Chapter M (6)

_Arcisseusky_ had by this time built on the North part of the Mouth of _Paripuera_ a Redoubt like a Castle, out of the middle whereof rose a woodden Tower, fill’d with Earth, and secur’d by a Half-Moon; on one side whereof he lay Encamp’d with fifteen Companies. On the South side of the River stood also two strong Forts. _Arcisseusky_ having not the least thought that _Borgia_ would come over the Mountains, and through inaccessible Woods and Morasses, a back Way into _Porto Calvo_, receiv’d news on the thirteenth of _January_ 1636. by a Renegade _Negro_, that the _Spanish_ Army, consisting of three thousand Men, were come to _Rodrigo de Barros_ his Sugar-Mills, about five Leagues from _Paripuera_, and was suddenly expected to fall upon Colonel _Schuppe_ in _Porto Calvo_; whereupon _Arcisseusky_ immediately set forth with twelve hundred Men and two Field-pieces, burnt all the Houses, Sugar-Mills and Canes he could meet with. Mean while _Borgia_ (upon whose Approach _Schuppe_ had left _Porto Calvo_) observing by the Smoak in the Countrey, that _Arcisseusky_ had put his Edicts in Execution, leaving a considerable Garrison in _Porto Calvo_, went to meet _Arcisseusky_ with the choicest Men. _Arcisseusky_ being got between _Camarigibi_ and _Porto Calvo_, without having any notice of the Enemy’s being so near, and his Forlorn being unawares Engag’d, and running back in great disorder, drew up his Men into a posture of Defence about a Musquet-shot from the Enemy; but the darkness of the Night made a great confusion in both Armies, being as it were mingled pell-mell one with another. _Arcisseusky_ was much inferior in number to the _Spaniards_, but considering it was impossible to march back, in regard the Enemy was as well behind them as before, and that thousands of _Brasilians_ lay watching for them in the Woods, in case they should be dispers’d, he saw there was no way but to stand to the hazard of Battel. About Day-break both Armies stood an hour looking upon one another; the place where they stood being surrounded with Woods and deep Valleys. _Borgia_ drew out his Men on a Hill, overgrown with Bushes. _Arcisseusky_ had drawn out his Men on somewhat a lower Ground. _Borgia_ at last sent some of his Musquetteers down the Hill, who fir’d with a full Volley upon the _Dutch_, whilest _Arcisseusky_ onely discharg’d a Field-piece at a Tree, under which _Borgia_ stood to take a view of the _Hollanders_ Forces; upon the firing of which Gun _Borgia_ began to come down the Hill with all his Army, against whom _Arcisseusky_ drew out his first and second Division, whilest Captain _Vanden Brande_ led his Companies within two Pikes length from the Enemy, before he discharg’d, which was no sooner done, but contrary to Order they broke into the left Wing of _Borgia_’s Army, and put his Musquetteers to flight, who were soon follow’d by the whole _Spanish_ Army, some running into the Woods, others into the Morasses, but most of them along the narrow Way which leads to _Porto Calvo_. Among the Slain was _Borgia_ himself, who was Descended from the greatest Families of the Dukes of _Lerma_ and _Borgia_; he was about forty eight years of Age, and had serv’d the _Spanish_ King a considerable time in the _Netherlands_. This Victory cost the _Hollanders_ about forty Men, besides as many more wounded. Amongst the _Spanish_ Prisoners was a _Neapolitan_ Gentleman, call’d _Hector de la Calce_, who upon Examination inform’d the _Hollanders_, That with the last _Spanish_ Fleet there Landed two thousand four hundred Men in _Alagoa_, with twenty Brass Field-pieces, abundance of Wheelbarrows, Spades and Pick-axes, which cost in _Portugal_ eight hundred thousand _Crusado_’s; with which great warlike Preparations _Borgia_ made no doubt to have got fast footing in the Countrey, and to have cut off all manner of Assistance from the _Hollanders_; That the _Spanish_ King rais’d a great many Men both in _Spain_, _Italy_, and _Germany_, that with the first opportunity he might fit out a Fleet, which was to be conducted by four thousand two hundred Seamen, to whom the _Castilians_ were to add eight thousand five hundred Soldiers and two hundred Seamen, and the _Portuguese_ the like number, to serve ashore, and to drive all Strangers out of _Brasile_; That this Design had long since been put in Execution, had not the _Albuquerquers_ continually deceiv’d the King of _Spain_, under pretence that _Brasile_ was in no danger; That _Albuquerque_ would be forc’d to resign up the Interest which he had in _Brasile_, for which the King would give him a Dukedom in _Portugal_ in exchange.

_Schuppe_ and _Arcisseusky_ judging it no way convenient to fall upon the Enemy in _Porto Calvo_, Garrison’d _Paripuera_ with four hundred Men, under the Command of the Captains _Day_ and _Philip Andrews_, whom they furnish’d with Provisions for five Moneths, and left Order to defend the Countrey against the Incursions of the Enemy; which done, they went aboard with eleven hundred Men, and took in two Companies of _Brasilians_ at _Barra Grande_; with whom Landing behind the Isle _Alexio_, they came to _Serinhain_ before Day-light, and found all the Inhabitants fled into the Woods, fearing they would take Revenge on them for murdering of their Sick which they had left there. They were no sooner Encamp’d here, but they receiv’d Information from _John Talibon_, that the _Spanish_ Army intended to Besiege the Redoubt in _Barra Grande_, which therefore, as lying on an ill place, and not able to resist long, they flighted: After which being furnish’d with Provisions out of some Ketches Commanded by the Admiral _Lichthart_, they return’d, with Intentions to take up their Quarters in _Serinhain_ during the Winter Season, whilest the Enemy lay in _Cockau_, on one side of _Una_ and _Serinhain_, and kept private Correspondence with some of the _Portuguese_ that had taken the Oath of Allegiance to the _Hollanders_; but _Arcisseusky_ fell so fiercely upon them, that they all fled to _Porto Calvo_, and took three Monks Prisoners, who had been the chief Authors of this private Correspondence.

Soon after twenty eight Ships arriving at _Reciffa_, brought fresh Supplies of Men thither from the _Maes_ and _Zealand_, with Ammunition and Provisions, which was much wanted; also two Councellors, _Henrick Schild_ and _Paulus Serooskerken_.

This Fleet was scarce got in, when in the Evening news was brought, that eight hundred _Spaniards_ were broke in through _Poyuca_, and had taken _John Paez Baretto_’s Sugar-Mill, and destroy’d all they came at; but that the _Hollanders_ defending the Church with great Valor, obtain’d Quarter upon the surrendring of it.

[Sidenote: The _Spaniards_ under _Rebellino_ routed by _Stackhower_ and
_Litchthart_.]

This raging Army, led by Colonel _Rebellino_ and _Madurera_, march’d to _Laurenzo_ and _Massiapi_, whither there resorted daily more Men to them, which put the Council at _Reciffa_ to a great Dilemma, foreseeing, that if they should send for _Schuppe_ from _Serinhain_, the Enemy from _Una_ and _Porto Calvo_ would hem him in, neither had they sufficient Forces to withstand _Rebellino_; therefore it was judg’d convenient to send to _Arcisseusky_ to joyn with _Schuppe_’s Army, that they might both unawares fall upon the Enemy. In the interim a hundred and twenty _Tapuyans_, sent by _Janduy_, came to _Reciffa_, with information that _Janduy_ was coming himself, with several other neighboring Kings, to their Assistance. _Schuppe_, according to the Councels Order, march’d in the Night through the Sugar-Mills of _Rio Formoso_, rested the next day in the Valley _Orekinda_, and guarded all the Avenues: Whilest he went about to Storm the Village _Una_, _Mansveld_ was to Engage with a hundred _Spaniards_ on one side of _Iletta_’s Sugar-Mills, and _Arcisseusky_ was to fall upon the Village; whither marching early in the Morning, they saw onely a few of the Inhabitants, the Enemy being gone with his Forces over to _Manbucava_, nor could they pass any farther, finding the River too deep to wade through: But it had like to have gone worse with _Stackhower_ and _Litchthart_, who with _Maulpas_ making twelve hundred Men, were surpris’d by _Rebellino_, rushing forth of an Ambuscade near _Laurenzo_, where _Maulpas_ receiving a Wound dy’d of the same. This rough Entertainment at first much daunted the _Hollanders_; but regaining their Courage, they press’d upon the _Spanish_ Army in such a manner, that _Rebellino_ being wounded in his Shoulder, fled in great disorder through the Sugar-Fields to _Porto Calvo_, and of fifteen hundred Men sav’d not above four hundred, the rest being either kill’d, or scatter’d up and down the Countrey; twelve taken _Hollanders_ were also released by this means. The _Portuguese_ Design on _Paripuera_ also succeeded not much better.

[Sidenote: _Cameron_ put to flight by _Arcisseusky_.]

_Arcisseusky_ receiving Letters of Advice from the Councellor _Serooskerken_, that _Camaron_ lay Encamp’d with fifteen hundred Men about the Fortress _Capavaribi_ in _Goyana_, and that the Besieged could not hold out above four days longer, and that the Enemy had also taken two Barques full of Provisions and Ammunition, sent thither to relieve the Besieged, march’d with excessive toyl through uncouth and intricate Ways, which were rendred unpassable by the great Rains that had lately fall’n, and came about an hour after Sun-set to _Capavaribi_; from whence _Camaron_ being fled two hours before, had left Ammunition in three Carriages, secur’d from small Shot by thick Planks, which were drawn close under the Walls; also a _Burgundian_ Flag, two Field-pieces, and two Barques which he had taken with Provisions. The Enemy fled to _Tapiserica_, and from thence to _Terra Nova_. Whilest _Arcisseusky_ view’d the Works, and his Men stood in good order, great numbers of _Brasilians_ Sally’d out of the Redoubt, took the Provisions which _Camaron_ had left, spread themselves up in the Countrey, robb’d the _Portuguese_ Houses, and kill’d the People. As soon as _Arcisseusky_ had put all things in good order, he left the _Brasilians_ in _Goyana_ under the Command of the Councellor _Eyssens_, and pursu’d the fled Enemy, notwithstanding there fell great Showers of Rain, rested a little in the deserted Village _Tapiserica_, formerly inhabited by three thousand People, who possess’d several fair Structures, brave Walks, a large _Jesuits_ Cloyster, and a Church. The sweet Water and pleasant Pastures invited the _Hollanders_ to stay here a Night. The next Morning marching forward to _Terra Firma_, they saw a strong Fortification newly rais’d, but without People, and heard the Enemy’s Sentinels fire; whereupon _Arcisseusky_ appointing part of the Army to follow at a distance, march’d before with the rest, and being fir’d upon from an Ambuscade by _Camaron_’s Party, he order’d Captain _Talibon_ to press in upon the Ambuscade; but because it was perform’d in great disorder, he fell in himself on the right-hand of the Enemy, whilest _Lichthart_’s second Division stood still; which so affrighted the Enemy, that without making the least resistance he fled into the Woods, leaving many dead behind him. The next day Captain _Bohart_’s Party tracking the flying Enemy, fell in amongst them, and gave them a total Rout.

_Arcisseusky_ resolv’d to stay some time in _Terra Firma_ to wait for _Camaron_, but he not appearing, he laid waste the Countrey thereabouts.

[Sidenote: _Eyssens_: slain in a great Fight with _Rebellino_.]

_Rebellino_ and _Lewis de Sosa_ falling upon the Councellor _Eyssens_, Governor of _Parayba_, routed him, and set fire on the Sugar-Mills belonging to _Emanuel Pirez_, which forc’d them with their Swords in their Hands to break through Flame and Smoak upon the Enemy, who kill’d nine of them upon the Spot (amongst whom _Eyssens_ and his Secretary) the rest being either taken or fled.

[Sidenote: _Rebellino_ put to flight by _Arcisseusky_.]

Immediately after _Arcisseusky_ being inform’d by two Prisoners, that the _Spanish_ Forces Commanded by _Sosa_, _Dias_, and _Rebellino_, were all joyn’d together in the Wood _Antonio_, where _Camaron_ was also expected, he march’d away presently with half his Army, and as soon as the Captains _Metting_ and _Tourlon_, whom he commanded to follow him the next day, were come up to him, he fell upon the Enemy, who lay on a Hill, at whose Foot was a deep Valley, through which he climb’d to the top; which valorous Attempt so amaz’d the _Spaniards_, that without firing a Gun they fled into the Wood: After which _Metting_ and _Tourlon_ went back to _Laurenzo_; and _Arcisseusky_ destroy’d the _Rossas_, of which the _Farinha_ is made, that so by scarcity of Provisions he might prevent the Enemy from so often joyning together in Parties: In the mean time ten Ships from _Holland_ arriv’d with fresh Forces, Ammunition, Provisions, and two taken Prizes, at _Reciffa_.

[Sidenote: Several Prizes taken by _Houte-been_ after his Releasement.]

[Sidenote: An unlucky Accident.]

_Houte-been_ being releas’d from his Imprisonment in _Dunkirk_, set Sail from _Holland_ with three Ships, and took ten Iron Guns out of one Ship, and several Pipes of Wine out of another before _Matanca_; after that a _Tartan_ from _Havana_, two Frigats with Meal, one full of Wood with two Guns, two Barques carrying _Bananas_, a rich laden Pink, two Ships with Hides, and one with Sugar. Near the Island _Baru_ he heard several great Guns shoot off, whereupon making thither, he found the _Zealand_ Privateer _Martman_ Engag’d with a Ketch carrying ten Brass and six Iron Guns, which was run ashore; whereupon _Houte-been_ went to his assistance with a well Mann’d Boat; which the _Spaniards_ seeing, set fire on their Ketch and fled; but the Flame having onely hurt the Stern, fifty Men were order’d to get her afloat, who having begun to unlade the Tobacco, and to take out the Brass Guns, the Gun-Room took fire, and blew up both Men and Goods; of which twenty four being sadly hurt, dy’d, the rest escaping miraculously. Not long after _Houte-been_ took a Ship with Hides, fraighted the _Alcmaer_ Pink with his Prizes for the _Texel_, ran close by _Carthagena_, and kept a considerable time in sight of the Plate-Fleet, of which he carry’d one of the heaviest Sailers away with him; Being thus enrich’d, he return’d home.

[Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ sent by the _United States_ to govern
_Brasile_.]

Whilest Businesses were carry’d on after this manner both by Land and Sea in _Brasile_, the _West-India_ Company resolv’d to send some Person of Quality thither as President or supream Governor; and after no long Consultation who should be the Person, _Grave Maurice_ of _Nassaw_ was pitch’d upon, as being not only eminent for his Noble Alliance by Marriage to Emperors and Kings, but also for his excellent skill in Martial Affairs, the proofs whereof were known to all Men, as his marching to the _Paltz_ against _Spinola_, his being in the great Siege of _Grol_, _Hertogen-Bosch_, _Maestricht_, _Venlo_, _Rhynberk_, and _Schenkenschans_, at all which he receiv’d great Honor; all which consider’d, they made him chief Governor of _Brasile_, giving him a Commission Sign’d by the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_ and _West-India_ Company, to Govern with absolute Power, as well in Civil as Martial Affairs, to the best advantage of that _State_. At first they resolv’d to send a Fleet of thirty two Sail thither, but they afterwards reduc’d that number to twelve, which they Mann’d with two thousand seven hundred Men. _Grave Maurice_ set Sail on the twenty fifth of _October_ 1636. onely with four Sail, whereof the Admiral Ship call’d _The Zutfen_, carry’d but three hundred and fifty Men: about the _Sorlings_ they met with blustering Weather, insomuch that the Fleet was forc’d to put in at _Falmouth_, and after forty days stay there, weigh’d Anchor, and Steer’d for _Cape Verd_, and refresh’d at the Isle of _May_, famous for Salt-pans, and inhabited by a few _Negro_’s, and banish’d _Portugueses_.

[Sidenote: He is joyfully receiv’d at _Reciffa_.]

On the twenty third of _January_ 1637. _Grave Maurice_ arriving at _Reciffa_, was by every one receiv’d with great joy; as also _Adriaen vander Dussen_: and soon after _Matthias van Ceulen_, _Servaes Carpentier_, and _John Gysseling_, were chosen to be of his Privy Council; whose first Work was exactly to know their Forces, which were either Inhabitants that were to guard Towns and Fortresses, or Soldiers that march’d into the Field, two thousand six hundred whereof were appointed to defend _Reciffa_, the _Afogados_, the Promontory _St. Augustine_, _Tamarica_, and _Parayba_: the greatest Party, which lay in the Field, consisted of two thousand nine hundred Men, and another lesser Party of six hundred; which last flying Regiment was to be continually employ’d to make work for the Enemy. They also took an Account of what Provision and Ammunition they had in store, and found that there was want of both, especially of Match. Next he enquir’d after the Enemy’s Condition and Power.

[Sidenote: He marches against the _Portugueses_.]

[Sidenote: _Povacon_ taken by the _Hollanders_.]

From _Porto Calvo_ the _Portuguese_ made continual Sallies out into the Countrey, which they spoil’d and pillag’d, insomuch that the _Brasilians_ being oppress’d by them, deserted their Villages, and came for refuge to the _Hollanders_. The Garrison in _Serinhain_ was also much too weak to withstand the Incursions of the Enemy, the rather, because the _Portuguese_ came along private, and to the _Hollanders_ unknown Ways. All which _Grave Maurice_ considering, caus’d a Fast-day to be proclaim’d, on which they desir’d Gods assistance in the carrying on of their Designs. After which he march’d with the Army to _Serinhain_, from thence cross the River _Una_ to _Barra Grande_, and thence to meet with _Bagnola_, who though he was four thousand Men strong, besides _Negro_’s and _Brasilians_, had stopt up all the Ways with fell’d Trees, and fortifi’d others. On a Mountain, a League from _Porto Calvo_, _Bagnola_ kept his Station. At the foot of the Mountain flow’d a Brook, whose Shore was overgrown with Rice and young Trees, before which lay a high Bank; opposite to which _Grave Maurice_ Encamp’d himself towards the Evening, with intentions to fall upon him the next Morning, notwithstanding his Army consisted not of above fifteen hundred Men, of which there were six hundred _Brasilians_. _Grave Maurice_’s Guard marching before were follow’d by _Schuppe_ and _Arcisseusky_, and they by _Lichthart_, whose Men were all Seamen; all of them firing their Guns amaz’d the Enemy, whilest two Companies of _Brasilians_, and three of _Hollanders_ crept through the overgrown part on the right-hand of the Mountain, and as many more on the left, fell unawares upon him; but _Maurice_’s Guard Engaging with a thousand _Portugueses_, ran through the Water up against the Works with such undaunted Courage, that _Bagnola_ Retreated, leaving four hundred Men slain, besides three Brass Guns, and a great number of Prisoners; those which escap’d fled to _Porto Calvo_: But _Bagnola_ fearing to be Besieged there, left _Povacon_, which Castle, built on one side of _Porto Calvo_, lies twenty five Leagues from _Reciffa_, on a Plain, partly surrounded with Mountains and Pastures. The River _Porto Calvo_ runs so crooked, that it almost surrounds the Castle and Town. The Countrey hereabouts is full of Pools. Two Forts, each built on a Hill near _Povacon_, _Bagnola_ had caus’d to be undermin’d and fill’d up with Gun-powder; but they taking fire, were blown up before the _Hollanders_ came thither, who found them smoaking, and lying like a heap of Rubbish. _Maurice_ marching forward, Besieg’d _Povacon_; and Encamping himself below the Hill where one of the Forts had stood, he rais’d a Redoubt, and with a Trench approach’d the Moat. Whilest _Schuppe_ lay along the Town from the Church, _Lichthart_ made a Battery to the North, and somewhat farther _Arcisseusky_ another; then firing from four Batteries on _Povacon_, the Besieged answer’d them again from their Walls, and on the thirteenth day the Governor _Michael Giberton_ surrendred the Castle upon honorable Articles: for those in Garrison being _Italians_, _Portugueses_, and _Castilians_, to the number of five hundred, besides the Wounded and Sick, were to be Transported to _Tercera_. _Maurice_ entring the Castle, took two and twenty Brass, and five Iron Guns, four Mortar-pieces, a great many Bullets, Matches, Gun-powder, and other Ammunition, this being the King of _Spain_’s Magazine.

Near _Moribeca_, and before _St. Laurenzo_, the Enemy receiv’d a shrew’d Repulse by the flying Regiment, led by _Stackhower_; but Lieutenant _Helmich_ obtain’d special Honor herein.

_Grave Maurice_ after these Exploits took Shipping in _Barra Grande_, at a great Inlet near _Porto Calvo_, and Landed again at the Promontory _Sergoa_, from whence he pursu’d the Enemy to the River _Francisco_; the Inhabitants about which desir’d, and obtain’d free Conduct. _Bagnola_ lay on the other side of the River _Francisco_, in the Town _Openeda_; wherefore _Schuppe_, who was sent to the _Afogados_ to be near the Enemy, was afterwards commanded to go to _Openeda_ to secure _Grave Maurice_’s Passage over thither; but he coming thither after him, _Maurice_ cross’d to the Shore on which _Openeda_ lay with Boats, and got great Booty; and the more, because the Natives had not secur’d any thing, _Bagnola_ assuring them that the Castle _Povacon_ could endure at least a Siege of four Moneths.

_Openeda_ belong’d properly to the Lord _Melchior Albes_. Near the Town rose a stonie Rock out of the deep River _Francisco_, eighty Foot high; from which Rock there jutted out like Redoubts five Points, and it was call’d _Maurice Castle_. Along the Shore of the fore-mention’d Stream lay several very pleasant Isles. _Bagnola_ escaping privately from hence, was follow’d by his Men kneeling on floating pieces of Timber, which with Sticks they Row’d over to the Northern Shore, notwithstanding the Stream glides so swift, and is so broad, that a six-pound Bullet cannot be shot over the same; at the Mouth thereof _Maurice_ built another Castle. A League from his Camp seven hundred _Tapuyans_ (a great salvage and strong People, whose Language the _Portuguese_, _Brasilians_, and _Tapuyans_ that belong’d to _Jandui_, could not understand) had Ambuscado’d themselves, and with signs and motions of their Bodies they gave the _Hollanders_ to understand, that they would kill the _Portuguese_ if they offer’d to cross the Rivers.

_Maurice_ advising _Prince Frederick Henrick_ of his Transactions, desir’d that he would send over Planters thither, whether they were banish’d _Germans_ or Vagabonds, out of their Houses of Correction; for without them the fruitful Countrey of _Brasile_ would render but a slender Account to the _West-India_ Company, nor be able to prevent the Invasions of the _Spaniards_.

[Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ begins his Government with the making of good
Laws.]

The fruitfulness of this Tract of Land was not inferior to any Countrey in the whole World, Cattel grazing up and down in Herds of five, six, and seven thousand. Moreover, _Maurice_ advis’d them about the scarcity of Provisions, without which they were not able to maintain War. He also setled the Traders in a good Order, dividing all those free People which bore no Offices, into four Companies, under Captains, Ensigns, and Lieutenants. The Customs and Tributes were Farm’d, Marriages were order’d to be perform’d by the _Netherland_ Priests, the Jews had leave not to Watch on their Sabbath, all manner of Debosheries were strictly forbid from being acted on the Lords-Day, and Punishments ordain’d for Drunkards and other Deboshees; several Schools were also erected for Youth, and for the instruction of the _Brasilians_ in the _Christian_ Religion; and lastly, it was permitted to any that would, to build in the ruin’d City _Olinda_, or else to repair those Houses that were fall’n to ruine.

Some of the _Portugueses_ fill’d _Maurice_ his Ears with a Report of the Silver-Mines at _Couhaou_, _Copaou_, _Terra Nova_, and about _Cape St. Augustine_; but he not regarding them, plac’d Sheriffs over the Villages, and Overseers over the Alms-houses and Hospitals, issuing out Orders also for the delivering of the Provisions, which being very scarce, every Man had a certain Allowance, that so it might last the longer; but when in this Distribution the meaner sort began to be scanted, the Peoples Complaints were such, that an Insurrection was like to ensue, if not carefully and speedily prevented: whereupon the decay’d and deserted Sugar-Mills of the _Portugueses_ were put to Sale, and sold some for three, others for six and seven thousand Pound, insomuch that the _West-India_ Company got above 200000 _l._ for them all. Soon after they fortifi’d their Castles and other strong Holds, and broke down those that were judg’d useless. The _Brasilians_ obtain’d liberty also to inhabit their Villages and till their Land, that they might make Provision for themselves, and not oppress the Planters that liv’d near them. The _Portuguese_ that had submitted themselves to the Government of the _Hollanders_, had free leave granted them to exercise the _Roman-Catholick_ Religion, onely they were not to send for any Priests from _St. Salvador_, which if they did, they should be dealt with as Plotters of Murders and Treasons; they had liberty also to re-build their Houses in _Olinda_, paying Tribute with the _Hollanders_: Moreover, they were promis’d that they should live free from all Oppressions of the _Hollanders_. There was also order taken about paying the tenth part of the Sugar and _Farinha_. The Income also of Fishing and Fowling, amounted to a considerable sum of Money. And to prevent deceit in Trade, Measures and Weights were made according to those of _Amsterdam_. For the Converting of _Pagans_, _Jews_, and _Roman_ Catholicks, able Teachers were sent into the Countrey to promulgate the Gospel.

About this time there went a Report, as if the _West-India_ Company were inclin’d to remove their Seat from _Reciffa_ to the Island _Tamarica_; but _Maurice_ advising them that it would not be so convenient for them, they chang’d their Resolution.

[Sidenote: _Isleos_ taken by _Lichthart_.]

Whilest _Lichthart_ Cruis’d a considerable time before the Haven _Todos los Sanctos_, he Crain’d his Ship in the Bay of _Camaniu_, took the Town _Isleos_, with a hundred and fifty Men. In the Town, which is built on a Promontory, he took but little Booty, and sav’d the Houses, which were built most of Stone, as also the four Churches and _Jesuits_ Cloyster, and return’d to _Reciffa_.

[Sidenote: Colonel _Latan_ slain.]

About this time the invincible Castle _Mina_, afterwards call’d _St. Joris_, was taken by the _Hollanders_, upon the Advice of _Nicholas van Yperen_, Commander of _Guinee_, who sent word to _Grave Maurice_, that the said Castle might easily be conquer’d, if any Forces could be sent him from _Reciffa_: Whereupon _Maurice_ immediately sent _John Coin_ thither with nine Ships, which set Sail on the twenty fifth of _June_, _Anno 1637._ who in the Road _Commendo_ joining with _Yperen_, soon after he was set down before it, and was preparing to Storm, had it surrendred to him upon Terms no less advantageous to the _Hollanders_, than dishonorable to the Besieged, yet not without the loss of many Men; for in their March thither they were fiercely set upon by the _Negro_’s inhabiting the Village near the Castle; in which Conflict Colonel _Latan_ amongst others was slain. The Fort might very well have endur’d a longer Siege, it being surrounded with double Moats, each twenty five Foot deep, and high Bulwarks, which could not be undermin’d because of the Rocky Ground on which they were built; and to make it yet more stronger, _Coin_ after he had taken it rais’d a Fort on the Hill, from whence he had fir’d on the Castle, in which he found thirty Brass Demi-Culverins; and leaving _Walraeven Malburg_ as Governor, he return’d to _Reciffa_.

During these Proceedings of the _Dutch_ in _Guinee_, the Duke of _Bagnola_ ransack’d the Countrey about _Seregippa del Rey_; _Maurice_ not able to go himself, having had a Feaver three Moneths, sent _Schuppe_ and _Gyseling_ with two thousand three hundred Soldiers, four hundred _Brasilians_, and two hundred and fifty Seamen, whilest _Lichthart_ Steer’d to _Todos los Sanctos_, that so he might draw the Enemy down to the Sea-Coast. _Bagnola_ flying to _Terra Gracia d’ Avila_, _Schuppe_ demolish’d the Town _Seregippa_, the Sugar-Mills, and all manner of Fruit-Trees, and march’d with incredible speed to the Stream _Francisco_; where Encamping on the Southern Shore, he drove three thousand Head of Cattel before him, that so he might starve the Enemy.

[Sidenote: The _Brasilians_ offer their assistance to the _Dutch_ for
the taking the Fort _Siara_.]

In the interim the _Brasilians_ in _Siara_ desir’d Aid against the _Portuguese_, offering, That if the _Hollanders_ could conquer the Fort there, they would soon destroy all the _Portuguese_; that the Charges of the Siege might easily be made good, the Countrey producing abundance of Amber-greece, Crystal, Cotton, Pearls, Salt, and other Merchandise. In confirmation of this their Resolution, the _Brasilians_ left two eminent Persons Children of _Siara_ in _Reciffa_: Whereupon _George Garstman_ being sent thither, was no sooner Landed, but he made his Arrival known to the _Brasilian_ Governor _Algodoi_; who came to meet him with two hundred Men, bearing white Flags in token of Peace: Thus assisted, he set upon _Siara_, which is a square Fort, built at the foot of a Hill, hath within its Walls six Houses, two Redoubts full of Port-holes, one on the North, and the other on the South, jutting half way out from the Wall; as also two Gates, secur’d with large Portcullises: without the Fort appears the Governor’s House, about which were several Huts for _Portugueses_.

This Lordship, already spoken of, is reckon’d amongst the Northern parts of _Brasile_, and hath onely twelve Leagues in circumference. The Haven before the Castle, which the River _Hacu_ makes, is of little consequence: The Ground in some places rises with high Mountains, in others, especially on one side, it is overgrown with Wood: hath also several brave Pastures, especially along the River.

[Sidenote: The Fort taken by _Garstman_.]

_Garstman_ approaching the Castle _Siara_, found little resistance, so that he took it with small expence of Blood, most of the _Portuguese_ being taken Prisoners, a few onely escaping by flight.

After this _Grave Maurice_ took great care of the Civil Affairs, building a Guild-Hall at his own Cost and Charge; sent all manner of Minerals, digg’d out of the _Brasilian_ Mines, to the _Netherlands_; laid great Penalties on those that stole the Custom of Goods, and punish’d with Death Murders, Robberies, and such like Capital Offences, besides several wholsom Laws relating both to the Civil and Ecclesiastical Government; and as soon as he was recover’d from his tedious Sickness, he march’d up into the Countrey to the Rivers _Grande_ and _Parayba_, to take care to furnish the Forts with Provision and Ammunition. Near the Castle _Ceulen_ he was receiv’d by the _Tapuyan_ Agents, and Presented by them with Bowes, Arrows, and brave Ostrich Feathers, us’d by them when they go to the Wars: in return for which they receiv’d Linnen Shirts, Knives, Shells, Bugles, Fishhooks, and Nails. _Maurice_ caus’d a deeper and wider Moat to be digg’d about the decay’d Castle _Cabo Dello_, rais’d the Works, and call’d it by the Name of his Sister _Margareta_; he also pull’d down the Fort _Antonio_, keeping onely a Tower to defend the High-way. _Restringa_ was likewise strengthned with Pallisado’s, and the Cloyster near the Town _Parayba_ fortifi’d against an Assault, and _Elias Harkmans_ made Governor of the same.

Whilest these things were transacted on the Land, Captain _Schuppe_ at Sea Engaging alone between _Todos los Sanctos_ and _Terre Garcie d’ Avila_ with three _Spanish_ Ships, drove one of them aground, and brought another away with him to _Reciffa_. The Letters found in the taken Vessel made mention, that in the River of _Lisbon_ lay ten Galleys, and twenty more before _Cales_, to which were to joyn thirty Pinks; which Fleet some suppos’d was coming for _Brasile_; others, that it was onely a Plot of the King of _Spain_ to get Money from his Subjects, according to the Custom of several other Princes.

Hereupon _Maurice_ wrote to the _West-India_ Company, that they would Rig out a Fleet with all possible speed, which might fall upon the fore-mention’d _Spanish_ Fleet, and fetch those Sugars which lay ready in _Brasile_ to be Laden.

About the same time a Party of the _Portugueses_ crossing the River _Francisco_, came to the Stream _Miguel_, whither _Picard_ marching, put them all to flight.

[Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ sets forth with a Fleet for the re-taking of
_St. Salvador_.]

[Sidenote: _Grave Maurice_ is forc’d to leave the Siege of _St.
Salvador_.]

_Grave Maurice_ having a Design on _St. Salvador_, the _Portuguese_ Metropolis in _Brasile_, formerly taken by _Peter Hein_ and _Jacob Willekens_, and not long after lost by the faint-heartedness of _William Schouten_ and _Hans Kyf_, though in all likelihood not strong enough to undertake so weighty a Design, yet considering if he should stay longer, the Season would not permit him, therefore he went aboard, hoping that he should receive some Aid from the _Netherlands_; his Army consisted of three thousand four hundred _Netherlanders_, and a thousand _Brasilians_. He had the greater hopes of Victory, because he receiv’d information from _St. Salvador_, that the Soldiers in Garrison there mutiny’d for want of Pay, and that the Governor and Duke of _Bagnola_ were at difference concerning the management of the War. But before he set Sail he had secur’d all Places against any Invasion, and got ready twenty two Sail, furnish’d with Ammunition and Provision, with which on the eighteenth of _August_ Anno 1638. he weigh’d Anchor, and met with six Ships at Sea, which he took, and arriv’d on the sixth day following before the Mouth of the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, which he could not enter by reason of contrary Winds, but Cruis’d up and down before the River _Vermelho_ and the Isle _Tapoam_; whereupon the Governor of _St. Salvador_ and _Bagnola_ drew the _Portuguese_ Forces down thither to prevent his Landing: About Noon the Wind coming about fair for the _Hollanders_, brought _Maurice_ within Shot of the Ships, Forts, Walls and Batteries of the City _St. Salvador_, so that he thundred with his Cannon against them, and Landed on a Promontory near the Sconce _Bartholomew_, without the least resistance, in a convenient place about a League and a half from the City; where Encamping himself, he was inform’d by the Prisoners which he had taken, that about half a League farther was a narrow Bank, border’d with Morasses, so that none could pass along the same but at Low-water, and then onely at a certain time. _Tourlon_ being sent before with three hundred Musquetteers to discover the Place, found the Way not onely as the Prisoners had inform’d, but also fortifi’d by the Enemy; against whom _Maurice_ drew out his Men, ordering Captain _John vander Mast_ in the mean time to run with ten Sail directly upon the City, and to drop his Anchors just without shot of it. Having beaten the Enemy from his Works, he broke through all the Paths, Hedges and Banks, till at last he came and Intrench’d himself near the Out-works of the City, by which his Army was secur’d from any Assaults from the Sea-side. Colonel _Brand_ also with little trouble took the Fort _Philippo_, built on the Shore, and fortifi’d with five Guns. The next day _Maurice_ Storming the Castle _Philippo_, soon became Master of it, notwithstanding it was well Garrison’d, and had thirteen Brass Demi-Culverins. The taking of this Castle afforded the Besiegers a free Passage to their Fleet. They also rais’d two Batteries, from one of which they shot night and day with seven great Guns, and from the other with the like number of Field-pieces, on the Castle _Rosario_, which the _Portuguese_ forsook; but going about to take a Horn-work on the top of the _Carmelites_ Cloyster, he lost many Men in the Attempt, and amongst the rest the Captains _Howin_, _Echbrecht_, _Boward_, _Hollinger_, and the Engineer _Berchem_; and in the end, after many bold and resolute Attaques, what with the strength of the Place, both for number of Defendants, and well fortifi’dness thereof, and what with the want of his expected Supplies, and lastly the sickliness of his Army, by reason of the extraordinary Rains that fell, to the loss of many Officers of note as well as common Soldiers, besides what were slain by the Enemy, he made as honorable a Retreat as he could, so that this Expedition prov’d altogether unsuccessful.

Mean while the Provincial _States_ of _Holland_ and _Zealand_ differ’d about allowing of a free Trade to _Brasile_, and sending of Colonies thither: Whereupon _Grave Maurice_ writing to them his Opinion, demonstrated with good Reasons, that a free Trade, and fresh Colonies, would be much to the Companies advantage; which was approv’d of by the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_ and _West-India_ Company, who onely engross’d the Trade of _Negro_’s and _Brasile_ Wood; and on the Imported and Exported Goods they put a certain Custom.

[Sidenote: _Houte-been_ Engages the _Spanish_ Fleet.]

The _West-India_ Company considering what Treasure _Peter Hein_ had brought from _Matanca_ to _Holland_, they resolv’d to venture another Expedition thither; and to that purpose set out fourteen Sail under the Command of _Cornelis Houte-been_, who weigh’d Anchor out of the _Texel_ on the fourteenth of _August_ Anno 1638. and arriv’d safe at _Reciffa_; where _Houte-been_ having spent some days in Consulting with _Grave Maurice_, went aboard again, and at his entring into the Ship, bruis’d his Leg between the Boat and the sides thereof, which some superstitious Persons look’d upon as very ominous; but this Wound was not so great as to keep him back from whatsoever Service came in his way: for discovering the _Spanish_ Fleet from _Terra Firma_ near _Cuba_, before the Rocky Isle _Organes_, which consisted of eight great Gallions, and six lesser Ships, whose Lading was valu’d at two hundred Tun of Gold, and Commanded by _Carel Dievaro_, he clapt the Admiral aboard, threw in his Grapling-Irons, and made him self fast, with a Resolution either to take him or die, whilest the _Dutch_ Vice-Admiral _Abraham Michaelzoon Roosendael_ boarded the _Spanish_ Vice-Admiral, and the Rere-Admiral _John vander Mast_ the Enemy’s Rere-Admiral; and doubtless, had not the Vice-Admiral and Rere-Admiral been slain, together with _Verdoost_, Captain of the _Orange-Tree_, and other eminent Officers, and those that surviv’d fail’d in their Duty to him for want of Courage, he had given them a signal Overthrow; but whilest with much ado he had prevail’d with his Captains to renew the Combat (having been forc’d by the coming on of the _Spanish_ Vice and Rere-Admirals to quit his hold) and was preparing for a second Onset, the Sea began to be rough, and the Enemy was gotten to the Windward. Some few days after being inform’d, that the _Spanish_ Fleet lay before the Flats of _Cuba_ and the Rocky _Organes_, Steer’d thither, resolving to venture once more; but when he came there, the _Spaniards_ were gone; whereupon he sent some of his Ships to _Brasile_, others to Cruise before _Cuba_, whilest he himself went for the _Netherlands_.

Whilest this Expedition fell out so unfortunately, _Cameron_, General of the _Brasilians_, sent three Agents to _Grave Maurice_, desiring to enter into League with the _West-India_ Company, upon some Differences that were risen between him and the Duke of _Bagnola_. _Grave Maurice_ seeming much inclin’d to his Offer, treated the Agents very nobly; who not long after, oblig’d by his Civility, inform’d him, that _Cameron_, an inconstant Man, had made Peace again with _Bagnola_. But that which chiefly obstructed _Grave Maurice_’s Designs, was the want of Provisions, Ammunition and Men, notwithstanding his continual Complaints to the Company.

About the beginning of the Year 1639. the _Spanish_ Fleet, consisting of twenty eight Sail, most of them Gallions, appear’d in sight of _Reciffa_, but Steer’d Southwardly; _Grave Maurice_ hereupon sent out the best Sailers to follow them, and see whither they were bound, or if they intended to Land, whilest himself march’d along to _Porto Calvo_; but inform’d that they were gone into the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_, he return’d to _Reciffa_, after he had stor’d the Forts _Porto Calvo_, _Una_, _Serinhain_, and that at the Promontory _St. Augustine_, with all Necessaries.

[Sidenote: _Arcisseusky_ Impeaches _Grave Maurice_ and his Council.]

[Sidenote: Is sent back into _Holland_.]

About the same time _Arcisseusky_ arriving from _Holland_ with a Commission to be General over the Forces there, imparted to some Friends the Copy of a Letter that he intended to send to the _Amsterdam_ Burgomaster _Albert Coenraedszoon vander Burgh_, containing many Accusations against _Grave Maurice_ and his Council; of which he being inform’d, call’d a general Assembly, to whom he makes a large Speech, wherein he declar’d how faithful a Servant he had been to the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_ for the space of twenty years, complain’d of the malice of _Arcisseusky_ in wrongfully aspersing him, both in the aforesaid Letter and otherwise, answer’d particularly to every thing which was laid to his Charge, (as he did afterwards in a Letter also from himself to _Vander Burgh_) and lastly made it his peremptory Request, that he might return home, and leave _Arcisseusky_ in Power, or that _Arcisseusky_ might be sent home, and he remain undisturb’d in his Government; and so withdrew, leaving them to their own Consultations. It exceedingly perplex’d them, and took up a long Debate what Judgment to give in this Matter, which before they concluded on, they propos’d several Expedients of Reconciliation between them; but seeing it was all in vain, they unanimously judg’d it convenient, that _Arcisseusky_ should return; who not long after accordingly weigh’d Anchor from _Parayba_ for _Holland_.

[Sidenote: Several Judgments concerning him.]

_Arcisseusky_ arriving in _Holland_, appear’d unexpectedly before the _States_ of the _United Netherlands_ and _West-India_ Company, where several Judgments were pass’d upon him; some said he deserv’d severe punishment, for his misbehavior to _Grave Maurice_; others seem’d to have compassion of him, because he had done so many noble Exploits; most laid the blame on the Company, who rashly sent him with a Commission as Chief over the _Militia_, not without impairing _Grave Maurice_’s Power; but these Discourses fell amongst those who were not call’d to give their Opinion of this Case.

[Sidenote: _Coin_ sent Field-Marshal in his stead.]

_John Coin_ was chosen Field-Marshal in _Arcisseusky_’s stead, whilest the Councellors _Matthias Ceulen_, _Adrian vander Dussen_, _John Guiseling_, and _Servaes Carpentier_, were ready to come for _Holland_, and on the twenty ninth of _October_ 1639. they set Sail from _Parayba_, _Vander Dussen_ bringing with him an exact Relation of the Condition of _Brasile_, so far as concerns the _West-India_ Company, which being material, we shall reserve it for a more fit place.

It being fear’d that the _Spanish_ Fleet in the Harbor of _Todos los Sanctos_ might undertake some Design or other against the _Hollanders_, _Grave Maurice_ kept a watchful Eye upon them, repair’d all decay’d Forts, rais’d new Forces, sent out some Vessels to watch the Fleet, and prohibited the Transporting of Provisions, animated the _Brasilian_ Commanders to fight against the _Portuguese_, and forc’d the Owners of Sugar-Mills to Plant store of _Mandihoka_, that so his Provisions might last the longer.

A Party of the Enemy, consisting of about twelve hundred Men, having pass’d the River _Francisco_, was soon after oppos’d by Colonel _Donker_.

[Sidenote: A _Spanish_ Fleet lies before _St. Salvador_.]

The _Spanish_ Fleet having lay’n a whole Year before _St. Salvador_ (because they had lost near three thousand Men, who on the Coast of _Africa_ dy’d of several Distempers, and therefore waited for a fresh Supply) set Sail on the ninteenth of _November Anno 1639._ with eighty seven Sail, carrying sixteen thousand Men, of which thirty seven were great Gallions. _Ferdinand Mascarenhas_, Duke of _Torre_, being chief Admiral, carry’d the Flag and sixty Brass Guns in the Ship _Domingo_; the _Portuguese_ Admiral, _Roderigo Lobo_, carry’d fifty two Guns in the Gallion _Bernardo_; of all which, with the number of the Enemy’s Forces, _Grave Maurice_ was inform’d by a Letter taken out of a Pink laden with Sugar; and also that the _Spaniards_ were in great hopes of the _Portuguese_ deserting the _West-India_ Company, with whom they were forc’d to joyn; that this great Fleet was order’d to Cruise two years before the Coast of _Brasile_, and to Land divers Men under the Command of _Bagnola_, _Francisco de Moro_, _Antonio Roderigo_, _Nunno de Mello_, _Jacob Pirezio_, _Francisco Pezam_, and _Lopes Barbalio_; all which made _Maurice_ write continually for Aid, “Which the _West-India_ Company must send speedily, unless they were resolv’d to lose what they had gotten in _Brasile_, as also the People, who had hitherto defended the same with the loss of their Lives and Fortunes.”

A _Negro_ that serv’d a _Spanish_ Captain, call’d _Henrick Dias_, being taken, inform’d the _Hollanders_, That the _Spanish_ Fleet was much weakned by a poysonous Air on the Coast of _Africa_; and that they had left a considerable number of their Men in the Hospital at _St. Salvador_; that the Admiral was resolv’d with divided Forces to burn all Places he came at, and to receive the _Negro_’s, _Mamolucks_, _Mulatto_’s, and _Brasilians_, under his Jurisdiction. But _Grave Maurice_ gave little credit to this Relation, because the _Spaniard_ doubted not in the least, but that he should take _Brasile_ from the _Netherlanders_ with his fore-mention’d Forces, why then should he ruine what he hop’d to possess? None knew whither the _Spanish_ Fleet intended to go; for setting Sail under the Command of _Antonio Oquendo_, under pretence of falling upon the _Netherlands_, they Steer’d their Course to _Brasile_, and at last from the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_ to _Goyana_; but four days before they weigh’d Anchor, _William Corneliszoon Loos_, who had some time been Cruising before the said Inlet, came back to _Reciffa_ with thirteen Sail of Ships, which wanted all manner of Necessaries.

[Sidenote: _Corneliszoon Loos_ with his small Power sets out to Engage
the great _Spanish_ Fleet.]

[Sidenote: Admiral _Loos_ slain.]

[Sidenote: _Huigens_ chaseth the _Spanish_ Fleet.]

[Sidenote: _Alderick_’s valiant Exploit.]

The _West-India_ Company had now been in a mean Condition, had there not happily arriv’d first eight, next two, and at last nine Ships from the _Texel_, the _Maes_, and _Zealand_, with Provisions, and a Supply of Men; which _Maurice_ had no sooner taken out, and unladen the Ships, but he fitted them for an Engagement, and made up the number of forty one Sail, who yet were not to be compar’d to the _Spaniards_, whose smallest Vessels carry’d more Men and Guns than the biggest of the _Hollanders_, which in all had but two thousand one hundred and ninety six Men, and one Ship with another under twenty Iron Guns: With this small Power the Admiral _William Corneliszoon Loos_ went to meet the Enemy, and before the River _Michael_ took four _Spanish_ Ships, which carry’d Ammunition and Provisions for the Army, which _Lopes Barbalio_ commanded ashore. On the twelfth of _January, Anno 1640._ he descry’d the _Spanish_ Fleet between _Itamaraca_ and _Goyana_; not far from which _Mascarenhas_ thought to Land seven thousand Men at _Paomorello_; and they were already gotten into little Vessels when the _Hollanders_ Fleet made towards them, and about three a Clock in the Afternoon began a bloody Engagement for four hours, in which _Loos_ Engaging with the _Spanish_ Admiral and four Gallions, was kill’d in the middle of the Fight, which ended in the Evening. _Jacob Huigens_ carrying the Flag the next day in sight of the Promontory _Blanco_, chearing up his Men, went to renew the Fight with _Mascarenhas_, and with a few small Ships Engag’d several great ones, of which they had an advantage onely in their nimble turning and winding. In this Engagement _Huigens_ lost the Ship call’d _The Sun_, which sunk with Colonel _Mortimer_ and forty four Men, thirty four being sav’d in the Boat. The _Hollanders_ Loss was the less, because the _Spanish_ great Gallions fir’d over _Huigens_’s Ships, which fir’d in the midst of the _Spaniards_ Vessels. _Huigens_ not being tir’d with two days Engagements, fell upon them a third time before _Parayba_, and firing at the _Spanish_ and _Portuguese_ Admirals, pursu’d their Fleet to the Northermost Coast of _Brasile_, where by a strong Current they were driven Westerly; and the _Swan_, Commanded by _Jacob Alderick_, losing her Main-mast, was cut off from the Fleet by twelve Gallions; and three hundred _Spaniards_ were already Masters of the Deck, when _Alderick_ breaking from the Enemy, drove towards the Shore, and either kill’d the _Spaniards_ that were in his Ship, or forc’d them to leap overboard, whilest _Antonio Cunha de Andrada_, not knowing that _Alderick_ was aground, making up to him, ran also aground, which occasion’d a new Fight, and at last _Andrada_ was made to surrender his Gallion, and with it three thousand Pound of coin’d and uncoin’d Silver, besides other rich Goods, and two hundred and thirty Men, who were all sent Prisoners to _Reciffa_.

[Sidenote: The _Spanish_ Fleet again put to flight by _Huigens_.]

_January_ the seventeenth _Huigens_ ventur’d a fourth Engagement between _Rio Grande_ and _Conyaou_, where approaching the _Spanish_ Fleet, a sudden Calm prevented him from coming within shot of them, till against the Evening the Wind began to rise, but the Night approaching, it was not judg’d worth while to Engage for so few hours, therefore they referr’d the bloody work till the next day; when about Daybreak _Huigens_ ran through the midst of the Enemy’s Fleet, and fir’d so fiercely on _Mascarenhas_, that he Tacking about, stood away right before the Wind, and not being able to get beyond the Shelves _Baxios de Rochas_, nor to get Water on the Coast, because the _Hollanders_ Ketches guarded the same, he Sail’d into the Offin towards the _Line_ with a South-East Wind. After which _Huigens_ lay eight days before _Rio Grande_ to refresh and rest himself, and on the first of _February_ he arriv’d at _Reciffa_, where _Maurice_ caus’d a Thanksgiving Day to be kept for this wonderful Victory, whilest the Enemy was exceedingly abash’d.

Several Disadvantages occurr’d towards the overthrow of the _Spanish_ Fleet; for first it was much weakned by the Disease which rag’d in the same on the Coast of _Africa_, insomuch that it lay still a whole year in _Todos los Sanctos_ to gather fresh Forces, whilest _Maurice_ put himself in a posture of Defence: Secondly, they lay becalm’d, and met with contrary Winds for several Moneths, whenas the Voyage between _St. Salvador_ and _Pernambuco_ is commonly not above twelve days; which tedious Passage occasion’d also a Distemper and faint-heartedness amongst the _Spaniards_, whilest divers Ships arriv’d at _Reciffa_ from the _Netherlands_, without which it had been impossible to have Engag’d with the Enemy, in regard till then all manner of Ammunition and Provisions were wanting. _Huigens_ also had continually the advantage or benefit of the Wind, and lost in the Engagement but two Ships, a hundred and twenty four Men, besides twelve wounded: Moreover, but twelve Ships onely of the _Dutch_ Engag’d with this great _Spanish_ Fleet, the rest never coming within shot; wherefore the two Commanders, _John Coopman Ryk_, and _Peter Jacob_, were condemn’d to be Beheaded; _Cornelis Johnszoon_ and _Peter Dirkszoon_ had their Swords broke over their Heads by the common Hangman; _Cornelis Lucifer_, _Dirk Eger_, and _Jacob Clavor_, were banish’d; and others came off by paying great Fines: but the _Spanish_ Fleet lost in the four Engagements twenty Ships, and some thousands of Men, the _Joseph_ alone having four hundred slain in her. Lastly, anchoring near the Island _Margareta_, the _Portuguese_ Admiral _Cosmo de Couto_, and the Captain-General _Francisco Pimentello_, falling out, the _Spaniards_ Steer’d to _Tercera_, and from thence to _Cales_, where there Landed but few Men, most of them dying of Hunger and Thirst in their Return home: Four Gallions, with two Pinks, got into the _Spanish_ Harbors, the rest being either stranded before _New Spain_, sunk, or return’d to the Inlet _Todos los Sanctos_.

[Sidenote: _Cameron_’s Forces and _Barbalio_’s put to flight by _Coin_.]

[Sidenote: _Portugueses_ Plot against the _Netherlanders_ discover’d.]