XXIV.
That for supposed debtes to du Cane from ye Canada Marchantes (for skins, for debtes from savages and for knives) he hath bound the King to pay 8270 £, sterling within ye space of two months.
That for certeine French shipps etc. he hath likewise obliged his Majestie to pay in Paris unto whom ye French King mall appoynt (and that within two months allso) the tome of 6060 £. sterling.
Soe as in effect he hath condemned his Majestie in 14330 £. sterling and given Bur: in pawn for ye payment with which it may be justly sayd he hath bought ye peace.
For as concerning the first some it is most certeine that ther are butt 1730 skins belonging to ye French as appeers by depositions in the Admiralty ye Copies wherof Mr. Burlemachi hath and thes skins are still entire here. The knives are in ye fort, and ye debts from savages utterly denied.
And as for ye second some nothing is more certaine then that his Majestie never had pennie of it.
Butt suppose that thes sums of money were recoverable here why should the King be bound to pay them.
Why were nott thes articles first consulted with his Majestie before ye signing of them, especially seeing in his name and to be certified under his greate seale Burlemachi is made a pledge.
25/1437Why was nott caution also given for du Canes payment of ye frayght and charge of ye shipp of 150 tuns; and for payment of ye marchandize which the English are to leave in Canada.
I conceave it most fitting that ye Canada Company should answere my Lo. Embasores long letre.
(State Paper Office, Colonial Papers, vol. VI, art. 45.)