn’d by the noise, alarm’d the new Fort, which was scarce finish’d, because a mighty Shower of Rain had wash’d away the Walls. _Hinderson_ being wounded in the Leg, sent Captain _Montagne_ against the Enemy, of whose Power he was sensible; yet going to the place where the Watch that was kill’d had kept their Station, he met with two hundred _Portugueses_, divided into three Companies, and drawn out for Battel, who running away were pursu’d by _Montagne_, till coming up to their Regiment, which consisted in all of a thousand Men, divided into five Companies, they fell on all sides upon _Montagne_, who fighting valiantly, was overpower’d and kill’d, with three hundred of his Men, and almost as many more taken Prisoners; amongst whom was the Minister _Astette_, four hundred onely escaping into the Fort, where _Hinderson_ stay’d expecting the event of _Montagne_’s Exploits. This Defeat spoil’d _Schuppe_’s Design, who by his marching to _Rio Francisco_ thought to draw the Enemy from _Reciffa_; but now being forc’d to think of some other way, he thought it convenient to invade St. _Salvador_ by Sea, as the Enemy had done _Reciffa_ by Land. Wherefore _Hinderson_ receiv’d order to stay with six hundred Men (being all that were left of fifteen hundred,) on _Rio Grande_, whither a Barque with Provisions being sent, was taken, and the Men in cool Blood kill’d by the _Portuguese_. [Sidenote: _Schuppe_’s Victory on the Island _Taperica_.] [Sidenote: _Lichthart_’s Death.] At the same time it was given out, that _Schuppe_ was going with the Admiral _Bankert_ to _Hinderson_’s assistance; and to delude the _Portuguese_ the more, _Schuppe_ went with two thousand five hundred Men to _Rio Francisco_, where he lay some days at an Anchor; upon which the Governor of St. _Salvador_ sending several Companies thither, _Schuppe_ Sail’d with all speed to St. _Salvador_, and Landing on the Island _Taperica_, four Leagues in circumference, he got a rich Booty, and spar’d none whome’re he met with, insomuch that two thousand were destroy’d, some by the Sword upon the place, others by their haste to get over to St. _Salvador_; for most of the Vessels being too full, sunk with them. Amongst the Prisoners that were taken and sent to _Reciffa_, were two Monks, who were design’d the same Entertainment as the Minister _Astette_ should receive in St. _Salvador_; whereupon they immediately wrote to their Fraternity, to take care that _Astette_ should not be burnt alive, as the _Portuguese_ had threatned, because they were to expect the same usage: whereupon _Astette_ was set at liberty, and had leave to walk up and down the Streets of St. _Salvador_. _Schuppe_ fortifi’d himself on _Taperica_, near an Inlet under the new Works, and together with _Lichthart_ watch’d for all _Portuguese_ Vessels: But _Lichthart_ dying here, was carry’d to _Reciffa_, and there bury’d. On the other side, the Governor of St. _Salvador_ sent fifteen hundred Men in the Night to the other side of _Taperica_, where with all speed they Intrench’d themselves, and Sally’d daily out of their Works upon _Schuppe_, so that many Men were lost on both sides; but _Schuppe_ was in the worst Condition, in regard his Soldiers ran over in great numbers to St. _Salvador_, where they were well Entertain’d; of which he advertis’d the Privy-Council, who were the less able to give him Redress, as having the same cause of Complaint. [Illustration] [Sidenote: A pitiful Example of a young Soldiers Execution.] Amongst others there hapned a sad Accident of a young Soldier, scarce sixteen years old, and born at _Roan_, who having robb’d his Father’s Cash, went in a Ship to _Holland_; where he lavishly spending the Money, was forc’d at last to List himself in the _West-India_ Companies Service, and coming with the fore-mention’d Fleet to _Reciffa_, endeavor’d with two Companies to run to the _Portuguese_; but overtaken, was Try’d for the Fact, and Condemn’d to be Hang’d, for none of his Excuses which he made, of going over the River onely to fetch some Oranges and Lemmons to refresh himself, would save him, nor his protesting that he had no intention of going to the Enemy, nor the Promise that his Father should release him for ten thousand Crowns, nor his Minority, which ought chiefly to have been consider’d, but that Necessity stopt the Ears of the Compassionate; so that his Execution drew pity from the Beholders a few Weeks after. [Sidenote: A notable Passage of a _Portuguese_, Executed for Treason.] A very astonishing Passage hapned at _Reciffa_ upon another Sentence of Death pronounc’d against a _Portuguese_, who after the publication of the Act of Pardon came to _Reciffa_, and there hir’d a Seaman for two hundred Crowns, to carry a Letter, made up in a Leaden Box, to the Governor of the Promontory of St. _Augustine_, with order that if he was set upon any where, he should throw the Box into the Water. The Letter written in strange Characters, contain’d a Declaration of the small number of Men in _Reciffa_, most of the _Netherlanders_ Forces lying on the Island _Taperica_, so that if _Reciffa_ were Storm’d along the Bank, and from _Maurice-stadt_, it might easily be taken. This Letter being intercepted, the _Portuguese_ was taken and Condemn’d, and as he was carrying to the Place of Execution cry’d aloud, _You People take delight in my Death, but you shall be interrupted_; and indeed it hapned accordingly: for when the Executioner began to scorch the half-strangled Criminal with Straw, there sprung up a strange Spirit of Contention amongst the Spectators, who began to justle and strike one another; and soon after a Whirlwind rose in the midst of the Market-place, which in a moment caus’d them all to stagger like drunken People, their Hats and Caps were blown up into the Air, the whole multitude tumbling confusedly on the Ground, the Arm’d Soldiers flying to the next Houses, and the Executioner falling down in a Trance from the Scaffold: A full quarter of an hour this Confusion had lasted, when the People came to themselves again, and the Hangman return’d to his Business, cutting off the _Portuguese_’s Nose, Ears, Privy-Members, and tearing out his Heart, which he threw to two Dogs, who devour’d the same; then dividing the Body into Quarters, which were set up at the four Corners of the City for an Example. The same Punishment receiv’d a _Mulatto_, who endeavor’d to fire two of the _Hollanders_ best Ships in the Haven. Notwithstanding these Punishments, the Soldiers ran away daily; the blame whereof might justly be laid on the Magistrates, who took no notice of the Soldiers just Complaints of their Officers, cheating them of a third part of their Provision, and inflicting severe Punishments upon them as Mutineers, when they had real cause of Complaint. _Schuppe_ was at the same time shrewdly put to it for want of Men, who either dy’d of the then reigning Disease, or ran away to the Enemy; so that he was forced to leave the Island _Taperica_, and inclose himself within his new rais’d Sconce. [Sidenote: Admiral _Bankert_ gains a great Victory over the _Portuguese_ Fleet.] The Admiral _Bankert_ had better success; for Cruising up and down before the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, after the taking and sinking of several Ships as they came in his way, he at last set upon the _Portuguese_ Fleet, consisting of seven great Ships, of which one got to St. _Salvador_, another was sunk, and the other five were taken, being valu’d at twenty Tuns of Gold, or 200000 l. _Sterl._ In this Engagement were kill’d above four hundred _Portugueses_, besides two hundred and fifty who were taken Prisoners, and sent Shackled to _Reciffa_. Amongst them was the new Vice-Roy of _Brasile_, the Admiral, Vice-Admiral, three Monks, and several other Persons of note. [Sidenote: Marshal _Hous_ arrives at _Reciffa_ with a fresh Supply.] This Victory began to give some Breath to _Reciffa_, when at the same time Marshal _Hous_ arriv’d there with seven Ships, Mann’d with five hundred Soldiers. This _Hous_ on the seventeenth of _August_, Anno 1645. had been taken Prisoner at the _Engenho_ having fought so long till all his Powder was spent, so that he was forc’d to surrender himself upon promise of Quarter to _Vidal_, who after he had taken an Oath upon the _Bible_, to spare the Lives of all the _Hollanders_ and _Brasilians_ fell upon the _Brasilians_ and slew them, being a hundred in all, in Cold-blood, who yet sold their Lives at no easie rate. Being carry’d Prisoner, together with Captain _Bristow_, _Listry_, _Wildschut_, _Blar_, and two hundred more, by _Viera_ to _Casa de Prugar_, he was thence sent to _Portugal_, where being releas’d, he brought News to the _States_ of the mean Condition of the _West-India_ Company, and that all things must needs be lost, if they did not speedily take the Business into Consideration: Whereupon he was furnish’d with a Supply of Ships and Men, with which he set Sail for _Brasile_; where being arriv’d, most part of the Soldiers he brought with him were Transported to _Taperica_, to assist _Schuppe_; who as soon as they came to him, march’d into the Countrey; where being set upon by a thousand _Portugueses_, he lost sixty Men. Soon after _Hoogenstraet_ receiving Orders from the Governor of St. _Salvador_, who was inform’d by some Prisoners, that _Schuppe_ had not above twelve hundred fighting Men, to fall upon him with three thousand, made a furious Assault upon the Sconce in two places, and Storming the same for two hours together, lost four hundred Men, which made him draw off a little before Day-break. In the interim nine Privateers, fitted out by several Merchants of _Holland_ and _Zealand_, came to Cruise up and down before the Coast of _Brasile_; which the _States_ the rather allow’d of, because the _West-India_ Company was not able to send any more Supplies thither: Nor was it long ere they took five _Portuguese_ Prizes, and afterwards (joyning with _Bankert_) four more laden full of Sugar, in the Haven _Todos los Sanctos_, where they threw a hundred and twenty _Portuguese_, and fifty revolted _Hollanders_ overboard. [Sidenote: The Council of _Reciffa_ send over Messengers to represent the sad condition of the Place.] [Sidenote: _Bankert_’s Death and Character.] _Reciffa_ being at that time reduc’d to very great straits, earnestly implor’d Aid from the _States_, but to little purpose, by reason of the Differences amongst themselves, which hapned upon this occasion: The _Spanish_ King by his Agent in the _Hague_ made Overtures of Peace, and proffer’d to fall upon the _Portuguese_ in _Brasile_: to which Proposition, whenas the rest of the _States_ seem’d inclinable, those of _Zealand_ would no ways hearken, being resolv’d to have nothing to do with _Spain_. The news of this Dissention exceedingly perplex’d the Council at _Reciffa_, especially when to that news was added, that _Bankert_, the onely terror to the Enemy at Sea, was Commanded home by the _States_ of _Zealand_, which yet the _General States_ strictly forbad. Whereupon they thought fit to send one of their Assembly to the _Hague_, to make the _States_ acquainted with the miserable Condition of _Brasile_, and to Expostulate with them for their insensibility of their Condition, and to let them understand, that ten thousand Men would not restore _Brasile_ to its former Condition: Every one strove to be the Messenger of these sad tydings, but especially their President _Schonenbergh_ wish’d it might be his lot to leave the unhappy Countrey of _Brasile_; but because his departure would not have been without great murmuring of the People, _Haeks_ was sent in his stead. Together with him went _Hinderson_ (who was in no esteem since the Destruction on _Rio Grande_;) they both Embarqu’d on _Bankert_’s Ship and five others, which in stead of being laden with rich Commodities, and ballasted with Sugar, as heretofore, were fraught with discontented Seamen, decrepid and sick Soldiers, unserviceable _Jews_, poor Travellers, _Portuguese_ Prisoners, and onely ten Weeks Provisions; whereas all other Vessels at their Return from _Brasile_ us’d to have Provision for three Moneths, which at this time could not be spar’d. The Council also made Orders what Persons should go with the fore-mention’d Ships, _viz._ None but those whose Names were written in the Lists which had stuck six Weeks at every Church Door, that by that means no Creditor might suffer by his Debtors going away, nor any Criminal escape his deserved punishment. _Bankert_ had scarce been a Week at Sea, when he dy’d of the Palsie: he was a Man, who for his valiant Exploits was from a Fore-mast Man preferred to be Captain; which Office he perform’d with great Prudence and Valor; but that which first made him most eminently taken notice of, was his Engaging with thirteen _Dunkirkers_, of which he sunk three, and being boarded by three more, and fir’d at by the rest, he refus’d to surrender his Ship on promise of Quarter, but plac’d his eldest Son with a lighted Match in the Powder-room, commanding him on pain of Death to blow up the Ship with the three _Dunkirkers_ as soon as he gave the Word; which valorous Resolution so amaz’d the Enemy, that they let him go. He also behav’d himself bravely in the _Downs_ against the _Spanish_ Admiral _Oquendo_. His two Sons that were present when he gave up the Ghost, would not have his Body thrown overboard, notwithstanding it stunk so intolerably, that all the Provisions in the Ship were tainted by it; therefore taking out his Entrails, they Salted the Body, wrapt it up in four Sail-cloths, and nailing the same up in a pitchy Chest, bury’d it under the Ballast. Mean while the Fleet approaching the _Flemmish_ Isles, was surpris’d by a terrible Storm, in which the Vice-Admiral’s old Ship split asunder, but most of the People were sav’d. Between _Calice_ and _Dover_ they met with eight _Ostenders_, against whom they made themselves ready to Fight; but they, according to the King of _Spain_’s Order, instead of Hostility shew’d them Friendship. All their Provisions were spent, when they happily Anchor’d before _Flushing_, where _Bankert_’s Body was Interr’d with great Solemnity. [Sidenote: Overtures of Peace from the _Portuguese_ refus’d by the _Netherlands_.] In the interim the _United Netherlands_ had fitted out another Fleet to assist _Reciffa_, the _West-India_ Company having first demanded of the King of _Portugal_ two hundred and eighty Tuns of Gold, to the value of which they affirm’d themselves to have been damag’d by the Insurrection of the _Portuguese_. On the other side, the King of _Portugal_ was in a quandary about the Business of _Brasile_; for first, he had no other thoughts but that _Brasile_ would have fall’n into his hands within the space of three Moneths, because the Plot there was so subtilly laid; neither did he think the _States_ would have concern’d themselves with the _West-India_ Companies Business, which now it was manifest they did. Besides this, there was a third Inconvenience, _viz._ that the _Spanish_ Crown endeavor’d to conclude a Peace with the _United Netherlands_; wherefore that he might put a stop to the sending of the Fleet to _Brasile_, he dealt with the _French_ Ambassador to make very advantageous Proffers in his behalf, _viz._ That he would surrender all the conquer’d Places, and make good all the Damages that had been sustain’d thereby. The Fleet appointed to go to _Brasile_ was hereupon stopt, till the _States_ had Consulted about an Answer on the fore-mention’d Propositions; but when _Haeks_ brought news of the falshood of the _Portuguese_, the Scale was immediately turn’d, insomuch that the _Portuguese_ Ambassador went in danger of his Life, till the Mutineers were put into Custody. Moreover the Fleet was order’d to Sail with all speed possible to _Reciffa_, with promise that another Fleet should soon follow with six thousand Men; but the many disconsolate tydings that had been brought of late, of the hardships and sufferings of those that went before, through the unwholsomness of the Climate, the want of Provisions, the Strength and Cruelty of the Enemy, made the Seamen and Soldiers very unwilling to go so fatal a Voyage, insomuch that as many as could, made their escape: yet at last, on the last day of _December_, Anno 1647. the Fleet set Sail under the Command of _Corneliszoon de Wit_; some Weeks before which _Schuppe_ was forc’d to desert the Island _Taperica_, to go and aid _Reciffa_, which the _Portuguese_ from a rais’d Battery on the other side of the River _Biberibi_ shot at so incessantly, that none were safe either in their Houses or in the Streets. Mean while the _Portuguese_ Agent, _Francisco de Sousa Continho_, proffer’d the _States_ to go to _Brasile_ himself, and cause to be restor’d all those Places which had been taken from the _West-India_ Company, particularly the City St. _Salvador_ and _Tercera_, besides Reparation for all other Damages. [Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ his high Demands.] At the same time _Grave Maurice_ was Treated with to go to _Brasile_ again, but his Demands were so high, that it came to nothing; for he requir’d 4000 _l._ yearly to spend at his Table, and 5000 _l._ besides during his Life; also 2000 _l._ to set him out, and twelve thousand Men to Besiege St. _Salvador_, which was always guarded by four thousand, and thirty Carvels lay ready before _Lisbon_ to carry four thousand more thither. [Sidenote: _Angola_ and _Loando_ taken by the _Portuguese_.] All things went very ill on the _Hollanders_ side at this present; for besides that the fore-mention’d Fleet had not its wish’d success, most of the Men being destroy’d by the immoderate Heat of the Climate, _Angola_ and _Loando_ were also taken by the _Portuguese_. These Misfortunes made the _West-India_ Company begin to be very forward to come to a Treaty with the _Portuguese_ Agent, who before seem’d rather to court them, having offer’d to Engage for the restoration of whatever they possess’d at that time, when the ten years Peace was concluded; but when they came to insist upon that Point, he answer’d, That he must expect new Orders from _Lisbon_ concerning _Loando_, because the taking of that Place caus’d an alteration in the state of Affairs. But the _States_ no way satisfi’d with Delays, that were like to prove both hurtful and disgraceful, resolv’d to put into Execution what they had before agreed upon, _viz._ The _East-India_ Company was impower’d to make Prize of all _Portuguese_ Ships towards the payment of the fifteen Tuns of Gold ordain’d for the _West-India_ Company, to help them against the _Portuguese_ Oppression. The _West-India_ Company also receiv’d Commissions to Cruise for _Portuguese_ Vessels before _Brasile_. [Sidenote: _Schuppe_ and _Coche_ miserably defeated as they were Besieging _Gararapes_.] On the seventeenth of _February_, Anno 1649. three thousand Soldiers that came over in the fore-mention’d Fleet, besides two hundred _Negro_’s, and as many Seamen, marching to Besiege _Gararapes_ under the Command of _Schuppe_ and _Coche_, were so furiously set upon by the Sallying Enemy, that they were forc’d to break up the Siege in great disorder, whilest the _Portuguese_ being in number two thousand five hundred, fell upon the Rere; and though the _Dutch_ Officers us’d all the care they could possible to bring their Men to face about, yet they were not able to keep them from running away; in which flight great slaughter of them was made by the _Portuguese_ Horse, consisting of a hundred and thirty, Arm’d with Lances, insomuch that in the flight and the pursuit, a thousand _Netherlanders_ were slain, and nineteen Ensigns or Colours were left behind as Trophies for the _Portuguese_; the chief of the Slain were Colonel _Brink_ and _Houteryve_. The _Zealanders_ were much concern’d at the improsperous Affairs of _Brasile_, in regard a fifth part of the _West-India_ Companies Stock belong’d to _Middleburg_, _Flushing_, and _Veer_, insomuch that the Complaints of Widows and Orphans that shar’d in the common loss, mov’d the _States_ to fit out six great Ships, and as many Ketches, Mann’d with two thousand eight hundred Men, for _Brasile_, where all things ran to ruine, the Grandees both of the Council, Army, and Fleet, being at variance, and impeaching one another. The rest of the Provinces, especially _Friesland_, being less inclin’d to the _West-India_ Company, were somewhat colder in the pursuit of this Business; nevertheless, upon a fresh Letter of Complaint from _Walter Schonenbergh_, President of the _Brasilian_ Council, they held a Consultation together, how to raise Moneys for the fitting out of twenty Ships and five Ketches for the Relief of _Brasile_. [Sidenote: _De Wit_ releas’d from Prison, justifies his Return.] The Admiral _De Wit_ returning home, was, upon the accusation of the Council in _Brasile_, and the General, _Sigismond Schuppe_, made Prisoner in the _Hague_; and together with him the other five Captains that went with him were Committed by the Admiralty, for returning without the Consent of the Council; but they were soon releas’d by the Magistrates of _Amsterdam_, who upon the Admiralties refusing to deliver them, commanded their Provost-Marshal to break open their Prison Doors. _De Wit_ after his Releasement justifi’d what he had done before a full Assembly of the _States_, and alledg’d that it was according to the Orders he receiv’d when he undertook this Expedition. The _Portuguese_ Agent, _Sousa Macede_, obtaining Audience of the _States_, told them how ready the King his Master had been to come to a perfect Agreement of Peace with them, but that their own Acts of Hostility had been the occasion of the breach of that Treaty of Peace that had been concluded on; that the Robberies and Insolencies committed by those _Portugueses_ under their Jurisdiction, was not any way authoris’d or countenanc’d by him; lastly, he offer’d them free Trade to _Brasile_ eighty Tun of Gold to the _West-India Company_, 800000 _l._ to the Orphans and Widows in _Zealand_, and payment of all private Debts. But making no mention of restoring the Places in _Brasile_, he seem’d to mock the _States_; who resented it so much, that they would admit of no farther Conference with him. [Sidenote: _Schuppe_, _Haeks_, and _Schonenbergh_ declare the Reasons of the loss of _Reciffa_.] Mean while the _West-India_ Companies Business in _Brasile_ went daily more and more to ruine, insomuch that in the Year 1654. they lost all their Forts and Places of Strength and Habitation, and amongst them _Reciffa_, the chief Residence of the Council of _Brasile_, who returning home, brought nothing but a doleful Relation of their unfortunate Proceedings. _Schuppe_, _Haeks_, and _Schonenbergh_, made each of them a long Oration, setting forth the sad Condition of the Place, and the Miseries they had endur’d a long time before they left it; also excusing their total quitting thereof to the Enemy by the great want of Provisions and other Supplies, which they so often had written for in vain, at least receiv’d short of what their Necessities requir’d, and by the Clamours of the Soldiers, who were ready upon all occasions to Mutiny or Revolt, as appear’d by their crying out upon the discovery of a Fleet of _Portuguese_ upon the Coast, _Behold our Deliverers from_ the Netherlanders _Tyranny_; lastly, by the growing Power of their Enemies, which they could not have resisted, though they themselves had been much stronger than they were. [Sidenote: They are try’d at a Council of War.] But the _West-India_ Company sensibly touch’d at the thoughts of their Losses, were not satisfi’d with the Relation of _Schonenbergh_, _Haeks_, and _Schuppe_, but requir’d a Journal of every days Transactions, or Testimonies to confirm the truth of their Relation: They also demanded an Account of the Condition of the Store-houses when _Reciffa_ was surrendred, and fell upon them with several Interrogatories, _viz._ Why the Fort _Afogados_ was forsaken? Why the Garrisons were not drawn in from the North to _Reciffa_? Why they did not keep footing on the Land, and guard those Places they had left when _Reciffa_ was lost? Why they made such ado for want of Provisions and Ammunition to dishearten the People? Why the Money proffer’d by several Citizens was not taken? Why they did not burn the Enemy’s Fleet, since, according to the opinion of several, it might easily have been done? How they could testifie the Sedition of the Soldiers, since none of their Commanders complain’d of it? Whether they us’d any Means to encourage the Besieged? Who did, and who did not consent to the Surrender? Whether no better Terms could have been made? In fine, they prevail’d with the _States_ to secure _Schonenbergh_, _Haeks_, and _Schuppe_, in their Houses, and on the ninth of _September_, Anno 1654. brought them before a Council of War in the _Hague_, where the chief things objected against them were, That the _Portuguese_ had gotten by the Conquest of _Reciffa_, above two hundred Brass Guns, most of them Demi-Culverins, and four hundred Iron Guns, valu’d together at ten hundred thousand _Rixdollars_; That the Store-houses were sufficiently stock’d with Provision and Ammunition; That they took care to secure their own Goods, but left what belong’d to the _West-India_ Company as a Prey to the Enemy. [Sidenote: Their Pleas.] [Sidenote: _Schuppe_ condemn’d at a Council of War to lose his Salary.] _Schuppe_ on his part alledg’d, that he could do nothing of himself, as being under the Command of the _Brasilian_ Council. _Haeks_ and _Schonenbergh_ pleaded the want of Men, by reason of the many that daily dropt from them, either by Death or Defection, to the Enemy, and those that remain’d, unsafe to be trusted, as consisting of so many different Nations, also their being block’d up at the Sea by the _Portuguese_ Fleet, the great want of Ammunition, especially Instruments of Fortification; lastly, the head-strong Resolutions of the Soldiers, to deliver up the Place, whatever their Officers should determine to the contrary; notwithstanding which, to shew that it was not quitted upon disadvantageous terms, they produc’d the Articles of Agreement upon which it was surrendred to _Francisco_, Governor of _Pernambuco_. In conclusion, the Council of War pass’d their Sentence on _Schuppe_, _viz._ That he should lose all the Sallary that was due to him from the _West-India_ Company since the twenty sixth of _January_ 1654. when he Sign’d the Agreement with _Baretto_ for the delivering up of _Reciffa_. Thus the _Portuguese_ recover’d full and absolute possession of _Brasile_, yet not without fear of an afterclap of War; wherefore the _Portuguese_ Agent, upon condition of an absolute Peace to be concluded, proffer’d the _States General_ in the _Hague_, Satisfaction for the Damages which the _West-India_ Company had sustain’d in _Brasile_, eighty Tun of Gold, a free Trade to _Brasile_, and payment of the Debts due to them from several _Portugueses_ in _Brasile_; but told them, that to surrender them any Places there, was not in the power of the _Portuguese_ Crown. On the other side, the _Spaniard_ proffer’d to assist them in the total Conquest of _Brasile_, and to restore them those Places they formerly possess’d, as soon as they had subdu’d the _Portuguese_; to which the _Zealanders_ began to hearken, who being great Losers by the _Portugueses_ Treachery, wish’d for nothing more than Revenge; but _Holland_ having a great Trade to _Portugal_, was more inclin’d to Peace: Whereupon His Majesty of great _Britain_ proffer’d himself to be Mediator between the _Portuguese_ Crown and the _United Netherlands_; and accordingly on the sixth of _August_, Anno 1661. a Peace was concluded with _Portugal_ on these Terms: [Sidenote: Articles of Peace between _Portugal_ and the _United Netherlands_.] I. _That_ Portugal _was to pay to the_ United Netherlands _eighty Tun of Gold, either in ready Money, Sugar, Tobacco, or Salt, or deduct the same out of the Customs payable in the_ Portuguese _Harbors_. II. _That the Guns on_ Reciffa _were to be restor’d to the_ West-India _Company_. III. _That the Salt-Trade at_ St. Uves _and other Places under the_ Portuguese _Jurisdiction, whether in_ Africa _or_ Brasile, _should be granted to the_ Netherlands, _paying the Customs as the_ Portuguese _do themselves_. IV. _That the conquer’d Places gotten on both sides, should remain in the hands of the present Possessors._ V. _That the King of_ Portugal _should not lay an Embargo on any_ Netherland _Vessel, on any pretence whatsoever, though they should carry all manner of Ammunition to his Enemies, provided it were not out of any of the_ Portuguese _Havens_. VI. _That no_ Netherlander _should ever be call’d before any Judge about any Difference in Religion, but should have freedom thereof granted him, either in his House or Ship, and also a convenient Burying-place_. VII. _That if any Difference should chance to arise between_ Portugal _and the_ Netherlands, _they should not extend it to prejudice the Trade, but every Merchant should be free to call in his Debts, and send Ships without hinderance_. VIII. _That this present Agreement should not be broken by any Misdemeanors acted by any Subjects, either in the_ East _or_ West-Indies, _who were to be punish’d by their lawful Judges_. IX. _That the Havens belonging to both Parties were to be free for either Men of War or Merchant-Men._ X. _That the_ Netherlanders _Trading in_ Portugal, _might go Arm’d, take Houses and Store-houses_. XI. _That the Goods laden in an Enemy’s Ship might be declar’d free Prize._ XII. _That the_ Portuguese _in_ Brasile _should pay their Debts which they ow’d to the_ West-India _Company, or any other Person or Persons; to which purpose three appointed Commissioners were to Sit at_ Lisbon, _to hear and determine the Causes that should be brought before them, and without the usual Circumstances, pass their Sentence, which was to be Executed by a higher Power_. A few days after this Agreement was concluded, the _Portuguese_ Ambassador, _Henrico Sousa Tovares_, went for _Lisbon_, where he arriv’d on the last day of _September_. [Sidenote: The _States_ of _Groningen_ and others, disapprove the Peace with _Portugal_, and condemn _Schulenbergh_.] Not onely _Guelderland_ and _Zealand_, were much dissatisfi’d with this Agreement, but also _Groningen_ accus’d their Deputy _Schulenbergh_, that contrary to Orders he had been too forward in concluding the Peace with _Portugal_, and that he had consented to that which the _States_ of _Groningen_ had not permitted him; for they resolv’d to make Peace on no other account, but that _Portugal_ should pay the eighty Tun of Gold in ready Money, and that in a short time; whenas on the contrary, he had allow’d of the payment in Merchandise, and that in a long time. Wherefore the _States_ of _Groningen_ (who for this Fact and several Accusations brought against _Schulenbergh_, condemn’d him to be Beheaded, which Sentence had been Executed upon him, had he not made his Escape) together with those of _Omeland_, and others, who disapprov’d of the Peace concluded with _Portugal_, drew up many Reasons why they dissented, and look’d upon it as both dishonorable and disadvantageous; however, the Articles being Sign’d, and the _States General_, taking into consideration how impossible a Work it would have been to have gone about to renew a War with the _Portuguese_ in _Brasile_, being at that time in firm possession of all, and that for the Interest of a few, in respect of the whole Common-wealth, they were forc’d to rest satisfi’d, and together with the _West-India_ Company, to sit down with the loss of those Places in _Brasile_, which had cost so much Blood and Treasure to gain. [Sidenote: The _West-India_ Companies Memorial deliver’d in to the _States_.] Nevertheless the _West-India_ Company put in a Memorial at the _Hague_, of all that had been done them from time to time, wherein they themselves had been great Sufferers, and the Common-wealth very much advantag’d, as namely, That at first they put in a Stock of seventy four Tun of Gold, sent out divers Fleets under the Admirals _Willekens_, _John Dirkszoon Lam_, _Boudewyn_, _Henrickszoon_, _Peter Hein_, _Adrian Pater_, _Henrick Lonk_, _Dirk Uitgeest_, _Peter Ita_, _Loos_, _Cornelis Houte-been_, _Lichthart_, _Bankert_, and others, at several times, which had much weakned the _Spanish_ Power, to the great advantage of the _United Netherlands_, because the _Spaniard_ was not onely forc’d to disperce his Power to defend _America_, but also lost great Riches on the Coast thereof, which being the Sinews of his War, prevented him from oppressing that _State_; That to their loss they suffer’d their Forces to stop the Enemy, when he broke into the _Veluwe_, at that time when the _United Netherlands_ seem’d to hang by a silken Thred; That it would probably have been the ruine of _Holland_, if the mighty _Spanish_ Fleet which Engag’d with _Martin Tromp_ in the _Downs_, had been assisted by sixty six Sail, which _La Torre_ was forc’d to send to the Coast of _Brasile_, against the _West-India_ Company; That this Companies Concern was so great a Nursery of Mariners in the Year 1629. that they had above a hundred Ships at Sea, and fifteen thousand Men in their Service; which the _United Netherlands_ considering, and judging that Charge too great for the Company to maintain, had resolv’d to contribute a certain Sum towards it yearly, which had not yet been paid; which made them take up Money upon Interest, and put in a Supply of thirty Tun of Gold for the payment of the same; That the Expedition of _Henrick Brewer_ to _Chili_ had put them very much behind-hand, because the Enemy having notice of it, secur’d himself, yet was often terrifi’d with it; for _Brewer_ having found out a Way to go from _Reciffa_ to the Province of _Chili_ in two Moneths, and accordingly to do great mischief to the _Spanish_ Power, whose Riches lay bare all along the South Sea; this and many other things forc’d to make that honorable Peace with the _Netherlands_, concluded on in _Munster_, Anno 1648.; That their Losses, computed and deliver’d in to the _States General_, amounted to sixty six Tun of Gold, and forty three thousand two hundred and ninety _Guilders_, which forc’d them to take up Money to pay Interest for what they had before, yet that they still kept fifty great Ships at Sea, and were resolv’d to prosecute their Trade with fresh vigor, as soon as Satisfaction should be given from the _Portuguese_ Crown, as was promis’d them in the Articles of Agreement, and they could obtain of their Lordships, to have their Patent prolong’d for a considerable time; That they were still indebted to those Orphans and Widows who furnish’d them with Money to set out their Forces, which in the first twelve years did the _Spaniard_ so much hurt, that the Damage is reckon’d to amount to one thousand one hundred and eighty Tun of Gold. These things being taken into consideration by the _States General_, they granted the Company their Request, and gave them a new Patent, by virtue of which they now Trade to _Africa_ and the _Caribbee-Islands_, since they were forc’d to quit all they had possess’d in _Brasile_. SECT. XII. _The Journey of_ Rodulphus Baron, _with the Description of the Customs and Manners of the_ Tapuyans. _Rodulphus Baron_, to make a Discovery of the Countrey, upon the Encouragement of _Grave Maurice_, who allow’d him to that purpose a yearly Revenue, undertook a remarkable Journey, accompany’d with three _Tapuyans_; who going out of the Village _Caneri_ without any store of Provisions, left the Mountains _Cupaeva_ on the right-hand, and went seventy Leagues into the Countrey, without meeting with any People, onely he found one Mountain of _Fossile_ Glass; from whence he went Southward to the Villages of the _Waripebares_ and _Caripati_, who having courteously Entertain’d him, appointed certain Persons to accompany him from one Village to another, with Orders to Complement _Grave Maurice_, who sent them home with several Gifts. The _Waripebares_ and _Caripati_ inhabit fourteen Villages on the Mountains which Bound _Brasile_ Westward, live by Hunting and Fishing, eat wild Honey and all manner of Fruit, and maintain continual Wars against a mighty People which inhabit the Western Plains. [Sidenote: The Customs and Manners of the _Tapuyans_.] As for the _Tapuyans_, they range up and down between the Rivers _Grande_, _Quoauguho_, _Ocioro_, _Upameoma_, and _Voiroguo_, without having any setled Abodes; they are a strong People, stern of Countenance, and black Hair’d: In stead of Circumcising their Children, they cut them, which is done after this manner: The Priests stand on a row, Dancing and Singing, whilest one of them swings the Child round about his Head before all the Multitude, and then runs away with it; at last returning, sets it in his Lap, whilest another Priest cutting a Hole in the Ears and Lips thereof, puts little Bones into the same, and the Mother cries and howls after a terrible manner. At these Ceremonies, which end with Dancing and Singing, their King is always present. The Virgins are kept by their Parents till the Mothers perceive them to have their Monethly Courses, which they immediately reveal to the Priests, who acquaint the King therewith, before whom the Maid, being Painted red, is brought; whom having smoak’d with Tobacco, he throws an Arrow at a Garland, which she wears on her Head, and if he chances to hit it, he gives her his Benediction, by licking certain parts of her Body, from which she hopes to receive long Life. [Illustration] So soon as a Woman is gotten with Child by her Husband, she lies no more with him, but he is permitted to enjoy his other Wives, whose number is either more or less, according to every ones pleasure. The Women after Delivery eat their After-birth. Adultery is free for Men, but if Women be taken in the Act, they are immediately put to Death. After they have done Soweing and Planting, the King calls all his People and Subjects together, and appears to them hung round with Garlands; and all of them have their Bodies Painted and stuck full of divers colour’d Feathers. [Sidenote: Strange kind of Prognostication.] The Priests when they go about to foretel future Events, either Sing or Pipe, and at the same time hold up their Heads towards the Skie, and stand gazing, as if they saw some strange Vision in the Air; on some of their Backs hangs a Bundle of Ostriches Feathers; some throw Feathers in the Air, to see which way the Wind blows. When the Waters overflowing _Brasile_ did much harm, _Anno 1641._ the Priests being Consulted, brought forth the King’s _Calabash_, in which lay their sacred Stones call’d _Cohuterak_ and _Titscheyouh_, and began to Dance and Sing; next six Priests were plac’d in a row, which were to Prognosticate: whereupon the first taking up a Stone, said, _The_ Netherlanders _have given Battel to those in_ St. Salvador, _but are now about an Agreement_: The second held up a Blossom of _Indian_ Wheat, and foretold that there would be plenty of that Grain: The third holding a white Pebble-stone, promis’d store of Milk: The fourth grasp’d a Stone like Bread, telling them that the Countrey should produce much Bread: The fifth holding up a Bowe and Arrow hung full of Feathers, cry’d aloud, _This is a Gift of the Angels, Birds shall flie thicker than these Feathers hang together_: The sixth, having a lump of Wax, foretold that there would be plenty of Honey made by the Bees that year. They worship the Constellation _Ursa Minor_. They observe a very strange way of Purging; for with a Stick they thrust sharp Leaves down their Throats into their Stomach, which they turn so long till they vomit Blood. [Sidenote: Their manner of Wrestling.] In the Summer they have a general Meeting for Wrestling, and other Exercises, which lasts three days. The Wrestlers are strangely attir’d; for they are all over their Bodies beset with divers sorts of Feathers, and in stead of Boots or Buskins, wear the Barks of Trees about their Legs; their Hair besmear’d with Honey, and ty’d in a Tuft, hangs down behind; on their Crowns they wear a Plume of Feathers, about their Necks a Band or Gorget of Feathers; at their Arms they tie the Wings of the Birds _Kohitub_, and on their Backs a green Bough; their whole Bodies Painted with divers Colours, and their Hair all Red: Thus accoutred, they Engage one with another, and if there be an old Grudge between them, then they Fight in earnest, and often kill one another: The Victor with strange Actions upbraids the Vanquish’d with Cowardise, and ever after enjoys his Wife and Children. They eat the Serpent _Manuah_, being four Yards long, and on the Tail having a Horn, which with a push it thrusts into Man or Beast, as it lights, then winds it self about the Body, and sucks till it hath suck’d the last drop of Blood. Here are also Serpents which are so poysonous, that the least Wound receiv’d by them is mortal, unless the part bitten be either immediately cut out, or off. The Priests cut the deceased Bodies into pieces, which are roasted by old Women; the Bones are taken out, and at the next publick Feast are stamp’d, mix’d with Water, and Drank: But the Bodies of Noblemen are to be eaten by none but Persons of that Rank. [Sidenote: Their manner of Crowning their Kings.] They also Crown their Kings after a strange manner, _viz._ The Priests, who are beset with Feathers, anoint him with sweet-smelling Oyl, or Balsam, and put a Crown of divers colour’d Feathers on his Head, after which they all fall a Singing and Dancing; but if any one happen to speak a word of the deceased King, they all begin to howl and cry. The Kings Authority consists more in Advising than Commanding. [Sidenote: Their Opinions concerning the Soul.] They believe that the Souls of those who die a natural Death are immortal; but those that are kill’d by their Enemies, devour’d by ravenous Beasts, or poyson’d, are totally extinguish’d both Soul and Body for ever. They say likewise that Hell is Westward near a dark Pool, where the Devil Examines every Soul how they liv’d on Earth, and what Death they dy’d; the Good are Ferry’d over to a delightful Valley, where there is plenty of Fish, Honey, and Flesh; but the Wicked are miserably tormented. The Natives live peaceably amongst themselves, their Law being for those that have not, to ask, and for those that have, to give. They never Travel in the Night for fear of Serpents and other ravenous Beasts, neither do they go any whither till the Sun has dry’d up the Dew. [Sidenote: King _Janduy_ his subtile Plot.] King _Janduy_ before-mention’d, being above a hundred years of age, desir’d the Prince of _Juckers_ fair Daughter to Wife, but being deny’d, contriv’d a subtil Plot, _viz._ he invited _Jucker_, with his Courtiers, to a Wresting; whither he coming with his whole Train, was earnestly minding the Sport, when a considerable number of _Janduy_’s Women falling upon _Jucker_’s Men, destroy’d a great many of them, and got the desir’d Maid for _Janduy_, who at that time had fourteen Wives and sixty Children, but had formerly enjoy’d fifty Wives and Concubines. [Sidenote: Their Arms.] Not onely amongst the _Tapuyans_, but generally amongst the rest of the _Brasilians_, their Arms are great Clubs call’d _Tacapes_; also sharp Darts, and strong Bowes call’d _Orapares_, with Shields, which are made of the Skin of a Beast call’d _Tapiroussous_. [Illustration] The Women wear long Chains of Snail-shells, which hang down over their Shoulders; their Faces are Painted with divers colour’d Rings, surrounded with Specks; their Necks and Arms they adorn with Necklaces and Armlets of little Bones: They carry their Husbands Provisions in time of War. Their Army they order by blowing on the Horn _Inubia_; others play on Mens Bones kill’d a little before: for going by Water they use Boats made of the Barks of Trees, each whereof being able to carry fifty Men, go exceeding swift: The strongest Men always march before, and as many as they take, whether Men, Women, or Children, they are all kill’d and roasted in their _Boucans_. [Sidenote: Their manner of Fighting.] Their Villages consist of Houses of eighty, ninety, or a hundred Paces long; those that lie near the Enemy are fenc’d with Walls and Pallisado’s against any Attempt. Their Field-Battels are very terrible; for as soon as they get sight of one another, they howl like Wolves; which Tone they raise as they approach nearer and nearer, and with their Horns and Pipes make also a mighty sound; then shaking their former Enemies Teeth (which they wear about their Necks) at one another, they cry, _That they shall immediately fall into each others hands for Food_: whereupon they throw their Darts at one another, which are adorn’d with all sorts of Feathers, and if any one be wounded, he pulls out the Dart, and bites the same like a mad Dog; next falling to their Clubs, they knock one anothers Brains out: which manner of Fighting lasts commonly some hours before the one or other Party leave the Field. All their Prisoners they fatten, and eat them at a Merry-meeting; at which when they have Danc’d seven hours together, three Men lead the Prisoner, ty’d with a Rope made of the Bark of a Tree call’d _Juira_, through their Village, whilest the Prisoner looking to and again, saith in a scornful manner thus unto them, _You, do ye hear? I have eaten your Fathers_: and to others, _I have roasted your Brother; your Nephew also tasted very well; my Death will be sufficiently reveng’d_: Having carry’d him about for some time, they put the Rope so strait about his Middle, that he can neither stir one way nor other; then they give him Stones in his Hands, and lay others at his Feet, saying, _Now take Revenge for your Death before you die_: then he immediately throws at those who are nearest him; and when Stones are wanting, he throws with Earth: at last comes the Executioner, adorn’d with Feathers, with a black Club in his Hand, and asks, _Have not you at several times eaten of our Relations?_ to which the Prisoner undauntedly answers, _Pa che tan tan, ajouca, atoupave_, that is, _Yes, I am he that have eaten several of your People_, and laying his Hands upon his Head, cries out, _O how valiantly did I behave my self therein!_ The Executioner replies, _And therefore shall you be kill’d by me, and serve for Food for these Spectators_: Then the Prisoner answers again, _What care I, since I know my Death will be reveng’d_: which said, his Brains are dash’d out, and falling on the Ground, he is carry’d away by his Wife (for the Conqueror commonly betroths his Sister or Daughter to the Prisoner,) who seemingly bemoans the Body, of which she hath the first Cut when it is Dress’d; then the old Women put the Corps into scalding Water, in which they let it lie till the Skin comes off; then the Owner of the Prisoner quartering the Body, distributes it amongst the Guests; the pieces laid on their Gridirons call’d _Boucans_, are turn’d by the old Women, who lick up the Dripping, desiring the By-standers to bring more such Food, and with the Blood anoint the Childrens Faces; the Meat being broyl’d every one takes a piece, and eats it up to the Bones, which are kept as Trophies. [Sidenote: _Brasilians_ molested by an evil Spirit.] The _Brasilians_ do not onely thus plague one another, but they are likewise tormented by an evil Spirit, which they call _Aygnan_ and _Caagerrel_, if credit may be given to _John Leerius_ a _Burgundian_, who relates, that he hath often seen them sweat out of fear; and striking their Hands upon their Thighs, cry out, _Mair autourassap, acequerey, Aygnan atoupave_, that is, _O my Fool, my Companion, I fear the Devil above all Evils_. [Sidenote: Diseases peculiar to _Brasile_.] Amongst several Diseases to which _Brasile_ is subject, there is one call’d _Pians_, as malignant as the _French POX_, proceeding from libinousness, the whole Body being full of Carbuncles, each about the bigness of a Man’s Thumb. Strangers in _Brasile_ are also much troubled with a Giddiness, occasion’d by the extream Cold in the Night; as also with sore Eyes, which they get by going abroad before Sun-rising, or after Sun-setting. The Palsie is also very common there, taking People so suddenly, that falling down stiff on the Ground, they are often in danger of losing their Breath. Besides these there are several other Distempers that very much infest _Brasile_, as the Bloody-flux, Dropsie, Rising of the Gall, Worms, Meazles, and St. _Anthony_’s Fire. [Sidenote: _Brasilians_ success in curing of several Distempers by their knowledge in Herbs.] The aged _Brasilians_ have for the most part great skill in Herbs, which they gather in the Woods, and apply them to the Sick both inwardly and outwardly; and chiefly they know how to expel Poyson. None can perswade them against the Medicines which they have learn’d from their Predecessors; nay, they will rather chuse to lose their Lives than use any other: and indeed they do not always succeed amiss, but often manifest that they understand the Vertue of Herbs better than our _European_ Physicians. The Learned _Guilielmus Piso_ relates, That he hath seen several times in the Army which _Grave Maurice_ sent against the _Portuguese_ in _Brasile_, that the _Brasilians_ in a short time cur’d those Wounds with fresh Gums and healing Herbs, which the _Netherland_ Chirurgeons judging past Cure, presently advis’d the cutting off either the Arm or Leg of the wounded Person. _Piso_ adds moreover, That he himself us’d some of _Hippocrates_’s and _Galen_’s Prescriptions in Wine, for the curing of Cancers and Swellings, which the _Brasilians_ have made well onely with the Juice of Tobacco. They also in a moment recover’d a Person given over by all _European_ Physicians, with the Juice of the Root call’d _Jaborandi_: Wherefore he always desir’d their Company when he went to visit sick or wounded Men. [Sidenote: Their manner of curing the Sick, and bewailing the Dead.] The Distempers in _America_ differ much from the _European_, not onely in the Signs of any Distemper, but also in the Cure; for when a Distemper cannot be cur’d by the prescribed Medicines, a Father or Mother sends for the Neighbors, to know if they can find any means to cure the Disease: Which Custom was anciently observ’d amongst the _Greeks_. They also strictly observe a Rule in their Diet, and take care to keep the Patient out of the Sun in the Day, and cold Winds in the Night: However, if their Fathers and Mothers be sick, nevertheless they leave not off their usual Dancing and Singing; but if the sick Person die, especially a Father, they lament and cry over the Corps like Wolves, calling to one another with a quavering Voice, and uttering these Expressions, _The strong Man is deceas’d, who carry’d so many Prisoners for a brave Dinner to his House. Oh what a quick Hunter and subtil Fisher hath Death bereav’d us of! we shall see him no more till our Souls are carry’d beyond the high Mountains, where our valiant Predecessors Dance in Rings._ The Women make the greatest noise, and in the midst of their howling embrace one another, which lasts six hours, and then they put the Body upright into a Grave made like a Hogshead, hanging about it divers colour’d Feathers, and other things in which the Deceased delighted most when living; upon the Grave the nearest Relations place Dishes of Meat, both Flesh and Fish, and the Liquor _Cauou-in_, that their evil Spirit call’d _Aygnan_, may be reconcil’d by these Offerings, and not carry away the Body; but when they remove from thence they cover the Grave with the Herb _Pindo_. This Custom is not observ’d by all _Brasilians_, for some eat up their deceased Relations. SECT. XIII. Grave Maurice _his Account of_ Brasile, _so far as it concern’d the_ West-India _Company_. _Brasile_, so far as it concerns the _West-India_ Company, extends from the River _Real_, which divides _Seregippa_ and the Lordship of St. _Salvador_, to _Maragnan_: _Seregippa_ it self reaches along the Sea-Coast thirty two Leagues, and was first brought under the King of _Spain_’s Jurisdiction by _Christovan de Barros Cardoso_, who being order’d by the King of _Spain_ to Plant this new Countrey, invited many People from St. _Salvador_, who built four Sugar-Mills, and a Town consisting of a hundred Houses, and four hundred Sheds for Cattel; but the Town being destroy’d, hath nothing left but Heaps of Rubbish; and the Cattel either fell into the _Netherlanders_ hands, or were devour’d by Tygers; the Inhabitants fled back to St. _Salvador_: Many troubles have prevented the re-building of it. [Sidenote: The fertility of _Pernambuco_.] _Pernambuco_ may for its fruitfulness stand in competition with any Place in the World, except in those parts where the Soil is sandy and stonie. The Fields feed abundance of excellent Cattel; the Woods, Deer and Fowl; the Ocean and Rivers, all manner of good Fish. It is inhabited but eight Leagues into the Countrey, because the nearer the Sea, the more convenient it is for Importing and Exporting of Goods; neither could the _Portuguese_, by reason of their small number, spread themselves farther, as also in regard they found great resistance from the _Brasilians_. The _Negro_’s that work in the Sugar-Mills between the River _Grande_ and _Francisco_, amount to four thousand. The Cape _Verde_, _Mina_, _Angola_, _Ardra_, and _Calabaria_, generally provide three thousand in a year, to supply the number of the Sick, or those that run away. SECT. XIV. _The Councellor_ Dussen’_s Relation of so much of_ Brasile _as concerns the_ West-India _Company_. That part of _Brasile_ which the _West-India_ Company have subdu’d by force of Arms on the Continent of _America_, is divided into six Counties, _viz._ _Seregippa_, _Pernambuco_, _Itamarica_, _Parayba_, _Rio Grande_, and _Siara_. The Expedition undertaken by _Gysseling_ and _Schuppe_ made _Seregippa_ desolate, the Inhabitants whereof remov’d to the Coast _Todos los Sanctos_. Also _Siara_, which the _Portuguese_ formerly possess’d, was thinly inhabited, and had a mean Fortress there, whither some few _Brasilians_ came now and then to the _Netherlanders_ assistance. _Pernambuco_, lying between the Rivers _Francisco_ and _Tamarica_, excells the other Countrey in fruitfulness and pleasantness. The _Brasilians_ compare it to a hollow Rock, under which fresh Water flows. [Sidenote: Havens of _Pernambuco_.] Moreover, _Pernambuco_ hath several Havens, _viz._ the outermost Road before _Reciffa_, which being in the open Sea, is somewhat dangerous, but the innermost is secure against all Storms; also at the Promontory St. _Augustine_, where the Mouth of the Haven is narrow and dangerous, by reason of the Rocks and shallow Grounds; the Island _Alexio_ is very fit to Crain Ships in; _Barra Grande_ hath a large and safe Inlet, convenient for all manner of Vessels, yet it is inferior to _Cororipa_; lastly, the Havens _Jaragoa_ and _Franco_ are very eminent. [Sidenote: Rivers.] Amongst the Rivers, the chief are _Jangades_, _Serinhain_, _Formosa_, _Porto Calvo_, _Camarigibi_, _Antonio_, _Michael_, and _Francisco_. _Pernambuco_ also is divided into six Jurisdictions; the first and most ancient is _Igarazu_; the second and biggest, _Olinda_; the third, _Serinhain_; the fourth, _Porto Calvo_; the fifth, the _Alagoas_; and the sixth, _Rio Francisco_, which is the Boundary of _Pernambuco_ on the South. [Sidenote: Towns of _Pernambuco_.] _Pernambuco_ also boasts five Towns, _viz._ _Garasu_, _Olinda_, _Maurice-stadt_, to which also belongs _Reciffa_, _Bella Pojuca_, and _Formosa_. The Villages _Moribeca_, _St. Laurence_, _Antonio_, _Amaro_, and others are also not inferior to little Towns. The Countrey is for the most part Hilly, but is exceeding fruitful in the Valleys, and near the Rivers, especially in Sugar-Canes. Here are also a hundred and twenty Sugar-Mills, of which a great number stand still for want of _Negro_’s. Next _Pernambuco_ lies _Tamarica_, which hath onely one Haven, one City, and twenty three Sugar-Mills, of which thirty are onely employ’d. This Island produces excellent Grapes and Melons, yet is for the most part barren, by reason of the Pismires. The Countrey _Parayba_ hath its Denomination from the River which washeth it, being deep, and without any Rocks or Sands; on the Banks thereof stand twenty Sugar-Mills, two of which are still standing. In the Lordship of _Rio Grande_ stands the Town _Puntael_, whose Buildings were ruin’d in the Wars; after which the Inhabitants had leave to build them another City on a fruitful Soil. The Countrey hereabouts us’d formerly to be very full of Cattel, but was not onely bereav’d thereof by the _Hollanders_ and _Portuguese_, but also for the most part made desolate. The River which washes the Castle Ceulen, affords a convenient and safe Harbor for all sorts of Vessels. This Lordship of _Rio Grande_ boasts onely two Sugar-Mills, of which one is decay’d; so that in all those Parts in _Brasile_ which belong to the _West-India_ Company, are a hundred and sixty Sugar-Mills constantly employ’d, besides forty six which are about repairing. It is scarce to be reckon’d how much Sugar they make yearly, in regard, through the alterations of the annual Seasons, as also the more or less fruitful Fields, they produce one year, and in one place, more than in another. The Inhabitants are of two sorts, _viz._ free People, and Slaves; the Slaves are _African Negro_’s, and the others, _Netherlanders_, _Portugueses_, or _Brasilians_; which last came in of their own accords, or else were absolv’d from their Oaths, and acquitted from their Martial Offices; yet are ready to venture their Lives and Estates, and to Serve either on Foot or Horseback for their Freedom against their Enemies. Those that went from the _Netherlands_ to _Brasile_ on their own Accounts, drive a Trade, or Serve the Traders, or else keep Inns, and follow Handicraft Faculties; some of which, when grown rich, buy Parts in Sugar-Mills; others live on Tilling: by all which several sorts of People _Reciffa_ is very well inhabited, and full of Houses, which yield great Rents, and are held at high Prices: wherefore _Grave Maurice_ thought good to mark out pieces of Ground on the Isle _Antonio Vaes_, which were sold for a considerable Sum of Money, insomuch that in a short time a new City call’d _Maurice-stadt_ was built on the same, and inclos’d within strong Bulwarks; yea, notwithstanding the Rumor of a great _Spanish_ Fleet in some measure abated the Courage of the Builders, yet the City was extended down to the Fort _Frederick Henrick_, and a brave Bridge laid over the Stream _Biberibi_, cross which they go from _Reciffa_ to _Antonio Vaes_, where no People were in greater esteem than Handicraftsmen, who could get their ten or twelve Shillings a day. The Labor which is requir’d in the Sugar-Mills, no Men are able to undergo but the _Negro_’s. Of the _Portuguese_ some have liv’d here a considerable time; others lately came hither, being most of them _Jews_, of whom there live a great many at _Reciffa_, and are very diligent in promoting of Trade: They possess several Sugar-Mills, and are kept very much under; their whole study and contrivance is for Gain; they conceal their Hatred against the _Christians_, as also their Covetousness, yet are mortal Enemies to the _Hollanders_. The _Brasilians_, who are the ancient Inhabitants, live apart from other People in their Villages, consisting of long Straw Huts, forty or fifty of them under one Roof sleeping on woven Hammocks; they esteem no Houshold-stuff but Nets and _Calabashes_, using the first to fish with, and the other to drink out of; about their Huts they plant _Mandihoka_ and _Brasile_ Trees; when they are not employ’d in the Wars, they spend most of their time in Hunting, but many in Idleness; they esteem wild Fruits better than those which are Planted; they Drink night and day, making their Liquor of the chew’d Root _Mandihoka_, or the Apples _Tajovis_; they esteem nothing so much as strong Drink, and to wear Linnen next their Skins; they would not value Money, could they but get Brandy and _Spanish_ Wine without it; if they are not promis’d a Reward, they will not work. Each Village, nay House, hath its peculiar Governor; but besides him there is a _Hollander_, who stirs up the Idle to work, and takes care that the Owners of the Sugar-Mills do them no injury: They never suffer themselves to be Hir’d for above twenty days, at the end whereof they demand their Wages; they are commonly employ’d to chop Wood to boyl the Sugar with; but by reason of the scarcity of _Negros_, they are often made use of for other Business, which to avoid they hide themselves; as also when they are to go to Fight; they are hard to be kept in Ranks, for they will run out of their own Fyle into another on the least occasion; but if they put their Enemy to flight, they pursue him, and spare none alive. They little regard the _Christian_ Religion, yet some of them have learn’d the _Lord’s-Prayer_ and the _Creed_ of the _Roman_ Priests. The Minister _Davil_ having learn’d the _Brasilian_ Tongue, Converted very many of them, and Baptiz’d them in their Villages. The _Brasilian_ Women and Children usually go to Wars with their Husbands and Fathers. The _Brasilian_ Slaves were some years since bought of the _Tapuyans_, or made Slaves, because they assisted _Boudewyn Henrickszoon_, when he Landed in the Inlet _Traluson_; but they have since obtain’d their Freedom of the _Portuguese_. The _Angolan_ Slaves can undergo greater Labor than any other. The _Brasile_ Wood grows generally ten or twelve Leagues up in the Countrey from the Sea, not in particular Woods, but amongst other Trees. The _Negro_’s, when the Sugar-Mills work not, are employ’d in pulling off the white Bark, three Fingers thick, from the Tree, which bears dark-green Leaves, small and prickly at the ends, and hanging on thin Stalks, but bearing neither Blossoms nor Fruit. _Osnabrig_ Linnen is highly esteem’d amongst the _Brasilians_, as also colour’d Wax, Copper, Tin, Wine, Beer, Butter, Cheese, Meal, Stock-fish, Pork, Hung-beef, and Gammons of Bacon. The _Papists_ Teach and observe their Religion in publick, their Spiritual Men being divided into Priests and Monks; the Monks consist of _Franciscans_, _Carmelites_, and _Benedictines_; the _Franciscans_ being the most eminent, possess six fair Cloysters, besides which they have neither Land nor other Revenues, but live on what is given them daily; their Cloysters stand in _Frederick-stadt_, _Iguaraca_, _Olinda_, _Pojuca_, _Serinhain_, and _Antonio Vaes_. But the _Carmelites_ have three Structures at _Parayba_, and as many more in _Frederick-stadt_ and _Olinda_, where they live plentifully on what they reap from Tillage, Rents of Houses, and Legacies of deceased Persons. The _Benedictins_, though they possess onely two Cloysters, one in _Frederick-stadt_, and the other at _Olinda_, yet they have the greatest Income from the Sugar-Mills of _Muserapa_, and the Countrey about _Parayba_, as also Cattel and Cane-Fields. _Reciffa_, the Seat of War, hath two Horn-works towards _Olinda_; the first rais’d with Stone, defends the Haven with seven Brass Demi-Culverins; the other lies opposite to the River _Biberi_, and hath five Brass and two Iron Guns. _Reciffa_ also hath a strong Rail about it, and many Guns plac’d in good order. Near the Powder-house stand two Batteries with Guns. On the Shore towards _Olinda_, lies the Stone Castle _St. Joris_, on a Hill opposite to the Haven, fortifi’d with a Bulwark and thirteen Iron Guns. The Water-Castle, built round, rises out of the Sea, and stands at the end of the Stone Cliff, which makes an Inlet, through which the Ships Sail that come to, and go from _Reciffa_. The Fort _Bruine_ hath four Points, seven Brass Guns, and Pallisados round about. Somewhat farther is the Redoubt call’d _The Lady Bruine_, which hath two Brass Guns. The Castle _Waerdenbergh_, built before the Mouth of the River _Capivaribi_, in the Bay made by the River _Biberibi_, hath three Points, each rais’d square, because the fourth Bulwark towards _Antonio Vaes_, cannot be finish’d, by reason the Earth is sunk away. The Fort _Ernestus_ stands on the North-side of _Maurice-stadt_, on the Island _Antonio Vaez_. That part of the City which respects the Fort, lies open, with five Points and a double Horn-work; it is the more secure from any Invasion, because the Countrey round about is overflow’d at High-water. On the Horn-work stand eight Brass Guns; but the four Redoubts along the River _Capivaribi_ are decay’d. The square Fort _Prince William_, standing in a low Ground not far from the River _Afogados_, hath four Bulwarks, and is inclos’d with a high Wall and strong Pallisado’s: the Church appearing above all other Houses in the Castle, may be seen at _Olinda_. [Sidenote: Description of _Maurice-stadt_.] _Maurice-stadt_ lies pleasantly along the River _Biberibi_, and is wash’d behind by the River _Capivaribi_; It hath a large Wharf, a brave Magazine, a _French_ Church, and a Guild-hall: The Buildings are not altogether so high as those in _Reciffa_, where they are commonly three Stories, because the Ground is very dear. _Grave Maurice_’s Court lying opposite to _Reciffa_, on the Shore of _Biberibi_, rises from the middle of a Garden with two high Towers. Not far from the Castle _Ernestus_ is a Potters Kiln, and on the other side, near the Fort _Frederick Henrick_ seven Wells, and some Morasses, and towards the Water-side, a Stone Battery. [Sidenote: Forts of _Brasile_.] The Fort _Orange_ at the Southern Mouth of the Haven, hath, by reason of its dry Moats, a strong Pallisado, four Bulwarks, and twelve Guns. The Bulwarks about the Church, and the Battery before the Haven, also secures _Schuppen-stadt_ against the _Portuguese_. On the Battery stand nine Iron and two Brass Guns. At the Northern Entrance of the Haven appears a Tower with three Guns. The Fort _Margareta_ hath two Brass and forty Iron Guns. _Restringa_, surrounded with Pallisado’s, rises near a sandy Point in the middle of the River. The Castle _Antonio_, wash’d by the Sea, hath onely one Tower, but that sufficiently strong to defend it against an Enemy. The _Franciscan_ Cloyster, strengthned by a Wall and Earthen Works, serve in stead of a Castle to _Frederick-stadt_, and is the more secure by reason of a Half-Moon, Moats, Rails, and a Battery at the Mouth of the Haven. The stonie Fortification of _Ceulen_ lies near the Sea. All these are the Fortresses of the Northern _Brasile_. To the Southward of _Reciffa_ appears the Promontory _St. Augustine_, where the Haven is secur’d by the Forts _Vander Dussen_, _Domburgh_, and a Stone Battery. _Porto Calvo_ is fortifi’d by a Castle, built on a steep Hill forty Foot high. The Fort _Maurice_ Commands the Ferry of _Rio Francisco_, and is built on a high and steep Hill, with five Bulwarks; the lowermost Plain is overflow’d by the River in the Summer Season. The Store-houses hereabouts are ill furnish’d, and if not suddenly supply’d, ’tis to be fear’d, that a great Famine will follow, as already it is begun, and we may thank the faint-heartedness of the Enemy that it hath increas’d no more. [Illustration: MAURITIOPOLIS] [Illustration: CASTRUM MAURITIJ AD RIPAM FLUMINIS S. FRANCISCI] [Illustration: ARX PRINCIPIS GUILJELMI] The _Militia_ is distributed into all the Forts or Villages, that so they may the better procure their Provisions, watch the approach of the _Spaniards_, and prevent all Incroach-ments of the Enemy. In _Maurice_ Castle are five hundred and forty Men in Garrison; in the _Afogados_, two hundred ninety three; in _Camarigibi_ and _Porto Calvo_, four hundred and eighty; in _Serinhain_, seven hundred and eighty; in _Pojuca_, twenty five; in the Mills _Panterra_, ninety seven; at the Promontory _Antonio_, two hundred and forty; in the Castle _Vander Dussen_, a hundred and seventy; the like number is in _Amaro_ and _Moribeca_; in the Village _St. Laurence_, four hundred and twenty two; in the Fort _Prince William_, two hundred and sixty three; in _Frederick Henrick_, hath two hundred and thirty; in _Ernestus_, two hundred and eighty; in _Reciffa_, two hundred and seventy seven; in the Castle _Bruine_, a hundred and twenty five; in _Olinda_, a hundred and ninety three; in _Iguaraza_, ninety three; in _Orange_, a hundred and eighty two; in _Goyana_, a hundred and sixty five; in _Frederick-stadt_, a hundred and one; in the Fort _Margareta_, three hundred and sixty; in the Castle _Ceulen_, eighty eight; in _Antonio Vaes_ lies _Grave Maurice_’s Guard; _Siara_ is defended by forty; so that the whole Power consists of six thousand one hundred and eighty Men, too weak a number to resist the Enemy both by Land and Sea; nay, had he had Courage, the _West-India_ Companies Concerns in _Brasile_ would long since have been in a low Condition; for the _Spanish_ Fleet which came lately from _Cadis_, carry’d three thousand Men, besides seven hundred which they brought from _St. Salvador_; the Duke of _Bagnola_ was also ready with two thousand _Portugueses_, and a thousand _Brasilians_, to joyn with the Seamen, and expected also as great a number from _Parayba_, _Pernambuco_, _Seregippa_, _Itamarica_, _Rio Grande_, and _Siara_, contrary to the Oath taken in _Reciffa_: But the _Spanish_ Fleet keeping close to the Bay _Todos los Sanctos_, hath hitherto done nothing, except the sending of several Companies into the Countrey, to rob and pillage the _Brasilian_ Villages. Moreover, the _Mulatto_’s and _Negro_’s do great mischief up and down, and so much the more, because they go and come along private Ways, through which none can follow them. Most of the Ships being badly fitted, are scarce able to keep the Sea; and the Soldiers want Clothes exceedingly. The City _St. Salvador_ keeps the Countrey in a continual Alarm, so that five thousand Men are requir’d to conquer it: Eighteen great Ships, and as many Ketches, besides lesser Vessels, ought to be sent thither, the Sea being full of Pyrats. The common Treasury is so much behind-hand, that none can receive any Pay. The Owners of the Sugar-Mills will not deliver any Sugar without ready Money, because of the _Netherlanders_ removal from thence. This Relation of the Affairs of the _Netherland West-India_ Company _in Brasile_, was deliver’d to them in Writing by _Vander Dussen_. _A Description, of the Palace_ Freyburgh, _two Bridges, and a Banquetting-house, all built by_ Grave Maurice. _Grave Maurice_ before his coming away from _Brasile_, built a pleasant Palace along the River _Biberibi_, before the Fort _Ernestus_ on _Antonio Vaes_; the outmost Work whereof was shaded by a double Row of _Coco_-Trees, and had a Pond full of all sorts of Fish; and not far from thence, on one side, a second encompass’d a Coney-Warren, which respected a pell-mell; near it a Garden, curiously divided into round _Parterres_, which led into a long Park of _Bakkoven_-Trees; and at the end a great Dove-house. Next the River stood a large Stable, on one side whereof was a Field to whiten Linnen in, and a Kitchin-Garden wherein was a large Spot full of Orange-Trees, a row of Vines, which bore Grapes every three Moneths, and a delightful Walk, beset on each side with Lime-Trees. On the other side of this Palace stood a Banquetting-house, near a row of Pome-granate-Trees, and another of Fig and Cittron-Trees. Behind the Palace was a Fish-pond with two Iles, for the Swans. A Dove-house also appear’d near the Fort _Ernestus_, where the _Negro_’s watch’d the Horses, and led them to Water in a Fishpond in a large Wood. Before the Palace appear’d a Stone Pallisado, which like a Half-Moon ran into the River. The Palace it self rose with two Towers, one of which serv’d for a Sea-mark. Moreover, _Grave Maurice_ extended his new City to the Fort _Frederick Henrick_, divided the Morassie Grounds by several Moats, and laid a Bridge cross the River _Biberibi_, between _Reciffa_ and the City _Maurice_, another cross the Stream _Capivaribi_, between the said City _Maurice_ and the Main Land. In the time when _Albuquerque_ Govern’d _Brasile_ for the King of _Spain_, it was Disputed among the _Portuguese_, whether it were not requisite to desert the City _Olinda_, and causing the Inhabitants to remove to _Reciffa_, joyn the same with a Bridge to the Isle _Antonio Vaes_, because those Places are almost invincible, and much more convenient for Ships than _Olinda_? But the _Hollanders_ surpris’d them on a sudden, before they could bring the Business to pass, and after a while prosecuted the same Design themselves. [Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ his stately Bridge over the River _Biberibi_.] _Grave Maurice_ spent twenty four thousand _Guilders_ in laying a Bridge over the River _Biberibi_, between _Reciffa_ and _Antonio Vaes_. Having rais’d just fifteen Stone Columns from the Ground, they came to the deepest part of the River _Antonio Vaes_, when the Architect began to despair of accomplishing the same, because the Ground lay deep under Water, and the Stream ran very swift: Those which dwelt at _Reciffa_ cry’d, _That they had undertaken a Business which was not in the power of Man to effect, and that there was above ten thousand Pound already spent in vain on fifteen Pillars_: In this sort they began to clamor against _Grave Maurice_, especially the Owners of Houses in _Reciffa_, who foresaw that many would remove from thence to the pleasant Isle _Antonio Vaes_, as soon as the Bridge was finish’d; after which the Houses in _Reciffa_ would be at low Rates. But _Grave Maurice_ judging that the Disgrace would fall upon him, if the Bridge should be left half finish’d, caus’d at his own proper Charge, huge pieces of lasting Timber to be cut, forty and fifty Foot long, and so ramm’d into the Ground, some streight, others sloaping, to support the rest, and in two Moneths finish’d the same. On the first day after this new Bridge was compleated, there went so many People over it, that the Toll which they paid, amounted to above 60 l. _Sterl._ and was after that Farm’d for twenty eight thousand _Guilders_ yearly, a Citizen that pass’d over the same being to pay 2 _d._ and a Negro or Soldier 1 _d._ but a Horseman paid 4 _d._ and a Cart or Wayn 7 _d._ [Sidenote: Another over the River _Capivaribi_.] Since this _Grave Maurice_ built a second Bridge cross the River _Capivaribi_, which joyn’d _Antonio Vaez_ to the Main Continent. This Bridge being eighty six Rods long of durable Timber, was finish’d in seven Weeks. [Sidenote: His Pleasure-house _Bonavista_.] Moreover _Grave Maurice_ built a pleasant Banquetting-house, call’d _Bonavista_, at his own Charge before the said Bridge, from whence he could see the Palace _Freyburgh_, _Olinda_, the Fort _Ernestus_, _Maurice-stadt_, _Reciffa_, the _French_ Church, the Ships in the Harbors, and also the Castle _Frederick Henrick_. This Banquetting-house hath at each corner a Turret, and in the middle thereof a spacious Room, crown’d with a fair Terrace. [Illustration: BOAVISTA] [Illustration: GVIANA siue AMAZONVM REGIO.] [Illustration] CHAP. VIII. Guiana. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Guiana_.] Northward of _Brasile_, over against _Maragnan_, the Countrey of _Guiana_, not improbably suppos’d to be so call’d from the River _Wia_, one of the principal Rivers of the Province, which yet is said to have more and fairer than any other part of _America_ besides: It is by some call’d _The Wild Coast_, for what reason is uncertain, it being found to be a very fruitful and pleasant Countrey: It is Bounded on the East with the _Atlantick_ Ocean, or _Mare del Nordt_; on the West, with some undiscover’d mountainous Countreys, which lie on that side of the _Andes_, on the North it hath the great River _Orenoque_; and on the South that of the _Amazons_, or _Orellana_; which last Name, as we have said before, it derives from _Francisco Orellana_, who is said to have first discover’d it in the Year 1543. It was anciently call’d _Tobo_, _Topoi_, and _Tapera_. This Countrey lieth on both sides of the _Æquator_, extended from the fourth Degree of Southern Latitude, to the eighth Degree of Northern, yet enjoyeth a temperate and good Air, not oppressed with any excessive Heat; which is chiefly attributed to the Breezes or Easterly Winds, almost perpetually about Noon blowing upon it. Towards the Sea-side it is for the most part a flat and level Countrey, in the more Inland parts mountainous and swell’d with Hills, but in all it is generally of such a rich and fertile Soil, that for Fruits, or any outward Commodities of the Earth, it yields not to any other Province of the _New World_, but rather far excelleth the most, having as it were a continual Summer, without Winter or Autumn, the Trees never uncloth’d or made bare, Fruits always ripe, or growing to maturity, the Meadows and Pastures always verdant and green, and, as we said, so excellently well water’d with Rivers, that no Countrey in the World seems comparable to it in this respect. But since the several Occurrences of _Orellana_’s Expedition will give much light to the more particular knowledge of these Parts, we thought good to insert this following Relation thereof. SECT. II. _A Relation of the Journey of_ Francisco Orellana. _Francisco Orellana_ travelling with _Gonsalvo Pizarro_ from _Quito_, to find out the Countrey _Cundirumarca_ (where the Natives, according to the information of a strange _American_, went Arm’d with Golden Plates) he came after a great deal of hardship to the River _Maranon_, where _Pizarro_ building a Brigantine, put all his sick and maimed Men into the same, as also all his Baggage under the Command of _Orellana_, whom he commanded to forage for some Provisions, of which the Army, that was to follow along the Shore, had great want; but _Orellana_ was in few days driven down so far, that he saw no hopes of getting up again in a years time, and Engag’d daily with the _Indians_, which came aboard of him in little Boats; at last he went ashore and conquer’d a Village, in which he found Provisions, some Gold, and Gems of great value: Not long after which he was in great danger, by reason of a River, which with great force fell into the Channel in which he Sail’d, and for the space of two hundred Leagues saw neither Man nor House: Next Landing at a Village, he was by the Governor thereof Presented with Turtles, Partridges, Fish, and other Provisions, and also forewarn’d of the valiant Women, the _Amazones_, which they call’d _Camapuyara_. Going from hence, he met for eighty Leagues together, nothing but steep and craggy Mountains on each side of the Shore, insomuch that he could not Land any where for Provisions. Next coming to the inhabited Province _Machiparo_, he was fiercely assaulted for two days and two nights, by the Casique _Aomagua_, who pursu’d him with several Boats: Not long after having conquer’d a Village, out of which ran several trodden Paths into the Countrey, he came to a River, in the Mouth whereof there lying three Isles, he gave it the Denomination of _La Trinidad_, which washeth a fruitful Coast, along which Sail’d divers small Vessels. Somewhat farther in the River _Trinidad_ stood a Village and Banquetting-house, where _Orellana_ took abundance of Provisions, Silver, Gold, and Earthen Ware curiously Glaz’d and Painted, but judg’d it very hazardous to travel far into the Countrey by the common High-ways, in regard of the multitudes of People that frequented them, to whose Civility he durst not trust; therefore Sailing from hence a hundred Leagues farther, he came to the Countrey belonging to the Lord of _Paguana_, who civilly Entertain’d him, and Presented him with Sheep, not unlike the _Peruvians_, and all manner of good Fruit, which the Countrey affords in great abundance. After this on his Lar-board side he discover’d a River, whose being black like Ink, and disemboguing into another, discolour’d the Water thereof for the space of twenty Leagues; he also saw several Villages, and at last found the Stream to be so broad, that he could not see from one Shore to the other: he took one of the Villages without any resistance, there being none but Women in the Huts, whither the Men came towards the Evening. Near another Village he espy’d seven Heads sticking upon Poles, from whence the Province receiv’d the Denomination _De las Picotas_, from whence ran several pav’d Ways, on each side planted with Trees, into the Countrey; where Landing, he furnish’d himself with _Maiz_, Turtles, Geese, and Parrots, and at _Can_ Island took an _American_ Prisoner, who inform’d him, that he was in the _Amazones’_ Jurisdiction, and that up in the Countrey liv’d a People not unlike the _Spaniards_, amongst whom were two white Women, brought thither up the River by a Lord. Going farther he saw divers Villages on each side of him, and at last Landing in a little Town, he found plenty of Oats, Liquor made of Oats, Cotton, Linnen, a Temple hung round about with Arms, and two Episcopal Miters of divers colours. Near a Promontory jutting out into the River, the Tide went so strong, that he was not able to Land; upon the Point stood several fair Buildings, where were also white Women, of a big stature, with long Hair, who animated the Men to fight. This Countrey, which extends it self a hundred and fifty Leagues along the Shore, with Hills, Pasture-Grounds, and Champain, and well inhabited, being discover’d on _St. John_’s Day, was call’d _The Province De San Juan_; which leaving, he came to several Isles, the biggest whereof extended fifty Leagues in length, all of them standing on high Ground, pleasant, and full of People, who in Boats, by them call’d _Periagues_, valiantly Engag’d with the _Spaniards_; but one of them not long after being taken Prisoner, inform’d them, that the _Amazones_ dwelt in Stone Houses, Wall’d Towns, had plenty of Silver and Gold, and four stately Temples enrich’d with Plates, Dedicated to the Sun. But _Orellana_ Sailing a hundred Leagues farther, along a Coast belonging to the Lord of _Caripuna_, according to the Prisoner’s Relation, the Inhabitants hereabouts shot abundance of poyson’d Arrows at the _Spaniards_, but they made a shift to escape them, and Sailing within sight of Land into the Bay of _Paria_, they came to an Anchor before the Island _Cubugua_, Anno 1541. after they had been eight hundred Leagues. [Illustration: ARX NASSOVII.] [Sidenote: The Expedition of _Orellana_.] [Sidenote: He dies with Grief.] _Orellana_ informing the _Spanish_ Court of his Adventures, desir’d the chief Command of the Province of the _Amazones_, which after earnest Sollicitations he obtain’d, and accordingly setting Sail from _St. Lucar_, he went to the Island _Teneriff_ with three Ships and five hundred Men, where he stay’d three Moneths, and two on _Cape de Verd_. On _Teneriff_ several of his Men ran from him, and on _Cape de Verd_ he bury’d ninety eight, and left fifty sick behind him; yet he Steer’d to _Brasile_, where, meeting with contrary Winds, he had undoubtedly perish’d for lack of Water, if the great Showers of Rain had not supply’d his Wants, one of his Ships carrying seventy Men and eleven Horses, was never heard of, with the other two he Sail’d by _Baxos de San Roque_, and from thence a hundred Leagues Northwardly beyond _Maragnan_, where a great way off at Sea they found fresh Water, in which _Orellana_ Steering, got between the Isles into the River _De las Amazones_, where he Barter’d for Provisions, Sail’d two Leagues up the River, and came to an Anchor before a few Huts, but slenderly stor’d with Provisions, where he spent three Moneths in breaking up one of his Ships, and building a Ketch. In the mean time fifty seven of his Seamen dy’d. Sailing twenty Leagues farther, he lost his best Ship; whereupon he gave order to build a Barque of the Wreck. Thus he spent thirty days in vain to find the fore mention’d Arm of the River _Amazones_: the Barque being finish’d in ten Weeks, and going beyond the Isles _Maribique_ and _Contan_, found the three great Rivers to disembogue into the River _Amazones_, which there was twelve Leagues broad; but wanting Provisions, and the Men being too weak to go farther, they came back to the fruitful Island _Comao_, where a hundred _Spaniards_ setled themselves, the rest going down with the Barque to find out _Orellana_, who, as his Wife inform’d them, dy’d with Grief. The _English_ and _Netherlanders_, who Sail’d hither after the _Spaniards_ left off, ascribe a Breadth of fifty or sixty Leagues to the Mouth of the _Amazone_ River, which discharges its Water with such force into the Northern Ocean, that it keeps its colour and taste above thirty Leagues, according to the ocular testimony of Captain _Harcourt_. The Western Point, by the _Netherlanders_ call’d _The North Cape_, runs with a long Slip of low Land into the Sea, into which more North-Westerly fall the Streams _Taponnowyny_, _Arowary_, _Arykary_, _Cassepouri_, and _Wiapoca_; some of them wash great Wildernesses full of Trees; others glide between pleasant Meadows. Eighty Leagues up the _Amazone_ River the _Vlussingers_ have built a Fort call’d _Nassaw_, on the narrow Island _Cogemines_, which is twenty Leagues long, and separated from the Shore by a Creek, and seven Leagues farther, on another Isle, the Fort _Orange_; from which two Forts they Trade with the Natives, _Arowaccas_ and _Apehous_, bartering _European_ Trifles for Tobacco, Cotton, Sugar, Gums, and several Tinctures. [Sidenote: Sir _Walter Raleigh_ sends _Fisher_ to discover _Cooshebery_ Province.] Sir _Walter Raleigh_, Anno 1595. sending Captain _Fisher_ from _Wiapoco_ to _Leonard Ragapo_, some years before Baptiz’d in _England_, and then Governor of the Province _Cooshebery_, lying between the _Amazone_ River and _Wapoco_, he receiv’d _Fisher_ very civilly, and conducted him fifty Leagues up into the Countrey, to the Mountain _Cowob_, on whose top is a deep Pool, full of well tasted Fish, and surrounded with the glittering Stones _Topaz_; which _Raleigh_ took the more notice of, because the same Ground in the _East-Indies_ where these Stones are found, incloses also Diamonds. Moreover, the Province _Cooshebery_ rises with pleasant Hills, but consists most in delightful Fields and Woods. The River _Arocawo_, falling into the Inlet _Wiapoco_, disembogues also with the same between the Capes _Orange_ and _Comariboo_, into the Northern Ocean. Most of the Rivers in _Guiana_ lie full of Isles, and cannot be Navigated far, by reason of the great Water-falls. [Sidenote: The _Yayos_.] The _Yayos_, who inhabit on the Banks of the fore-mention’d River, are People of a good Disposition, and go naked: they catch Fish after a strange manner; for they onely throw the strong smelling Wood _Ayaw_ in the Water, which works so upon the Fish, that they suffer themselves to be caught with the Hand. The well-known _American_ Root _Cassavi_ serves them for Bread, being bak’d in round Cakes on hot Stones: of the Cakes they also make the Liquor _Perrinoe_, which tastes almost like stale Beer, and is prepar’d by old Women and little Children, which chew the _Cassavi_, and spit the same into a Pot full of Water, which having stood a while, they strain the same through a Cloth, and set it a working with Potato-Roots. They are troubled with no Vermine, not so much as the little Fleas _Niquas_, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Chigos_, which creep in between the Nails. On the Sea-Coast are many Tortoises, whose Flesh is of a delicious taste, but heavy to digest. Sheep and Oxen will not thrive here, but Swine would thrive exceedingly, if their Dugs were not bit off in the Night by the Bats. The River _Wiapoco_ hath many dangerous Water-falls, the one much higher than the other; a little way beyond the first of them the Stream _Army_ falls into _Wiapoco_. [Sidenote: The _Marashewaccas_.] Three days Journey Westerly dwell the _Marashewaccas_, whose Ears hang down on their Shoulders; they worship for their Deity, an Image representing a Man, who sitting flat on the Ground, with his Legs stretch’d out, leans with his Elbows on his Knees, and holding up his Hands, gapes and stares up towards Heaven. North-West from _Wiapoco_ rises the Mountain _Gomeribo_, which produces _Maiz_, Tobacco, Cotton-Trees, and Vines. In the same place the Creek _Wainary_ runs Westwardly with fresh Water a days Journey into the Countrey; and from the said Creek a high Mountain, fit for the production of Sugar and Tobacco, extends it self to the River _Apurwaca_, where the _Wiopocaries_ inhabit a great Tract of Land. [Sidenote: The _Harrithiahans_.] North-West from _Wiapoco_ flows the River _Aperwacque_, whose mountainous Shores bear _Brasile_ Wood and wild Cinamon. The Stream it self takes its original out of a large Lake, in the middle whereof lies a three-corner’d Isle. South-East from the Lake dwell the _Harrithiahans_, beyond whose Countrey are the Rivers _Cauwo_, _Wia_, and _Cajani_. On the Banks of the first dwelt, _Anno 1596._ according to the Relation of _Laurence Keymis_, a People call’d _Jaos_, driven by the _Spaniards_ from _Moruga_, and who formerly possess’d the greatest part of _Guiana_; they distinguish themselves from other People, by pricking their Faces full of Holes with the Tooth of a Beast not unlike a Rat: But at present, the _Jaos_ being departed from hence, the Countrey lies desolate. The _Wia_, which springs a great way up in the Countrey, hath a wide Mouth, and near several Islands convenient Harbors: The biggest of the Isles, inhabited by the _Shebaios_, is full of Provisions, _viz._ Fowl, Fish, excellent Fruit, wild Hogs, and other Beasts. The triangular Isles, lying more Westerly, are also very fruitful, but not comparable to _Gowatery_. So far as the Coast extends it self with high Mountains, it is overgrown with _Brasile_ Wood, but the lower Grounds produce Cotton, Pepper, Silk, Balsam, and the Root _Wiapassa_, tasting like Ginger, and exceeding good against a Lask, or the Head-ache. Before the Mouth of _Cajani_ appears the high Island _Mattoory_, surrounded by the lesser Isles _Sannawony_, _Epenesari_, and _Eponeregemeræ_. Between the Rivers _Cajani_ and _Maccaria_, lies the low Island _Muccumbro_, out of whose Center rise two Mountains, and which is inhabited, as the Main Coast by _Caribbeeans_, whose General _Arrawicary_ shew’d great friendship to the _Netherlanders_: They observe no certain Laws for Government; Adultery and Murder they punish with Death; they are very tyrannical towards their Wives, who for the least act of incivility have their Brains beat out; they esteem one another according to the number of their Wives, the eldest of which performs all Houshold-Offices. [Sidenote: _Caribbeeans_ the Inhabitants of _Guiana_.] The _Caribbeeans_ are accounted to have been the first Inhabitants of this Countrey, for the _Jaos_, _Sappaios_, _Arowaccas_, and _Paragotos_, were driven hither by the _Spaniards_ from _Trinidad_ or _Oronoque_. The wild _Caribbeeans_ live farther up into the Countrey, and often fall with great rage upon the other; but since the _Netherlanders_ have furnish’d them with Arms, they have not been so much molested by them. [Sidenote: Rivers.] Beyond _Macavia_ lies the River _Caurora_, which is very narrow and deep; and next in order the Rivers _Manamonary_, _Sinamary_, _Cunanama_, _Juraca_, _Mawary_, _Amana_, and _Marawyny_, full of Isles, and four Leagues broad at the Mouth; along the Shore grow little Trees, whose Leaves wither as soon as touch’d by Mankind, but revives again within half an hour. Next follow the Rivers _Sorrenam_, _Sorrenamme_, _Copanama_, _Marateca_, and _Curetiny_, where the _Netherlanders_, by virtue of a Patent granted by the _States General_, drove a Trade for several years. Somewhat farther the _Berbice_, _Apari_, _Maycawini_, _Mabeyca_, _Mirara_ and _Essekebe_, discharge their Waters into the Ocean, twenty days Journey from their Spring-Head, where a great Lake (by the _Jaos_ call’d _The Roponowini_, and by the _Caribbeeans_, _Parime_) spreads it self a great way; and on its Northern Shore hath the Town _Manoa_. Along the River _Essebeke_ is an excellent sort of Wood, the Dye call’d _Orellano_, and abundance of _Cassavi_: In the Mouth of the River also lies the Isle _Ottoma_. Lastly, between _Essebeke_ and the great River _Orinoque_, glide the lesser Streams _Iwapoi_, _Pauroma_, _Gayni_, _Moruga_, _Ammacoura_, and _Parima_, before which lie several nameless Isles. [Sidenote: The Discovery of these Parts begun by _Columbus_.] [Sidenote: _Diego de Ordas_ his Expedition.] _Christopher Columbus_, in his third Voyage to the _West-Indies_, discover’d the great Island _Trinidad_, where before the Mouth of the Bay _Vallena_ he was in great danger, as also the Ship Commanded by _Alonso de Ojeda_, by reason of the Waves, with which the great River _Yuyapar_, otherwise call’d _Orinoque_, coming out of the High-lands of _Paria_, falls into the Sea, which made him call the said Mouth _Bocca del Drago_; so that _Columbus_, Anno 1599. discover’d the Main Coast of _America_ to the Northward of _Guiana_, as far as the Promontory _De la Vela_, before _Americus Vesputius_; whither _Diego de Ordas_ Steer’d with three Ships, Mann’d with four hundred _Castilians_, in the Year 1531. and before _Guiana_ took four _Caribbeeans_ Prisoners in a _Canoo_, and finding an _Emerauld_ about them as big as a Man’s Hand, they inform’d him, that up the River was a Rock all of such Stones, and a Mountain on which grew high Trees, yielding store of Myrrh; but the strong contrary Tides and Water-falls prevented _Ordas_ from going thither; and being troubled at the loss of one of his Ships, he ran along the Shore to _Paria_, and took the Fort which _Antonio Sedenno_, Governor of _Trinidad_, had cast up there, and left the Command thereof to _Juan Gonsalvez_, _Ordas_ pretending that _Sedenno_ had built it contrary to the Emperor’s Order, and that he had made Slaves of the Natives. _Martin Jannez Tafur_ stay’d in the conquer’d Fort according to _Ordas_ his appointment, who went up the River _Orinoque_ not without great hardship; for his Provisions were not onely short, but he was tormented in the Day by the _Muschitoes_, and in the Night by the Bats; at last coming to a Village Commanded by _Viapari_, he was kindly Entertain’d, which made _Ordas_ contrary to the will of his Men, who would willingly have gone farther into the Countrey, stay there all the Winter; but as soon as the rainy Moneths were over, _Ordas_ went farther up the River _Orinoque_, where his Ship was stav’d against a sandy Shelf, which forc’d him with two hundred Foot and forty Horse, to travel along the Shore, where he was much scanted of Provisions, and for forty days together met none but a few poor wild Fishermen, and at last stopt at an unknown River, which fell into the _Orinoque_. The _Guianian_ Guide which _Viapari_ had given _Ordas_, advis’d him to go along the Shore of the new River; because it would lead them to a well Cloth’d and rich People: But _Ordas_ went along by the River _Oronoque_ till he came where the Water falling from the Mountains makes it so terrible rough, that _Ordas_ his Vessels, which were Toed along, were not able to be got any farther, so that after two hundred Leagues advance, he was necessitated, by reason of the fore-mention’d Water-falls, to go aboard and Sail down the Stream: His Men being weary’d with so troublesom a Journey, forsook him on the Island _Cubagua_, which made him return over _Hispaniola_ to _Spain_, where not long after he dy’d with Grief. [Sidenote: The Expedition of _Hieronimo Ortall_.] This unsuccessful Expedition of _Ordas_ no way daunted _Hieronimo Ortall_ from prosecuting the same Design; for setting Sail from _St. Lucas_, Anno 1533. to the Fort which _Ordas_ had taken from _Juan Gonsalves_, he Steer’d from thence over to _Cubagua_, to fetch some Men, and sent the Lieutenant _Alonso Herrera_ with five Ketches, carrying two hundred Men, the same way which _Ordas_ had been. _Herrera_ coming to the fore-mention’d Water-falls where _Ordas_ return’d, caus’d his Vessels to be unladen, then Toed them by meer force over the Water-falls, where he discover’d plain Fields without any Inhabitants, extending themselves to the Mouth of the River _Meta_, where he quitted his Vessels, and with no small trouble got over Morasses and Pools to the fruitful Countrey of the _Xaguas_, a People both cruel and valiant; whom after a sharp Conflict vanquishing, he became Master of their Village, in which he found plenty of Provisions, as also in another neighboring Town, where his tir’d, and almost starv’d Army began to take Breath, being exceedingly refresh’d with the delicious Meat of a sort of wild Dogs, which were here in great abundance. Having spent the Winter Season here, they were often set upon by the _Caribbeeans_, by whose poyson’d Arrows several of them being shot, dy’d Distracted, and amongst the rest _Herrera_ himself; after which his Successor _Alvaro Ordas_ return’d to the Vessels, which were left at the Mouth of the River _Meta_, from whence he Sail’d back without any other success, the Design being to find out the Golden City _Manoa_, on the Banks of the great Lake _Parime_. [Sidenote: Is follow’d by _Hermandes_ and others.] Not long after _Peter Hermandez de Serpa_ undertook the same Work with three hundred _Spaniards_, several _Brasilians_ and _Negro_’s; but before he could reach the River _Orinoque_, he was destroy’d by the salvage People _Wikiri_, eighteen of his Men onely escaping to bring the news of this sad Disaster. _Peter de Orsua_ following the footsteps of _Gonsalvo Pizarro_, went to seek for Gold in _Guiana_; but being kill’d by _Lopes Agira_ near the _Amazone_ River, that Expedition also prov’d fruitless. [Sidenote: _Berreo_’s Relation of his Adventures to Sir _Walter Raleigh_.] With the same desire of finding Gold in _Guiana_, _Antonio Berreo_ went from _New Granada_ thither; but being taken by Sir _Walter Raleigh_, was interrupted in his Design; however, he gave him an Account of his Adventures, so far as he had gone, _viz._ That he went to find out a Way along the River _Cassanor_, between _New Granada_ and _New Guiana_, went from _Cassanor_ to the Stream _Meta_, and from thence to _Orinoque_, where he was in great danger, by reason of sharp Rocks, over which the Stream flowing, washes several Isles; That he spent a whole year before he came to the utmost Borders of _Amapaia_; near which he lost several of his Barques, and on the Shore, not onely divers Horses, but also many of his Men, who either dy’d of hardship, or were kill’d by the Natives with poysonous Arrows, so that sixty of his Men were kill’d in the Countrey of _Amapaia_, which extends along the River Orinoque, besides a great many that dy’d there by drinking the Water, which was full of poysonous Animals, and glided over a slimy and muddy Ground, which made it thick and troubled: Six Moneths he stay’d in the Countrey _Amapaia_, where he made Peace with the Inhabitants of _Anebas_, who gave him ten curious Images of massie Gold. The River _Orinoque_ is about four Leagues broad here, and about seven hundred Miles long, before it fall into the Ocean, and is every where enrich’d with the Waters of many Rivers which fall into it from the North and South: He added moreover, that he endeavor’d to go down Southerly to _Guiana_, but was prevented by steep Mountains, and therefore went on Easterly till he came to the Countrey _Emeria_, where he found a courteous People, and plenty of Provisions; that the Governor of _Caripana_, being about a hundred years of age, had a long time Convers’d with the _Christians_ on the Islands _Trinidad_ and _Margareta_, and learn’d a Form of Civil Government; that Sailing down the River _Orinoque_ between many Isles lying at the Mouth of the River to _Trinidad_, and from thence to _Margareta_, he took sixty Men into his Service; but that he himself, being tir’d with so great a Journey, and staying to refresh himself at _Trinidad_, fell into the hands of another Party of the _English_; that before he was taken he sent several of his Men to _Caripana_, to find the King of _Morequito_, who three years before had been with abundance of Gold at _Cumana_ and _Margareta_, and inform’d a _Spaniard_ call’d _Vides_ so much concerning the Golden Countrey _Guiana_, that he obtain’d a Patent at the _Spanish_ Court to discover _Guiana_; but that _Vides_, jealous that he might be there before him, had not onely incens’d _Morequito_ against him, but so instructed him, that he suffer’d his Men to pass through the Countrey to fetch Gold from the City _Manoa_, and as they return’d, set upon them and slew them on the Borders of _Aromaia_, together with a Monk that was in their Company, one Man onely escaping; by whom being inform’d of the Murder, he immediately sent divers Soldiers to take Revenge of _Morequito_, who flying to the Governor _Vides_, was nevertheless, upon his demanding him in the King’s Name, deliver’d to him; and notwithstanding he proffer’d a great Sum of Money for his Ransom, was cruelly put to Death; but not satisfi’d with that Revenge, he over-run all the Countrey of _Aromaia_, took _Morequito_’s Uncle, call’d _Topiawari_, Prisoner, who bought his Life for a hundred Plates of Gold, and some Precious Stones; That Listing many Men in _Spain_ for the Gold which he sent thither, he Row’d with Barques up the Rivers _Barema_, _Pattroma_, and _Dessequebe_, where he barter’d Trifles for Men, Women, and Children, of whom he made great Sums of Money on the Island _Margareta_. This Information which Sir _Walter Raleigh_ got from his Prisoner _Berreo_, made him desirous to make an Expedition to _Guiana_; to which purpose he sent Captain _George Gifford_ with a Ketch and a Barque to the River _Capuri_, where the Water fell before the Vessels could get beyond the Sands in the Mouth of the River. _John Donglas_ had better success, being likewise sent out by Sir _Walter Raleigh_, for he with his Boats found that _Orinoque_ had nine Arms to the North Sea, and seven to the South, which embrace divers Isles, of which those on the right side are call’d _Pallamos_, and those on the left, _Horotomaca_. The Mouth of the River gapes a hundred Leagues. On the fore-mention’d Isles dwell the _Titiriras_, a modest People, who speak a bald Language; in the Summer they live under the open Skie upon the bare Earth, and in the Winter (being there between _May_ and _September_) on the tops of the Trees, because during that time the River _Orinoque_ rising thirty Foot higher, overflows all the Isles thereabouts, which are very high and mountainous. But _Raleigh_ himself Rowing up the River _Amana_, endur’d great hardship, his Men being most of them sweltred with the Heat, and great want of Provisions; and had not their _Indian_ Pilot shew’d them another Stream much easier to Navigate, he would have been forc’d to return successless; but being stor’d with Provision out of a Village built along the Shore, he chased four _Canoos_, of which he took one, and also an _Atwaccas_, which in fifteen days time brought him into the River _Orinoque_, where he saw the high Mountains of _Guiana_; afterwards Anchoring before a fair sandy Bank, which lay near the Mouth of three Rivers, he took abundance of Tortoises, and was furnish’d with plenty of all sorts of Provisions, sent him from the Governor _Toparimaca_, who inhabited the pleasant Village _Arowocay_, built on a little Hill, surrounded with delightful Gardens, and Fields till’d by the _Negro_’s; who accommodating _Raleigh_ with an experienc’d Pilot, he set Sail with a fresh Easterly Wind, and Westward saw the Isles _Assapana_, twenty five Leagues long, and six broad, and _Iwana_, of the same bigness. The River _Orinoque_ hath here thirty Leagues in breadth, and receives the Rivers _Arrawopana_ and _Europa_: He Sail’d next by the Isles _Ocaywita_ and _Putayma_, opposite to which on the Main Land appears the Mountain _Oecope_, whose top reacheth the Clouds; on the right side a Plain Countrey discover’d it self a vast way, which the Pilot said was call’d _The Plain of Sayma_, extending Northerly a hundred and twenty Leagues to _Cumana_ and _Caracas_, inhabited by four sorts of People, _viz._ the _Saymas_, _Assaways_, _Wikeries_ and _Aroras_; which last, being a Coal-black People, us’d poyson’d Arrows. _Raleigh_ passing between the two Mountains _Aroami_ and _Aio_, came to an Anchor near the Island _Murscolima_, and from thence into the Haven _Morequito_, where the King _Topiawari_, a hundred and ten years of age, brought all sorts of Fruit, Poultrey, Fish and Flesh, and gave him an Account of the Condition of _Guiana_, _viz._ That the whole Countrey from the Mountains _Waccarima_ to _Emeria_, bore the Name of _Guiana_, the Inhabitants calling themselves _Orinoque Poni_; on the other side of the said Mountains lies the spacious Valley _Amariocapana_, where the _Guianiatas_ reside. Southerly the _Oreiones_ and _Epuremei_, who coming out of a strange Countrey, have destroy’d the ancient Inhabitants, leaving onely the _Awaawaqueri_ and _Cassipagoios_. The _Epuremei_ built the stately City _Macurewarai_ there. But _Raleigh_ going on his Journey saw the Island _Caiama_, and came to the Mouth of the River _Caroli_, whose strong Current he was not able to stem, wherefore he desir’d Aid from _Wanuretona_, Governor of _Canuria_, who furnish’d him with Provisions, and Men to Toe him up the fore-mention’d Stream; and inform’d him that the River _Caroli_, which sprung out of the Lake _Cassipa_, was inhabited on one side by the _Iwarawakeri_, and the Lake _Cassipa_ by three powerful People, _viz._ the _Cassiapagotos_, _Eparagotos_ and _Arawogotos_, all mortal Enemies to the _Spaniards_: whereupon _Raleigh_ sent some of his Men thither, who return’d with great hopes of finding rich Gold-Mines. The fore-mention’d Lake also produces the Rivers _Aroi_, _Atoica_, and _Caora_, near which dwell the _Ewaipanoma_, who have neither Necks nor Chins, but their Mouthes just upon their Shoulders. Towards the North the River _Cari_ falls into the _Orinoque_, and on the West the Stream _Limo_; between both which the _Cannibals_ reside, whose Metropolis call’d _Acamacari_ is very famous for their strange way of Trading; for there the Women are brought to Market, and bought by the _Arwaccas_: But because great Showers of Rain fell daily, and the Stream _Caroli_ glided downwards with extraordinary force, _Raleigh_ return’d to _Morequito_; from whence _Putima_, King of _Warapana_, conduced him to a rich Golden Mountain in his Countrey, and along the Rivers _Mana_, _Oiana_, and _Cumaca_, to the place where the _Orinoque_ divides it self into three excellent Streams, the chiefest whereof, call’d _Cararoopana_, washes the Province _Emeria_, out of whose Mountains the Rivers _Waracayari_, _Coirama_, _Akaniri_, and _Iparoma_, glide to the Northern Ocean; as also the _Araturi_, _Amacura_, _Barima_, _Wana_, _Morooca_, _Paroma_, and _Wyni_, all Branches of the River _Orinoque_: From whence _Raleigh_ return’d home to _England_. Not long after he sent _Laurence Keymes_ and _Thomas Masham_ back to _Guiana_: _Keymes_ found out all the Rivers between the _Amazones_ and the _Orinoque_, and _Masham_ the Stream _Wiapoco_; from whence both return’d without any farther success. [Sidenote: Sir _Walter Raleigh_ condemn’d for Treason.] [Sidenote: He is Repriev’d and sent again to _Guiana_.] [Sidenote: _Raleigh_ upon _Gundamor_’s Accusation Beheaded.] After this the Business lay still for a while, in regard Sir _Walter Raleigh_ being (together with _Grey_, _Cobham_, and the _Romish_ Priests, _Watson_ and _Clark_) found guilty of High Treason, was Condemn’d to die; but being Repriev’d by the King, was kept a Prisoner in the _Tower_ for the space of fourteen years; during which time he wrote a Description of _Guiana_; which the King perusing, was so well pleas’d with it, especially since he undertook to make out by several Reasons, that _England_ might make it self Master of divers Gold-Mines there, to which _Spain_ could lay no manner of Claim, that he discharg’d him out of Prison, and permitted him to make a second Expedition: Whereupon with ten Ships, _Anno 1617._ he set Sail for _Guiana_ again; being toss’d with divers Storms, he at last came with five Sail to the River _Calliana_, where he fell dangerously sick, and therefore sent Captain _Keymes_ with five Sail to the River _Orinoque_, to conduct the Men to the Gold-Mines; each Ship carrying fifty Men, and the other Captains being _Parker_, _North_, _Thornap_, and Sir _Walter Raleigh_’s Son. The _Spaniards_ having a Garrison at _Orinoque_, fir’d very fiercely at the _English_, who suffer’d great damage, and amongst divers others, Captain _Raleigh_ himself was slain, whilest the other five Sail lay near the Island _Trinidad_, under _John Pennington_’s Command, who daily fear’d the _Spanish_ Fleet. But _Keymes_ found it very difficult to Land in _Orinoque_, by reason of the Banks along the Shore, which _Diego de Palameque_ from _Puerto Rico_ kept strongly guarded; therefore going to an even Shore with intention to Land, he was so sharply receiv’d by a Body of _Spanish_ Musquetteers, that divers of his Men were mortally wounded; yet breaking in amongst them, he went towards the Gold-Mines, to which the Way led through a Wood where the _Spaniards_ lay in Ambuscade; but he judg’d himself too weak to do any good upon the Mines, one of which belong’d to _Peter Rodrigo de Parama_, a second to _Herviano Frontino_, and the third to _Francisco Fashardo_: The _English_ also were fearful, by reason of the _Spaniards_ Cruelties, who not long before had flay’d several Merchants alive; so that _Keymes_ contented himself with pillaging and burning the Town _St. Thomas_, which the _Spaniards_ had deserted. Soon after which Captain _Whitby_ ran away with a Ship from the Fleet, whilest _Keymes_ return’d back to _Raleigh_, who laid several things to his Charge concerning the unnecessary Expence and shame of such an unsuccessful Voyage; which so wrought upon _Keymes_, that he offer’d to lay violent hands on himself in his Cabbin. At length _Raleigh_ returning to _London_, was accus’d by the _Spanish_ Ambassador _Gundamor_ for the burning _St. Thomas_, urging that his Master resented it so ill, that he threatned to wage a War with _England_ if _Raleigh_ was not Executed; who notwithstanding he alledg’d, That the _Spaniards_ shew’d the first Acts of Hostility against the _English_, who onely defended themselves; and that _St. Thomas_ was burnt without his knowledge or Order; and that _Keymes_ had not observ’d his Command in the discovering of the Gold-Mines, (which Apologies were generally look’d upon as real Truths) yet the King esteeming the Peace with _Spain_ of more value than one Man’s Life, without taking notice of _Gundemor_’s Accusations, commanded that the Sentence formerly pass’d on him for Treason should be Executed, and accordingly in the sixtieth year of his Age he was Beheaded, discovering himself, by his Christian Behavior and Profession at his Death, to be a far other kind of Person than what the World had censur’d him to be. Since this last Expedition of Sir _Walter Raleigh_, we find not that there hath been any great Resort or Trade unto this Countrey, except by a few _Netherland_ Merchants, who have yearly sent eight or nine Ships to the River _Orinoque_ for Tobacco. [Sidenote: The temperature of the Air.] As for the Air or Climate of _Guiana_, it is very differing, for about the _Amazone_ River, dry Weather begins about _August_, and the windy and rainy Season about _February_; but Westward towards _Orinoque_, the Summer takes beginning in _October_, and the Winter in _April_; the Days and Nights are almost of an equal length, and the difference of Heat and Cold is but little. Burning-Feavers, Dropsie, and the _Jawnes_, destroy many People here; which last is not unlike the _POX_, and proceeds from carnal Copulation with the _Guianian_ Women, who are naturally subject to this Disease. [Sidenote: The Nature of the Inhabitants.] The Inhabitants are divided into several sorts, the chiefest whereof being the _Caribbees_ go naked, covering onely their Privities with a Lappet. The Women, though yellow, are very comely; and both Men and Women paint their Bodies with _Netto_, which grows on little Trees in Cods: They make Holes through their Noses, Lips and Ears, and hang Glass, Bells, pieces of Copper, or any other Trifles that they get from the _English_ and _Netherlanders_, in them: About their Necks, Arms and Legs, they wear Strings of Beads, or Cockle-shells. Their Houses with low Roofs, serve them onely to sleep in the Night upon Cotton Hammocks, for in the day-time they sit under high Arch’d open places, that the Wind may blow full upon them. Their Houshold-stuff consists of Earthen Pots and Dishes neatly painted. They live in Tribes or Families together in a Town, which is Govern’d by the eldest of them; and their _Militia_ is Commanded by one that is able to endure most Stripes with Switches without any shew of pain. The chiefest of their Families have commonly three or four Wives, whereas others are contented with one. The Men seldom do any toilsom Work, but make their Wives do all, insomuch that as soon as a Woman is Deliver’d of a Child, she must immediately go about her usual Employment, whilest her Husband lies lozelling out his Moneth on a Hammock. Their Language sounds not unpleasantly, but is hard to learn, because many words differ but little in the pronunciation, and yet have quite another signification. When they march into the Field against their Enemies, then the General sends a Stick to all the Villages under his Jurisdiction, on which are cut so many Notches as there are Days appointed before he intends to set forth, which they cut out again as the Days expire, and on the last they repair to the appointed place. A not much unlike Custom they observe in all Promises and Bargains; for they give one another as many Sticks as they desire Days to perform the same in, and so throw away every day one, till they have onely one remaining, and then they begin to think of performing their Promise or Bargain. They know no word whereby to express any greater number than Ten; Twenty they express by laying their ten Fingers on their Toes, and all that exceeds Twenty, they compare to the Hairs of their Head, crying _Ounsa awara_. Some of the painted _Canoos_ made of the Trunks of Trees, will carry five or six Tuns. [Sidenote: Their manner of Fighting, Religion, _&c._] In their Wars they use Bowes, poyson’d Arrows, short Truncheons of speckled Wood, and Shields full of carv’d Images, and Fight without any Order. They go upon no Design but in the Night, and upon certain advantages. All Women and Children which they take Prisoners, are sold for Slaves, but the Men are cruelly put to death. There is but little of Religion that can be ascrib’d to these People, onely that some shew Reverence to the Sun and Moon, which they believe are both living Creatures; but they make no Offerings to them. Their Funeral-Feasts for great Persons are strangely kept, _viz._ all the Men making themselves Drunk with the Liquor _Parranoro_, Dance three or four days one after another, and he that drinks most, and is worst Drunk, gains the greatest Honor, whilest the Women lament and mourn for the Deceased. Their Priests, call’d _Peeaios_, are in great esteem amongst them, because they pretend that they Converse with the Spirits _Wattipa_ and _Yarakin_, which the _Guianians_ exceedingly fear, apprehending themselves often beaten black and blue by them. The _Peeaios_ also profess themselves to be Chirurgeons and Doctors, but if they cure not their Patients, they go in danger of their Lives, unless they speedily get away. They burn their dead Bodies, together with those things the Deceased affected most in his Life-time. A Prince or Governor also hath his Slaves put to death at the time when he is burn’d, that they may serve him in the other World. [Sidenote: Their Bread-Corn.] The _Cassavi_-Root press’d, boyl’d with Pepper, dry’d and bak’d on hot Stones, serves the Natives for Bread. Each Grain that is Sown here produces in Harvest above fifteen hundred. Their Corn makes wholsom and well tasted Beer, call’d _Passiaw_, and of their stamp’d _Cassavi_ they make the Liquor _Parranow_. In hollow Trees, and Caves under Ground, they find abundance of Honey; and their Vines afford them excellent Grapes twice a year. No Plant is ever seen here without either Leaf, Blossom, or Fruit, except the _European_ Apple-Tree, which never changes its nature, but blossoms and bears Fruit at the same time of the year as in _Europe_. The wild Hogs _Pokkiero_, whose Navels grow on their Backs; and the _Pangio_, not unlike our Swine, afford the Inhabitants excellent Food. Here are also Water-hogs, of a very delicious taste; but because they are very apprehensive, and dive at the least noise, they are seldom taken. The Woods are full of Baboons and Apes, as also the slothful Beast _Ai_. The Hares here, being of a brown Colour, with white Specks, and the red Rabbets, are accounted great Delicacies. There is no Countrey in _America_, which breeds greater _Armadillo_’s than _Guiana_, some of them weighing eighty Pound. Here are also Bears, which live on nothing but Pismires; they have long hairy Tails, with which they cover their Bodies in rainy Weather; they put their Tongues a Foot deep into the Pismires Nests, and so pulls them out. The Tygers here are either black, spotted, or red; but the black exceed the other in cruelty, yet are seldom seen near inhabited places; the spotted and red devour abundance of Cattel, but will seldom set upon a Man, especially in the day-time. The Woods are also full of Land-Turtles, which the Inhabitants take, and keep till they have occasion to make use of their Flesh. The Eagles that are here with their Claws, Engage with those that go about to take them. The Catamountains make such an exceeding noise at a certain hour, both in the Night and in the Day, that it is heard two Leagues off. The _Marmozets_, a little Beast, biting the Catamountains and Apes in the Ears, forces them to leap from one Tree to another. The black Beast _Quotto_ hath a Face like an old Woman, and hanging by the Tail, swings from one Tree to another. The _Cuscary_ is a brown four-footed Creature, about the bigness of a little Dog, but hath the shape of a Lyon. [Sidenote: Birds.] Moreover, _Guiana_ produces Teal, Geese, Crains, Phesants, Partridges, Pigeons, Marlins, Snipes, Falcons, Plovers, and Parrots of all sorts, besides many other strange Fowls; amongst which the chiefest are a sort whose Feathers glitter like Scarlet, and walk along in Rank and Fyle like Soldiers. [Sidenote: Fish.] The Sea produces abundance of Turbots, Soals, Thornback, yellow Salmon, Sturgeon, Black-fish, Gurnets, Crabs, and Oysters. Amongst other Fishes, the _Cassoorwa_, which is somewhat bigger than an Eel, is very strange, having two Sights in each Eye, of which it always holds one above, and the other underneath the Water when it swims. Here are also the great Fishes call’d _Manati_ and _Num-eel_, by which if any part of a Man be touch’d, it immediately becomes stiff. [Sidenote: Vermin.] There are likewise divers Vermine, which trouble the Countrey _Guiana_, among which are Serpents, of thirty Foot long, that come out of the Water and feed on the Land; they do little hurt, as not being poysonous: but there are many of a lesser size, whose biting is so venomous, that it causes the Flesh of a Man to rot in twenty four hours time: others there are which have forked Tails, and Tusks in the Roof of their Mouthes. The Crocodiles here also devour abundance of Cattel. [Sidenote: Strange kind of Scorpions.] The Scorpions, which are black, and resemble a Lobster, breed under dry Wood or Corn; their Stings are hid in their Tails, with which if any one be touch’d, he is sure to endure an intolerable pain, but without danger of losing his Life for the present, yet nothing can perfectly cure the same, except the Scorpion kill’d and laid on the Wound. The Bats here are as big as Pigeons, and they suck the Blood of Men and Beasts so gently, that they seldom perceive the same. The Pismires also do great mischief, especially in sandy Grounds; and likewise the _Musketo_’s, whose Stings cause painful Swellings; but these most of all trouble them that inhabit near the Sea side on low Lands, insomuch that the Fisher-men bury themselves in the Night in Sand, leaving onely Holes to breathe at. Frogs and Toads also make a terrible noise here, and especially after Rain. [Sidenote: Commodities of the Countrey.] The Soil is inferior to none in the World, for the production of Sugar; but the general Commodities of the Countrey are Flax, Cotton, Hemp, the Berry _Annoto_, which Dyes an excellent Orange colour, another Berry which Dyes a deep Blue, a Tree whose Leaves Dye a Red, and the Wood of another Tree whose Juice Dyes a Purple and Crimson. Moreover, _Guiana_ produces the Gums _Lemnia_, _Barattu_, and _Carriman_, which being black and prickly, smells very pleasantly, and cures the Head-ache, Bruises, Pains in the Limbs, Gouts, and green Wounds. The same operation hath the Gum _Baratta_. Here are also good _Sena_, _Bolus Armenius_, _Cassia-Fistula_, _Terra-Lemnia_, the Berry _Kelette_, very effectual against the Bloody-flux, the Juice of the Leaf _Upee_, which cures the Wounds of poyson’d Arrows, and a sort of somniferous Apples, whereof the least bite occasions a deadly Sleep. There is also a Tree, generally growing about the Houses of the Natives, the Boughs whereof bruis’d between two Stones, and thrown into the Creeks of deep Water full of Fish, cause them to swim above Water upon their Backs. The _Letter_-Wood call’d _Pira timinere_, turns also to a good account, much more the excellent Stones, Jasper and Porphyr. Nor are there wanting Gold and Silver-Mines, which doubtless would yield great profit, were they open’d. The Grain of the Countrey grows on Stalks seven Foot long, on the tops whereof hang two Ears full of Kernels as big as Pease, which ripens in four Moneths. The Sugar-Canes, being of the bigness of a Man’s Arm, and about six Foot long, are at the years end cut off, broken and press’d in a Mill; after which the Juice boyl’d in Copper Kettles to a certain Substance, is put into woodden Tunnels, square at the top, and narrow at bottom, with a small Hole, which is open’d as soon as the Sugar is sufficiently hardned, to let out the Syrrup; after which it is put into Hogsheads, and so Transported. The _Negro_’s which are brought from _Angola_ and _Guinee_, are so cruelly us’d, that they oftentimes through despair destroy themselves. The whole Countrey of _Guiana_ is by several modern Writers methodically divided into these inferior or lesser Provinces, 1. _Rio de las Amazones._ 2. _Wiapoco_, or _Guiana_, properly so call’d. 3. _Orenoque_; and 4. The Islands of _Guiana_. [Sidenote: _Rio de las Amazones._] _Rio de las Amazones_, or the Countrey of the _Amazones_, contains all that part of _Guiana_ which lieth on both sides of the River _Orellano_, of a rich and good Soil, generally, abounding with all sorts of Fruits, and especially with those which the _Americans_ call _Totok_, and love it extreamly, out of an opinion, they say, that it excites them to Venery, whereunto they are of themselves but too much inclin’d; and another which they call _Pita_, of a taste far more delicious and pleasing, and not so hurtful as the other. The Countrey was first discover’d by the fore-mention’d _Francisco Orellana_, a _Spaniard_ from _Quito_, but it was onely by the River _Orellana_; and though he be credibly reported to have Sail’d no less than eighteen hundred Leagues down the Stream, and to have discover’d a rich and fair Countrey on both sides the River, well peopled with Natives, and giving in divers places no small Arguments of greater Wealth and Riches more within Land; yet such was the bad success of his second Endeavors, and likewise of those that follow’d him, as is evident from what hath been before related, that, as yet, there seems no farther Report to be given, at least not of any thing special, concerning that part of the Countrey. [Sidenote: _Wiapoco_, or _Guiana_, properly so call’d.] _Wiapoco_, or _Guiana_, properly so call’d, taketh up the middle part of this Province, being divided, as the other, almost into two equal parts, by the River _Wiapoco_, which runs through the midst of it. The Countrey on both sides of the River is very rich and fertile, and so naturally apt, both for Sugar-Canes, Cotton-Wooll, and Tobacco, that they are said to grow here (all of them very good) without Planting, or any art of Husbandry. In this Countrey likewise should be the famous _Dorada_, as the _Spaniards_ call it, or _City of Gold_ (if it could be found) with the reports and hopes whereof some of our own Nation seem to have been not a little possess’d as well as the _Spaniards_: nor can we much blame them; for if the Stories of it had prov’d true, it must have been one of the goodliest and fairest Cities in the World (not to speak of the Wealth.) _Diego de Ordas_, the _Spaniard_ of whom we have lately had occasion to make frequent mention of, being reported by some to have travell’d one whole day, and half another in it, before he could arrive at the King’s Palace; which yet must be suppos’d to have stood but in the midst of the City. Places of less Magnificence, but more Certainty, are 1. _Caripo_, which was once a Colony of _English_, setled there by Captain _Robert Harcourt_, Anno 1608. upon the Banks of _Wiapoco_, and not far from the Mouth of it; being a place, by the advantage of a Rock, which it hath on the one side of it, of great strength and very difficult access; the Air about it sound, and said to be very agreeable to _English_ Bodies. 2. _Gomaribo_, a Colony formerly of the _Dutch_, on the North-West side of the Bay of _Wiapoco_, but since deserted by them. 3. _Woyemon._ 4. _Crewinay_, both of them Towns of the Natives, not far distant from the other. [Sidenote: _Orinoque._] _Orinoque_, or the third Division of this Province, comprehendeth the most Northerly parts of _Guiana_, lying upon, or towards the Banks of this famous River: a Countrey likewise reported to be very rich, and comparable to _Peru_ it self for hidden Treasure, which, they say, is not yet discover’d, onely for want of diligent and industrious searching. The Places in it already known are onely 1. _Coniolaba_, as they call it, which seems to be some Town of the Natives, lying a few Leagues distant from the _Orinoque_, towards the South. 2. _Morequito_, a known Port or Haven-Town upon a Branch of the _Orinoque_, much frequented, and of great use to the _English_ when they discover’d these Coasts. 3. _Wenicapora_: and 4. _St Thomas_, the onely Town which the _Spaniards_ hold upon this part of the Continent, situate upon the principal Channel of the _Orinoque_, and consisting of two hundred Families, or thereabouts: It is now a fortifi’d Place, and was taken by Sir _Walter Raleigh_, in that unfortunate Action of 1617. above related more at large. [Sidenote: Islands belonging to _Guiana_.] The Islands that belong to, and are commonly reckon’d as parts of _Guiana_, are either such as lie scatter’d about the Shore of the Province, or such as are found at the Mouth, and sometime far within the Channel of those great Rivers, which empty themselves at several parts of this Countrey into the Sea, _viz._ _Orinoque_, _Wiapoco_, _Rio de las Amazones_, &c. There are many of them, but of any great name or esteem, onely two, _viz._ _Trinidado_ and _Tabago_, the Description whereof we shall here omit, as having already taken notice of them amongst the _Sotaventi_ and _Caribbee_ Islands. [Illustration] CHAP. IX. Paria, or New Andalusia. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Nova Andalusia_.] VVestward of _Guiana_ lieth the Countrey of _Paria_, so call’d from its chief River: It hath also the Denomination of _New Andalusia_, but for what resemblance with _Andalusia_ of _Old Spain_, they do not tell us. This Countrey lying as it doth, brings us back again by the Eastern Coast to the _Isthmus_ or _Strait_, which, as we have often said, joyns the two parts of the Continent of _America_ together, at least to those Countreys that lie next upon it to the South, _viz._ the Kingdom of _Granada_, &c. It hath on the East _Guiana_, and those Islands which lie about the Mouth of _Orinoque_; on the West, the Gulf or Bay of _Venezuela_, with some part of the new Kingdom abovesaid; on the North it is wash’d with the _Atlantick_ Ocean; and on the South hath some Countreys yet undiscover’d, toward the _Andes_. The whole consisteth partly of Continent, and partly of Islands near adjoyning to it, and is commonly divided into five several Precincts or Parts, which are 1. _Cumana._ 2: _Venezuela_, being upon the Continent, 3. _Margareta._ 4. _Cubagua_, two Islands above-mention’d, famous for Pearl-fishing; and lastly, some lesser islands. SECT. II. Cumana. [Sidenote: Bounds and Description of _Cumana_.] _Cumana_ is bounded Eastward with the Gulf of _Paria_ and the River _Orinoque_; on the West, with _Venezuela_; Northward it hath the _Atlantick_; and on the South, those undiscover’d Countreys above mention’d; extending along the Northern Ocean, over against _Margareta_ two hundred Leagues or more, as some say, in length, and not much less than a hundred in breadth. The Coast of this Countrey, as well as of the Islands _Margareta_ and _Cabagua_, hath formerly been much fam’d for the rich Trade of Pearls and Pearl-fishing; which failing, its principal esteem now is for an excellent Vein of Salt, which they dig here as out of a Mine, and gather it naturally made ready to their Hands, not half a Mile from the Sea side, on the back side of the Promontory or Cape, by some call’d _Punto de Araya_, and by others for this reason _Cape de Salinas_. [Sidenote: Towns and Places of note.] Places of chiefest consideration here, are 1. _Cumana_ it self, a Colony of _Spaniards_ seated on the Banks of a little River two Miles distant from the Sea, where it hath a good Harbor. 2. _St. Jago_, a very strong Fortress, which the _Spaniards_ of late years have built, for the defence and security of the Salt-works against the _Dutch_, who began to Trade much that way, and in the Year 1622. had a Design to have made themselves Masters of the Place. 3. _St. Michael de Neveri_, another Fortress of theirs, standing upon a River bearing the same Name. 4. _Guaniba_, a Town of the Natives. This Countrey of _Cumana_, being generally infested with terrible Crocodiles, hath a large Inlet call’d _Cariaco_, which flows fourteen Leagues into the Countrey. [Sidenote: Manners and Customs of the People.] The Men of this Countrey wear Cotton Cloaks, and anointing their Bodies with Gum, stick the same full of Feathers. When they go to Wars, or to a general Feast, then they shave their Hair off above their Ears, pull out their Beards, and black their Teeth with a certain Herb. Their Princes and Grandees take as many Wives as they please, and give to those of their Guests whom they intend most to oblige, their choice of the fairest of them to lie with. Whoring is accounted no shame, except amongst Marry’d Women, who generally live very Chaste, unless their Husbands consent to their Adultery. The Women also Hunt, Fish, Shoot, and Swim, and are diligent in Tilling their Lands, and other Houshold Affairs. Most of them have sore Eyes, occasion’d not so much (as some wrongfully suppose) by their drinking of the Water out of the Stream _Cumana_, but proceeding rather from their unwholsom Food, as Spiders, and the like. Amongst the several sorts of Trees that grow here, there are some that yield a white well scented Gum, or delicious Juice like Milk, and produce a Fruit not unlike a Mulberry, which may be boyl’d to an excellent Syrrup; the Wood also strikes Fire: There are others, whose Timber is good for Shipping. The Soil also produces _Cassia-Fistula_, Roses, and other strong smelling Flowers and Herbs. [Sidenote: Beasts.] For Beasts, besides Lyons, Tygers, and wild Hogs, there are several strange kinds here, as the _Cappa_, which is bigger than an Ass, having shaggy and black Hair; it runs away from Mankind, but devours whatsoever else it meets with. The _Aranata_, which hath a Goats Beard, and is of the bigness of a Greyhound; it howls very dreadfully, and feeds on Fruits. The wild Cats which breed here, leap, though great with Young, from one Tree to another. In the Evening a Beast like a lean Dog comes to their Huts, cries like a Child, and devours all those it meets abroad; wherefore every one that goes out in the Night carries a lighted Stick with him, for this Beast dreads the sight of Fire. The Trees give Harbor to great numbers of Parrots, and other fine Feather’d Birds. The Bats here are very large and hurtful, sucking the Blood from Men and Beasts. The _Muschito_’s also do very much plague and vex the Inhabitants. The Spiders, much bigger than those of _Europe_, and of divers colours, make very strong Cobwebs. Along the Sea-Coast, and in the Rivers is plenty of delicious Fish. [Sidenote: _Dominicans_ put to death by the Natives.] [Sidenote: _Alonzo de Ojeda_ slain by _Gonzales_.] _Anno 1513._ two _Dominican_ Fryers went over from _Terra Fiona_ to _Cumana_, where the Natives kindly Entertain’d them, till a _Spanish_ Ship Anchoring there for the Pearl-Trade, carry’d away by violence the Governor and seventeen of his Servants; whereupon the Natives threatned, that unless their Lord was restor’d, they would put the two _Dominicans_ to death; the _Spaniards_ promising restauration of him in four Moneths time, inform’d the Council at _Hispaniola_ of it, who not consenting to his Releasement, the two Monks were, according the former threatning, presently put to death. Yet after this the _Franciscans_ and _Dominicans_ built each of them a Cloyster in the Province of _Chiribichi_, where they kept friendly Correspondence with the _Cumana_’s, till _Anno 1520._ when _Alonso de Ojeda_ coming to an Anchor before _Maracapana_, under pretence of bartering _Maiz_ for _Spanish_ Goods with the _Tagarez_, who came about fifty from the Mountains on which they liv’d, being three Leagues up in the Countrey, and brought _Maiz_ down to the Shore, the _Spaniards_ took thirty six of them Prisoners, and kill’d or wounded the rest: Whereupon the Governor _Gonzales_ being complain’d unto by the neighboring Prince _Maraguey_, and his assistance desir’d in taking Revenge of the _Dominicans_ and _Franciscans_, who had urg’d and perswaded _Ojeda_ to the fore-mention’d Act, _Gonzales_ hereupon made an Agreement with _Maraguey_, that he should destroy the Monks, whilest he himself would kill _Ojeda_, which they accordingly perform’d. The Council in _St. Domingo_ inform’d hereof, immediately sent three Ships, Mann’d with three hundred Men, under the Command of _Gonzalvo de Ocampo_, who Anchoring in the Haven of _Maracapana_, feign’d as if he came newly from _Spain_, and that he knew nothing of the Business between _Ojeda_ and _Gonzales_, that so he might entice the Natives into his Ship, and accordingly when divers of them came aboard, the Armed _Spaniards_ started from under the Decks, and hung them up at their Yard-arms, burnt the Village _Maracapana_, and ruin’d the Countrey far and near with Fire and Sword. [Sidenote: _Soto_ with all his Men destroy’d by the _Indians_.] _Ocampo_ also built the Town _Toledo_, about half a League farther into the Countrey, where the Bishop _Bartholomew de las Casas_, making his Visitation, commanded _Ocampo_ to forbear his cruelty against the Natives, he having daily either burnt, hang’d, beheaded, or made Slaves of some or other of them. _Casas_ also caus’d a little Fort to be built at the Mouth of the River _Cumana_, to be near to prevent the inhumane Murders and Oppressions committed by his Countrey-men; but because the Inhabitants of _Cubagua_ bereav’d him of his chief Builder, his Fort was left half unfinish’d; wherefore _Casas_ leaving the Command of this Countrey to _Francisco de Soto_, went back to _Hispaniola_, where in _St. Domingo_ he made his Complaints to the High Court of Justice of the _Spaniards_ Cruelties; but being little regarded, he went into the _Dominicans_ Cloyster, till he was call’d out and made Bishop of _Chiapa_. Mean while _Soto_, contrary to _Casas_ his order, had fitted out two Ships to Trade along the Coast of _Paria_; but the Expedition prov’d very unsuccessful, for he and all his Men were destroy’d by the Natives; not without just reason, for the _Spaniards_ (according to the Relation of _Casas_ from an Eye-witness) destroy’d this Countrey after such a manner, that a Ship Sail’d between _Lucago_ and _Hispaniola_ sixty Leagues without any Compass, finding the Way onely by the floating of dead Bodies, thrown out of the _Spanish_ Ships. Moreover, the Prisoners fainting, were set ashore on _Hispaniola_, and divided into Companies, each Company consisting of twenty; Parents separated from their Children, and Husbands from their Wives, and Lots cast for them: those that had either sick, decrepid, or old People fall to their share, us’d to cry (as _Casas_ testifies he hath often heard,) _What do I do with this sick, decrepid old Dog? give him to the Devil; I will not put my self to the trouble to kill and bury him._ But _Soto_’s Death was not left unreveng’d; for not long after _Jacob Castellon_ setting Sail from _St. Domingo_, left several Companies on _Cubagua_, to re-build the Town _Cadiz_, and rais’d a Fort at the Mouth of _Cumana_, which hath ever since been kept by the _Spaniards_, who made great slaughter amongst the Natives. [Sidenote: _Hieronymo Ortall_ deserted by his Men.] _Hieronymo Ortall_ Sailing up the Stream _Negeri_, sent his Lieutenant _Augustine Delgado_ through the populous Provinces _Guacharuco_ and _Parimatuotu_ to the River _Unare_, where, not without a sharp Conflict, he took abundance of Provisions in a Village. In the mean time _Ortall_ travell’d to _Meta_, acting inhumane Cruelties all the way; but approaching _Guiana_ (where _Delgado_ was kill’d) he was deserted by his mutinous Men, who ran over to _Nicholas Federman_; so that he was forc’d to return back to the new Fort _Miguel de Neveri_, and from thence to _St. Domingo_ with ten Soldiers, fearing that _Antonio Sedenno_ (who judg’d himself wrong’d by _Ortall_, because _Cumana_ belong’d to his Lordship) would fall upon him. _Sedenno_ being five hundred Men strong discover’d the Sea-Coast all along to _Patigutaro_; where Setling himself, he regarded no Discipline; which the Natives observing, kill’d many a _Spaniard_, and others the Tygers also devour’d, especially in the Night, they being forc’d to keep lighted Fires about them against the wild Beasts. [Sidenote: The Death of _Sedenno_ and _Juan Fernandez_.] About the beginning of the Year 1537. _Sedenno_ travell’d to the Countrey _Anapuya_ and _Orocomay_, to the Province _Goioguaney_, where the Inhabitants defended themselves very valiantly in a woodden Fort, before which many _Spaniards_ were kill’d with poyson’d Arrows, and those who were not mortally wounded, had no way to escape but by burning the Poyson out with hot Irons; yet at last the Defendants were forc’d to flie with their Wives and Children up to the Mountains, overgrown with Brambles. _Sedenno_ marching through barren Fields, and over troublesom Rivers, came to the mountainous Countrey _Catapararo_, where he found abundance of _Maiz_, and some little pieces of Gold, and was advanc’d about a League and a half in _Cumana_, when dying, he made room for his Successor _Juan Fernandez_, who surviv’d him not long; yet the Expedition was not left unprosecuted: for _Sedenno_’s Men, after the Decease of him and _Fernandez_, went farther, and discover’d a low Land, which in the Winter being overflow’d, forc’d the Inhabitants to remove to the Mountains: But at last the _Spaniards_, being weary with travelling, fell out amongst themselves, and dividing into several Parties, went several ways, some to _Venezuela_, others to _Maracapana_, and the rest to _Cubagua_. SECT. III. Venezuela. [Sidenote: Situation and Description of _Venezuela_.] [Sidenote: Towns and principal Places of _Venezuela_.] The principal part of the Province of _Venezuela_ is border’d on the East with _Cumana_; on the West, with a great Gulf or Bay, call’d _The Bay of Venezuela_, with the Lake _Maracabo_, and some part of _New Granada_; Northward it hath the Ocean, or _Atlantick_ Sea; Southward, some undiscover’d Countreys, which, as we said, lie betwixt the _Andes_ and it. It stretches out in length from East to West, a hundred and thirty Leagues, or thereabouts, but in breadth little more than half so much; it was nam’d _Venezuela_, or _Little Venice_, by _Alonso de Ojeda_, a _Spaniard_, who at his first discovery of the Countrey fell upon a Town of the Natives, which stood like another _Venice_, all upon the Water, and having no passage to it but by Boats. It is a Countrey extraordinary rich in all sorts of Commodities, affords good Pasture for Cattel, and abundance of fair Herds of them, Oxen, Sheep, Swine, _&c._ plenty of Corn, and other Grain, great store of Venison in the Woods, of Fish in the Rivers, Gold in the Mines, and therefore not likely but to be well peopled and inhabited, especially by the _Spaniards_, whose Towns and Places of chief importance are these, 1. _Venezuela_, at the most Westerly Confines of the Countrey, built upon the Sea, with the advantage of a double Haven, in a temperate and good Air, and the Soil round about it the best in the whole Province: It is now a Bishop’s See, who is Suffragan to the Arch-bishop in _Hispaniola_, and the ordinary Residence of the Governor. 2. _Caravalleda_, call’d by the _Spaniards_, _Nuestra Sennora de Caravalleda_, fourscore Leagues distant from _Venezuela_ towards the East, upon the Sea. 3. _St. Jago de Leon_, in the Countrey of _Caracas_, four or five Leagues Southward of _Caravalleda_, and six or seven distant from the Sea. 4. _New Valentia_, twenty five Leagues distant from _St. Jago_. 5. _New Xeres_, a Town but lately built, fifteen Leagues Southward of _New Valentia_. 6. _New Segovia_, but one League distant from _Xeres_. 7. _Tucuyo_, a Place well known and frequented, for the abundance of Sugar that is made there, and in the Countrey round about it. 8. _Truxillo_, or _Our Lady de la Paz_, eighteen Leagues Southward of the Lake _Maracabo_, a Place of great resort, and much frequented for Trade both by _Spaniards_ and Natives. 9. _Laguna_, a Town lying more towards the bottom of the Lake, said to be much haunted with Tygers; and more than this, not much is said of it. According to the ancient Division of the Natives, this Province contains the Countreys _Curiana_, _Cuycas_, _Caracas_, _Bariquicemeto_, _Tucuyo_, and _Carora_; in which there are estimated to be about a hundred thousand Inhabitants that pay Taxes; which Charge, according to a Law made at the _Spanish_ Court, all Men above fifty, and Youth under eighteen, are freed from: yet this Countrey had formerly much more People, great numbers of them being destroy’d by the _Germans_, Anno 1529. for the Bishop _Bartholomeus de las Casas_ relates, That above fifty hundred thousand of the Inhabitants were kill’d by them; nay, they rooted out whole Countreys, notwithstanding the Natives were ready to Entertain them with all Civility imaginable; the Particulars of the Story are as followeth: [Illustration: VENEZUELA cum parte Australi NOVÆ ANDALUSIÆ] [Sidenote: The Expedition of _Alfinger_ and _Sayltar_ to _Venezuela_.] [Sidenote: _Alfinger_’s horrid Cruelties upon the Natives.] When the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth Marry’d with _Isabella_, Daughter to the King of _Portugal_, Anno 1526. the _Welsares_, being _Dutch_ Gentlemen in _Augsburgh_, made an Agreement with him for a Sum of Money, to Conquer _Venezuela_; whither they sent _Ambrosius Alfinger_, and _Bartholomeus Sayltar_, with four hundred Foot and eighty Horse: These Forces Landing at _Venezuela_, drove away _Juan de Ampues_, who Sailing from _St. Domingo_ thither, had discover’d the Coast along _Coriano_, and already made an Agreement with a mighty Prince of that Countrey, call’d _Manaure_. But _Alfinger_ marching to the Lake _Maracabo_, destroy’d all the Inhabitants of the Countrey _Axaguas_, though they came to meet him Dancing, with rich Presents of Gold; which he not regarding, kill’d them, drove some into a House, and there cut them in pieces, and burnt those that were got upon the Roof. From hence going towards the _Pocabuyes_, who dwelt on the West side of _Maracabo_, amongst high Mountains, he was Entertain’d by them a considerable time very courteously, and Presented with rich Gifts, for which at his departure he shut up both Men, Women, and Children, into a high Wall’d Park, where they were all to perish, if they did not every one pay a certain quantity of Gold to be releas’d, which not being able to raise, they all dy’d for want of Food. After the same manner he dealt with the neighboring People _Alcoholados_, of whom he got much Gold, but not without unheard of Cruelties, for he burnt all their Villages and Houses, ruin’d the Countrey with Fire and Sword from _Thamaleque_ to the River _Lebrixa_, carry’d away many of the Natives coupled together with Chains about their Necks, and each of them loaded with at least a hundred pound weight of pillag’d Goods; and as soon as any of them began to faint under their Burthens for want of refreshment, their Heads were immediately cut off. But _Alfinger_ coming to certain cold Mountains, was resisted by a valiant People; in which Conflict he receiv’d a Wound, of which he dy’d at his return to _Coro_, Anno 1532. Upon which the _Welsares_ sent _John Aleman_ to succeed him; but he also dying, made place for _George de Espoira_, and _Nicholas Federman_, of which two _Espoira_ being the chief, spent three years in ranging up and down the Countrey, without any remarkable Transactions, being continually at variance with his Lieutenant _Federman_. The afore-mention’d City _Venezuela_, otherwise call’d _Caro_, and by the Natives _Corana_, was, _Anno 1559._ taken and burnt by the _English_. [Sidenote: The Provinces _Paragoana_ and _Bariquicemeto_.] Northward from the City, the Promontory _St. Roman_, in the Province of _Paragoana_, runs into the Sea, opposite to the Islands _Aruba_ and _Quuracao_. The Countrey _Paragoana_ is low and full of Venison; out of the middle of it rises a high Mountain, the Inhabitants whereof are very hospitable and courteous. The Lyons that breed in this Countrey run away from Men; but on the contrary, the Tygers are exceeding cruel. From _Coro_ there leads a Way up into the Countrey over the Mountain _Xizaezaras_, to the Province _Bariquicemeto_. Between both these Provinces very fruitful Valleys, which produce _Maiz_ in great abundance, are surrounded by wooddy Mountains, inhabited by Man-eaters, call’d _Axaguas_. [Sidenote: _Segovia_ built by _Juan de Villegas_.] _Anno 1552._ _Juan de Villegas_ discovering the Province _Tucuyo_, he found several rich Gold-Mines near the Mountain _Pedro_, out of which springs the River _Burio_. Near this place he built the Town _Segovia_, which, by reason of the unwholsom Air, was soon after transplanted, and built on the Shore of the River _Bariquicemeto_, so call’d, because the Water when touch’d, turns to an Ash-colour. The Plain Countrey round about would be intolerable hot, did not the cool Winds that blow from the Mountains temper the same. [Sidenote: The Natives of the Province _Bariquicemeto_, their manner of living.] The Natives divided into Tribes that understand not one another, live on _Callibashes_, Deers-flesh, Rabbets, and the Juice of the _Cocuy_. In the Rivers _Hacarigua_ and _Boraute_, they throw the stamp’d Root _Barbasco_, which causes the Fish to appear above the Water, and suffer themselves to be caught with the Hand. In the Summer they all store themselves with Venison, which they catch after this manner: They set the dry Bushes and Brambles on fire, which makes the wild Hogs, Goats, Deer, _Armadillo_’s, Tygers, the great Serpents _Bobas_, and other wild Creatures, to leap forth from their Holes and Receptacles to shun the same, whilest the Hunters standing ready with their Bowes and Arrows, seldom miss one of them. In the hollow Trees near the Rivers, the Bees make abundance of Honey for them. Most of the Rivers here fall into the Stream _Huriapari_, which glides from the _Peruvian_ Mountains to the Northern Ocean. The Province _Chioas_ produces plenty of Gold. [Sidenote: Also of the Natives about _Segovia_.] The Natives about _Segovia_ go naked, are very ignorant, and much addicted to Drunkenness; in which humor they kill one another: They live without care, feeding on Roots till their _Maiz_ is ripe, which in some places comes to its full maturity in forty days time, and in others in three Moneths. Close by _Segovia_ glides the Rivulet _Claro_, whose clear Water goes but a small Course from its Fountain Head, before it sinks into the Ground; in the Summer it is very high, and in the Winter almost destitute of Water. [Sidenote: The Commodities of the Countrey hereabouts.] This Countrey breeds all sorts of Fowls, but especially Quails and Turtle-Doves. Cattel, Sheep, Goats and Hogs, increase wonderfully here, insomuch that many of them are driven to be sold at _New Granada_. The Cotton-Clothes that are woven here, also turn to a good account. From _Segovia_ runs a Way through a Valley twelve Leagues long, to the Town _Tucuyo_, which stands low, but in a healthful Climate, and surrounded with Mountains. The Countrey hereabouts produces plenty of Corn, Pot-herbs, Sugar, and Cotton; and feeds Oxen, Cowes, Horses, Sheep, Deer, and Goats, to which the Tygers and Lyons do great mischief. Here are Gold-Mines, but they are not open’d by reason of the great want of Men. There is likewise plenty of the _Bezoar_-Stones to be had here. The Cuycas, in whose Countrey stands the Town _Truxillo_, are a valiant, but very cruel People. The Lake _Maracabo_, running forty Leagues up into the Countrey, is ten Leagues broad, Ebbs and Flows, and feeds the great Fish _Manati_. Westward dwell the _Pocabuyes_, and _Alcoholados_, both quiet and rich People. [Sidenote: The Province _Xuruara_.] The Province _Xuruara_ lies towards the South behind high Mountains, inhabited by the valiant _Coromochos_; and towards the North from _Xuruara_, the _Bobures_, hard by the City _Merida_; the Countrey about which is unhealthful and Morassy, and the Inhabitants exceedingly plagu’d by the _Muschito_’s. [Sidenote: Havens of _Venezuela_.] The Haven _Maracapana_ is the best in _Venezuela_, and lies in the Eastern part of the Province, where the Mountains are inhabited by the wild _Chiugotos_, who kill and eat all the _Spaniards_ they can get. The other Havens Westward, not comparable to _Maracapana_, are _Flechado_, _Sardinas_, and _Burburute_, where some _Spanish_ Families have a Salt-pit. [Sidenote: Islands and Promontories.] Six Leagues up in the Countrey you come to the fresh Lake _Tocarigua_, full of little inhabited Isles; the People whereof live quietly, and barter Gold. Towards the North-West the Ocean makes the great Inlet _Triste_, before which lies the Island _Bonaire_, very full of Cattel, and on each side appear the _Aves_ and _Quaraco_, which abound with Fowl. The Promontory _St. Roman_ runs twenty Leagues into the Sea, and the Cape _Coquibocoa_ extends farther. Between both these runs the Channel of _Venezuela_, which touches the Lake _Maracapabo_. Before _Coquibocoa_ are seen the four low Islands _Monjes_, with white sandy Creeks, and full of Trees: out of the middlemost rises a high Mountain. On the Main Continent also the Mountains _De Azieyto_ appear with scraggy tops beyond the Point: And the Bay _Honda_ affords a safe Road. The Cape _De la Vela_ hath on one side the Inlet _Portete_, and on the other, the Villages _Rancheria_ and _Nostra Sennora de los Remedios_; between both which runs the Stream _La Hacha_. The _German_ Commander, _Nicholas Federman_, intended to have built a City on _Cape Vela_, Anno 1535. but finding the Ground too low and unfruitful, the Pearls hereabouts very small, and the Natives living onely on Fish and wild Herbs, he chang’d his Resolution. SECT. IV. The Islands Margareta, Cubagua, and Coche. Notwithstanding we have already spoken something of the Islands _Margareta_, and _Cubagua_, in regard they are by some reckon’d amongst the Isles of _Northern America_; yet because they are by many accounted to make up a part of the Division of _New Andalusia_, we shall add in this place what we have found most worthy of Re-mention, though much to the same purpose as before. The Island _Margareta_, discover’d by _Christopher Columbus_, Anno 1498. contains thirty two Leagues in circumference, hath many Woods and Pastures, yet little fresh Water. To the Eastward of it lie the Cliffs _Testigos_, where it is very mountainous, as also on the East. Round about the same are delicious Fish, without which the Natives could not live, because the brackish Soil produces but little Provision. [Sidenote: The Pearl-Fishing of _Margareta_.] The chiefest thing for which this Island _Margareta_ is famous, is the Pearl-Fishing, for which in times past a great Trade was driven, though of late it is come to little or nothing. The _Spaniards_, with inhumane cruelty, taught the _Negro_’s to Dive for the Pearls, for those that were not nimble or dextrous enough, they beat unmercifully, dropt scalding Wax or scalding Oyl upon them, or stigmatiz’d them with hot Irons. The Pearl-Banks were cover’d with five, six, seven, or eight Fathom Water; from whence the _Negro_’s pull’d the Oysters with such force, that the Blood gush’d out of their Mouths and Noses when they came above Water to breath; after which, to refresh them, they receiv’d a Glass of Wine and a Pipe of Tobacco. The _Spanish Kiay_ receiv’d a fifth part of the best Pearls that were taken here; but whether the Oysters have forsaken this Place, or their growth hinder’d by often Fishing for them, we know not, but however it is, few Pearls are found here of late years, which makes _Margareta_ to be more and more deserted. [Sidenote: The Nature of the Island of _Cubagua_.] Between the Main Continent of _Paria_ lie the Islands _Cubagua_ and _Coche_; the first whereof hath an unfruitful and sultry Soil, without either Trees, Birds, and four-footed Beasts, except _Pock_-Wood, Sea-Fowls, or Parrots; and _Castilian_ Hogs being carry’d thither, change their Nature strangely; for in a short time their Claws grow long and crooked. [Sidenote: The City _Nova Cadiz_ built there, but at length totally deserted.] The King of _Spain_ us’d formerly to receive fifteen thousand _Ducats_ yearly for his fifth part of the Pearls that were taken; which Gain invited many thither, who built the Town _Nova Cadiz_ on _Cubagua_ in the Year 1521. but when the _Arayans_ demolish’d the Monks Cloyster on _Paria_, the _Spaniards_, being three hundred in number, fled from _Nova Cadiz_ to _Hispaniola_, where the High Court, displeas’d at their cowardly deserting the Place, gave them but cool Entertainment, and sent five Ships under the Command of _Jacomo de Castellan_ to _Cubagua_, to build new Store-houses in _Nova Cadiz_, which was afterwards re-inhabited; but when the Pearl-Fishing ceased, the Island and Town was at once deserted. Opposite to _Margareta_ lies the Promontory _Araya_, behind which lies a salt Lake, in which is found abundance of Salt, not onely above, but under the Water; with which the _English_, _Spanish_, and _Dutch_ Ships are fraighted. [Sidenote: _Du Verne_’s Description of the Salt-pans on _Araya_.] _Isaac du Verne_ describes the Salt-pans on _Araya_ thus: “Round about the same (saith he) the Ground is craggy, barren, and of a brackish taste, and destitute of fresh Water, which is therefore fetch’d three Leagues farther out of a Brook, flowing from the Mountain _Bordones_ into the Bay of _Comena_; likewise all manner of Provisions are brought from other Parts. Westward from the Point _Araya_ there is a convenient Harbor where the Ships take in their Salt. Three hundred Paces from the Shore lies a great Salt-pan, where the Salt being first beat in pieces, is carry’d in Wheel-barrows to the Ships. The little Salt-pan produces less Salt, and lies also out of the way, which makes few Ships take in their Lading from thence.” The Countrey is every where overgrown with Brambles and Bushes, in which breed Tygers and very poysonous Serpents. There are likewise abundance of Stags, Bucks, Hares, and Coneys, besides other strange Beasts. [Sidenote: The _Netherlanders_ beaten out of their Salt-Trade here by the _Spaniards_.] Till _Anno 1605._ the _Netherlanders_ came hither unmolested for Salt, when eight _Spanish_ Gallions falling unawares upon them, strangely misus’d their Seamen; but afterwards the _United Netherlands_ having made an Agreement with _Spain_ for a certain time, renew’d their Trade to _Araya_, till the King of _Spain_, having for the better security of the Place, built the Fort _St. Jago_, which Commanded the great Salt-pan, forbad the _Netherlanders_ from lading any more Salt; who thereupon Storm’d the Fort, though to their cost, for several of them were kill’d, and the rest return’d home empty. SECT. V. Of the Islands of Southern America. The chiefest islands of note in the Southern part of _America_, that is to say, those that lie remote from the Continent in _Mare del Zur_, are _Los Ladrones_, and the Islands _Fernandinas_; for the rest being, as we may call them, _Mediterranean Islands_, fall naturally under the Description of the Continent. [Sidenote: The Isles _Los Ladrones_.] 1. _Los Ladrones_, in English, _The Islands of Thieves_, lie as it were in the mid-way betwixt the Main Land of _America_ and the _Philippine_ Islands, but some hundreds of Leagues distant from either, in the fourth Degree of Northern Latitude; so nam’d by _Ferdinand Magellan_, from the pilfering disposition he observ’d in the Natives, when he Sail’d that way for the _Moluccæ_ Islands. They were a nimble and active sort of People, yet light-finger’d, tall of stature, and going for the most part naked, excellent Swimmers and Divers, and have not much more to be said in their commendation. [Sidenote: The Isles _Fernandinæ_.] 2. The _Fernandinæ_ are onely two Islands of no great bigness, lying over against the Coast of _Chile_, in the three and thirtieth Degree of Southern Latitude, and about a hundred Leagues, or three hundred _English_ Miles from the Continent, yet well stor’d with some lesser sorts of Cattel, as Goats, _&c._ good plenty likewise of Venison in the Woods, and Fish upon the Coasts; for which reason, though lying at some distance, yet are they not a little frequented by the _Spaniards_ of _Peru_, who find many good Harbors and Roads for Shipping belonging to, and about these Islands. [Illustration] [Illustration] An Appendix, CONTAINING Partly a farther prosecution of the Descriptions of some Provinces already treated of in the foregoing Book, partly an Account of some other Discoveries than what have hitherto been deliver’d in any Description of the _NEW WORLD_. CHAP. I. Rio de la Plata. The River _De la Plata_, by the Natives call’d _Paranaguazu_, is next to the River of the _Amazones_, the greatest in the World, and falls into the Northern Ocean between the Capes _Antonio_ and _Maria_, lying thirty Leagues one from another: It receives from East and West divers Rivers as far as the Lake _Xarays_, lying three hundred Leagues up in the Countrey from the Mouth of _La Plata_. Also into the fore-mention’d Lake fall several Streams, which spring out of the _Peruvian_ Mountains _Andes_. The first that Sail’d into this great River, _Anno 1515._ to an Island lying in the middle of it, was _John Dias de Solis_, who rashly going ashore, was kill’d and eaten, together with several _Portugueses_. [Sidenote: _Sebastian Gabottus_ his Expedition.] Eleven years after this Accident, _Sebastian Gabottus_ set Sail from _Spain_ to go to the Spicy Islands through the Straights of _Magellan_, but was forc’d, for want of Provisions, and the unwillingness of his Seamen, to put into the River _La Plata_; in which being advanc’d thirty Leagues, he Anchor’d near an Island, which he call’d _St. Gabriel_: from whence going seven farther, he discover’d a Stream which fell into _La Plata_. This River he call’d _St. Salvador_, and cast up a Fort at the Mouth of it, where an Inlet afforded a convenient Harbor for Shipping; he found the River _La Plata_ to be generally ten Leagues broad, and full of Isles; and to the Westward of it, the River _Zaracaranna_, inhabited on the South side by a subtil People call’d _Diagnitas_. At the place where _Zaracaranna_ disembogues into _La Plata_ he built a Castle, and calling the same _Castello di Santo Spirito_, went up farther, leaving on the West side the People _Tenbues_, _Mequaretas_, _Mepenes_, and _Aigais_; to the Eastward, the _Quiloacas_ and _Santana_, and struck up out of the River _La Plata_, North-East into the Stream _Parana_, in which he had gone, two hundred Leagues, and pass’d by many Isles, when he went out of the same into the Stream _Paraguay_; where being set upon by the Countrey People, who were busie in Tilling the Ground, he lost so many of his Men, that he was forc’d, without any farther Exploit, to return with the _Portuguese_ Pilot, _Diego Garcia_, who Sailing up the same River, had met with _Gabottus_ in _Paria_; and because both had gotten some Silver, they call’d the River, from that Metal, _De la Plata_. The farther Discovery whereof lay neglected nine years after, when _Peter Mendoza_ Sailing with eleven Ships, carrying eight hundred Men, to the Island _Gabriel_, built the Fort _Buenos Ayres_, on the South side of it, where many People dying of Hunger, little was done. _Alvares Cabeca_ not long after following _Mendoza_’s footsteps, discover’d and peopled the Province _Rio de la Plata_. The Mouth of the River _La Plata_ _Laurence Bikker_ describes thus: [Sidenote: _Laurence Bikker_’s Description of _Rio de la Plata_.] “Beyond the Cape _Santa Maria_ (saith he) lies the flat Island _Castilhos_, having scarce a Tree upon it; but on the North side a Rock, not unlike a decay’d Castle; to the Southward of which appear two other Cliffs; directly before the Mouth lies the stonie Island _De Lobos_, on which nothing is to be found but Sea-Wolves; towards the East a stonie Bank runs a good way into the River, known by the breaking of the Water upon the same.” The Promontory _Maria_ is low and barren, but within the same the Land rises high before the Isles _Flores_ and _Maldonado_, which last hath a good sandy Shore, Harbor, and fresh Water between the Rocks; but _Flores_ rising with two Hills, produces nothing but Brambles. The Stream _Solis_ also discharges its Waters in _La Plata_, near the Place where the Mountain _Seredo_ lies. The left Shore of _La Plata_ begins at the Promontory _Antonio_, and is cut through by the Rivers _Ortis_ and _Los Sanctos_, where the Town _Buenos Ayres_ is built on a smooth Shore. [Sidenote: _Martin del Barco_’s Description of the same.] _Martin del Barco_ proceeding in the Description of _La Plata_, saith that it is dangerous by reason of the many Shelves that are in the same. The Isles in the River are as followeth: those that bear the Name of _St. Gabriel_ are five in number; _Garcia_ Isle is full of Trees, and for its fertility was peopled by _Peter de Mendoza_, and afterwards by _Juan Ortiz Carate_: But less fruitful are the Isles _De Lazaro_, where the River _Vrayg_ unites with _La Plata_, being before fill’d with the Waters of _Salvador_, which receives the black Stream _Negro_, which gliding slowly from Morasses, is very full of Fish. Moreover, _La Plata_ hath eleven Arms, each very deep and full of Isles, inhabited by the _Guaranins_. About a hundred Leagues farther the _Cherandies_ have setled themselves on pleasant Isles, lying not far from the City _St. Fe_, built on the Point which makes the River _Bermeio_, where it falls into _La Plata_. Farther up lies the Province _Ana_, partly well inhabited for its fertility, and partly overflow’d. Next appears the Rock _Pennapobre_, and not far from the Town _Guayra_, _La Plata_ falls very high from the Rocks. [Sidenote: The several People of this Countrey.] But as concerning the Natives of this Countrey, it is inhabited by divers sorts of People, differing from one another both in Customs and Language. On the South side of the fore-mention’d River, from the Promontory _Antonio_ to _Buenos Ayres_, dwell the _Quirandies_, a stout, but cruel People, who with the Flesh of many a _Spaniard_ oftentimes keep a merry Feast. Farther into the Countrey run the _Juries_ and _Diagnitas_. Along _La Plata_ lie also scatter’d the _Tenbues_, a civil People, who live by Fishing. Near the River _Paraguay_ the _Ameguaes_ observe the same manner of Life; But the _Carioes_ keep Cattel, and Till their Lands. A hundred Leagues farther dwell the _Payaguaes_; and yet farther into the Countrey the _Chames_ and _Carcares_ possess much Gold and Silver, with which _Juan d’ Ayola_ having enrich’d himself here, was destroy’d with all his Men by the _Chames_, Anno 1541. [Sidenote: _Nunnez Cabeca_ his Journey.] _Alvarez Nunnez Cabeca_ came from _Spain_ to be Governor here, but was not able, by reason of contrary Winds and Tydes to reach _La Plata_; wherefore Landing at the River _Itabucu_, and spending nine days in cutting a Way through thick Brambles, he came to the Jurisdiction of _Armiriri_, and a days Journey farther to _Cipoyay_; and not long after to _Tocanguazu_, where the _Guaranies_, who are the Natives, have two Harvests every year of _Maiz_ and _Cassavi_, and breed and keep Geese, Hens and Parrots in their Houses: They are Man-eaters, and very revengeful. _Cabeca_ having given this Countrey the Name of _Vera_, he proceeded on his Journey over the Rivers _Ignazu_, _Tibagi_, and _Taquari_, on whose Shore appears the Village _Abangobi_, and somewhat farther _Tocanguzir_. The Countrey hereabouts is very fruitful, and hath many delightful Plains, pleasant Rivers, and Woods; but beyond appear Hills, Mountains, deep Morasses, dangerous Cane-Fields, Receptacles for wild Beasts, and great Wildernesses. _Cabeca_ having pass’d through them all, came into the fruitful Countrey of the _Guaranies_, who are a wild People, and possess many large Fields of _Maiz_ and _Potato_’s, also several Silver Mines. From hence travelling Westwardly over the River _Piqueri_, he spent eighteen days before he came to the Stream _Ignazu_, which falls into the _Parana_, and at last came to the River _Paraguay_; along whose Shore he found a People of a gigantick Stature, call’d _The Agazes_, who regarded no manner of Husbandry, but went out continually a robbing in their _Canoos_. These People, as _Martin del Barco_ relates, were not long after all destroy’d by the _Spaniards_. Not far from the _Agazes_ dwell the _Guaycurues_, a valiant People; and somewhat farther the _Cacoves_, whose Countrey produces Gold and Silver; and yet farther in the Countrey reside the _Guaxarapos_, who remove yearly to the _Paraguay_ to Fish there when the Water is low; for in the beginning of _January_ the River swells so exceedingly, that the Countrey about it being overflow’d, is cover’d with above six Fathom Water. The _Paraguay_ discharges its Waters into the great Lake _Xarayes_, full of Islands. Amongst other Rivers that spring out of the Mountains _Andes_, the _Ignazu_, along whose Shore the People _Xacoaes_, _Xaquesses_, and _Chanesses_ dwell, falls also into the foremention’d Lake. Somewhat farther lies a great piece of drown’d Land, beyond which the _Xarayes_ have convenient Habitations, plant _Maiz_, and spin Cotton: Their Countrey borders a great Wilderness, which ends about the Province _Tapuaguazu_, the Inhabitants whereof, call’d _Tarapecocies_, are furnish’d with plenty of all sorts of Provisions. The _Payzunoes_, dwelling on one side of them, are not well known as yet. Beyond the Town _Assumption_ dwell the _Mayaes_, in the Way to _Peru_, and border at the _Tamacoaes_, both which possess Silver-Mines. Between _Buenos Ayres_ and _Corduba_ lies the Plain-Countrey _Despoplado_, ninety Leagues long, without Trees or Houses, but is most Pasture-Ground, which feed many thousands of wild Horses. From hence glide the Streams _Luchan_, _Los Arrechivos_, _Arreca_, _Zaracaranna_, and others, into _La Plata_. It is very dangerous for a small Company to travel through this Countrey, because the ranging _Furies_ spare none alive they meet with. Moreover, the River _Grande_ flows with a wide Mouth into the Sea, and spreads it self within against the Countrey _Patos_. Also the Rivers _Tamandabug_, _Ararungo_, and the Lake _Alagoa_, disembogue into the Ocean. North-East beyond _Alagoa_ lie the Islands _Catharina_ and _Gale_; and in the Bay _Tojuqua_ appear several Isles. The Streams _Tajahu_ and _Ytabuca_ spring out of high Mountains, inhabited by the People _Anniriri_ and _Cipopoy_. Lastly, the Countrey wash’d by the Stream _Ararapira_, produces all sorts of Provisions. [Illustration] CHAP. II. Chili. [Sidenote: The _Cammel-Sheep_.] There are in this Countrey both tame and wild Sheep; the tame ones are call’d _Cammel-Sheep_, being cover’d with long fine Wool, having Necks four Foot long, their fore Feet cloven into four parts, their hindermost into two, their Mouths very wide, which they open at those that vex them, and make such a stink, that no body is able to abide near them; when tir’d, they fall under their Burdens, and will not rise, though beaten never no much: Their Flesh is tough like that of Horses. The wild Mountain-Sheep are red, and have soft glossy Wool, which makes a Stuff like that of a Chamlet: These Sheep run swifter than a Horse; the _Chileses_ lead them by a Rope put through their Ears. [Sidenote: The Grain _Teca_.] This Countrey of _Chili_ not onely produces Wheat, Barley, _Maiz_, and all manner of Fruit, but also the _Teca_, which growing half a Yard high, is not unlike Barley; the Grain thereof being dry’d in the Sun, is thresh’d, and parch’d in hot Sand, then ground on a square flat Stone with a round Rowler. This Meal, which is both exceeding wholsom and very nourishing (for a small Measure thereof sufficeth a Man a whole Week,) serves also both for Meat and Drink: for being infus’d in a greater quantity of Water, it becomes a pleasant Drink, and kneaded with a lesser proportion, it is made into Cakes or Loaves. [Sidenote: The Fruit _Unni_.] The Fruit _Unni_, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Murtilla_, is like a little red Grape, and hath a tart taste. The Wine press’d out of this Fruit is clear to the Eye, pleasing to the Palate, and good for the Stomach, never causing any Head-ache: It also makes good Vinegar. But the chiefest Benefit of _Chili_ is the rich Gold-Mines. The Countrey for the most part lies desolate, occasion’d by the continual Wars which the valiant People _Arauco_ maintain’d against the _Spaniards_ after such a manner, that in no place of _America_ they met with such resistance, or sustain’d such Losses. They speak an elegant Language, according to the testimony of _Elias Herkmans_, who having committed to Writing all the most significant Words thereof which were taught him by the _Chileses_, it will not be altogether amiss to set down some of them, which are these following: A View of the Chilesian Language. _Tepanto_, A Year. _Tien_, A Moneth, or the Moon. _Toninco_, A Week. _Ante_, The Day, or Sun. _Paun_, The Night. _Tabuyo_, The Evening. _Eppoun_, The Morning. _Rangiante_, Noon. _Eppoe_, The next Day after to Morrow. _Vya_, Yesterday. _Putey_, The Day before Yesterday. _Buchiante_, To Day. _Mintay_, Now. _Weytiva_, At that time. _Wantarulei_, In the Morning betimes. _Biliante_, Always. _Chumel_, When. _Chemchuem_, Also. _Hueno_, The Heavens. _Quereb_, The Air or Wind. _Tomo_, The Clouds. _Wangelen_, The Stars. _Pillan_, Thunder. _Gualio_, Lightning. _Puta que quereb_, A Storm. _Maoni_, Rain. _Piren_, Snow. _Veaquumao_, Dew. _Pillingei_, Ice. _Quetal_, Fire. _Ko_, Water. _Tue_, The Earth. _Mappo_, The Land. _Pele_, Clay. _Cura_, Stone. _Maviel_, Wood. _Aluven_, Timber. _Millia_, Gold. _Lien_, Silver. _Paila_, Brass. _Titi_, Tin. _Pavillue_, Iron. _Quatal-cura_, A Pebble-stone. _Chadi_, Salt. _Lyl_, A Rock. _Milla-mappen_, A Golden Vein. _Aliquen_, A Tree. _Cahu_, Herbs. _Nebo_, Nuts. _Pino_, Grass. _Cayron_, Hay. _Wento_, A Man. _Domo_, A Wife. _Quiduugen_, A Youth. _Yecho_, A Maiden. _Penien_, A Boy. _Domo-penien_, A Girl. _Chou_, A Father. _Nenque_, A Mother. _Cheche_, A Grandfather. _Domo-cheche_, A Grandmother. _Wenco_, Mothers Brother. _Mama_, Mothers Sister. _Pelchuchan_, A Stepfather. _Caulla_, A Stepmother. _Botum_, A Son. _Neaque_, A Daughter. _Penu_, A Brother. _Lamoen_, A Sister. _Guempo_, A Father-in-law. _Vilca_, A Mother-in-law. _Choupa_, A Son-in-law. _Weuro-pencho_, A Kinsman. _Buytha_, An old Man. _Cude_, An old Woman. _Cunewa_, An Hospital Child. _Peneinboe_, A Guardian. _Apo-curaca_, A Governor. _Curaca_, A Lord. _Apo_, A supream Commander. _Nentoque_, A Ruler. _Ulmen_, A Person of Quality. _Pulmen_, A Gentleman. _Machi_, A Chirurgeon. _Cona_, A Soldier. _Retave-caman_, A Smith. _Guito-wok_, A Weaver. _Challo-acaman_, A Fisher-man. _Nilla-caboe_, A Merchant. _Turnitave_, A Dyer. _Chumpiro-caman_, A Cap-maker. _Tultunca-caman_, A Drummer. _Inchetaniweni_, A Servant. _Voerquin_, A Messenger. _Langamcheboe_, A Murderer. _Chiquiboe_, A Thief. _Illuiboe_, A Beggar. _Alvee_, The Devil. _Ruca_, A House. _Ullin_, A Door. _Chaquana_, A pair of Stairs. _Pylca_, A Wall. _Wana-ruca_, The Roof. _Pithe-ruca_, A Hut. _Colcura_, A Cupboard. _Cawyto_, A Bedstead. _Depotuarica_, A Prison. _Weltelve_, A Gibbet. _Pengal_, A Grave. _Lonquen_, The Sea. _Leva_, The River. _Buta-wampo_, A Ship. _Aliwen_, A Mast. _Mou_, Ropes. _Dolio_, A Canoo. _Wampo_, A Boat. _Vela_, Sails. _Wyta_, An Oar. _Tubquen_, Ashes. _Cuju_, A dead Coal. _Ale_, The Flame. _Aypel_, A burning Coal. _Wietum_, Smoak. _Catila_, a Candle. _Wyno_, A Knife. _Witi_, A Spoon. _Guidi_, A Pot. _Lepoboruwe_, A Tooth-picker. _Pavilla-lonco_, An Helmet. _Waiqui_, A Pike. _Pylqui_, A Dart. _Pulque-tuboi_, A Bowe. _Tultunca_, A Trumpet. _Mecane_, An Iron Club. _Cachal_, An Awl. _Wita_, A Spade. _Juisue_, A Sieve. _Chilca_, A Letter. _Charavilla_, A pair of Breeches. _Icha_, A Woman’s Garment. _Domo-ruida_, A Coat. _Couchon_, A Bag. _Pino-chompiro_, A Straw Cap. _Congi_, Food. _Cobque_, Bread. _Nul-cobque_, The Crumb. _Liquangue_, Light. _Dumingei_, Darkness. _Quemeiquen_, Dainties. _Medda_, Pap. _Core_, Broth. _Ilon_, Flesh. _Cuichalon_, Mutton. _Wara-ilon_, Beef. _Chuchi-ilon_, Pork. _Chuchi-chain_, A Gammon of Bacon. _Chaditues-ilon_, Salt. _Caucan_, Roast-meat. _Avaun_, Boyl’d-meat. _Puytscha_, The Guts. _Curam_, An Egg. _Quecuram_, The Yolk of an Egg. _Lycuram_, The White of an Egg. _Iwyn_, Butter. _Ylu_, Milk. _Puuloo_, Drink, _Vino_, Wine. _Chiche_, Beer. _Cutan_, Pain or Sickness. _Aren-cutan_, A Feaver. _Towongen_, The Head. _Cancocultano_, The Head-ache. _Veno-aren_, Scabs. _Albungien_, A Wound. _Molbuen_, Blood. _Touma_, A blind Man. _Cawinto_, A Meal. _Colchou_, The Small-pox. _Wocubu_, A wild Beast. _Pangy_, A Lyon. _Naguel_, A Tyger. _Cuchy_, A Swine. _Michun_, A Calf. _Dewe_, A Mouse. _Waren_, A Rat. _Twe-dewe_, A Mole. _Tewa_, A Dog. _Pulpeo_, A Fox. _Guetaltuange_, A Hare. _Noquen_, A She-bear. _Lame_, A Sea-Dog. _Lemo-cuchi_, A wild Swine. _Chumam_, A Bear. _Puedo_, A Sea-Goat. _Quelen_, A Tail. _Chiliweki_, A Sheep. _Zuneu_, a Bird. _Lyppe_, A Plume. _Mepoiinem_, A Wing. _Dani-inem_, A Nest. _Achawal_, a Hen. _Alchahawal_, a Cock. _Pylken_, A Duck. _Jeca_, A Raven. _Guereo_, A Magpye. _Cogo_, A Cuckow. _Nullyn_, A Bee. _Pulli_, A Flye. _Vulgumusky_, The King of Bees. _Petar_, A Louse. _Perem_, A Flea. _Piro_, A Worm. _Vilo_, A Serpent. _Bylcum_, A Hedghog. _Ponono_, A Toad. _Challua_, A Fish. _Cawel_, A Dolphin. _Iene_, A Whale. _Vouqui_, A Grigg. _Vilochalva_, An Eel. _Chadituel-chalva_, Salt-fish. _Anquen-chalva_, Dry’d-fish. _Quinpilon_, Oysters. _Chapes_, Mussles. _Coinow_, A Crab. _Quichiquinchio_, a Falcon. _Manco_, A Crane. _Choroi_, A Parrot. _Pilo_, Dead. _Hilca_, A one-ey’d Person. _Topilgen_, To squint. _Topil_, Lame. _Poo_, A Bough. _Kempomamel_, Dry Wood. _Bopemamel_, Wither’d Wood. _Nobue_, An Acorn. _Nido-iwas_, A Vineyard. _Nidu_, A Pole. _Vanguen_, Strawberries. _Couchow_, Black-berries. _Litue_, Toad-stools. _Pilun-proque_, Plantain. _Calicai_, Clover-grass. _Curi_, Stinking Nettles. _Pragyn_, Flowers. _Manen_, Seed. _Methen_, Meal. _Chiquelen_, To gather. _Gueli-vanca_, Coral. _Kispi_, Glass. _Cudi_, A Milstone. _Pel_, Mud or Dirt. _Tassaquido_, A Treasure. _Guengu_, A Marriage-Portion. _Deren-culyn_, A Debt. _Culyn_, A Reward. _Willawyn_, Single-money. _Guyn_, One. _Eppo_, Two. _Quila_, Three. _Meli_, Four. _Quechu_, Five. _Cuyn_, Six. _Regli_, Seven. _Pura_, Eight. _Culla_, Nine. _Maripataco_, A hundred. _Marama_, A thousand. _Guiltui_, A Kernel. _Tapel_, Leaves. _Nil_, The Bark. _Pelli_, The Smell. _Oaliel_, The Body. _Lai-calel_, A dead Corps. _Ven_, Flesh. _Molvin_, Blood. _Boro_, A Leg. _Telqui_, The Skin. _Vel_, The Sinews. _Ven-molvin_, A Vein. _Congo_, The Head. _Tol_, The Forehead. _Lenglen_, The Scull. _Lonco_, The Hair. _Teren-lonco_, Grey. _Lolo_, The Brain. _Angen_, The Face. _Taun_, The Jaws. _Ne_, The Eyes. _Tacune_, The Members. _Denen_, The Eye-brows. _Ju_, The Nose. _Peloju_, The Nostrils. _Merum_, Snot. _Pilum_, The Ears. _Oun_, A Mouth. _Adem_, Sweat. _Quewen_, The Tongue. _Melbue_, The Lips. _Boru_, The Teeth. _Ilga_, The Gums. _Bida-bida_, The Roof of the Mouth. _Cain_, Spittle. _Mewe_, The Throat. _Neen_, The Breath. _Quette_, The Chin. _Paion_, The Beard. _Pel_, The Neck. _Lipan_, The Shoulders. _Puilpa_, An Arm. _Cue_, A Hand. _Mancue_, The Right-hand. _Melecoe_, The Left-hand. _Puley-cue_, The Palm of the Hand. _Changel-cue_, The Fingers. _Buta-changel_, The Thumb. _Wili_, The Nails. _Zevo_, The Breast. _Moju_, The Nipples. _Pue_, The Belly. _Weddo_, The Navel. _Cadi_, The Ribs. _Buri_, The Back. _Anca_, The Sides. _Quichio_, The Buttocks. _Penem_, A Man’s Genital Parts. _Metu_, A Womans. _Chan_, The Thighs. _Lucu_, The Knees. _Metunthoy_, The Knee-Bone. _Hemum_, The Calves. _Kamon_, The Feet. _Pinque_, The Heart. _Mocun_, The Lungs. _Que_, The Maw. _Curique_, The Liver. _Vaca_, The Milt. _Quelche_, The Guts. _Villin_, The Bladder. _Momay_, To Stink. _Pelengsley_, A Spider. _Inche_, I. _Tubei_, He. _Eimi_, You. _Inchen_, We. _Tecengen-eimen_, You People. _Liengen_, Those People. _Emma_, So. _Muh_, No. _Pichumei_, Hard by. _Averlugei_, Far. _Taymen_, Against. _Woecun_, Without. _Compay_, Within. _Pulon_, Below. _Wono_, Above. _Buri_, Behind. _Junengen_, Before. _Quelleb_, Near. _Munai_, Enough. _Alengei_, Too much. _Munalai_, Too little. _Chemibla_, Wherefore. _Venibla_, Therefore. _Vei-mai_, Let it be so. _Wei_, These. _Temunei_, Fair. _Woranei_, Ugly. _Newonei_, Strong. _Leptungei_, Swift. _Chouwo_, Lazie. _Alilonconei_, Very wise. _Wentannei_, Valiant. _Queunei_, Proud. _Culenei_, Rich. _Cunewal_, Poor. _Toucou_, Foolish. _Molgei_, Naked. _Ilungei_, Clothed. _Queten_, Narrow. _Anqueu_, Dry. _Prequin_, Bountiful. _Buta_, Great. _Pichi_, Little. _Montingei_, Fat. _Toutau_, Lean. _Pettun_, Colour’d. _Queli_, Red. _Calbu_, Blue. _Carel_, Green. _Choot_, Yellow. _Curi_, Black. _Lye_, White. _Nilla-caju_, To change. _Illawyn_, Giving. _Tuignei_, To be merry. _Umatum_, Sleeping. _Limen_, To wake out of Sleep. _Bemgne_, To Build. _Playn_, To find. _Vangen-lyn_, To lose. _Necul_, To run. _Amon_, To go. _Utalegen_, To stand. _Jucheleyn_, To lie down. _Tecanen_, To dance. _Padenatum_, To fall. _Utalenen_, To rise. _Avinge_, To sit. _Dimgne_, To speak. _Temelenge_, To be silent. _Puronge_, To Sing. _Pylcunge_, To call. _Quipay_, To come. _Ien_, To eat. _Butum_, To drink. _Mepai_, To go to Stool. _Willam_, To Urine. _Cudepain_, To play. _Locatum_, To scold. _Mecowyn_, To carry. _Chuquin_, To steal. _Guallulueno_, To restore. _Pelteney_, To pay. _Lay_, To die. _Rengalgei_, To be buried. _Quedau capay_, Working. _Intunge millo_, To dig for Gold. _Nilla-teubyn_, To sell. _Nilla-vin_, To buy. _Quimli wi tami piel_, I cannot understand you. _Chu pipaimi_, What do you? _Champaila_, Nothing. _Juei pingeimi_, What is your Name? _Juan pingen_, I am call’d _John_. _Cheo ruaimi_, Whither do you go? _Moppo muruam_, I go into the Countrey. _Cheo tui mi_, From whence came you? _Miro comotoun_, I came from home. _Chumel quipai, tuai mi_, When shall you come? _Chumel pratuai mi_, When shall you go? _Ale prungi tamruca_, Is your Habitation far from hence? _Picherungei_, It is hard by. _Aleprungei_, It is farther. _Inchi quiparum camappumu_, I intend to go into another Countrey. _Chemnibla qui parui cammappumu_, Why will you go into another Countrey? _Merelya tiva mappumu_, Here is no Provision. _Aleibelay twachi tipanto, benebliaale geniep ayn_, The year hath been unfruitful, and therefore we want. _Cheo mappungen tamichau_, In what Province dwells your Father? _Alu ei ei_, The Devil hath fetch’d him away. _At eimi ruaju inchio_, Will you keep him company? _Ailan_, No, I will not. _Bien_, I will. _Chuben quecken neieimi tania_, Have you any thing to give us to eat? _Cancan achawal_, Yes, I have roasted Hens. _Mu wy_, How many? _Munalei enchintavia_, There will be enough for us. _Chuben putuayn_, Where shall we Drink? _Aile Mangunmeinis_, I thank you. _Chuben domo trivo_, What Woman is this? _Inchi tan curi_, It is my Wife. _Ni nave_, My Daughter. _Ni domo_, My Concubine. _Alei teminigei vei domo_, It is a handsomWoman. _Qua pangnei_, Come hither. _Amotunge_, Run away. _Umatuayn_, Let us go to Bed. _Utajuca_, Let us rise. _Wira cuchai compay tan mappumu_, The _Spaniards_ are fall’n into this Countrey. _Quipa waicha laimi_, Shall we Fight together? _Waiquenagelan_, I have no Arms. _Ima en pea in Waiqui_, Follow me, and I will get Arms. _Ali teum inche_, I am contented. [Illustration] The Seamen who went under _Hendrick Brewer_’s Command, _Anno 1643._ from _Brasile_ to _Chili_, brought the fore-mention’d Vocabulary along with them. _Chili_ is look’d upon as no way inferior to any Countrey in _America_, enjoying a wholsom Air, fruitful Soil, and abundance of Inhabitants, who often furnish _Peru_ with Provisions; which are the speedier convey’d thither, because the South-Winds always blow along the Coast. The _Peruvian_ Vice-Roy keeps a Deputy to Govern here. It hath two Bishopricks, _viz._ St. _Jago_ and _L’ Imperial_. [Sidenote: The Nature, Customs, and Manners of the _Chileses_.] Some of the _Chileses_ are under the _Spaniards_ Jurisdiction, and live in Huts; others being wilder, defend their Freedom with the Sword. They have great Heads and flat Noses: The Men continually pull out the Hair on their Faces and Privities with Shells, which they carry about their Necks for that purpose, having beforehand rubb’d the Hair with warm Ashes; the Hair of their Heads hanging downwards is cut close as far as their Ears, the rest growing long, is ty’d with the Ribbon _Tariwelonco_, to which Persons of Quality fix Silver Plates and _Turkoises_: Some also cover their Heads with the Skins of Weazels, or the like Beasts, putting the Head over their Foreheads, and the Tail down their Neck; which kind of Covering they call _Maniewelonco_: Others wear Caps made after some strange manner or other. The _Chileses_ are not the tallest, but strong and well set, betwixt a white and sallow colour: Those that are in the _Spaniards_ Service, wear long Hair, by which they are distinguish’d from the shorn _Ucais_, who do the _Spaniards_ all the mischief imaginable. The Women are for the most part low of stature, but of a strong Constitution, they go bare-headed, letting their Hair hang loose over their Shoulders, except when they are indispos’d, and then they tie it up: But those that dwell about _Castro_ wear Locks like our _English_ Ladies. In _Coquimbo_ and _Loquimbo_ they go after the same manner as the _Peruvian_ Women: All of them have thick black Hair. Their Apparel, though mean, is neat: The Men wear wide Breeches girt about their Wastes, and a piece of woollen Cloth, three Yards long and two broad, which having a Hole in the middle, they put over their Heads, and so let it hang on their Shoulders, leaving their Arms and Legs bare; but on Festival Days they wear curious embroider’d Stockings. The Women likewise cover themselves with the same piece of Cloth, but after another manner, tying it first about their Middle, then let it down to the Ground, pinn’d before with Silver or Golden Pins; their Heads, Breasts and Legs are uncover’d; the Cloth it self is strip’d with red, white, blue, and yellow, and fring’d at the edges. For an Example of their quick and easie Labor, _Hendrick Brewer_ relates, That a Woman being Deliver’d in his Ship, within an hour after walk’d up and down the Deck, and gave the Child suck. Some of them have such great Breasts, that throwing them over their Shoulders they suckle their Children, being ty’d at their Backs. Their Huts being low, are made of Straw, Canes, and Boughs, and not built for one single Family; for often thirty, fifty, a hundred, or a hundred and twenty dwell under one Roof, and have a Governor, by them call’d _Caruca_. Their Housholdstuff is little and mean, _viz._ two or three Cans to keep their Liquor _Chica_ in, Horn Cups, a Stone whereon they grind their Corn, and one or two woodden Stools: The chiefest of them also use Sheep-skins, which they spread on the Ground before their Guests. They live without care, for they neither Sowe nor Plant any more than will serve them a Year. Their Riches consist in Cattel, of which they have no great plenty. About the beginning of _October_ a whole Town meets together to Plough and to Sowe, which the Men perform in two days time, the rest of the Work being left to the care of the Women; for the Men never meddle with Reaping or Harvest. They eat and drink from Morning to Evening, when they do not travel, for then they eat at set-times. Their Liquor is made of Barley-Meal, or Wheat boyl’d in Water. On Festival Days they drink _Chica_, Brew’d of _Maiz_ chew’d by the Teeth of old Women. They likewise make a Liquor of the Fruit _Unni_, which tastes like _Madera_ Wine. [Sidenote: Their Marriages.] Every Man Marries as many Wives as he can buy and maintain, for Maids and Widows must be sold by the Parents, who set not a Price upon them according to their Beauty or Quality, but their skill in managing Houshold Affairs. Their Marriages are perform’d after a strange manner: A Son having no Inheritance, lives on the Charity of his nearest Relations, who Present him, one with a Hog, another with a Cow, a third with a Sheep, and a fourth with somewhat else: thus enrich’d, he goes to his Mistresses Father, and hangs some _Turkoises_ and Plates of Silver about his Neck, and acquainting him with what Estate he can make his Wife, he agrees as well as he can with his intended Father-in-law, to whom he gives ten, fifty, or a hundred Sheep, Oxen, Cows, Hogs, Horses, Poultrey, a Coat, and some Vessels full of _Chica_; which done, the Father leads his Daughter to the Bridegroom’s House, where he is Entertain’d with Meat, but finds the Drink at his own Cost. Some days after the Celebration of the Wedding, the nearest Relations come to congratulate the young Marry’d Woman, and at Dinner sing an _Epithalamium_ to their Nuptial Deity _Maruapeante_, all of them sitting on the Ground on Sheep-skins. The Allies often take away a Woman from her Husband, especially when he misuses her; and if a Man kill his Wife, her Death is reveng’d by her Relations. Persons of Quality build a Hut for every one of their Wives, sending word to her whom they have a mind to enjoy: They respect one above the rest, who are in a manner but Slavesses, being forc’d to do all the Drudgery. The Men are exceeding jealous and chollerick, cruelly beating their Wives, if they chance but to look on another Man; and if they take them in the Act of Adultery, they immediately kill them; yet for all this they are not Chaste, but very Libidinous. As soon as a Woman is Deliver’d of a Child, she washes her self and the Child in cold Water; then kills a Lamb call’d _Chiluraque_, makes a Feast; at which she her self eats and drinks freely amongst the rest, and the next day goes about her usual Employment. The _Spaniards_ tell us, that their Women, if they continue long in this Countrey, are more and more hardned by the Air, and are as little concern’d at the Birth of a Child as the Natives. A Widow hath free leave to Marry again, provided she hath given to her Children part of what she hath; but if she Marry not, but return to her Parents, then she is highly esteem’d of. Both Men and Women wash themselves in the Rivers in the coldest Weather. [Sidenote: Their Religion, and manner of burying their Dead.] They adore chiefly their Deity _Pillan_, and the Devil, who doth them much hurt. They acknowledge no Resurrection, accounting long Life in this World the greatest Good; wherefore when any one dies, the Friends and Relations make a doleful Cry, and suffer the dead Body to lie three, nay, four Moneths before they bury them, stuffing them full of strong smelling Herbs, to keep them from putrifying: Three days before their Interrment the nearest Allies meet, kill a Sheep, make Merry, and throw the Body into a Hole near the Hut in which the Deceased dwelt, putting also a piece of the slain Sheep, and a Jug full of the Liquor _Chica_, into the Grave. Concerning their Idol _Pillan_, to whom with strange Gestures they Sing divers Songs, they believe that he is a Spirit of the Air, and Governs all things on Earth. Some suppose him to be Thunder, and therefore they worship him in a most particular manner when they hear it Thunder; for then they stick an Arrow and Stone Ax into the Ground, and take Arms into their Hands, putting themselves into a posture as if they should suddenly be set upon by a mighty Enemy, and look’d upon it heretofore as a fore-running of the _Spaniards_ approach, whose Cruelties they exceedingly dreaded. They call all their Hero’s _Pillans_, and ascribe Divine powers to them. They take very much strong Tobacco, the Smoak whereof puffing in the Air with strange Gestures, they cry, _Receive this, O Pillan_. [Sidenote: Their cruel usage of Prisoners.] When they return home Conquerors from any Victory, they put a Stone Ax into the Ground, and standing Arm’d round about the same, Drink exceedingly, and sing a Song in honor of _Pillan_. They use their Prisoners very cruelly, for forcing them to Dance and make Merry amongst them, they on a sudden cleave their Heads with an Ax, pull their Hearts out of their Bodies, and bite the same with their Teeth. After the same manner they punish their Robbers and Traitors; but those that have good store of _Chica_ to Present the Governors with, escape the Execution: Yet this cannot buy off Sorcerers or Witches, who are without mercy burnt alive, with all they enjoy’d. They have no Priests, nor any that pretend to any religious Function; onely those that can Sing the _Pawary_ well, are in great esteem amongst them. Their second Deity _Maruapeante_ (they say) informs them in a Dream when they must Marry; but he doth not do them this kindness before they have made themselves Drunk, and sung Sonnets to his praise. [Sidenote: The manner of chusing the _Nentoque_.] This Countrey is Govern’d by prime Persons, call’d _Ulmen_, or peculiar Lords, call’d _Curacen_. The _Ulmens_ and _Curacens_ Command twenty five, sometimes fifty, a hundred Families: Their Power consists in calling all the People together, and consulting with them about State-Affairs, which they dare not do with any particular Person, nor Levy any Tax without extraordinary occasion. They are bound to march in the Front of their Subjects against an Enemy, and are under a Governor-General call’d _Apocurace_, or under a _Nentoque_. Other lesser Offices are dispos’d of by the _Curaces_, or _Pulmenes_; but their _Netonques_ are chosen after this manner, _viz._ When that honorable Place is vacant, then whoever aims at it, computes with himself whether his Means will extend so far as to treat the _Curaces_ and _Pulmenes_ with a noble Treat; which if he is able to do, then he sends for them to an appointed place, whither they all go Arm’d, and whilest they are eating and drinking, he that desires the Place begins to tell them of his noble Extract, valiant Exploits, Riches, and eminent Relations, and therefore desires the Place of the deceased _Nentoque_: then the _Curace_ rising, the intended _Nentoque_ hangs a Chain of _Turkoises_, or Cockle-shells about his Neck; whereupon the _Curace_ moves the rest to the Election, without any Articles, the new _Nentoque_ onely promising to Govern all things for the best advantage and benefit of the common State: which done, the _Curace_ takes the Chain of _Turkoises_, and distributes them amongst the primest Persons of Quality, and so they end the Day in Drinking, Dancing and Singing. After the same manner they chuse an _Apocurace_ or prime Governor; which of late the _Uca_’s, that they may enjoy the more Priviledge themselves, have not elected. [Sidenote: Their Arms.] The _Chileses_ Arms consist of Lances as long again as the _Europeans_, made sharp at the Points. They all use Clubs plated with Iron, and _Spanish_ Swords. The _Pulches_, who dwell behind the high Mountains _Cordilbra_, use poyson’d Arrows, make Helmets and Breastplates of Ox-hides, which neither Sword nor Arrow can enter: they all know how to manage a Horse, and the use of a Lance, but are very much afraid of Musquets or Fire-locks. Because they can neither write nor read, the Governor by a faithful Messenger sends to his inferior Officers such Commands as he judges may tend to the most advantage of the Publick both in Peace and War. This Messenger carries an Arrow with a Ribbon, as a Sign of his Employment; the Arrow is held in the Right-hand, and if he who receives it will answer the Message, then he sends back the same Arrow with another; but if he judges it convenient to acquaint any other _Curaces_ and _Pulmenes_ with the same Message, then he sends one of his own Servants to them with the same Arrow. [Sidenote: A particular Account of _Chili_.] As touching the Climate and Production of _Chili_, this Account is given by an Eye-witness: “The Winter Season (saith he) is so tempestuous, that sometimes the Trees are not onely blown up by the Roots, but the Earth it self is rent asunder; some Valleys being fill’d with Snow, swell the Rivers exceedingly when it melts, which overflowing part of the Countrey, makes the same very fruitful. It is also extream cold here, because such sharp Winds blow from the Mountains, that they pierce through the Skin and Flesh of a Man: and indeed these Winds would make the whole Countrey desolate, were not the Mountains overgrown with great Oaken Trees, against which the Wind breaks. Moreover, the Valleys produce Coals, which serve the Inhabitants for Fewel. The Winter bereaves the Trees of Leaves; but not those which grow in the Wildernesses. In _March_ the Fields are full of innumerable sorts of sweet-smelling Flowers; out of some whereof are boyl’d the _Angel-Water_, so call’d for its smell and wholsom taste. The Grass grows in _November_ and _December_ as high as our standing Corn. Turnips, Mint, Clover, and Mustard-seed, grow naturally for several Leagues together. Likewise excellent Physical Herbs grow here, whose power and operation their Doctors, call’d _Maci_, keep from the _Spaniards_. These _Maci_ are in great esteem, not onely amongst the _Chileses_, but also the _Spaniards_, for their great skill in Physick. Amongst these Herbs the chiefest is call’d _Quincia-mali_ which grows but half a hands-breadth above the Ground, and spreads into several Stalks like a Nosegay; and on each Stalk is a Saffron-colour’d Flower. This Herb pull’d Up with the Root, and boyl’d, and the Decoction given to any one that is bruis’d within, works most wonderfully, for it draws out the putrifi’d Blood, though sunk never so deep in the Wound. Moreover the Juice of _Culen_ is also very healing, if us’d for an Ointment, or pour’d on any Wound. This Herb, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Albaciga_, hath sweet-smelling Leaves, and a tall Body. In some places also grows an Herb, not unlike Grass, which boyl’d in Water, immediately cures the Feaver and Spleen, and cleanses the Blood. There are likewise Medicines here, which dissolving the Stone in the Bladder or Kidneys, cause it to be urin’d forth. The Plant _Luce_, which grows out of rented Rocks which are often overflow’d by the Sea, makes a sort of well tasted Bread.” The Wilderness _Atacama_, which makes a Boundary betwixt _Peru_ and _Chili_, extends Northward ninety Leagues, is dry and barren in Summer, and in the Winter exceeding cold, and cover’d with Snow. No Provision is to be found upon it, except a few wild Sheep, call’d _Guanacos_. About the middle thereof the Brook _La Sal_ rising in the Eastern Mountains, flows Westward through a deep Valley to the Southern Ocean. [Sidenote: Troublesom Passage from _Peru_ to _Chili_.] The Water of the fore-mention’d Brook put into any Vessel, immediately turns to Salt, and all along the Shore lie greater or lesser pieces of Salt; so that the Way from _Peru_ to _Chili_ through _Atacama_ is very troublesom: but that which leads thither over the snowy Mountains _Andes_, is much worse, because it is farther about, and threatens the Traveller with Destruction, if he observe not the right Season of the Year; for in the Winter there blows such a cold Wind on these Mountains, that a Man, being suddenly benumm’d, falls down dead on the Ground, and grows stiff against all putrefaction. _Joseph de Acosta_ tells us, that Bodies have been found there as firm and sound, as if they had been living, which had some years before breath’d their last on the said Mountains. [Sidenote: The Valley _Copayapo_.] But _Diego Almagro_, who first discover’d _Chili_, Anno 1536. went thither with two Companies of Horse, and five hundred Foot, through the Countreys _Charcas_, _Chicas_, _Xuxayes_, and _Chaquana_, and having pass’d over a craggy Soil and the snowy Mountains _Andes_, he entred into the first _Chilean_ Valley _Capayapo_, having lost no small number of Men and Horses with Hardship and Cold; the inconvenience therefore of both the fore-mention’d Ways between _Peru_ and _Chili_, forc’d Travellers to go along the Shore wash’d by the Southern Ocean. _Copayapo_ bears that Denomination from the _Turkoises_ which a Mountain produces there in great abundance. The Valley it self is the fruitfullest of all _Chili_; for in no place the _Maiz_ grows better, and in greater abundance than here, the Ears being half a Yard long, and the Stalks the length of a Lance; each Grain that is Sow’n, yields at least three hundred in Harvest. All _Spanish_ Fruits grow better here than in _Spain_. Through the midst of _Copayapo_ runs a River of the same Denomination, and twenty Leagues in length from the _Andes_, and at its Mouth hath a convenient Harbor before the South Sea. The South part of _Copayapo_ borders the Valley _Guasco_, which is less fruitful than the first, but hath a convenient Haven, into which falls a fresh River, penn’d in by Sluces for the watering of the Cane-Fields. Moreover, there are plenty of Partridges; also wild Sheep and grey Squirrel-skins are of a great value. To the Southward flow also the Rivers _Maypo_, _Chacha_ Pool, _Loro_, and _Moule_. Beyond these Streams Eastward, the _Promouca_’s dwell near the Mountains _Andes_. In the Valley _Chili_, which gives Denomination to the whole Countrey, were formerly the famous Gold-Mines _Quillatas_, from whence _Valdivia_, Anno 1544. carry’d an invaluable Treasure. The South Sea makes here a large and convenient Harbor for all manner of Vessels, built two Leagues below the City _Serena_, at a little River, which so moistens the low Countrey, that it produces all manner of Plants. It rains here not above three times a year. From the Entertainment which Sir _Francis Drake_ met withal here, may sufficiently be conjectur’d the Power of _Serena_; for when the _English_ Landed here for Water, they were driven away not without great loss by three hundred _Castilian_ Horse, and two hundred Foot that Sally’d out of the City. The Mines, though they inclose much Gold, yet they produce but little, because the _Spaniards_, according to the testimony of a _Chilean_ Pilot, whom _Oliver Van Noort_ took Prisoner, destroy’d all the ancient Inhabitants that should have help’d them to dig the Gold. The City _St. Jago_, lying near the Stream _Topocalma_, receives great benefit by the Haven _Valparayso_, which makes the fore-mention’d River, because in that Haven all Goods that come from _Lima_ are unladen, and the Goods shipp’d aboard. The Countrey about the same produces plenty of Wines, Apples, Corn, and all sorts of Cattel, and especially Horses in such abundance, that thousands of them run wild. In _Valparayso_ Sir _Francis Drake_ took a Ship from _Valdivia_, laden with two thousand five hundred Bars of fine Gold. But the _Netherland_ Admiral, _Joris Spilbergen_, had not such good success, who Sailing thither with five Ships, _Anno 1615._ discover’d a _Spanish_ Ship in the Harbor; where sending his Boats well Mann’d to fetch off a Vessel that lay hal’d on the Shore, they found it burning, and thereupon Steer’d their Course into a little Inlet full of Rocks, which serv’d the _Spaniards_ in stead of Breast-works; for lying behind them, they fir’d continually on the _Hollanders_; yet _Spilbergen_ Landing with two hundred Men, met a considerable number of _Spanish_ Soldiers, and Horses drawn out on the Shore, from whom they soon fled. Before the City _La Conception_ lies the Island _Quiriquyna_, whose Straw Huts _Spilbergen_ laid in Ashes. At the time when _Oliver Van Noort_ came to an Anchor here, the Governor _Franciscus de Quinones_ Commanded seven hundred _Spanish_ Soldiers to reduce the revolted _Chileses_. Four Leagues from _Conception_ lie the rich Gold-Mines _Quilacoya_, which formerly produc’d great Riches. Over against the Valley _Arauco_, which rises out of the Sea, lies the Island _Maria_, in a large Inlet made by the force of the Waves. Here grows abundance of Wheat and Barley. The Rivers also afford plenty of Fish, amongst which there is one call’d _The Lake-Spider_, in whose Eyes are to be seen little Specks, which would exceed Pearl, if they were but hard enough. Two _Spaniards_ Command forty Natives on _Maria_, and keep them in such slavery, that they may neither eat Apples, Pears, Grapes, Poultrey, or Sheep, though they are there in great abundance. _Elias Herkmans_ was once in probability to have taken possession of this Island for the _Netherland_ State, had he not been prevented by an extraordinary occasion. Between the Towns _Conception_ and _Imperial_ lie the Provinces _Arauco_, _Tucapel_, and _Puren_, inhabited by a valiant People, that often alarm the _Spaniards_. In each Province _Valdivia_ built a Fort in the Year 1551. eight Leagues distant from one another. He also discover’d the rich Gold-Mines _De Ongol_, and built the Fort _Confines_ there. [Sidenote: _Valdivia_ taken Prisoner and cruelly put to death by the _Indians_.] The Natives hereabouts being exceedingly opprest by the _Spaniards_, fell upon the Fort in _Puren_, where those in the Garrison, unable to defend themselves, went to _Tucapel_ and from thence to _Arauco_, to Settle there. _Valdivia_ marching with three hundred Men to the Castle in _Tucapel_, was so fiercely assaulted at the River _Leto_, that all his Men were kill’d, and he himself being taken Prisoner, had melted Gold pour’d down his Throat: One Boy onely escaping, brought the news to those in Garrison in the Fort _Arauco_, who fled to _La Conception_, as those from _Puren_ to _Imperial_. Not long after the Lieutenant _Francisco de Villagra_ went with a hundred and sixty Soldier’s to _Raquetta_, a Promontory against the South Sea in _Arauco_, to take Revenge for the Death of his General _Valdivia_; but he also had like to have follow’d the same fate, for he left ninety six Men behind him, and with much ado recover’d _La Conception_: By which means the victorious _Chileses_ came to be so much fear’d, that the _Spaniards_ forsook the Towns _Rica_, _St. Jago_, and _Confines_, and fortifi’d themselves strongly in _Imperial_. [Sidenote: Description of _Arauco_.] Concerning _Arauco_, it is a small County, twenty Leagues long and seven broad. The Inhabitants thereof are strangely valiant; those that inhabit the Mountains are call’d _Pulches_, and are generally of a duller Spirit than those that dwell in the Valleys; all of them use long Pikes, Halberds, Bowes and Arrows, Helmets, and Breastplates of Deer-skins, in the Wars; they know when to close and open their Ranks, and stand in good order according to Martial Discipline, which makes the _Spanish_ King receive little benefit from _Arauco_, though it is full of rich Mines, because those in Garrison being five hundred in number, dare not come out of their Fort. To _Arauco_ belongs the Island _La Mocha_, low on the North side, and rocky on the South; against which the Ocean breaks its Billows: in the middle of it rises a split Mountain, out of whose Gap flows a fresh Brook; the fruitful Soyl produces abundance of Pumpcons, Maiz, Potato’s, and all manner of delicious Fruit, as also Oxen, Sheep, and other Cattel, which go grazing up and down in great Herds; the Village that is upon it boasts about fifty Huts, built long of Straw, with a Door in the middle, and round like an Arch on the top. [Sidenote: _Van Noon_’s and _Spilbergen_’s Entertainment in _Mocha_.] Sir _Francis Drake_ and _Candish_ were formerly somewhat roughly Entertain’d here by the Inhabitants: but they shew’d themselves somewhat more civil to the _Dutch_ Admirals, _Oliver Van Noort_ and _Joris Spilbergen_: The first coming to an Anchor here _Anno 1600._ put one _John Claeszoon_ (Condemn’d for some great Crime to be Landed on some strange Place) ashore on _La Mocha_, with a few Trifles; for which being kindly Entertain’d, the Seamen resolv’d to go ashore the next day, who were likewise civilly Treated. The Governor of _Mocha_ coming aboard, Lodg’d a Night in the Ship, and afterwards conducted the Admiral through the Village, but forbad the Seamen from entring any of the Huts; out of which the Women upon the hearing of a sudden noise, came running out, and kneel’d down on the Ground in three Parties, whilest an old Matron came forth with a Pitcher full of _Chica_, and gave each of the _Netherlanders_ a Cup full to drink, sitting on Blocks in the Fields. A Man Marries as many Wives here as he can maintain. They all live peaceably one with another, and go Cloth’d with a pair of Breeches, and Frock without Sleeves. The Women tie their Hair in Braids about their Heads, but the Men let it hang down carelesly. Fifteen years after _Spilbergen_ Landing here with four well Mann’d Boats, found the Shore full of People, who had brought all manner of Provisions to barter against Axes and Knives. The Islanders going aboard, wondred to see the Soldiers drawn out in order, and much more when a Gun was fir’d: They furnish’d the _Hollanders_ with a hundred Sheep, amongst which was one with an extraordinary long Neck, and Legs, Hair, Mouth, and Back like a Cammel. The _Netherland_ Admiral, _Hendrick Brewer_, coming to an Anchor on the Coast of _Guadalanquen_, Anno 1643. was inform’d by the _Chileses_, that about four years before they had burnt _Baldivia_, murder’d the _Spaniards_ that were in Garrison, and pour’d melted Gold down the Governor’s Throat and into his Ears, and made a Drinking-Cup of his Scull, and Trumpets of his Shin-bones. _Brewer_ also found some Ruines of the City, which formerly boasted four hundred and fifty Houses, and was not yet so utterly defac’d, but that the two Markets and cross Streets were plainly to be seen, and the Walls gave sufficient testimony of its ancient lustre. The Countrey round about produces Wheat and Barley; neither are there any Mines to be found that produce finer Gold than those which are hereabouts. In the Mouth of the River which runs to _Baldivia_, lies a small Isle, the Men whereof are gross and fat, and spend their time in Drinking and Dancing, whilest the Women do all the Work. About the City _Osorno_, though lying under a cold Climate, is a Soil full of Gold-Mines, where above two thousand _Chileses_ are under the subjection of the _Spaniards_. Since _Teunis Swarte-Teun_ conquer’d and ruin’d this Place with small Forces under _Spilbergen_’s Command, it hath not yet repair’d its Losses: The Ruines of great Buildings are sufficient testimonies of its former splendor. On the utmost Point of the Island, on which _Osorno_ is built, lies the Village _Carel-Mappo_, burnt by _H. Brewer_, An. 1643. for he Landing sixty six Men here, under the Command of the Ensign _Blauewenhaen_, they Engag’d with ninety _Spaniards_ who betook themselves to the Woods, leaving six Men and fifteen Horses behind them. [Sidenote: Description of the Sea-Coast of _Chili_.] The Sea-Coast of _Chile_ lies as followeth: It begins on the North with the Valley _Copayapo_, runs Southerly to the Haven _Coquimba_, and makes the large Inlet _Atongayo_; the convenient Harbor _Quintero_, at the Mouth of the River _Concagua_, is also to the Southward. Next _Quintero_ follow the Havens _Valparaysa_, _Topocalma_, and _Penco_, known by several Mountains cover’d with Snow. The Stream _Labapi_ disembogues also in the Bay _Arauco_, where the Sea washing over the Shore, makes good Salt. On the Shore of the River _Lebo_, _Garcias Mendoza_ built the Town _Canete_, which not long after was deserted, by reason of the Wars with the _Chileses_. From the Haven _Carnero_ a Channel runs to the City _Confines_: also the River _Cauten_ makes a convenient Harbor before the City _Imperial_. Next appear the Streams _Tolten_, _Queule_, _Valdivia_, _Chabin_ and _Bueno_; and near the Promontory _Gallego_, _Chili_ ends to the South. [Sidenote: The Province _Tucuman_.] Eastward up into the Countrey lies the great Province _Tucuman_, inhabited by three sorts of People, _viz._ _Juries_, _Diagnitas_, and _Tucumans_, from whom the Countrey receives its Denomination, and juts Northward against the _Chicas_, belonging to the rich Plate-Countrey _Potosi_, Eastward towards the Province _La Plata_, and Westward towards the South Sea. The Ground about the City _St. Jago del Estero_, formerly call’d _Vares_, being the Bishop’s See, and Residence of the Governors, is brackish and sandy. The Citizens are most of them Weavers; the Natives go Cloth’d, and are of an affable Temper and Disposition. The River _Estera_ yearly overflows the Countrey, which being dung’d with Mud, produces abundance of _Maiz_, Barley, Wheat, and all manner of Fruits. The Stream _Salado_ runs the same Course as the _Estera_, from the West to the East through a Plain-Countrey, but hath brackish Water, and abundance of Fish. Between both these Rivers the Inhabitants get plenty of Honey, Wax, Cotton, and _Cochenile_. Cattel also increases in abundance, as likewise Deer, and other Venison; and for Fowl, Partridges, Pigeons, and the like; but the Tygers and Lyons do much mischief to the Inhabitants. Their chief Commodities for Trade and Merchandise are Cloth, Cotton and Salt. _Garcias Mendoza_ built the Towns _Neuva Londres_ in the Province _Calchaqui_, and _Gorduba_ in the Territory of the _Juries_, but they were both of them soon deserted. Behind _Peru_ and _La Plata_ the Plains _Omaguaza_ extend themselves along the Rivers _Paraguay_ and _Bermeio_, under a temperate Climate, where the Inhabitants go Clothed, and keep abundance of Cattel. [Sidenote: Productions of the Countrey, and Nature of the People.] In most places hereabouts breed wonderful large Baboons, with long Tails and Beards; which being wounded, pull the Arrows out of the Wound, and throw back the same with a grim Countenance at those that shoot them. The Serpents are likewise so big here, that they swallow whole Deer. The Rivers breed horrid Crocodiles, and the Woods, Lyons and Tygers. The Inhabitants differ both in their Customs and Language: the generality of them are continually Drunk. They keep yearly a great Feast, to reconcile the Souls of their Predecessors to them; to which purpose they bring as many roasted Ostriches as they have Souls to Offer to; then Drink three days after, and on the last they carry the Head of a fair Virgin (who freely offers her self to be kill’d) about the Town, making a sad and lamentable noise for the space of an hour; at the end of which they all begin to laugh, and oftentimes fall a killing one another: which Custom is most observ’d amongst the _Matarani_. The _Abipones_ go naked in Summer, and in the Winter Clothe themselves with Furrs; they Paint their whole Bodies with Spots like the Tygers, Carve their Bodies all over, making Cut-work of their Skins, into which they stick Ostriches Feathers, as also through their Nostrils, Lips, and Ears, and account Baldness the greatest Beauty. They honor those for their Gods, who patiently endure unsufferable Tortures. The Women hang their Faces and Breasts full of Pearls: They never bring up above two Children, for they kill all above that number. The _Planies_ range up and down without Habitations under the open Skie. The Giants _Tobae_ speak a curious Language, but are very salvage and cruel. _Anno 1571._ _Erouaca_, a prime Man amongst them, devour’d his own Sister, Wife, Mother, and Children. When they design to go a Journey, they roast their Sons and Daughters, to serve them for Provisions in stead of other Flesh; and their Sick are upon the least Complaint bury’d alive. The _Caaguiaares_, who dwell in Huts in great Woods, feed on Woorms, Mice, Apes, Tygers, and wild Honey; most of them are bunch-back’d, and go clad with the Skins of wild Beasts. [Illustration] CHAP. III. Magellanica. [Sidenote: Several Voyages to _Magellanica_.] Northward against _Chili_ and _Rio de la Plata_ juts the Countrey, which from _Ferdinand Magaglianus_ is wrongly call’d _Magellanica_; to which several Voyages have been made by sundry People from the North-Sea to the Southern Ocean, divers Steering still new Courses: for some follow’d the _Straights_ of _Magellan_; others Sail’d more or less South-West: By which means _Le Mair_ open’d a new Passage between _Mauritius_ and the _States-Island_; and _H. Brewer_, a Way below the _States-Island_; yet all Steer’d their Course Westerly, so that none of them return’d the same Way, except _Elias Herkmans_ and Capt. _Ladrillero_, the last of whom coming from _Chili_ to go to the North-Sea, met with such Storms, that he was forc’d to Tack about, and stand back again to _Chili_, as _Herkmans_ did from _Chili_ to _Brasile_. [Sidenote: _Pedro Sarmiento_’s Expedition.] _Anno 1579._ _Peter Sarmiento_ weigh’d Anchor with two Ships, and Sailing from _Callao de Lima_ through the _Straights_ of _Magellan_ to _Spain_, ran by the Isles _Felix_ and _Amber_, discover’d in one Inlet eighty five Isles, most of them desolate, sounded all the Havens, found abundance of Oysters with Pearls in them, call’d an Inlet _Francisco_, and a Mountain on the right-hand, _Punta de la Gente Rubra_, because the Inhabitants thereof painted their Bodies red, found the Havens _Misericordia_ and _Candelaria_, and the Island _Sataynes_, where five of the Natives gave him an Account of Sir _Francis Drake_, for whom he Cruis’d, and had sight of a snowy Mountain, whose top vomited Fire. On the Promontory _Ana_ he erected a woodden Cross, and laid a Writing under the same, wherein he advertis’d all Persons to take notice, that Pope _Alexander_ the Sixth had freely given the King of _Spain_ all the Countreys thereabouts. Not long after he Steer’d through the _Straights_ of _Magellan_ along the Coast of _Brasile_, to _Spain_. [Sidenote: The Sea-Coast from _Chili_ to _Magellanica_.] Concerning the Sea-Coast, which extends from _Chili_ to _Magellanica_, it is as followeth: Next to the Promontory _Felis_ lie _Cypriaen_, _Clara_, _Cabo de las Islas_, the Island _Socora_, the Haven _Domingo_, the Point _Gallego_, the Road _Stevan_, the Cape _Andres_, and _Ochavario_, and the Valley _Nuestra Sennora_, between two Hills. Along the Southern Ocean lie _Abra de San Guillen_, _Punta del Gada_, _Los Reyes_, _Innocentes_, _Augustine_, _Roia_, _Catalina_, _Amaro_, and _Victoriano_; before which the three Isles call’d _The Sorlings_, are seen in the Mouth of the _Straights_ against the South Sea. _Magaglianus_ Steering hither, Winter’d within the _Straights_ in an Inlet call’d _St. Julian_, stay’d two Moneths before the Mouth of the River _Santa Cruiz_, where he took abundance of Fish, and from thence ran along the Shore to the Promontory _Las Virgines_, which receiv’d that Denomination, because it was discover’d on the Day Consecrated to _St. Ursula_ and her eleven thousand _Virgins_: Going a League up into the Countrey, he found a Hut, in which above two hundred dead Bodies were bury’d after a strange manner, and on the Shore a great Whale, driven on the Sands by a Storm. He nam’d the Countrey to the Southward, _Terra del Fuego_, because from the Promontory _Severino_ in the Night he espy’d several Fires. He was exceedingly delighted with the pleasant Coasts on each side of the _Straights_, which were the more pleasant, by reason of several Hills overgrown with sweet-smelling Trees, whose tops lay cover’d with Snow. [Sidenote: The Expedition of _Garcias Loaysa_, _Alcazova_, and others.] _Magaglianus_ was follow’d, _Anno 1525._ by _Garcias Loaysa_, who Sailing into the _Straights_ near the Promontory _Virgines_, endur’d great Colds; in the Haven _St. George_ he found store of green Cinamon: The People he reported to be of so monstrous a stature, that they might well be accounted Giants; some of whom went naked, others wore a Net of Feathers made fast about their Wastes, and others a loose Garment all over their Bodies. _Loaysa_ gave this Countrey, inhabited by Giants, the Denomination of _Terra del Patagoni_. He judg’d the _Straights_ of _Magellan_ to be a hundred and ten _Spanish_ Miles long between the two Promontories, _Virgines_ at the North Sea, and _Deseado_ at the Southern Ocean. Within lie three Inlets, which have seven Leagues in breadth. _Simon Alcazova_ Sailing hither nine years after _Loaysa_, shunn’d the Land on the left-side of the _Straights_, because it lay most under Water, and was forc’d by his Men to return to the Haven _Leones_, where he and all his Seamen were put to death. Not long after the Bishop of _Placentia_ fitted out three Sail, which entring the _Straights_, Anno 1540. lost their Admiral; the Vice-Admiral Wintering at the Inlet _Las Zorras_, (so call’d, because they took many Foxes on a Champain Countrey without Trees) return’d to _Spain_ without any farther success: the third Ship with much ado arriv’d also at _Arequipa_. [Sidenote: The Voyages of _Hawkins_, _Drake_, and _Candish_.] The _English_ Captain, _Richard Hawkins_, also Sailing hither, found the Land on the South side of the _Straights_, most broken, and in some places a few Huts. _Anno 1578._ Sir _Francis Drake_ Sailing hither along the Coast of _Brasile_, Landing on an Island in the Mouth of the _Straights_, kill’d above three thousand Birds. Sailing from hence he was miserably toss’d in the South Sea, and discover’d about the middle of the _Straights_, that the Current out of the Southern and Northern Ocean met at the place where a great Bay bends Southwardly: To three Isles he gave the Name of _Elizabeth_, _Bartholomew_, and _George_, and drove three Weeks without making any Sail, in snowy, misty, and rainy Weather, falling amongst dangerous Rocks, and at last Anchor’d in the Haven _Health_, which he so call’d, because his sick and wearied Men being refresh’d there, he set Sail from thence and return’d home. Captain _Thomas Candish_ following Sir _Francis Drake_ eight years after, found near a Creek within the City _Philip-stadt_, built there by the _Spaniards_, to secure the Passage out of the Northern to the Southern Ocean for themselves; to which purpose they held four hundred Men in Garrison in the said City, which lying near a pleasant Wood, was defended by four Bulwarks, each fortifi’d with a Brass Gun: But the _Spaniards_ not being able to endure the Cold, nor get in their Harvest, which was continually spoil’d by the Natives, were so pinch’d with Hunger, that after three years stay many of them dy’d in their Houses, which caus’d a filthy Stink, and consequently a vile Distemper, not unlike the Small-pox; at last twenty three of them, amongst whom were two Women, judg’d it convenient to bury their great Guns, and march away with their Musquets; a whole Year they travell’d in great want, feeding on the Leaves of Trees, wild Roots, and Fowls which they now and then kill’d; at last they resolv’d to travel by Land to _Rio de la Plata_, but never any news was heard what became of them, onely one _Spaniard_, call’d _Ferdinand_, being stray’d from the rest, was taken by _Candish_, to whom he gave the foremention’d Relation. _Candish_ entring _Philip-stadt_, found a Gibbet, on which hung a Malefactor in Chains, a Church, the Houses full of famish’d Bodies, and four Brass Guns, which he digg’d out of the Ground. From hence he ran to a fresh-water River (which disembogues into the _Straights_,) whose Banks are inhabited by cruel Cannibals, and the Countrey all about plain Pasture Grounds, whereas most part of the Shore in the _Straights_ is very mountainous. _Candish_ Landing, found _Spanish_ Knives and Stilletto’s amongst the Man-eaters, and lay a whole Moneth at Anchor in the western Mouth of _Magellanica_, by reason of great Storms, feeding on Mussles, Cockles, and Fowl; and from thence Sail’d about the World, returning home at last with a Booty of twenty Tun of Gold. _Anno 1599._ _Simon de Cordes_ Commanding five _Netherland_ Vessels, entring the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, found in the green Bay, Mussles of a Span long, abundance of Ducks and Geese, and a great many Trees not unlike Laurel, they being onely bigger, and had a sharp biting Shell. The Wind blew exceeding hard here over the Rocks, insomuch that they were sometimes driven from four Anchors. [Sidenote: The Bird _Pinguyn_.] A few Moneths after _Oliver van Noord_ follow’d _Cordes_, and Anchor’d near the _Pinguyn_ Isles, the biggest whereof is call’d _Castemme_, and the least _Talke_; the Inhabitants thereof dwell in Caverns under Ground, and feed on the Birds _Pinguyns_, of whose Skins they make Mantles. These Birds weigh generally fifteen or sixteen Pound, have black Backs, white Bellies, very thick Skins, long Bills like Ravens, short thick Necks, two plum’d Fins in stead of Wings, black Feet like a Goose, and delicate Flesh, notwithstanding they feed on Fish, after which they swim very swift with the fore-mention’d Fins, which hang down on each side along their Bodies when they walk upright on the Shore; they sit generally four together in their Holes, made after such a manner, that a Man which knows not of them, may ere he be aware, sink up to the Knees in the same, and be bitten terribly by the Legs. _Cordes_ his Seamen got in two hours time above nine hundred of these Birds, whilest he discover’d the salvage People _Enoo_, which inhabit the Countrey _Cossi_, and are divided into the Families _Kemenetes_, _Kennekas_, and _Caraike_; the first inhabited the Territory _Carray_; the second _Caramay_; and the third, _Morine_: all of them Paint their Cheeks and Forehead. Farther into the Countrey dwell the _Trimenes_, a gigantick sort of People, eleven Foot high, who maintain continual Wars with their Neighbors. [Sidenote: Great Discoveries of the _Netherlanders_ about the _Magellan Straights_.] Moreover, _Noord_ discover’d several Inlets full of Ice and fresh Water in the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, whither the _United Netherlands_ have since sent the Admirals _William Schouten_, _Joris Spilbergen_, and _Jaques le Heremite_. The common opinion, that the Countrey on the South side of _Magellan_ is of the Main Continent, Experience hath manifested; for _Schouten_ found the same, _Anno 1616._ who Sailing from _Porto Desire_, left the _Straights_ of _Magellan_ on the right-hand, and Sail’d Southerly through whitish Water, and in fifty four Degrees discover’d a Channel eight Leagues broad, through which ran a strong Current. The Coast rose with high Mountains, whose tops were cover’d with Snow. The utmost Point was call’d _Mauritius_, from the Prince of _Orange_; the broken Coast on the other side, _The States-Island_; and the _Straights_ it self, _Le Maire_, upon the Request of the Merchant _Jacob Le Maire_, whose Father _Isaac_ was chief owner of the two Ships of which _Schouten_ was Commander, who found so many Whales here, that he could scarce Steer clear of them, they swimming by hundreds in a Shoal. The Sea-pies, much bigger than Swans, suffer’d themselves to be caught by the Hands of the Sea-men. Moreover he call’d the barren grey Rocks, and others lesser, lying North-East from the Promontory _Hoorn_, _Barnevields Isles_. Sailing beyond the Point _Hoorn_, he was toss’d by the vast Billows that came rowling out of the West. It was no sooner nois’d abroad, that the _Netherlanders_ had found the Straights _Le Maire_, but the _Spanish_ King _Philip_ immediately sent two Carvels thither, under the Command of _Garcias de Nodal_, who took an exact Account of the Heads, Roads, and Inlets belonging to the fore-mention’d _Straights_, and return’d without performing any other Exploits. [Illustration] [Sidenote: _Diego Flores_ his unsuccessful Voyage to the _Straights_ of _Magellan_.] _Diego Flores_ Steer’d four years before _Candish_ to the _Straights_ of _Magellan_ with twenty three Sail of Ships, Mann’d with three thousand five hundred Seamen, besides five hundred old _Netherland_ Soldiers, with which he unhappily weigh’d Anchor from _Cales_; for before he got out of sight of the _Spanish_ Coast, he lost five of his Ships and eight hundred Men; yet prosecuting his Voyage, he stay’d during the Winter Season on the Coast of _Brasile_ and was surpris’d by so vehement a Storm, near the Island _Catalina_, that a company of Women, sent under the Charge of _Peter Sarmiento_ to Settle in the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, were all cast away, with the greatest part of the Ammunition and Provisions. The _English_ Admiral _Fenton_ took three Ships of this Fleet from _Flores_, two were cast away in the River _La Plata_, and one ran back to _Spain_, whilest _Flores_ came into the _Straights_ of _Magellan_ on the last day of _March_, at which time the whole Countrey lay cover’d with Snow; wherefore seeing no hopes of finding out any place to Settle _Sarmiento_ upon, he stood back with eight Sail to _Brasile_, and in his Return burnt three _French_ Ships, took two more, and Sail’d home. But his Lieutenant _Diego Ribera_, and the Governor _Peter Sarmiento_, Landed the Year after _Flores_ his departure, with four hundred Men, thirty Women, and Provisions for eight Moneths, in the _Straights_ of _Magellan_; from whence _Ribera_ Sail’d back, whilest _Sarmiento_ built on the North side of the Mouth of the _Straights_, the Town _Nombre de Jesus_; and fifty Leagues farther in the narrowest place, _Philip-stadt_, with four Bulwarks; the Inhabitants of which (as is before related) were destroy’d by Famine. [Sidenote: Description of _Terra del Fuego_.] _Terra del Fuego_, already mention’d, opposite to the Countrey of the _Patagones_, lying the South between the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, is a broken Countrey, with high Mountains full of Trees, and wash’d by pleasant Rivulets: four Foot deep in the Ground it begins to be all Rocky. The Air is troubled with exceeding great Winds out of the West. The Inhabitants are pale Countenanc’d, but Paint their Bodies with divers Colours; they have long, thick, and black Hair, and very sharp Teeth; the Men go stark naked; the Women cover their secret Parts with a piece of Leather, and wear Strings full of Shells about their Necks; some also Mantle themselves with the Skins of wild Beasts, which affords but little warmth against the Cold that is here in Winter. Their Huts consist of Trees, and are made round at bottom, and sharp on the top like a Tent, having onely a Hole for the Smoak to go out at; they are digg’d three Foot deep into the Ground, and also heap’d round with Earth; within the Huts nothing is to be found but Baskets with Fishing Utensils and Stone Hooks. Their offensive Arms the Men always carry about with them, because they always maintain Wars with their Neighbors. They handle a Quarter-staff very dexterously, are good Slingers and Bowemen; they also use Lances with sharp Stone Points. Moreover they make Boats of the Bark of Trees, which they first cut out into a Form, then sewing it together, bow the same after the manner of a Boat, which rises before and behind, and being fifteen or sixteen Foot long, can carry eight Men, going exceeding swift. These People are not onely beastial in their Practices, but also Murderers. Lastly, besides the _Straights_ of _Le Maire_, _Henrick Brewer_ hath found a new Passage to the Eastward above the _States-Island_, out of the Northern Ocean to the South Sea. [Illustration] CHAP. IV. The unknown South-Land. The unknown _South-Land_ extends with several Points to the Southern Ocean, which have been more seen than discover’d by divers Nations. Opposite to the _East-India_ Island _Gilolo_, lies _Terra des Papous_, to which _Jacob Le Maire_ gave the Denomination of _New Guinee_. The _English_ Commander, _Richard Hawkins_, Sailing to the Southward behind _Papou_, found the Inhabitants black like _Negro_’s: round about appear several Isles and convenient Harbors. _Herrera_ places here on the East, the Countrey _Agnanda_, the Road _St. Jago_, the Island _Los Crespos_, the Haven _Andreas_, the River _Virginum_, and the little Isle _La Vellena_, before the Mouth of the Stream _Augustine_. Next you meet Easterly with the Rivers _St. Peter_ and _St. Paul_, the Havens _Hieronymus_, the Isles _Punta Salida_, _Abrigo_, _Malagente_, and _Maure de Dios_, inhabited by white People. [Sidenote: Discoveries in _Terra Australis incognita_.] The first that discover’d _New Guinee_, Anno 1529. was _Alvares de Savedra_, who, as also several others besides him, suppos’d that some of the Islands _Solomons_ border _New Guinee_. Eighteen of the many _Solomon_ Isles exceed the rest, of which some are three hundred Leagues in circumference, some two hundred, others one hundred, and some fifty: All that are inhabited have a fruitful Soil, producing all manner of Provisions, particularly Hogs and Poultrey. The Natives differ very much one from another, for some are black, others white or tawny. The fore-mention’d _Hawkins_ in his Voyage towards the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, supposing it by estimation to be fifty Leagues from the Main Coast of _America_, discover’d forty Degrees to the Southward of the _Equinoctial Line_, with a Westerly Wind, the unknown _South-Land_; which he found to consist of low Land, and to be inhabited, by reason of the many Fires which he saw ashore in the Night. The _Spanish_ Commander, _Peter Fernandes de Quiro_, and the Admiral _Lodowick Paes de Torres_, have made a farther Discovery of this Countrey; for Landing on the _South-Land_, they met with several People, some whereof were brown, others white, and others sallow; some had long and lank, others short and curl’d Hair: They acknowledg’d no King or supream Governor, nor were Govern’d by any Laws, neither had they any Wall’d Towns or Forts; but being divided amongst themselves, they continually Encountred one another with Darts, Clubs, and Staves. Their Houses built of Wood, were cover’d with the Leaves of Palm-Trees. Their Housholdstuff consisted in Earthen Dishes, Pots, Ropes, Fish-nets, Flutes, Drums, and varnish’d Spoons. Their Gardens were neatly kept. Near their Temples were Burying-places. They Row’d very swift in little Boats. Their Bread, well tasted, was made of long thick Roots, either roasted or boyl’d. [Sidenote: Fertility, Plenty, and Riches of the Countrey.] Here also grow sorts of _Platano_’s, great abundance of Almonds, Oranges, Citrons, thick Sugar-Canes, Palm-Trees, which yield Wine, _Cocoa_’s, and _Obos_, in taste not much unlike Quinces; but the greatest benefit which they receive, is from the _Cocoa_ Nuts, the Pulp whereof is delicious Meat and Drink; the outermost Shells whereof serve for Cups or Dishes, the inner for Ropes and Cordage; of the Leaves they make Sails and Mats, and cover their Houses with the same; of the Body, Oars, Clubs, Pikes, and Props for their Houses. Besides several sorts of Pot-herbs, here grow very high Coleworts and _Bledo_’s. The Countrey also abounds with Pigeons, Partridges, Ducks, Goats, Hogs, and other ordinary Cattel and Fowls. The Rivers afford them Souls, Salmon, Thornback, Sea-Cocks, Eels, Gurnets, and several other unknown Fishes, very delicate and wholsom. This Countrey also produces Nutmegs, Mastick, Peppers, Ginger, Cinamon, Gold, Silver, Pearls, Silk, Sugar, Anniseed, Honey, Wax, Ebony-wood, Turpentine, Lime-pits, and Marble. _Philips-Bay_ bends twenty Leagues into the Countrey, hath a safe Harbor, and excellent Ground, consisting of black Sand. Two great Rivers discharge their Waters into the said Bay, round about which are pleasant Woods, full of Quails, Parrakito’s, Parrots, Nightingales, and Bulfinches, which Sing very sweetly. The Blossoms, especially of Orange-Trees, and the Herb _Alvaca_, yield an odoriferous smell. The wholsom Air adds vigor to aged People. [Sidenote: _Abel Tasman_’s Expedition to _Terra Australis Incognita_.] [Sidenote: _The Southlander’s desperate Attempt upon Tasman’s Ships._] _Fernandes de Quir_ delivering the fore-mention’d Account to _Philip_ the Second, King of _Spain_, mov’d him to Plant the unknown _South-Land_, and the rather, because he had not found any snowy Mountains, drown’d Land, Crocodiles, _Muschito_’s, or any hurtful Creature, yet was not regarded; so that no _Spaniard_ hath since that time set Foot on the unknown _South-Land_. But the _East-India_ Company undertaking the Design with great eagerness, sent thither two Ships, _viz._ the _Hemskerk_ and _Sea-Cock_, under the Command of _Abel Tasman_, to make a farther Discovery of the said _South-Land_: _Anno 1642._ on the twelfth of _August_, they weigh’d Anchor from _Batavia_, Sail’d through the _Straights_ of _Sunda_ to _Maurice-Island_, where they Anchor’d in the North-West Haven before the Castle _Frederick-Henrick_, on the fifth of _September_ in the fore-mention’d Year. On the eighth of _Octob._ _Tasman_ stood over to the _South-Land_, near which he was surpris’d by a violent Storm; afterwards, on the twenty fifth of _November_, he discover’d a barren Shore, against which the Sea beat very furiously; and Steering along this Coast, he found a convenient Inlet, but was forc’d by the hard Weather to stand off to Sea again; yet not long after approaching the Shore, he saw great hollow Trees, and round about them abundance of Mussle-shells, and from the Wood heard a shrill noise of People Singing: Going to the same place again, he put the Orange Flag on a Pole, Carv’d with the _East-India_ Companies Arms, and call’d the Inlet _Frederick-Henrick_, the whole Coast, _Anthony van Diemen_. Sailing from thence Eastward, he on the eighteenth of _December_ discovered a convenient Haven, where sending his Sloop to discover the Shore, he came back in the Evening, being follow’d by a Boat, which approach’d nearer and nearer, but Night coming upon him, he could not well discern what they were that pursu’d him, but heard the cry of hoarse Voices, and a shrill noise like that of a Trumpet, which the _Netherland_ Seamen answer’d by hollowing, and blowing on their Trumpets, and at last firing a Gun, the _Southlanders_ made a hideous noise, and blowing their Horns, return’d ashore. _Tasman_ hereupon call’d his Watch, laid Hangers, Pikes, and Musquets ready Charg’d, upon the Decks. The next day the _Southlanders_ came in several Boats, two and two ty’d together, and cover’d with Planks, towards the Ships; the Gunner of the _Hemskerk_ going with six Men in a Boat to help mount some Guns in the _Sea-Cock_, were betwixt both Ships set upon by the _Southlanders_, who approacht with a hideous noise, kill’d four of the _Hollanders_ with long Poles, and forc’d the other three to save themselves by swimming; which they had no sooner done, but they Row’d with incredible swiftness towards the Shore, insomuch that they were out of the reach of their Guns before they could make ready to fire at them. _Tasman_ finding that there was no good to be done here, since he hazarded the Lives of his Seamen against a company of wild People, he set Sail, but was follow’d by divers Boats, at which he fir’d his After-Guns with pieces of Iron and Stones, which killing some of them, made the rest return. In the midst of the Boats, which were ty’d two and two together, sat the Commander, who encourag’d the Rowers; they all us’d Clubs without Points. These People were gross of Body, undaunted, strong, and of a tawny colour; the Hair of their Heads stroak’d up round, was ty’d up on their Crown, on which stuck a stiff white Feather; about their Necks hung a square Plate; they wore in stead of Cloaks, square pieces of Cloth, made fast before on their Breasts. _Tasman_, by reason of his rough Entertainment call’d this Harbor, _Murderers-Bay_, and afterwards Sail’d along the Shore till the fifth of _January 1643._ on which Day he dropt Anchor near a little Rocky Island, from which fell two Streams, with a great noise into the Sea. The Inhabitants, a strong People, beckned to the Seamen to come on Shore; some lean’d on thick Clubs, others Fenc’d one with another. _Tasman_ sending his Sloop ashore for Water with two Drakes, return’d without any, not being able to Land, by reason of the hollow Sea near the Shore; wherefore Sailing from thence he discover’d two low Isles, which were full of Woods of very tall Trees; from the biggest whereof came a little Boat, sharp before and behind, in which three sallow Men, sitting behind one another, Row’d with great swiftness towards the _Hemskerk_; whereupon _Tasman_ commanded all his Men to go under the Hatches, that the three _Southlanders_ might not be afraid to come aboard; he also threw a piece of Linnen out of his Cabbin Window, which one of them, leaping into the Sea, took up, and as a sign of thankfulness, laid the same on his Head, and being hereby emboldned, they came nearer the Rudder, where they took up a Knife, ty’d to a piece of Wood, out of the Water, and return’d the Seamen a Fishhook of Mother-of-Pearl, ty’d to a Cotton Line. Approaching the Shore, they saw abundance of People running along, with two little Flags on Sticks. Some of the Natives came in their Boats close up with _Tasman_’s Ship; and one more bold than the rest entring the same, was found to be a tall Man with a broad black Beard, and green Leaves about his Neck, who sat down on the Deck with his Legs under him, and bow’d down his Head oftentimes very low: _Tasman_ returning his Civility, took him by the Hand to Treat him in his Cabbin, but a Dog which was in the Ship Barking, he grew fearful, and went into his Boat again. Several other _Southlanders_ swam aboard, and others brought _Pisang_ and _Clappes_ in their Boats. Against the Evening a great Vessel, surrounded with lesser Boats, came Rowing towards the _Hemskerk_, the Men making a great noise; the Seamen fearing some Design, ran all to their Arms, but were convinc’d of their Friendship by the Gifts they Presented them with from the Governor of the Island. The next day a strange Boat came near the _Sea-Cock_, _viz._ two Sloops, which being ty’d together, and cover’d with Boards, carry’d several Men, Commanded by a Captain, by them call’d _Orangkay_: On the midst of the Boards which cover’d the two Boats, stood a Hut made of Rushes, and cover’d over with _Pisang_ Leaves; the Sails being made of Mats, caus’d it to Sail very swiftly. Round about this Sloop Row’d lesser Boats, out of which loud Acclamations were heard, every one crying out, _Hael, Hael_: during which noise, those _Southlanders_ which were already come aboard, sat still on the Decks, which made _Tasman_ think that their King himself was coming to give him a Visit, which accordingly fell out, for he came and Presented him with several Hogs, Poultrey, _Clappes_ and _Pisang_, all cover’d with white Cloths. [Sidenote: Interview between _Tasman_ and the _Southlander_ King.] This _Southlandish_ King was Habited in a Suit, the Stuff whereof resembled _Chinese_ Paper, doubled and pasted together, and was attended by a great Train of Men, Women, and Children, all of them as black as a Coal; some of them swam after, and others follow’d him in Boats. These _Southlanders_ barter’d their Clothes and Necklaces, which consisted of Mother-of-Pearl and white Cockles, and Fishhooks made also of Mother-of-Pearl, against Nails, Knives, and the like Trifles. _Tasman_ caus’d a Shirt, Breeches, Doublet, and Hat, to be put on an old _Orangkay_; who being thus Cloth’d, stood a considerable time admiring of himself, and was also much wonder’d at by his Subjects; but going into the Countrey, he came back without his Clothes. Another _Orangkay_ being Presented with a Rummer of Wine, pour’d out the Wine, and setting the Rummer on his Head, went away with great joy. Some of the Governors view’d the Ships, not onely above, but also below the Decks, and being brought to the Guns, they desir’d to know the use of them; whereupon one being Discharg’d, it so affrighted them, that had they not been held, they had all leap’d overboard. Provisions were daily brought by the _Southlanders_ to the _Hollanders_ in great Vessels, surrounded by many lesser; still as they put their Oars into the Water, they made a hideous noise. _Tasman_ bringing some empty Vessels upon the Deck, thereby to make them understand that he wanted fresh Water, the _Orangkays_ pointed to the Shore; whither they went with two Boats, which return’d without Water, the Inhabitants themselves being forc’d to dig Pits to get the same. Mean while other _Southlanders_ coming aboard, the Pilot and Boatswain’s Boy blow’d on their Trumpets, another play’d on a Flute, and a fourth on a Violin, whilst some of the Seamen Dancing, so amaz’d the Natives, that they stood like senseless Creature, gaping with open Mouth upon them. _Tasman_ looking into a Grammar which contain’d the Language of the _Solomons_ Isles, found that many words which were us’d by these People, had a great similitude with those of that Language. Besides these Men, there came likewise a great many Women aboard, all of them extraordinary tall, especially two, who might justly be stil’d Giantesses; one whereof had Mustacho’s; both ran, and embracing the Chirurgeon _Henrick Haelbos_, desir’d carnal Copulation with him, and seem’d to quarrel one with another about him: Others confidently put their Hands into the _Hollanders_ Breeches, their Husbands giving consent thereunto: All of them had thick, curl’d, black Hair, which they colour’d red, and comb’d with ten little round Sticks ty’d together on the top, and left wide like Teeth at the bottom; yet some of them let their Hair hang down in long braided Locks; they shave their upper Lips, but keep a square Beard on their Chin; yet amongst the old People there were some whose Cheeks were overgrown with Hair: Their manner of shaving is with the Teeth of certain Fish made fast to a Stick; they all went bare-headed, except some few, who ty’d a square piece of Stuff, wrought of Leaves or Feathers, above their Eyes against the Sun; the upper parts of their Bodies were all naked, but about their Middle some wore a Girdle, others a Mat of _Clappes_ Leaves, others a Cloth not unlike _Chinese_ Paper, about the lower parts of their Bodies. The Womens Apparel differ’d little from the Mens, excepting that their Aprons reach’d farther down, _viz._ to their Knees. They barter’d their Clothes against Nails. Some of the _Orangkays_, being Entertain’d in the Cabbin, wonder’d to see a Bullet that was Discharg’d from the Quarter deck, fall into the Water at so great a distance. They wore about their Necks Mother-of-Pearl, white Cockles, sweet-smelling Flowers, green Leaves, or the Nails which they had gotten of the _Hollanders_: Some of the aged Women wanted both their little Fingers, and the young ones the upper Joints of them, which the old Men also wanted: _Haelbos_ pointing at the Stump, ask’d the reason of it, but one of them laying his Hand under his Chin, made strange Signs, out of which he could apprehend nothing. On the twenty third of _January_, a second time _Tasman_ went ashore for Water, carrying Spades and Pick-axes with him, to dig Pits with. Two of the _Hollanders_ Boats going close together, in each of which were three _Southlanders_, _Tasman_ call’d to his Rowers to pull stoutly; which the _Southlanders_ in _Tasman_’s Boat observing to tend to their Rowing the swifter, laugh’d and hooted at their Countrey-men that were in the _Sea-Cocks_ Boat, when they chanc’d to get beyond them. _Tasman_ in his going ashore discover’d several Isles at a distance, was kindly Entertain’d, and towards the Evening carry’d by four Men through the Water, on a Mat made fast betwixt two Poles, to his Sloop, whither they also brought nine Hogs, and fresh Water digg’d out of Pits. _Tasman_ being got about the Point of the Island, saw the _Hemskerk_ under Sail; wherefore Rowing aboard the _Sea-Cock_, he was inform’d that she had slipt her Anchor; whereupon following her, he got sight of another green Island the next day, along the Shore whereof ran several People with Sticks, on which hung white Cloths: some of them came aboard, and brought with them what Provisions the Island afforded. The Inhabitants barter’d _Clappes_, _Pisang_, Fowls, Hogs, Mother-of-Pearl Fish-hooks, Stone Axes, little Stools, great Clubs, with a black Point as long as a Man’s Arm, and hooked, against Trifles. The _Hollanders_ were also stor’d here with fresh Water. The People both in Language, Habit, and Customs, were very like those of the first Island, but were not altogether so courteous. One of the _Southlanders_ stealing a Half-pike out of the Boat was forc’d by his Companions to restore the same. The fore-mention’d _Haelbos_ relates, That going ashore with some Soldiers, he saw their Houses, which he found to be built after a strange manner, _viz._ some of them were round like Towers, Wider at top than at bottom, and without any Holes for Air, but all built close of Canes, which were stuck in the Ground; other Huts were cover’d with a long Roof of _Pisang_ or _Clappes_ Leaves, resting on Posts; under which kind of Building _Haelbos_ shelter’d himself against a mighty Shower of Rain, found divers young Men and Women sitting on Mats, and an old Woman, blind through Age, lying by them on the Ground, and Fanning her self with _Pisang_ Leaves: The Men going away, signifi’d thereby a kind of Invitation to the _Hollanders_ to go to the Women, who not receiving the Entertainment they expected, rose altogether on a sudden, and Singing, Danc’d about the _Hollanders_. The Men had on their Shoulders and Breasts, Scars of half an Inch deep, and an Inch long; upon some of which, being fresh and bleeding, the Flyes sat. They eat after a strange manner, for stripping off the outmost Rinds of the _Clappes_ with their Teeth, and breaking the hard Shell against their Elbows, they pull out the Kernel, and eat the same. Whatever Flesh-meat they eat, they never throughly boyl or roast it, but make it onely just warm. They sleep on the Ground upon Mats, and lay their Heads on a little woodden Cricket with four Feet. They take great pride in their Hair, and those that have not long Hair of their own, use Perukes. _Tasman_ steering his Course towards the high Coast that lay before this Island, was follow’d by several small Vessels from the adjacent Shore, of which some carry’d a Bough of _Clappes_ or _Pisang_, with white Veins at the ends; but seeing the Ships Sail from them, they threw the same overboard. _Tasman_ standing Westerly, discover’d three Isles, near the last whereof the Sea broke exceedingly, which the _Hollanders_ not without great danger had approached in the Night: after which they discover’d to Leeward of them, a high Coast, which extended it self a great way, but the Sea went so rough, that they durst not venture near the Land; besides, the Sea went very high on a Bank, first ten, then five, three and a half, and again ten, fourteen, and seven Fathom deep; and oftentimes a Man might see the Ground, insomuch that they kept out the Boats belonging to the _Hemskerk_, which was in most danger, to carry them aboard of the _Sea-Cock_, if the first should chance to split. Lastly, getting over the Bank, they saw very high Land to Windward, and many hilly Isles to Leeward; the Sea also was full of blind Rocks and Shelves, so that they were in danger every hour, and the rather, because the Wind blew hard every day; yet at last losing sight of Land, they steer’d their Course Westerly in five Degrees Southward of the _Line_, towards _New Guinee_. On the two and twentieth of _March_ they discover’d low Land full of Woods of tall Trees, surrounded with a company of Isles, against some of which the Sea brake with great violence, insomuch that they were again in great danger, especially when they were got amongst eighteen Isles, between which the Water being shallow, and the Current running very strongly, drove the Ships towards the Shore: Whilest they were Tacking to and again to get beyond the Shelves, a little Vessel, carrying a great Weathercock on her Star-board, came from the Shore, Row’d by seven Men, who sat on Boards which lay over the same; they were of a brown Complexion, onely girt about with a hairy Girdle, made fast on the top of their Heads; under their Feet they also wore something in stead of Shoes, about their Necks hung Flowers, and their Bodies were Painted black: Among the seven, one who was very fat, and whose Head was adorn’d with two Feathers, stood up and proffer’d the Seamen two _Clappes_, in return whereof _Tasman_ gave them a Box of Nails and a piece of Sail-cloth, which sinking under Water, an aged Man div’d for the same, and bringing it up, gave it to his six Companions, who made no shew of thankfulness. Their Arms consisted in Bowes and Arrows. Their _Clappes_ they call’d _Anieuw_, as the other Islanders had done. Sailing from hence, they discover’d two low Islands full of Trees; and three Leagues from them, on their Star-board, a high Coast, and on the other side a great Island, whither they drove with a small Gale; approaching the same, two very small Boats came towards the _Hemskerk_; the biggest of the two carry’d six Men, and the least three, all of them very deform’d; they went stark naked, onely their Yards were ty’d up with a String on their Bellies, and about their Arms hung Chains of Mother-of-Pearl; they were Coal-black, onely red about the Mouth, which redness was occasion’d by the chewing of _Pisang_; in their Hair stuck woodden Combs, and on their Foreheads green Leaves; but in each Boat was one who had a bruised Reed made fast in his Neck like a Plume; the biggest Vessel was Painted with strange Shapes of Men and Beasts; they us’d red Bowes and Arrows, and having call’d to the Seamen, they Row’d back again to the Shore; which _Tasman_ left a Stern of him, and ran between the Main Coast (by all suppos’d to be _New Guinee_) and several great Islands, that lay scatter’d along before the Main Coast; from whence came four small Boats, adorn’d with Imagery like Serpents, but kept without Gun-shot from the Ships; at last one leaping overboard, swam to the smallest Boat, out of which one swam back in his stead to the other, and afterwards came to the _Hemskerks_ side; he was a black Man, wore Leaves before his Privities, and Armlets about his Elbows; through the Gristle of his Nose stuck a white Bone Bodkin, sharp at the ends, and of a Fingers length, and about his Neck a String full of Cockle-shells. _Tasman_ Sailing on along the Main Coast, met with eighteen Boats more, the Rowers whereof laid their Oars upon their Heads, and not without strange Gestures call’d aloud, and invited the _Hollanders_ to come ashore: On the Sterns and Heads of these Boats were likewise divers Shapes Painted, upon a white Ground; in some were two, and in others three, four, and five Men; eight of them going into the _Hollanders_ Boats, were made Drunk with _Arrack_. These _Southlanders_ went stark naked, some onely covering their secret Parts with Leaves; their Skins were black, onely on their Foreheads they drew a red Stroke, which reach’d to their Ears; their brown curl’d Hair was by some colour’d grey, by some red, some let it hang loose over their Sholdiers, others ty’d the same in a Tuft on their Crown, cover’d with a Cap of _Pisang_ Leaves, others wore their Hair scarce two Fingers long, and through the Gristle of their Nose, a piece of Cane or Quill, and a broad Beard without Mustacho’s; they had nothing to barter but large Snail-shells, on which they made a strange noise; and whatsoe’re they receiv’d, they first smell’d on it like Dogs: they fancy’d not Nails, as all the other _Southlanders_ had done. Their manner of Fishing was thus: They ty’d several half _Clappes_-shells, made fast like a Chain, to a long Reed, shook the same to and again on the Water, to gather the Fish together. In the Boats lay Planks of an oval fashion, which by Ropes ty’d in the middle they held before them in stead of Shields. When these _Southlanders_ went from the Ships, one of them threatned to beat the Seamen, shaking his great Club at them; whereupon they all Row’d with great speed to the Shore, whilest one in every Boat knockt with a Staff against the sides, just as if they had beat an Alarm. Amongst them one had barter’d for an old Doublet, with which he shew’d many antick Tricks, putting it on the wrong way, sometimes on his Head, then his Feet into the two Arm-holes, and anon the Button-holes behind on his Back. The Ships Sailing from hence, ran along a broken Coast, and on the twelfth of _April_ were so terribly shaken by an Earthquake, which lasted an hour and a half, that they seem’d shivering to pieces in the Water, as if they had ran against a Rock, notwithstanding they could not fathom Ground with their longest Line. Somewhat farther they discover’d a burning Mountain on an Island, between which and the Main (on which stood also a very high Mountain) they steering their Course, came into a white Water, mov’d by a strong River from the Continent; and coming to an Anchor before the Island _Jamna_, they saw the Isles _Moa_ and _Arimoa_ before them. The _Jamneans_ calling _New Guinee_ by the Name of _Belah_, inform’d the _Hollanders_, that they Warr’d continually with the Inhabitants thereof. These People being also Coal-black, some of them had loose curl’d Hair, hanging down over their Shoulders in long Braids, and others had onely two thick Locks, which cover’d their Ears; all of them wore four Feathers on their Heads: the Men pull’d out their Beards, and hung a great Bone Ring through their Ears, at which also hung a Shell like a Spur; most of them had red Roses ty’d about their Heads, and a Necklace of Hogs Teeth about their Necks; under their Navels they wore Girdles, a handful and a half broad, and about their Wastes Strings full of Shells, or Sea-Cockles, to which a small Lappet was ty’d, and hung down before their Privities; but because it was but two Fingers broad, and mov’d to an again by the Wind, their Nakedness appear’d to those that took notice thereof; through the Gristle of their Noses they wore a Hogs Tooth, or the Splinter of a Cane. Upon the Stern of their small Boats was the Shape of a little Lyon. One of these Islanders imitated the _Hollanders_ when they spoke, endeavoring to repeat their words after them, and therefore was call’d _Parrot_. _Tasman_ Sailing from hence to _Moa_, came to an Anchor before the Coast, ten Leagues beyond _Jamna_, where a great Boat, carrying seventeen Men, coming near the Ship, let flie a great many Arrows at the Seamen; but the next Morning being better reconcil’d, they came aboard, where the Chirurgeon of the Ship gave a Cap to one of the _Jamneans_, who, as a testimony of his thankfulness for the Present, requested him to sit down; which done, he began to braid his Hair from his Forehead to his Neck, tying the same with a String. _Tasman_ weighing Anchor, Sail’d between _New Guinee_ and the Island _Insou_, having got nothing but a few _Jamnean_ words from the Islanders, who call’d a Bone, _Vertilia_; a Hog, _Paro_; a Knife, _Sapera_; Beads, _Sassera_; a Nail, _Tortor_; Sleep, _Moeni_; and a Rat, _Asphoo_. So steering his Course along _Arimoa_, which is both higher and larger than the neighboring _Amoa_, and resembles a Seaman’s Cap, he left _New Guinee_ a Stern of him, and Steering on Northerly, Sail’d by _Schoutes-Island_, where eight large Boats came within Gun-shot of him, each of which had on each side a Wing, under which sat four Rowers, two and two together, with their Feet hanging in the Water; at their approaching near the Ship they put out a long Pole, with a white Flag upon it; whereupon _Tasman_ also commanded his white Ensign to be put forth, and threw a String of Beads, ty’d to a piece of Wood, out of his Cabbin Window; which the _Southlanders_ had no sooner taken up, but in testimony of thankfulness they all broke their Arrows over their Heads, and kept near the sides of the Ship, till such time as the Boatswain thereof sounded a Trumpet, upon the hearing of which they all Row’d away with as much speed as they could possibly. These People were of a sallow Complexion; they broke their Arrows with great Ceremony; for first they pointed with them towards the Skie, then put them into the Water, and breaking each Arrow in two pieces on their Heads, they threw one over the Larboard, and the other over the Starboard; he that broke the Arrow, made a long Speech to the _Hollanders_, who took the same for an Oath of their Fidelity toward them. In every one of these Boats were twenty eight or thirty Men. [Sidenote: _Tasman_’s farther Voyage into _New Guinee_.] _Tasman_ prosecuting his Voyage farther, discover’d the following day another Island, and a crooked Arm of _New Guinee_, near which he judg’d might be an Opening betwixt _New Guinee_ and _Gilolo_; then leaving on his Starboard a great many blind Cliffs, dangerous Shelves, and uneven Grounds, he cast Anchor near a Rock, which at high Water was overflow’d. A Boat coming near the Ship, in which were six Men, whose long Hair hung down their Backs, one of them amongst the rest standing up, call’d to the _Hollanders_ in the _Ternaren_ Language, saying, _What People?_ to which a Seaman, who understood and spake the said Language, answer’d, _Spaniards_: whereupon he ask’d, _From what Countrey, and whither bound?_ to which he was answer’d, _From Moa to Ternata_: The _Southlander_ hereupon reply’d, _You are Deceivers, the Ship is not Spanish, but Holland make_; whereupon _Tasman_ caus’d the Prince of _Orange_’s Flag to be put out, which the _Southlander_ no sooner saw, but he cry’d, _It appears by your Flags that you are Hollanders, who are always more welcom to us than Spaniards_: However, though the Seaman acknowledg’d his mistake, in saying they were _Spaniards_; yet the _Southlanders_ would not stay within shot of them, but at their Rowing away cry’d aloud, _Here is abundance of Pisang, Clappes, Potato’s, Sugar-Canes, and other Fruits on Shore_. From hence _Tasman_ Sail’d Northerly between many Isles, and a Channel that separates _New Guinee_ from _Gilolo_, by _Cerani_, _Manipe_, _Bolao_, and _Burro_, to a narrow Opening, where _Pangesane_ being on his Larboard, rose with exceeding high Rocks, as _Botton_ on the Starboard. These Rocks are most of them overgrown with Trees and Brambles. In the middle of this Channel also lies a Rock, for its shape call’d _A Galley_, by which _Tasman_ Sailing, bent his Course homeward, and at last, on the fifteenth of _June_, Anno 1643. cast Anchor before _Batavia_. [Illustration] CHAP. V. Terra Borealis, or The Artick Region. Having spoken something of the _Terra Australis Incognita_, or _Unknown South-Land_, there remains something to be said of the opposite part, namely, the _Terra Borealis_, or the _Artick Region_; which is call’d _Incognita_ in like manner as the _Terra Australis_, in regard, though very much, as well of the one as of the other, hath been search’d into, and in part discover’d by several Voyagers, yet doubtless there is a very vast Tract of Land, in the _Artick Region_ especially (if it be not rather Sea,) which is altogether unknown, and those parts which have been discover’d, as _Groenland_, _Iseland_, _Nova Zembla_, _Spilbergen_, _Hudson’s Straights_ and _Bay_, &c. so imperfectly known, that they may well deserve the Title of _Unknown_. The several parts of this _Artick Region_ are, 1. _Terra Subpolaris Incognita_, or that part which lies directly under the _Pole_, and is otherwise call’d _Orbis Arcticus_. 2. _Groenland._ 3. _Spilbergen_, or _Nieuland_. 5. _Iseland._ 6. _Nova Zembla._ [Sidenote: A Description of _Terra Subpolaris_.] The _Terra Subpolaris_ is describ’d by a certain Seaman of _Bosleduc_, to be a great black Rock, about thirty five Leagues in compass, and of an extraordinary heighth; through the Land adjoyning to which the Sea violently breaking, makes four great and violent _Euripi_, or Whirlpools, whose Waters driving Northward with so forcible a Stream, that no Ship, though carry’d by never so strong a Gale, is able to stem the Current, are at last swallow’d up in the Earth. It is also reported, that between two of these _Euripi_, namely that made by the _Scythick_ Ocean, and that on the back side of _Groenland_, there lieth an Island Northward of _Lappia_ and _Biarmia_, inhabited by _Pygmies_. Much more to this purpose is related of the _Subpolar_ Region, but since it is very improbable that any one could come so near as to make any discovery thereof, to say more of this Matter, would be but to insist upon things favoring more of Fables than Reality. [Sidenote: Bounds and Situation of _Groenland_.] _Groenland_ is that part of _Terra Septentrionalis_, which winds about from South to East, and decline Northward from Cape _Faruel_, in the _Deucaledonian_ Sea; however, _Groenland_ hath been generally taken for an Island; yet many late Navigators think it joyns with the Continent of _Tartary_, and others leave it in doubt whether it be Island or Continent: It is bounded towards the East with the _Deucaledonian_ Ocean; towards the West, with _Hudson’s Straights_ and _Bay_, which separate it from _America_; towards the North its Bounds are altogether unknown, and is not without reason suppos’d to be the utmost part of the World towards the _North Pole_. There are who believe it to be one Continent with _America_, and that upon this ground, because several who have attempted to pass through the _Straight_ commonly call’d _The Straight of Davis_, into the _East-Indies_, affirm, that they found it to be a Gulph; but one Captain _John Monk_, who was also a great Undertaker in the North-West Passage through this _Straight_, or _Gulf of Davis_, alledges great Probabilities of this Lands being divided by Sea from the Continent of _America_. [Sidenote: The Topography of _Groenland_ from the _Danish_ and _Iseland_ Chronicles.] This Countrey hath anciently been divided into two Regions, _East-Groenland_ and _West-Groenland_; answerable to which Division _Errick_, surnam’d _The Ruddy_, the Son of _Torvalde_, is reported by the _Danish_ Chronicle to have built two Forts or Lodges, _Ostrebug_ and _Westrebug_, in the Eastern part. The first Planters of _Christianity_ built the City _Garde_, which became, as the said Chronicle mentions, a City of great Repute and Traffick, and not long after, the Town _Albe_, and towards the Sea-Coast, a Monastery, dedicated to _St. Thomas_. The City _Garde_ was a Bishop’s See, to which belong’d a Cathedral Church, by the Title of _St. Nicholas_, built in the same City, though a certain _Iseland_ Chronicle makes mention of the Church of _Strosnes_, as the chief Metropolitan and Bishop’s See of _Groenland_. The Bishop assisted oftentimes in the Assembly of the _Estates_ of _Denmark_, and held of the Bishop of _Nidrosia_ or _Drunthen_ in _Norway_, as the Temporal _Estate_ of _Groenland_ held of the Crown of _Norway_, the _Norwegians_ being the onely known Planters of this Countrey, deriving their Original from the aforesaid _Errick_, according to the testimony of _Mr. Vormius_, and also of _Angrimus Jonas_, in his _Specimen Islandicum_, and the Vice-Roy of _Norway_, the _Nomophylax_ (as the said _Angrimus_ calls him,) or Sovereign Judge of the Countrey. The Inhabitants of _Westreburg_, or the Western Coast of _Groenland_, are by some call’d _Skreglinguers_. According to the _Iseland_ Chronicle, the Towns and Places of chief note are _Skageford_, in the most Eastern part; a little farther West the Port of _Funchebuder_, so call’d from a Page of _St. Olaus_ _King_ of _Norway_, who together with several others were cast away upon that place; a little higher, the _Roansen_, full of white Bears, and other wild Beasts. In the Western Coast, _Kindelfiord_, an Arm of the Sea; on the right Shore whereof stands _Korsekirk_, _i. e._ a Church built cross-ways; also the Town _Vandalebug_, and not far off a Monastery, dedicated to _St. Olaus_ and _St. Augustine_; the next Place is _Rumpesinfiord_, where there is a religious Convent, and divers little Islands, in which are Springs of Water, warm in the winter, and temperate in the Summer, which are accounted Medicinal and of great Vertue in the curing of divers Maladies; upon the same Coast lies _Etsnatsfiord_; between which and _Rumpesinfiord_ is the Palace _Fos_, and a great Church, dedicated to _St. Nicholas_; near the Promontory _Clining_ is another great House call’d _Daller_, and beyond _Eynatsfiord_, a great Island denominated _Reynatsen_, from the abundance of Rein-Deer which breed there: In the same Island is a Quarry of the Stone _Talguestin_, not consumable by Fire, and yet soft enough to be cut into any form, insomuch that Vessels have been made of it, containing twelve Tun. More Westerly lies the Island _Langen_, and another Royal House call’d _Hellestad_, then _Erricksfford_, another Arm of the Sea, and at the Entrance thereof, the Island _Herrieven_, part whereof belongs to the _Dome_, or Cathedral, and the other part to the Church of _Dunes_, the principal Church of _Groenland_, next to the Cathedral. North-West from _Erricksfiord_ is _Midfiord_, and farther Northward, _Bondeford_; near which are several little Isles and Ports. Between _Ostrebug_ and _Westrebug_ is a large Desart, altogether uninhabited. This Description of the Countrey, Extracted from the _Iseland_ Chronicle, is look’d upon by a late _French_ Writer of note, as the most particular and faithful; however, the _Danish_ Chronicle differs in many things, and amongst others in this, that not the hundredth part of _Groenland_ is possess’d by the _Norwegians_, but that there inhabit several different sorts of People, of different Fashions and Governments, altogether unknown to the _Norwegians_. [Sidenote: Temperature of _Groenland_.] _Groenland_, notwithstanding its Northerly Situation, is reported to be a Countrey not unfertile of Corn, and other Productions of the Earth; and in respect of its verdant Aspect at some Seasons of the Year, above the rest of those _Septentrional_ Regions, it is concluded to have merited the Name of _Groenland_, i.e. _Greenland_; nay, so great is the Heat that is said to be there during the Moneths of _June_, _July_, and _August_, by reason of the reverberation of the Sun-beams from the Rocks, that many times there is but six Weeks space betwixt Seed-time and Harvest. [Sidenote: What sort of Animals breed there.] The Beasts, which are said to breed here in great numbers, are Horses, Deer, Foxes, Hares, Bears, both black and white, common Wolves, and a sort of Beast between a Deer and a Wolf, besides great store of Beavers and Martins, as the _Iseland_ Chronicle testifies, whose Furr in fineness may compare with the Sables of _Russia_. There are also Gerfalcons in abundance, both white and grey, of so delicate a kind, that they were in ancient times sent to the Kings of _Denmark_ as Presents of great rarity. The Seas about _Greenland_ abound in very many sorts of Fish, as Sea-Wolves, Sea-Dogs, Sea-Calves, and above all, incredible numbers of Whales of a vast bigness. [Sidenote: Strange kind of Horn found there.] But the most remarkable Commodity of this Countrey, is a kind of Horn, commonly call’d the _Licornes_, or _Unicorns-Horn_, which is found there in great quantities, and great store of it is to be seen in _Denmark_, some whole, some in great pieces, sometimes onely the Ends or Stumps; but since it appears very different from all other kind of Horn, there is great Question made amongst Naturalists, whether it be Horn or Tooth? and if Horn, whether the Horn of a Beast or Fish? but it is discover’d of late to be the Horn, or rather Tusk of a certain Fish, which the Islanders call _Narhual_, being indeed a kind of Whale, as the Name seems to imply; signifying a Whale which feeds upon Carcases. [Sidenote: The chief Voyagers thither.] This Countrey is call’d by the Natives, _Secanunga_; who was the first Discoverer thereof is not certainly known, but the first chief Voyagers thither were, of the _Dutch_, _William Barents_, or _Barentson_, of _Amsterdam_, who set forth towards those Parts in the Year 1594. and before him, _Dithmar Blefkens_, in the Year 1563. of the _English_, Mr. _James Hall_, who set out from _Copenhagen_ in _Denmark_, Anno 1605. and in a second Voyage was slain by a Salvage of the Countrey. [Sidenote: The Coastings, Havens, and Creeks of _Groenland_.] The Coastings, Courses, Havens and Creeks of _Groenland_, according as _Barentson_ receiv’d an Account of them from _Iver Boty_, a _Groenlander_ written in the _Norsh_ Language, as it is call’d, are as followeth: From _Stad_ in _Norway_, to _Hornness_, the East part of _Groenland_, it is seven days Sailing. Between _Iseland_ and _Groenland_ lieth a Riff call’d _Gombornse-skare_, the Ice lying upon which, hindreth the Passage. Those that Sail from _Bergen_ in _Norway_ South of _Rokeness_ in _Iseland_, come under _Swafster_, a Promontory, or high Land in the East part of _Groenland_, and within sight of the high Mount _Whitsark_; between which and _Groenland_ lieth a Headland, call’d _Hernoldus Hook_, not far from _Sound-Haven_, formerly much frequented by the _Norway_ Merchants. Those that Sail from _Iseland_ to _Groenland_, Steer to _Snoffness_, West of _Rokeness_, and after South-West. East of _Hernoldus Hook_ lieth the Village of _Skagenford_, the most Easterly Village of the Island; East of _Skagenford_, the Haven _Bearford_, inaccessible by Ships, by reason of a great Riff lying at the Mouth thereof. This Place is chiefly remarkable for the Whale-fishing, the Whales upon the going back of the Tide running into a great _Swalth_, as they call it, which is in the Haven. East of _Bearford_ is the Haven call’d _Allabong Sound_, full of little Isles. East from the Icy Mountain, the aforemention’d Haven _Fendobothes_. Farther East is the Highland _Corse Hought_, where they Hunt white Bears. West from _Hernoldus Hook_ is the Village _Codosford_, and hard by the Sea-Coast, a fair Church, which we conceive to be the same with _Korsekirk_ above spoken of, as _Codosford_ may also probably be the same with _Kindelfiord_. A little farther West lieth the _Boy_, or Town of _Wartsdale_ (for in the _Norsh_ Language _Boy_ signifies a Town,) belonging to _Petresuik_, or _Peterswike_ Church: Near this _Boy_ or Town standeth a Cloyster, or Abbey of Canons Regular, dedicated to _St. Olafe_ and _St. Augustine_. Next to _Codosford_ is _Rompnesford_, the same questionless with the above-mention’d _Rumpesinfiord_, where there is a Cloyster of Nuns of the Order of _St. Benedict_: In this Ford lie many small Isles. Between _Rompness_ and the next Sound lieth a great Garden call’d _Vose_, belonging to the King of the Countrey, as also _St. Nicholas_ Church before mention’d. At the entrance into _Emnestnesford_ is the Inlet _Southwoderswike_, and somewhat higher on the same side, the little Cape _Bloming_, beyond the Inlet _Granwike_; above that, the Garden call’d _Daleth_, belonging to the Cathedral Church; and on the right-hand to those that Sail out of the said Sound, a great Wood belonging to the same Church, where they feed their Oxen, Kine, and Horses. The Highland lying by _Emestnesford_, is call’d _The Ramas Hayth_, from the Rain-Deer which use to be there Hunted: And hereabouts is that sort of Stone of which they make large Fats or Cisterns, as hath been before intimated; it is by some call’d the _Zevell-Stone_, being a sort of Marble, or (as some will have it) Load-stone, of all colours. West from this lieth another Highland, call’d _Long-Highland_. The next Sound is call’d _Swalterford_, having a Church belonging to it of the same Name, and where there is also a Garden belonging to the King, call’d _St. Hentelstad_. Next to that lieth _Erricksford_, and at the entrance thereof the Highland _Erricks Hought_, belonging to _Deverskirk_, the first Parochial Church in _Groenland_. North-West from _Erricksford_, is _Megdenford_. Farther out is a Church call’d _Scogelkirk_; and farther in the Sound, _Leadenkirk_. Beyond _Erricksford_ is another Ford or Sound, by the Name of _Fossa_, belonging to the Cathedral Church; and to the North of it, two Villages, _Ever-boy_ and _Forther-boy_. From thence farther North lieth _Bredaford_; and after that _Lormontford_; and from thence Westward, _Icedeep_. To the North of the _Westland_ lieth a spacious Wilderness, call’d _Hemel Hatsfelt_, and Edg’d with massie Rocks and Cliffs towards the Sea side; beyond which the Sea is innavigable, by reason of the many _Swalgen_, or Whirlpools thereabouts. In _Groenland_ there are divers Hills, wherein are Silver-Mines, multitudes of white Bears, with red Patches on their Heads; also white Hawks, and all sorts of Fish. There are moreover in the Countrey divers Rivers, frozen up for the most part of the Year, and cover’d with Ice; yet it is generally affirm’d, that it is not so cold there as in _Norway_ or _Iseland_. On the Hills are said to grow Acorns and Nuts, very well tasted, and as big as Apples; also as good Wheat as is commonly produc’d in other Parts. [Sidenote: An Account of _Groenland_ from _Dithmar Blefkens_ his _Journal_.] In the _Journal_ of _Dithmar Blefkens_’s Voyage, mention is made of a certain blind Monk, brought up in the Monastery of _St. Thomas_, who reported several memorable things concerning this Countrey, as that it was call’d _Groenland_ antiphrastically, or by contrariety of Speech, as appearing seldom or never green; and that it abounded with Bears and white Foxes, and was not without Pygmies and Unicorns, which never appear’d till after the Sun was entred into _Aries_; that in the said Monastery of _St. Thomas_ there was a Fountain of scalding Water, which was convey’d through Pipes of Stones to the Monks several Cells, and serv’d them not onely for Stoves, but for the dressing of their Meat, which was as well boyl’d by means of this Water, as if it had been over a real Fire, and that the Walls of the Monastery were made of a kind of Pumice-stone, upon which if Water were pour’d, it would produce a slimy Matter, commonly us’d in stead of Lime for Mortar, like the Stone of Mount _Hecla_ in _Iseland_; that two of these Pygmies, a Male and a Female, were kept by the Abbot, and were both endu’d with perfect humane Shape, and overgrown with Hair, even to the outermost Joynts of their Fingers, the Male especially, who had a Beard reaching down to his Knees, but that they seem’d wholly devoid of Reason and Understanding, nor had any distinct use of Speech, onely made a semblance of Hissing of the manner of Geese; lastly, he reported the duration of the Lives of these Creatures to be answerable to the shortness of their Stature; but that concerning their Wars with the Cranes, he had no other knowledge than by Tradition. [Sidenote: From Mr. _James Hall_’s Description.] The Description of _Groenland_ left by Mr. _James Hall_, renders it a high, mountainous, and craggy Region, sufficiently water’d with Rivers, and provided with good Harbors, of a Soil not unfertile in all places where he came, having between the Mountains fruitful Valleys and pleasant Plains, abounding with several sorts of Fowl, as Partridges, Pheasants, Sea-mews, Gulls, Crows, _&c._ but of Beasts, chiefly black Foxes, and (as was conjectur’d by the plenty of Harts-horns found about their Tents) Rein-Deer, yet not destitute of other Beasts, the _Vestigium_ of one whereof was found to be not less than eight Inches over. As for the Manners and Customs of the Natives, they are by the said Description represented to be a kind of _Samoid_, or wandring People, still moving from place to place, warlike and active, using Slings and Darts with marvellous dexterity, of a brown Complexion for the most part, and of an indifferent Stature, eating their Meat either quite raw, or onely a little parboyl’d, Clothing themselves with the Skins of such Beasts, or other Creatures, as they kill, especially Seals, or some of the largest size of Fowls, which they Dress very smooth and soft, turning the Feather or Hair side outwards in Summer, and inward in Winter. Their Weapons Bowes, Slings, and Bone or Iron-headed Darts; their Religion Idolatrous, but chiefly Sun-Worship, as was gather’d from their manner of Accost, when any of the _English_ first approach’d them, for they us’d to point up to the Sun, as chief Author of their felicity, and then beat their Breasts, crying, _Iliont_, which seem’d to signifie as much as _I mean no harm_, and would not come near till those that met them did the like. Their Houses built of Whales Bones, and the Baulks thereof with Whales Ribs, and cover’d with Earth, but the best sort with Seal-Skins, having Vaults or Rooms under Ground, four-square, and two Yards deep in the Earth. Their manner of Burial, a Pile of Stones thrown over the Corps, being first wrapt up in Seal-Skins. [Sidenote: First Discovery of _Spilbergia_ or _Greenland_.] _Spilbergia_, so call’d by the _Hollanders_, from _Spilbergen_, whom probably they reckon to have been the first Discoverer of it, is the same that we vulgarly call _Greenland_, and which Sir _Hugh Willoughby_ (if not the first of all, yet at least the first of the _English_ that discover’d any thing of these Parts) nam’d _King James’s New-Land_. The said Sir _Hugh Willoughby_ set forth _Anno 1553._ in the _Bona Esperanza_, accompany’d with two Ships more, _viz._ the _Bonaventure_, _Richard Challoner_ Captain, and the _Bona Confidentia_, and after some time of Coasting up and down those Northern Seas, he Landed with his Company upon the Place, where staying a few days, he sent three Men three days Journey into the Countrey South-West, and three more as far full West, who all, after much hardship in their Travelling, return’d without having met any People by the Way, or seen the least appearance of any Habitation. Sailing hence back for _Lapland_, they were all frozen to death in the Haven _Arzina_. _Fotherby_’s Description of _Greenland_. A Description of _Greenland_ by one Mr. _Robert Fotherby_, represents the Nature of this Place contradictory to its Name, as before was observ’d of _Groenland_: “For certainly (saith he) no part of the World, yet known and discover’d, is less Green than this, both the Mountains and Low-lands being cover’d with Snow till the beginning of _June_. The Countrey, which is for the most part mountainous, bearing neither Grass nor Tree, save onely Heath or Ling, as it is call’d in the North parts of _England_, which grows upon the Moors or Heathy Grounds when the Snow begins to melt, and on which in Summer the Deer feed themselves fat in one Moneth; but how they live in the Winter, is a thing beyond any Man’s skill to comprehend, especially during the Sun’s absence under the Horizon, which in the Latitude of seventy seven Degrees continues from the eighteenth of _October_ to the fourth of _February_.” This Countrey is by many suppos’d never to have been inhabited by Men, yet not altogether uncapable of affording Habitation to such as would bring with them sufficient defensive Weapons against Hunger and Cold: For other Animals, it is found, by the testimony of those that have been upon the Place, not to be destitute; for besides Deer before mention’d, there have been seen Bears and Foxes; and of wild Fowl, _Cuthbert_ Ducks, Willocks, Stints, Sea-Pigeons, Sea-Parrots, Gulls, Noddies, _&c._ The Southermost part of _Greenland_, call’d _Point Look-out_, stands in seventy six Degrees and thirty Minutes. The West side of the Land was discover’d by the first Voyagers Northward as far as eighty Degrees and odd Minutes, and in that compass six or eight good Harbors for the Whale-fishing; the East side as far as seventy eight Degrees, with divers Islands, both great and small, yielding good Harbors, and store of Whales and Sea-Horses. [Sidenote: The Voyages of _Jonas Pool_ and others to _Greenland_.] In the Year 1610. _Jonas Pool_, Master of the _Amity_ fell in with this Land in _May_, and continu’d upon the Coast, discovering of Harbors, and killing of _Morses_, till _June_ following: and he is said to have been the first that gave this Countrey the Name of _Greenland_. The next year he set out again, accompany’d with _Thomas Edge_, Commander of the _Mary Margaret_; And since many other Voyages have been made as to a Place known, and a great Trade driven in catching of Whales, not without several Contests with the _Dutch_ and _Danes_, but nothing of late discover’d considerable more than in the first Voyages. The Harbors, Sounds and Coastings most taken notice of, are _Fair Foreland_, _Cape Cold_, _Black-Point_, _Horn-Sound_, _Knotty-Point_, _Bell-Sound_, _Lowness_, _Cross-Road_, _Deer-Sound_, _Fowl-Sound_, _Close-Cove_, _Gurnet-Nose_, _Ice-Sound_, and _Green-Haven_. [Sidenote: _Cherry-Island._] There are few that have Sail’d to _Greenland_, but make great mention of _Cherry Island_, so call’d, as having been first discover’d at the Charges of Sir _Francis Cherry_, an eminent Merchant; by others _Bear-Island_, from the multitude of Bears found there; it lies in the Latitude of seventy four Degrees, and is noted for store of Fowl, Foxes like Dogs, and upon the Coasts great store of Whales, Sea-Horses, and Morses: It is also said to be furnish’d with Lead-Mines, and Pits of Sea-Coal. [Sidenote: Situation and first Discovery of _Iseland_.] _Iseland_, so call’d from the continual Ice which is upon it, is a craggy mountainous Countrey; and not onely the Hills, but a great part of the Low-land cover’d with perpetual Snow: It is of a Form somewhat oblong, lying between the fifty fourth and fifty ninth Degree of Northern Latitude, having _Norway_ on the East, the _Orcades_ and _Scotland_ on the South, Grenland on the West, and the _Hyperborean_, or frozen Sea on the North. It is by _Olaus Magnus_ suppos’d to be twice as big as _Sicily_, that is to say, about a hundred Leagues in length. It is the most known, and most througly discover’d of all the Countreys of the _Artick Region_, and is said to have been first found out and peopled in the Year of our Lord 900. by certain of the Nobility of _East-Frisia_ in the Countrey of _Breme_, in the time of _Alebrand_, Bishop of that Countrey; but whether or no utterly unpeopled till that time, is a Question not easie to be determin’d, though in all probability so obvious a Place to be found out, could not lie so long totally uninhabited. Not long after several Colonies of _Norwegians_ Setled themselves, some in _Hitland_, some in _Ferow_, others (following the Example of these _Bremers_) in _Iseland_. The Countrey is full of Rocks and Stones, and (as is credibly reported) not a cultivated Field or Garden in the whole Island, and by consequence no sort of Corn, yet the People living without either Bread or Salt, are very strong, and of a good Complexion: Neither is there a Tree to be seen, except the Birch, which likewise grows but in one place, and exceeds not the heighth of a Man, by reason of the violence of the Winds; yet there is said to be great plenty of Butter, the Grass being so fat, that the Oxen are not suffer’d to stay long at a time in the Pastures for fear of bursting. Till of late there was neither Town, nor any thing that could be call’d a Village, in the whole Island, but stragling Cottages here and there, not above three or four together in a place, most by the Sea side for the convenience of Fishing; they were built pretty deep in the Ground, but artificially fram’d of Whales Bones, with Seats, Benches, and other Utensils of the same; now sometimes they use Fir to the same purpose, which is cast upon the Coast by the force of the Sea from _Tartary_ or elsewhere. For want of Vessels, they lay their Butter in Heaps in the Corners of their Houses like Mortar. In the Winter, wanting Fodder, they feed their Cattel with Fish. Besides these Cattel, which are Kine without Horns, Horses onely fit for carrying of Burthens, and very large Sheep, there are store of white Foxes, and huge Bears of the same colour, and a sort of rough Dogs, very well known, and frequent amongst us by the Name of _Shocks_, which the Islanders esteem not a little, and will part with their Children at a far easier rate: They keep neither Hogs nor Poultrey, for want of Grain to feed them. [Sidenote: Many Rivers in _Iseland_.] The Rivers belonging to this Island are many, and those not unpleasant, affording to the Inhabitants plenty of Fish, especially Sturgeon, Trouts, and Salmons; and one is especially remarkable for a Bridge made over it, which being the onely Bridge of the Countrey, is made of the great Bones of a Whale. The whole Island is one continu’d Desart, without any trodden Path or Road from one end to the other; so that all that have occasion to travel to any part thereof by Land, make use of the Compass, as if they were Voyaging by Sea. [Sidenote: Strange Fish on the Coast of _Iseland_.] The Coast of _Iseland_ hath many strange and monstrous Fish worth observation, as first the _Orca_, which though nothing near so big as the Whale, yet is able to be the death of it; for being of the shape of a Ship turn’d upside-down, and having sharp long Fins on its Back, it pricks the Belly of the Whale therewith till it kills. The next is the _Hackfall_, which is very fat, and about twelve Inches long. Then the Dog-Fish, which lifting up its Head out of the Sea, Barks, and letting forth its young ones, receives them into her Belly again, when they have sported a while in the Sea. Lastly, another Monster, of a most frightful shape, mention’d by _Olaus Magnus_, but not by any particular Name. [Sidenote: Strange Fountains.] In divers Parts of the Island are Fountains of scalding Water, which as soon as taken from the Fountain begins to cool, and when cold, hath a sulphury Substance swimming on the top. At the West end is a smoaky Fountain, very cold, and turning all that is cast into it into Stone. At the place upon the Sea call’d _Turlocks Haven_, are two Fountains of different quality, the one hot, the other cold, which by Pipes being brought together into one place, make a Bath of an excellent temperature, and of a medicinal Vertue. Not far from _Haven Halneford_ is a Cliff in a Rock of an unknown depth, and no Water to be discern’d by those that look down into it, but if a Stone be cast in, it shall make a noise for half an hour together, as if it were striking against a Brazen Vessel, and all this while the Water will be rising till it comes up to the brim, and then will be so long sinking again as the Stone was falling. [Sidenote: Mountains of _Iseland_.] There are also three Mountains in _Iseland_ not to be left unmention’d, the Mountain of the _Cross_, the Mountain _Snenelstockel_, and the Mountain _Hecla_; the two first are chiefly considerable for their wonderful heighth, and for the dreadful noise of Thunder which is heard on the top of them, when in the adjacent parts below, the Air is calm and clear; the third lying in the North of the Island, and not very high, is one of the most prodigious _Vulcans_ in the World, for the casting forth of Flames, black Ashes, and Pumice-Stones, insomuch that there is no possibility of Habitation within six Miles of it round about; and it is a receiv’d Opinion of the Inhabitants, that it is the place of Torment for the Souls of the Damned; from whence there hath risen such a company of strange Stories and Fables, that it would make up a Volume of it self to relate them. The occasion of the great Eruption of this Mountain is not without much reason imputed to the inflammation of the Sulphur, of which there are several Mines or Pits in the Countrey, though none of any sort of Metal. [Sidenote: First planting of _Christian Religion_ here.] _Waldemarus_, King of _Denmark_ and _Norway_, being consequently Master of this amongst the other _Norwegian_ Colonies, Planted the _Christian_ Religion in this Island in the Year of _Christ_ 1398. and Ordain’d two Bishops, one in _Schalholden_, in the East part, another in _Hollen_, in the West; and after the _Reformation_ was begun, _Christianus_, King of _Denmark_, took care to propagate the Reformed _Doctrine_ there, as well as in other parts of his Dominions; and to that end sent over a PRINTER thither, that the _BIBLE_, together with the Works of _Philip Melancthon_ and _Urbanus Regius_, might be publish’d in the Vulgar Tongue of the Countrey. But these Proceedings were mainly oppos’d by the Bishop of _Schalholden_, who animating the People to Rebellion, they slew the King’s Lieutenant: Whereupon the next Year _Paul Holfelt_, a Knight of the _Danish_ Order, being sent over with an Army, overthrew the Rebels, and taking off the chief Heads of the Rebellion, committed the Charge of the Government to another Nobleman of _Denmark_, whom he left upon the Place. But one _Tadde Bonde_, a great Man of the Countrey, meditating a Revolt, drew divers Persons of principal note into Conspiracy with him, and was advancing to a formidable Power, had not the Bishop given continual Intelligence of their Proceedings to the King’s Lieutenant, who thereupon employ’d Agents to the chief Accomplices of the Faction, and what with fair Means and threatnings so wrought with them, that they return’d to their Obedience, and forsook _Todde_, insomuch that he flying with a small Party, betook himself to a fastness at the Foot of _Heckelveld_, where being hemm’d in, those about him were slain, and he himself taken Prisoner; and because no Man to whose safe custody he was offer’d durst receive him, so much dreaded was his Power, one _Jonas_, a bold courageous Fellow, slew him with his own Hand, and thereby put an end to all farther Tumults and Seditions. [Sidenote: The People _Iseland_ addicted to Sorcery and Superstition.] So much have the People of this Island been ever addicted to Sorcerie and Superstition, that notwithstanding the Profession of _Christianity_, and the frequent Preaching against those Sins, especially since the _Reformation_, the generality of them are still wedded to many of those old diabolical Customs, which were practis’d there in time of _Paganism_; and amongst other things they are said to be serv’d, many of them, by Spirits, which constantly attend them, and as _Olaus Magnus_ writes of the _Finlanders_, they are oftentimes dealt with by Strangers, to sell them prosperous Winds for Money, and (doubtless by the help of the Devil) perform the same; as also on the contrary, they are said by their Enchantments to stop the Course of a Ship, and make it as it were immovable, though in the Stream of never so prosperous a Gale. They are a proud, haughty People, and for the most part endu’d with vast strength of Body; their Habit so promiscuous, that neither Sex can be distinguish’d by it. They are not onely forward to prostitute their Daughters to those _Germans_ that Trade with them at _Hafnefords_, but that Virgin who hath had to do with a _German_, shall be sure to be so much the more esteem’d and Courted. [Sidenote: Towns and Places of note.] The onely Towns and Buildings of note here, and those created but of late Ages, are 1. _Hafnefords_, a Haven Town, chiefly frequented by _Dutch_ Merchants for Traffick with the Natives. 2. _Bedstede_, the Residence of the Lord Lieutenant or Governor for the King of _Denmark_. 3. The Bishops See of _Halsar_, having four Monasteries belonging to it, _viz._ _Pingore_, _Remestede_, _Modor_, and _Monkeniere_. 4. The Bishops See of _Schalholt_, to which also doth belong four Monasteries, _viz._ _Vedey_, _Pernebar_, _Kirkebar_, and _Schirde_. [Sidenote: Their Place and manner of Judicature.] The Nobles of _Iseland_ are call’d _Bonden_; their _Justiciaries_ or Judges, being twelve in number, _Lochmaders_, that is, Men of Law or Justice, who are said to meet once a year on the twenty ninth of _June_, to administer Justice in a place ordain’d for that purpose in the midst of the Island, appearing like some feigned Paradice, so pleasant a place it is represented to be at that time of the year, being (as the Tradition goes) from a high burning Mountain like _Hecla_, consum’d to a Plain, and so environ’d with Rocks, that there was left but a small Passage for one at a time to enter. Here the Governor having first given the Charge, leaves the Trial of all Matters to the _Lochmaders_, who having diligently heard every Cause argued on both sides, withdraw for a while to Consult together, and then proceed to Sentence, the same Persons being both Jury and Judge; but if any Case of difficulty or scruple arise, they consult the Governor. [Sidenote: _Angrimus Jonas_’s Relation of _Iseland_.] _Angrimus Jonas_’s Relation of _Iseland_ differing much from what hath been deliver’d by _Blefkens_, is not to be omitted. He saith it was first discover’d by one _Naddocus_, a Pyrate, who going towards the _Farensian_ Islands, was cast by Tempest upon the Shore of _East-Iseland_, near the Mountain _Reidarfial_; and as he departed from the Coast, perceiving the tops of the highest Mountains cover’d with a very deep Snow, call’d the Island _Snælandia_, that is, _Snowy Countrey_. [Sidenote: _Gardarus_’s Voyage to _Iseland_.] Upon the fame of _Naddocus_’s Discovery, one _Gardarus_, the Son of _Suavarus_, a _Swede_, was desirous to make a Voyage thither, and arriving near the Eastern Shore, Winter’d in the Bay of _Skialfanda_, or _North-Island_, in the Year of our Lord 864. and call’d the Haven _Huscawick_, from the Houses or Wintering-places built there, as the next Haven to it was call’d _Nartarawick_, from _Natrare_, an eminent Mariner in this Expedition. _Gardarus_ returning home about the beginning of the Spring, call’d the Countrey from his own Name _Gardarsholm_. [Sidenote: _Flocco_’s Voyage to the same Place.] The next that follow’d his Example, was one _Flocco_, a famous Pyrate, whose Daughter _Geirhilda_ being drown’d upon the Coast of _Schetland_ (anciently _Hietland_,) gave the Name of _Geirhildarwata_ to the Sea thereabouts: Not having the use of the Mariners Compass, he made use of Ravens for the steering of his Course, and having sent forth two without success, by the guidance of the third he had sight of the Eastern side of the Island; and Steering Southward, he found a very wide Bay, between the Promontories _Renkanes_ and _Snæfesness_; which Bay, from _Faxa_ a _Scottish_ Mariner that accompany’d him, he nam’d _Faxaos_, that is, _The Mouth of Faxa_, though from its many Havens it came afterwards to be term’d _Hafnafiordur_. Sailing along the West side of the Island, he entred the Bay _Bredafiord_, and took up his Quarters at _Watnesfiordur_, a Haven in the Province _Bardostraund_ (for by these Names these Places came afterwards to be known:) Having stay’d here two Winters, he return’d back into _Norway_, and is said to have been the first that gave this Countrey the Name of _Iseland_, from the great quantities of Ice which fill’d the Seas thereabouts, he also gave it the Name of _Rafnaflock_, from the Ravens which serv’d him in stead of a Compass. [Sidenote: A Plantation setled in _Ise_ by _Ingulphus_ and _Hiorleifus_.] The last and most considerable Adventurer was _Ingulfus_, the Son of _Orn_, Duke of _Fyrdafilace_ in _Norway_, who, together with his Cousin _Hiorleifus_, that Marry’d his Sister _Helca_, being adjudg’d to Banishment by _Halsten_ (to the Award of whose Judgment they had submitted themselves) upon the slaughter of his two Brethren, _Holmsten_ and _Hersten_, (these three Brethren were the Sons of _Atlas_, one of the prime Noblemen of _Norway_) in a Quarrel, wherein _Halsten_ was chosen Umpire; and also detesting the Tyranny of _Haraldus Pulchricomus_, King of Norway, went over _Gonfaloniere_, or chief Leader of a great Colony of People, whom he rais’d for the setling of a Plantation in some foreign Countrey: Accompany’d with his Cousin _Hiorleifus_, he took Shipping for _Iseland_ in the Year of our Lord 854. having been over to visit it about four years before; he Landed at a Promontory on the South Shore, which from him took the Name of _Ingulfholde_, and at _Reicharwick_ setled his Habitation, while _Hiorleifus_ seated himself at the Promontory by him call’d _Hiorleifholda_, where he built two very large Houses, each being about a hundred and thirty Foot long; then he set himself to Manure and Till the Ground, employing in that Work ten Slaves, whom he brought with him for that purpose out of _Norway_; but it was not long ere they traiterously set upon him and slew him by an Ambuscade which they had laid for him; after which they betook themselves to certain little Isles, which were nam’d _Westmafyar_, where before they had well nestled themselves, the whole Race of them were rooted out by _Ingulphus_, in revenge of his Kinsman’s Death. After this the Island grew daily more and more populous by the coming over of new Families from _Norway_; so that at this day it is a Place not the least considerable belonging to the Kings of _Denmark_. The ancient Inhabitants of this Place (for it is to be suppos’d that there were People here before the coming over of _Ingulfus_) were call’d _Papæ_ or _Pappæ_, and the East side of the Island, _Papey_, which agrees very well with the Names of two little Islands on the Coast of _Scotland_, _Pappa_ and _Westrepappa_, from which many conjecture, as also from several Crosses and Bells found upon the Place, that there hath been in former Ages a resort of the _Irish_, and of the People of the North-West parts of _Scotland_. [Sidenote: The Division of _Iseland_.] The Eastern Bound of _Iseland_ is call’d _Austurhorn_; the Western, _Randesandur_; the Northern, _Langanes_; and the Southern, _Reicranes_. The Island being divided according to the four Quarters of the World, _North-Island_ is sever’d from _East-Island_ by the aforesaid Promontory of _Langanes_; from _West-Island_ by _Rutafiordur_ Bay; from _South-Island_, by vast and unpassable Desarts. Between _South-Island_ and _East-Island_ runneth the River _Jocolsu_, through the Desarts of _Solseimasande_. Between _South-Island_ and _West-Island_ a famous River nam’d _Albis_, which emptieth it self into the Bay of _Bargarfiord_. [Sidenote: _Schetland_ the _Thule_ of the Ancients.] ’Tis a vulgar Opinion, that this Island is the same which the Ancients call’d _Thule_; but upon consideration it will appear, that by the _Ultima Thule_ taken notice of by _Virgil_, _Claudian_, _Statius_, _Pythias Massiliensis_, _Pliny_, _Seneca_, _Solinus_, _Tacitus_, and others, is meant one of the _British_ Isles, amongst which were comprehended the Isles on the North of _Scotland_, as the _Orcades_, and some others, the utmost of which we call _Schetland_, and is very probable to be this _Ultima Thule_ of the Ancients. [Sidenote: _Nova Zembla_, when first discover’d.] _Nova Zembla_, lying under seventy six Degrees of Northern Latitude, and a hundred and twelve Degrees and twenty five Minutes of Longitude, and being reckon’d above two hundred Miles in length, was, together with the River _Puora_, and Straights of _Weygats_, discover’d, (and, as it is thought, first of all) by _Stephen Burrough_, who was sent out by the _Muscovia_ Company in the Year 1556. to find out a Way to _Cathay_ by the North-East. Afterwards one _Oliver Bunel_, a _Dutch_-man, mov’d with the hope of Gain, went from _Enkhuissen_ to _Pecora_; where (having first discover’d _Costinfarca_ in _Nova Zembla_) he lost all by Shipwrack. The _States-General_ nothing discourag’d with the little success of these two Voyagers, sent forth two Ships under the Command of _Hugo Linschot_, to the Straights of _Weygats_, and two others under _William Barrents_, who were to go directly Northwards for _Nova Zembla_: _Linschot_ went fifty Miles beyond the Straights, but the Northerly Winds and late Season of the year forc’d him to hasten back with all possible speed. _William Barents_ and his Company were necessitated in the Year 1596. being not able to get off, in regard the Ice increas’d upon them more and more, to take up their Winter Quarters there in a Cottage, which they made a shift to cast up for their present necessity, having much ado to defend themselves against the Bears, that continually assaulted them. [Sidenote: Description of the Countrey.] This Countrey is generally deliver’d to be a barren and desart Countrey, full of Wood indeed, but the Boughs as bare of Leaves, as the Ground of Grass; also very incommodious to be travell’d through, by reason of its desartness, and the danger of Bears, great fierce Foxes, and such like ravenous Beasts, which feed onely upon Flesh, and which are the onely Beasts this Countrey harbors. In a _Journal_ of Mr. _Henry Hudson_, there is to be found a much more favorable Description of the Countrey: “Generally (saith he) the Land of _Nova Zembla_ that we have seen, is to a Man’s Eye a pleasant Land, much Main High-land with no Snow on it, looking in some places green, and Deer feeding thereon, and the Hills partly cover’d with Snow, and partly bare.” It should seem to have been a receiv’d Opinion from the first Discovery of _Nova Zembla_, that it was inhabited by _Pygmies_, it being several times, in the _Journals_ of some Voyages, mention’d particularly by the Name of _The Land of Pygmies_, but upon what certain Ground cannot in the least be discover’d; for we find not from the _Russians_ (to whom the Place, by reason of its Vicinity, is probable to have been first known) any other Account of the Inhabitants, but that they are a People wholly destitute of civil Manners, and unlimited by Law or Religion, saving that they seem to give some kind of Adoration to the Sun, Moon, and North-star, and have some Qualities which speak them rational Creatures; whereas the _Pygmies_ (if there be any such Creatures) are thought to have nothing of Humane but their Shape onely. [Sidenote: _Willoughby-Island._] Besides _Nova Zembla_ there is not far from it another Island, known by the Name of _Willoughby-Island_, from Sir _Hugh Willoughby_, the first Discoverer; they both are of the Dominions of the _Czar_ of _Russia_. _Several Attempts for the discovery of the_ North-West Passage. What hath been discover’d of Sea in the North or South parts of the World, is of no less Consequence than what hath been discover’d of Land, and the _Straight_ of _Hudson_ Northward, is no less considerable than the _Straight_ of _Magellan_ South; we shall therefore compleat this Discourse of the _Artick Region_ with a brief Mention of what Capes, Bays, Sounds, &c. have been found out by those that have attempted to find a Passage by the North-West to the _East-Indies_. Not to insist upon the fabulous Stories of King _Arthur_’s first conquering _Ireland_, and then Sailing into the Northern Seas, and subduing _Scantia_, _Iseland_, _Groenland_, and (as the Story saith) many other Islands beyond _Norway_ even under the _Pole_, or of _Malgo_’s subduing _Ireland_, _Iseland_, the _Orcades_ and _Norway_, or _Octher_’s Reports to King _Alfred_ of his Voyages to the North-East parts beyond _Norway_, or the Voyages of the two famous _Venetian_ Brethren, _Nicolo_ and _Antonio Zeni_, or of _Marcus Paulus Venetus_, _Odoricus_ and _Vertomannus_; the first _English_-man we hear of, that made an Expedition into those Northern Seas, was Sir _Hugh Willoughby_, before taken notice of for the Discovery of _King James’s Newland_ and _Willoughby-Island_, in the Year of our Lord 1553. _Stephen Burroughs_ (as hath been intimated) discover’d amongst other Places, about the Year 1556. the _Straight_ of _Vaigats_. [Sidenote: _Queen Elizabeths Foreland._] [Sidenote: _Forbisher’s Straight._] In the Year 1576. Sir _Martin Forbisher_ setting forth with two Barques, after he had been out about five Weeks, had sight of a High-land, which he nam’d _Queen Elizabeths Foreland_: Thence Sailing more Northerly to the heighth of about sixty two Degrees, he descry’d a great Sea or Inlet, which he entred, and thence it took the Appellation of _Forbisher’s Straight_. About two years after proceeding to a farther discovery of it, he entred a good way into it, and took possession of the utmost Place he went to for Queen _Elizabeth_, who thereupon gave it the Name of _Meta Incognita_. _Anno 1580._ _Arthur Pett_ and _Charles Jackman_ were sent out by the _Russian_ Company, to make a Discovery of the River _Ob_, and passing the _Straight_ of _Waigats_, took particular observation of the Islands and Places there, but not being able to pass much farther, by reason of the Ice, towards the latter end of the year they return’d. [Sidenote: _Davis’s Straight._] In prosecution of this Discovery to the North-West, Captain _John Davis_ of _Sandruge_ in _Devonshire_, made three Voyages; his first _Anno 1585._ his second, 1587. in which he met with many strange Adventures; but the main thing that accru’d from these Voyages, was the finding of a mighty Through-let between vast and desart Islands, to which his Name gave the Appellation of _Fretum Davis_, or _Davis’s Straight_. The next that went upon this Design was Captain _George Weymouth_, who from the Year 1585 to 1602 made several Expeditions, which produc’d large Relations of strange Accidents that befell them, but little of Discovery farther than what had been made before. [Sidenote: _Cape Christianus._] Mr. _James Hall_, very noted for his Voyages to _Groenland_, (which before was by Captain _Davis_ call’d _Desolation_) at his falling in with that Place nam’d a Head-land from the then King of _Denmark_, _Cape Christianus_, which some think to be no other than _Cape Farewel_. _Anno 1606._ Mr. _John Knight_ was set out by the King of _Denmark_, of the Passages of whole Voyage little or nothing memorable is recorded. [Sidenote: _Hudson’s Straight and Bay._] The next and most famous Attempter in the discovery of the _North-West Passage_, was _Henry Hudson_, who is said to have discover’d farther Northward to the _Pole_ than any before him. From the Year 1607 to 1610 he made several Voyages, being set out by Sir _Thomas Smith_, Sir _Dudley Diggs_, and Mr. _John Wostenholm_, with others that were his great Friends, and Advancers of such publick Designs. In his last Voyage the Isles of _Gods Mercy_, _Prince Henry’s Foreland_, _King James’s Cape_, _Queen Annes Cape_, _Diggs’s Island_, _Cape Wostenholm_, _The King’s Foreland_, _Mount Charles_, _Cape Salisbury_, &c. were first taken notice of and nam’d, and, which were his principal Discoveries, and therefore worthily retaining his Name, _Hudson’s Straight and Bay_; but in his return homeward he was set upon in his Cabbin by one _Green_, _Wilson_, and others of their Conspiracy, and together with his Son _John Hudson_, _Tho. Widdows_, _Arn. Ludlow_, _Sidrach Faner_, and two or three more, was put over into a small Shallop, in which they were forc’d to seek their Fortune, and in all likelihood perish’d, for they were never heard of after. Not long after _Green_ going on Shore upon a strange Island, was shot from an Ambuscade of Salvages into the Heart; the like End had _Wilson_, and three more of the Conspirators dy’d of their mortal Wounds, the rest with much ado got home in a very sick and weak Condition, through the Hardships they had sustain’d, and want of Provisions. There was also another _Hudson_, who _Anno 1608._ went to the heighth of eighty one Degrees, and gave Names to certain Places, which continue to this day, as _Whale-Bay_, _Hackluit’s Headland_, and _Hudson’s Touches_. [Sidenote: _Button’s Bay._] By the Assistance of Prince _Henry_, and those other Noble Persons above mention’d, Captain _Thomas Button_ set out in the Year 1612. and is said to have pass’d _Hudson’s Straight_, and leaving _Hudson’s Bay_ to the South, to have Sail’d two hundred Leagues South-Westward over a Sea above eighty Fathoms deep, which at length he discover’d to be another great Bay, since call’d _Button’s Bay_; He is said also to have discover’d a great Continent, which he call’d _New Wales_. [Sidenote: _Baffin’s Bay._] Several other Voyagers there were in this great Attempt of the _North-West Passage_, as Captain _Gibbons_, _Robert Bylot_, _William Baffins_, and Captain _William Hawkridge_, who though they all came short of the main Enterprize, yet every one found out some new Cape, Bay, or Promontory, or open’d a farther Passage than had been before, as _Bylot_ made known _Cape Comfort_; _Baffin_, the Inlet call’d from him _Baffins Bay_, as also Sir _James Lancaster’s Sound_; _Hawkridge_, a farther Passage into _Lumly_’s Inlet. From the Year 1616. to 1631. the Business slept, and then a Voyage was undertaken by Captain _Luke Fox_, who at his Return gave very good hopes and encouragement, that the Work, so long in prosecution, was not impossible to be effected; nevertheless, by reason of the late troublesom Times it was again wholly laid aside for almost forty years; but in the Year 1668. several Persons of Honor undertook to revive the Work, and so that purpose furnish’d out two Ships, which set forth in _June_, and return’d about the beginning of _October_ the Year following, giving so satisfactory an Account of their Voyage, that in the Year 1670. the same Adventurers thought fit to send out two Ships more, so furnish’d, as to endure a Wintering there, which they did, with greater hopes than ever of finding out the _North-West Passage_, besides a handsom Cargo of rich Furrs, which made it more than a saving Voyage; so that ’tis suppos’d this will not be the last Attempt, but that another will suddenly follow. And it may well be observ’d, that nothing considerable hath been done, in this grand Enterprize, but by the _English_. _A brief View of what Places are posses’d at this day in the_ West-Indies _by the_ English, Spaniards, French, Portuguese, _and_ Dutch. The _English_ possess in _Northern America_, _New England_, the Bay of _Trinity_, _Chincet_, and a part of _Terra Nova_, or _New-found Land_; _Virginia_, part of _Florida_, now call’d _Carolina_, the _Bermudas_, or _Summer-Islands_, _New Holland_, which they took from the _Dutch_ An. 1664. with _New Amsterdam_ and _Fort Orange_; _Terra Mariæ_, or _Mary-Land_, part of the Isles call’d _Lucaies_; among the _Antillæ_ or _Caribbee-Islands_, _Barbados_, _Anguilla_, part of _St. Christophers_, _Montserrat_, _Nieves_ or _Mevis_, _Antego_, _Dominico_, and _St. Vincent_; the Isle of _St. Catherine_, otherwise call’d _Providence_, _Jamaica_, the Isles of _Curacao_ and _Trinity_, several Colonies at _Surinam_ and _Sinamari_, with several Forts upon the Coast of _Guiana_; and lastly, the Haven _Porto Bello_, once the _Spaniards_. The _Spaniards_ possess the greatest and best part of _America_, wherein they have a vast number of very considerable Towns. In _Northern America_ they have 1. _New Spain_, in which are the _Audiences_ of _Mexico_, _Guadalajara_, and _Guatimala_. 2. The Islands _Cuba_ and _Hispaniola_ (excepting some parts towards the West, which are in possession of the _French_), _Boriquen_, &c. also _St. Augustine_ and _St. Matthew_ in _Florida_, and a part of _New Mexico_. In _Southern America_, _Castilla d’ Oro_ or _Golden Castile_, otherwise call’d _Terra Firma_, in which are the _Audiences_ of _Panama_, and the new Realm of _Granada_; next _Peru_, in which are the _Audiences_ of _Quito_, _Lima_, and _La Plata_; lastly, _Chili_ and _Paraguay_, which comprehends the Countreys of _Tucuman_ and _La Plata_. The _French_ have in _Canada_, or _Nova Francia_, _Montreal_, the Rivers _Quebeck_, _Tadousack_, and some Places upon the great River of _St. Lawrence_; also _Accadie_, or _Nova Scotia_, the Isle of _Cape Breton_, with the Fort _St. Peter_, from whence they Traffick to _Nepigiquit_, with the Salvages of that Coast; part of the Isle of _Terre-Neuve_, _Pemptagoet_, _St. Jean_, _Port-Royal_, and other Fortresses. Among the _Caribbee-Islands_, part of _St. Christophers_, _St. Bartholomew_, _St. Crux_, _St. Martin_, _Guadalupe_, _Deseado_, _Marigalante_, _Todos los Sanctos_, _Martinico_, _St. Alousie_ and _Granada_; likewise some Colonies on the West of _Hispaniola_. Upon the Continent of _Southern America_, on the Coast of _Guiana_, the Isle _Cayene_, where stands the Fort of _St. Michael de Ceperoux_, now _Fort Louis_; also the Colonies of _Mathouri_ and _Armire_, _Courrou_, _Coonama_ and _Comaribo_. The _Portuguese_ possess all the Coast of _Brasile_ in _Southern America_, with several _Capitania_’s or _Præfectures_ thereof. The _Dutch_ have onely the Isles of _St. Eustace_ and _Saba_, the Town of _Coro_ in _Terra Firma_, the Colonies _Boron_, _Esquib_, _Berebie_, _Aperwaque_, and others, on the Coast of _Guiana_. _FINIS._ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES 1. Added closing quotes to all quoted passages. 2. The Section numbering was irregular. Corrected the numbers which were obvious. Appended an "a" to the second of a duplicate. There were no section ones. And a few items did not get section numbers. 3. There seemed to be no clear distinction between why some topics were Chapters and others just sections Sections. 4. P. 15, changed “In v.ta Heliogabali” to “In vita Heliogabali”. 5. P. 35, changed “Consutius” to “Confutius”. 6. P. 74, changed “Aso” to “Also”. 7. P. 123, changed “Chineses” to “Chileses”. 8. P. 230, changed “and the rather” to “and he rather”. 9. P. 396, changed “next it” to “next to it”. 10. P. 611, changed “Year 1231.” to “Year 1531.” 11. Silently corrected typographical errors and variations in spelling. 12. Retained anachronistic, non-standard, and uncertain spellings as printed. 13. Enclosed italics font in _underscores_. 14. Superscripts are denoted by a caret before a single superscript character or a series of superscripted characters enclosed in curly braces, e.g. M^r. or M^{ister}. 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