CAlling to minde my former Travels, and the fit Occasion of­fered me thereby, a little to communi­cate my selfe vnto the world, by a briefe relation of such short passages and ob­servations therein taken, as may mini­ster matter of some Recreation to the vniuersall Reader, from his more seri­ous studies and affaires of importance, be they whatsoever; variety or change (though in the meanest of thinges not vnlawfull) with some Novelties especially, being that (saith experience) which in all, or in most men begets de­light, aliuiates the mindes of the wi­sest, and prepares them (vpon a re­turne) with aduantage, to a better sufficiency in theyr weightiest negoti­ations; [Page 2] not vnlike a Bow that stands alwayes bent, becomes weake in it selfe, and vnserviceable to others: so fares it alike with the most ingenious minds to bee still engaged, without some intermissions, some steppings a­side, though but after a slye, or a fea­ther in the ayre, to breath, to reviue our oversad, our too intensiue spirits; As once the riding of a hobby-horse with his little princely sonne, not ill be­seem'd a King; any sport for a spurt, (if honest or harmelesse, though chil­dish) contradi [...]ts not the Reputation of a Man; It being a point of wisdome sometimes (among the vnwise) to seeme to play the foole, as to doe it vnderstandingly, requires (they say) the best wits; of purpose to forget, improues the very Art of memorie; the way (in some cases) to aduance for­ward, is by a learned skill to retire backe; and by a discreet retreat, no small advantage is gotten; the day, the Field is ofttimes wonne; so the rea­ding of a Pamphlet, a shallow, a dis­pised worke of puft conceits, proues [Page 3] not onely not hurtfull, but beneficiall to the Wise (who suckes advantage from every thing) a helpe in his pro­gresse to his most serious intendments, bee it but for change, for recrea­tion, for variety sake onely, as I have sayd.

And what is there so meane (if of any moment, in the iudgements of the best) but in one respect or other, a man of a gracious wit will make some gra­cious or morall vse thereof to his owne behoofe and others, extracting Iuyce out of a dry Iuncke; sweet out of sowre; honey out of gall; preserva­tiue out of poyson; and Documents of Wisedome from Examples of Fol­ly; but this is a prerogatiue of Vertue, and peculiar to the wise onely; a Taske too hard for all, and positions abhorred by men of honestie, such as are not to be expected in the little gar­den plot of my ensuing discourse, which shall beare no noysome weedes, but (at least) harmlesse, (if not whole­some) hearbes and flowers, though (in comparison) of all other the meanes [...] ▪ [Page 4] for any that will, to make a Nose-gay to smell to on a Holiday; a vacant houre, a Festivall, a time of leasure.

I have therefore made choise (before the rest) to write of my Travels onely to the East Indies, as well for brevity as for raritie (for to speake of all I haue seene abroad would (I know) seeme no lesse tedious then common and ri­diculous, things farre fot, and deare bought haue bin counted best and in most request) wherein I shall not bee over-curious, or too remisse to satisfie the indifferent Reader, nor yet to leaue the most iudicious (I hope) voyd of all content; none that will not, would I willingly should (as not to surfet; so neither) to goe fasting away, if short syppets in a forreyne Feast, o [...]an Indian Collation homely drest, and by an vn­skilfull hand hastily set forth, may (for a moment or so) eyther entertaine their curious sight, or relish their iudi­cious taste.

Thus by a choyce pittance, a modi­cum, a Spanish Bocado, a bit and away, carefully purveying to recreate the [Page 5] best, and to prevent disorder in the rest; however, be it gustfull or not, this benefit (to the wise) will surely follow, as to provoke the sooner to relinquish or leaue off, quicken an appetite vnto better things, and leaue the minde content to haue made a gainefull exchange by a re­fresht returne.

VPon a time discoursing with my selfe about the fickle Condition of worldly Estates, presented daily, and almost every where to my ob­servation; some to rise and others to fall, the same men againe to fall, and in like sort to rise (mans Indu­stry the subordinate, and Gods over­ruling Providence the prime Cause, and superintendent Agent in all; wee vainely purposing, hee alone wisely 'disposing even of all things, making them worke together (con­trary to theyr owne natures, and the intentions both of Men and Devils) for the best to them that loue him (O thrice happy and blest Estate of a [Page 6] resolute Soule loving and beloved of GOD) none so firmely standing but subiect to a declension, accidental or finall; by a decay of wealth, or at longest an expiration of our breath.

And having before bin well Dis­ciplin'd and confirm'd in these and other like Points of Faith. That who so lives vnto the Lord shall dye in the Lord; and all such (whether (so) living or dying) are sure to bee the Lords, securely sleeping and wa­king vnder his Omnipotent, his mercifull, and ever-watchfull pro­tection; As also, that the way to Heaven lay paralell by Sea as by Land, as neere from the East as from the West, from the North as from the South; from whence I had read should be gathered all the Elect of God in CHRIST, which (in ef­fect) I remember was my answer to Sir Thomas Smith then Governour, obiecting vnto mee the danger of the enterprise, with his cheerefull approbation following.

Hereupon it came into my thoughts, [Page 7] and thence (by degrees) grew into a resolution to attempt a Voyage in­to those Orientall or Easterne parts of the world, aswell (to speake after the manner of men) in hope to raise my Fortunes, as to better my Expe­rience, which doubtlesse I had ob­tayned to the full of my desires, had not God seene contrary things more expedient for mee; for a fayre way (as ever vnto any of a meane ranke that went that way) was layd open to me, which some of good note ob­serving, pronounced mee openly (by their Prognostication) to be certainly some great rich man be­fore I dyed; which (for theyr rash Oathes sake, and the better expressi­on of my bountifull mind, the onely portion (to any purpose) I ever yet possest, a large heart and an open hand to my Friend, or Foe in misery) I could wish may yet come to passe, and why not? (without offence) as well as others? so it may stand with Gods glory, and not to the wrong of any; else welcome still (bee it [Page 8] whatsoever) the good pleasure of the Almightie.

For Friends of neither kiffe nor kinne were raised vp vnto mee, ready to engage themselves by spea­king and doing for me whatsoever might, and did procure me Credit with the Governour and Commit­tees, even vnto bonds; whose loue and merit I shall bee ever prest (to my power) vpon all occasions, (change they or change they not) to requite and honour; by whose meanes my Parentage was honou­red; my parts commended; and (vp­on tryall) both in private confe­rence, and in full Courts openly ap­proued; my sallary was assigned me; my place appoynted; and in them both made equall (at least) with ma­ny of my betters.

In fine, there was nothing wan­ting on the honourable Companies part or my Friends behalfe, that might aboad vnto me all wisht pros­perity, but that (in some others) which (for loue [...] sake) I am willing [Page 9] in silence to passe over, as also to shunne all impertinent, and superslu­ous matter, though the onely stum­bling-blocke in the way of my so faire proceedings to my future Pre­ferments then; and (in effect, as originally) ever since; for loue, (I am taught) covers a multitude of Infirmities, but vncovers none.

Briefly then, to shut vp my Intro­duction, and to the matter it selfe; All things being in readines [...]e, and prepared for our intended Voyage, the Companies Orders with our Commission sealed vp and sent a­boord; yards a crosse, and a fayre winde, that now tis time to prose­cute my purpose, and to lanch forth into the deepes.

OVr Fleet (therefore) consisted of Foure good Ships, viz. The Newyeares guift, and the Hector; the Marchants Hope, and the Salo­mon; which together set sayle from the [...]ownes, about the Ninth of March, 1613. of burthen from [Page 10] three hundred to 8. hundred Tonnes, compleatly furnisht (besides priuate Prouisions) with varieties for health and preseruation of life; warlike appoynted though peaceably inten­ded, in a faire and generous way of Trading, howeuer report may wrong our Reputation.

Our Generall, or cheife Comman­der, an vnderstanding Gentleman, Captaine Nicolas Downton, whose religious Orders, (besides the ho­norable Companies) both for diuine duties▪ and ciuill societie, publisht and hung vp in euery shippe, with his owne good Example (no doubt) preuented many grosse offences, which vsually happen in promiscu­ous multitudes.

Our Marchants or Factors were many, well nigh thirty, and most of them men of Experience as euer the Company imployed any; Linguists, and Residents in forraigne Coun­tryes; as Turki [...], Barbarie, Spaine, and Italy, with other places of best cōmerce, whereof foure were Princi­pals, [Page 11] and had each his seuerall charge and respect next vn [...]o the Generall, saue in Marine affaires, wherein the Masters onely commanded; theyr names, Master William Edwards, Master Nicolas Ensworth, Master Thomas Elkington, and Master Edward Dodsworth; he alone more bred a Gentleman then a Marchant, and our Gover [...]ours Kinsman.

Our ordinarie meanes to stirre vp mens affections to goodnesse, as Prayer and diuine Seruice twice a day, on the Sabbaths especially, and choyce of good Bookes (in com­mon) of the Companies prouiding to that end (to the comfort of all) were not wanting; besides a Preacher in his monthly visites, for Instructi­on, and Ministration of the Sacra­ment.

Our places of refreshing were three, the first Cape boon Speranc [...], which affoorded vs plenty of Booes and Baas, or Beeues and Sheepe for small pieces of Copper, whereof the [Page 12] Saluages make themselues Rings and Bracelets; they goe all naked, saue onely before, a little flappe; and feed (as they looke and smell) most nastily; subtill they are, theevish, and very treacherous; their Houses are like Bee-hives, and many together make a Towne, wherewith (vpon occasion of changing theyr heards to fresh pastures, or the sight of two or three Muskets, wherat they tremble) away they skuddle (euery one his Castle on his back) posting to a new Plantation.

From hence, hauing repayred our Flee [...]e, refresht our selues, and strecht our limbes (he that listed) to the verie tops of the highest Moun­taines and craggie Rocks, which (for our paines) discouered vnto vs a goodly Country, extending farre in length and breadth, in lower Hils and greene Vallies running on to­gether, pleasant to behold; yet al­wayes in company more or few­er, and with our Armes, (least the Baboones out of some Thicket or [Page 13] bush should sodenly surprise vs) at the end of three weekes or there­abouts wee set sayle agayne, and not long after came to an Anker at Saint Lawrence Iland, in the Bay of Saint Augustine.

Here wee landed and traded three dayes with the people, and had large and fat Oxen for fiue shillings an Oxe, most curious Darts and of diuers fashions as Art could make, and bright as siluer, for halfe a Ryall or Three-pence, but without siluer wee could haue nothing, which they knew from counterfeit as well as any; wee saw no Towne nor house they had, though (doubtlesse) better then the Soldanians prouided, by good con­iectures, for theyr carriage had a glosse of humanity, a tincture of vn­derstanding; theyr persons full of proportion and comely feiture; tall, straight, strong, and sturdy; fierce of Countenan [...]; admirable ma [...]kes­men at the Dart, and actiue; verie faire and blacke as Iett (for the [Page 14] blackest they count the fairest) and all naked as the former, (perhaps but seruants to theyr Lords and Ma­sters;) many were desirous to haue made some discouery into the Country, but we durst not contradict our Orders, nor hazard the danger of a thicke Wood, whereof wee knew no end; which of necessitie must haue bin past.

Our last touch was at Socato [...], where wee found a King; not a Na­tiue, but of the royall blood of the antient Kings of Barbarie; who got this small Iland by Conquest, and held the Natiues in great seruitude, whome our Generall presented, and would haue entertained aboord the Shippes, but he refused it; yet for three or foure dayes space, came downe daily to the water side from his Castle, with his guard of soldiers borne in a Palanquine, and after the Moorish fashion (crosse-legged) sit­ting in state vnder a rich Cannopie vppon Turky Carpets spread on the ground, and as richly clad in [Page 15] cloth of Gold, conuerst in the Ara­beck and Portugall tongues, with the Generall, Marchants, and Masters both of Marchandizing and Nauiga­ting affaires (himselfe being a Mar­chant, as likewise all the Kings of those Easterne parts, who trade by theyr Agents and Factors) of whom wee bought a good quantity of A­loes Socatrina, euen his whole store; and in the Art of Nauigation, A­stronomie, with other branches of the Mathematickes (by report of those that vnderstood) verie iudici­ous; hauing celestiall and terrestriall Globes, his Instruments and Astra­labe about him to shew vs, which he had gotten (bought or presented) of former Fleets, and euery yeare in­creasing his stocke by English, Dutch, Portugals, and Spanish that came that way; A man of a liuely counte­nance and well fauored; about four­tie yeeres of age; as full of Courtesie and affability as might stand with his Maiestie, and as full of Maiestie (re­specting his Commodity) as might [Page 16] be, for he was a Kingly Marchant, and a Marchant-like King; at parting he gaue amongst v [...] (to some in particu­ler) abundance of Dates in heapes & lumpes, which made our Guisados, our brothes and Dumplins so much the sweeter, whom agayne we gra­tified from the ships with our Sea­musicke, great Gunnes and Trum­pets.

And thus weying and setting sayle agayne (with starbord and larboord; port and helme al [...]e) we steered on our Course, till with the helpe of God, and our constant Monsoone, or westerly trade winde, we verie hap­pily (but hardly) recouered the Rendeuous to S [...]rat, and came to an Anker in the Roade of Swall [...]e, about the tenth, of Nouember, and of our great Company (thankes bee to God) lost onely one man, who came sicke of an Ague out of England, but here quickly they began to dye fast­er of Fluxes and Feauers.

Vpon aduise of our arriuall, by a dis­patch to Surat, some eight miles vp [Page 17] into the Countrey, Mr. Thomas Ald­worth the Companies chiefe Agent there, an vnderstanding Gentleman and once Sheriffe of the Citie of Bristoll, came downe to vs a ioyfull man, and for many enterchangeable causes was as ioyfully receiued, and with him Coach and horse for con­uoy of the Marchants to the City, for now the Terme (or vintage rather) after our long Vacation, approa­ching, wee must leaue the ships a a while, and apply our selues to Land­seruice.

In our short Iourney vpon the way, euery thing almost seemed new vnto me, the people with theyr cu­stomes especially, not the Moores (for I had seene of them before in Spaine and Barbarie) but the antient natiues of the Country, called Banians, who (notwithstanding theyr different Re­ligions) liue ciuillie, neighbour-like one among another, in Cities, Townes, and Villages (but not in Houses) together, whom (in Con­course) [Page 18] wee first saw at Swallie, the first myle from the water side, where the Mocodam or Constable receiued vs, profered vs his owne, with the Townes seruice, and performed it in such necessaries and complements of prouision as wee required, or would accept off; Bread, Wine, Plan­tines, Taddie, and such like Regalos y^• scanty place affoorded; wherewith more delighted thē refresht (as with nouelty and variety) we set onward through an euen and a solitary way till we came in sight of Surat, and of a Nauigable riuer which ran close un­der the Towne walls, vpon which within, stood a Castle (a good or­nament to the place) and fortified with men and munition.

This Riuer wee past, and landed right before the Alfondica, or Cu­stome house, and so along through many streets (humming like Bees in swarmes) with multitudes of people in white Coates, men and women; (close bodied, and full of gathering to the mid-leg) with breeches and [Page 19] stockings in one, ruffling like bootes and all of one single Callico; this being their Generall and most neate, or Angelicall habite, which sparkles (of their kinde of starching) like sil­uer spangles; vntill (almost smother­ed with clouds of heat and dust) wee c [...]me to the English house a day or two after Master Aldworthes returne from the Shippe [...] with the prime Marchants, where wee found our selues as at home, in all respects well accommodated saue lodging, which with breuity was very commodious­ly supplyed, by taking another house with an Orchard and pleasant walkes vpon the roofe (after the Spanish and the Moorish building) to our rich content, hauing Cham­bers, Dyet, Seruants, Coach and Horse with attendance of Indians called Peones, for the way, and all at our honourable Masters charge ex­cept our Apparell, wherein alone, and by our sallaries we differd from common Prentises, onely (yet inge­niously) acknowledging a preceden­cie [Page 20] in our little Common weale, for a kinde of representation to pre­vent confusion.

But now, before I proceed (being called upon by order) I am willing (for more variety) to entertaine a while my Courteous Reader with a short discourse of my selfe and ano­ther, being not a whit impertinent, but r [...]ther a good Compliment, if not a comely ornament to the Histo­ry it selfe, how that in few dayes I here suddenly fell sicke of a burning Fever, and (thankes be to God) as sodainly recovered; for fearing the extremi [...]y of that raving and uncom­fortable Sick [...]esse, (against his will) I prevayl [...]d wi [...]h our Ch [...]rurgion, to let me bleed till I fainted againe, as fore-seeing it to be my remedy; ap­pl [...]ed all comfortable things to my h [...]ad; tooke my bed; and (full of perplexity to dve sencelesse) I com­me [...]ded my selfe to God; after some idle talke to my friends about me, I fell into a slumber, but quickely wakened by a desire to ease my sto­macke, [Page 21] and had (at least) a dozen vomits, naturally, which gave mee a most comfortable night; turned my great sorrowes into the greater reioycings, at the lively apprehensi­on of Gods infinite mercies; made me forthwith an instrument of com­fort to another that shortly after of a bloudy Fluxe sickened and dy­ed; by such words and warrants from the word of t [...]uth and my own experience of inward Coelestiall Ioyes beyond expression, to honest hearts and heavenly mindes, that wonne me his earnest attention (to his and my owne advantage, for I applyed him the closer) which took so deepe an impression in him, that it left him not to his last breath.

To mention all circumstances and passages of his sixe dayes sicknesse, would seeme a needlesse curiositie, which (in comparison of some then languishing and repining under the same Crosse) he suffered with singu­lar patience, and spent it most in abstinence, silence, and meditation; [Page 22] the night before his death, in private conference, watching with him, he told me (after his accustomed mild­nesse) he had thought of my former talke, and should finde my Words true; the next morning (vpon my perswasion) he r [...]ceived the Sacra­ment, after he had made his Will in the presence of another Marchant and my selfe; one Master Edward Hamden; wherein (in effect, ha­ving his memory perfect to the last) he would (more then once or twice) have given me his whole E [...]tate, be­ing of some value I remember, but excusing my selfe (with thankes for his love) I refused it, as not expedi­ent for my selfe (me thought) in re­gard of the worke in hand, though lawfull (I knew) for another, least Religion should suffer, and my labor of love bee thought merc [...]narie, whereof (God knowes) I was ex­ceeding iealous, to prevent occasi­on, or the least preiudice in any, the sicke man especially.

After all this, having tasted some [Page 23] comfortable broth I caused to bee made for him by our English Cook, he presently fell into aswound, thin­king all he had beene dead, but after a while reviving, raysed himselfe up, and looked earnestly round about the Chamber, being full of good Company, Marchants and others, whereof our Preacher was one, at least a dozen, with some Strangers, as our Indian Doctor, &c. and fix­ing his eyes vpon me, beckened me to him with his hand; I went and sate close by him on his Bed; hee presently caught me in his Armes and hugg'd me (not like a dying man) with such strength and vnut­terable expressions of Ioy (between [...]peech and speechlesse) that moved passion in all, but my selfe especially to drowne him in teares; as, Ah my Friend, my Friend; my true, my happy, my faithfull friend: and ah the ioyes! the ioyes, the ioyes; Aah, Aah, Aah, and the like: flung away his things about him, wherein (he sayd) he had taken too much [Page 24] delight, in token how slightly hee now valued them or the whole world; reached forth his hand to all the company, lifting his eyes on high with an overjoyed counte­nance, where his minde in silence had beene long before.

And thus (in a blessed peace) a­bout 9. of the Clocke on a Wednes­day morning, being the 23. of No­vember, 1614. he tooke his last farewell of this wretched life, and changed it (no doubt) for a better: his name Master Timothy Wood, a yong man, and once a Mercer (I thinke) in Cheap-side, but then a Factor for the Honourable East In­dia Company: What I haue written I feare not to be censured, because God knowes this my Relation (in substance) to bee true, and not for mine, but for his owne glory, (the only blessed Author of all goodnesse) have I now at length penned it, and for the good of any that can make vse thereof.

My sad Storie (of a Ioy Tryum­phant) [Page 25] being ended, and the Fu­nerals performed, I am cal­led vpon to a further relation of our Iourney up within the Coun­try, to make provision of goods for best and speediest returnes home un­to our honorable Masters, to which end, it was ordayned in Consultati­on, that by a distributiō of our Com­pany into foure Squadrons, the prime Cities or Marts for Commo­ditie, Trade, and Commerce of that rich Kingdome should be invested by us, as Baroch and Brodera; A­madavaz and Cambaya, each in di­stance at least a dayes iourney one from another; our Commodities were divers, as sundry sorts of Stones; Aggate Cupps of curious Art [...];▪ Quilts, Conserves, Drugges, Cotton Wools, and (for bulke or grosse lading) Indicoes and Cal­licoes.

Our first Iourney or place of rest from Surat, was Baroch, being three dayes on the way, much toyled with heate and dust, in regard of our slow [Page 26] proceedings with our heauy carria­ges, and the toylesome passage of two Riuers with ladings and rela­dings of our goods; (interruptions and stayes being worse then a conti­nuall progresse) but here wee were well refresht at the English house, for Master John Oxwicke a Spanish Mar­chant being appointed chiefe for that place, and of a weekes antiquity before, had made good prouision for our comming, as well for our persons as the dispatch and clearing our charge of the Custome-house.

From hence within a day or two we [...] set forth, and by slow Iournies (as before) came to Brodera, a dry [...]r place (by a great Riuer) but the grea­ter Citie, and all a plaine and plea­sant Country (Baro [...]h esp [...]cially) for Orchards, Tankes or Ponds, verie spacious, and artificially made, (in forme, for worke and workeman­shippe not vnlike our Bathes) for generall vse and vses; Tombes, and Piramides many in open Fields (and priuate Gardens) about which are [Page 27] to be seene certaine Penitentiaries, or votari [...]s (they say) but Lunatickes and men (I thinke) really possest with Deuils, as in the Gospell is mentio­ned; theyr bodies naked, cut, and lanced with kniues or stones, staring and stalking, to and fro, no lesse wo­full then dreadfull to behold; as was also the sight of a Pagot, or a Cell of deuotion descending into a Vault vnder ground, where (being desi­rous of discoueries) wee saw an vg­ly Idoll against a wall, representing (it seemes) theyr God, or theyr feare, but a plaine Deuill as wee call it, in like forme paynted or graven, whom a certaine Sect of Banians doe wor­ship, whereof there are many Sects, but of this no more, Purchase Pil­grimage from relation of exact Tra­vellers hath them lively set forth.

In this City, as all others through­out both Asia's and Afrique wee were lodged in the Ceragl [...], a spati­ous place made of purpose for all Tra­vellers, Natives as else (for they have not the vse of Innes as in Christen­dome) [Page 28] with commodious Ware­houses round about, of one Story, foure Square, in the manner of Gal­leries; and under them dry walkes and places to feed their Coach-ox­en, Camels, Elephants, and Horses, but in the middle all open, like our Exchange; It being supposed that euery Marchant, Gentleman, or Nobleman hath his Tent or Coach to sleepe in, if neyther, they make the best shi [...]t they can, and for their provision they bring it with them, or buy it in the Towne.

Here it was determined by a Con­sultation, for causes or supposals mo­ving them (being before appointed for Cambaya) that my selfe should goe backe to Bar [...]ch to assist Master Oxwicke there, in that mayne invest­ment of C [...]licoes, having a Com­mission given mee beyond my ex­pectation or desire, that (in case of the least cause by unequall carriage in our Masters businesse, or in par­ticular toward my selfe, being per­swaded, (as they told mee) that if [Page 29] he would take the matter well, or live peaceably with any, I was the man) a word from my hand should displace him; such an opinion they all seemed to have of my Integritie, and he no lesse on the other side, as­sured of me; for (concealing what­soever might move passion, or in­cite him to Iealousie, I applyed my selfe to him by Complements of love and friendly [...], till he be­came so well possest of me both for Iudgment and Honesty, upon some experiences of them both, that (in effect) he made me his Secretary, and would not write a Letter of Conse­quence in his owne affaires (as oc­casions there were betweene him and some others of principall note) without my advice and allowance for a passe; wherein (I thanke God) I never fayl'd but pleasured him, by his owne often ingenious acknow­ledgements, with good reasons for his satisfaction.

But yet all this while I am still in Brodera, in the house of a rich Ba­nian [Page 30] well lodged and entertayned for three dayes, till he had procured me from the Gouernour Mosaph Cha [...], or Lord Mosaph, a Guard of Souldiers vnder a Captaine of tenne, both horse and foote, with shot and lance for my safe Convoy to Baroch, our English Friends being all gone forward, and my selfe alone with a kinsman of his owne for my linguist and Coachmate, and not without cause, for my Coach on the way was sodenly stayed by a Company of sl [...]ues that thwarted vs, but speedily rescued by my guard, with knockes on both sides, yet no hurt on ours, and all with such celeri­ty that I had scarce time to draw my sword and shew my selfe a party be­fore they were quite vanisht; then on againe we went merrily, (my Banian especially) laughing and talking, giving and eating of our Iunkets till we came neare to the Citie; there I dismist my valliant Soldiers, grati­fied their desert with a small re­ward, yet to their rich content, and [Page 31] at parting had a generall Salam of them, or Congee to the ground, with a short Vollie, and adieu.

And now being come to Baroch, to the English house, my friend bids me lovingly welcome, to whom I gave my Letters from our Cape Mar­chants, and (after colation) shewed him my generall commission, who presently declared himselfe, that see­ing the matter must be so, he was right glad of my company, as of one whom of all others, he would have made choyce of for his friend and as­sociate; and thus, well possest of each other, on we went together in our Masters businesse, buying Calli­coes as fast as we could procure our Brokers to bring vs in good Bar­gaines, or direct us to them, spen­ding our interims of Vacation for a­bout two Moneths space as best li­ked vs; sometimes in visites to the Governour; sometimes taking our Coach to breath the Country ayr [...]; sometimes walking vpon the Citie walles, which from that stately [Page 32] scituation gave us a goodly prospect pregnant for delight and Meditati­on; and lastly, our owne House, ha­ving high and pleasant Tarasses or Walkes on the Roofe, for dome­sticke Recreation; that in this plea­sant place (in number foure English) we lived like Lords, to the honour and profit of our Honourable Ma­sters, and to our owne hearts con­tent, save a little Iarre that fell out at last, about a parcell of Calicoes, but lovingly and honestly reconciled a­gaine.

By this time, our generall invest­ments drawing to a period, and most of our goods from all parts sent aboord, Marchantlike made up and marked as in the Margent; and understanding our dispersed Com­panies and friends to be againe vni­ted, and on the way towards us (save such as were appointed for the great Mogores Court; namely, Ma­ster Edwards, our Preacher, and some others) we could no lesse (having now leysure enough) but set forth [Page 33] to meet them; it beeing a pleasant observation (at a distance) to note the order of their Coaches and Car­riages, drawne by two faire fat Ox­en a peece, with Bells about theyr neckes, Iinge, Iinge, and softly iog­ging on; extending all in length like a Teeme, (for the way admits no familiarity) inveloped with a Cloud of dust (for a Quita Sol) to shield them from the Sunne; and guarded on eyther side, with swords, halfe Pikes and Targets; small shot, Bowes and Arrowes, &c. As if (presented to a Novelist) it had bin the spoyles of a Tryumph leading Captive, or a preparation to some sad Execution.

Being all met together, we gene­rally salute one another, and each his friend in particular, with mutu­all congratulations, for our good suc­cesse and safe returnes thus farre; having lost but one (as I remember) a yong Gentleman, Master Henry Smith, Nephew to Sir Thomas Smith our Governour, who dyed of a [Page 34] bloudy Fluxe at Amadavas, being a prime youth and much lamented; and here unawares (as many light on ill Bargaines) I over-hastily changed my horse for a Coach, and tooke his place that left it, to con­ferre with my friend and familiar acquaintance, Master Ralph Preston, a Religious Gentleman; and quite forgetfull of his mishap out ward bound, I fell into the very same, by letting one Legge hang out of the Coach, and (in talke) moving it to and fro, the Wheele caught it, which my friend perceiuing, he presently cryed out to stay the Coach, Racke Racke, as Master Henry Smith had done before for him, which saved both our Legs from breaking, but did rend my heele, which for a Weeke so tormented mee, that I could scarce take rest, yet (thankes to God for a good flesh) soone well againe, but could not travayle in a Fortnight after, nor scarce then, save in a Palanquine to Su­rat.

[Page 35]And thence aboord the Ships a­gaine, scarce cold yet of the Portu­gals bloud, by meanes of a late cruell fight in our absence, occasioned by the Portugals, who (with sixe Galli­ons, or great Ships of Warre, two Gallyes, and sixty Frigats) sodainly surprised the Marchants-Hope, which was deepe and richly laden for England, not doubting to have taken her as shee lay at Anker with the rest, in that unexpected manner cutting their Cables by the Halser, and with a strong Current of the Tide forcing in upon her; but were soundly beaten for theyr haste; for in laying her aboord on all parts with throngs of men and fresh sup­plyes, the Master and Company be­ing vigilant and valiant, stoutly resi­sted; gave them so hote entertain­ment that theyr legs and armes were sent flying into the Ayre, and the Ship pestered with their dead and dying bodyes, scorched and woun­ded with weapons and fire-workes, and theyr bloud issuing out the Scup­per [Page 36] holes into the Sea, as not wil­ling to abide theyr fury; by this time the rest of our Fleet had like­wise cut their Cables, and were un­der Sayle, increasing the fight a long time (by report with los [...]e but of two or three of our men) till they had made such a slaughter amongst them (the Frigates especially) that theyr dismembred bodyes after they had breathed their last, with shrikes and cryes in the Conflict, lay floting on the Sea, and coveting the Shore, were taken up dayly for many dayes, by the Port [...]gal Inhabitants, and the Indians for theyr spoyle; and the r [...]st unable to hold out, away they went with no l [...]sse shame and losse of for­mer reputation, then perpetuall ho­nour to our English Nation, through out the Indies.

The next tydings that I heard, (being now againe in the Fleet with the rest, expecting our further pas­sage to the Southward, according to the Companies Commission) was a Messenger from our Generall, or [Page 37] chiefe Commander, tha [...] I must come to sp [...]ake with him: Aboord the Admirall I went, a little limping of my late hurt, and being come, he receyved me with courtesie, tooke me apart into the Gallery, and (to be briefe) told me that for such and such reasons, the Councell had de­termined of me for Surat, and there­fore wisht mee to provide for the Shore, namely (with leave of mo­desty I speake it) for the good opi­nion they had iustly conceyued of me, to be a friend of trust unto Master Aldworth, and an ayde unto our Masters affaires, occasioned by some refractorie fugitives that not long before our arrivall (to make a purchase) had attempted his death, being forced into his chamber (a weakly man) to stand upon his guard to preserue his life. All which did not a little cheere me up, and quicken in me a Noble resolution unto my charge, though incredibly thenceforth (as from God to keepe me exercised I thinke) from time [Page 38] to time opposed by some fire brand [...], some seditious Malecontents or other, repi [...]ing my respect, to my great discour [...]gement, and no small sufferings, notwithstanding my best indeavours and dese [...]t, which doubtles [...]e stirred them the more, and increased my owne sorrowes; for wrath is cruel, and anger is outragi­ous, but w [...]o is able to stand before Envie [...] Pro. 27. 4.

Few day [...]s after this, (at last par­cing) I went aboord againe to take my leaue of the Generall, and (not without open demonstrations of his loue, teares and embracements) ha­ving commended him and his whole proceedings to the blessing of the the Divine prouidence, I left him; and with my good wishes to all the rest, in company with our Factorie went ashore to Surat; having had but few nights before, a dreame, that in my passage for Bantan, two sturdy Knaves grapled with mee to have heaved me over-boord, but in the conflict (to save my s [...]lfe) I a­waked, [Page 39] and finding it but a Dreame was glad.

Here for a Moneth or two, wanting no leasure, we spent our time at Su­rat, euery man as (with approbation) best liked him; sometimes within doores, sometimes abroad; now with our provision visiting this garden, now that Orchard; to day fresh Ri­uers; to morrow open feilds and faire Monuments, whereof there are store, but alwaies (after the Countries custome) in Coach or on Horse to preuent disgrace; our recreation for the most part, Bow and arrowes, and free from all molestation of the Inhabitants; a mixt people, quiet, pe [...]ceable, very subtill; civill, and vniuersallie gou [...]rned vnder one King, but diuersly law'd and custom­ed; their grayne is Wheat, for the better; Rice, and diuers kindes else for the common sort; their proui­sion of other victuall is Beeues and Buffeloes; sheepe & goates; young kidde and hennes in aboundance, and of littl [...] value for the great pl [...]n­ty, [Page 40] and fewenesse of eaters; for the Banians of whatsoeuer sect (being halfe the Inhabitants, and the anti­ent Natiues of the Kingdome) by theyr Lawes eate no kinde of flesh, nor any thing that hathlife in it; nor dae they kill any thing (for theyr liues) though neuer so venemous or hurtfull, no not a Mouse nor a louse, but will rather feed them; their greatest cruelty is to lay it downe, and let it shift for it selfe; (O happy Creatures that breede amongst the Banians) a kinde of Rechabits al­so, for they neuer drinke wine, nor any strong drinke, but water only, yet so fat and sleeke that they shine agayne; Confectuaries of all sorts, as Sugar-Cakes, and March-panes; Suckets and Marmelades; Rice, Pulse, and other Grayne stewed with Butter and Spices after theyr most savorie fashion, is there onely feeding; but the Moores and Ma­hometanes, more at liberty, for they abstaine from nothing but Swines flesh, which is a cause that many [Page 41] parts of the Country, even whole Fields doe swarme with them; these drinke wine liberally, and strong waters, yet never drunke but in the Night, and then theyr wo­men, theyr Wives and Concubines (whereof they are stored according to theyr states) sing most melodious­ly, with such elevated and shrill voy­ces, strayned vnto the highest, yet sweet and tuneable, rising and fal­ling according to their art and skill, (for euery Country hath his owne, and more or lesse excelling) that I have been ravisht in those silent sea­sons with the sweet Eccho, or re­flection thereof from a faire dist­ance, and kept waking houres toge­ther, listning to them; anticipating (in my desires) the new Moones, which they constantly thus cele­brate; for the Heavenly representa­tion thereof (me thought) where commonly my meditations had their end.

For at like times especially (though superstitiously) they observe, (or [Page 42] rather prophane) these and the like ceremonies, sing aloud vnto God our strength, make a ioyfull noyse vnto the God of Iacob, take a Psalme and bring hither the Timbrell, the plea­sant Harpe with the Psalterie; blow vp the Trumpet in the new Moone, in the time appointed on our solemn Feast-day; againe, praise the Lord with Harpe, sing vnto him with the Psalterie, and an Instrument of Ten strings, sing vnto him a new song, play skilfully with a loud voice; a­gaine, O clap your hands all yee peo­ple, (both Men and Women in their Himnes & Dances) shout vnto God with the voice of Triumph; then they annoint their heads with Oyle, and their cups runne over; ma­king their faces also to shine with costly Oyntments and odoriferous, at first sight or newes of the new Moone, which they congratulate with great ioy, the slaue to his Lord, the seruant to his Master, and one friend to another, A l [...] Espan̄ol [...] erying Albricias, Albricias, a re­ward [Page 43] for our watchfulnesse or good tydings.

Their chiefe recreation is riding of Horses swift and actiue, for dis­cipline & seruice, with Lance, Bow, and Target, whereof they abound, and haue very good, not inferiour to the Spanish lennet; but their Princely sport is hunting the wilde Bore and Antelope, peculiar to the King, his Nobles, and Gentry; a people throughout of mighty estate or wealth, yet all subiect (in a mo­ment) to the spoile, or to be resto­red, at the pleasure of their Prince; full of Maiestie in their port, and no lesse of expectation for respect; sumpteous in their buildings; curi­ous in their Orchards, and Gardens, beautified with Artificiall Ponds, Fountaines, and Water-workes; populous in their attendance; rich in attire; imperious Lords over their Servants; and cruell in their correc­tions: having also both for state and War, aboundance of Elephants, which likewise they use for theyr [Page 44] Iourneyes as Sumpter horses, and to carry their Women and Children, twenty (perhaps) in a frame of Tim­ber (Castle-like) vpon his Backe, with windowes and small pieces of Ordnance planted forward and backward (the Country being full of Theeves, and dangerous) and vpon his brawny necke (Monkie-like, of same bignesse with his head, or big­ger) sits a man astride in full bredth with a hooke in his hand like a sickle, for a Bridle, and a Spurre to guide and stay him, which is done with the least touch of the sharpe poynt upon his Noale, where­of hee is very tender; hath a bo­dy like a house, but a Tayle like a Ratte, erecting it like a Cedar; lit­tle eyes but great sight; very me­lancholly but wise (they say) and full of vnderstanding, (or subtilty ra­ther for a beast) sometimes they be­come madd, (of what I know not) and breaking loose endanger multi­tudes; is fed somewhat costly, as with good bread, muskmillious, su­gar [Page 45] Canes, sweete stalkes, and sow­er grasse, or sedge of the worst; steeres like a hulke, stifnecked, al­most all of one peice; feeds himselfe with his Trunck or snoute, (that deadly instrument of his rage) be­ing of a iust length [...]o the ground; taking his meat with the end there­of, and winding it vp, (or vnder ra­ther) to his mouth, so eates it; but drinkes therewith at length; his stable is commonly the open ayre; a massie yron chaine his halter; a great Tree his manger: and the sha­die boughes his shelter; and thus stands this Monster by one of his legges (of like proportion with a post or a beame) all the day bound to the good bebauior, til occasion re­lease him; in whose descriptiō I haue bin somewhat the larger, because God himselfe calls him the cheife of his wayes, Behemoth by name. Job. 40.

Theyr drinke in generall (for or­dinary) is water, made relishable by arte or nature; by thirst or some pre­paratiue; [Page 46] and wholsome by a natu­rall concoction, or a causuall preser­vatiue; according to each constituti­on, and the Countries prouision; with a mans owne discretion in the vse of the creature; euery one to himselfe herein, being (as wee say) either a foole or a Physition, hauing sweete meates enough for the for­mer; remedies and receits (or con­cei [...]es) for the latter. El borach [...] [...], mas el aguado ci. saith the Spanish proverbe.

The Country affoords no Wine but artificiall distillations of [...] ­ples, like our hot waters: very tast­full they are, and wholsome, but not so strong, so ful of spirit as ours, which makes the Moores to prize them farre above theyr owne, and to esteeme them for the best pre­sent, or Marchandize can be brought them; onely the Portugal Inhabi­tants in their Townes and Cities (being many and great) doe make a kinde of Wine of dryed Grapes, or Raysins of the Sunne, for relish and operation the best (I thinke) in the world, not inferiour to the Spanish Nectar, El vino de San Martin: being pleasant, strong, and cordiall, [Page 48] called Raysin Wine, almost of the colour of Alicant, or steelebacke, which (thankes to our honourable Masters) wee were seldome with­out, or some other, to concoct the crudity of our not so wholsome Waters, at meales especially, and never did vs any hurt but good, though bought (but not immediate­ly) of an enimy: for wee were wise, and warie enough in that.

Their habite (as I have sayd) is white, light, and thinne, fit for the Countryes heate; but thicker, and richer Clad in the Winter, with Pintadoes, Silke stuffes, Sattins, and Damasks dyed into all sorts of lively & good colers, cloth of Gold, Silver, & Tyssue, of their own, whereof they haue plenty, being quilted with a cotton Wooll between the outside, & the inner lining: for their seasons doe alter there with a sensible diffe­r [...]nce as here.

Their Coynes in silver, (as for Gold I never sawe any that I re­member) [Page 49] are Mamudes and Rup­pees; the Mamude in value about 10. pence halfe-penny English; the Ruppee, more or lesse as they differ in their names and va­luations, of which there are foure or five sorts at least, and the least of them about two Mamudes and a halfe, the Ruppee; stamped on both sides with Moorish Characters, and in forme very thicke and round; their Copper mony whereof they have such plenty, as (if tollerable for exportation) might prove a good returne; being made into great churlish peeces) they call Pises, whereof 30. (commonly) make a Mam [...]dee, and of the rest propor­tionably; but still after the incon­stant current of the Exchange, al­most continually rising and falling, which is in the power of the She­raffs, Bankers, or Mony-Changers to alter at their pleasure.

Their Country for the most par [...] (being plaine from Hils and Moun­taines) is indifferently stored with [Page 50] Mes [...]ites or Churches very fayre and sumptuous; with [...] also or Villages; Townes and Cities, plea­sant, great, and populous: River▪d Walled, Castled, and munitioned; and constantly watered at a certaine yearely season, to wit our Summer: from towards the end of May, to the end of August, or thereabout, with frequont sober Raines, scarce two faire dayes together, without some showers or other, and all the yeare after so cleere a Firmament, as not a Cloud to be seene, that I have beene weary of fayre weather: and this Rayne-water by the better sort is received into Vaults, made for the nonce, to serve them for theyr drinke all the yeare after, be­ing wholsommer (they fay) then theyr other waters: as also, this Raynie season is observed of all for the best times to travayle in.

I could yet say more in [...] particulars, but having sayd enough (I thinke) in proofe of my Travels, and prayse of the Countries good­nesse: [Page 51] it were superfluous, and be­yond my intent to become Cosmo­graphicall, and therefore I will here confine my selfe, being now sum­moned to a Consultation, determi­ning a Iourney to be made unto the foresayd City of A [...]adavas, by Master Thomas Aldworth the Cō ­panies chiefe Agent; my selfe his second; for Cashier and Accountant; with foure other English, whereof two were homebred Marchants, and [...] more: to provide goods in readi­nesse for our next Fleet, that the Ships (to theyr great damage) might not bee deteyned as be­fore.

And for more safety both of goods and lives, our charge wee had with us being of great importance, & the Country (as I have sayd) very dange­rous, by reason of Theeves, which continually (vpon intelligence) ly [...] arm'd in Troupes on the way for booties; wee held it best (though o­therwise inconvenient) Mocrob Chan the gouernour of Surat then [Page 52] trauelling toward Court at the Kings command) to take the bene­fit of his Lascar or Campe (as also diuers others, it being the Countries custome in like sort to set forth, or with a Cara [...], a Caffala, a multitude of all sorts of people with theyr goods to that end gathered together,) for our more safe convoy, which yet we enioyed not past one night aside of Baroch, till wee met againe at Cam­baya, being both our worse and far­ther way; For this great Lord with his many hands and much helpe po­sting faster then wee could follow with our heauy and slow carriages, lef [...]vs alone in the midst of danger, (God onely protecting vs) being three nights on the way, before wee could reach to Cambaya, and spent two of them (with their sunschor­ching dayes) by the water side, ha­ving only our Tent for shelter, ex­pecting there a boate to passe vs ouer out of that Purgatorie, and another of mischieuous minded men, and murmuring Malecontents; Taddie­por [Page 53] Marchants and heartlesse soul­diers; repining not onely my charge, but my precedency also (or next re­spect vnto Master Aldworth, and that by his precise order, against my owne desire, enioynd me) to their antient matrimony; making me both his Coach-mate and his right hand at Table; and the more I sought by gentlenesse (for the present) to ap­pease theyr spight, or (in continu­ance) by some change of behauiour to confront their folly. Pro. 26. 4. 5. the more (like themselues) they (still conspiring) in both respects mi­stooke, and traduced me; declaring hereby the implacable disposition of Envy; but God alone did plead my cause, and (by degrees) put them to silence in theyr graues.

Here at Sarode (for so the place is called) during, our aboad, worthy of obseruation, I tooke notice of some part of Gods omnipotent workes of wonder, in the flux and reflux of that famous Riuer of Cam­baya, for fury, not vnfitly called the [Page 54] Boare, for the Tyde from the maine sea twice a day, once beginning to flow (Contrary to common course of nature) comes tumbling in amayne, with such a roaring noyse a farre off, of mighty foaming waues (like white ruffes a bout their proud neckes) that it strikes admiration and terrour to the beholder, in such sort that those high bankes, with theyr dry sands and Oaes are sodenly couered and filled vp to the very toppes, for the space of many leagues in length together, yet neuer ouer­flowen; and vpon returne, with ex­pedition leaves it (for the most part) emptie and dry againe; being (in ab­sence of the Tyde) a firme passage for all that dare aduenture it; which thousands having done (and daylie doe, though some speed better) not taking theyr times aright, or the vn­certaine Tydes deceiuing them, vp­on credible report (like Pharoes host in thered sea) haue been over­whelmed man and beast, Horse and Camels, Elephants and all, with in­finite [Page 55] Treasures swept away into that Rich Ocean, before (upon too short a warning) they could recover (backward or forward) the shore a­gaine, for the River is of a very spacious bredth in many places o­ver.

Being here (after much toyle in moving and removing our charge from place to place, for our best ad­vantage against an assault, which we hourely expected, that wee durst not sleepe but by short snatches and turnes; as also for our most com­modious imbar quing (the best be­ing bad enough in that wild place,) comes a Barque, receives our selves and goods aboord, and in a late Eve­ning at a full water we set Sayle, and (thankes be to God, who is mighter then the mighty Waves of the Sea) not without great dan­ger, about Midnight we came to an Anker right before Cambaya; and the Sabbath Morning landed in that Rich, Fayre, and neat City, so fa­mous throughout the World.

[Page 56]Being now on shore (notwithstan­ding in good safety of life) we found our selves little better then fallen out of the frying [...] pan (as they say) into the fire, for all our goods were presently sequestred, and carried to the Kings [...]lfondica [...] till his Cu­stomes of seaven Per Cent. were payd, viz. foure in, and three out: which (according to the value) would have come to a good summe of mony, whereat we were much dismayed, Master Aldworth especi­ally, for his oversight, or too much confidence in Mocrob Chans favor, whom we often solicited there al­most [...] fortnight, as an Instrument to procure the release of our sayd goods (the power (in effect) being in his owne hands) but all in vaine, till at last, a few dayes before our de­parture thence, Master Aldworth and my felfe (as at other times) went againe to him, and sitting right be­fore him very neere, he eyed me all over, talking meane while to his then small company, at length bids [Page 57] our Broker aske me concerning the clothes I wore, what stuffe it was? Where made? And other questions; to which I answered him; In con­clusion we took our leave, and went home without a word of comfort; a while after comes our Broker, and tells Master Ald [...]orth good tydings from Mocrob C [...]an, that if he could procure him my Suite, wee should forthwith have our goods delivered us; no sooner had Master Aldworth moved it unto me, as a favour which I may not deny him, I told him, what ere it were I would grant it; the word being spoken, I pre­sently brusht up my amiable Suite, and sent it my Lord Mocro [...] by the hand of our Broker, who brought us the same Evening a Warrant under his Signet for our goods, which the next morning (to our much content) I went and clea­red, (our charge being more preci­ous then life, and our Reputation a­bove all.)

But what this humorous Lord [Page 58] did with my Suite, I cannot tell, save (by our Brokers coniecture) to shew unto his women; who for a novelty (though a toy) was obser­ved to preferre his fancy to halfe a Kingdome, for he had seene many as good before, and farre better, when (in his greatest pompe) our chiefe Agent, with all his Traine, in our best bravery presented his Lordship from our Honourable Ma­sters, the Governour and Compa­ny, at our first comming.

During our abode here, we bought sundry Commodities as best liked us, for our Returnes, and (to expell melancholy) that it should not do­mineere (being too much occasio­ned) tooke our Recreation off the City, Orchards, and Fields; but a­bove all, to observe the Apes in that peaceable habitation of Ba­nians, did not a little stirre my blo [...]d with their Apish trickes on the Houses, leaping from house to house in troupes, with their little ones in clusters clutching about them, ma­king [Page 59] dayly worke for the Tyler and Mason, by pulling out here a Tyle, and there a stone, till they had un­covered whole houses in quarters and halfe quarter [...]; and then through the Roofe (as ieering the Inhabi­tants for their silly patience) made such moppes and mowes at them; such Friscoes and Carieres to and a­gaine; now and then letting fall a stone or a tyle upon their bombasted heads and thin shoulders, and wat­ching in the fall what became of it, (with twenty other trickes) that it would make a Thiefe (as they say) slip his Halter and leape over the Gallowes (if he might) to see the sport; and if a stone (unlook'd for) chanced to come amongst them, that they tooke in so high a derision to bee disturb'd in their Worke, that they would flye at a man with open mouth, as if they meant to swallow him; this goodly sight be­ing also to bee seene a great part of the Country thereabout, whole Fields alive, and the Trees covered [Page 60] with over-growne Apes and Mon­kies; Parrats and Paraquites chat­tering and leaping from Bough to Bough, till come to the top, and then shew their teeth and theyr tayles to Passengers for a salutation.

Thus, and thus, to and fro, chan­ging our wearied thoughts from sadder obiects, wee entertained the way in company of Mocrob Chan and his Las [...]ar, till the third day from Cambaya, early in a morning wee entred Amada [...]az, that great and populous Citie, the Metropolis of all those parts of Guizerat; fa­mous for Nobility and gentry, as al­so for rich trade in variety, Indicoes especially, by meanes of a generall confluence of most Nations in the world E [...]glish, Dutch, Portugals, Iewes, Armenians, Arabians, Medes and Persians, Turkes and Tartarians: cum multis alijs: in whose Streets (through the multiplicity of people) all enforce theyr passage by theyr P [...] ­ones, or Footmen, with their speares and other weapons running before [Page 61] the coach or horse, (like Absal [...] & his fifty men. 2. Sam. 15. 1.) Cry­ing Poyce, Poyce, give way there, who serve as well for like necessities as for State, being in number more or fewer according to the qualitie and abilitie, or the pleasure of the person, which none of credit are (or dare be) without.

Here we tooke a house, and set­led a Factory, applyed our selves to our businesse as seasons and occa­sions were offered; meane while for our better proceeding we visite the Governour Abdala [...]han, and pre­sent him; signifie the cause of our comming; desiring his leave and Noble favour in whatsoever case of Iustice we might have cause to use him; for which we should be ready at all times (most Noble Festus) to shew our selves gratefull unto his Lordship: Our suit was accepted, together with our Present; Our selves bid welcome, and a place ap­pointed us where to sit; being in a spacious and princely Court, in the [Page 62] middest of a great multitude of Chans and Beagues, or Lords and Gentlemen, that twice a day mor­ning and Evening duely came to vi­site him; this being th [...]t (I take it) which is spoken of in Scripture, as of Iob in the East, and of other great men sitting in the Gate, or in pub­like, to heare Causes and do Iustice, every one taking his place accor­ding to his degree, or at this great Viceroyes appoyntment, having first given him a Salam or low Con­gee; and all Crosse-legged on Turky Carpets spread on the ground, curi­ously paved or playstered with playster of Pallas (as likewise theyr walles) shining like Alablaster, whereon they tread with their bare feet (as also in their Churches) lea­ving their slip-shooes at the doore, or aloofe off at the edge of the En­trance, like a Shoomakers well fur­nisht Shop or Warehouse; All rich, or brightly attyred (as I have sayd) according to the season; himselfe with a few of the principals sitting [Page 63] somewhat apart, on a little higher ascent at his Pallace doore, big e­nough for his corpulent body, and no more; with no lesse Maiesty (me thought) in all but that, and the Ca­pateria, or Shoe-makers ware, then might well beseeme the greatest Prince in the World; Drums bea­ting; Souldiers guarding, Noble & Gentlemens Servants aloofe off in Troupes attending; and Coaches at the Court Gate in thicke heapes wayting the dissolution of this great Assembly; sitting sometimes heere, sometimes removing, but ever in a place presenting both State and de­light, for magnificent buildings; beautifull Ponds and Water-workes; pleasant Orchards and the like; and in this honorable presēce euery new Moone the common women of the City (in their long sloppes and short Coates) present themselues, by turnes, with Timbrels and Dances, wanton Songs, and antique gestures, for their sport and recreation, so continuing till the Viceroy please to [Page 64] dismisse them; & all this in generall, besides their particular Solemnities, as I have sayd before, in the Night seasons; wherewith my Story end [...], and welcome Gentlemen to a short Colation, with thanks for your gen­tle patience in taking penance at so homely a pittance, and my well-wishings of good refreshings to you all.

ANd now, to shut up [...] Indian Discourse with a word or two of Spaine, being (n [...]xt unto [...] in Por­tugal) on Christian shore, my first and onely place of forraigne residence; where (if I may not seeme to praise my selfe, having little else to boast of in the short Catalogue of my good workes there, save onely the releasing of an English Marchant out of Prison) I would willingly entertaine anew my Courteous Reader with a short Storie of an accident, wherein God made mee the Instrument of much good unto a­nother; but the wise (I hope) will eyther discerne a cause of my boasting, or [...]t the worst will ascribe it to the common humour of Travailers, who love to tell of things they have seene and done abroad in the world, and so [Page 2] at least to excuse me, (for amidst all my extravagant delights, else (I may truly speake it, and (I hope) without offence to Charity) my heart (even then) was ever prone to honesty; to doe good freely; on occasion ready to shew mer­cy; more delighted to give then to re­ceive; and faithfull in my whole en­gagements; with an inward ze [...]le in the performance of all; in a word, no mans foe (as they say, even in those dayes) but mine owne; how much more then (to silence all detraction) shall ry­per times (on occasion) affoord the same things at least, if not better: ill will it selfe (if it please) be Iudge.

Deteyned upon some [...]mployment at the Tower of Velis Malaga, about sales and returne of goods for England, there chanced into the Roade (among other ships, English and French) [...]er­taine Hollanders, that brought a great quantity of Pic [...]elingos, or counterfeyt Copper Mony of Spaine, called [...], and quartillos, which by stealth at [...] of opportunity they landed and disper­ced here and there, as they had dohe [...] [Page 3] other Ports: This in short space came to be suspected by the plenti­full current of the money, (the parties themselves being gone, left others in danger) hereupon the Shippes remaining in the Roade were searched; above all the rest, suspicion was had of certaine [...]hips belonging to the businesse whereon I lay for my Master and others, whereof Mr. John Pit had the chiefe charge, being himselfe at Grand Malaga about other businesse, dis­patching for England; but they ap­prehended onely his Servant or Factor one Mr. I [...]omas S [...]edmer, whom they found aboord, ready to goe for Malaga, and thence also for England; him they carryed away Prisoner to Motril, a­bout three leagues Eastward, where hee was certaine weekes, rackt and hardly used; how hee or the ships were released, I am not so punctuall in my remembrance as to relate, nor is it much materiall (this being above twenty yeares since) [Page 4] yet at length released they were, for the truth then came to light; and whether by torture or else, I am not certaine, Mr. Pit himselfe as principall, was layd out for: Of­ficers of the Inquisition, from Mo­tril were appointed and on the way toward Grand Malaga, to appre­hend him: This by a happy chance (being at the water side to heare newes) I vnderstood; I went pre­sently to my Almazen, or Ware­house; wrote him a word or two of advise, that as hee tendred his life (upon receit thereof) to retyre himselfe for such a cause, which I sent by the hand of a Spaniard, a lustie sturdy Companiero, of whose trustinesse I had observed something before, having imployed him about styving our fruit, and other Re­ca [...]dos of moment, with a charge to out runne the Constable, corre Juan, vete bolando por su vida, que yo [...] lo pagare, bien pagado; Runne for thy life, and Ile reward thee lib [...]rally: [...]nd so he did, for over the Rocke [...] [Page 5] and high Mountaines, (like a Goat) h [...] made such a nimble expedition that he overtooke, and out went the Mule-men, and was there some three minutes before them, which gave my advised friend, the advan­tage of his absence, just as the Al­guazill and Officers came at his heeles, that made his life of full value, which else upon any Mer­chants ensurance there, (by that time they had hāper'd him) had not beene worth one Marvedi.

This newes (till then pensive at heart in expectation of the event) cheered me up no lesse then a cup of neat sparkeling wine, especially for the punctuality of the successe, and the applause of my diligent penne; which procured me the love of those which had never seen me, with munchas Mercedes, y beso las manos, for my good advise; and af­terward upon my returne to Ma­laga, declared it by a generall Bien­venido, or welcome.

[Page 6]And how God did require this small myte of my (not merit but) good will (for hee likes not) to speake after the manner of men) to be long in any mans debt (but with more advantage to him) though alwayes seeming so by the continuall lengthning out of his mercies (if we observe them) be­yond our owne time, even to poste­rity, from generation to generatiō; as if by this kind of acknowledge­ment of his (for his owne word sake) he were still indebted to us and ours, & could never su [...]ficiently recompence our good endeavours, by the utmost of his infinite good­nesse freely promised thereunto in his best beloved, his soules delight; to teach us that we should never be weary of doing him like acceptable seruice, even for the good and safety temporall and eternall, of our selves and ours; but chiefly for his owne honour and glory.) I could heere well declare in a Cloud of particu­lers ever since, touching his won­derfull [Page 7] providence in my preserv [...] ­tion, protection, and deliverance in, & out of most imminent dangers, straytes, and extremities, tempta­tions and conflicts; but for brevity sake (leaving all the rest) I will touch onely three, wherein Gods power, and mercifull providence did plainely declare themselves unto my Conscience, to whose praise alone I speake it, and to stirre up all to a consideration of his wonders.

Not long after this Iubile of suc­cesse (the brunt of businesse being ouerpast) I went to Grand Malaga, whether indeed my desires lead me (contrarie toreason) from Uelis Malaga, where I was left (vpon order of my Master) by Mr. Pitt. in the house of a Regidor or Alder­man, Senior Pablos Nunnies, for more conueniency to learne the language, Rregalado, or respected as in their owne sonne; and grow­ing daily in acquaintance, I began to declare my selfe in the choyce of [Page 8] those pleasures wherevnto my na­ture most inclined; amongst others, musicke and dancing were not the least, which thus occasioned the first of my proposed dangers.

Lying in the house of Capt [...]ine Simon Boureman, of best resort in the Cittie by Eng [...]ish Marchants, my first Rendeuous in Spaine; and being well accommodated for all things, I fell into a consort-ship with other young men to enter­taine an Italian to teach vs to dance, who came once a day to our Chambers; and in taking our turnes of exercise, our Tutor vnaduisedly commended my promptnesse, and the dexterity of my bodie; whereat one of the Company tooke pepper in the nose, and told me (in the contrary tearmes) I danced like a clowne; knowing his malla [...]ie, I brake it off with a Iest, and a nippe withall, that made him halfe angry; til frō Iest to Iest, it grew into plain earnest (being both tender enough of our small Reputations) and sit­ting [Page 9] with our vsuall Company at supper, he challenged me (as not daring) to fight with him; I told him t'was then no time for such a businesse, but that (perhaps) he might shortly heare of me, as halfe determined to trie what mettle was in either; the next morning (I thinke vnexpected) I went early to his Chamber doore, wa [...]like ap­pointed with my Rapier and dag­ger (yet a daily Ornament in those parts, as any part of our apparell, wherein (be it knowne to all men) for my owne particuler, I tooke no small glory) and finding it open, in I went as at other times (though illaduised in that poynt) where I found him writing; After salutati­on I told him what I came for, and that if he meant to acquite his ho­nor (I speake after y^• Spanish phrase) now was the onely time fresh and fasting to walke into the Field, to preuent Concourse or tumult; My Gallant foorthwith changed countenance, yet making wise to [Page 8] [...] [Page 9] [...] [Page 10] accept the offer went aside, and see­med to make choyce of his wea­pons (hauing change of Rapiers by him) and taking a dagger in his hand (mistrusting no Treacherie) sodenly offerd to haue stabbed me with it, but happily intercepting the thrust, with his hand that held it, I closed with him, and in strug­ling (though his inferiour both in age and stature) I gaue him the cleane fall backward, on his bed, and fell upon him, setting my knee on his brest, holding downe still his dagger, punching it vpward with all his might at my face, and at length I wrest it from him; yet (the onely poynt of manhood I obserued in him) hee made no cla­marous out-cry for the matter, as knowing (belike) with whom he had to deale) wherewith (as I told him, to requite his treachery) I could haue slit his nose, or minced his face like a Carbonado; but mer­cie & manhood forbade me, as scor­ [...]ing indeed the basenesse, though [Page 11] enough prouoakt; nor would I for ten thousand pounds haue layne in like sort at his mercie; At last ta­king my best oportunitie, I sudden­ly sprang off from him, and left him alone in his Chamber, free from the least hurt done him, abiding without in an open Court vnder a Gallery walke, resting my selfe be­tweene a marble Pillar and a packe of cloth, leaning on the pomell of my Rapier, expecting euery mo­ment [...]is comming forth for the Field, but his intent was to haue finisht the combate there, with all safetie to himselfe, and sodaine ru­ine to me.

For spying me through his doore standing at that disaduantage (yet thankes be to God not walking, for then he had taken me napping) he rusht out suddenly vpon me with a naked Rapier making a main thrust at my face, which againe (as hap­pily as the [...]ormer) I put by with my hand, yet not so, but that (glan­cing my throate) it toucht my [Page 12] beardlesse chinne, and made the bloud run downe; but feeling my selfe alive, I instantly drew (God forgive me all) with a full resolu­tion to have runne him through, as doubtlesse I had, up to the very [...], had not the spirit of wisdome or feare made him caper backward with a leape (I still blesse God for it) that I never saw the like. Ti­mor addit alas. Feare gives wings. But considering the danger of that play (for I had wit in my anger, though some that beheld us, sayd, I fought sa [...]s feare or wit) and changing my purpose, I followed him close with a double stroake two or three immediately succeeding, swift as lightning; for though not slightly stirred, yet being too farre provoked, (to the terrour of all proud, and commonly false-hearted provokers, I may iustly speake it) my dreadlesse spirit would then haue borne me through the middest of an Army.

In which short conflict, I did so [Page 13] macerate his Arme from the hand to the Elbow, that it grieves me yet to thinke of it, (so little doe I glory in the Relation, save only in our mutuall preservation, mine owne especially from so imminent de­struction) and being gone to our chambers to be drest, to tell why certaine Spaniards of my acquain­tance, and strangers that came then to see me, did so wonder at my Ra­pier, feeling the edge with theyr fingers, (not considering the prin­cipall, that what is done couragi­ously and with expedition, is throughly done. Bis dat gui cit [...] dat, to fight couragiously is to fight victoriously) crying (after theyr fashion of admiration) Jhesus, al Diablo, que espada es esta? was, be­cause (besides his arme) I had pared off the pappie flesh under his hand; out in sunder a thicke gold Ring from off his finger; and withall (I suppose) his Rapier, for at the last stroake, that also fell in a peece with the rest to the ground.

[Page 14]At the sight whereof, Mercy and Manhood againe held my hand, without the least offer to prosecute him any further; whereat (with his owne) there was a suddaine Al­barote, or out-cry of houshold Ser­vants newly up, Murther, Murther, and of our English Cooke, that had done his best before to have parted vs; that Senior Christoval, had slaine Senior Fulano: but (a thousand thankes to God) it was not so; whereupon (by advise of the best in the house (in secret) not a little approving the exployt, nor much lamenting (but in shew) the other, I know not why:) to prevent fur­ther mischiefe, I absented my selfe at Velis Malaga, making of necessity a Vertue; for there in Company of onely one English Merchant, Capt. Lee by name, I improved my study, wrote them backe Spanish Epistles, and profited mightily; having ever since beene a man of peace, conquering by suffering, and prevailing by yeelding, yet not [Page 15] basely neyther, but understandingly too: being minded henceforth (for ought I know) never more to draw sword, but against the Enemies of God, my King, my Country, and my Friend: wherein God streng­then my resolution. Amen.

The second was, being in Ireland (a few yeares after my returne frō the Indies, to weare out, or to wea­ken many discontents diversly occasioned me in England, by means of an imployment I had imposed on my selfe, begun long before, but there (for causes) intending to finish it, with some other respects joyntly procuring my absence,) among others, of lesse Profession, yet better condition, I chanced to be acquain­ted with a very Rooke (as some terme them) yet so well clad in a religious habit of smooth discourse, that I durst have trusted him almost with my life; so dangerous is a fayre shew without substance: the word of trust without Truth, the name of a friend, without the fruits [Page 16] of friendship, or the inspection of wisedome to discerne the subtilties of Hypocrisie, that the very best (of which soever side) are, and have bin subiect to be deceived, that none should be too credulous of faire shews or reports, as they tēder their owne good, in cherishing (all they can against Envie) the due estimati­on of vertue in themselves or any.

This man (upon a proiect of some profit, probable enough had his in­tent been honest, or my serious stu­dies in higher affaires permitted me to have frequēted or suspected him; (but oportunity not so much makes as takes a Theefe, for an honest mind even scornes the temptation, no lesse then a lewd or a faigned suspicion) by degrees had wound himselfe at least ten pounds deepe into my purse, being halfe way to the bottome, till fresh supplyes out of England; and at last (to make the shortest of a sharkes account) was glad to accept of one halfe of my [...]cipall, with losse of the other [Page 17] halfe, yet not without great pro­fit neyther, for a sharpe lesson proves a good instruction; and our best wits are (cōmonly) the deerest bought; but this is not the matter, rather [...]n Introduction thereunto.

For to get this mony I was forced to dispense with my study (to wit K. Davids Psalmes, and St. [...] Epistles; a word or two whereof in a short Treatise touching theyr praise, since composed by me, I once purposed should have bin the peri­od, or posterne unto these my Tra­vels) and to make many a iourney to, and against him; among others, taking the pleasure of a dainty frosty Sunshine morning (whilest my Irish Colt tooke his recreation at home) I made a walke of sixe or 7. miles to speake with him at his house (ha­ving chāged his dwelling from the Town into the Country) and on the way from Tullough, between Ballye Roberts, and Castle-Lyons, went a­side out of a faire greene Lancher, betwixt two great opē fields under [Page 16] [...] [Page 17] [...] [Page 18] a hedge, to cover my feet, not [...]eeing nor mistrusting any danger, yet (in stooping downe) had this thought in my minde; good Lord preserve me, this may be my last breathing: after a while looking up, right be­fore me within twice my length stood a great grisly Wolfe, bigger then a Mastiffe, with a long bobbe Taile, p [...]ick-eard, and a lanke body, stocke still looking on me.

Though somewhat apàlled at this strange sight, yet to run ▪ con­ceived was danger (for I had wit in my feare, as before in my anger) and therefore quietly hasting to be ready for him, still fixing my eye on his (wherein lyes a mystery) till I had fastened my poynt; and draw­ing my knife, with a sm [...]l wand in my hand, I went on guardant, soft and faire, observing how the Curre dogg'd me, (for 'tis a Creature (simply considered) as full of craft and subtilty, as of greedinesse and cruelty, which meeting in men (as commonly they lurke together, one [Page 19] being cause of the other) doe make them more brutish and dangerous (God defend me from them) then wilde beasts; such as St. Paul had to fight withall at Ephesus, (unrea­sonable and absurd people) as doubt­lesse many good mē have elsewhere dayly,) and then turning towards him, and standing still awhile, he would doe the like (for I could haue bin content, on a fayre defence) to haue tryed the combate with him, in assured hope to haue cut his throat, to enlarge my Scutchion with a Wolfe, or a Wolfes head in a Canton, for an addition of honor, as well to my Ancestry, as happily to my heyres and posterity, for God onely makes and gives all.

In this sort perusing one another, on we went in company about halfe a quarter of a Mile together, till (being Market day at Tullough) peo­ple came riding by, away he went, but with admiration of all (in such sort) to have escaped his clutches; affirming it to be the He [...] or [...] [Page 20] Wolfe, that a long time had ranged thereabout; done much mischiefe to man & beast; and could never be taken.

Though now ridde of my rude companiō, I durst not be too secure, least on the sodaine we might meet againe; but euer with an eye in my pole, on I went still guardant, till I came to Kiel Jannicke, aside off Castle Lyons, and there found my Friend to little or no purpose; but at my returne [...] got a rusty sword for my better defence, in [...] case of necessitie, which now & then I thought good to excercise against a bush or a Thistle, with a thrust at the one, and a slash at the other, supposing the Woolfe to haue bin either; per­haps (I am not sure) like that va­liant countrie Travayler (according to the common Tale) who going home late in an Euening from worke, in like sort laying about him (as he went) with his Trun­ [...], at the sodaine out-cry of a [Page 21] fewe Duckes, quake, quake, being at his wits end, disclaimed all his former behauiour, with a fearefull protest as (who should iudge him) to be but a poore Travayler, that ne­uer strook man in his life▪ nor meant to doe; and so more afraid then hurt (hauing scaped a scowring) he went soberly home to sleep: as I al­so being deliuered frō my so great a danger at retu [...]ne to my lodging, on my knees gaue God thankes for my preseruation, and still doe; For doubtles the same invisible hand of heauen that shut th [...] [...]mouthes of Daniels Lions, did likewise shut the mouth of this r [...]uening Wolfe, else rea [...] to haue deuoured me My God (sayth he) hath sent his Angel, and hath shut the Lyons mouthes, that the [...] haue not hu [...] ▪ me, foras­much as before him, Innocency was found in me, and also before thee (O King) haue I done no hurt. Dan. 6. 22. With the mercifull, (saith▪ [...]) thou wi [...]t shew thy selfe▪ [Page 22] mercifull, & with an vpright man, thou wilt shew thy selfe vpright. Psal. 18. 25.

The next and last never to be for­gotten, was now of late the 29. of August 1632. passing from the Ex­change toward my lodging; in Loth­bury from foure Story high, there sodainly fell downe into the street (by what meanes God knowes, but very strangely) a whole Window of glasse in a thicke frame of Tim­ber, all fast in a lumpe together, and in the fall strooke onely the brim of my hat, missing my head but two or three inches at most, by meanes I thinke) of then mending my pace, (not knowing why) at the instant (I remember) when I sprang over into that side of the street, which else (doubtlesse) had strooke mee stone dead, so violent was f [...]ll; for which let my soule for ever [...] thee (O Lord) and all than is within meblesse his holy name, [...]s two or three of those that saw the manner thereof (I thanke them) put me in mind so to doe.

[Page 23]The Angell of the Lord (sayth David) encampeth round about them that feare him, and delivereth them. Tast therefore and consider that the Lord is good, blessed is the man that trusteth in him; for though his wisedome (to exalt the glorious Maiesty of his power) leads them into temptations and dangers, yet his vigilant providence (for his promise sake) never leaves them; I will never fayle thee nor forfake thee: Joshua. 1. 5.

Affliction (like Pauls Viper) at first begets censure, but (upon de­livery) it is the cause of honour. Acts. 28. 3. 6. I will be with him in trouble (sayth God) I will [...] him, and honour him. Psal. 91. 15. And what honor comparable to that of Gods deliverance? Or what promise so to be [...] relyed on as his word? what buckler or Ca [...]le of defence so safe as his protection? what service so commodious and honorable as his faithfull seruice? or whom ever better served, allyed [Page 24] counselled, or befriended (may ex­amples of Truth and experience take place, malice with envi [...] being banisht or put to silence) then by such Allyance, Servants, Counsel­lers or Friends? whose dwelling is in the secret place of the most High, and whose abode is under the shadow of the Almighty, King of Kings, & Lord of Creatures both in Heaven & in Earth, in the Seas & all deepe places. I leave to the iudg­ment & consideratiō of all, with my hearty prayers as for my owne Soule, that every one for their pro­per good (touching the premisses in each particuler) may rightly discern betweene things that differ, and impartially prefer those that excell.