Chapter XI (4)

It appears, that after the arrival of _Mangkúrat Mas_ at Ceylon he found means to dispatch letters of complaint to the prince of Orange and the Court of Directors in Holland. Two Mahomedan priests were charged with the mission, but the letters being intercepted, the messengers were subjected to severe punishment.

With _Mangkúrat Mas_ was lost the celebrated _makóta_, or crown of _Majapáhit_. The regalia of the sovereigns of Java, with the exception of this important article, were duly delivered over, by order of the Dutch, to the acknowledged sovereign _Pakabúana_, but nothing more was ever heard of the crown, and since that time, the princes have worn a _cap_, as described in another place. As the Dutch were now become supreme on Java, a crown was perhaps but an empty pageant. It cannot, however, escape notice, that this proud ornament of state should first have been deprived of its brightest jewel, and afterwards, as there is too much room to suspect, filched by the Dutch, who probably stripped it of its remaining jewels, and melted down the gold for its value!

The removal of _Mangkúrat Mas_ did not, however, extinguish the flame of internal discord which still blazed forth in the eastern provinces of Java, and which increased till the year 1712-13. The _Susúnan_ sent several embassies to Batavia, requesting assistance against the chiefs of _Balambángan_ and of the island of _Madúra_, as well as against the sons of _Surapáti_, who had their hiding places in the mountains. On this occasion the Dutch sanctioned the nomination of the _Pangéran Mángku Nagára_ as the hereditary prince, and promised the required succours against the rebels, but took care to point out the value which they put upon their assistance: a piece of policy which, on no occasion, they seem to have forgotten. They adverted to the immense sums they had at different times advanced, and the extent of the obligations which the _Susúnan_ lay under to them, admonishing him to act with greater circumspection in future, and to adopt such measures as might put a stop to the civil wars and commotions which desolated the country.

It was not long, however, before various circumstances concurred to render the rebels still more formidable. The chiefs of _Surabáya_, _Probolíng'o_, and _Kédíri_, as well as those of _Madúra_ and _Balambáng'an_, united at the instigation of the chief of _Wináng'un_ (whose life had been unjustly attacked,) in a league to shake off the yoke of the _Susúnan_, and at the same time to rid themselves of the Dutch, whose aim they conceived to have been eventually to depose the _Susúnan_, and to render themselves sovereigns of the whole island.

A circumstance is related by the native writers, which is said to have contributed essentially to the distractions which at that time existed in the country.

"The Dutch requested that the _Susúnan_ would immediately put the _Adipáti Jaíng Rána_ of _Surabáya_ to death, alleging that he was attached to the cause of the rebels, and that if an example were made of this chief, it would strike fear into the others. On this the _Susúnan_ became excessively grieved at heart, for he was sincerely attached to the _Adipáti_; and now that the _Panambáhan_ of _Madúra_, who had been as his right hand, was dead, if he were to lose the _Adipáti_ of _Surabáya_ also, who had been as his left hand, he would in truth find that he had lost both hands. He wished, therefore, to refuse compliance with this request; but at the same time feared, that if he disappointed the Dutch, there would be an end of his friendship with them. On these two accounts he gave the subject his deepest consideration. At length he wrote a letter to the _Adipáti_, informing him of the request made by the Dutch; and to the Dutch at Batavia he wrote in reply, that he wished to reflect upon the affair, until the time appointed for the chief to pay his usual visit to the capital should arrive.

"As soon as the _Adipáti_ of _Surabáya_ received these tidings he assembled his brothers and his _Páteh_, named _Wíra Tantáha_, and showed them the letter. His brothers immediately advised that they should unite and oppose any one, whoever it might be, who should attempt the life of the _Adipáti_; for, said they, 'Is it not better to die nobly 'in war, and to let one's enemies know how dearly the death of our brother is to be purchased, than to be quietly killed in one's bed? will only know of the death and not of its value.' But the _Páteh_ replied to them, 'What you say is correct, and in the service of the state we are bound to act as you advise; but this is a request made by the general, that the _Adipáti_ should be put to death. Is it not better that he should deliver himself up? for if he does not there will be a rupture between the general and the _Susúnan_, and then (which God forbid) the land of _Jáwa_ will be destroyed, and universal misery will follow. You have now, for a long time, enjoyed happiness and a good name, and now that you have grown old in honour, it would not be fitting in you to do any thing that could bring sorrow or ruin on your sovereign, or that would disgrace your followers or descendants, which would be the case if you now got a bad name.' The _Adipáti_ was well pleased with the advice of his _Páteh_, and after considering for a short time, then addressed him, 'What you say is true, oh _Páteh_! I am old, and have not long to live. It is indeed right that I should deliver up my life for the benefit of my sovereign and the character of my family.'"

This resolution being taken, the _Adipáti_ shortly after set out for _Kértasúra_, accompanied by his brother and about two thousand followers. When he arrived, the _Susúnan_ inquired how he wished to act; to which he replied, that he preferred to die rather than to be the cause of misfortune to his sovereign or to the people of Java; that he was now old; that if his life was spared on this occasion he could not expect to live many years, and that he was already satisfied with this world. The _Susúnan_ then said, if such was his determination and wish, he must of course follow it, but urged him to speak his mind freely, adding that he would think of it, and do what would turn out best for him: but the _Adipáti_ replied, that he had no other wish than what he had already expressed; that it was much better that he should die, than become the cause of misfortune to others. All he requested was, that after his death the _Susúnan_ would not be forgetful of his family and children, and that until his son was of a proper age, his brother, _Ráden Jáya Puspíta_, might succeed him in his public administration. The _Susúnan_ then said, "It is well. If the Dutch again make the demand you must prepare for your fate; and I promise you that, in that case, your request shall be complied with." At the expiration of about a month, during which period the _Adipáti_ clothed himself in white and gave himself up entirely to his devotions, another letter arrived from the Governor General, making a peremptory demand that the _Adipáti_ should be immediately executed. The _Susúnan_ then sent for the _Adipáti_, and directed that he should be brought into the _dálam_. Dressed in white, he immediately attended the summons. When he reached the entrance _sri meng'ánti_, he quitted his followers, who were not allowed to come further but remained without; and the people who guarded the entrance of the _kráton_, having received the orders of the _Susúnan_ to that effect, seized him, and plunging their weapons into his body, immediately dispatched him. They then carried out the corpse and gave it to his followers, charging them to give it proper burial. They were all struck with deep grief at the sight, for the _Adipáti_ was much beloved. They interred the body at _Lawéan_, but immediately afterwards the brother, with about two thousand followers, assembled in the _alun alun_, determined upon vengeance, and the disturbance was not quelled until the _Susunán_ entered into an explanation. He then appointed _Jáya Puspíta_ to succeed provisionally to the administration of his deceased brother, and otherwise conciliated the parties, who were at last induced quietly to return to _Surabáya_; not, however, without a determination of one day being revenged on the authors of this calamity. On receiving the appointment from the _Susúnan_, while _Jáyá Puspíta_ returned their grateful acknowledgments for this mark of kindness, they as openly avowed that they would never rest in peace, until they had given a due return to whoever was the cause of their brother's death.

"In pursuance of this determination, _Jáya Puspíta_ took an early occasion to league with other discontented chiefs, and soon became the most formidable enemy to the tranquillity of the country.

"The forces of the _Susúnan_ were completely defeated in a pitched battle, and the rebels made themselves masters of several important provinces to the eastward of _Pasúruan_, which place they also besieged until the arrival of the Dutch auxiliaries. They were then driven beyond _Panarúkan_; but being reinforced from _Báli_, soon forced the combined Dutch and Javan troops to retreat again to _Pasúruan_."

The effect of this civil war was now severely felt at Batavia. The country was laid waste, cultivation was neglected, and a great scarcity of rice was felt at Batavia. This induced the Dutch to march a more considerable force in 1717, and again to take an active part in re-establishing the tranquillity of the country.

On the arrival of this force at _Madúra_, it was found that the chief of that island had made two unsuccessful attacks on the troops of _Pamakásan_ and _Súmenap_, and been forced at last to leave his capital with his son, brother, wives, and relations, and seek safety with the Dutch.

"When _Pangéran Chákra Deníngrat_," say the Javan authors, "saw that nothing more was to be done against his enemies," he resolved to throw himself on the protection of the Dutch; and a Dutch ship arriving at _Madúra_ he dispatched a letter, soliciting their assistance. This letter the captain forwarded to _Surabáya_, and received the instructions of the admiral to take the chief and his family on board, and convey them to that capital. The captain immediately sent a messenger on shore to the _Pangéran_, informing him of the wishes of the admiral, and inviting him to come on board with his family. _Pangéran Chákra Deníngrat_, who was unconscious of treachery or duplicity, and consequently void of suspicion, with a joyful heart accepted the invitation, and, accompanied by his family, immediately went off in a small fishing-boat. When arrived alongside of the ship, the followers who carried the _upachára_ (emblems of state) were ordered to go on board: after them the _Pangéran_ himself ascended, and then his wife, _Ráden Ayu Chákra Diníngrat_. When the _Pangéran_ came upon deck, Captain Curtis took him by the hand, and delivered him over to one of his officers, who immediately led him into the cabin. The captain remained till the _Ráden Ayu_ had ascended, and as soon as she came on deck he likewise took her by the hand, and after the European manner kissed her cheek. Not understanding the custom she became alarmed, and thinking that Captain Curtis was offering an insult to her, screamed out, and called aloud upon her husband, saying, "the Captain had evil intentions." The _Pangéran_ hearing the cries of his wife became furious, and drawing his _kris_ rushed out, and without further inquiry stabbed the Captain. The attendants of the chief, who had come on board with the state ornaments, following the example of their master, raised the cry of _amók_ and immediately fell on the crew of the vessel. The latter, however, were too powerful for them, and in a short time the whole of the Madurese party were killed, together with the chief and his wife.

When a question arises respecting the chastity of the Javan women, this story is usually referred to.

The rebels, both in the eastern provinces of Java and on _Madúra_, were joined by auxiliaries from _Báli_. Those, however, on _Madúra_ were soon overmatched by the Dutch troops, and obliged to fly again to _Báli_. _Jáya Puspíta_ was more successful. Moving from _Surabáya_ through the central districts towards _Kérta-súra_, he subjected the provinces of _Jápan_, _Wírasába_, _Kedíri_, _Mádion Sukawáti_ and the neighbouring districts. While his head quarters were at _Kedíri_, he was joined by _Pangéran Dípa Nagára_ one of the sons of the _Susúnan_, who setting himself up as sovereign of Java, under the title of _Panambáhan Héru Chákra Senapáti Panatagáma_ appointed _Jáya Púspita_ to be his _Páteh_, with the title of _Ráden Adipáti Panatagáma_, and commenced the establishment of a government at _Mádion_.

An army was sent from _Kérta-súra_ against _Mádion_, under the command of _Pangéran Blítar_, another son of the _Susúnan_; but before they reached that place the _Pangéran_ was summoned to return, in consequence of the severe indisposition of his father. This prince died in the Javan year 1648, and was buried at _Megíri_. He had previously written to the Dutch authorities, requesting them to select one of his three sons _Pangéran Adipáti Amángku-nagára_, _Pangéran Purbáyá_, or _Pangéran Blítar_, to succeed him in the government.

Thus ended the reign of a prince, which had been one constant scene of commotion and rebellion, directed perhaps not so much against the authority of the prince himself, as against the Dutch, who now took so active a part in the affairs of Java, that the power of the native sovereign was merely nominal.

The Javan writers, whether from a desire to exclude from the regal line a prince who thus became the mere puppet of the Europeans, or from a conviction of the truth of the circumstance, seem anxious to prove that he was not the real son of _Susúnan Tegál Arom_, as related, but a son of the _Pangéran Kajuran_, father-in-law of _Trúna Jáya_, and who afterwards, when he established himself in the southern hills, took the name of _Panambáhan Ráma_. The story runs, that the _Rátu_ of _Mangkúrat_ being delivered of a deformed and imperfect offspring, the _Susúnan_ secretly sent the child to _Kajúran_, who was supposed to deal in witchcraft, and that the _Pangéran_ took the opportunity of destroying it, and substituted his own child in its place. This child, however, was born of a daughter of _Pangéran Purbaya_, the younger brother of Sultan _Agong_; so that on the mother's side it was of royal extraction. "But," say the Javan writers, "as the present princes of Java are descendants from _Pakubuána_, this story is not talked of in public; although in private societies there are many who put faith in it."

On the 13th of December, 1705, articles were agreed upon with the Sultan of Bantam, to ensure the weight and quality of the pepper to be delivered.

On the 9th of October, 1708, a further contract was entered into with the sultan, with the view principally of renewing and confirming the contracts, bonds, deeds of remission, &c., entered into and concluded with his predecessors.

In August, 1731, another contract was entered into with the sultan, of which the following were the most interesting articles.

That all Búgis, Maláyus, Javans, and other native traders, shall be allowed freely to dispose of their wares at Bantam, without any interference on the part of the Dutch Resident, provided they do not trade in articles which constitute the Company's monopoly. The subjects of Bantam shall be permitted to trade to Java on condition that they do not abuse the confidence thus placed in them by engaging in illicit commerce. The sultan promised to adopt immediate measures for increasing the annual deliveries of pepper to the Company, and engaged to hold out every possible inducement to the _Lámpung_ people to extend the cultivation of the article, instead of depressing them by unnecessary acts of severity. A deed was also executed about this time ceding _Púlo Pánjang_ to the Dutch, for the purpose of keeping an establishment on it for assisting vessels in distress.

On the 9th December, 1733, a further contract was entered into with the sultan of Bantam, by which many regulations were made respecting the pepper monopoly.

Being called upon to renew the bond for the sum of six hundred thousand Spanish dollars in favour of the Dutch, the sultan, after previously stating whence this _lawful_ debt originated, bound his kingdom and revenues for the same, and at the same time conferred on the Dutch the exclusive trade in pepper and other privileges. The deed of remission, bearing date 28th April, 1684, was further renewed, by which a conditional remission of the above-mentioned bond was granted. An act of donation from the price of ground, called _kámpung báli_, was at the same time granted.

Of the three sons of the deceased _Susúnan_, the Dutch government made choice of the _Pangéran Adipáti Amángku Nagára_, as his successor; he was accordingly publicly installed, under the title of _Susûhunan Prábu Senapáti Ingalága Abdul Ráchman Sahídin Panatagáma_.

The first and principal event in this reign was the rebellion of the younger brothers of the prince, _Pangéran Purbáya_ and _Blítar_, occasioned principally by their being deprived of the lands and honours which they had enjoyed during the lifetime of their father. They first raised a party in the capital, and made an attempt, during the night, to enter the _kráton_ and put the _Susúnan_ to death, but being repulsed, they fled to _Matárem_, and collecting their followers, the youngest (_Blítar_) assumed the title of _Súltan Ibni Mustápha Pakubúana Senapáti Ingalága Abdul Ráchman Patagáma_. His brother, _Purbáya_, was satisfied with a secondary authority, under the title of _Panambáhan Senapáti Ingalága_.

In a short time the provinces of _Bányumas_, _Matárem_, and _Kedú_, submitted to these chiefs, and a union taking place with the party under _Panambáhan Héru Chákra_, the authority of the newly elected _Susúnan_ became endangered.

_Pangéran Aria Matárem_, uncle of the _Susúnan_, at the same time quitted _Kérta Súra_, and reared the standard of rebellion in _Grobógan_ and _Blóra_. This chief was, however, soon after decoyed into the hands of the Dutch in the following manner.

"The _Pangéran_ was induced to go to _Páti_, and afterwards to _Japára_, on an understanding that the Dutch would raise him to the throne, where troops were immediately assembled, apparently for that object, but in reality to secure his person. On his arrival at the fort with his family, he was received with salutes of cannon and small arms, and separated from his followers, who were excluded. After he had been seated a short time, the gates of the fort were shut, and the _Pangéran_ and his sons were disarmed, and placed in close confinement. He died in a few days. When the gates of the forts were closed, the followers of the _Pangéran_ suspecting the treachery, would not disperse, until many were destroyed and the rest fired upon."

The Dutch force uniting with those of the _Susúnan_, the rebels, who were now united under the sultan _Ibni Mustápha_, were defeated, and obliged to retreat to _Kedíri_. Here they were pursued, again beaten, and driven in disorder to _Málang_. The sultan fled to _Gúnung Dampúlan_ with only a few followers, while _Panambáhan Senapáti_ and _Panambáhan Héru Chákra_ rallied their remaining forces at _Lamájang_. The Dutch army now returned to _Kérta Súra_, and the tranquillity of the country was once more for a short time restored.

_Sultan Ibni Mustápha_ having returned to the village of _Káli Gángsa_, was seized with a violent illness and died, and his family and followers, worn out with fatigue, conveyed the body to _Kérta Súra_, and threw themselves on the mercy of the _Susúnan_. Notwithstanding this unconditional submission, their chief, _Jáya Bráta_, was immediately put to death, and his body thrown into the river: the body of the deceased sultan, however, received honourable interment.

The rebels established at _Lamájang_ still held out, and it was not until the arrival of a considerable Dutch force at _Surabáya_ that they were induced to submit. According to the native writers, "The Dutch commander wrote from _Surabáya_ to the rebel chiefs at _Lamájang_, informing them that he had been ordered to the eastward with a formidable force purposely to destroy them, and that if they did not quietly submit, he would force them to do so, in which case no quarter should be given, adding at the same time, that if they were willing to submit quietly, they should be received with favour, treated with kindness, and want for nothing during their lives. The chiefs seeing no prospect of success from further opposition, were induced to close with these terms. Accordingly _Panambákan Senápati_ and _Héru Chákra_, with _Adipáti Náta Púra_, attended by only a few followers, surrendered themselves at _Surabáya_, where they were received with great honour, the firing of cannon and musketry, and by the sound of the _gámelan_, which struck up on their approach. It was not long, however, before their persons were placed in confinement, and they were embarked on board a ship from Batavia, from whence _Panambáhan Héru Chákra_ and _Adipáti Náta Púra_ were afterwards banished to the Cape."

The only circumstance from which the peace of the country appears to have been subsequently disturbed during the reign of this prince, was by a kráman, or rebel, named _Ráden Ibráhim_, who gave himself out as a descendant of _Surapáti_; but this movement was instantly suppressed, and all that arose out of it appears to have been an attempt on the life of the _Susúnan_, made by a woman, who with a small party endeavoured to force her way into the _kráton_, but with several of her followers was killed in the attempt. The authority of the prince was now fully established; and in return for the services rendered by the Dutch in the late war, he was required to enter into a new treaty with the Dutch, containing the following, among other less interesting stipulations.

In acknowledgment of the services lately rendered, and also to his highness's forefathers, and in consideration of the considerable quantity of rice still owing by him to the Dutch, on the deliveries stipulated by the contract of 1705, his highness now promised to deliver to the Company annually at Batavia, with his own vessels, for a period of fifty years, to commence from the year 1734, a quantity of one thousand _koyans_ of good rice, or its equivalent in money, it being at the same time understood that the Dutch are not bound to take money for any proportion of the said annual delivery, except when it was sufficiently proved that a failure of the crop of rice rendered it impossible to supply the whole quantity.

That with the view to encourage the cultivation of pepper, the Dutch should, in future, pay five rix-dollars for each _píkul_ of that article; while, on the other hand, the _Susúnan_ engaged to issue an edict, directing the total annihilation of the coffee culture, with the exception of a few plantations near the houses of the regents, for their own amusement and consumption, but by no means for trade, on severe penalties. The _Susúnan_ moreover authorized the Dutch to cause all plantations, without distinction, in the low countries, on the coast, or in the mountains, to be destroyed, and to confiscate, for their joint profit, any quantity of coffee which might be found, for purposes of trade, in the hands of any of his highness's subjects, at the expiration of six months from the date thereof. That his highness should direct the coast regents to deliver, in the year 1734, the annual quantity of timber for repairing and extending the forts of _Semárang_ and _Japára_, the other materials being furnished by the Company. The seventh article stipulated for the delivering annually about ten thousand beams of teak timber (specified) at _Japára_, _Demák_, _Walíri_, and _Brébes_, the same to be duly paid for on delivery; and the Dutch engaged to assure themselves that the regulation should be complied with, by causing the residents of the timber places to transmit the receipts and other vouchers relative thereto, while, on the other hand, the _Susúnan_ promised to take care that the timber should be of good quality and of the stipulated dimensions.

The Dutch remitted to the _Susúnan_ the arrears on account of the quantity of rice (the delivery of which was stipulated by the contract of October, 1705), consisting of no less than 6,537 _koyans_; and also the sums advanced by them in the wars and during his minority, on condition that, on the part of the _Susúnan_, all previous treaties, deeds, and charters, contracted and granted by his highness's predecessors, should be fulfilled by him; in default whereof the above pretensions were to regain their full force and value. It was further agreed that the Dutch should remain in possession of their former commercial privileges at Java, his highness promising to render the Dutch trade still more flourishing and considerable, and to increase the deliveries of cotton thread. His highness further bound himself to supply every day two hundred and forty _báturs_, or Javan labourers, for the service of the fort, free of expense to the Dutch.

The act which closed the reign of this prince, and which affords good evidence of the undisturbed state of public affairs at the period, was a visit to the burial-place at _Bútah_, where _Kiái Agong Bútuh_, and sultan _Pájang_ had been interred. The Javans have such a superstitious veneration for this spot, that they declare it is never overflowed, notwithstanding the waters rise to a considerable height round it, and that it is lower than the adjoining ground. Here the prince was taken ill, and after a long confinement died, in the Javan year 1657.

He was succeeded by his son, under the title of _Susúnan Pakubuána Senapáti Ingalága Abdul Ráchman Sáhedin Panatagáma_, who ascended the throne when he was only about fourteen years old, and was yet unmarried.

The young prince was entirely under the superintendance of _Dánu Réja_, his father's prime minister, until, as he attained maturity, he by repeated acts shewed a disposition to shake off the controul of that chief. He was desirous of appointing _Chákra Níngrat_ to be _Widána_ of the eastern districts of _Pasúruan_, _Bángil_, and _Probolíng'o_; but that chief being on bad terms with the minister _Dánu Réja_, the _Susúnan_ privately, and without the knowledge of the minister, wrote to the Governor-general at Batavia, requesting his sanction to the measure. Shortly after this the _Susúnan_ made a further application to the Dutch, that they would remove from Java the person of _Pangéran Ria Mángku Nagára_, on a plea that he had been discovered in an improper intimacy with one of his concubines. On this occasion the minister, _Dánu Réja_, was dispatched to Batavia; and the interview he had with the Governor-general is thus related by the native writers:--"The General was displeased with _Dánu Réja_, because he had not adjusted these two affairs; and afterwards, when he went to Batavia with presents from the _Susúnan_, the General asked him if he was willing that _Chákra Níngrat_ should be _Widána_ of the three districts? _Dánu Réja_, not aware of the application made by the _Susúnan_, replied, that if that chief was entrusted with so extensive an authority he should tremble, as the heart of _Chákra Níngrat_ would thereupon become great; for he had already been married to the _Susúnan's_ sister. The General observed, that it was easy to remove this uneasiness from his mind. 'Let,' said he,'this chief be under the authority of the Dutch only. Let him pay the money tribute to the _Susúnan_, but in other respects let not the _Susúnan_ trouble himself about him. Let him look to the Dutch only for keeping him under due restraint.' To this _Dánu Réja_ replied, 'If such is the wish of the General, I cannot follow it, because I fear that hereafter the _Susúnan_ would object to such an arrangement, and, repenting of having followed the General's advice, would be justly enraged against me and my successors, for having in any way consented that _Chákra Níngrat_, or these lands, should be placed under the immediate authority of the Dutch.' A pause then ensued. At length the General resumed, and in a peremptory and angry manner demanded of the minister, why he had not prevented the _Susúnan_ from applying for the banishment of his brother, _Ria Mángku Nagára_, observing that it had not yet been proved, that he was guilty of any offence against the _Susúnan_. _Dánu Réja_ replied, 'The offence of the _Pangéran_ is clear and decided; it is known to many that he had an attachment for the _Susúnan's_ concubine.' He therefore requested he might be banished the island, adding, that he would request the _Susúnan_ to make a proper provision for his maintenance. The General conceiving that _Dánu Réja_ was not inclined to follow his wishes, became enraged, and desired him not to trouble himself further about the _Pangéran_, saying that, whether he was banished or not, was not his business; it depended entirely on the government. He then dismissed him to his _póndok_, where the minister was allowed to remain upwards of a year, until the death of the General, when, on the elevation of his successor, he was directed to return to _Kérta-súra_. While thus detained at Batavia, he was repeatedly visited by some of the counsellors, urging him to accede to the wish of the General respecting the lands; but he continued to use to them the same arguments he had before used to the General."

After the return of _Dánu Réja_ to _Kérta-súra_, he is represented as having had an interview with _Wangsarána_, a celebrated devotee, who resided in the first _Kalángbrit_, and who foretold the misfortunes which were to ensue.

On demanding of this _tápa_ what would be the future fate of _Kérta-súra_, he replied, "that it was destined to misfortune, destruction, and sorrow: _Ráden Más Sujána_ and _Ráden Mas Sáyed_ will however profit by it." This _Ráden Sujána_ was a younger brother of the _Susúnan_ by a concubine, and afterwards took the name of _Pangéran Mangkubúmi_. _Ráden Mas Sáyed_ was a cousin to the _Susúnan_, son of his elder brother, _Pangéran Mangku-nagára_, who had been sent to Batavia with a request that he might be banished. They were both at this time youngest children (_timur_).

This prophecy made a deep impression on the mind of the minister; and his uneasiness became still greater, when one day a woman, named _Niái Súka Wáti_, came to him from her mistress, _Rátu Agong_, the mother of the _Susúnan_, saying that the _Rátu_ had just dreamt that she beheld the moon descend from the heavens and rest on the top of the large _dúku_ tree in the _kráton_; and that this had no sooner occurred, than that _Ráden Mas Sujána_ immediately came, and seizing hold of the moon swallowed one-half of it, the other half slipping from his grasp, and resuming its place on the top of the tree: the _Rátu_ then awoke and found it daylight. These were the first signs of what was soon to befal _Kérta-súra_.

The fate of the minister was, however, to be first decided; for on the occasion of the _Susúnan_ raising a chief, named _Súra-Diníngrat_, to be _Bopáti of Pakalúngan_, with a thousand _cháchas_, without the knowledge of the minister, the latter refused to acknowledge him in that capacity; in consequence of which the _Susúnan_ requested the Dutch to arrest him, and banish him from the island. As soon as the Dutch had consented to do so, the unfortunate minister was dispatched to _Semárang_ on a special embassy from his master, where he was decoyed into the Dutch fort and confined. He was soon after embarked for Ceylon, in the same vessel which conveyed _Pangéran Ria Mángku Nagára_, at whose feet he fell, acknowledging the justice of his own punishment, for having assisted in the banishment of that chief, who had in fact committed no fault. The _Susúnan_ then appointed _Nátu Kasúma_ to be his minister.

Accounts were now received from Ceylon of the death of the ex-_Susúnan Mangkúrat Mas_, and at the request of the _Susúnan_, the family of the deceased were permitted to return to _Kérta-súra_. On these were conferred distinguished titles and considerable assignments of land. To _Mángku Nagára_ the _Susúnan_ gave the name of _Wíra Mengála_, with one thousand _cháchas_ of land; to _Mángku Níngrat_ he gave the name of _Pangéran Tépa Sána_, with nine hundred _cháchas_; and to _Ráden Jáya Kasúma_ he gave the title of _Pangéran_, with three hundred _cháchas_. _Pangéran Purbáya_, who had assumed the title of _Panambáhan Senapáti Ingalága_, shortly after died at Batavia, and his body was conveyed to _Megíri_. The eldest son of this chief married a younger sister of the _Susúnan_, and received the title of _Pangéran Purbáya_, with an assignment of _sáwa_. The _Susúnan_ became much attached to him, and at length followed his counsel in all things. "What was right was declared wrong, and what was wrong, right, just as he pleased, and the _Susúnan_ believed it."

This increasing influence of the _Pangéran Purbáya_ alarmed the minister, who secretly acquainted the Dutch with it, and by their interference the _Pangéran Purbáya_ was removed from the councils of the prince, and obliged to fix his residence at a distance from the capital.

Various signs now foreboded approaching war and misfortune, and led the people to expect that _Pangéran Tépa Sána_ would attempt to regain the throne of his ancestors. The _Susúnan_ and his ministers entirely disregarded these signs; but _Pangéran Wíra Mengála_ sought the friendship of the Dutch commandant, in the hope of obtaining his assistance.

At this time occurred the rebellion of the Chinese at Batavia; and as the Dutch accounts of the transaction are far from complete or satisfactory, I shall quote two Javan records without variation. One of them is as follows:

"The city of Batavia was now in the highest state of prosperity: traders came from all quarters, merchandize was in abundance, and the slaves were numerous. The latter becoming arrogant, in consequence of the wealth and power of their masters, committed outrages on the Chinese, in the first instance by beating them, and afterwards by attempting their lives. At first there were but few who committed these outrages, but at last they formed themselves into parties and committed more public acts of hostility. The Chinese applied to the European officers in authority, to put a stop to these outrages, or to punish those who committed them: they could, however, obtain no redress, the slaves testifying with one accord that the Chinese were the aggressors. The Chinese finding they could not obtain justice from the great people, assembled near the sugar mills at _Gandária_[276], to the number of more than a thousand, and chose a chief, with the determination to oppose the Dutch and the slaves; but as yet they thought it advisable not to do so openly, and therefore committed their depredations in small parties during the night. The Dutch, as soon as they heard of this, empowered several natives from _Sábrany_ (of the opposite coasts and islands) to take up the Chinese who were at _Gandária_; these people succeeded in apprehending the Chinese one by one, and as soon as they gave them over to punishment they received a reward of six ducatoons for each. In this way they secured about two hundred. These were immediately embarked on a vessel to be banished to another country, but when they had got out to sea they were all thrown overboard. Many of them who could not swim perished; but a few having succeeded in reaching the shore, found their way to _Gandária_, and related to their companions how they had been treated. The Chinese, upon this, concluding that the Dutch had resolved to extirpate their race, now openly prepared their warlike instruments, gave notice to their countrymen at Batavia of the manner in which the Dutch had determined to destroy them, and requested that those who were willing to join them would immediately repair to _Gandária_. The Chinese in other quarters, equally harassed by the slaves, against whom they could gain no redress, became of one mind, when they received the intelligence of their countrymen having been thrown overboard by the Dutch, and when they reflected that the destruction of their race was determined; they therefore collected quietly at _Gandária_, until their numbers amounted to upwards of five thousand. Here the whole placed themselves under the orders of a chief, named _Sípanjang_."

The other account is as follows:

"It is related of Batavia, that General Valkenier was excessively liberal in his favours to the Chinese. The consequence of this was, that of all the races then resident at Batavia, with the exception of the Dutch, none were so wealthy as they. Whatever was profitable fell into their hands, while the other races, the natives of the country and the adjacent islands established there, found it difficult to discharge the duties and demands made upon them. On this account all these races became discontented with the Chinese; and as it is usual with the latter for their hearts to swell as they grow richer, quarrels ensued, and disputes continually took place between the parties. These increased, until complaints were carried before masters of slaves, where slaves were concerned, and before the regular courts, where free people were concerned. But the Chinese being always defeated in these suits, and fined for their conduct, they assembled in bands, for the purpose of revenging themselves, and began to plunder the villages in the neighbourhood of the town. This happened in the Javan year 1663 (_gúna-rása-móbah jalma_)[277].

"It is related that at this time there was at Batavia a certain _Edel Heer_, the Baron Van Imhoff, who had arrived from Ceylon. On his arrival at _Jokarta_, he learned from General Valkenier the particulars of the conduct of the Chinese, who were thus committing depredations in the villages; he said there were too many Chinese at Batavia, and proposed that a proportion should be sent to Ceylon. This was accordingly agreed to by the high council, and a search was in consequence made to take up the poorest of these, that they might be transported to Ceylon. The expences, in the first instance, were to be advanced by the Dutch, who were afterwards to be reimbursed when the Chinese should have acquired the means at Ceylon. The Chinese captain was accordingly directed to beat the _gong_, and give public notice of this order; but there was not one Chinese inclined to follow it: and in order to carry the proposition of Van Imhoff into effect, it was agreed to arrest all the Poor Chinese. This order was given to the captain of the Chinese, but he declined to arrest his countrymen. Van Imhoff then inquired by what distinction of dress he might know the rich from the poor? The captain replied, "the clothing of the Chinese which may be considered a proof of their being poor, is black (blue)." Upon this the governor directed the _Baillieu_ to arrest all Chinese so dressed; and the _Baillieu_ again entrusting the execution of this order to his _Máta Máta_, who belonged to the races inimical to the Chinese, the latter, to gratify particular enmities, arrested many who did not wear blue, some of them of the most respectable families. The Chinese, in general, were much offended, when shortly the whole of those who were arrested, were embarked on board ship apparently for Ceylon; but they had been only a few days at sea, when they were _amók'd_. Most of them were killed, and the rest were thrown overboard. Of these some escaped to land, and arriving secretly at Batavia, communicated to their countrymen the particulars of the cruel treatment of the Company towards them. On this all the chiefs of the Chinese entered into an agreement to raise the standard of rebellion against the Dutch, and to endeavour to carry the fort of Batavia. There were, however, one or two who did not chuse to become the enemies of the Dutch.

"A Chinese named _Liu Chu_, informed the government of what was going on among his countrymen, for which he received a reward of eighty ducats, and other valuable presents, with a promise of future patronage. This man went as a spy to the Chinese at _Gandária_, and endeavoured to persuade the chief to submit to the Dutch, promising him free pardon; but _Si-pánjang_ suspecting that, however fair might be the promises of the Dutch in the first instance, they would not fail to revenge themselves upon him, by seeking out some offence of which to accuse him, would not listen to these overtures. The Dutch then ordered, that of the Chinese who were at Batavia, such as wished to join their countrymen at _Gandária_ might do so, but that such as wished to follow the Dutch, must shave their mustaches as a sign, and deliver up all their sharp instruments of every description, even to the smallest knife, and neither burn a lamp nor make a fire at night. All the Chinese within the city were inclined rather to remain in their houses, and conform to the wish of the Dutch according to this order, than to quit their houses and join their companions at _Gandária_. The Dutch troops were now making preparations in the fort, and shut the gates of the city, hearing that the Chinese from _Gandária_ were approaching. These came towards Batavia in three parties, burning and laying waste every thing in their way, until they arrived close under the walls, in numbers not less than ten thousand. Some of the guns being inefficient, the Chinese became bolder, and made a furious attack in which they were repulsed with great slaughter. In this affair the Chinese are estimated to have lost one thousand seven hundred and eighty-nine lives. They retreated in confusion, but assembled again at _Gáding Meláti_.

"The next morning the Dutch landed all the sailors from the shipping in the roads, and having confined the Chinese to their houses, according to the regulation, the Dutch government gave orders for their own people, the free black inhabitants, and the native Christians belonging to the fort, to slay all the male Chinese, old and young, who were within the city. Of these, amounting to nearly nine thousand souls, only one hundred and fifty escaped to join their countrymen at _Kámpung Meláti_. The property of all the Chinese was seized by those who committed the slaughter, not one of whom was killed, the Chinese having previously, as before related, delivered up their weapons to the Dutch.

"After this the Dutch troops, to the number of eight hundred Europeans and two thousand natives, under the orders of the Baron Van Imhoff, proceeded to _Kámpung Gáding Meláti_, where the Chinese under _Si-Panjang_ had entrenched themselves in considerable numbers, and soon drove them from this position. The Chinese then retreated to _Paning'-gáran_, where also they were defeated. The loss of the latter affair was on the part of the Dutch four hundred and fifty, on that of the Chinese eight hundred."

While these transactions were going on at Batavia, many of the _Bopátis_ of the coast provinces had arrived at _Kérta Súra_, to present themselves at court, according to custom, at the ensuing _múlud_. The _Bopáti_ of _Demák_ informed the minister, _Nála Kasúma_, that before he quitted his district, the Chinese, in considerable numbers, had assembled in arms and elected a chief of their own nation, named _Síngseh_. The _Bopáti_ of _Grobógan_ also reported, that the same thing had taken place in his district, in consequence of their having heard that the Dutch at Batavia were determined to destroy every Chinese on the island. On this the minister waited upon the _Susúnan_, and informed him of these commotions. The _Susúnan_ replied, that he had already heard of what was going on at Batavia, and was much surprized that the general had not sent him any intimation of the insurrection. The _Ráden Adipáti_ observed, that perhaps it would not come to any thing, and that very probably the disturbance would subside of itself. To this the _Susúnan_ replied: "if so, it was well; but if the war was brought into his country, what was he to do? He feared this was to be apprehended, or why should the Chinese on his lands be thus preparing to defend themselves against the Dutch. It is proper at any rate," added the _Susúnan_, "that we should agree with all the _Bopátis_ who were assembled, whether it would be most advisable to assist the Dutch or the Chinese, for if the war is to be brought into my country, it appears to me that this point must soon be determined. In the mean time should this event happen, let them fight between themselves, don't let us interfere or assist: don't drive the Chinese away." On this the _Ráden Adipáti_ observed, "that if the general requested their assistance, they were bound, according to treaty, to afford it." The _Susúnan_ replied, "if the general requests assistance from me in men, it is an easy matter, and we can readily chuse the right course, but he must not force me to render assistance." The _Ráden Adipáti_ then said, "as this was the wish of the prince, he would assemble the chiefs and be ready to give assistance to the Dutch, should they request it." The _Susúnan_ replied, "very well, let them agree how to act."

The _Ráden Adipáti_ then proceeded to his house, where, assembling the chiefs, the point was discussed as follows. The _Ráden Adipáti_ having informed them of the desire of the _Susúnan_, that they should agree how to act, in the event of the war between the Chinese and Dutch being brought into the _Susúnan's_ country, whether they should assist the Dutch or the Chinese. The _Adipáti_ of _Pakalóng'an_, _Jáya Níngrat_, first delivered his sentiments. "I think it is best," said he, "that the _Susúnan_ should assist the Dutch, but on condition they should release him from all the burthens which have been imposed upon his ancestors." The _Ráden Adipáti_ said, "That is good; but I must remain of opinion, that the Chinese who are on Java do not concern our affairs as to the Dutch: they are not under my orders; they are only engaged in trade; they have done good, and brought profit to Java: why must we assist the Dutch, and destroy the Chinese?" _Depáti Jáya Nígrat_ replied, "It is true the Chinese do not interfere with our business, and it is our own fault that we have any thing to do with the Dutch. Is it not better to take this opportunity of ridding the _Susúnan_ of the exactions he is under to the Dutch? Let us assist them; they are strongest. The Dutch are as iron, the Chinese as tin: therefore it is better to assist the party most likely to be victorious." The _Ráden Adipáti_ observed, "that it was on account of the Dutch being so strong that he thought it wrong to assist them; for," added he, "if we do they will only become more powerful and great, when perhaps we shall not be able to oppose them, and must remain entirely at their mercy. Is it not better, therefore, to destroy their strength while they are not too powerful for us?" The _Depáti Jáya Níngrat_ then said, "If on this account we do not like to assist the Dutch, let us not assist the Chinese, but remain neutral, and leave them to fight it out among themselves." The _Ráden Adipáti_ said, "That would not be according to the will of the _Susúnan_: he wishes to take part with one or the other, and he only asks which." The other _Bopátis_ inclined to the advice of _Jáya Níngrat_; but observing the desire of the _Ráden Adipáti_ to assist the Chinese, were silent, concluding that the part he took was in conformity with the wish of the _Susúnan_. The _Tumúng'gung_ of _Grobogán_, _Ráden Mérta Púra_, then said, "We are as the people who bear two burthens: the Dutch are on the right shoulder, the Chinese on the left; if we throw off one the other still remains. If we can accomplish it, why should we not get rid of both? In the first instance, let us assist the Chinese, and get rid of the Dutch; when that is done we can easily get rid of the Chinese also." _Depáti Jáya Ningrat_ replied, "It is very well for you to wish this, but perhaps you are not sufficiently strong to effect it. In an affair of this importance we should consider the consequences. If we succeed, it is well; but if we destroy one party we commit an offence against the Almighty: what then if we destroy both parties, who have done us no harm? You must have read in history what has happened in the land of Java, and what occurred to those who injured others who did not offend them. Recollect, for instance, the case of _Jaing Rána_ of _Surabáya_, who was put to death unjustly: was his death not avenged, and for this one innocent life was there not afterwards a retribution of sixteen lives?" _Mérta Púra_ was embarrassed, and knew not what answer to make. The _Ráden Adipáti_ laughed, and was followed by all the chiefs; he afterwards said, "This is the effect of experience. _Mérta Púra_ is a young man, and not able to contend in argument with _Adipáti Jáya Níngrat_, his elder." However, _Ráden Mérta Púra_, taking a cup of tea, recollected himself, and prepared to reply. After drinking the tea, and replacing the cup, he immediately addressed _Adipáti Jáya Níngrat_: "How can you talk thus? Is it not better to finish the business at once, and not by halves? Of what use is it to talk of precedents? What was the case formerly is one thing; the present affair is altogether different: they cannot be compared together. We have now our own master, whose wishes we must follow. We must make a new example, and leave others to act up to it." The _Ráden Adipáti_ then demanded of all the other _Bopátis_ their opinion in this affair, to which they replied, "Let us advise the _Susúnan_ to follow his own inclination, either to assist the Dutch according to treaty, on condition that they cancel all obligations, &c. on the part of the _Susúnan_ to the Dutch, or to assist the Chinese in destroying the Dutch, and after that to get rid of the Chinese altogether, or allow them to remain, as the _Susúnan_ may think proper."

This opinion was on the next day carried to the _Susúnan_ by the _Ráden Adipáti_, who further suggested, that it would be well to encourage the Chinese to act against the Dutch; that when the war took place it would be easy to perceive which was the best side to assist, and that the _Susúnan_ should appear to remain neutral for the present. The _Susúnan_ having listened to this advice approved of it. He in consequence directed that _Mérta Púra_ should quietly return to his province, and should encourage the Chinese to act against the Dutch, and promise them, that in the event of their success the _Susúnan_ would join them. He also directed that the other _Bopátis_ should make preparations for collecting their forces.

In pursuance of these orders _Mérta Púra_ secretly proceeded to _Grobógan_, and communicated with the chiefs who had been elected by the Chinese, named _Inchi Máchan_ and _Múda Tik_. The Chinese of _Grobógan_ immediately wrote to _Síngseh_, the chief at _Tánjung Welakan_, who was equally pleased with this promise of support. The Chinese from _Grobógan_ then went and joined those at _Tánjung Walákan_, it being arranged that _Mérta Púra_ should make a sham attack upon them, from which they should appear to fly.

_Mérta Púra_ then wrote to the Dutch commander at _Semárang_, telling him that he had orders from the minister to attack the Chinese, and requesting to be supplied with ammunition, which was immediately sent. The Dutch were completely deceived. They furnished _Mérta Púra_ with twenty muskets, eight carbines and eight pistols, and eight barrels of powder: they also sent thirty Dutch soldiers. _Mérta Púra_ commenced the attack before they came, and thus secured the retreat of the Chinese. On this occasion he shot three horses with ball, and shewed them to the Dutch as having been wounded under him.

In the mean time the commandant at _Semárang_, deceived by the assurances of _Mérta Púra_, requested the officers at _Kérta Súra_ to call upon the _Susúnan_ for assistance. He directed that _Mértu Púra_ should be reinforced, but that the chief who commanded the party should receive secret instructions not to annoy the Chinese in earnest, but to act as _Mérta Púra_ had done. With respect to the Chinese at _Kérta Púra_, he directed that they should be informed that on the next morning the Javans would make a sham attack upon them, when they must retreat and join a party of Chinese assembled at the _Désa Sarója_ in _Kedú_, to which place they would be pursued, and from whence the Javan chief was to return, saying, that on account of their numbers he could advance no further.