Chapter VIII: Part 8

“In case of seeing one or more Sail, the Signal for chasing, if not out of call, is to clew up our Maintop-gallant Sheets, with the Yards aloft. And the general method we design to take in chasing, is, for the Ship that sails best, or is nearest the Chase, to chase directly after the Sail discover’d, and the other to keep to or from the Shore at a convenient distance, as occasion shall require, to prevent being known. And if the Ship that is nearest the Chase believes her to be too big for one Ship alone, then to make the same Signal, or any other plainer to be distinguish’d than the Signal for the Chase: And if either Ship comes up with the Chase, and have her in possession or under command, if in the day, to show a white Jack on the Maintop-Mast head; and if in the night, to make two false Fires, and carry as plain Lights as possible.

“To leave off Chase, the Signal by night is one good Light at the Maintop-Mast head; and to fire no Gun, but in a Fog, or very thick Weather, either night or day, to prevent being discover’d.

“To leave off Chase by day, the Signal is to haul down the Top-sails, keeping out our Maintop-gallant Stay-Sail; and in case of losing Company, we refer our selves to our weekly Signals to discover each other.

“In case either Ship in Chase or otherways should run into any danger of Shoal-Water or other kind, then the Ship in such danger is to fire a Gun with a Shot, and to stand from it.

“In case of a Separation, each Ship as they enter _Lobos_ to carry an _English_ Pennant at the Foretop-Mast head; and if the other happens to be there, she must show her _English_ Colours. And if either Ship anchor short of the Road, she shall put out three Lights, _viz._ at the Maintop-Mast head, Poop, Boltsprit end.

“Either Ship arriving at _Lobos_, and not finding his Consort there, he is immediately to set up two Crosses, one at the Landing-place nearest the farther end of the Starboard great Island going in, with a Glass-Bottle hid under ground 20 Yards directly North from each Cross, with Intelligence of what has happen’d since parting, and what their further Designs are. This to be done and in readiness, that if they give Chase, or be forc’d out by the Enemy, the missing Ship may not want Intelligence from her Consort.”

We began this Method at _Cork_, to secure the best place we could possible to rendevouz at; hoping by this means and our Signals always to keep Company, and know each other thro the whole Voyage. These Directions being something particular, made me insert them in the Journal.

_Febr. 13._ Yesterday in the Afternoon we sent our Yall a fishing, and got near 200 large Fish in a very little time, which we salted for our future spending. This Morning we concluded what we began last night, being the foregoing Agreement to direct our Affairs from this place; and as all our Success depends on a strict Secrecy, the Precautions may not be useless.

[Sidenote: _Sailing from the Coasts of Chili._]

_Febr. 14._ Yesterday about three in the Afternoon we weigh’d, had a fair pleasant Gale at S S E. Mr. _Vanbrugh_ came on board our Ship again, and exchang’d with Mr. _Bath_, I hope for the best. Course N. Lat. 32. 32. Long. W. from _London_, 83. 06.

_Febr. 16._ Had moderate Gales of Wind with Calms. This Morning I went on board the _Dutchess_, with Capt. _Dover_ and Capt. _Dampier_, and din’d there. Wind at S.

_Febr. 17._ Most part of this 24 hours was calm, and cloudy Weather. About ten a clock we hoisted our Boat out, and fetch’d Capt _Courtney_ and Capt. _Cook_ to dine with us: whilst they were on board, we settled and sign’d the following Instrument, one for each Ship, further to secure our Methods, and to regulate the Affair of Plunder, which if well follow’d will prevent the bad effects of so dangerous an Obstacle to our good Proceedings; which has prov’d too hard a Task for all others in our time that have gone out on the same account, so far from _Great Britain_: which I believe is chiefly owing either to want of Unity or good Measures. God be thank’d we have a good Concord between each Ships Company hitherto.

At a Committee held by the Officers of the _Duke_ and _Duchess_, 17
Febr. 1708/9.

_Mr._ George Underhill, _Mr._ David Wilson,
_Mr._ Lanc. Appleby, _Mr._ Sam. Worden:

_You being chosen by the Officers and Men on board the_ Duke, _to be Managers of the Plunder which we may take in our Cruising at Sea on the Coast of_ New Spain, _’tis our Order that Mr._ Lanc. Appleby _and Mr._ Samuel Warden _do go and continue aboard the_ Dutchess, _in the place of two other Men from them; who are to search all Persons that return from such Prize or Prizes that may be taken by either Ship: as also all Persons that the Captains of either Ship shall give leave, whose Advice you are continually to follow, and apply to them for Assistance, if occasion require; and immediately to inform of any Persons belonging to either Ship, that shall be perceiv’d to use clandestine Methods to hide Plunder, or endeavour to avoid the searching them._

_If the Ships_ Duke _and_ Dutchess _are separated when any Prize it taken, then one of you is to be on board the Prize, and the other to remain on board the Ship; and in each place be very strict, and keep an exact Account of what comes to your hands, and as soon as possible secure it in such manner as the Captain of either Ship shall direct: still observing the Command of the superior Officer on board the Prize, who is also to assist you to the utmost of his power._

_If any Person not concern’d in this Order, nor employ’d in the same by Capt._ Courtney, _concerns himself with the Plunder, except the Commanding Officer, you are to forbid him; and if he disobeys, to give immediate Information of such Person or Persons._

_You are not to incumber the Boats with Chests or Plunder out of any Prize at first coming aboard, but mind what you see. And the first thing you are to do, is to take account of what you find aboard that is Plunder, and remove nothing without the Captains of either Ship’s Orders; or in case of their Absence, of the chief Officer or Officers of either Ship that shall be aboard the Prize, to avoid Trouble and Disturbance._

_You are by no means to be rude in your Office, but to do every thing as quiet and easy as possible; and to demean your selves so towards those employ’d by Capt._ Courtney, _that we may have no manner of Disturbance or Complaint: still observing that you be not overaw’d, nor deceiv’d of what is your Due, in the behalf of the Officers and Men._

_The Persons appointed to be Managers by the_ Dutchess, _were the underwritten_,

John Connely, Simon Fleming,
Simon Hatley, Barth. Rowe.

_To whom the foregoing Orders were also given, and sign’d by the Committee._

Tho. Dover, _President_, Carleton Vanbrugh,
Woodes Rogers, John Bridge,
Stephen Courtney, William Stratton,
William Dampier, John Rogers,
Edward Cooke, John Connely,
Robert Frye, William Bath,
Charles Pope, Geo. Milbourne,
Tho. Glendall, John Ballet.

_Febr. 17._ Capt. _Courtney_ and Capt. _Cooke_ being aboard, we agreed that Mr. _Appleby_ should appear for the Officers on board the _Dutchess_, and _Samuel Worden_ for the Men: Mr. _Simon Hatley_ and _Simon Fleming_ were to have the like Charge on board of us, to manage the Plunder according to the foregoing Orders.

[Sidenote: _Our Approach near Lima._]

_Febr. 18._ About three Yesterday afternoon, we saw the Main dist. 9 Ls. it’s very high Land, with several Islands.

_Febr. 28._ Yesterday afternoon we came within about 6 Ls. of very high Land. This Morning we put both Pinnaces in the Water, to try them under Sail, having fix’d them with each a Gun after the manner of a Patterero,[126] and all things necessary for small Privateers; hoping they’l be serviceable to us in little Winds to take Vessels. Wind at S. and S by E.

_March 1._ Having little Wind and smooth Water, we heel’d both Ships and tallow’d.

_Mar. 2._ We are in sight of Land, dist. 12 or 14 Ls. Within the Country there’s a vast high Ridge of Mountains, nam’d _Cordilleras_, all along this Course; some parts I believe are full as high, if not higher, than the _Pico Teneriff_, with Snow on the top. We had a good Observ. Lat. 17. 03. Longit. 70. 29. West from _London_.

_March 4._ Fine pleasant Weather, with fresh Gales of Wind. This day we came to an Allowance of three Pints of Water a Man _per_ day, tho we had a good stock aboard. My reason for it was, that we might keep at Sea some time and take some Prizes, and not be forc’d to discover our selves by watring, before we attempted any thing ashore; because an Enemy being once discover’d, there’s nothing of Value, as I’m informed, puts to Sea from one end of the Coast to the other. They have great Conveniences of giving notice by Expresses and strict Orders for all Officers on the Shore to keep Lookers-out upon every Head-Land.

_Mar. 8._ Fine pleasant Weather, a brisk Gale at S E. At three this Morning we lay by, and at six saw the Land dist. about 14 Ls. after which I made sail. The _Dutchess_ had a Boy fell out of the Mizen-top down on the Deck, and broke his Leg; of which he is in a fair way to recover. Lat. 12. 31. Longit. 84. 58.

_Mar. 9._ Fair Weather, a moderate Gale at S E. We go under an easy Sail, in hopes of seeing rich Ships either going or coming out of _Lima_, being now near it. We keep about 7 Ls. from Shore, to prevent our being discover’d. We shall not lie long here, but design to go for _Lobos_ to build our Boats, and get things ready to land at _Guiaquil_.

_Mar. 10._ Pleasant Weather, moderate Gales at S E. This Morning, perceiving white Rocks at a distance which look’d like Ships, we brought to, and sent our Boats under the shore, having kept them ready a-stern four days, that if we saw a Sail near the Shore, they might take them, to prevent their discovering us to those on the Continent.

_Mar. 13._ Fair Weather, moderate Gales at S E. This Morning we ran near Land, and the _Dutchess_ kept in the Offing, to see if we could meet any of the Traders; there being, as I am inform’d, Ships of good Value sometimes on this Coast. Our Men begin to repine, that tho come so far, we have met with no Prize in these Seas.

_Mar. 14._ The Nights are very cold in comparison of the Days, which are warm enough, but not so hot as I expected in this Latitude. Here’s never any Rain, but great Dews in the night, almost equivalent to it, tho the Air be generally serene. At eight last night we hal’d up N N W. for the Island _Lobos_.

_Mar. 15._ We saw Land yesterday, and supposing it was _Lobos_, stood off and on all night. In the Morning it prov’d very hazy till ten, when we saw it again right a-head; we stood nearer till we were convinc’d it was not _Lobos_, but the main Land of _Peru_ within it: so we stood off at twelve, and had a good Observ. Lat. 6. 55.

_Mar. 16._ Yesterday afternoon we spy’d a Sail; our Consort being nearest, soon took her. She was a little Vessel of about 16 Tun belonging to _Payta_, and bound to _Cheripe_ for Flower, with a small Sum of Money aboard to purchase it. The Master’s Name was _Antonio Heliagos_, a _Mustees_, begotten between an _Indian_ and a _Spaniard_: his Company was eight Men, one of them a _Spaniard_, one a _Negro_, and the rest _Indians_. We ask’d them for News, and they assur’d us that all the _French_ ships, being seven in number, sail’d out of these Seas six months ago, and that no more were to return; adding, That the _Spaniards_ had such an Aversion to them, that at _Callo_ the Sea-Port for _Lima_ they kill’d so many of the _French_, and quarrel’d so frequently with ’em, that none were suffer’d to come ashore there for some time before they sail’d from thence. After we had put Men aboard the Prize, we hal’d off close on a Wind for _Lobos_, having shot within it; and had we not been better inform’d by the Crew of the Prize, might have endanger’d our Ships, by running in farther, because there are Shoals between the Island and the Main. The Prisoners tell us there had been no Enemy in those parts since Capt. _Dampier_, which is above four Years ago. They likewise inform’d us that Capt. _Stradling_’s[127] Ship the _Cinque-Ports_,

[Sidenote: _Arrival at Lobos._]

who was _Dampier_’s Consort, founder’d on the Coast of _Barbacour_, where he with six or seven of his Men were only sav’d; and being taken in their Boat, had been four Years Prisoners at _Lima_, where they liv’d much worse than our Governour _Selkirk_, whom they left on the Island _Juan Fernandez_. This Morning we saw the Island _Lobos_, which bore South about 4 Ls. at Noon it bore S by W. dist. 6 miles. We sent our Pinnace thither mann’d and arm’d, to see if there were any Fishermen upon it and secure ’em, lest they should discover us to the People on the Main.

_Mar. 17._ Yesterday about five in the Evening we got well into anchor, but found no body at the Island. We had 20 fathom Water, clean Ground in the Thorow-fair between the two Islands, above a Cable’s length from each Shore. ’Tis a bold going in and a good Road, the Wind blowing constantly over Land. We resolv’d here to fit out our small Bark for a Privateer, she being well built for sailing; and this Morning we had her into a small round Cove in the Southermost Island, where we haul’d her up dry on the Land. The Carpenters also got the Timber ashore, to build our Boat for landing Men.

_Mar. 18._ In the Evening we launch’d our small Privateer, having clean’d her Bottom well, call’d her the _Beginning_, and appointed Capt. _Cooke_ to command her. We got a small spare Mast out of our Ship, which made her a new Main-Mast, and our Mizen-top Sail was alter’d to make her a Main-Sail. The _Dutchess_ heel’d, and clean’d their Ship. This Morning I got all our sick Men ashore, and built Tents for them: the _Dutchess_ also landed hers. We agreed to stay the building of our Boat and fitting out the Privateer, while the _Dutchess_ cruis’d about the Island, and in sight of the Main.

_Mar. 19._ Yesterday afternoon we sent the Yall a fishing, got the Bark rigg’d, and almost ready, with four Swivel-Guns and a Deck near finish’d. This Morning the _Dutchess_ sail’d a cruising, and appointed to meet the Bark off the South-East End of the Island.

_Mar. 20._ The Bark being got ready, this Morning we victual’d her out of our Ship, and put 20 of ours, and 12 of our Consorts Men aboard her well arm’d. I saw her out of the Harbour with our Pinnance, she looks very pretty, and I believe will sail well in smooth Water, having all Masts, Sails, Rigging, and Materials, like one of the Half-Galley’s fitted out for her Majesty’s Service in _England_: They gave our Ship’s Company three Huzza’s, and we return’d them the like at parting. I told Capt. _Cooke_, if we should be forc’d out of the Road, or give Chase hence, we would leave a Glass-Bottle bury’d near a remarkable great Stone, that I show’d him, with Letters in it, to give an account how it was with us, of the occasion of our Departure, and where to meet again: I bid him acquaint Capt. _Courtney_ with it.

_Mar. 22._ This Morning a _Spaniard_ belonging to us, nam’d _Silvester Ramos_, died suddenly, and we buried him at night. Most of our Men are healthy, except two or three who are ill of the Scurvey.

_Mar. 23._ This Morning we began to scrub our Ship, and clear’d abundance of Barnacles off her Bottom, almost as large as Muscles. A Ship grows foul very fast in these Seas.

_Mar. 25._ We caught plenty of very good Fish. The Seals are numerous here, but not so many as at _Juan Fernandez_: A large one seiz’d a stout _Dutchman_, had like to have pull’d him into the Water, and bit him to the bone in several places, in one of his Arms and Legs.

_Mar. 26._ This Morning the _Dutchess_ came in with a Prize call’d the _Santa Josepha_, bound from _Guiaquil_ to _Truxillo_, Burden about 50 Tuns, full of Timber, with some Cocou, and Coco-Nuts, and Tobacco which we distributed among our Men: The _Dutchess_ and _Beginning_ took her between this Island and the Main; she had very little of Value on board.

_Mar. 27._ This Morning we gave our Ship a good heel, and tallow’d her low down. A _Dutchman_ belonging to the _Dutchess_ died of the Scurvy ashore, and was buried on the Island.

_Mar. 30._ Yesterday afternoon we got the second Prize (which we call’d the _Increase_) aboard us, and clean’d her. We brought all off shore, and launch’d our new Boat to tow at our stern, and at ten a clock came to sail, after we had put Mr. _Stratton_ to command the _Beginning_, and all our sick Men and a Doctor of each Ship aboard the _Increase_, of which Mr. _Selkirk_, our second Mate, was appointed Master.

[Sidenote: _Description of Lobos._]

By Observation we had here, this Island lies in Lat. 6. 50. S. the Variation 3. 30. Easterly; and I reckon it lies in the Longitude of 87. 35. West from _London_. The two largest Islands, call’d _Lobos de la Mar_ (to distinguish them from others call’d _Lobos de la Terra_, within 2 Ls. of the Land) are about 16 Ls. from the Main, and 6 Miles in length. There’s another small Island close by the Eastermost to Windward, not half a mile long, with some Rocks and Breakers near the Shore, all round and off of each side of the Entrance to the Road, which is bold and has no visible Danger. There’s a Passage for Boats to Windward, to come into the Road, which is to the Leeward of these Islands in a Sound between them. ’Tis not half a mile broad, but above a mile deep has from 10 to 20 fathom Water, and good Anchor-ground: there’s no coming in for Ships, but to Leeward of the Islands. We went in with a small Weather-Tide, tho I never perceiv’d it flow above 3 foot whilst we lay here. The Wind commonly blows Southerly, veering a little to the Eastward: on the Eastermost Island (which was on our Larboard side as we lay at anchor in the Sound) there is a round Hummock, and behind it a small Cove very smooth, deep, and convenient enough for a Ship to careen in; there we haul’d up, and fitted our little Frigat. The highest part of the Island appears in the Road not much higher than a large Ship’s Top-Mast head. The Soil is a hungry white clayish Earth, mix’d with Sand and Rocks. There’s no fresh Water, or green things on the Islands: Here’s abundance of Vultures, _alias_ Carrion-Crows, which look’d so like Turkeys, that one of our Officers at landing bless’d himself at the sight, and hop’d to fare deliciously here. He was so eager, that he would not stay till the Boat could put him ashore, but leap’d into the Water with his Gun, and getting near enough to a parcel, let fly at ’em; but when he came to take up his Game, it stunk insufferably, and made us merry at his Mistake. The other Birds here are Penguins, Pellicans, Boobys, Gulls, and a sort of Fowls like Teal, that nestle in holes on the Land. Our Men got Loads of ’em, which they skin’d, and prais’d them for very good Meat. We found abundance of Bull-Rushes and empty Jars that the _Spanish_ Fishermen had left ashore. All over this Coast they use Jars instead of Casks, for Oil, Wine, and all other sorts of Liquids. Here’s abundance of Seals and some Sea-Lions; the Seals are much larger than at _Juan Fernandez_, but the Fur not so fine. Our People kill’d several with a design to eat their Livers; but one of our Crew, a _Spaniard_, dying suddenly after eating ’em, I forbad the use of ’em. Our Prisoners told us, they accounted those old Seals very unwholesom. The Wind always blowing fresh over the Land, brought an ugly noisom Smell aboard from the Seals ashore; which gave me a violent Head-Ach, and every body else complain’d of this nauseous Smell; we found nothing so offensive at _Juan Fernandez_.

Our Prisoners tell us, they expect the Widow of the late Vice-Roy of _Peru_ would shortly embark for _Aquapulco_, with her Family and Riches, and stop at _Payta_ to refresh, or sail near in sight as customary, in one of the King’s Ships of 36 Guns; and that about eight months ago there was a Ship with 200000 Pieces of Eight aboard, the rest of her Cargo Liquors and Flower, which had pass’d _Payta_ for _Aquapulco_: she would have been a welcome Prize to us, but since she is gone, it’s not worth while to follow her. Our Prisoners added, That they left Signior _Morel_ in a stout Ship with dry Goods for _Lima_, recruiting at _Payta_, where he expected in few days a _French_-built Ship, belonging to the _Spaniards_, to come from _Panama_ richly laden, with a Bishop aboard. _Payta_ is a common Recruiting-place to those who go to or from _Lima_, or most Ports to Windward, in their Trade to _Panama_, or any part of the Coast of Mexico. Upon this Advice we agreed to spend as much time as possible cruising off of _Payta_, without discovering our selves, for fear of hindring our other Designs.

At these Islands Capt. _Dampier_ in his last Voyage left his Ship the _St. George_ at anchor, and went to the _East-Indies_ in a _Spanish_ Brigantine with about 25 Men: After he had plunder’d _Puna_ in 1704. and water’d his small Bark near it, he endur’d many Hardships, and for want of his Commission to show (which he lost at _Puna_) he was imprison’d, and had all his Goods seiz’d in the _Indies_ by the _Dutch_.

Before we came hither, we held a Committee, and publish’d an Order in both Ships, forbidding our Officers or Men on severe Penalties to hold any Correspondence, or talk any thing that in the least concerns the Voyage, with our Prisoners; which was strictly observ’d, to prevent the Discovery of our Designs to the _Spaniards_.

_April 1._ Small Gales, fair clear Weather. This Morning I went in our Yall on board the _Dutchess_, and afterwards spoke with the _Beginning_. We agreed how to act, in case we see more than one Sail at a time to chase.

[Sidenote: _From Lobos to the Northward._]

_April 2._ Yesterday in the Afternoon we were surpriz’d with the Colour of the Water, which look’d as red as Blood for several miles, occasion’d by the Spawn of Fish. This Morning at Daybreak we spy’d a Sail about 2 Ls. to Windward: We immediately hoisted out and mann’d our Pinnace, commanded by Mr. _Frye_ my chief Lieutenant, who by eight in the Morning took the Ship; she was call’d the _Ascension_, built Galeon-fashion, very high with Galleries, Burden between 4 and 500 Tun, two Brothers being Commanders, _viz._ _Joseph_ and _John Morel_. She was laden with dry Goods and Timber, had above 50 Negroes, and several Passengers bound from _Panama_ to _Lima_.

_April 3._ We immediately mann’d this Prize, took some of the _Spaniards_ out of her, and put in Mr. _Frye_ Commander. We found a good stock of fresh Provisions on board. In the Evening we saw another Sail, which the _Beginning_ took, and brought her to the rest this Morning: She was a Vessel of 35 Tuns, laden with Timber from _Guiaquil_ to _Chancay_ near _Lima_; the Master’s Name was _Juan Guastellos_, the Crew 11 white Men and 1 Negro. We agreed with the _Dutchess_ and _Beginning_ when and where to meet; and having all our Stations appointed, they left us. We were inform’d by the Prisoners, that the Bishop of _Chokeaqua_, a Place far up the Country in the South Parts of _Peru_, was to have come from _Panama_ in this Vessel for _Lima_, in his way to the said Bishoprick; but the Ship springing a Leak at _Panama_, he went on board a _French_-built Ship belonging to the _Spaniards_ that was following them for _Lima_, but would stop at _Payta_ to recruit, as the _Morels_ had done. Being near that place, we resolve to watch narrowly in order to catch the Ship with his Lordship.

_April 4._ About six in the Evening we parted with Mr. _Frye_ in the great Prize, having order’d him with the two other Prizes to keep together, and ply about 8 Ls. off shore in sight of the Hummocks call’d the Saddle of _Payta_, because they appear in that shape with low Land betwixt ’em. We stood in for the Shore, and next Morning saw a Ship to Leeward, and gave chase; she made a Signal, by which we knew her to be the _Dutchess_; but being at a distance, and we not having kept out our Signal long enough, they did not see it. We kept on sail till we came near her, which made them clear their Ship in order to fight: I did this to surprize them, and at Noon went on board.

_April 5._ I kept the _Dutchess_ company till the Evening; and whilst I was on board her, the _Beginning_ came down to us. We agreed on an exact Station; the _Beginning_ to keep close in with _Payta_, the _Dutchess_ 8 Ls. to Leeward, and I to lie right off of _Payta_ about 7 or 8 Ls. a little to Windward. Just as the sun set I left them; they fancy’d they saw a Sail, and chas’d in great haste: but we saw nothing except the blowing of a Whale, of which there are abundance on this Coast. Wind from the S E by S. to the E S E.

_April 6._ We came up with our three Prizes about four a clock in the Afternoon, and found all in good order. Mr. _Frye_ had fitted out the great Boat we built at _Lobos_, which we call a Launch, with Sails and Oars, ready to give chase if they saw any thing in little Winds, having Men enough for that end, in these peaceable Seas, where they are in no fear of an Enemy.

_April 7._ At eight this Morning the Saddle of _Payta_ bore E N E. 7 Ls. at Noon N E. dist. 10 Ls. I went on board the Galeon to Mr. _Frye_, and station’d him again, leaving Signals for the other two, if he saw ’em; and after having din’d on a good Quarter of Mutton and Cabbage with him, which is a great Rarity to us here, I came on board, in order to leave him the second time.

Mr. _Vanbrugh_ threatning to shoot one of our Men at _Lobos_, only for refusing to carry some Carrion-Crows that he shot, and having lately abus’d Capt. _Dover_, as he said; the latter desir’d a Committee might be call’d to examine into Mr. _Vanbrugh_’s Conduct, and we came to the following Issue: _That Mr._ Vanbrugh _had committed sundry Misdemeanours, and according to our Orders, we not believing him a fit Person to be one of the Committee, had chosen Mr._ Samuel Hopkins _in his stead_. Which was sign’d, and agreed to by all the Committee in both Ships.

At the same time, while we were together, we had a second Committee; which concluded as follows.

_We have examin’d and do approve of all the Proceedings and
Transactions since our leaving the Island of_ Grande _on the Coast
of_ Brazile, _both as to punishing Offenders, our Dispatch at_ Juan
Fernandez, _and staying at_ Lobos _to build our Boat, and acting in
all cases for the best of our intended Voyage to this time. In
Testimony of which, we have set our Hands the Day and Year
above-written._

Sign’d by all the chief Officers in both Ships.

_April 11._ Yesterday afternoon we all met aboard the _Duke_, to consult how to act; for beginning to grow short of Water, we can’t keep the Sea much longer.

[Sidenote: _From Lobos to the Northward._]

_April 12._ This Morning we came to a full Resolution to land and attempt _Guiaquil_. In order thereunto we fix’d two Barks, put Ammunition and Arms on board them, with our four Quarter-Deck Guns and Field-Carriages. And for the Management of this Expedition, we held a Committee, and resolv’d on the following Particulars.

At a Committee held on board the _Duke-Frigot_

_We have consulted and examin’d sundry Pilots taken in Prizes, and had several Meetings on this Occasion, being provided with convenient Vessels to carry our Men, Guns, Arms, and other Necessaries to_ Guiaquil: _We resolve to attempt it, having also consulted the most secret way of managing our Attempts on it without discovery. We do approve and appoint Capt._ Tho. Dover, _Capt._ Woodes Rogers, _and Capt._ Stephen Courtney, _to command the Men design’d to land in three equal Parties; except 21 Men with Capt._ William Dampier _and Mr._ Tho. Glendall, _who are to manage and take care of the Guns, Ammunition, Provisions_, &c. _which we agree to be lodg’d in a convenient place, as near as possible to the best Landing-place nearest the Water-side, in order to take care and help ship off the Effects that we may take in the Town; who are also to serve either Commander, where most wanted._

_We leave the Management of this Expedition wholly to the prudent Conduct of the above Commanders, whom we heartily wish and desire to consult each other on all occasions, as the most promising Method to succeed and keep our Designs secret; which is the only way to prevent the Enemies removing their Wealth, or giving us a vigorous Reception. This is our Opinion; in witness whereof we have set our Hands, the_ 12_th of_ April 1709.

Sign’d by all the chief Officers in both Ships.

Memorandum,

_We have considered the Opinion of the foregoing Committee sign’d this Day, and do jointly concur with them, and accordingly design to prosecute it with our Lives and Fortunes to the utmost of our Power and Judgment. Witness our Hands, this_ 12_th Day of_ April 1709.

Tho. Dover, _Presid._ Stephen Courtney.
Woodes Rogers,

_April 13._ We appointed an Officer to every ten Men, to prevent Disorders, and stragling ashore.

The Committee having agreed on our Method of Command, left it to us jointly and vigorously to attack the Enemy ashore; we knew that Misfortunes attend Sailors when out of their Element: and hearing that they began to murmur about the Encouragement they were to expect for Landing, which they alledg’d was a risque more than they were ship’d for; to prevent their Desertion, which we had reason to apprehend, since they were a mix’d Gang of most _European_ Nations, we the Commanders agreed on the most plausible Methods we could then think of, to form a good Discipline among ’em, if possible, and to give ’em all needful Encouragement, that we might depend on their good Order and Bravery; and therefore came to the following Resolves.

_Whereas as it is agreed to land and take the Town of_ Guiaquil, _we fully resolve to do it with all manner of Privacy and Dispatch; and that we our selves and our Men may have full Encouragement to attempt it bravely and cheerfully, we publish this following Order._

Imprim. _All manner of Bedding and Clothes without stripping, all manner of Necessaries, Gold Rings, Buckles, Buttons, Liquors, and Provisions for our own expending and use, with all sorts of Arms and Ammunition, except great Guns for Ships, is Plunder, and shall be divided equally amongst the Men of each Ship, with their Prizes, wither aboard or ashore, according to the whole Shares._

[Sidenote: _Sailing towards Guiaquil._]

2. _It is also agreed, that any sort of wrought Silver or Gold Crucifixes, Gold and Silver Watches, or any other Movables found about the Prisoners, or wearing Apparel of any kind, shall likewise be Plunder: Provided always we make this Reserve, that Mony and Womens Ear-Rings, with loose Diamonds, Pearls, and precious Stones be excepted. And if any thing is short and omitted in this Publication, we do hereby declare, that when this Expedition is over, every particular Man shall have a Hearing; or the Persons already appointed for the Company of both Ships, may come to us, and insist on what is or ought to be deem’d Plunder, either more or less than what is here inserted; and that a general Committee of the Officers of both Ships shall immediately meet, and at once resolve if any mors is or ought to be Plunder. And that we shall give all manner of Encouragement, without Fraud to the Owners, or Prejudice to our selves, Officers, and Men, in the same manner as agreed on at the Island of_ St. Vincent _on this head: Provided always that our Intent and Meaning for the Mens Encouragement be not made liable to a Construction prejudicial to the Owners, or Ships Companies Interest; and that under pretence of the aforesaid Movables allow’d to be Plunder, no Person whatsoever do seize on, or clandestinely hide any wrought or unwrought Gold or Silver, Pearls, Jewels, Diamonds, and other precious Stones, which are not found about the Prisoners, or their wearing Apparel; which shall be accounted a high Misdemeanour, and punish’d severely: And that no Person do presume to keep any Plunder, but immediately deliver it to his Officers publickly, and carry it directly to the Place appointed for Plunder._

_In case this or any other Town, Fort, Ships, or the like, be taken in this Expedition by Storm, then the same Encouragement shall be allow’d each Man, as agreed on at_ St. Vincent, _over and above the Gratuity promis’d by the Owners, to such as shall signalize themselves in time of Action, as by their Instrument appears. But if any Party of ours, or the whole, or any separate Body shall be engag’d with the Enemy on shore, and become Victors, then all Prisoners, the Mony, Arms, and Movables about ’em, are immediately on that place to be brought to the Officer or Officers of that Body or Party, and put into a general Stock, to be divided proportionately amongst those only of our Men that were engag’d in that Action, who are to enjoy the whole Reputation and Right of it to themselves._

_And tho there had been nothing yet taken worth a Division of Plunder, we don’t question but the effecting this good Enterprize will equally encourage us all, and that we shall gladly and expeditiously get the Wealth of the Town brought to the places appointed on shore. There shall at the same time be several Places appointed, and Men to receive Plunder, and a sufficient time before we leave the Town allow’d to ship it off by it self, and Men appointed to take care and an account of it; which, with all other Plunder, shall be enter’d in publick Books: and when we come on board, we hope and design to divide it equally, to the Satisfaction of all concern’d._

_And to prevent all manner of pernicious and mischievous Ill-Conduct that may accrue by Disorders on shore, we pressingly remind you, that any Officer or other that shall be so brutish as to be drunk ashore in an Enemy’s Country, shall not only be severely punish’d, but lose all share of whatsoever is taken in this Expedition. The same Punishment shall be inflicted on any that disobeys Command, or runs from his Post, discourages our Men, or is cowardly in any Action, or presumes to burn or destroy any thing in the Town without our Order, or for mischief sake; or that shall be so sneakingly barbarous to debauch themselves with any Prisoners on shore, where we have more generous things to do, both for our own Benefit and the future Reputation of our selves and our Country. We shall always take care to keep Prisoners of the best Note, as Pledged for our Men that may be accidentally missing: for as soon as any Man is wanting, we shall engage the_ Spaniards _to bring him to us, or give a satisfactory account of him. But we desire no Man to trust to this, or be a moment from his Officers and Post. And if all the foregoing Rules be strictly follow’d, we hope to exceed all other Attempts of this nature before us in these Parts; and not only to enrich and oblige our selves and Friends, but even to gain Reputation from our Enemies. Dated and sign’d on board the_ Duke, _the_ 13_th of_ April, 1709.

Tho. Dover, _Pres._ Stephen Courtney.
Woode Rogers.

_April 14._ This Morning we got all our Arms, Ammunition, and Provisions, with part of our Men, _&c._ aboard. Our Bark being the largest, we took in part of Capt. _Courtney’s_ Men; and his Bark carrying the rest, we stood into the great Bay of _Guiaquil_ all night, designing to leave the Ships a good distance at Sea, for fear of being discover’d from the Town call’d _Tombes_, which lying on the Starboard side going in, would ruin our Design. Wind at South, but very little. Lat. 4. 23. 85. 42.

[Sidenote: _Sailing towards Guiaquil._]

_April 15._ At Break of Day we saw a Ship between us and the Land: being calm, we sent off both our Pinnaces mann’d and arm’d. But our Men expecting no Resistance from that Ship, they hurry’d from us, left out their Swivel-Gun, and carry’d but a slender Stock of Arms with them. My Brother _John Rogers_ being unfortunately aboard our Ship, to assist me in getting ready, because he was to be Lieutenant of my Company ashore, he stept into our Boat. I had before this oppos’d his landing, which he resented as a Slight; and this hinder’d me stopping him now, tho it was not his business, he being second Lieutenant of our Consort, and we having Officers enough of our own for that Service: but Mr. _Frye_, who commanded the Boat, being related to us, was the occasion of my Brother’s Willingness to go as a Volunteer with him. The _Dutchess’s_ Pinnace was worse provided than ours, and had not Arms enough for their Men, as Capt. _Cooke_ told me afterwards. About nine a clock our Boat came within shot of the Ship, which prov’d to be the _French_-built Ship belonging to _Lima_, the same we have been a cruising for. They hoisted their _Spanish_ Ensign in its place, and a Flag at their Top-Mast-Head; which our Boats took to be the Bishop’s Banner, because it was broad, made of white Sattin and fring’d, which was unusual Colours in Ships. They fir’d a Gun at our Boat, which lay still above half an hour before the _Dutchess_ Pinnace came up, she not rowing so well as ours. When they came up, Capt. _Cooke_, Mr. _Frye_, and my Brother consulted how to begin the Attack with advantage: They agreed that our Boat should ply her under the Stern, and the other on the Bow, till they could get near enough to board at once. But when they came up, the _Spaniards_ brought a Gun right aft, and upwards of twenty small Arms pointed into the Boats; so that the Fight began before they could reach the Station agreed on, and both were forc’d to engage the Enemy abaft, where they had five Guns mounted. Our People were constrain’d to fall a-stern twice, after the loss of one Man kill’d and three wounded. The Boats and Sails were much damag’d by the Enemies Partridge-shot,[128] yet they again attempted to come up and board her. At this Attack my unfortunate Brother was shot thro the Head, and instantly died, to my unspeakable Sorrow: but as I began this Voyage with a Resolution to go thro it, and the greatest Misfortune or Obstacle shall not deter me, I’ll as much as possible avoid being thoughtful and afflicting my self for what can’t be recall’d, but indefatigably pursue the Concerns of the Voyage, which has hitherto allow’d little Respite. Our Men, upon this Disaster, left engaging, and put all their spare Men and Arms into the _Dutchess_’s Boat; who was to keep between the Enemy and the Shore, to prevent them from landing their Riches. Our Ships having little Wind, were yet at a distance; and our Boat came aboard after noon, with two dead and three wounded Men.

_April 16._ We got possession of the _Spanish_ Ship about two yesterday in the afternoon. She had upwards of 50 _Spaniards_ and above 100 Negroes, _Indians_, and Molattoes on board. They would not strike till within half-shot of our Ships: The _Dutchess_ being somewhat nearest, fir’d two Shot over her, and then she struck, and bore down to us. But we miss’d the Bishop, who ten days before landed at Point _St. Hellena_, with his Attendants, Plate, _&c._ designing to stop at _Guiaquil_. This Morning we saw a small Sail under the shore; we sent our Pinnace and the _Beginning_, who brought her off to us: she prov’d a small Bark from _Payta_ with Soap, Cassa, Fistula, and Leather. About twelve we read the Prayers for the Dead, and threw my dear Brother overboard, with one of our Sailors, another lying dangerously ill. We hoisted our Colours but half-mast up: We began first, and the rest follow’d, firing each some Volleys of small Arms. All our Officers express’d a great Concern for the Loss of my Brother, he being a very hopeful active young Man, a little above twenty Years of Age.

_April 17._ We made ready to go ashore, and read the Encouragement agreed on the 13_th_ to the Men, who all express themselves well pleas’d with the Undertaking, and were so forward to land, that they make all the Interest possible to go ashore; not considering that we must secure a safe Retreat, by leaving a sufficient number on board our Ships to man ’em and guard our Prisoners: but it was a proof of their Courage, since the Advantage was alike, either to stay on board or go ashore. To prevent their stragling when landed, we gave each Man a Ticket, that he might remember what Company he belong’d to; and appointed the best and soberest Man we could pick to command every ten Men under the Captains. Capt. _Courtney_ and I being willing to compliment our President Capt. _Dover_, agreed that he should have the Preference in Command at our Landing: being a considerable Owner in our Ship, he had an equal third part of the Men allotted to be under his Command whilst ashore; we were afterwards to take it in turns.

[Sidenote: _The Isle of Puna._]

_April 18._ Yesterday Afternoon Capt. _Courtney_ and I settl’d every thing on board our Ships and Prizes, and got all the Men design’d for Landing on board the Barks. We proportion’d the rest, and put Irons on board every Ship, because having many more Prisoners than we could leave Men to guard ’em, we must have ’em well secur’d. We agreed to leave on board the _Duke_ 42 Men and Boys, sick and well, _Robert Fry_ Commander; 37 aboard the _Dutchess_, _Edward Cook_ Commander; 14 aboard the Galleon, _John Bridge_ Master; 14 aboard the _Havre de Grace_, _Robert Knowlman_ Master; and 4 aboard the _Beginning_, _Henry Duck_ Master: The whole being 111, and 201 were design’d for the Shore. The Prisoners on board are above 300, more than one half _Spaniards_ and _Indians_, the rest _Negroes_. The Captain and 7 of the chief _Spaniards_ taken in the last Prize I carried aboard our Bark to go with us to the Town, fearing they might be dangerous Persons to leave behind us. Last Midnight we left the Ships, every thing being in good order aboard both Imbarkations. We were, when we parted, about 9 Leagues distant from the Island _Sancta Clara_, and not less than 36 from _Guiaquil_. We order’d Capt. _Cook_ and _Fry_ to keep at Sea undiscover’d 48 Hours, and then to make the best of their way to Point _Arena_, and stay there at an Anchor till our Return, having engag’d Sen. _Morell_ and another _Spaniard_ to be their Pilots. About 12 this Day we pass’d by the Island _Sancta Clara_, having little Wind, and the Weather very hot. This Island appears like a Corps extended, therefore the _Spaniards_ call it _Mortho_; it’s not above two Miles long: We left it on the Starboard-side, which is not the Ships Channel; for none enter that way but Barks, by reason of Shoals both on the Island and towards the Main, within it, to the Northward.

About 10 last Night we came to an Anchor in sight of Point _Arena_ with both Barks, not being able to stem the Tide. At 4 in the Morning we weigh’d, when Capt. _Courtney_ and I, with our Boats and 40 Men, left the Barks, and order’d ’em to lie at _Puna_ one Tide after us, that we might have time to surprize _Guiaquil_ before they should appear in sight of it to alarm them; for we had notice, that they keep a Look-out a League below the Town. We reach’d about half way to _Puna_, and landed on the Island, where we staid during the Ebb Tide, and hid our Boats under the Mangrove Branches. This Island is not passable, being full of thick Mangroves and Swamps, that swarm with Musketo’s.

_April 20._ Yesterday in the Evening we rowed and towed one another with the Flood, that if seen in the Night, we might look like Drift Timber. We had an excellent _Indian_ Pilot, that advis’d us to come to a Graplin[129] about 11 at Night, to lie in our Boats about a Mile short of the Town, and to surprize ’em by Break of Day. We took his Advice, but just as we got in by the Town, saw two Lights by the Water-side in Bark Logs, which we secured with all the Canoes; but an _Indian_ escaping, he alarm’d the People about the Church, who ran into the Woods before we could reach the Houses: However we secur’d the Lieutenant that governs here, with his Family, and about 20 others, who assur’d us there could be no body to give notice of us to _Guiaquil_, now we had secur’d them, and the rest being fled to the Woods. We sent some of our Men, who took the Look-outs at their Posts, and cut all their Canoes and Bark-Logs to pieces there, and also at the Town., The Day was hot, and two of our Men finding Liquors in the Houses, got drunk betimes. This Place has about 30 Houses, and a small Chappel. We found a _Spanish_ Paper here, that gave us some Uneasiness; it was directed to the Lieutenant who had the chief Command here, and orderd him to keep a strict Watch, signifying that they had notice of Capt. _Dampier’s_ coming Pilot to a Squadron into these Seas. The Copy of this Paper was sent from _Lima_ to all inhabited Places on the Coast of _Peru_, signifying, that the _French_ were on the first notice to fit out after us; and the Bark that came from _Paita_ told us of two great Ships that lay in _Callo_ Road, and one at _Pisco_, besides two in _Conception_, a Port of _Chili_; being all _French_ Frigats from 40 to 50 Guns and upwards, notwithstanding the Report of their not coming into these Seas any more. But to our great Satisfaction we are certain, that we were not discover’d before this, and that it’s next to impossible any sufficient Force can arm out from _Lima_, to be here in less than 24 Days, by which time we hope to finish, and be gone where they cannot find us. But since we perceive their Accounts of us imperfect, and that they believe a Squadron comes under Capt. _Dampier’s_ Pilotage, and he being known by the People, because he surprized this Village when last in these Seas; we agreed amongst our selves how to improve this _Spanish_ Story of a Squadron, which I hope will not only hinder their fitting out from _Lima_, but even alarm them there. The Substance of this _Spanish_ Advice Paper, in _English_, is as follows.

_To the Lieutenant General_ Don Hieronimo Boza y Soliz,
_Corregidore and Judge of the City of_ St. Jago de Guiaquil, _under
the Jurisdiction of the Captain General for his Majesty._

“I Have a Letter I received from his Excellency the Lord Marquis _de Castel dos Reys_, Viceroy, Governour, and Captain General of these Kingdoms, with the Copy of another of the tenor following.

[Sidenote: _Before Guiaquil._]

“In the Packet with Letters from _Spain_, which I have received, there are Orders from his Majesty, giving an account of a Squadron of 7 Sail, getting ready at _London_ by several Lords, from 44 to 74 Guns each, to sail to the _South Sea_, under the Conduct of an _English_-man nam’d _Dampier_: That they are first to sail for _Ireland_ in _April_ to victual there, and afterwards to possess themselves of an Island and Harbour in these Seas, and particularly the Island of _Juan Fernandez_. You are to give an account to all those Provinces where ’tis necessary, that they may take proper Measures to guard the Coasts and Harbors. Order _Don Hieronimo_, as soon as he receives this, to give notice of it to the People on all the Coasts under his Jurisdiction to withdraw their Cattle and Provisions, and that he don’t neglect to put this in execution; that so the Enemies finding no Provision, may be oblig’d to retire from these Seas, whither they can’t bring Provision enough to maintain them for so long a Voyage. And let the said _Don Hieronimo_ place Guards on all the Coasts, and in all the Sea-ports where ’tis necessary, with Orders to be vigilant, and carefully to observe every Sail that comes into any Port, and give an account of their Numbers with the utmost dispatch to _Don Hieronimo_ the Corregidore, that he may send the same from one Corregidore to another till it come to the Viceroy’s hands, without fail, all along the Coasts belonging to _Don Hieronimo_, and particularly that those he has given Orders to, do immediately dispatch ’em for the King’s Service. This I trust he will do to all that can give notice of the Enemies Motions, that it may be impossible for ’em to get Provisions on the Coast, when ’tis well guarded, or in the Villages of his Jurisdiction; and I trust to his Activity and Zeal for the Royal Service in a Matter of such weight and consequence; and that he also give notice if there be on the Coasts or Ports in his Jurisdiction any _French_ Ships, as we hear there is in these Seas, and give ’em warning of the Enemy’s Squadron, take a Certificate that he gave ’em such notice, and send it to me, that they mayn’t pretend to have been surpriz’d, if the Enemy get any advantage of ’em. God preserve _Don Hieronimo_, &c.

_Lima_, March _El. Marq. de Castel de los Reyos._
20, 1709. _Don. Hieronimo Boza de Solis_, &c.

“The like Orders are sent to the Lieutenant General, and the other Officers belonging to the Sea Coast, and the Lieutenant of _Puna_, _&c._”