Chapter III: Part 3

_To the Worthy Gentlemen my surviving Owners, the Worshipful_
Christopher Shuter _Esq._, _Sir_ John Hawkins _Kt._, John Romsey
_Esq._; _Capt._ Philip Freake, _Mr._ James Hollidge, Francis
Rogers, Thomas Goldney, Thomas Clements, Thomas Coutes, John
Corsely, John Duckinfield, Richard Hawksworth, William Saunders,
John Grant, Laurence Hollister, _and_ Daniel Hickman, _Merchants
in_ Bristol.

Gentlemen,

_As you did me the Honour to approve my Proposals for the following Voyage, and generously fitted out two Ships, in which you gave me the principal Command; I no sooner resolv’d to publish my Journal, than I determin’d to chuse you for my Patrons: and thereby to take an opportunity of expressing my Gratitude to you, who had the Courage to adventure your Estates on an Undertaking, which to Men less discerning seem’d impracticable._

_I heartily congratulate you on the Success and Profit of this Long and Hazardous Voyage; which might have been greater, but the following Sheets will show it was not my fault._

_I shall only add on this Head, that I used my utmost Endeavours to promote your Interest, which was always prefer’d to my own._

_I make no doubt, it will be to your lasting Honour, that such a Voyage was undertaken from_ Bristol _at your Expence; since it has given the Publick a sufficient Evidence of what may be done in those Parts, and since the Wisdom of the Nation has now agreed to establish a Trade to the_ South-Seas, _which, with the Blessing of God, may bring vast Riches to_ GREAT BRITAIN.

_I wish you intire Health and Happiness, and am_,

GENTLEMEN, _Your most Humble Servant_, WOODES ROGERS.

A

Cruising VOYAGE

Round the

WORLD,

Begun _August 1. 1708._ and Finished _October 14. 1711_.

By Captain WOODES ROGERS,

Commander in Chief.

Tho others, who give an Account of their Voyages, do generally attempt to imitate the Stile and Method which is us’d by Authors that write ashore, I rather chuse to keep to the Language of the Sea, which is more genuine, and natural for a Mariner. And because Voyages of this sort have commonly miscarry’d, ’tis necessary that I should keep to my Original Journal; that the Methods we took to succeed in our Designs, may appear from time to time in their native Light: Therefore without any disguise I shall publish the Copies of all our material Regulations and Agreements, and keep to the usual Method of Sea-Journals, omitting nothing that happen’d remarkable to our selves, or that may serve for Information or Improvement to others in the like Cases. Every day’s Transactions begin at the foregoing Day about twelve a clock, and end at the same Hour the following Day carrying that Date.

Since Custom has likewise prevail’d for Sailors to give an Account of such Countries upon whose Coasts they touch or pass by, I shall so far comply with it as to give a Description of those that occur’d in the Course of my Navigation, especially of such as are or may be of most use for enlarging our Trade; wherein I have consulted the best Authors upon the Subject, and the Manuscript Journals of others, as well as inform’d my self by Inquiry upon the Spot, and from those that have been in the respective Countries I treat of.

_1708. August 2._ Yesterday about four in the Afternoon we weigh’d from _Kingroad_ near _Bristol_, on board the _Duke_ frigate, whereof Capt. _Woodes Rogers_ was Commander, in Consortship with the _Dutchess_, Capt. _Stephen Courtney_ Commander; both private Men of War, bound to _Cork_ in _Ireland_, and thence to the Southward a cruising; the _Duke_ Burden about 320 Tuns, having 30 Guns and 117 Men; and the _Dutchess_ Burden about 260 Tuns by Measure, 26 Guns and 108 Men; both well furnish’d with all Necessaries on board for a distant Undertaking.

We had in Company the _Scipio_, _Peterborough_ frigate, _Prince Eugene_, _Bristol_ Galley, _Berkely_ Galley, _Beecher_ Galley, _Pompey_ Galley, _Sherstone_ Galley, and _Diamond_ Sloop. At ten at night having little Wind, we made the Signal for the Fleet to anchor, between _the Holms_ and _Minehead_. We lay near two hours, and about twelve we fir’d a Gun, and all came to sail, a fine Gale at S E and E S E. We ran by _Minehead_ at six in the morning, having stem’d the Flood from the place we anchor’d at. We came up with a Sloop about ten a clock; but she could not hold way with the Fleet, being all light and clean Ships, and good Sailors.

[Sidenote: _From Kingroad to Cork._]

_August 3._ The Wind veer’d to the N E and E N E. Our Ship and the _Dutchess_ did not sail so well as the major part of the Gallies, our Masts and Rigging being all unfit for the Sea, our Ships out of trim, and every thing in disorder, being very indifferently mann’d; notwithstanding our Number, we had not 20 Sailors in the Ship, and it’s very little better on board the _Dutchess_; which is a Discouragement, only we hope to get some good Sailors at _Cork_. We saw a Sail at five last night, the _Dutchess_ gave chase, and came near her; she seem’d a large Ship, but we lost sight of her at eight a clock. Being inform’d at _Bristol_ that the _Jersy_, a _French_ Man of War carrying 46 Guns, was cruising betwixt _England_ and _Ireland_, it oblig’d us to keep our Hammocks up, and a clear Ship for a Fight, all night. About two this morning the rest of the Fleet that lay a-stern of us came up, and we kept an easy Sail, with a Light out all Night; but when Day came, we saw nothing, so that this prov’d a false Alarm: which happen’d well for us, since had it been real, we should have made but an indifferent Fight, for want of being better mann’d.

_Aug. 4._ The _Bristol_ Galley, _Berkley_ Galley, _Prince Eugene_, and the _Beecher_ Galley, being bound to the Westward, left us at six in the Evening; little Wind at E S E. and smooth Water.

_Aug. 5._ We saw the Land, and finding we had overshot our Port, came to an anchor at twelve a clock off of the two Rocks call’d the _Sovereigns Bollacks_[85] near _Kinsale_, being calm.

_Aug. 6._ About eight last night we weigh’d with the Flood, a small Gale at East; it came on to blow, and veer’d to the Northward. We had a _Kinsale_ Pilot on board, who was like to have endanger’d our Ship, it being dark and foggy. Before day he would have turn’d us into the next Bay to the Westward of _Cork_, had not I prevented it; which provok’d me to chastise him for undertaking to pilot a Ship, since he understood his Business no better. The rest of our Company, except the _Diamond_ and _Sherstone_ Galley, got into _Cork_ before us; only our Consort staid in the Harbour’s Mouth till we came up with her.

_Aug. 7._ Yesterday at three in the Afternoon we came to an anchor with our Consort in the Cove, Wind at N N E.

_Aug. 8._ Came in the _Arundel_ a Queen’s Ship, and order’d us to strike our Pendant; which we immediately did, all private Commission Ships being oblig’d by their Instructions to pay that Respect to all her Majesty’s Ships and Fortifications.

_Aug. 9._ Yesterday Afternoon came in the _Hastings_ with the Fleet under her Convoy, which we left in _Kingroad_: as also the _Elizabeth_, a Merchant-Ship of 500 Tuns, about 26 Guns, and well mann’d, with a Fleet under her Convoy from _Leverpool_, bound to the Westward, with us and the _Hastings_, &c. Fair Weather, the Wind Southerly.

_Aug. 10._ We were well pleas’d with the Men Mr. _Noblett Rogers_[86] got for us at _Cork_; upon which we clear’d several of those brought from _Bristol_, and some of ’em run away, being ordinary Fellows, and not fit for our Employment.

_Aug. 11._ It blow’d fresh and dirty Weather; we had four Lighters from _Cork_ to discharge our Ships, that we might have them well stow’d, and the Provisions in the bottom when they came aboard us. We lengthen’d our Mizen-Mast four Foot and a half, by placing it on a Step on the Gun-Deck; got our Fore-Mast forward, and did what we could in order to be in a better trim than before, against we had better Men to work the Ship, who lay all ready to come aboard from _Cork_.

_Aug. 12._ Blew fresh, and dirty Weather; we clear’d and run near forty of our fresh-water Sailors. The _Shoreham_, Capt. _Saunders_,[87] came hither to convoy a Fleet back to _Bristol_.

_Aug. 16._ Continu’d dirty Weather, so that we could not have an Opportunity to heel our Ship and clean her Bottom; and were forc’d to keep our Provisions cover’d in the Lighter, and Men to watch ’em. This Morning, about ten, one Boat loaded with Men came down from _Cork_ to us. The Fellows appear’d to be brisk, but of several Nations; and I sent to Mr. _Rogers_ to stop the rest till we were ready, our Ships being pester’d.

_Aug. 28._ Nothing happen’d worth notice since the 16th, but that we had good Weather to clean and tallow our Ships five Streaks below the Water-Line, and to take in our Provisions and Men, _&c._ This Morning we fell down to the _Spit-end_ by the _Hastings_ Man of War, as our Consort did the night before. When I came without the _Spit-end_, I saluted the _Hastings_ with seven Guns; they return’d five, and I three for Thanks. We had now above double the number of Officers usual in Privateers, and a large Complement of Men to each Ship. We took this Method of doubling our Officers to prevent Mutinies, which often happen in long Voyages, and that we might have a large Provision for a Succession of

[Sidenote: _At Cork in Ireland._]

Officers in each Ship, in case of Mortality. Our Ship was now so full that we sent our Sheet-Cable and other new Store Cordage to Mr. _Noblett Rogers_ at _Cork_, to make room for our Men and Provisions; having three Cables besides, and being willing rather to spare that, than any thing else we had aboard. Our Crew were continually marrying whilst we staid at _Cork_, tho they expected to sail immediately. Among others there was a _Dane_ coupled by a Romish Priest to an _Irish_ Woman, without understanding a word of each other’s Language, so that they were forc’d to use an Interpreter; yet I perceiv’d this Pair seem’d more afflicted at Separation than any of the rest: The Fellow continu’d melancholy for several days after we were at Sea. The rest understanding each other, drank their Cans of Flip[88] till the last minute, concluded with a Health to our good Voyage, and their happy Meeting, and then parted unconcern’d.

I think it necessary to set down here the Names of all the Officers in both Ships, with the Number of our Men; because it is proper, that the Persons whom this Journal concerns, should be known.

_Officers of the_ Duke

_Woodes Rogers_, Captain, a Mariner; _Thomas Dover_, a Doctor of Physick, second Captain, President of our Council, and Captain of the Marines; _Carleton Vanbrugh_, Merchant, now our Owners Agent; _Robert Fry_, a Mariner, chief Lieutenant; _Charles Pope_, second Lieutenant; _Thomas Glendall_, third Lieutenant; _John Bridge_, Master; _William Dampier_, Pilot for the _South-Seas_, who had been already three times there, and twice round the World; _Alexander Vaughan_, chief Mate; _Lanc. Appleby_, second Mate; _John Ballet_, rated third Mate, but design’d Surgeon, if occasion; he had been Captain _Dampier’s_ Doctor, in his last unfortunate Voyage round the World; _Samuel Hopkins_, being Dr. _Dover’s_ Kinsman and an Apothecary, was both an Assistant to him, and to act as his Lieutenant, if we landed a Party any where under his Command during the Voyage; _George Underhill_ and _John Parker_, two young Lawyers design’d to act as Midshipmen; _John Vigor_, a Reformado,[89] to act as Capt. _Dover’s_ Ensign when ashore; _Benj. Parsons_ and _Howel Knethel_, Midshipmen; _Richard Edwards_, Coxswain of the Pinnace, to receive Midshipmens Pay; _James Wasse_, Surgeon; _Charles May_, his Mate; _John Lancy_, Assistant; _Henry Oliphant_, Gunner, with eight Men call’d the Gunner’s Crew; _Nath. Scorch_, Carpenter; _John Jones_, his Mate, with three Assistants; _Giles Cash_, Boatswain; and _John Pillar_, his Mate; _John Shepard_, Cooper, with two Assistants; _John Johnson_, _Thomas Young_, _Charles Clovet_, and _John Bowden_, all four Quarter-Masters; _John Finch_, late wholesale Oilman of _London_, now Ship’s Steward; _Henry Newkirk_, Sail-maker; _Peter Vandenhende_, Smith and Armourer; _William Hopkins_, Ship’s Corporal, Capt. _Dover’s_ Serjeant, and Cook to the Officers; _Barth. Burnes_, Ship’s Cook.

_Officers of the_ Dutchess

_Stephen Courtney_, Captain, a Mariner; _Edward Cook_, second Captain; _William Stretton_, chief Lieutenant; _John Rogers_, second Lieutenant; _John Connely_, third Lieutenant; _William Bath_, Owners Agent; _George Milbourn_, Master; _Robert Knowlman_, chief Mate; _Henry Duck_, second; _Simon Hatley_, third; _James Goodall_, fourth; and _William Page_, fifth Mate: With all other inferior Officers much the same as aboard the _Duke_. Most of us, the chief Officers, embrac’d this Trip of Privateering round the World, to retrieve the Losses we had sustain’d by the Enemy. Our Complement of Sailors in both Ships was 333, of which above one Third were Foreigners from most Nations; several of her Majesty’s Subjects on board were Tinkers, Taylors, Hay-makers, Pedlers, Fidlers, _&c._ one Negro, and about ten Boys. With this mix’d Gang we hop’d to be well mann’d, as soon as they had learnt the Use of Arms, and got their Sea-Legs, which we doubted not soon to teach ’em, and bring them to Discipline.

_Septemb. 1._ We took sailing Orders, the better to keep Company with the _Hastings_ and Fleet: and after having agreed with our Consort, Captain _Courtney_, on Signals between us, which are so common that I need not insert them here, and appointed places of Rendevouz in case of Separation, and how long to lie for each other at every place; about ten this Morning, we came to sail with the _Hastings_ and about 20 Merchant Ships, bound to the Southward and Westward, Wind at N by W. We should have sail’d yesterday, but could not weigh and cast our Ships clear of the rest; some at that time drove, and the _Sherstone_ Gally run quite ashore on the _Spit_. In the night it grew moderate

_From a scarce print in the Macpherson collection._]

[Sidenote: _Departure from Cork._]

Weather, and Captain _Paul_ got her off to sail with us. Our Holds are full of Provisions; our Cables, a great deal of Bread, and Water-Casks between Decks; and 183 Men aboard the _Duke_, with 151 aboard the _Dutchess_: so that we are very much crouded and pester’d Ships, not fit to engage an Enemy without throwing Provision and Stores overboard.

_Septemb. 2._ We and our Consort stood out of the Fleet to chase a Sail we saw to Windward. Our ships sail’d as well as any in the Fleet, not excepting the Man of War; so that we began to hope we should find our heels, since we go so well tho deep loaden and pester’d. We found the Chase to be a small Vessel coming into the Fleet from _Baltimore_, one _Hunt_ Master, call’d the _Hope_ Gally, a small _French_-built Snow belonging to Mr. _James Vaughan_ of _Bristol_, bound for _Jamaica_. Wind at N by W. Moderate Weather.

_Septemb. 3._ The Wind very veerable from the W S W. to the N W. blow’d strong with Squalls, so that we reef’d often, and our Ship was a little leaky in her upper Works.

_Septemb. 4._ It blew fresh this Morning, but not so much Wind as Yesterday, and the Water smoother. Captain _Paul_ made a Signal for me, Capt. _Courtney_, and Capt. _Edwards_ Commander of the _Scipio_; and after speaking with him, he sent his Boat for us, being larger than ours. We with Capt. _Dover_ and Mr. _Vanbrugh_ went in her, and din’d with Capt. _Paul_ aboard his Ship, where we were very handsomly treated. He propos’d to me and Consort when he left the Fleet, which would be very soon, to cruise a few days together off Cape _Finister_, after having ask’d us what we wanted that he could supply us with. He gave us Scrubbers, Iron Scrapers for our Ships Bottom, a speaking Trumpet, and other things that we wanted: but he would accept nothing from us, because our Voyage would be long; but told us, he should be well pleas’d if our Owners return’d him the same Necessaries for his Ship when he return’d. Wind from the N N W. to the N W by W. moderate.

_Septemb. 5._ We came from on board Capt. _Paul_ to our own Ships, yesterday at six in the Afternoon; and now thought it fit to discover to our Crew whither we were bound, that if any Disorders should have risen upon it, we might have exchang’d our Malecontents whilst in Company with one of her Majesty’s Ships. But I found no Complaint on board the _Duke_, except from one Fellow who expected to have been Tything-Man that year in his Parish, and said his Wife would be oblig’d to pay Forty Shillings in his Absence: but seeing all the rest willing, he was easily quieted, and all Hands drank to a good Voyage. I and Capt. _Courtney_ writ to our Owners, Alderman _Batchelor_ and Company, in the same Letter, a Method we design’d to continue in the whole Voyage, for all things that related to it. A brisk Gale and clear Weather.

_Sept. 6._ The _Hastings_ and we parted at six last night. The reason why we did not keep him longer Company, was our Ships being very full, and our Consort unwilling to lose time so near home; so that we were oblig’d to break Measures with Capt. _Paul_. I excus’d it to him, and saluted him, which he answer’d, and wish’d us a prosperous Undertaking. Wind N. by W. and clear Weather. Our Ship does not sail so well as she did two days before. The _Crown_ Gally of _Biddiford_ keeps us Company bound for the _Maderas_. Wind from N N W. to N by E.

_Sept. 8._ Every thing now begins to come into Order, we having been hitherto in some Confusion, as is usual in Privateers at first setting out. We had a good Observation. Moderate Weather, Wind at W N W. Lat. 40. 10. N. This day the chief Officers din’d on board me, and the next day on board the _Dutchess_.

_Sept. 9._ Now we begin to consider the Length of our Voyage, and the many different Climates we must pass, and the excessive Cold which we cannot avoid, going about Cape _Horne_; at the same time we had but a slender Stock of Liquor, and our Men but meanly clad, yet good Liquor to Sailors is preferable to Clothing. Upon this we held our first Committee, to debate whether ’twas necessary for us to stop at _Madera_, as follows.

At a Committee held on Board the _Duke_ Frigate, resolv’d by the
General Consent of the following Persons:

[Sidenote: _From Cork to the Southward._]

_That both the Ships_ Duke _and_ Dutchess _do touch at_ Madera, _to make a larger Provision of Liquors, the better to carry on our long Undertaking, being but meanly stor’d for so large a Number of Men as are in both Ships; and in case of Separation between this Place and_ Madera, _then to meet at the Island_ St. Vincent, _one of the_ Cape de Verd _Islands, to wood and water our Ships. But if we miss of one another at that Island, or that the first Ship finds it inconvenient for stopping, then to proceed to_ Praia _on_ St. Jago, _another of the same Islands; to wait at both these Islands fourteen Days: And then if the missing Ship does not appear, the other to proceed to the Isle of_ Grande, _in Latitude_ 23 deg. 30 m. S. _on the Coast of_ Brazil, _there to wait three Weeks; and then if we don’t meet, let the single Ship proceed on the Voyage, according to the Orders given from our Owners. This is our Opinion this 9th day of_ September, 1708.

Thos. Dover _President_, Charles Pope,
Stephen Courtney, Carleton Vanbrugh,
Woodes Rogers, Tho. Glendall,
Edward Cooke, John Bridge,
William Dampier, John Ballet.
Robert Frye,

_Sept. 10._ At six in the Morning we saw a Sail; after speaking with our Consort, we both chas’d. I gave the _Dutchess_ about a mile start of us, in order to spread the more. It blew fresh, with a great Sea; and the Chase being to Windward, we crouded extravagantly. Wind at N W.

_Sept. 11._ At three yesterday Afternoon we came up with the Chase, who bore down right upon us, shewing _Swedish_ Colours. I fir’d twice at her before she brought to, then went aboard her with my Yall,[90] Captain _Courtney’s_ Boat being just before me. We examin’d the Master, and found he came round _Scotland_ and _Ireland_. We suspected he had Contraband Goods on board, because some of the Men we found drunk, told us they had Gunpowder and Cables; so we resolv’d to examine her strictly, put 12 Men on board her, and kept the _Swedes_ Master and 12 of his Men on board our Ships. This Morning, after we had examin’d the Men, and searched the Ship, we found it difficult to be prov’d whether she was a Prize: And not willing to hinder time to carry her into any Harbour to examine her farther, we let her go without the least Embezelment. The Master gave me two Hams, and some rufft dry’d Beef, and I gave him a dozen Bottles of Red-Streak Cyder. They saluted us at parting with four Guns: She belong’d to _Stadt_ near _Hamburg_, and was a Frigate built Ship of 22 Guns, about 270 Tuns. While I was on board the _Swede_ yesterday, our Men mutiny’d, the Ringleaders being our Boatswain, and three other inferior Officers. This Morning the chief Officers having kept with me in the after-part of the Ship, we confin’d the Authors of this Disorder, in which there was not one Foreigner concern’d. We put ten of the Mutineers in Irons, a Sailor being first soundly whip’d for exciting the rest to join him. Others less guilty I punish’d and discharg’d, but kept the chief Officers all arm’d, fearing what might happen; the Ship’s Company seeming too much inclin’d to favour the Mutineers, made me the easier forgive. Some beg’d Pardon, and others I was forc’d to wink at; however, they began to find their Design frustrated, which was to make a Prize of the _Swede_, who they alledg’d had much Contraband Goods aboard, tho we could see none; yet they obstinately insisted, that we apparently gave away their Interest, by letting her go without plundering her. I labour’d to convince them of the necessity of our making Dispatch, and that if we could make her a Prize, it would unman our Ships too much to send her into any Port, besides other Disadvantages it might procure to our selves and Owners should we be mistaken; which pacify’d the major part. Our Consort’s Men were at first very uneasy, but finding the Malecontents quell’d aboard our Ship, they all kept quiet.

_Sept. 12._ Yesterday the Wind was very little and veerable, and we had an Observation, 34 deg. 30 min. N.

_Sept. 13._ Those in Irons discover’d others who were Ringleaders in the Mutiny, whom we also punish’d, and confin’d one of them in Irons with the rest. _Alexander Wynter_ was made Boatswain instead of _Giles Cash_, one of the Mutineers. Fair pleasant Weather, little Wind at N W by W.

[Sidenote: _Arrival among the Canary Isles._]

_Sept. 14._ I agreed with the Captain of the _Crown_ Galley to carry my Boatswain (who was the most dangerous Fellow among the Mutineers) in Irons with him to _Maderas_. I did not at his first Confinement think of sending him off; but this day a Sailor came aft to the Steeridg Door, with near half the Ship’s Company of Sailors following him, and demanded the Boatswain out of Irons. I desir’d him to speak with me by himself on the Quarter-Deck, which he did, where the Officers assisted me, seiz’d him, and made one of his chief Comrades whip him. This Method I thought best for breaking any unlawful Friendship amongst themselves; which, with different Correction to other Offenders, allay’d the Tumult; so that now they begin to submit quietly, and those in Irons beg Pardon, and promise Amendment, This Mutiny would not have been easily lay’d, were it not for the number of our Officers, which we begin to find very necessary to bring our Crew to Order and Discipline, which is always very difficult in Privateers, and without which ’tis impossible to carry on any distant Undertaking like ours. Fine pleasant Weather, and moderate Gales.

It being little Wind, and contrary, we agreed to pass by _Maderas_, and cruise a little amongst the _Canary_ Islands for Liquor, to prevent Loss of time: So we took leave of the _Crown_ Galley, who was bound into _Madera_.

_Sept. 15._ Last night we sent _Giles Cash_ aboard her in Irons, with several Letters by the Commander at large to our Owners. We parted at twelve a Clock at night. Fair Weather, very little Wind from W N W. to N by E. had a very good Observation. Latitude 31 deg. 29 min. N.

_Sept. 16._ I discharg’d the Prisoners from their Irons, upon their humble Submission and strict Promises of good Behaviour for time to come. While they continu’d in Irons they had Centries over them, and were fed with Bread and Water. Those that were Officers we restor’d to their Places, and every body was order’d to obey them; _John Pillar_ the Boatswain’s Mate was advanc’d to be Boatswain, so that we are all quiet again. About eight this morning we saw Land, and found it to be _Salvage’s_ Island, bearing S S W. distant eight Leagues, Latitude 29 deg. 45 min. Wind very little, and veerable, with fair clear Weather.

_Sept. 17._ Moderate Gales of Wind; the _Salvages_ at a distance is not unlike the Island _Lundy_ in _Bristol_ Channel, about two miles long, a high Island. This Morning we saw the Rock, that appear’d to us a good League to the S W. of the Island, and took it to be a Sail till we came near it. Little Wind between the N N E. and the West.

_Sept. 18._ At four yesterday in the Afternoon we came in sight of _Pico Teneriff_, bearing S W by W. distant about eight Leagues; steer’d S S E. and S E by S. for _Grand Canaries_. This Morning about five a clock we spy’d a Sail under our Lee Bow, between the Islands of _Grand Canaries_ and _Forteventura_; we chas’d her, and at 7 came up with her. Our Consort being a little a Head, fir’d a Gun, and made her bring to; she prov’d a Prize, being a _Spanish_ Bark about 25 Tuns, belonging to _Oratava_ on _Teneriff_, and bound to _Forteventura_ with about 45 Passengers; who rejoic’d when they found us _English_, because they fear’d we were _Turks_. Amongst the Prisoners were four Fryars, and one of them the Padre Guardian for the Island _Forteventura_, a good honest old Fellow. We made him heartily merry, drinking King _Charles_ the Third’s[91] Health; but the rest were of the wrong sort. We us’d them all very well, without searching them, _&c._ Fresh Gales and fair Weather, Wind from the N N E. to the E S E.

_Sept. 19._ After we had took the Prize, we stood to the Westward for _Teneriff_, in order to have her ransom’d; where our Agent Mr. _Vanbrugh_ press’d to go ashoar with some of the Prisoners. At eleven last night the Wind being at N E. when we were very near the Shore, we could hardly weather Cape _Nago_, the Eastermost part of _Teneriff_, till the Wind veer’d to the Northward. We stood off till Day: In the Morning it prov’d moderate, so we stood in for _Oratava_, and sent the _Spanish_ Master of the Bark to it in his Boat, being mann’d with some of the Prisoners. Mr. _Vanbrugh_ still insisting to go ashore, I consented, tho against my Judgment, and he went with them to treat for the Ransom of the Hull of the Bark; her small Cargo, which consisted in two Butts of Wine, and one Hogshead of Brandy, and other small matters, we design’d for our own use in both Ships, the Agents of each being to take an account of it the first Opportunity. Fresh Gale of Wind at N E.

_Sept. 20._ About eight this Morning came a Boat off from _Oratava_ with a Flag of Truce, and brought a Letter signifying that unless we would immediately restore the Bark and Cargo, Mr. _Vanbrugh_ should be detain’d. I sent to Capt. _Courtney_, who agreed with me on an Answer. We stood in with our Ships within a League of the Town, to tow in the Boat for Dispatch, and about eleven they went ashore again. Wind at N E by E. very fresh.

The Letter sent us was as follows:

Capt. _Rogers_ and Capt. _Courtney_;

_Gentlemen_,

Port _Oratava, 20 Sept. 1708_.

‘Your Lieutenant coming ashore, and having given an account to our
Governor of your having taken a Boat belonging to this place bound
to _Forteventura_; we must inform you that her Majesty is
graciously pleas’d to allow a Trade between her Subjects and the
People of these Islands, whereof we suppose you are not ignorant;
and that it is approv’d of not only by his Catholick Majesty, but
also by the most gracious Christian King, who has sent

[Sidenote: _Amongst the Canary Isles._]

express Orders unto his Consul here, that none of his Men of War or
others shall molest any Ship trading to these Islands: and there
has been actually an Example of a Ship belonging to the Subjects of
her _Britannick_ Majesty, which was taken by a _French_ Privateer,
and upon due Application to the _French_ Consul, the Ship was
restor’d. Wherefore we are all of Opinion, that there can be no
room for your making a Prize of this _Spanish_ Bark; for it will be
extremely prejudicial to her Majesty’s Subjects that reside here,
and likewise to those in _England_ trading hither, by prohibiting
of all future Trade, by making more than sufficient Reprisal upon
our Effects here, and perhaps on our Persons, by reason of the
evident Breach on our part of the stipulated Trade which has been
concerted with us. Wherefore we must once more desire you to
restore the _Spanish_ Bark, as you will answer the contrary before
her Majesty, who has so far approv’d of the private Trade, that she
was pleas’d to allow of two Men of War (viz. the _Dartmouth_ Capt.
_Cock_, and the _Greyhound_ Capt. _Hariot_) the last year, who had
express Orders to molest in no manner of way any Vessel belonging
to the _Spaniards_; which accordingly they observ’d. Wherefore as
you have a due Regard to what is so much the Interest of her
Majesties Subjects, we expect at the return of this Boat, that you
will make Restitution of the said Bark, otherwise Mr. _Vanbrugh_
will not be permitted to go off, and there will be extravagant
Reprisals made upon our Estates and Persons, which we expect you
will take into your Consideration: and we cannot omit to let you
know, that there is now a _Spanish_ Bark actually in _England_,
which is daily expected with other _English_ Ships to load Wine,
which they will not be admitted to do, in case you don’t restore
this Bark. We don’t doubt but the People here out of Complaisance
will make you some acknowledgment of a Refreshment.

Gentlemen,
Your very humble Servants,
_J. Pouldon_, Vice-Consul, _J. Crosse_,
_Bernard Walsh_, _G. Fitz-Gerald_.

‘Pray excuse Haste, that we have not time to transcribe.

‘The rest of the Merchants are in the City where our Governor
generally resides, being about six Leagues hence.

Our Answer was thus:

_On board the_ Duke Frigat, Sept. 20.

_Gentlemen_,

‘We have yours, and observe its Contents; but having no
Instructions given us with our Commission relating to _Spanish_
Vessels trading amongst these Islands, we can’t justify the parting
with this Bark on your single Opinions. It was Mr. _Vanbrugh’s_
misfortune to go ashore; and if he is detain’d, we can’t help it.
To have convinc’d us satisfactorily of what you say, you ought to
have sent us a Copy of her Majesty’s Orders or Proclamation; but we
doubt there’s no such thing in this case. If Mr. _Vanbrugh_ is
unjustly detain’d, we’ll carry the Prisoners we have on board to
the Port we are bound to, let the Consequence be what it will. We
are requir’d to be accountable no farther than we are oblig’d by
our Instructions, which we have given sufficient Security already
to follow, and don’t fear a _Premunire_ when we comply with them.
We know Fishing-Boats are excus’d on both sides, and all trading
Vessels from _Rio la Hache_ to the River of _Chagre_ in the
_Spanish West-Indies_. We admire the Master and Passengers should
be so ignorant of a thing so necessary to be known by ’em, for we
never had the least word or intimation from them of what you write.
The Example you give us of a Trade here allow’d by the _French_
King and Duke of _Anjou_, we don’t admire at, because it is for the
Benefit of the _Spaniards_; and we know the _English_ Ships are
protected no farther than in Anchor-Ground: and since we took this
Vessel at Sea, we shan’t part with her unless on our own Terms. If
you are positive in what you wrote us, and conscious what detriment
it will be to the _English_ Trade, you have no way to prevent it,
but immediately to ransom this Bark; and if it be her Majesty of
_Great Britain’s_ Pleasure, and we are better inform’d in
_England_, then we can justify our Conduct to the Gentlemen that
imploy’d us, and you will be again reimbursed. We shall wait but a
short time for an Answer, having Water and Provisions for our
selves and Prisoners to the _English_ Settlements, where we are
bound. We are apprehensive you are oblig’d to give us this Advice
to gratify the _Spaniards_; and with Respect are,

Gentlemen, Your Humble Servants, _Woodes Rogers_, _Stephen Courtney_.

[Sidenote: _Amongst the Canary Isles._]

‘If you send us Mr. _Vanbrugh_, and the Man with him, we’ll send
you the Prisoners; but we’ll not part from the Bark, unless
ransom’d: tho the Value is not much, we will not be impos’d on. We
desire you to use all manner of Dispatch without loss of time,
which we can’t allow, nor answer it to our Employers.

_Sept. 21._ At six last night the _Spanish_ Boat came again to us with dilatory Answers to our last, insisting on behalf of the _Spaniards_, that the Goods should be return’d ’em, tho they consented to ransom the Bark. To which we immediately return’d an Answer; for we were angry at their Tediousness and our ill Treatment, our time being precious, because we were inform’d that they expected every hour a small Privateer that usually cruis’d off of _Madera_, as also a _Spanish_ Ship from the _West-Indies_ design’d for _Santa Cruz_: So that it look’d like a Design, to keep us here in suspence till these Ships might get safely in, on the other side of the Island. Our Answer was to this effect: That had it not been out of respect to our Officer on shore, we would not have staid one minute, but would now stay till Morning for their Answer, and take a Cruise among the Islands some time longer than we intended, in order to make a Reprisal; and tho we could not land our Men, would visit the Town with our Guns by eight next morning: adding, that we hop’d to meet with the Governor’s Frigat, and should repay his Civility in his own way, but wonder’d that they being _Englishmen_ should trifle with us. The Letter had its effect; for this Morning at eight a clock we stood in close to the Town, and spy’d a Boat coming off, which prov’d to be one Mr. _Crosse_ an _English_ Merchant, and Mr. _Vanbrugh_ our Agent with him, with Wine, Grapes, Hogs, and other Necessaries, for the Ransom of the Bark. Upon his coming up, we immediately went to work, discharg’d the Bark, and parted the small Cargo between our two Ships. We treated Mr. _Crosse_ as well as we could, and at his desire gave the Prisoners back as much as we could find of what belong’d to their Persons; particularly to the Fryars their Books, Crucifixes, and Reliques. We presented the old _Padre_ Guardian with a Cheese, and such as were strip’d, with other Clothes. So that we parted, very well satisfy’d on all sides. Mr. _Crosse_ told us the _Spaniards_ ashore were very inquisitive whither we were bound; and understanding by the Prisoners that our Ships were sheath’d, and so full of Provisions, they suspected we design’d for the _South-Sea_: and he inform’d us that four or five _French_ Ships from 24 to 50 Guns sail’d thence about a month before on the same Voyage. But we did not think fit to own there, that we were bound to any other place than the _English West-Indies_. These Islands being so well known, I need not add any Description of them. We saw the Pike of _Teneriff_ plain but once while there, it being generally clouded; you may often see the Top above the Clouds, when the rest is all cover’d with them. Now we are indifferently well stock’d with Liquor, and shall be the better able to endure the Cold when we get the Length of Cape _Horn_, which we are inform’d has always very cold bad Weather near it.

_Sept. 22._ Last night just as we had finish’d with Mr. _Crosse_, and deliver’d the _Spaniards_ their Bark, we spy’d a Sail to the Westward of the Island between three and four in the Evening. We immediately made what Sail we could, and steer’d W by N. along the Shore. At eight a clock we were in sight of _Gomera_ bearing S S W. distant three Leagues, _Palma_ W by N. distant five Leagues. We lost sight of the Sail before Night, spoke with our Consort, and agreed to keep between _Palma_ and _Gomera_ in our Voyage; it being uncertain to meet with the Chase the next day, since last night she was near five Leagues from us, so that we believ’d she might get into a place of safety, if an Enemy, before we could see her. Besides, there came on a stiff Gale, which put us quite out of hopes of seeing her again to advantage. Fair Weather, fresh Gales at N E by N.

_Sept. 23._ About five yesterday in the afternoon, when at least 36 Leagues distant, we saw the _Pico Teneriff_ very plain. Fine pleasant Weather, fresh Gales with smooth Water, Wind at N E by E.

_Sept. 24._ We sent our Boat for Capt. _Courtney_, Capt. _Cook_, Mr. _Stratton_, and Mr. _Bath_ their Agent, who staid and din’d with us; and whilst they were aboard, we held a Council, the Result of which was as follows.

At a Committee by Desire of Capt. _Woodes Rogers_, Capt. _Thomas
Dover_, and Capt. _Stephen Courtney_, held on board the _Duke_.

[Sidenote: _Differences with Mr. Carleton Vanbrugh._]

_We have examin’d all Letters and Proceedings that happen’d at and after the taking the_ Spanish _Bark, and the Reason of both Ships Stay off of_ Teneriff, _and amongst the_ Canary _Islands; and we do approve of all that was transacted and wrote: the major part of us having at the time when ’twas done advis’d the Commanders to it. Witness our Hands_,

Tho. Dover, _Pres._ William Stratton,
Steph. Courtney, Robert Frye,
Woodes Rogers, Charles Pope,
Will. Dampier, Thomas Glendal,
Edward Cook, John Bridge,
Carl. Vanbrugh, John Ballet.
William Bath,

Whilst the Committee were together, Mr. _Vanbrugh_ complain’d I had not treated him as I ought: upon which I offer’d to refer it to all present, that we might not have needless Misunderstandings at the beginning of our Voyage; and they came to the following Resolution.

_Whereas there has been some Difference between Capt._ Woodes Rogers _and Mr._ Carleton Vanbrugh _the Ship’s Agent; it being refer’d to the Council, we adjudg’d the said Mr._ Vanbrugh _to be much in the wrong. In witness whereof, we have set our Hands, the_ 24_th of_ Sept. 1708.

Tho. Dover, _Pres._ William Bath,
Stephen Courtney, Charles Pope,
William Dampier, Thomas Glendal,
Edward Cook, John Bridge,
Robert Frye, John Ballet.
William Stratton,

_Sept. 25._ This day, according to custom, we duck’d[92] those that had never pass’d the Tropick before. The manner of doing it was by a Rope thro a Block from the Main-Yard, to hoist ’em above half way up to the Yard, and let ’em fall at once into the Water; having a Stick cross thro their Legs, and well fastned to the Rope, that they might not be surpriz’d and let go their hold. This prov’d of great use to our fresh-water Sailors, to recover the Colour of their Skins which were grown very black and nasty. Those that we duck’d after this manner three times, were about 60, and others that would not undergo it, chose to pay Half a Crown Fine; the Money to be levy’d and spent at a publick Meeting of all the Ships Companys, when we return to _England_. The _Dutch_ Men and some _English_ Men desir’d to be duck’d, some six, others eight, ten, and twelve times, to have the better Title for being treated when they come home. Wind N W by W. and veering to the Northward and Eastward.

_Sept. 26._ Yesterday in the Afternoon we sold the loose Plunder of the Bark amongst the Sailors by Auction. Fair Weather, moderate Gales at N N E. had a very good Observ. Lat. 21. 33. N.

_Sept. 29._ Betwixt nine and ten at night, a Sailor going up to furl the Main-Top-Gallant Sail, fell suddenly without any noise from the Main-Top over board, occasion’d as I suppos’d by a Fit. At nine this morning we saw Land, and suppos’d it to be _Sal_ one of the Cape _De Verd_ Islands, bearing S E by S. distant about 12 Ls.[93] At twelve a clock at noon it bore E S E. dist. 4 Ls. fair Weather, smooth Water, fresh Gales at N E. Lat. 17. 5. N. Long. W. from _London_, 23. 16.

_Sept. 30._ After being satisfy’d the Island was _Sal_, we stood from it W and W by N. for _St. Vincent_. At four a clock _Sal_ bore E by S. 1/4 S. dist. 10 Ls. At six _St. Nicholas_ bore S W by W. dist. 8 Ls. We went with an easy Sail till four this Morning, and lay by to make the Islands, because we had none aboard either Ship that was acquainted with ’em. When day broke, we saw the Islands all in a range, much as is laid down in the Draughts. At ten a clock we anchored in the Bay of _St. Vincent_ in five fathom Water. ’Tis a fine Bay: The Northmost Point bore North near a mile dist. and the Westermost Point bore West dist. about two miles: _Monk’s_ Rock, which is like a Sugar-Loaf, high and round, and bold on every side, lies almost in the Entrance of this fine sandy Bay on the West-side of the Island: But nearest the North Point of the Bay, Sailors must be careful as they come in, not to run too near under the high Land of the North Point, for fear of being becalm’d, and sudden Flaws coming every way upon ’em. There being a small Shoal about three Ships length almost without the Point, but giving it a small birth it’s bold enough. We ran within two Cables length of the first round Point, next to the long sandy Bay, and came to an anchor in clean sandy Ground. _Monk’s_ Rock bore N W by N. dist. 3/4 Mile; the Body of the Island _St. Antonio_ bore N W 1/2 N. dist. nine Miles.

[Sidenote: _Arival at St. Vincent._]

This is a fine Bay and good Landing, but the best at the Northermost Point. The Wood lies in the middle of the sandy Bay, and the Water between the North Point and the place where we anchor’d. There is good Anchoring all over the Bay, and the _Monks_-Rock will direct any Stranger into it, there being no other like it about this Island on the side opposite to _St. Antonio_. It blows here a constant Trade-Wind betwixt the E by N. and the N N E. except in the Months of _October_, _November_, _December_, and _January_, it sometimes blows Southerly with Tornadoes and Rain.

_October 1._ We clear’d our Ship yesterday, but it blow’d too hard to row our Boat-Loads of empty Butts ashoar; and we could do but little to Wooding and Watering, till this morning we were forc’d to get a Rope from the Ship to the watering-place, which is a good half-mile from our anchoring-place, and so haul’d our empty Casks ashore by Boat-loads, in order to have ’em burnt and clean’d in the Inside, being Oil-Casks; and for want of cleaning, our Water stunk insufferably. I borrow’d a Cooper from the _Dutchess_, and having five of my own, made quick dispatch.

_Octob. 3._ We sent our Boat over to _St. Antonio_, with _Joseph Alexander_, a good Linguist, and a respectful Letter to the Governour, who accounts himself a Great Man here, tho very poor, to get in Truck for our Prize-Goods what we wanted; they having plenty of Cattel, Goats, Hogs, Fowls, Melons, Potatoes, Limes, ordinary Brandy, Tobacco, Indian Corn, _&c._ Our People were very meanly stock’d with Clothes, and the _Dutchess’s_ Crew much worse; yet we are both forc’d to watch our Men very narrowly, and punish several of ’em, to prevent their selling what Clothes they have for Trifles to the Negroes, that came over with little things from _St. Antonio’s_. The People at all these Islands rather chuse Clothing or Necessaries of any sort than Mony, in return for what they sell. The Letter sent by the Linguist to the Governour of _St. Antonio’s_, Senior _Joseph Rodriges_, was as follows:

_Honourable Sir_,

‘The Bearer hereof is one of our Officers, whom we have sent to wait upon your Honour with our due Respects, and to acquaint you with our Arrival in the Bay of _St. Vincent_; and further, that being Subjects and Servants of her Majesty the Queen of _Great Britain_, a High Ally and Confederate of his Sacred Majesty the King of _Portugal_, and having several Necessaries which we suppos’d the Inhabitants of your Island may want, and supposing they can accommodate us _per contra_, we are desirous of an immediate Traffick with them. We arriv’d three days ago, but being Strangers were unacquainted in these parts, and not sooner inform’d of your Honour’s Residence in the neighbouring Islands; else we had been earlier with our Respects: and if not too great a Favour, we should be proud to see your Honour on board. Our Stay cannot exceed two days more, so that Dispatch is necessary. We have Mony or Goods of several kinds, to pay or exchange for what they bring. The Bearer can inform your Honour of the publick Occurrences of _Europe_, and the great Successes of the Confederate Arms against the _French_ and _Spaniards_; which, no doubt must soon be follow’d with a lasting Peace, which God grant. We subscribe our selves with much Respect,

Your Honour’s most Obedient Humble Servants, _Woodes Rogers_, _Stephen Courtney_.

_Octob. 4._ Our Boat return’d this Morning; but the Landing-place being far from the inhabitable part of _St. Antonio_, they brought nothing but a few Limes and Fowls, and left our Linguist behind to get what we wanted. We struck two of our Gun-room Guns into the Hold, being useless in their place, and the Ship having too much top-weight, and not very stiff. We had plenty of Fish here, but not very good. Wind at N N E.

_Octob. 5._ Our Boat went to _St. Antonio_ to see for our Linguist, according to appointment. We heel’d and clean’d our Ships, and got a great deal of Wood and Water aboard. Wind at N E. fine Weather.

_Octob. 6._ Our Boat return’d with nothing but Limes and Tobacco, and no News of our Linguist. But soon after there came another Boat belonging to that part of the Island where the Governour lives, with his Deputy-Governour, a Negro, who brought Limes, Tobacco, Oranges, Fowls, Potatoes, Hogs, Bonanoes, Musk and Water-Melons, and Brandy, which we bought of him, and paid in such Prize-Goods as we had left of the Bark’s Cargo cheap enough. They are poor People, and will truck at any Price for what they want, in such Payments as they can make.

[Sidenote: _In the Bay of St. Vincent._]

_Octob. 7._ We sent our Boat at Three this Morning to see if our Linguist was return’d. The Deputy-Governour told us he promis’d him to wait at the Water-side all that night where we put him ashore, and that there were Cattel for us if we would fetch ’em. We were ready to sail: A good Wind at N E. and a fresh Gale.

_Octob. 8._ Our Boat return’d yesterday in the Afternoon with two good black Cattel, one for each Ship, but no News of our Linguist; upon which we consulted with the Officers of both Ships, and all unanimously agreed, that we had better leave him behind, than to wait with two Ships for one Man that had not follow’d his Orders. We held a Committee on board the _Dutchess_ to prevent Embezlements in Prizes, and to hinder Feuds and Disorders amongst our Officers and Men for the future, because the small Prize had shew’d us, that without a Method to be strictly observ’d in Plunder, it might occasion the worst of Consequences to both Ships, and such Quarrels as would not easily be laid. So with the Consent and Approbation of the Officers appointed for a Committee, we unanimously agreed on it, to prevent those Mutinies and Disorders amongst the Men of both Ships, who were not yet reconcil’d since the taking the small _Canary_-Prize. They all insisted there was never any Privateer’s Crew hinder’d from Plunder, so that we were forc’d to agree on the following Instrument of a Dividend, when we should meet with any Prize. And that the things we deem’d to be Plunder, according to custom in Privateering, should tend as little as possible to the disadvantage of the Owners, we did for that end take care by the second Article in the said Instrument and Agreement with the Men, to reserve the Power of adjudging what should be deem’d Plunder, unto the superior Officers and Agents exclusive of the Crew, _&c._ For we found it would be next to a miracle to keep the Men in both Ships under Command, and willing to fight resolutely on occasion, if we held ’em to the Letter of Agreement with the Owners, which was not duly consider’d of at home. We had a particular Regard however to the Sentiments of the Owners, deliver’d on this head in Discourses at several times with divers of the Committee, as my self, Capt. _Dover_, Capt. _Courtney_, Mr. _Robert Frye_, and Mr. _Carleton Vanbrugh_; and particularly in _Kingroad_ to the Men, at the time of signing of their Instrument. By all which we judg’d that the Owners could not but approve of the Measures that we took on this occasion, and that the good effects of ’em would abundantly answer our Intentions. Altho the Officers and Men did voluntarily allow Capt. _Courtney_ and me 5 _per Cent._ each, out of the Value of all Plunder, it was much less than our Due; and we would have been glad to have let all alone, provided we could with the Advice of our chief Officers in both Ships have contriv’d any other Method to be safe in the Prosecution of our Designs with our Men, and have kept them to their Duty on all occasions, at so great a distance from home: without their being easy, we must unavoidably have run into such continual Scenes of Mischief and Disorder, as have not only tended to the great Hindrance, but generally to the total Disappointment of all Voyages of this nature, that have been attempted so far abroad in the Memory of Man. The Agreement we made was as follows.

At a Committee held on board the _Dutchess_ the 8_th of October_,
1708. it is agreed by the Officers and Men of both Ships to the
sundry Particulars following.

Impr. _That all Plunder on board each Prize we take by either Ship, shall be equally divided between the Company of both Ships, according to each Man’s respective whole Share, as ship’d by the Owners or their Orders._

2. _That what is Plunder shall be adjudg’d by the superior Officers and Agents in each Ship._