Chapter M (3)

The _French_ Captain _Riffaut_, upon the Advice of _Ouyrapive_, who bore a great sway amongst his _Maragnan_ Subjects, fitted out three Ships; but because of a Contention between the Sea-men, and the loss of his chiefest Vessel, he was forc’d to Sail to _France_, and leave some of his Men on _Maragnan_, under the Command of a young Gentleman call’d _De Vaux_, who carry’d himself so discreetly amongst the Islanders, that they promis’d to embrace the _Christian_ Religion, if new Supplies came from _France_ to assist them against their Enemies; of which _De Vaux_ advis’d the _French_ King _Henry_ the Fourth, who approv’d of it, and sent Monsieur _De la Ravardiere_ to _Maragnan_, to make a farther Enquiry into the whole Matter, where he spent six Moneths; after which returning he found the King murder’d, wherefore the Business lay dead for a while; but at length _Ravardiere_ took with him the Lord _Rosilly_, and the Baron of _Sansi_, desiring some _Capuchins_ of the Queen-Mother, for the promulgating of the _Christian_ Religion in _Maragnan_; which being granted, they set Sail with three Ships _Anno 1612._ with which arriving safely there, and Landing, he built next the chiefest Haven the Fort _St. Lewis_ on a Hill, by whose foot two Rivers glide into the Ocean. After which this new Plantation went on for a considerable time, till the _Portuguese_ overpowering them, drove them out of this their new Field, making themselves absolute Masters of the Fort, and also of the great Mountain _Ibouyapap_, four Leagues high, plain on the top, twenty four Leagues long, and little less in breadth. No Champain under the Sun is more pleasant and fruitful than this; for in some places it is shaded with Trees, in others hath brave Pastures, lies under a wholsom Climate, and abounds with fresh Springs, from whence are deriv’d store of Brooks, and Rivulets full of Fish.

SECT. XI.
The Lordships Tamarica, Rio Grande, Siara, and Para.

[Sidenote: Description of the Lordship of _Tamarica_.]

The _Præfecture_ of _Tamarica_, not above three Leagues in length and two in breadth, so call’d from a little Island lying before it, and part of its Precinct, is counted the first, that is, the most ancient Lordship of _Brasile_, having otherwise nothing in it that is very considerable, save onely a good Haven or Port, with a Castle for the Security or Command of it, held to be impregnable, and so found by the _Dutch_, who under _Peter Heyn_ and _Stein Callenfels_ in vain attempted the taking of it, as shall be mention’d hereafter more particularly, but made it useless to the _Portuguese_, by making a Bulwark at the Mouth of the Haven, and so blocking it up.

This _Capatania_ yielded formerly a Rent of thirty thousand _Ducats_ to the Earls of _Montesanto_, whose Right it was.

[Sidenote: Description of the Lordship of _Rio Grande_.]

The _Præfecture_ of _Rio Grande_, a small Precinct, so denominated, as lying on the South-side of that great River which the _Portuguese_ call _Rio Grande_, and the Natives _Potingi_, where it falls into the Sea, was once possess’d by the _French_ about the Year 1597. who were outed by the _Portuguese_, and the Place fortifi’d both against them and the Salvages, (of whom they slew and took Prisoners very great numbers) with a Castle, which the _Dutch_ in the Year 1631. found an impregnable piece, and too hard for them to take.

[Sidenote: Description of the Lordship of _Siara_.]

The _Præfecture_ of _Siara_, so denominated from the Haven; it hath long been in the possession of the _Portuguese_, but they have therein no Towns of note, onely a Castle, and some few Houses for those that attend the gathering of Cotton-Wool, and Manuring of the Sugar-Canes, which are here in great abundance, also the Countrey is said to afford some Crystal and other Precious Stones.

[Sidenote: Description of the Lordship of _Para_.]

Lastly, the _Præfecture_ of _Para_ is the most Northerly part of _Brasile_, bordering upon _Guiana_, so call’d from the River _Para_, which runneth through the midst of it, upon which, in a convenient place, and upon rais’d Ground, the _Portuguese_ have built a very strong Castle, well Wall’d on all sides, save onely towards the River, where it is planted with Ordnance: It is built in a quadrangular form, and hath at least three hundred Persons of the _Portuguese_ Nation (besides the Garrison Soldiers) belonging to it, who have all Employment enough about the Cotton-Wool, Sugar-Canes, and Tobacco, which the Countrey is said to afford in great plenty.

_A Relation of the Proceedings of the_ Netherland West-India _Company
in_ Brasile _to the Year 1658_.

The chief Disturbers of the _Portuguese_ in the possession of the Countrey of _Brasile_, were the _United Netherlanders_; for they having had good success with their first Fleet, under the Command of _John Molenaer_, _John Dignumszoon_, _John Schelinger_, _Simon Mau_, and the Merchants _Cornelis Woodman_, _Gerard Beveningen_, and _Heinier van Hel_, Anno 1595. in the _East-Indies_, where they got such footing, that they took whole Kingdoms, to the great enriching of the Eastern World, where they spread their Trade over the whole Countrey, were thereupon emboldned to venture also to the West, that thereby they might cut off the Sinews of the King of _Spain_’s Wars, he being continually supply’d with Treasures from _America_.

[Sidenote: A _West-India_ Company erected by the _United States_.]

[Sidenote: _St. Salvador_ set upon by the _Dutch_ under _Peterszoon_ and
_Willekens_.]

[Sidenote: _St. Salvador_ taken by the _Dutch_.]

The grand Promoters of this Design were the Company of Merchants, who hitherto had Traded to _Guinee_; and the rather, because _Guinee_ brought them but little Profit. But to set upon the _Spanish_ Power, was a Business of no small Consequence; nevertheless they undertaking it, obtain’d Letters Patents from the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_, Anno 1621. for erecting of a _West-India_ Company, in which it was declar’d, That none without the said Companies leave should drive any Trade to _Africa_ from the Northern _Tropick_, to the Cape _Bonne Esperance_; nor to _America_ from _Terre-Neuf_ to the _Straights_ of _Magellan_, or _Le Maire_; nor in the South Sea to _Anian_; which if any attempted, they should forfeit Ship and Goods; besides several other Priviledges and Immunities granted towards the promoting and establishing of the said Company. After a long Consultation which way to steer their Course, it was concluded upon in the Council for the Affairs of the Company, to Invade _St. Salvador_ in the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, whether they sent twenty Men of War and three Ketches, Commanded by _Jacob Willekens_, and _Peter Peterszoon Hein_; the Land Forces being under the Command of Colonel _John van Dorth_. In the beginning of the Year 1624. the Fleet set Sail out of the _Texel_ and the _Maes_, and in five Moneths arriv’d at _St. Salvador_. As soon as the _Portugueses_ discover’d the _Dutch_ Fleet, they shot without ceasing from the Fort _Philippo_ with three Brass Guns, as also from the Castle _Tapagipe_, with four Demi-Canons, but chiefly from the Battlement rais’d threesquare out of the Water before _St. Salvador_, from whence they play’d at them with twelve great Guns, whilest the Vice-Admiral ran within Musquet-shot of the said Battlement with three Ships, and found fifteen _Portuguese_ Vessels lying near the Shore not far from the Castle _Philippo_, where there began a sharp Conflict, to the no small advantage of _Peter Hein_; who thereupon ventur’d with three Boats to Board the fifteen Ships: which resolute Attempt of the _Dutch_ Seamen so amaz’d the _Portuguese_, that they set their biggest Ships on Fire, and fled ashore: Those Ships that escap’d, being in all ten, the _Hollanders_ took and brought them to the Fleet. This flight of the _Portuguese_ encouraging _Peter Hein_, he went with fourteen Boats, each Mann’d with two hundred Arm’d Men upon the very Mouths of the Cannons to the fore-mention’d Battlement and took the same, notwithstanding the Stone Wall rose eight Foot out of the Water, and above a hundred _Portuguese_ defended it, whilest the Admiral _Willekens_ sent twelve hundred Soldiers, and two hundred and forty Seamen ashore with Field-Pieces. The Forlorn-Hope consisted of sixty Musquetteers, led by Captain _Helmond_, who was seconded by Lieutenant _La Main_, all the Seamen following with Spades and Pick-axes; the Reserve was brought up by Captain _Kyf_, _Ysenach_, and _William Schouten_; thus drawn out, they were led towards the City by the Guides _Dirk Colver_ and _Dirk de Ruiter_, along a narrow Way, which the _Portuguese_ might have guarded with a few Men, had they not been all struck with a pannick fear, and making use of the dark Night, fled into the Woods. The _Dutch_ found in the City an incredible Booty, because the Governor _Diego Mendoza de Furtado_ had forbid the carrying away of any Goods, that so the Citizens might be the easier perswaded to defend the City; which they might well have done, had they not been surpris’d with the suddenness of the Action; for when _Willekens_ Anchor’d here, there were above sixteen hundred Soldiers, besides a considerable number of Arm’d Citizens in _St. Salvador_; besides, in the Forts about the City on the Walls lay twenty three Brass, and twenty six Iron Guns.

This Victory was scarce obtain’d, when Colonel _Dorth_, who had lost the Fleet at _Point Vincent_, arriv’d here after all was done, and caus’d Edicts to be publish’d, in which the fled Citizens were promis’d greater Priviledges under the _Netherlanders_ Protection, than ever they had under the King of _Spain_. Whereupon a few _Portuguese_ return’d to the City; but the greatest part of them, and those the most considerable, were partly kept back by Command of the Bishop _Teixera_, who laid the fault concerning the loss of the City on the Governor _Furtado_, and partly because they judg’d the _Netherlanders_ unable to defend them against the _Spanish_ Power.

About the same time several rich laden Vessels arriv’d there from _Lisbon_, _Janeiro_, _Spirito Santo_, _Angola_ and other Places, all ignorant of the Conquest of _St. Salvador_.

[Sidenote: Col. _Dorth_ kill’d by an Ambuscade.]

Whilest _Dorth_ and _Willekens_ were ordering all things within the City, the outstaying _Portuguese_ at last taking courage, Storm’d the City from Midnight till the next day in the Afternoon, but fearing they should be set upon behind unawares, Retreated; after which _Dorth_ thinking he had been free from all fear of Enemies, and with a small Guard riding out of the City to take a view of the adjacent Countrey, was scarce got a Bowe-shot from the Walls, when a great Body of _Brasilians_ rush’d forth unexpectedly from an Ambuscade, and wounded him so mortally, that he fell dead from his Horse, and had his Head suddenly chopt off, and his Body mangled very terribly.

_Allart Schouten_ being chosen Governor in _Dorth_’s stead, took no care to fortifie the City; and after his Decease his Brother _William Schouten_ succeeding him, regarded it less, so that all things went to ruine, every one striving onely to enrich themselves. Amongst other Booties, they took the rich laden Vessel which _Francisco de Sarmiento_, Governor of _Chili_, brought to _St. Salvador_, with fifty eight thousand _Guilders_, and a much greater sum of Gold and Pearls, all which was imbezled away.

[Sidenote: Description of _St. Salvador_.]

This City _St. Salvador_, built by _Thomas de Sosa_ along the Sea-side, runs up broad at the Suburb _Carmo_, hath four Market-places, into the biggest whereof, being of a long square, run nine Streets, the chief of which being very broad, hath many stately Houses. The second Market-place is of like form, onely it winds a little towards the Right, and at the Entrance stands a strong Prison. The Cloyster _St. Francis_, inhabited by _Jesuits_, stands in a Park near the Wall by which the Moat runs. Towards the Sea-side they have a second Structure, much statelier than the _Franciscan_ Cloyster. Near the Prison stands the Armory, and somewhat farther the great Church, which _Anno 1624._ was not quite finish’d. The Church dedicated to the Virgin _Mary_ appears with a high Spire near the Gate _Bento_, without which the great Cloyster _Bento_ is built; but the chief Church is _St. Salvador_. On the utmost Point towards the South-West of the City lies the Fort _Antonio_, between which and the City stands a very neat Pleasure-house, belonging to the Bishop. Besides _Antonio_ there are four other considerable Forts, _viz._ _Diego_, _St. Maria_, _De Gracia_, and _Vittoria_. About half way between _Vittoria_ and the Cloyster _Bento_, stands the Castle with four Bulwarks; but on the North-side the City is guarded by the Forts _St. Peter_, _Philippo_, and _Tapecipe_.

[Sidenote: A great Fleet set out by the King of _Spain_ for the recovery
of _St. Salvador_.]

The _Spanish_ King seeming exceedingly concern’d at the loss of so eminent a Place, fitted out a great Fleet for the recovery of what had been taken from him; but the _Netherland West-India_ Company having notice of it, put themselves into a posture of Defence, and in a short time made ready eighteen Men of War and seven Ketches, Mann’d with a thousand six hundred and ninety Seamen, and a thousand three hundred and fifty Land-Soldiers, _John Dirkszoon Lam_ being Admiral: But news coming day after day of the extraordinary Preparations in _Spain_, it was judg’d convenient to strengthen the Fleet with fourteen Ships and two Ketches more, carrying a thousand four hundred and thirty Seamen, and five hundred eighty Soldiers, under the Command of General _Boudewyn Henrickszoon_, and Admiral _Andries Veron_. Moreover, the _West-India_ Company fitted out a third Fleet, consisting of four Frigats and three Ketches, Commanded by _Henry Kat_, with Orders to Cruise along the _Spanish_ Coast.

In the beginning of the Year 1625. _Frederick de Toledo_ weighed Anchor from _Cales_ with one and thirty Gallions, four Pinnaces, three Tartans, and a Carvel, all carrying seventy five hundred Men. The Soldiers were divided into three Regiments, Commanded by the Colonels _Pedro Osorio_, _Juan Orellana_, and the Marquess _De Torreclusa_.

[Sidenote: _St. Salvador_ re-taken by the _Spaniards_ from the
_Hollanders_.]

Near _St. Jago_ at the _African_ Cape _Verde_, _Toledo_ joyn’d with the _Portuguese_ Fleet, consisting of twenty one Gallions and fourteen Carvels and Barques, Mann’d with four thousand Seamen, two Regiments of Soldiers, Commanded by _Antonio Nunnez Barreio_, and _Francisco de Almeida_; but the chief Commander of this Fleet was _Emanuel Meneses_. Which great Fleet being arriv’d at _St. Salvador_, _Toledo_ himself Landed at the Fort _Antonio_, leaving the Command of the Fleet to _Juan Fajardo_: The first thing he did, was to set upon the Cloyster _Bento_; which having gain’d, he left Serjeant _Troppani_ with two Regiments in the same, whilest he went and Storm’d the _Carmelites_ Minster, and at last took it; but in the mean time four hundred _Hollanders_ Sallying out, made a furious Onset upon the two Regiments, who had possession of the Cloyster _Bento_, where the _Spaniards_ sustain’d considerable damage; for besides the wounding of three Captains, and the loss of a great number of Soldiers, there were slain the Commanders _Emanuel Aquitara_, _Alonso de Gana_, _Pedro San Stevan_, _Diego Espinosa_, and Colonel _Pedro Osorio_; But _Toledo_ no whit dismay’d hereat, but taking fresh courage, brought twenty nine Demi-Culverins ashore, which fir’d so vehemently out of the _Carmelites_ and _Bento_’s Cloysters, on the seventeen _Dutch_ Ships that lay near the Shore, that several of them were sunk, and others shatter’d beyond hopes of ever being repair’d. After this the _Spanish_ Army was divided into three several Parties, which continually fir’d on the City from three new rais’d Works; the chiefest Party, which was in the _Carmelites_ Minster, had twenty three Brass Guns; the second, plac’d on the great Wall of the Cloyster _Bento_, fir’d Night and Day with eight Demy-Cannons on the City, in which all things were in a confusion, whilest the Governor _William Schouten_ went unconcern’d from one Tavern to another railing at the Soldiers, who thereupon mutinying and deposing him, chose Serjeant _Hans Ernst Kyf_ in his room, who, as he was calling a Council of War, receiv’d a Summons from _Toledo_ to deliver up the City; at which _Kyf_ being much surpris’d, sent a Drummer with a Letter to _Toledo_, desiring him to grant the Besieged three Weeks time to repair and make fit their batter’d Vessels to carry them back for _Holland_; and also that they might, according to Martial Custom, march out with lighted Matches, flying Colours, Bullets in their Mouths, and with Bag and Baggage. To which _Toledo_ return’d Answer, That he was now in his own Countrey, and had gotten possession of four Fortifications about _St. Salvador_, on which he had planted thirty seven Cannons, and therefore saw no such necessity to grant the Besieged (who could not possibly expect any fresh Supplies) such advantageous and bold Demands; and onely promis’d them their Lives should be at his discretion. Yet at last _William Stoop_, _Hugh Antoniszoon_, and _Francis du Chesne_ being sent to the _Carmelites_ Cloyster, agreed with _Toledo_ on these Conditions: _That the_ Hollanders _should surrender_ St. Salvador _in the Condition it was then in, march out unarm’d, but with Baggage, and have a free Passage with Provisions and all things necessary allow’d them for their Transportation for_ Holland. Whereupon on the first of _May_ the City was deliver’d up to the _Spaniards_ in such disorder, that some of them had taken possession of the Gate _Bento_, before those on the other side of the City knew of any Agreement that was made between _Toledo_ and Colonel _Kyf_. And thus the Place which had a whole year been under the Jurisdiction of the _Netherlanders_, fell again under the possession of the _Spanish_ Crown, onely through the indiscreet management of the Commanders; for otherwise it was sufficiently strong, and well stor’d with Ammunition and Men, being able to make out two thousand. Moreover, the Ketch _De Haes_, was set out before from the _Holland_ Fleet, and brought news of the Forces that were sent from the _Netherland_ Havens to their assistance: But the Ships under Admiral _Lam_, as also those under _Boudewyn Henriczoon_, were stay’d a considerable time in their Harbors by contrary Winds, and at last reaching the _Line_ were becalm’d, and through the excessive heat of the Climate many Men lost by raging and mortal Distempers, insomuch that they reach’d not the Bay _Todos los Sanctos_ before the twenty sixth of _May_, on which they saw the _Spanish_ Flag streaming from the Walls of _St. Salvador_, and fifty great Ships riding at an Anchor near the Shore.

[Sidenote: The City _Porto Rico_ surpriz’d by _Henrickszoon_.]

[Sidenote: Capt. _Uzeel_ slain.]

The _Netherland_ Fleet, divided into four Squadrons, consisted of thirty four Sail, amongst which _Lam_ carry’d the Flag on the Main-top, the Vice-Admiral _Adrian Cheszoon_ on the Fore-top, the Rere-Admiral _Andries Veron_ on the Main-mast, and the Commander of the fourth Squadron on the Mizne-top: All of them seeing the _Spaniards_ absolute Masters, judg’d it most convenient to put to Sea; but standing a pretty while to the South, they found that the strong Current drove them to the Shelves on the West-side of the Inlet; wherefore Tacking about, they made towards the Enemy, who at first seem’d to meet them with twenty eight great Ships, but returning towards the City, the _Hollanders_ also stood to Sea again, Steering Southerly, though without making much advantage in their Way, the Sea going very hollow, and the strong Current setting them towards the Shore, by which means they were in no small danger before the River _Francisco_, where many of the Men dy’d for want of fresh Provisions, and the number of the Sick increas’d daily, insomuch that some of the Ships were like to perish for want of Men to guide them: It was also judg’d dangerous to lie longer with such a great Fleet near a Lea-Shore, therefore they put into the Inlet _Trayciaon_, which lies a League to the Northward of the River _Monguapigape_, from whence a ridge of Rocks extends to _Trayciaon_, and being overflow’d at High-water, hath three Openings or Entrances, two for great Ships, and one, the most Northern, for small Vessels to pass through: The Sea also breaking against this Cliff never molests the Ships whatever Winds blow. The Countrey is overgrown with Brambles, and hath a Lake two Leagues long, and a quarter broad, on the opposite Shore of which stood a Village, inhabited by _Portugueses_ and _Brasilians_; but the _Portugueses_ flying from thence left the _Brasilians_ in absolute possession: The _Hollanders_ going thither found thirty Chests of Sugar in one Hut; after which the Admiral _Lam_ caus’d his sick Men to be brought ashore, whilest the Captains _Boshuisen_, _Swart_, _Dyke_, _Stapels_, and _Uzeel_, march’d up into the Countrey, where they got plenty of Oranges and Cattel. In the mean time the Ketch _Vosken_, Mann’d with thirty six Seamen, Cruising along the Sea-Coast of _Brasile_, took three Ships, one out of the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, laden with Sugar and Tobacco, another with the same Merchandise from _Pernambuco_, and the third laden with Wines from _Madera_. On the first of _August_ the Fleet set Sail again, to the great sorrow of the _Brasilians_, who out of hopes of being protected by them against the _Portuguese_, had joyn’d their Forces with theirs; but now being forsaken, they expected nothing but utter Ruine; which to escape, many of them desir’d to be admitted to go along with the Fleet, which had been granted them, had not the _Hollanders_ wanted Provisions for themselves. The Fleet getting off at Sea, the Admiral _Veron_ ran with twelve Sail to the Coast of _Africa_; and _Boudewyn Henrickszoon_ kept eighteen Ships under his Command, the rest returning home with Admiral _Lam_: and thus the Fleet left the unfortunate Haven _Trayciaon_, where above seven hundred _Dutch_ Seamen were bury’d. _Boudewyn Henrickszoon_ refreshing at _Cape St. Vincent_, steer’d Westerly, when a Storm (which in twenty four hours blew from all Points of the Compass) surprising him, broke his Main-mast, separated the whole Fleet, and sunk the _Flushing_ Frigat; at last getting beyond the Isle _Virgin Gorda_, the Fleet meeting again, got to _Juan de Porto Rico_ about the latter end of _September_; into whose Haven _Henrickszoon_ Sail’d with great courage, notwithstanding the narrow Mouth thereof was guarded by a strong Fort full of Brass Guns, which fir’d very fiercely upon him, who on the other side was not idle in discharging his Guns on the Fort; and had not the shallow Water before the City prevented his Landing that day, he had gotten a far greater Booty than afterwards he met with; for the Inhabitants had, during the Low-water, remov’d all their best Goods: but the next Morning before Sun-rising, the Admiral Landed with eight hundred Men, march’d into the City without any resistance, pitch’d the _States_ Flag on the Governor’s House, guarded all Avenues, unhoop’d all the Wine-Casks which he found there, for fear his Men should make themselves Drunk therewith, and so neglect their Duty, fir’d from the Land-side towards the Castle with three Brass Guns, gain’d the Redoubt, built for the security of the Bridge, which unites the small Isle on which _Porto Rico_ is built with the great, rais’d a Platform, from whence he fir’d Day and Night with six Cannons, guarded by Captain _Thyene_, whilest the Commander _Uzeel_ kept Watch near the Fort; but his Men being most of them sick, he could not do any great Exploits, especially since the _Spaniards_ Sallying out, as they did daily, kill’d many of the _Hollanders_, and amongst them Captain _Uzeel_, after he had shot down two Turrets from the Castle, which damage the Enemy repair’d by taking several of the _Hollanders_ Boats; by which means they could not prevent fresh Supplies from going to the Castle; the Besiegers in the mean time beginning daily to be in greater want for Ammunition and Provisions: whereupon _Henrickszoon_ judg’d it convenient to sound a Retreat, after he had set the Ships belonging to the City _Porto Rico_ on fire in four places. In which Retreat he receiv’d so many farewel Shots from the Fort, that they were forc’d to go to the Leeward to stop their Leaks, and leave one of their Ships to the Enemy, in lieu whereof the _West-Capel_ Frigat took a Barque with four Brass Guns, in the little Haven _Sierra Gorda_; from whence the Fleet ran into the Western Bay of the Island _Porto Rico_, where whilest they repair’d and took in fresh Provisions, _Henrickszoon_ sent the Ships _Hester_ and _Jonas_ richly laden for _Holland_; the remaining part of the Fleet meeting with strong contrary Tydes at _Porto Rico_, were necessitated to put into the Inlet _Francisco_, where they made several Marches up into the Countrey, to the loss of many of their Men, which were kill’d by the _Spaniards_, lying in Ambuscade amongst the Brambles that grew along by the Ways.

[Sidenote: The Fort of _Margarita_ taken by _Henrickszoon_.]

[Sidenote: _Henrickszoon_ dying, is succeeded by _Adrian Cheszoon_.]

In the middle of _January_, Anno 1626. _Henrickszoon_ Sailing about the North of _Porto Rico_, steer’d to _Dominico_, and from thence along the Isles _Martinigo_, _Luzia_, and the Promontory _De tres Puntas_, towards the Island _Margarita_, where Landing, and Storming the Castle on the Land-side with fifteen Men, he gain’d the first Breastworks; but the _Spaniards_ stopping up the Way along which they were to return, they had without doubt been all slain, had not the Captains _Stapel_ and _Estienne_ come to their assistance; for the _Spaniards_ seeing them climbing up the Bulwarks, betook them to their Heels, after they had kill’d nine of the fore-mention’d fifteen, amongst whom were the Captains _Urk_ and _Molkman_: of those that leap’d over into the Ditch most part escap’d; those few that were taken inform’d the _Hollanders_, That the Way towards the Village, inhabited by _Spaniards_, was every where stopt up with Barricado’s, through which none were able to pass. _Henrickszoon_ thus become Master of the Fort, sent the Booty which he had gotten there, together with three Brass, and five Iron Guns, aboard of his Ship, blew up the Fort, burnt all the Houses, and ran into the Haven _Muchina_, to which he gave the Denomination of _Port Maurice_; where, besides a great number of dry’d Fish, he took forty Tun of Salt out of one Salt-pit. After this he taking in fresh Provisions at _St. Fe_, discover’d _Aves_, a low Isle full of high Trees, took above two hundred Sheep, and abundance of red Wood on _Bonaire_, and before the Coast a _Spanish_ Frigat richly laden, made Inspections into the Havens of _Hispaniola_ and _Jamaica_; from whence he fell back on the Coast of _Porto Rico_, about the Island _Mona_, where discovering four _Spanish_ Ships, he took three of them, and burnt the fourth; he also got abundance of Tortoises and Crocodiles on the great _Caiman_, and took a new Ship between the little sandy Isles _Caios_, as also before _Cuba_ a Barque, which inform’d him, That the Fleet from the _Honduras_, as also that from _New Spain_, was daily expected at _Havana_: Thence Sailing into the Haven _Cabannas_, he took a new Vessel of a hundred Tun, and abundance of Timber and Carpenters Tools on the Shore; he Landed also with seven hundred Men on the East-side of the Haven, from whence he march’d along a narrow Path a League up into the Countrey, where he found a running Stream, Pastures full of Cattel, and a Village, the Inhabitants whereof being warn’d by the Barking of their Dogs, fled, and left all manner of fresh Provisions to the _Hollanders_, viz. above two thousand Oranges, abundance of Lemmons, _Bananas_, Hogs, Calves, and Bacon; all which having sent aboard, they burnt the Village: After this they took a _Spanish_ Barque before _Havana_, as also a Ship laden with Timber, another Barque with Poultry, _Cochenile_, Money, and Haberdashery Ware, one Vessel with live Tortoises, and another, full of Salt, dry’d Fish, and some Merchandise. While the Fleet was thus Cruising up and down before _Havana_, the Admiral _Henrickszoon_ dy’d; a Man of most approv’d Valor, and of great Conduct: After which _Adrian Cheszoon_ carry’d the Flag; but the Men mutinying about the dividing of the Provisions, which began to grow very scarce, all things fell into great disorder; the Seamen rebell’d against their Commanders, saying, _That they had been out long enough, and that they would not stay waiting any longer for the Fleet from_ New Spain _or_ Honduras: Wherefore steering Home, they all arriv’d safe at the _Texel_ and other places in _Holland_.

In our foregoing Relation we have given you an Account of the Fleet which came to assist the City of _St. Salvador_, divided into two Squadrons; eighteen Sail _Boudewyn Henrickszoon_ kept under his Command, and twelve Sail remain’d in the Admiral _Veron_’s Squadron, who Sail’d to the Inlet _Serre Leona_, where he found the Admiral _John Dirkszoon Lam_ with three Ships, which had lay’n there above two Moneths, by reason of the Sickness amongst the Seamen.

[Sidenote: A strange kind of Baboon.]

_Frambore_, King of this Place, granted _Lam_ and _Veron_ free liberty to Hunt, and to gather as many Oranges and Lemmons as they pleas’d, with which the Seamen were so refresh’d, that they set Sail again, and amongst many other things carry’d a Baboon with them from _Sierra Leona_, which so exactly resembled a Man, that it was wonderful to behold, having a Body, Hands, Eyes, Ears, Feet, and Actions like a Man, smoak’d Tobacco amongst the Seamen, made a noise like a Child when beaten. The Inhabitants of _Sierra Leona_, where these Monsters run in great Companies through the Woods, believe that the Souls of the Deceased reside in them.

_John de Laet_, in his annual Journal of the Transactions of the _West-India_ Company, affirms, That he saw a Female of these monstrous Creatures, which usually had her monethly Flowers.

[Sidenote: The _Hollanders_ ill success before the Castle _Del Mine_.]

The Fleet, as is before mention’d, Sailing from _Sierra Leona_, came to an Anchor at _Commany_, and Landed twelve hundred Men at _Poquena_, besides a hundred and fifty _Negro_’s; which Regiment _Andries Veron_ and _Arend Jacobszoon_ carry’d to the Castle _Del Mine_, whither they before sent a Company, Commanded by _Hans Gryf_, to prevent the Sallies of the Enemy. The _Hollanders_ tir’d and thirsty, Encamp’d themselves near the Fort, and whilest some of the Men were seeking for Water, others smoaking Tobacco, and lying without their Arms and in disorder on the Ground, and the Commanders were taking a view of the Fort from a neighboring Hill, two hundred _Negro_’s fell upon the scatter’d Army with great rage and fury, and so much the greater, in regard the _Portuguese_ had promis’d them great sums of Money for every _Hollander_ they kill’d: never any Army was in such a distraction, they being dispers’d and kill’d like so many Sheep, the Admiral _Veron_ and all the Officers slain, and in a short time four hundred and forty Men cut off; and had not Captain _Arend Jacobszoon_ been in League with the Inhabitants of _Commany_, whither the routed Regiments fled, not one Man had escap’d that bloody Slaughter: Nor was it to much purpose to Besiege the Castle _Del Mine_, because the Bullets hitting against the Walls of the Castle, built all of Rock-stones, did no Execution. But the four Ships inform’d of this miserable destruction, fell down to _Commany_, to fetch those that were left alive, and return’d home with the other eleven.

During the unfortunate Expedition of this Fleet, the _West-India Company_ fitted out nine great Ships and five Ketches in the beginning of the Year 1626. under the Command of _Peter Peterszoon Hein_, to Cruise for the _Spanish_ Ships that were expected from _New Spain_ and _Honduras_.

The _Fox_ Frigat being sent before to inform _Henrickszoon_ of _Heyn_’s coming, reach’d about the latter end of _May_ beyond the Isles _Dominico_, _Guadalupa_, _Mevis_, _St. Christophers_, and by _Santa Crux_; there not finding a Harbor on the South-side, because of the Rocks, she Sail’d from _Mona_ over to the Main Coast, where seven Leagues Westward of _Carakess_, he discover’d a high broken Land, whose Mountains seem’d to reach to the Clouds; from thence she steer’d to the Promontory _Caldera_, the Isles _Margareta_ and _Coche_, on which last he took abundance of Goats, not without the loss of forty six Men, kill’d by the _Spaniards_ and _Indians_.

Mean while the Admiral _Peter Heyn_, in the beginning of _June_, Sail’d to the Southward of _Barbados_, an Island pretty mountainous, as hath been formerly mention’d, and full of Woods, and by _Martinino_, whose Hills are very high and overgrown with Trees. Here _Peter Heyn_ could get nothing else but sweet Water, and a Fruit resembling a green Grape, which grew on a round Leav’d Tree, whose Juice cur’d the Scurvey. Sailing from hence, and Landing on _Guadalupa_, he found a _Canoo_ seven Fathom long and one broad, and cut out of one Tree. The Inhabitants, a well timber’d People, went stark naked, and desir’d to be excus’d, that they could not furnish the _Hollanders_ with more Provisions, because the _French_ and _English_, Inhabitants of _St. Christophers_, had pillag’d them.

[Sidenote: Success of the _Dutch_ against the _Portuguese_ Fleet.]

Near _Mona_ the _Fox_ Frigat joyn’d with the Fleet, with information, that he could hear no tydings of _Henrickszoon_; wherefore _Peter Heyn_ judg’d it convenient to Sail along the South-Coast of _Hispaniola_ with a separated Fleet, which was to joyn again near the great _Caiman_. Near _Cape de Corientes_ the _Dutch_ took a _Spanish_ Ship laden with _Sarsaparilla_; after that another with Salt and Fish, and on the Shelves before _Coche_ before the Promontory _Antonio_, a Fly-boat with Tallow and Hides, and at the same places two Vessels more with Ballast, the Men whereof inform’d him, that the Fleet from _New Spain_ had about a Moneth before weigh’d Anchor from the Haven _Juan de Ulva_, and set Sail to _Havana_, so that without doubt they were arrived there; wherefore _Peter Heyn_ steer’d towards _Tortugos_, in hopes, if he could, to overtake some of the heavy Sailers. Before the Promontory _De Florida_ he discover’d seven Sail, and coming up nearer, above thirty, which, had _Henrickszoon_ been united with _Peter Heyn_, had without doubt fallen into the hands of the _Netherlanders_; but it being judg’d a madness to set upon so great a Fleet with so small a number of Ships, they Sail’d away undisturb’d. _Peter Heyn_ steer’d his Course along _Florida_, where he met three _Canoos_ with strange Men in them, who came aboard of him, their Bodies being naked, were painted with several colours, onely Mats of Rushes about their Middle, and on their Backs long Tassels hanging down: their Merchandise consisted of a sort of Gum of little value. The _Netherlanders_ in this Place took also a Vessel with _Sina_ Leaves, and some pounds of Ambergreece: but the Scurvey increasing daily amongst them, they Tack’d about, and ran to an Anchor at _Sierra Leona_, where they stay’d till the latter end of _January 1627._ and then set Sail to _Brasile_, and overtook a Vessel from _Madera_ laden with a hundred and fifty Pipes of Wine, and other rich Goods, and ran into the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_ with undaunted courage, not regarding the Guns that were fir’d from the Fort and Battlements of the City _St. Salvador_, near which lay thirty Sail of Ships, to which he making up, steer’d between the _Portuguese_ Admiral and Rere-Admiral, whom sinking, he forc’d the Admiral to surrender, whilest the _Hollandia_ and _Gelria_ Frigats fell upon the rest, which were forsaken by the Seamen, who leap’d over-board; then several Mann’d Boats of the _Hollanders_ (notwithstanding the Enemy’s continual firing) went and fetch’d off twenty two Sail of the _Portuguese_ Vessels; all which they did in three hours time, onely with the loss of fifty Men, besides some that were wounded, amongst whom was the Admiral, being shot with a Bullet through the Arm, and wounded in the Legs with a Splinter; his Ship also was, with the _Gelria_ Frigat, driven with the Spring-Tide on a Bank, whence, after the _Gelria_ had receiv’d above sixty Shot from the Enemy, they both got off at last; but the Admiral’s Frigat being shot in a manner to a Wreck, was set on fire, which Misfortune ended not there, for the _Orange-tree_ Frigat blew up, with sixty Men, fourteen whereof, though miserably scorch’d, had their Lives sav’d. Soon after which the Admiral sent into _Holland_ the Ship _St. Peter_, the _Hoop_, _Nostra Sennora de la Vittoria_, and the _Black-Lyon_, which besides their Lading of Hides, Silver, Gold, and Precious Stones, were most of them full of Sugar; which safely arriving, did not a little encourage the _West-India_ Company. After this _Heyn_ took two Ships with Slaves from _Angola_, which because the Governor of _St. Salvador_ would not redeem, were put ashore on _Taperica_. On the last of _March_ he set Sail from the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, pass’d by _Morro Pablo_, and on _Easter_ Eve with a strong Gale by the _Abrolhos_: before the Highland between _Cape Frio_ and the River _De Jenero_, he discover’d two Sail, one whereof being laden with Sugar was taken, but the other escap’d in the Night; then Sailing on to the meandring Stream _Spirito Sancto_, he digg’d Pits on some of the River-Isles to get fresh Water, because it was not safe to Land on the Continent on each side, because the Inhabitants shot frequent showers of Arrows from the Thickets, in which they lay ambuscaded. Moreover the Town _Spirito Sancto_ sent off several Fire-ships at the time of Flood, but they being easily quench’d did no harm. Here also a Vessel laden at _Lisbon_ with Wines and Piece-Goods, was taken by _Heyn_, who setting Sail again divided the Fleet into three Squadrons, the Vice-Admiral _Cornelis Oole_ keeping three Ships to Cruise withal before the River _La Plata_, _Henrick Best_ had one Frigat, a Ketch, and a Carvel, to guard the Mouth of the Stream _Jenero_, whilest the Admiral himself Sail’d with four Frigats, three Ketches, and a Barque, towards the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, where two Ships riding near the Shore by the Fort _Tapecipe_, were by him set on fire. Also taking a Barque he was inform’d, that six laden Vessels lay in the River _Tapecipe_, whither he sending some Boats to explore the truth, they found a great Ship without Men in the Mouth of the Stream, and half a League farther six _Portuguese_ Vessels lying near the Shore; bringing back news thereof to the Admiral, he went aboard of the _Fox_ Ketch the next Morning, and taking two Ketches and several Boats with him, Sail’d up the River, and perceiv’d that the fore-mention’d six Ships were gotten up higher, and were Mann’d with a hundred and fifty Soldiers, Commanded by Captain _Padilha_; the _Portuguese_ Admiral lying in Ambuscade, no sooner perceiv’d the _Netherlanders_ Boats, but he let flie a whole Volley of small Shot at them, insomuch that it made them Retreat, and their whole Design had been fruitless, had not _Heyn_ animated his Men to board the Vice-Admiral; which encouragement prov’d so successful that they master’d the same, killing all those that fell into their hands; which so amaz’d the two Vessels that lay by, that all the Men swam ashore, and left their rich Lading to the disposal of the _Hollanders_, besides which the vanquish’d Party lost above a hundred and fifty Men, and the Conquerors but fifteen. Somewhat farther up lay three Ships more, but the River being dry there at Low-water, and so narrow that the Trees on each Shore could touch one another, _Heyn_ judg’d it convenient to prosecute the Design no farther, but to return with the three fore-mention’d Prizes, which he did not without great difficulty; for the _Portuguese_ had rais’d Battlements on each side of the Mouth of the River _Tapecipe_, and stopt the same with a sunk Vessel, which _Heyn_ himself set on fire at Low-water, and return’d untouch’d through thick Volleys of Shot, which flew about his Ears to the Fleet, leaving the three Ships to be fetcht off afterwards; to which end he commanded that they should hang some of the taken Hides about the _Fox_ Ketch’s Pinnace, the Carvel and Boats, that so the Men which were in them might stand secure from the small Shot, and the rather, because the Ships could not be got out of the shallow and narrow River but by Toeing. Mean while the Governor of _St. Salvador_ lay with a considerable number of Citizens and Soldiers behind the fore-mention’d Battlements, not doubting but to take revenge for the Losses sustain’d by _Heyn_; who nevertheless coming down thither Toed out the three Prize-ships with Boats hung about with Hides, firing into the Enemies Battlements with his great Guns, which he had put aboard of the _Fox_ Ketch. About the middle of _June_ he took in the Prize-goods in view of the City _St. Salvador_, where seven _Netherland_ Ships from several places lay at an Anchor. Setting Sail from hence on the fourteenth of _July_, and reaching _Noronho_, known by a Mountain which appears like a Steeple, he met with _Cornelis Oole_’s Fleet, (who had been Cruising before _La Plata_) with whom he arriv’d safe in the _Texel_, having in their Way thither from _Noronho_ taken a Prize, laden with Sugar, Tobacco, and _Brasile_ Wood.

[Sidenote: _Thomas Sickes_ his Expedition.]

[Sidenote: _Henrick Lucifer_ set out by the _West-India_ Company.]

During _Peter Heyn_’s Expedition _Thomas Sickes_, fitted out by the _West-India_ Company, weighed Anchor out of the _Texel_ with two Sail, and coming to _St. Vincent_ he found a _Spanish_ Vessel burnt down to the Hulk, took a _Portuguese_ Pink with Slaves from _Angola_: Near the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_ he sunk a Barque, having first taken several Pots of Oyl and Packs of Linnen out of the same: Before _Pernambuco_ he took a Carvel with a hundred and eighty Pipes of Wine, and a Vessel with Sugar and Hides, and drove another ashore against the Promontory _St. Augustine_. But _Sickes_ being supply’d and strengthned by three Ships from the _Texel_, and four taken Vessels, ran with four to _Todos los Sanctos_, sent two to Cruise about _Cape St. Augustine_, and two more to the North of _Pernambuco_; At the Isle _Noronho_ they were order’d to stay a Moneth one for another, from whence, after much hardship, they return’d home with so many rich Prizes, that they pay’d their Charges ten times double; which so encourag’d the Adventurers, that the Chamber of the _West-India_ Company in _Zealand_ fitted out three Sail under the Command of _Henrick Lucifer_, who weighing Anchor from _Flushing_ Anno 1627. steer’d along the Coast of _Africa_ to the _Amazone_ River, and from thence North North-West to the Stream _Wiapoco_, to settle a Colony there; to which purpose Rowing up the River with Sloops, they came in the Night to two empty Houses, built at a place call’d _Wacogenive_, which they judg’d fit for their purpose; wherefore they carry’d all things ashore which they had brought out of _Zealand_ with them for the new Planters, who while they were all busie building of Huts, a _Negro_ was taken Prisoner, who being ask’d why the Inhabitants fled? reply’d, That it was occasion’d from a guilty Conscience; for two years before a Barque and two Sloops with _Christians_ coming thither from the _Amazone_ River, had stay’d thirty days on _Wacogenive_, when unawares they were set upon by the Natives, and all kill’d except three, who were yet living. Upon which _Lucifer_, having four _Indians_, three Men and one Woman, aboard of his Vessel, threatned to put them all to the Sword, unless they would produce the three foremention’d _Christians_: Whereupon the next day a _German_ came to the Water side, of whom they could get little Information, he having in a manner forgot his native Tongue; but at length the other two coming thither, the eldest of them, nam’d _John Hendricszoon_, related to him, That the _Portuguese_ in great numbers fell upon the Plantations near the _Amazone_ River, Govern’d by Captain _Oudaen_, who after he had fought valiantly a whole day, being overpower’d by number, retreated to his Barque, and Sail’d into the Creek inhabited by the _English_, whither the _Portuguese_ following in _Canoos_, cut off not onely _Oudaen_, but the _English_ also, forty six Men onely escaping in a Barque under the Command of Lieutenant _Peter de Bruine_ to the River _Wiapoco_; where they had stay’d about three days, when Sergeant _Matruit_ treacherously shot Lieutenant _Bruine_: after which the forty six divided themselves into four Parties; but the Inhabitants to rid themselves of these Strangers, under the shew of great friendship, made them Drunk with the Liquor call’d _Pernau_, and then murder’d them all, except himself and two _Germans_. Which villanous act _Lucifer_ judg’d worthy of punishment; but his Orders being to shew Kindness and Civility to the Inhabitants, he suffer’d the Murder to go unpunish’d, but built a triangular Fort near the River _Wiapoco_, on a Hill eight Fathom above the Shore, to prevent the passing by of Sloops; which done, he went to visit the Island _Blanco_, where he caught three hundred Goats. From thence he went to the Bay of _Honda_, the Inhabitants whereof are a valiant People, tall of Stature, having long Beards, and wearing Copper Rings through their Ears. Near the Sea-side is a Salt-pan, of which the Inhabitants make great benefit. _Lucifer_ setting Sail again from hence, met with three Ketches sent out by the _West-India_ Company at _Amsterdam_, before _Corientes_. The Commander _Dirk Simonszoon van Uitgeest_, steering his Course towards the Promontory _St. Anton_, took a Frigat laden with Meal, Silk, and other rich Goods, and within view of _Cuba_ near the River _Poros_, descrying two brave Gallions from _Honduras_, bore up to them with his three Ketches; one of which, call’d _The Lyon_, being got betwixt both the Gallions, was in no small danger, the _Netherlanders_ not being able to get up out of their little Vessel into the high Gallions, in which the _Spaniards_ stood pushing them down with their Pikes; but no sooner did the _Netherlanders_ throw their Hand-Granado’s amongst them, but _Uitgeest_ got aboard of the Gallion, and carry’d her off, whilest the other by nimble Sailing got away. With this Prize _Uitgeest_ thinking himself sufficiently enrich’d, steer’d homewards.

_Joost Johnson_ and _Claes Henrickszoon_, Commanding each of them a Ketch, took a Ship coming from _Lisbon_ before _Pernambuco_, laden with Meal, Salt, Wine, and thirty Monks; and not long after a Pink with six hundred _Negro_’s, a Barque with Salt and Iron, a Ketch with Wine, and a Frigat with _Brasile_ Wood, Sugar and Tobacco: Before _Itamerica_ they took two Prizes more; with all which they return’d to the _Texel_.

[Sidenote: _Peter Adrianszoon_’s Expedition.]

The _West-India_ Company thus enrich’d by the Spoil taken from their Enemies, fitted out twelve Ships again under the Command of _Peter Adrianszoon Ita_, which set Sail in the beginning of the Year 1628. and anchor’d first before _Blanca_, an Isle abounding with Goats, the Ground stonie, and in some places Rocky, and having a small, but very convenient Haven, from whence _Ita_ ran beyond _Porto Rico_, where he took a Vessel with seven thousand weight of Ginger, and Landed opposite to _Hispaniola_ on the stonie Isle _Catalina_, where he took in fresh Water, and then Cruis’d to and again before _Cuba_, took six Barques, the Prisoners whereof inform’d him, That the _Honduras_ Traders were on their Way coming thither, and that they had two small Men of War for their Convoy: Not long after _Ita_ discover’d them Sailing along the Shore towards the Haven of _Havana_, but before they could get in, Captain _John Peters_, whose Ketch carry’d two Brass, and fourteen Iron Guns, boarded the Vice-Admiral, but having no Graplings to take hold with, the _Spanish_ Ship ran aground, as likewise _John Peterszoon_ in the pursuit of him; which the Admiral seeing, came to assist his Vice-Admiral, and ran aground on one side of _John Peters_, which drove the _Netherlanders_ Ketch in great danger, she not being able to do Execution with her small Guns, whilest the _Spaniards_ with their Demy-Cannon play’d vehemently upon her; neither was _Ita_, by reason of calmness and contrary Tide, able to come up with them, but was forc’d to stand Northerly, that so he might get an Easterly Wind, which about Noon always blows fresh here, and so by degrees got near the _Spanish_ Fleet, till at last coming up with the Vice-Admiral, call’d _St. Jago_, he threw Fire-pots into her, and presently after boarding her, enter’d with that Valor, that of three hundred _Spaniards_ above a hundred and fifty were slain; for those that leapt over-board were kill’d in the Water, whilest _Joachim Guyszoon_, _John Braems_, and _Anthony Gonde_ fell upon the Admiral _Sennora de los Remedios_, and took her. In both these Ships _Ita_ took Two thousand five hundred Chests of Indigo, above Six thousand Hides, Two thousand five hundred Packs of _Sarsaparilla_, several Pots of Balsam Oyl, Seventy thousand Pound of Ginger, One and twenty Bars of Silver, Twelve Brass, and Twenty eight Iron Guns; all which having taken out, he set fire in both the Ships.

A little before this Victory, the _Fortune_ Frigat weighed Anchor from _Flushing_, with sixty three Men of War, to be Landed on the Island _Tabago_. At _St. Vincent_ they found two Men that were left of seven, who having setled along the River _Wiapow_, under Captain _John Van Ryen_, were forc’d by the salvage Natives to remove, two whereof dyed by the way, the remaining five landing on the Isle _Trinidad_, had three of their Companions kill’d by the _Indians of Granada_, they being _French-men_, to whom the Natives bore an inveterate Hatred, so that they left onely the two _Hollanders_ alive. The _Fortune_ assisted by the _South-star_ Ketch, took a rich Barque near the _Isles des Virgines_.

[Sidenote: _Vitgeest_’s Exploits.]

Not long after the _West-India_ Company set out twelve Ships more, under the Command of _Derick Simonszon Uitgeest_, (who had the year before brought home the two fore-mention’d great Prizes,) who setting Sayl and getting into the large Bay of the Rocky Island _Vincent_, catch’d several Goats and Tortels. Before the Coast of _Brasile_ he took two rich _Carvels_, one from _Pernambuco_, and another from the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_; which Prizes having sent home with three Ketches, he sayl’d towards _Sierra Leona_, known by high and thick Woods, which grow on a high Coast; from whence returning again to _Pernambuco_, he took six rich laden Vessels, amongst which was one Gallioon from _Goa_, with a great Treasure of Diamonds.

[Sidenote: _Peter Hein_’s Expedition.]

[Sidenote: He gives chace to the _Spanish_ Plate-Fleet, & takes several
of them.]

These successful Expeditions of the Fleets set out from time to time by the _West-India_ Company, enabled and encourag’d them to undertake Matters of greater consequence, _viz._ They fitted out one and thirty Sail, which carryed four thousand Men, one hundred and thirty Brass Guns, and five hundred fifty eight Iron Guns; of which _Peter Peterszoon Hein_ being Admiral, took near the Soundings of _Tortuga_, two Barques from _Havana_, the Men whereof inform’d him, that the Plate-Fleet was not yet arriv’d there, nor that from _Terra Firma_, but were both expected every day. The strong Current drove _Peter Hein_ farther Eastward beyond _Havana_ than he expected, insomuch that he got sight of _Matanca_, where he overtook a Barque sent out by _Landronce de Cabrera_, Governor of _Havana_, to give notice to the Plate Fleet of the _Hollanders_ Ships, which he had seen from the Castle _Morro_ before _Havana_: Mean while _John Van Hoorn_ took a Vessel which was sent out before by the Plate Fleet, the Men whereof inform’d him that the Fleet it self was near at hand; which _Peter Hein_ found to be true, when the next Morning before Sun-rising he descry’d ten Sayl, of which some had ignorantly sayled to Leeward, and others to Windward of the _Dutch_ Fleet; nine of them which were Laden with Hides, Meal, Campeche-Wood, Cochinele, Indigo, and other rich Goods, were taken by several Mann’d Sloops, because the Ships were not able to come up to them by reason of the Calm. About Noon _Peter Hein_ discovering nine Gallions more, made sudden Chace after them; which they perceiving, made toward the Shore, and about Twilight in the Evening they ran aground in the Bay of _Matanca_, where the Commanders Landing saved themselves, each carrying with him what Jewels they could. About Break of Day _Peter Hein_ made all the Sayl he could possible to come up with them, and seeing them fast aground, leapt into a Boat and Rowed up to the Admiral, who fired eight Guns, whilest his Men got ashore: _Hein_ approaching the Gallioon, saw no way to get up, till at last one of his Men spying a Rope, climb’d up the same, and made fast other Ropes for his Companions to get up by, the _Spaniards_ standing still gaping upon him, as if their feet and hands had been ty’d, which made _Peter Hein_ grant them their Lives; which the other Gallions seeing, surrender’d themselves upon promise of Quarter; by which the _Spanish_ Crown lost, besides the Musk, Bezoar, Ambergreece, and the Cargo of two Gallioons and a rich Prize, above One hundred and fifty Tun of Gold.