Chapter XXVIII: Front Matter (28)

On the other side of the Island, towards the Main Sea, there is 1. _St. Abad_, a good Haven, and almost surrounded with a pleasant and fruitful Countrey.

2. _Cape Trinidado_, a noted Promontory.

3. _Cape de Cedras_, so call’d (together with a small Island near it) from the store of Cedars growing thereabouts.

4. _Enganno._ 5. _Puebla de las Canoas_, so nam’d from the abundance of those little Boats which the _Americans_ generally use, and do call _Canoos_, whereof perhaps some store are made there.

6. _Cabo de Galera_, from its resemblance to a Rat.

It is believ’d there are many more Promontories and Bays on both sides of this Island, besides Rivers and Islets, yet not nam’d, and altogether unknown. Moreover Dr. _Heylin_ hath well observ’d, that those above-mention’d are the Names onely of Places, and not of Towns and Villages, though doubtless there must needs have been some scatter’d Houses, built formerly by the _Spaniards_ in so many Expeditions.

[Sidenote: _Cortez_ the first Discoverer of these Parts.]

The first Discoverer of these Parts was _Ferdinando Cortez_, who having in the Year 1534. set out two Ships to that purpose from _St. Jago_, a Haven of _New Spain_, and not finding the Success answerable to his Expectation, went next Year himself in Person, and pass’d a good way up the Gulf, but for want of Provisions was forc’d to return without having done any thing to the purpose.

In 1539. one _Francisco_, a Companion of _Cortez_ in the former Expedition, Set out upon his own Charges, and having Coasted all about, both upon the Eastern and Western Shores, he at last Landed, but not without notable opposition from the Natives, who with much clamour, and many antique Gestures set upon his Men so furiously with Stones and Arrows, that they had met with a shrew’d Repulse, had it not been for the Valor of their Auxiliaries, the Mastiff Dogs, which it seems they us’d to carry along with them in those kind of Voyages; but at last he got footing so far, that he took possession in the Name of the King of _Spain_ with the usual Formalities; and following the Example of _Columbus_ set up a Cross in the Place for a Memorial and Testimony of his having been there.

[Sidenote: _Marco de Nisa_ his Relation of these Parts.]

Much about the same time _Marco de Nisa_ a _Franciscan_, undertaking a Voyage into these Parts, reported Wonders at his Return, of the plenty of golden Mines, stately Cities, set out with magnificent Buildings, the very Gates whereof were enrich’d with _Turquoises_, and other Precious Stones, and whose meanest Inhabitants went glittering in Gold and Mother of Pearl, and of the flourishing Condition of the Kingdoms of _Acu_, _Tonteac_, and _Marata_; whereupon the Governor of _New Gallicia_ was sent by the then Vice-Roy of _Mexico_, with great hopes of bringing back a Confirmation of these Reports; but whether out of spite to be deceiv’d in his Expectation, or having real cause so to do, he represented all things as mean and despicable, as the Fryer had proclaim’d them rich and glorious.

[Sidenote: _De Alarcon_ his Voyage.]

The next that went upon this Design was _Ferdinando de Alarcon_, who is reported to have Sail’d many Leagues up a River call’d _Buena Guia_, and there to have receiv’d Homage of _Naguacatus_, one of the Heads of the _Californian_ Tribes.

[Sidenote: _Cabrillo_ his Expedition.]

One more Attempt was made in the Year 1642. by _Roderico Cabrillo_, who discover’d the Island of _St. Luke_, and another call’d _The Island of Possession_; and this was the last we hear of that thought it worth while to go an Undertaker to these Coasts, and ever since all Undertakings hither have been so wholly laid aside, that what-ever was once discover’d in these Parts, seems rather to be lost and forgotten, than any way improv’d.

As for _Nova Albion_, whereas many determine it to be onely the utmost Northern part of _California_, though it doth not absolutely appear to be so from the Relation of Sir _Francis Drake_’s Discovery of it, we judge it agreeable to Method and Decorum not wholly to omit the mention of it in this place, though it hath been already spoken of, and the aforesaid Relation deliver’d at large amongst the rest of those Provinces of largely-taken _California_, which were taken for granted to be upon the Continent.

[Sidenote: _Drakes_ Account of the Countrey.]

_Drake_ and his Company brought home this Description of the Countrey and its Inhabitants, _viz._ _That the Countrey was exceedingly well stor’d with Deer, Grazing up and down the Hills by thousands in a company; That the Men generally went naked all over, the Women using onely a piece of a Mat, or some such thing instead an Apron; That their Houses were built onely of Turf and Osier, yet so wrought together, that they serv’d very well to keep out the Cold; in the midst of it was their Hearth where they made their Fire, and lay all round about it together upon several Beds of Bull-Rushes. What their Towns Were, or whither they had any, is altogether unknown_.

The Third Book,
CONTAINING
A DESCRIPTION
OF
PERUANA
OR,
Southern America.

CHAP. I.

[Sidenote: Situation and Form of _Southern America_.]

Having compleated our Description of _Mexicana_, or _Northern America_, being that great _Peninsula_ which lies Northward of the _Isthmus_, or _Straight_ of _Darien_, together with all the Islands on the North side of the _Equinoctial Line_, we come now to the Southern Part, otherwise call’d _Peruana_, from _Peru_ the chief Kingdom thereof, being the other great _Peninsula_, which lies Southward of the aforesaid _Straight_: It is generally resembled to the form of a Pyramid revers’d; the Basis whereof, that is to say, the more Southerly parts of it towards _Magellanica_ and the _Straights_, extend themselves largely both East and West, becoming more sharp and streight towards the North, and those parts by which it is joyn’d to _Mexicana_: in the whole it is suppos’d to contain a Circuit of seventeen thousand Miles at least, and is water’d with four of the greatest Rivers of the World, besides abundance of lesser Streams, which issuing from the _Andes_ and other Mountains of the Countrey, do run from all Parts both into the North and South Sea, much fertilizing the Countreys through which they pass; the four principal are these following:

[Sidenote: The chief Rivers thereof.]

1. _Orellana_, so call’d from the first Discovery thereof by _Franciscus de Orellana_, otherwise the River of _Amazons_, from a Generation of warlike Women, who (as the Tradition goes) inhabited certain Countreys lying upon the Banks thereof. This riseth in the Province of _Peru_, and runneth a Course of little less than five thousand Miles, discharging it self at last into the North Sea, through a Channel, as some say, of threescore Leagues broad, and yet with such a violent Current or Stream, that it is said to keep its natural colour and taste almost thirty Miles in the Sea.

2. _Orenoque_, by some call’d _Raliana_, from Sir _Walter Raleigh_, who endeavor’d to discover it, a River of the Province of _Guiana_, whose Head or Spring is not yet discover’d: It is said to be Navigable a thousand Miles together by the tallest Ships, and no less than two thousand by Pinnaces and smaller Vessels, and dischargeth it self likewise into the North Sea by sixteen several Channels or Mouths, making thereby several Islands; some whereof are said to be of good bigness, and to lie at a distance of a hundred Miles or more one from the other.

3. _Maragnon_, a River of a yet larger Course than any of the former, being, as ’tis said, no less than six thousand Miles from its Head, which is out of the _Andes_ in _Peru_, to its Fall, which is likewise into the North Sea about _Cape Blanco_, by a Channel of seventy Leagues in breadth.

4. _Rio de la Plata_, otherwise call’d _Paraguay_, a River of two thousand Miles Course, and falling as the rest into the North Sea, by a Channel of threescore Miles over, and about thirty Degrees Southward of the _Line_, towards the _Straights_ of _Magellane_.

[Sidenote: The Mountains _Andes_.]

The _Andes_, or Mountains before mention’d being the most noted, and biggest of all _America_, and indeed of the whole World, and thought by _Cortesius_ to be the same with _Sephar_, spoken of in the tenth Chapter of _Genesis_, run above a thousand Leagues in length from _Timama_, a Town of _New Granada_ in the Province of _Popayan_, and are in the narrowest place about twenty Leagues broad; and also of equal heighth with, if not higher than _Caucasus_ it self: the Ascent to them is unpassable, except in very few places, by reason of craggy Precipices, and wild overgrown pathless Woods, serving onely for a shelter to Serpents and other poysonous Animals, which are there so numerous, that a whole Army of one of the Kings of _Peru_ is reported to have been destroy’d by them; and what-ever People there are inhabiting in any of these Woods and Fastnesses, must needs be in the very utmost degree of rude and brutish salvageness.

Some divide _Southern America_ into _Peruviana_ and _Brasiliana_: _Peruviana_ they subdivide into _Terra Firma_ and _Peru_; _Brasiliana_ into _Brasile_ and _Paraguay_: But the most receiv’d and commodious Division is into these particular Provinces following, all of them wealthy and large, _viz._ 1. _Castella Aurea_, or _Golden Castile_, 2. _Nova Granada_, or _The New Kingdom_, as they call it. 3. _Peru_, specially so call’d. 4. _Chile._ 5. _Paraguay._ 6. _Brasile._ 7. _Guiana._ 8. Lastly _Paria_, with some lesser Islands adjoyning to all or most of these Provinces, and commonly reckon’d as part of them.

CHAP. II.
Castella Aurea, otherwise call’d Terra Firma.

[Sidenote: Description of _Castella Aurea_.]

_Castella de Oro_, as the _Spaniards_ call it, or _Golden Castile_, taketh up all the rest of the _Isthmus_, or _Straight_ of _Darien_, which hath not been yet spoken of, being bounded Eastward, and to the North-East, with the _Atlantick_ Ocean; and on the West with _Mare del Zur_, and some part of _Veragua_; Southward it hath the new Kingdom of _Granada_. It is call’d sometimes _Terra Firma_, because it was one of the first parts of firm Land which the _Spaniards_ touch’d upon, after they had pass’d so many Islands, as seem’d for some time to block up, and bar them from the Continent of _America_: It is subdivided into these inferior Provinces or Countreys, _viz._ 1. _Panama._ 2. _Darien._ 3. _Nova Andaluzia._ 4. _St. Martha._ 5. Lastly, the little Province _De la Hacha_.

[Sidenote: Rivers.]

The chief Rivers of the Province of _Panama_ are 1: _Chagre_, as it was antiently call’d, but afterwards from the great number of Crocodiles that harbor in it, _Rio de Lagartos_, falling into the North Sea between _Nombre de Dios_ and _Porto Bellano_. 2. _Sardinilla._ 3. _Sardina._ 4. _Rio de Colubros_, so call’d from the abundance of Snakes breeding thereabouts. 5. _Rio de Comagre_, which falls into the same Sea. 6. _Chepo_, famous in times past for its Gold-Sands. 7. _Rio de Balsas_, whose Banks are shaded with good Timber-Trees. 8. _Rio de Congo_, which falls into _St. Michaels_ Bay.

SECT. II.
Panama.

[Sidenote: Description of _Panama_.]

_Panama_, commonly call’d _The District_, or _Circle of Panama_, is bounded Eastward with the _Gulf_, or _Bay_ of _Urraba_, by which it is separated from the rest of the Continent of this Southern part of _America_; on the West it hath _Veragua_, one of the Provinces of _Guatimala_; being on both the other sides wash’d with the Sea: It is suppos’d to contain in length from _Carthagena_ and _Popayan_, to the Confines of _Veragua_, about eighty or ninety Leagues, in breadth not above threescore in any part; and where it is narrowest, _viz._ betwixt the City of _Panama_ and _Nombre de Dios_, if measur’d by a right Line, not above six or seven over from Sea to Sea. It lieth almost under the _Equinoctial Line_, but a few Degrees Northward of it, and therefore somewhat hot, and by the neighborhood of both Seas subject to a foggy and gross Air, in comparison of some other parts; so that it is not counted generally so healthful a Countrey, especially for Strangers, and in Summer-time.

[Sidenote: The antient Division of _Panama_.]

The antient Division of _Panama_, according to the Lordships of the _Casiques_ that then Govern’d, were these following: _Careta_, _Aila_, _Comagre_, _Chiam_, _Coyba_, _Chame_, _Chiru_, _Nata_, _Tobre_, _Trota_, _Haylia_, _Burica_, and _Escotia_, where the South Sea with the Spring-Tides flowing over the Plains, at its return being hardned by the Sea, is turn’d into Salt; but as it hath always hapned in all other Countreys of the World, that with the alteration of Government, the Division of the Countrey, and the Names of Places have totally chang’d, so also here the antient Division of Regions and Territories must give place to the Modern.

[Sidenote: The Nature and Customs of the antient Inhabitants.]

The antient Inhabitants of these Parts were a very warlike People, the Women always accompanying their Husbands in the Wars. They us’d to hang on the tops of their Standards the Bones of their greatest Heroes, thereby to animate their Soldiers. Their Arms consisted of poysonous Arrows, Stone Swords, and Pikes made of the Palm-Trees. They also carried with them the Idol _Chiapa_, to whom they Offer’d living Children at the beginning of their Wars, and afterwards making Merry with the Flesh, anointed the Image with the Blood: Moreover, if they return’d home Conquerors, they spent several days in all manner of Debaucheries, as Drinking, Singing, Dancing, Cutting their Prisoners Throats, with their Blood also anointing their Image. But if they were conquer’d, then they invented new Offerings to reconcile themselves with their Idol.

[Sidenote: Towns and Places of chief note.]

The chief Towns and Places which the _Spaniards_ inhabit here, are 1. _Panama_, the chief City of the Province, being also a Bishop’s See, which is Suffragan to the Arch-bishop of _Lima_, and the ordinary Residence of the Governor and Courts of Justice for these Parts; It is seated likewise upon the South Sea, and so near, that at High-water the Ships are said to Ride even under the Walls. Through this Town the Wealth both of _Peru_ and _Spain_ passeth once every Year; from _Spain_ by _Nombre de Dios_ and _Porto Bello_, from whence whatsoever Merchandise or other Commodities come from _Spain_, are Transported to _Panama_ by Land, and from thence by Sea to all the Parts of _Peru_; and by _Panama_ whatsoever comes from _Peru_, is sent into _Spain_: It hath commonly a strong Garrison of Soldiers in it, and is doubtless a Place otherwise well fortifi’d, being of so great importance. From the Haven _Pericos_ three Ways lead to _Panama_, the first along a Bridge over a River, whose Banks are great Fortifications to the City, the rather because the River is deep, and next to it a Pool over-grown with Weeds. The Way from _Nombre de Dios_ plain and without Woods, is wash’d by the Brook _Levendero_. The third runs along over a Stone Bridge and Champain Grounds, that extend from the Haven _Pericos_ to the City. Eastward from _Panama_ appear seven Royal Houses on a Rock, wherein the Courts of Judicature are kept. Five hundred Rods into the Sea lies an Island resembling a Half-Moon, and the Haven wherein the Ships when they unlade cast Anchor, there being else not Water enough for laden Barques, and all lie dry, the Tide being out: At the Mouth thereof stands a woodden Sconce. The Places _Venta de Cruze_, _Chagre_, _Quebrada_, and _Ballano_, are also fortifi’d against any Invasion, where else an Enemy might easily Land: But the strictest Watch is kept at the River _Chagre_, which Westward below _Nombre de Dios_ falling into the Northern Ocean, brings the Ships up to _Venta de Cruze_, from whence a Way scarce five Leagues long leads to _Panama_. The _Spanish_ Commodities consisting most in Meal, Oyl, Biskets, Cloth and Silk, are all brought from _Nombre de Dios_ along the same Way; or else in Winter when they cannot stem the Current of the River _Chagre_, then they bring their Goods by Land, not without great danger of being taken by the run-away _Negro_’s, who set upon them out of the Woods with poyson’d Darts and Arrows; and as many _Spaniards_ as they take, so many several ways they put them to death, because they formerly in the time of their Servitude were us’d with all imaginable Cruelties. The Provisions sold here at a reasonable Rate are _Maiz_, _Peruan_-Meal, Poultrey, Honey, Cattel, Swine, Oranges, Lemmons, Cabbage, and all manner of Garden Herbs or Plants. Round about the fore-mention’d Royal Houses lie Bulwarks, with a strong Castle on one side. A fair Cathedral denotes the Place to be a Bishop’s See: And the _Franciscans_, _Dominicans_, and Monks of the Order _De la Merced_, inhabit several fair Cloysters here. Two Leagues Westward is the Haven _Pericos_, which being secur’d from all Winds by three high Isles that lie before it, is the chief Harbor in which the _Peruan_ Plate-Fleet (consisting most in small Barques) comes to an Anchor before they touch at _Panama_. The Countrey is for the most part Mountainous, and in many places sends forth stinking Damps out of muddy Pools; yet in some places are _Savanna_ Grounds for Cattel to Graze in. The Air would also be more unhealthful, if it were not clear’d by the Winds which blow from the Sea. From _July_ to _October_ there fall continual Rains, mix’d with terrible claps of Thunder. The Inhabitants often recreate themselves in Hunting wild Hogs, with Nets made of the Brambles call’d _Nequen_ or _Henachen_, and that after a strange manner: for they set on fire the Bushes all about the place where they suppose the Game to lie, which to shun the fire runs into their Nets; so that the same Bushes are both their shelter and destruction, as affording Material to make the Nets wherein they are taken. Besides other Birds the Woods also abound with Pheasants and Turtle-Doves; and amongst Beasts, those that carry their Young about them in a Bag, as also wildcats. The Sea abounds with Fish, and produces Crocodiles of a large size, by the _Spaniards_ call’d _Lagartos_. The Trees are seldom without Leaves, but bear little or no Fruit.

2. _Nombre de Dios_, which hath broad Streets, high woodden Houses, and a fair Church: It extends from East to West along the Northern Ocean, in the middle of a great Wood on Moorish Ground, having a great Fen on the West; being situate under an unwholsom Climate, it hath occasion’d the death of many People. The Merchants which dwelt here had also Habitations in _Panama_, (the rest of the Houses being most of them Inns for Strangers) from whence as soon as they had gotten an Estate they went to _Spain_. The Countrey round about lies under Water in many places. The Oranges, _Cassada_-Roots, and the like, which grow here, occasion many Distempers to those that eat of them. In the Harbor, which hath on each side a Ridge of Rocks, on which lies decay’d Forts, the Sea is often-times so turbulent, that the Ships are forc’d to Ride at six Anchors apiece. Eastward from the City a fresh-Water River falls into the Haven, on whose Banks stand several Garden-Houses and Orchards. _Anno 1595._ Sir _Francis Drake_ arriving here, found a Mill beyond the City; not far from which on a Hill stood a Watch-house, of which having made himself Master, he set fire on the Town _Nombre de Dios_, as also on all the Vessels that were in the Harbor. The original of the Name _Nombre de Dios_ was on this occasion, _viz._ _Diego Niquesa_ setting Sail with three Ships out of the Haven _Carthagena_ to the Golden Countrey _Veragua_, was surpris’d by a violent Storm, in which two Ketches, Commanded by _Lupus de Olano_ and _Peter Umbria_ were driven out of sight, whilest he suffer’d shipwrack, and getting ashore, rang’d up and down in a desolate Countrey, where he found no other Food but Roots, till at last he met with _Olano_; when the Famine began to increase amongst them in such a nature, that being scarce able to carry their Arms, many of them were kill’d by the Inhabitants with poyson’d Arrows, insomuch that of seven hundred there remain’d scarce ninety: _Niquesa_ shipp’d as many of them in a new Vessel which they had made as it could possibly carry, and promis’d to fetch the rest off from _Veragua_ as soon as he had discover’d a Place fit to be inhabited: The first Place he Landed at was _Puerto Bello_; from whence being necessitated by the _Indians_ who gather’d together to Retreat Aboard, not without the loss of several Men, he set Sail to the Promontory _Mormor_, beyond which he Anchor’d in a secure Haven; where, as he was going ashore he call’d to his Men, saying, _Saltiamo in tierra al Nombre de Dios_, that is, _Let us Land in the Name of God_, and calling up a Fort against the Assaults of the Natives, call’d it _Nombre de Dios_.

3. _St. Philip_, or _Puerto Bello_, so denominated by _Christopher Columbus_ from its Haven lying along the North Sea, wonderful convenient and secure, by reason of the good Ground for Anchoring, and a Creek in the same, defended from all sorts of Winds; and which being surrounded with Woods, hath much over-flow’d Land about it, as also abundance of good Gravel for Ballast; for which and several other Reasons, the famous Architect _Baptista Antonelli_ advis’d the _Spanish_ King, to build this City for a Staple of Trade (in stead of _Nombre de Dios_, which was found unhealthy) having pitch’d upon an excellent Situation for it, _viz._ on a Plain at the Foot of a Hill, where there are three fresh Rivulets, meeting with a fruitful and hot Countrey: wherefore his Advice being taken, they first built a Fort at the Mouth of the Haven, put five Guns into the same to defend the new City, and on the Shore a strong Tower with eight Drakes: Moreover, the Rocks along the Shore, and close Woods about the Haven prevent the Landing of an Enemy: But at the very time that this City was just begun to be built, Sir _Francis Drake_ having burnt _Nombre de Dios_, ran into the Haven _Puerto Bello_, where he found ten Houses, besides the Governors Palace, and a Castle whose Breast-works which the _Spaniards_ had lately rais’d of Timber, Stone, and Earth, were all demolish’d by the _English_: But the _Spaniards_ have since re-built the same, and fortifi’d the Haven, with two strong Castles, notwithstanding in the Year 1661. it was surpriz’d and taken by the _English_ under the Command of Captain _Parker_, and the Governor _Petro Melendez_ taken Prisoner.

4. _Nata_, commonly call’d _St. Jago de Nata_, situated on the West side of this Province, upon _Mare del Zur_, or _The South Sea_, about thirty Leagues distant from _Panama_, towards the Borders of _Veragua_.

5. _Acla_, a Town upon the same Coast, but lying South-East of _Nombre de Dios_: It was at first onely a Fort built by _Peter de Arias_, but afterwards grew up into a small City, of which at present there is nothing remaining but the remembrance of the famous _Vasquez Nunnez_, Beheaded by his Father-in-law _Arias_.

6. Lastly, _La Crux Real_, a few Leagues distant from _Panama_, for the most part inhabited by a sort of _Negro_’s call’d _Simmerones_.

Along the North Coast of _Panama_ are two small woody Islands call’d _Cattiva_ and _Comagre_, lying low in the Water; also the Isle _De Pines_, which rises high out of the Sea near the Main Land.

[Sidenote: The _Isles of Pearls_.]

On the Southern Coast are _Isole de las Perlas_, or _The Isles of Pearls_, about twenty five in number, but indeed rather Rocks than Islands, excepting two, _viz._ _Tararequi_ and _Del Rios_ where in former times the _Indians_ took great store of Pearls, by diving for them to the bottom of the Sea; and they were esteem’d of greater value and excellence than those of _Cubagua_, and great profit was made of them by the _Spaniards_, till by their Cruelties exercis’d upon the Natives through excessive greediness, they depopulated the Islands, and lost that altogether of which before they were so insatiable: they are now onely inhabited by a few _Moors_ and other Slaves, who keep Cattel there for their Masters.

[Sidenote: Captain _Oxenham_’s Expedition.]

It will not seem amiss to conclude our Description of _Panama_ with a short Account of the _English_ Captain _John Oxenham_’s Exploits in these Parts: He being incited by the Treasure which Sir _Francis Drake_ fetch’d from hence, resolv’d to Steer for the Northern Coast of _Panama_, where he hal’d his Ship of a hundred and twenty Tun on Shore, and cover’d the same with Trees, buried his Guns, and march’d with two Field-Pieces and seven Men up into the Countrey, and was by the _Indians_ conducted to a River which falls into the South Sea, where he built a Pinnace of forty five Foot long, and Sailing into the South Sea, Landed on _Tararequi_, one of the Islands of _Pearls_; where he soon after took a _Peruan_ Barque with sixty thousand pieces of Gold, store of Wine and Bread, and the day following another which came from _Lima_, loaden with a hundred thousand Pound in Silver Bars, and some Pearls; with which being enrich’d he return’d to the Main: The Governor of _Panama_ being inform’d of it, put a hundred Soldiers into four Barques, besides a considerable number of _Negro_ Slaves; over which _Juan de Ortego_ having the chief Command, was inform’d at _Tararequi_ what Course the _English_ had steer’d; whereupon he pursu’d them to the River whither they were gone, which falling with three Arms into the Sea, they could not have known which way the _English_ went, unless they had seen some Feathers of Fowls driving in the Mouth of the least Branch, by which they judg’d that they were not far off; therefore Rowing up they found after four days Journey the Pinnace hal’d on Shore, and watch’d by six Men, who were order’d to stand Sentinel, whereof one being shot by the _Spaniards_, the other five fled; whom _Ortega_ pursuing, found half a League from the Shore a Hut made of Boughs, wherein the Booty lay, which he speedily carried to his Barques; but Captain _Oxenham_ inform’d hereof, fell with two hundred _Indians_ upon the _Spaniards_, who having a Wood on their Backs made such advantage thereof, that eleven _English_ were slain, and seven taken, and had not the rest fled, they had all been either kill’d or taken Prisoners: Those that were taken inform’d _Ortega_ that they had been at difference amongst themselves about dividing the Booty, which was the reason of their staying so long: moreover, they discover’d where and how their Ship lay; all which the Governor of _Panama_ writ to _Nombre de Dios_; from whence four Sail were immediately sent to find out the Ship and the buried Guns, as also to take all such _English_ as they should find preparing of Boats or Barques, and bring them to _Panama_; whereupon very many were taken, who were all miserably slain, except a few Youths.

SECT. III.
Darien.

[Sidenote: Description of _Darien_.]

_Darien_, which by some Authors not being thought considerable enough to make a distinct Province, is reckon’d one and the same with, or at least part of, _Panama_, hath on the North the District or Circle of _Panama_; on the South, the new Kingdom of _Granada_; Eastward it is bounded with the Gulf of _Urraba_ abovesaid, and some part of the River _Darien_, which giveth Name to the Province; and to the West, with the South Sea; of a more temperate Air by far than that of _Panama_, and a Soil so admirably fruitful and lusty, that they say Melons, Cucumbers, and generally all other Fruits of the Garden, are ripe and fit to gather within twenty days or less, after their first sowing, but very much infested by noxious Creatures, as Lyons, Leopards, wild Cats, Crocodiles, Serpents, and Bats, after whose Bitings a Man bleeds to death, unless he washes the Wound well with Sea-water, or stop it with hot Ashes; and no less by the unwholsomness of the Air, which is infested by the many stinking Damps that arise from the muddy Pools. The Inhabitants are sickly, and seeming generally to be troubled with the Yellow Jaundice, never attain to a great Age: they go naked, the Men onely covering their Privities with a Shell or Cotton-Cloth: The Women wear a Cloth which reaches from the Middle down to their Knees, but if Women of Quality, to their Feet.

[Sidenote: _Sebastian_ and _Antiqua_, by whom built.]

The _Spaniards_ have many years ago made themselves Masters of this Province of _Darien_, in which _Alphonsus Fogeda_ built the City _Sebastian_, which was inhabited till a _Spanish_ Knight call’d _Ancisius_, _Anno 1510._ built _Antiqua_, and made it a Bishop’s See, which by reason of the unwholsomness of the Place was remov’d to _Panama_, when _Vasquez Nunnez_ discover’d the Southern Ocean, _Anno 1590._ because _Antiqua_ lay on a low Ground between high Mountains, where the Sun burnt exceedingly, and the Way to the South Sea, being three Leagues from thence, it was very troublesom to convey Merchandise thither.

But a worse Accident befell the Town _St. Cruiz_, which being built by the _Spanish_ Captain _Peter de Arias_, was ruin’d by the _Indians_.

[Sidenote: Rivers.]

The chief Rivers are 1. _Darien_, which gives Name both to the Province and the Provincial Town, and falls into the Gulf of _Urraba_, being a large Arm of the Sea, eight Leagues over at the Mouth thereof. 2. _Rio de las Redas_, which runs in like manner through the Province of _Nova Andaluzia_, and falls also into the same Gulf. So likewise doth 3. _Rio de la Trepadera._ 4. _Corobaci._ 5. _Beru_, chiefly remarkable upon this Consideration, that some curious Etymologists have endeavor’d to derive the Name of _Peru_ from this River, by the alteration onely of the initial Letter.

[Sidenote: Places of chief note.]

The chief, and indeed the onely Town of this Tract is _Darien_, built as aforesaid by _Encisus_, a _Spanish_ Adventurer, and by him call’d _St. Maria Antiqua_, and by others _The Antique of Darien_, being one of the first Towns that were built by the _Spaniards_ on the firm Land; though there are who make mention of two other small Towns or Villages, the one nam’d at least, if not built by the _Spaniards_, viz. _Los Angelos_, scarce inhabited at present by any but the Salvages; the other an antient Town of the Natives, call’d _Bizu_.

SECT. IV.
New Andaluzia.

[Sidenote: Description of _New Andaluzia_.]

Eastward of _Darien_ and the Gulf of _Urraba_, lieth the Countrey of _New Andaluzia_, otherwise call’d _Carthagena_, from the Name of its principal City: On the East it hath the Countrey call’d _St. Martha_; on the North, the Main Ocean; and _New Granada_ towards the South. It is for the most part a Mountainous Countrey, and full of Woods, which they say yield abundance of Rozen, Gums, and some very good Balsams; also a sort of Long-pepper, much sharper than that of _East-India_. But the Plains, by reason of much Rain, to which the Countrey is subject, especially for some times of the year, of but a spewy and cold Soil. The _Spaniards_ at their first coming found it a rich Countrey, not so much from the Nature and Profits of the Soil (though it be said to have some Mines in it, and those of Gold) but by reason of a certain Opinion and Respect, which the _Americans_ of these Parts are generally said to have born towards this Countrey, insomuch that they would be brought and buried there from other Places very remote; and according to the Custom of the Countrey, not without good store of Gold and other Jewels, according to the Quality and Condition of the Person that was buried; of which the _Spaniards_ soon gain’d Intelligence, and in ransacking the Graves and Monuments of the Dead, are suppos’d to have found an infinite Mass of Treasure: but those Mines are long since exhausted.

[Sidenote: Nature and Customs of the antient Inhabitants.]

The Inhabitants of old suffer’d great prejudice by Tygers and Serpents; yet nevertheless this Countrey was very populous before the _Spaniards_ arrival here; the Natives wore Cotton Aprons before, and Golden Rings about their Arms and Legs, as also Strings of Pearl, and the like. The Women here, as in the rest of these Parts, went with their Husbands into the Wars, and behav’d themselves valiantly, shooting poyson’d Arrows, insomuch that _Martin Ambesus_ took a Maid, _Anno 1509._ who had kill’d twenty eight _Spaniards_.

[Sidenote: The Countrey _Urraba_.]

To the Province _Carthagena_ belongs also the Countrey _Urraba_, which is so fruitful, that all kind of _Spanish_ Trees and Seeds grow better here than in _Spain_: Besides which it hath its own Fruit, as also abundance of Pine and Palm-Trees, whose Leaves serve for Brooms. The _Guaiana_-Tree bears a sharp kind of Fruit like a Lemmon, the _Guaravana_ a kind of Cittrons, the _Mameisa_ a Fruit not unlike an Orange, but tasting like a Melon, and the _Hovos_ a great Plum.

Their Gardens abound with the Root _Batata_, whose Leaves send forth several Strings, which over-spreading the Ground fasten in the Earth, and take new Roots; it is yellow without, and whitish within, and bears pale green Flowers, which at last turn to a Cod full of Seed. These Roots roasted in hot Ashes, exceed our _European_ Turnip; and beaten and put in Water till it works over, makes a Drink, with which the _Indians_ Drink and Carouse till they are Drunk.

[Sidenote: A strange Beast.]

Moreover, _Urraba_ abounds in Venison, Fish, and all sorts of ravenous Creatures, as Tygers, Lyons, and a particular strange Beast as big as an Ox, having an Elephants Nose, Horses Feet, and hanging Ears.

The Trees likewise swarm with Birds; and especially near Lakes or Pools breed Pheasants and Parrots, of which some are bigger than Capons, others no bigger than Chickens.

[Sidenote: The Mountain _Abibe_.]

Against _Urraba_ juts the Mountain _Abibe_, whose length Westward remains unknown; the breadth thereof in some places is about twenty Leagues; it hath many Ways which cannot be travell’d with Horses. The top of this Mountain is uninhabited; but along the Valleys, which are many and large, dwelt formerly a People that possess’d great Riches in Gold, which they gather’d out of Rivulets that fell Westward from the tops of the Mountains. It Rains here almost all the year long, which makes the Ways very bad for Travellers to pass.

At the Foot of this Mountain, towards the South, lie two small antient Casiquedoms, if we may so call them, formerly inhabited by a valiant People, call’d _Tarabe de Zenu_, whether chiefly the dead Bodies were brought from all the adjacent Countreys, to be buried in great State, as hath been before intimated.

[Sidenote: Towns and Places of principal note.]

[Sidenote: The Description of _Carthagena_.]

The principal Towns and Places of note are 1. _Carthagena_, (so call’d either from the resemblance of its Situation with the City _Carthagena_ in the Kingdom of _Murcia_ belonging to _Old Spain_, or because the first Inhabitants were Citizens of the said City) which was begun to be built _Anno 1532._ by _Peter de Heredia_, but fully finished by _Georgio Robledo_, eight years after the first Foundation thereof was laid. This Episcopal Metropolis is on the North wash’d by the North Sea over a plain shallow Ground; on the Land side the Sea flows through a narrow Bay by the City towards the Lake _Canupote_, which ebbs and flows equal with the Ocean, and receives and discharges its Water through two Pipes which lie under a long Bridge, joyning _Carthagena_ to the Main Coast. This City boasted long since above five hundred Stone Houses, being divided into twenty six large Streets, whereof four are six hundred and twenty Paces long: behind each House is a Garden; and the Church appears above all the other Buildings: The _Dominicans_ Cloyster is also fairly built; neither is the _Franciscans_ inferior to it, who also possess a second Edifice on the Main Continent over the Bridge. The Custom-house and Court where the Courts for the whole Province of _Carthagena_ are kept, are also stately Structures. The Haven hath two Entrances, the chiefest whereof lies half a League Eastward from the City, and the Western, call’d _La Boca_, is as far again; both very dangerous, because of the many blind Rocks that lie before them. _Anno 1585._ when Sir _Francis Drake_ took _Carthagena_ by Storm, the whole was fortifi’d with Sconces, besides two Forts for the better security thereof, whereof one lock’d up the narrow Mouth of the Haven with a strong Chain; not far from which stood an Abbey, Dedicated to the _Franciscans_, and Wall’d round about; since which they have several Out-works, Forts and Towers, to prevent all foreign Invasions. The City grows wealthy daily by the _Peruan_ Plate-Fleet putting in there before they go to _Spain_, and especially by the Trade from _New Granada_ along the River _Magdalena_. The Island before the Haven, antiently call’d _Codega_, now _Carex_, inhabited by Fisher-men when the _Spaniards_ Landed there, is now desolate, the remainder of those that were destroy’d by them being fled to wild places from the _Spaniards_ Cruelties; notwithstanding the People hereabouts were valiant enough to Engage with them. But since the Devastation made by Sir _Francis Drake_, _Carthagena_ hath receiv’d a more fatal Blow; for it was scarce fully repair’d, when five _French_ Privateers burnt the City to Ashes: which Mischief was occasion’d by a _Spanish_ Seaman, who being whipt by Command of the Governor, resolving for Revenge, went from _Spain_ to _France_, and conducted the fore-mention’d Ships to _Carthagena_, where he reveng’d himself on the Governor; for finding him asleep, he first wak’d him, and after having told him of his causing him to be Whipt, he kill’d him. The Booty which the _Spaniards_ carried from thence at that time amounted to above a hundred and fifty thousand _Ducats_.

[Sidenote: The Balsam of _Tolu_ very famous.]

2. _Tolu_, by the _Spaniards_ now call’d _St. Jago_, twelve Leagues distant from _Carthagena_, a Place memorable for the excellent Balsam which is brought from thence, and commonly call’d _The Balsam of Tolu_; it is gather’d in a Spoonful of black Wax, stuck under the Hole cut in the Bark of a low Pine-Tree, out of which in hot Weather runs a Golden colour’d Gum, very soveraign, and of an excellent smell.

3. _St. Crux de Mopox_, a neat Town, seated a little above the confluence of the two Rivers, _St. Martha_ and _Magdalena_, which waters this Province.

4. _Baranca de Nolambo_, a Place of great Traffick, especially for all Commodities of the new Kingdom of _Granada_; it standeth upon the Banks of the River _Magdalena_, and about six Leagues distant from the Sea.

5. _Buena Vista_, otherwise call’d _St. Sebastian de Buena Vista_, a Town commodiously seated upon a rising Ground not far from the Gulf of _Urraba_, or the Sound of _Darien_, about a League and a half from the Sea.

6. _Villa de St. Maria_, thirty Leagues Southward of _Carthagena_.

[Sidenote: Rivers of _Carthagena_.]

The Province of _Carthagena_ is stor’d with many Brooks and great Rivers, amongst which the Stream _Cauca_ falls into the River _Magdalena_, beyond _Popayan_ near _Mopox_.

The River _Zenu_, which gives Denomination to the above-mention’d Territory, makes a very convenient Harbor with its Mouth, where much Salt is to be had.

The _Daria_, which runs between _Panama_ and _Carthagena_ into the Inlet _Urraba_, gives its Denomination to the foregoing Province, through which it also runs, as hath been already mention’d.

The River which for its greatness is call’d _Rio Grande_, or _Magdalena_, (because it was discover’d on the Day Consecrated to that Saint) falls with such force into the Northern Ocean, about twenty three Leagues Eastward from _Carthagena_, that running two Leagues broad and ten long into the Sea, it retains its freshness of Water; in which there lying many Rocks, makes the same very dangerous for Ships. In the Mouth of the Haven lies an Island, which is divided by the River, the widest and most frequented Channel of which respects _St. Martha_, where those that carry the Merchandise up this Stream to _New Granada_, spend two Moneths in Toeing, whenas they come from thence in three Weeks.

Thunder and Lightning rages here many times after a terrible manner from Midnight till Morning. In _January_ there falls also abundance of Rain, which gliding from the Mountains swells the River exceedingly.

SECT. V.
St. Martha.

[Sidenote: Description of _St. Martha_.]

_St. Martha_, so call’d from the chief City of the Province, is border’d on the West with _New Andaluzia_; on the East, with _Rio de la Hacha_; on the North, with the Ocean; and on the South, with _New Granada_; It is about threescore and ten Leagues in length, and not much less in breadth: It was antiently distributed into several little _Seignories_, Govern’d by _Casiques_, or petty Princes, _viz._ _Pozigueica_, _Betoma_, _Buritaca_, _Chimola_, inhabited by valiant Men and beautiful Women, and above all the rest, _Tairona_, (whose People for a long time maintain’d War against the _Spaniards_) lying at the Foot of the high Mountains _Sierras Nevadas_, whose snowy Crowns are seen thirty Leagues off at Sea, and run along in a continu’d Ridge through _Peru_ and _Chili_ to the _Straights_ of _Magellan_.

This Countrey was Discover’d, and part of it Planted, _Anno 1524._ by _Roderic de Bastredas_, who afterwards was murder’d in his Sleep by his own People.

[Sidenote: The Nature of the Climate, and Commodities of the Countrey.]

The Sun shines so exceeding hot near the Sea-coast, that there is no enduring of the same; but up in the Countrey the snowy Mountains occasion great Cold, and in Harvest and _October_ it Rains exceedingly, whereas at other times it is very dry Weather, and the Winds blow generally out of the East or North-East, yet the Land-Breezes coming out of the West bring sometimes Rains with them. From the Mountains, which are stony and barren, fall many Brooks and Rivers, which water divers Plains, the Grass and other Plants of which are often blasted by violent Storms; nevertheless Oranges, Lemmons, Granates, and all sorts of _Spanish_ Garden Fruits grow here in great plenty. The Woods afford likewise Pigeons, Partridges, Venison, and the like; the Rivers all manner of Fish, which are seen to swim in great numbers twenty Yards under the Water, especially in the Haven _St. Martha_, near which formerly liv’d many Fisher-men, who with Nets made of tough Twigs pleited together, caught such plenty of Fish, that they furnish’d all their Neighbors. The High-ways are made dangerous by Lyons, Tygers, and Bears.

[Sidenote: Great plenty of Precious Stones in these Parts.]

[Sidenote: _Peter di Lugo_ his Treachery to the Natives.]

[Sidenote: The _Welsares_ Journey.]

The Countrey _Buritaca_ affords the Inhabitants Gold; _Tairona_, excellent Stones against Bleeding and the Gravel, Jasper, Porphyr, and Gold; the Valley _Tunia_, many rich Emeraulds, which Stones us’d to be in great esteem before _America_ produc’d such great numbers of them. _Acosta_ relates, That a _Spaniard_ desiring to know the Price of an Emerauld, shew’d two to an _Italian_ Jeweller, who valu’d the one at a hundred, the other at three hundred _Ducats_; but soon after seeing a Chest full of them, said they were scare worth a _Ducat_ apiece; and that the Sute which the _Roman_ Lady wore, being beset with Emeraulds, and valu’d at four hundred thousand _Ducats_, would not sell now for half so much. This Stone or Jewel exceedingly fortifies the Sight, wherefore the Emperor _Nero_ represented the bloody Encounters of Fencers in an Emerauld. It is also judg’d to be good against the Falling-sickness, wherefore the _Indians_ hang them in their Noses to this day, and adorn their Idols with them; they grow in stony Rocks along Veins, not unlike Crystal, and in time obtain a glittering Greenness; the biggest of them that are found in this Age are most esteem’d of in _Genua_. The Emerauld Pillar, which as a wonderful Ornament stood in _Hercules_’s Temple in the City of _Tyrus_, being very famous amongst the Antients, was without doubt no more than a green Stone; and perhaps of the same Material, was the Pillar erected by the _Arabian_ King _Miramamolines_, in the Cathedral at _Corduba_. But the great fame of these Emeraulds incited _Gonzalvez Zimenes_, Governor of _St. Martha_, to leave his Place and seek for them; to which end he Sail’d up the Rivulet _Gayra_ with two Ketches and forty five _Spaniards_, who meeting with the Casique _Bagotta_, got much Gold of him, and afterwards went to the Valley _Tessuca_; of which _Simandoca_ being Governor, conducted _Ximenez_ twenty three Leagues farther to an Emerauld Rock, from whence he return’d exceedingly enriched; the rumor of which spreading up and down, made several travel thither; amongst whom was _Peter di Lugo_, Governor of _Terra Firma_, who sending for Aid from _Carthagena_, fought his way to _Bagotta_, who resisted him for some time, till at last being defeated he made Peace with them for a considerable quantity of Gold; which when _Peter di Lugo_ had receiv’d, not regarding his Word, he plunder’d all the Countrey, and having committed all imaginable Cruelties on the Natives, return’d home with an invaluable Mass of Gold and Emeraulds to _St. Martha_. Not long after the _Welsares_, _German_ Knights, came from _Venezuela_, (which City the Emperor _Charles_ the Fifth Morgag’d to them _Anno 1518._) and travell’d through the snowy Mountains of _St. Martha_ with _Indian_ Guides, whose Instructions following, they digg’d many Emeraulds out of the Valley _Funia_; the Inhabitants of which affrighted at the sight of the Strangers, hang’d themselves out of despair, though naturally valiant, and ingenious in working in Tapestry the shapes of Tygers, Lyons, and other Beasts, and painting on the Walls of their Houses variety of Figures of divers colours, covering their Floors with Mats neatly pleited of Rushes. They fed on Fish, Venison, and Mans-flesh, and also on the Roots _Agies_, tasting like Chesnuts, _Yuca_, _Maiz_, _Batata_, and _Cassada_.

[Sidenote: Chief Cities and Places of note.]

The chief Cities and Places of principal note in this Province are 1. _St. Martha_, which gives Denomination to the whole Province, it stands built at the North Sea, which makes a large and convenient Harbor, being defended from the Winds by high Mountains and two Isles, is a Bishop’s See, and hath a large Cathedral. The Houses built of Canes are cover’d with _Palmito_-Trees, and some with woodden Shingles. The Haven hath neither Fort nor Castle to defend it, because there is no Trade but with the _Indians_, which bring Earthen Ware and Cotton Clothes to sell; and because the _Spanish_ Ships seldom come hither, the Place is much gone to decay, and the more, because it is no way defended against any Assault of an Enemy, which the _French_, and afterwards the _English_, under the Command of Sir _Francis Drake_, and the following Year under Captain _Anthony Shirley_ took advantage of, and plunder’d and burnt the City.

2. _Teneriff_, built on the Banks of the River _Magdalena_, forty Leagues from _St. Martha_.

3. _Tamalameque_, otherwise call’d _Villa de las Palmas_, twenty Leagues South of _Teneriff_, lying on a high stony Ground; between which are plain Pastures for Cattel, surrounded with high Woods, as also Pools made by the over-flowing of the Rivers, whose Banks are inhabited by the _Indians_, who are much addicted to Sleep and Drinking. The Pools before mention’d produce abundance of Fish, as also Crocodiles, and the terrible _Manati_ before describ’d.

4. _Ocanna_, which hath an Inland Haven.

5. _Ramada_, formerly call’d _New Salamanca_, standing at the Foot of the Mountain call’d _Sierras Nevadas_. This Town is famous for its Copper and Brass Mines.

6. _Cividad de los Reyes_, which built in the Valley _Upari_, stands on the Shore of the mighty River _Guataporeya_, where from the beginning of _January_ till _May_ the Eastern Breezes moderate the Heat, otherwise intolerable: But the continual Rains thereabout occasions the _Quartan_ Ague, and many such like Distempers. The Natives hereabouts, salvage and valiant, would never submit to the _Spaniards_.

[Sidenote: The Tree _Xagua_.]

The peculiar Plants of this Place are the Tree _Xagua_, which bears a Fruit like a Raisin, which dry’d and ground yields exceeding good Meal for Bread.

[Sidenote: The Root _Scorzonera_.]

The Root _Scorzonera_, which cures the Bitings of Serpents. The _Indians_ also use the Tail of a Serpent for a Remedy against the same Evil, as they take Tobacco against the Falling-sickness, and snuff the Powder in at their Nostrils, and drink the Juice thereof to cause Loosness.

[Sidenote: Chief Rivers.]

The chief Rivers of this Province, are 1. _Polomino_, so call’d from a _Spanish_ Captain, that was drown’d there with his Horse, falling from the _Sierras Nevadas_.

2. _Guatupori_, whose Water causes the Bloody-flux and Loosness, which again is cur’d by the same Water drunk with beaten Cinamon. _Guatupori_ reckons many Rivulets, amongst which the _Cesar_ and _Budillo_ are both large, deep, and abounding with Fish.

Near the City _Los Reyes_ are three great Water-pits, triangular between stony Cliffs; nigh which a Tradition goes, That of old there lurk’d a terrible Serpent, which at times devour’d a thousand People; insomuch that none durst dwell thereabouts, till certain _Spaniards_ having the hardiness and curiosity to go seek out this Serpent, heard a great noise in the Pits, but saw nothing like the fore-mention’d Animal.

Here are likewise several Fountains of Pitch and Tar.

SECT. VI.
Rio de la Hacha.

[Sidenote: _Rio de la Hacha._]

_Rio de la Hacha_ is the Name of a little Province lying on the North-East of _St. Martha_, wash’d on all other parts with the Waters of the Main Ocean, or with the Gulf or Bay of _Venezuela_.

[Sidenote: Chief Towns of this Province.]

The chief Towns of this Province, are 1. A small Town call’d _De la Hacha_, which gives Denomination to the said Province, having no convenient Haven, but otherwise seated in a Soil very rich and fertile, not onely of all sorts of Fruits and Plants, especially such as are brought from _Spain_, but likewise in many Mines of Gold, Gems of a large size and great value, and many excellent Salt-Wiches, as they call them; It is eight Leagues distant from _Salamanca_ aforesaid, and eighteen from _Cape Villa_, the most Westerly Point or Foreland of the Bay of _Venezuela_; and with the rest had the hap to be surpris’d and pillag’d by the _English_ with Sir _Francis Drake_ in the Year 1595. who refus’d twenty four thousand _Ducats_, which the Governor proffer’d him for the Pearls he had taken.

2. _Rancheria_, six Leagues Eastward of _La Hacha_, inhabited chiefly by Pearl-Fishers, or such as get their Living for the most part by Fishing for Pearl, which was wont to be good on these Coasts.

3. _Tapia_, five Leagues from _La Hacha_, and considerable, for that the adjacent Parts were laid waste by the _English_, to revenge the perfidiousness of the Governor of _Salamanca_, refusing to pay the four thousand _Ducats_ he had promis’d, upon Condition of their sparing the Town.

[Sidenote: _Abibeca_ the last King of this Province.]

The last King of those that Govern’d in any of these Provinces of _Terra Firma_, was _Abibeca_, who could not be won to come down from his Palace, which he had on the top of a Tree, till a _Spanish_ Officer, one _Francisco de Vanquez_ began to lay an Ax to the Root thereof.

After _Didaco Niquesa_, _Alphonso Oreda_, and _Anciso_, had made very large Discoveries in these Provinces, _Valboa_ was the first that discover’d the Way to the South-Sea.

CHAP. III.
New Granada.

[Sidenote: First Discovery of _New Granada_.]

The new Kingdom of _Granada_, as ’tis commonly call’d, was for the most part both discover’d and conquer’d by _Gonsalvo Ximenes_, about the Year 1536. and with so good success, that in less than a years space, the whole Countrey was quietly setled under the _Spaniards_ Government, and the Captain with his small Company had made shift to gather together such a Mass of Treasure as may seem almost incredible, _viz._ from the _Reguli_, or petty Princes of those Countreys, whom he had either destroy’d or made Tributary. But a more particular Relation of _Ximenes_ his Journey take as followeth:

[Sidenote: _Gustavo Ximenes_ his Expedition.]