THE
DISCOVERY
AND
CONQUEST
OF THE
Molucco and Philippine Islands.

CONTAINING,

Their History, Ancient and Modern, Natural and Political: Their Description, Product, Religion, Government, Laws, Languages, Customs, Manners, Habits, Shape, and Inclinations of the Natives. With an Account of many other adjacent Islands, and several remarkable Voyages through the Streights of Magellan, and in other Parts.

Written in Spanish by Bartholomew Leonardo de Argensola, Chaplain to the Empress, and Rector of Villahermosa.
Now Translated into English: And Illustrated with a Map and several Cuts.

LONDON, Printed in the Year, 1708.

TO THE
HONOURABLE
Edmund Poley,
OF
BADLEY,
IN THE
County of SUFFOLK, Esq.;

Sir,

Reiterated Favours claim a Repetition of Acknowledgments; should the latter be as frequent as the former, they might prove rather troublesome to you, than acceptable. I have therefore resolv’d once for all to express how sensible I am of the many Obligations I lye under. You would not perhaps be pleas’d, should I go about to enumerate them, because great Minds never look back upon what Courtesies they have bestow’d, being always intent upon what farther Acts of Generosity they may perform.

Among the many other Testimonies of your Bounty, there is one I am here oblig’d particularly to mention, which is your having admitted of the Dedication of so small a Work as the Translation of Cieza’s Travels in Peru. Your Acceptance of that Part has encourag’d me to prefix your Name to the Whole, now grown up into two Volumes, that it may honour them both in the Front, as it gives Reputation to the first in that Place, where it shall remain as a Demonstration of your Condescension, as this is of your Right and my Gratitude. I shall therefore avoid any Repetition of what is there said, or adding more here to display your Merit. Neither am I capable of giving your Character, nor will you consent to it, which puts me upon a Necessity of cutting short; lest my own Inclination and your Desert insensibly draw me on to attempt what I am not qualify’d to go through with. True Virtue can be no more conceal’d than the Splendor of the Sun, nor does it stand in need of outward Ornaments to set it off; you have render’d your self too conspicuous to be unknown, and can receive no Addition from my poor Endeavours. The Design of these Lines is, at the same Time, to honour my Work with your Patronage, and to express my Acknowledgment and Gratitude for all Favours already receiv’d; wishing this may stand a perpetual Monument of both, and to you all Increase of Happiness; and I shall always own my self

Sir,

Your most Obliged, and most

Devoted Humble Servant

JOHN STEVENS.

AN
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It will be needless to trouble the Reader with a tedious Introduction, shewing the usefulness of this sort of Books, several others having already treated of that Subject, no less Learnedly than Fully, so that it would only be repeating what has been frequently said already, and what most Men are sufficiently convinc’d of; besides that, it is not design’d to fill up this small Volume with Perswasives to buy it; but rather to proceed directly to the matter propos’d. But, lest the Design should be misapprehended, it will be necessary, in as few Words as may be, to make all Persons sensible of it. Nothing is more certain, than that many curious Pieces have escap’d the search of those who have publish’d Volumes of this Nature, either because they are grown extreamly Rare; or, perhaps, those who Translated were not Masters of the Languages in which they were Writ, or else for want of sufficient Information; since, as no Man can know all Things, neither can any be acquainted with all Books. These are the Things now design’d to Entertain the Publick, with assurance that nothing shall be offer’d, but what is valuable, and approv’d of by Learned and Ingenious Persons. It is needless, and even impracticable, in this First Part to give a Catalogue of the Books intended to be Translated; needless, in Regard that being very rare, few are yet acquainted with them; and impracticable, because several not yet known to the Undertakers, may hereafter come to Hand: As also, by reason that some which are not to be found in England, are now sent for Abroad, and considering their Scarcity, and the Hazards of the Sea, it is impossible to determine when they will be had. Besides, it is not convenient to Publish the Names of such Books, at a time when so many are gaping to catch at any thing they can hope to make an Advantage of, tho’ others have acquir’d some sort of right to it, by declaring they have such a Work in Hand. Every Piece that is Publish’d, will, it is hop’d, Recommend it self, and be an Inducement to the Buyer to purchase the next, for which reason it will be superfluous to add any thing in their Commendation. Neither is this Work confin’d to Translations, the Undertakers having already a prospect of some Original Manuscripts of the same Nature, Written by Ingenious and Able Persons, who have Travel’d, and not taken care to publish their Observations. The Translations will be out of all Languages, which can afford any thing answerable to what is proposed, that is, excellent in it self, and never before seen in English.

As for the Method here intended, it is to Publish every Month, as much as will make a Book of Twelve Pence, or Eighteen Pence, according as it can be contriv’d, without breaking off abruptly, to leave the Relation maim’d and imperfect, for as scarce any of the Books to be Translated are so small as to come into the compass of a Month, so of necessity they must be divided into several Parts, according to their Bulk. Now each Month being Sold Stich’d, every Buyer may afterwards Bind them up when he has an Author compleat, and therefore great care shall be taken, that the one may end, and the next begin, so as to cause no Obstacle, or Confusion in Binding. All the Books shall be adorn’d with proper Maps, and useful Cuts, that is, not with Representations of Battels, or Draughts of Places made according to the Engravers Fancy, but with true Delineations taken upon the Spot, where any such are to be had; the real Habits of the People; Birds, Beasts, Plants, &c. Whether every Month will afford any of these, cannot be promised, since they are to be inserted in their proper Places, for substantial Information, and not dispers’d at Will to embellish the Book, and divert the Ignorant. Therefore some Months will contain more, others fewer, and some perhaps none, with assurance that the Charge shall not be spar’d where they are requisite, and such are to be had as can be vouch’d to be Genuine. Thus every Person will, at so small a Price, as has been mention’d have a Taste of the Author propos’d to be Translated, and of the Performance, before he launches out more Money to purchase the whole, and has every Month something New to Divert and Inform; which, tho’ at first it may look slight, as being a Stitch’d Pamphlet, will soon grow upon into a Compleat Work, as if Printed all at once, and be no less becoming any Gentlemans Study, or Library. No Author is design’d to be Abridg’d, but fairly, and carefully Translated at large; but if any should hereafter be thought fit, for any particular Reasons to be so dealt with, it shall not be done without the Advice and Approbation of sufficient Judges, and the Publick shall have Notice of it, that no Man may have just cause to Complain he is any way Impos’d on. Every Author shall have a particular Preface giving some Account of Him, and his Work, with a fair Title, for the Binding of him up conveniently into a Volume, and every Month, as has been said, so contriv’d, that there may be no Casma, or other Eyesore in the Book. A small number will be Printed on a large fine Paper, for such as are more Curious, at one half more than the Price of the Common Sort.

The next Book Publish’d in this Collection, will be Diarium Italicum: Or, Singular Remarks upon Ancient Monuments, Collections of Rarities, &c. made in a Journey through Italy: With variety of Cuts and Figure. By the R. F. Bernard de Montfaucon, Monk of the Order of S. Benedict, of the Congregation of S. Maur.

THE
PREFACE.

Our Author, Bartholomew Leonardo de Argensola, was a Learned Clergyman, and as such employ’d by the President and Council of the Indies to Write this History. He calls it, The Conquest of the Molucco Islands, without Enlarging any further in his title, tho’ at the same time his Work contains their first Discovery, their Description, the Manners, Customs, Religion, Habit, and Political and Natural History; with all the Wars, and other Remarkable Accidents in those Parts, since they were first known to Europeans, till their Reduction under the Crown of Spain. In Speaking of them he Occasionally runs out to give the same Account of the Philippine Islands, and of several others in those Eastern Seas. This is frequent in Spanish Books, wherein we generally find much more than the Titles promise, contrary to what is Practis’d with us, who strive to fill up a Title Page with abundance of Inviting Heads, the least part whereof is Treated of in the Body of the Work, or at best so Superficially, that scarce any more can be made of them there, than was in the Frontispiece.

For the Compiling of this Work the Author, being Employ’d by the Authority abovemention’d, had the Command of all Authentick Manuscript Relations, which were either in the Kings Custody, or in Private Hands; besides the Testimony of such Persons then Living, as had been Eye-Witnesses to any part of what he delivers. His Design was only to Write the Conquest of those Islands, by King Philip the Third of Spain; but considering how few were acquainted with them, and that of Consequence most Readers would be at a loss to know where, or what these Moluccos were, he Judiciously Resolv’d to bring down his History from its proper Source. To this End he begins with the Antient, and Fabulous Original of their Kings; then comes to the Discovery of them by Europeans, and proceeds to the Wars between them, and with the Natives, for the Possession of those so much coveted Dominions.

His Description of them is very Exact; That of the Cloves, their principal Commodity, no less Curious; and that of the other Product and Animals, Inferior to neither. The Wars carrying him over from one Place to another; he gives a short Account of the Islands Papûas, and that of Celebes. The Spaniards, to avoid passing through the Portuguese Sea, attempted to settle Trade at the Moluccos, by the way of the Streights of Magellan, which gives occasion to Argensola to entertain us with a particular Account of the Spanish Fleet sent into the said Streight, under the Admiral Sarmiento, which has been hitherto very Imperfectly Deliver’d in English, tho’ very Remarkable, and full of Surprizing Accidents. In short, not to stretch out this Preface, with the Subject of the Work, we shall find in it a brief Description of the Island Sumatra; of the vast Empire of China; of all the Philippine Islands, and those of Ceylon, Banda, Java, and many others of less Note. Nor does he omit to speak of the Dutch Voyages; and Undertakings of Sir Francis Drake, and other English Adventurers; and Embelishes the whole with such variety of pleasing Incidents, that few Books of Travels afford so much Profitable Entertainment, with such good Authority.

No Author ever had a better Reputation, among all that Understand, and have had the good Fortune to Meet with him; for being so Valuable, he is extraordinary Scarce, rare to be met with in Spain, and consequently much more in England. This may perhaps be the main Reason why he has not yet been Translated, and being so Valuable, he cannot miss of that Reception which he has found in the Original. But it is not intended to prepossess the Reader, who is left to make his own Judgment, and therefore a long Preface is designedly avoided, that he may the sooner enter upon so Useful and Diverting a Work. It is not improper, nevertheless, to Advise the Reader not to take notice of some Reflections in Point of Religion, and in other Cases, considering the Book was Writ by a Spaniard, and that it was not proper to Omit, or Alter any thing, where a Fair, and Entire Translation is promised. Besides, That these are very few, and inconsiderable, and consequently not worth observing, as indeed the generality of Judicious Readers will be suffciently satisfy’d, and this Caution is given for their Sake, whom perhaps Passion, or overmuch Zeal may move to condem a Work on such an Occasion, when they can find no other matter to Carp at.

A Draught of the Moluca Isles

THE
HISTORY
OF THE
Discovery and Conquest
OF THE
Molucco and Philippine Islands, &c.

BOOK I.

Author’s Introduction. I write the Conquest of the Molucco Islands by King Philip the III. of Spain, and the reducing of their Kings to their former Subjection, to his Predecessors, by Don Pedro de Acunha, Governour of the Philippine Islands, and Admiral of the Spanish Fleet; a Victory worthy the Foresight of such a Godly Monarch, the Application of those worthy Statesmen that compose his supreme Council, and the Valour of our Nation; not so much on account of the Wealth, and Fertility of those Countries, as for that it took from the Northern Nations all occasion of Sailing in our Seas, and Debauching the new Converted Asiaticks, and the Inhabitants of our Colonies Trading among them. The Celerity with which the Expedition was concluded, does not in the least diminish the Glory of the Event; which, for that very Reason, might rather deserve a place in a more ample Relation. I am sensible of the Dangers I expose my self to; but am no less satisfy’d, that I shall find some to stand by me. The most famous Painters, and Carvers, have generally a great value for Heads, Arms, and other Limbs, which have been drawn to perfection from the Life, by which they compose all the Parts, when they design some excellent Piece. The ignorant in those Arts have no Esteem for such Fragments, being only taken with the entire Statue, or Picture, consisting of all its Limbs, without examining the Defects there may be in each of them. The Relation I undertake to write of these Islands will find the same Esteem, and be expos’d to no less Contempt; for the Judicious, who understand how History is Compil’d, will value this part drawn to the Life; whereas those, who, as they say themselves, Read only to divert the Time, will make little account of it, as being more fond of some Romance, full of Monsterous Events; or of some bulkey Work, bearing the Title of a History, treating of numerous Armies, and mighty Slaughters, and bestowing the Success, not where Providence gave, but where they would have it. This is the Reason why many Things, worthy to be known and preserv’d, remain bury’d in Oblivion; because being left for General Histories, there are only slight Sketches of them Drawn at the Time when they hapned, by those who had a share in them, so that when these Manuscripts are to be made use of, either they are not to be found, or else they reduce the Writer to a necessity of subscribing to whatsoever either Self-Love, or any other Passion dictated to the Authors of such Memoirs, without any possibility of examining into the Truth. To obviate this Inconveniency, in a matter of such moment as that of Ternate, the Capital of the Molucco Islands, I was Commanded to write an Account of it, at a time when they were still living who acted in and directed it: And I have such full Information of all that is requisite for this purpose, that I hope Truth will make amends for my want of Ability. This is as much as I have thought fit to Advertise the Reader, without entering upon the Advantage he will reap by perusing this Relation; because, if he is well affected, all I can say for it will be superfluous; and if otherwise inclin’d, tho’ I endeavour to set him right, he will never conceive it.

Kings of the Moluccos. Among the fourteen most potent Princes, who Lord it over the Archipelago of the Molucco Islands, under the Title of Kings, those of Ternate and Tydore boast of a Divine Original; such Liberty to be vain do Men take upon them, or so much do they ascribe to obscure Antiquity. A Fable of their Original. There is an ancient Tradition among those People, look’d upon as Sacred, That they were once Govern’d by a most Ancient Prince, called Bicocigara, who sailing along the Coast of Rachian, perceiv’d that among some craggy Rocks there were grown up abundance of Rotas, so they call a sort of solid Canes, which, when small, they make use of instead of Ropes. He lik’d them, and order’d they should be cut down, and brought into his Vessel. His Subjects going to fulfil his Orders, and having search’d all the place, return’d to their Master, desiring he would look again, least his Eyes deceiv’d him, for they could meet with no such Canes. Bicocigara, who saw them distinctly from his Boat, was positive with his incredulous People, and order’d them again to be brought; but to decide the matter, went himself Ashore, where immediatly they appeared to them all. He commanded them to be cut down, and as they went about it, Blood ran from the Canes that were cut. Being astonish’d at that Prodigy, he discover’d close to the Roots of them four Eggs, which look’d like a Snakes Eggs, and at the same time heard a Voice, proceeding from the hollow of the Canes cut down, which said, Keep those Eggs; for from them shall come four excellent Governours. He took up those fatal Eggs, with Religious Respect, and carry’d them home, where they were kept in the best place of his House. In a short time, from the four Yolks proceeded four Rational Chickens, being three Men, and one Woman, who afterwards Reign’d, the first of them Bachian, the second in Butan, and the third over the Islands call’d Papuas, lying East from the Moluccos. The Woman was Marry’d to Prince Loloda, who gave Name to the Country of Batochina, not far from the great Boconora. This Fable has gain’d such Reputation, that they honour Bicocigara as a Hero, worship the Rocks, and adore the Eggs. The truth of it is, that the cunning Man, by this prodigious Superstition, Sanctify’d his own Race, and gain’d Kingdoms, and Respect for his four Children. So Greece feign’d, or beleiv’d, that Leda Conceiving of the Adulterous Swan brought forth the Eggs, from which came Castor, Pollux, and Helena. Fortune, when she raises Men to a high pitch, perswades those she designs to Crown, to lay the Foundation of their Majesty on Fables, resembling true Misteries, so to perswade the Multitude that they are somewhat Divine, and to distinguish the Royal Race by a peculiarity even in the Universal Law of being Born into the World. Of this Race thirteen Idolatrous Kings succeeded one another in Tydore, down to Sultan Tydore Bongue, the first that receiv’d the Mahometan Alcoran, tho’ intermix’d with Idolatry, which lasted above Eighty Years, and being confounded among the Precepts of that abominable Sect, bred Divisions, and Distractions among the People. Afterwards, when the Commander Brito arriv’d in that Island, as we shall soon see, he found a Caciz, or Priest, taught them the new Superstition, and that many oppos’d him, on account of the old Fable of the Eggs, which the Persian Morabout could never Decry; so great is the power of Error transmitted from our Fore-Fathers.

King Tydore Bongue’s Successor, was his Son Cachil Boleyfe, no less A false Prophesie.Supersticious than the Father, but in another way. He pretending to the Spirit of Prophecy, gain’d such Reputation, by the Experience and Foresight of his Riper Years, that he came to be Honour’d by his Subjects as a Prophet; or by the least Credulous, as a Person of singular Prudence, so that all Men gave Ear to him, as to an Oracle. Puffed up with this Vanity, he pretended to Fore-tell future Events; which when no particular Persons, or set Times are appointed, is a safe way of Predicting, without Danger of being found False; either because in process of Time something Accidentally happens, that may be adapted to the Prophecy, or in regard, that is always expected which will never come to pass. For this Reason, as in most Countries there are some current Notions of future Expectations, conceiv’d upon trivial Occasions, rather than any Observation of the Stars; therefore Boleyfe us’d to tell those about him, That the time would come, when Iron Men should arrive at Ternate, from the remotest parts of the World, and settle in its Territory; by whose Power the Glory, and Dominion of the Molucco Islands should be far extended.

In the Reign of King John the first, of Portugal, his Son, Prince Henry, First Discoveries. having employ’d several Persons on Discoveries, John Gonzales, and Tristan Vaz found the Island of Madera, in the Year 1419, and others soon after those of the Azores, and Cabo Verde, and ran along the Coast of Guinea and Africk. Afterwards, in the Reigns of King Edward, and Alonso the V. those Discoveries were continu’d, till under King John the II. they proceeded as far as the Cape of Good Hope, and a Hundred Leagues beyond it, along the Coast, call’d Rio del Infante. The honour of this Discovery is due to that famous Seaman Bartholomew Diaz, if we may believe the Manuscript Memoirs of Duarte Resende, for the Historian Barros. This rais’d Emulation in the Spanish Nation, already engag’d in such Voyages, as having Discover’d the Western Islands, call’d Antilles, or Caribbee Islands. This Discovery occasion’d a Controversy about the Right to them, Portugal pretending to, and Spain defending its Possession. After much Contention, the Difference was adjusted by Ruy de Sousa, and Don John his Son, and Arias de Almada, Commission’d by Portugal, who in the Year 1404. agreed with the Spanish Embassador, That, since this inferior Globe, consisting of Earth and Water, answers to the Degrees into which the Celestial Sphere is divided, it should be equally parted between the two Kings, by a Meridian Line drawn through the North and South Poles, and compassing the Land and Sea, so as to cut them into two halves. It was appointed, That the Share to the Eastward should belong to the Crown of Portugal, and the other to the Westward, to that of Castile; and that it should be so mark’d down on the Sea Charts; the Line passing through a fixt Point on the Earth, which was to be the Boundary of both Nations. This was by mutual Consent settled 360 Leagues West from Cabo Verde, and so the Line, or Meridian, fell upon the Country we call Brazil, about the most Westerly part of the Mouth of the River Maranhao, which disembogues there to the Northward. This Line cuts through that Country, and to the Southward runs off beyond the River of Plate, from whence the Spaniards begin to reckon their Degrees of Longitude Westward, and the Portugueses Eastward, 180 belonging to each of them, for as much as the whole Circumference of the Earth contains three hundred and sixty Degrees.

Vasco de Gama discovers India.Vasco de Gama, employ’d by King Emanuel of Portugal, to Discover and Conquer India, prosecuted this Enterprize, look’d upon by Ptolomy, as impracticable; he travers’d the main Ocean, within the Portuguese Division, where he Discover’d, and since the Portuguese Commanders have Conquer’d so many Kingdoms, Nations, and Islands, so distinct in Customs, Manners, Laws, Languages, and Colours. They returning home admir’d what they had seen, and lay’d it down in Maps, but stretching out the Longitude, that is the Distance from West to East, beyond what it really was; thus Craftily providing for the Controversy which might arise upon this Occasion, as it soon happen’d, through the Falshood of the Sea Charts.

Champan
Iunck

Portugueses Pretentions to the Moluccos.By virtue of this practice, and by the Pope’s subsequent Authorizing of it, the Portugueses pretend that the Molucco Islands, and those of Banda, and Amboyna, are within their Bounds, as they were adjudg’d, and settled by experienc’d Sailers, calculating the Extent of that Meridian, and they even stretch it 15 Degrees further. Resende complains, That Magalhaens, whom the English call Magellan, magnify’d the Opinion conceiv’d of the Eastern Seas, when in the Year 1519 he went away Disgusted into Spain. Magellan grew up in the service of Queen Ellenor, then serv’d King Emanuel, and went over into India with that Alonso de Albuquerque, of whose Bravery, and Conduct, we have written Histories, besides what Fame, and Tradition have deliver’d. This Man, not satisfy’d with the first Conquests, sent Antony de Abreu, Francis Serrano, and Ferdinand de Magalhaens from Malaca, with three Ships, to Discover the Molucco Islands. All these three Commanders steer’d several Courses. We shall soon speak of Magellan again. Antony de Abreu arriv’d at Banda, and returning towards Malaca, richly Laden with Spice of that Country, Serrano was parted from him in a Storm, and Shipwrack’d on the Islands of Lucopino, signifying Islands of Tortoises, so call’d from the Plenty and Bigness of those Creatures.

There the Tempest left the Portugueses, only their Lives and Arms sav’d, Serrano cast on the Islands of Lucopine. for their Junck, which is a sort of light Vessel, was Stav’d. The Lucopine Islands were Horrid, by reason of their want of Water, and being Desert; for their Rocks lying under Water, and the many Sea Robbers that frequent them, and always keep Sentinels posted to discover any Sailing by, that they may fall upon, and plunder them. Had not Hunger and Thirst threatned the Portuguses with speedy Death, they had reason to expect it at the Hands of those Pyrats; but that which had been the Destruction of others, at this time prov’d their Safety. Those Miscreants had observ’d the Shipwreck, and Rowing up in a Vessel call’d a Caracoa, as it were to a certain Booty, drew near to those who had so narrowly escap’d perishing in the Sea; but the Malaca Pilots, and Mariners were not ignorant of their design. They acquainted their Captain with the Danger, desiring him to take such Measures as might be for his own, and their Safety. Serrano, like a Man of Valour and Discretion, having view’d the Shore, conceal’d his Men in a hidden Place. The Pyrates landed to pursue them; but as soon as ever they were at some distance from the Shore, the Strangers rush’d out, and possess’d themselves of the Caracoa. The Barbarians thus surpris’d, reflecting on their Mismanagement, and perceiving they were lost Men, gave over the thoughts of Robbing, and had recourse to Intreaties, throwing down their Bows and Arrows, and begging they would not leave His Escape. them in that Island, but rather take pity, and pardon what they had done; and promising, if he would carry them off, to conduct him to another place, where Strangers were well receiv’d, and there was Trade. Serrano granted their Request, and admitted them, and having repair’d the shatter’d Junck, and Embarking together, they directed their Course to the Island of Amboyna, where they were well receiv’d by the People of Rucutelo, who were ancient Enemies to those of Veranula, a Neighboring City of Batochina, with whom those of Rucutelo coming to a Battle, they obtain’d Arrives at Amboyna. the Victory, through the Assistance of the New-comers. The Fame of this Success flew over to the Molucco Islands, at the Time when Boleyse Reign’d in Ternate, and Almanzor in Tydore, who were both not long before Idolaters, and then Mahometans. These two were at Variance about the Limits of their Dominions, and understanding that the Portugueses were at Amboyna, each of them desiring to Strengthen himself against his Enemy, sent Embassadors, and Ships, to invite, and bring over to them those Forreign Soldiers; thinking it also convenient upon other accounts, to enter into Alliance with those People, whose great Actions were then so fresh in the Mouths of all Men. Boleyse was quicker than Almanzor, and sent ten Ships for Serrano, with a Thousand well Arm’d Soldiers for their Defence, the whole under the Command of his Kinsman Cachil Coliba. The Tydore Embassadors return’d from Rucutelo disappointed. It is but a short Cut between Amboyna, and Ternate, and therefore Boylese’s Ships soon return’d with the Portugueses. That King went out attended by his Subjects, to receive the new Guests; all of them concluding, That they went to see the fulfilling of their so long expected Prophecy. Serrano Landed in bright white Armour, and his Companions in the same manner. Settles at Ternate. When the King saw them, he embrac’d every Man, with a Countenance full of Pleasure and Admiration, shedding Tears, and lifting up his Hands to Heaven, bless’d God, and gave hearty Thanks, for that he had granted him to see that which had been Predicted so many Years before. These, said he, my Friends, are the Warriers you have so long wish’d for, on account of my Prophecy. Honour them, and let us all vie in Entertaining them; since the Grandeur of our Country depends on their Arms. The Portugueses, well pleas’d to be thought worthy of a Prophecy, the Beleif whereof was a Politick Invention, conducing to their Reputation, made no less Courteous Returns, expressing their singular Affection. They settle Amity, and Trade in the Moluccos; whence they spread it to the adjacent, and remoter Islands, which it will be now requisite breifly to Describe, for the better Understanding of this History.

Archipelago describ’d. The Eastern Archipelago, not to speak of the Division of those Oriental Parts into Northern, and Southern, Contains so many Islands, that the certain Number of them is not yet known. Hence Modern Authors distribute it into five Divisions, being so many Archipelagos, under the names of Molucco, Moro, Papuas, Celebes, and Amboyna. The Name of the First, in their Language, is Moloc, signifying, the Head, because it is the Chief of all about it. Others will have to be Malucco, which, in Arabick, imports, the Kingdom, as the Principal of them. It Contains five most Remarkable Islands, all of them under the same Meridian, one in sight of another, their whole Extent being 25 Leagues; the Equinoctial crossing them, so that the most Northern of them has but half a Degree of Latitude that way, and the most Southern, one Degree on the other side. Near to them, on the East, is the Island Gilolo, by the Portugueses call’d Batochina de Moro, and by the Moluccos, Alemaera. Among all the others lying about them, call’d also Moluccos, as we say the Canaries, the Terceras, or the Oreades, these are the most Remarkable, for their great Plenty of Spice. The Names of them, beginning with the Northermost, are, Ternate, Tydore, Motiel, Machian, and Bachian; by the ancient Heathens call’d, Cape, Duco, Moutil, Mara, and Seque. This last, which is Bachian, is divided into many Islands, seperated from one another by little Channels, Navigable only in small Vessels; for which reason, as also because it is under one Soveraign, it has but one Name, and all the Molucco Islands are Subject to three Kings. They are divided by small Arms of the Sea, and some Desert little Islands, as also by their Antient Enmity. The Coast both near the Shore, and farther off at Sea, full of Dangerous Shoals; among which there are some Inlets, where the Ships Ride in Safety. The Soil of them all is generally Dry and Spungy, sucking up all the Water, tho’ it Rains never so much, and in many Places the Brooks that run down from the Mountains do not reach the Sea. According to that grave Historian John de Barros, these Islands afford an ill Prospect, and are no way pleasant to behold; because the Sun being always so near them, sometimes passing over towards the Northern, and some times towards the Southern Solstice, the natural Damp of the Earth fills them so full of Trees, and Plants, that it thickens the Air, and hinders the Sight; for by reason of the Earthly Vapours, the Trees are never naked of Leaves; but before one falls another has sprung out; and the same is among Herbs. Others affirm, they are Pleasant to look to, but not Healthy, especially for Strangers, who are all subject to the Disease call’d Berber, which is common in that Country. This Malady swells the Body, and disables the Limbs, but is cur’d with Cloves, the Wine of the Philippine Islands, drank with Ginger, and the use of a certain Herb, known to the Natives; and the Dutch do it with the juyce of Lemmons, a Remedy found by their own Apprehension, and Experience.

Providence has stor’d these Spice-Islands with Bananas, Coco-Nuts, Product of the Moluccos. Oranges, Lemmons, Lignum-Aloes, Sanders, Cinamon, Mace, Mastick-Trees, but above all, with abundance of Cloves, and other Plants; all of them valuable for their Fruit, or delightful for their Ornaments. They have neither Wheat nor Rice; but Nature gave them Industry, and Matter to supply this Defect. They beat a sort of Tree, like the Wild-Palm, with Mallets made of strong Canes; and those dry Trunks, so batter’d, yield an extraordinary white Flower, coming from the bruized Pith; which they mould up in square Pipkins, and this is the Sagu, or Landan, so made into square Loaves, Sagu. like the Castile Sope. This Plant is about Fifteen Foot high, and from the Top of it sprout out some Branches, like those which produce the Tamarinds. These bear a Fruit like the Cypress-Nuts, in which there are certain fine Hairs, which if they touch a Man’s Flesh, burn it. From the tender Branches of the same Plant cut, flows the Liquor which serves them for Drink, putting the Ends of the said Branches so cut into narrow Mouth’d Vessels, which are fill’d in a Night, and the Liquor so gather’d, is like Milk Whipped, and Frothy, which they call Tuac. When Drank new, it is Sweet and very Fat’ning; boil’d like new Wine it tastes like Wine, and after grows sharp as Vinegar. The same Advantage they reap from two other Plants call’d Nipo, and Coco; the last of them yields also Oyl, Boards, and Timber to build Houses. They also Drink another pleasant Liquor, which Nature has shut up in the Hollow of the Canes they call Bambooes, so large that the Knots are a Yard a sunder. They abound in Flesh; but the People are more affected to Fish; notwithstanding Hugo, the Dutchman, says they want both. Providence afforded them no Mines, either of Gold, or Silver; whether it was a Punishment, or Mercy we do not decide. Neither have they found any, of other less precious Metals; but not far from them is Lambuco, an Island abounding in Iron and Steel; whence, and from the Mines of Sula and Butva, the people of the Maluccos bring them, to make their Caampilanes, which are sharp heavy Cymiters, and their Crises, being small Daggers. The Portugueses and Dutch have now furnish’d those Islands with small Fire-Arms, and Cannon of all sorts known among us.

Ternate is the Capital City, and Court of that King, near to which a A burning Mountain in Ternate. dreadful burning Mountain Flames out, about the Equinoxes, because at those Times the Winds blow; which kindle that natural Fire, on the Matter that has fed it so many Ages. The Top of the Mountain, which exhales it, is cold, and not cover’d with Ashes, but with asort of light cloddy Earth, little different from the Pomice-Stone burnt in our Fiery Mountains. Descending thence to the Foot of the Hill, which stretches out like a Piramid, down to the Plain; it is all uncooth, being thick with Trees, whose Verdure is spar’d by the Flames, and the very Fire, Waters and Moistens them with Brooks, which it draws together in the Hollow of the Mountain, and forces it to Sweat, and pour out.

People of Ternate. The Natives Differ from one another, as it were through a Miraculous Bounty of Nature; for it has made the Women Fair and Beautiful, and the Men, of a darker Colour than a Quince; their Hair lank, and many anoint it with sweet Oyls. Their Eyes are large, the Eyebrows long, which, and their Eye-lashes, they colour Black. Of Body they are Strong, much addicted to War, and sloathful for all other Employments. They are long Liv’d; grow grey earlie; and are as Active by Sea as by Land; Officious, and Courteous to Strangers; but when they grow Familiar, Importunate, and Troublesome in their Requests; in their Dealings, all bent upon Interest; Jealous, Fraudulent, and False. They are Poor, and therefore Proud; and to name many Vices in one, Ungrateful.

Religion, Manners, Laws. The Chineses possess’d themselves of these Islands, when they subdu’d all those Eastern Parts; and after them the Javeneses, and the Malayes, and lastly the Persians, and Arabs; which last, together with their Trade, Introduc’d the Mahometan Superstition among the Worship of their Gods; from whom some Families boasted they were descended. Their Laws are Barbarous: They have no limited Number of Wives. The King’s chief Wife, call’d in their Language Putriz, enables and gives the Right of Succession to which her Sons are preferr’d, tho’ younger than those by other Mothers. Theft is not pardon’d, tho’ never so inconsiderable; but Adultery easily. When the Dawn appears, Officers appointed by Law for that purpose, beat a sort of broad, flat Tabors about the Streets, to awake Marry’d People, who they think deserves this Care from the Government, on account of Procreation. Most Crimes are punish’d with Death; in other Respects they Obey the Will, or Tyranny of the Conqueror.

Their Habit. The Men, on their Heads, wear Turkish Turbants of several Colours, with abundance of Feathers on them. The King’s ends above like a Miter, and serves instead of a Crown. For their other Garb they all wear Wastecoats, which they call Cheninas, and Blew, Crimson, Green, and Purple Breeches. Of the same they make their Cloaks, or Mantles, which are short, Soldier-like, thrown over, or knotted on the Shoulder, after the Ancient Roman manner, known by the written Descriptions, Statues, and other Monuments of those Times. The Women are Proud of their Hair; sometimes they spread, and sometimes they plat it, sticking abundance of Flowers among the Ribbons, which hold it together; so that in their Dress, they are not encumber’d with loose Viels, Plumes, or Feathers. All that variety adorns them without Art; they wear Bracelets, Pendants, and Necklaces of Diamonds and Rubies, and great Strings of Pearls, which are not forbid even the meanest, no more than Silks, wherein the Women particularly are Clad after the Persian and Turkish Fashion; and all this costly Attire is the Product of the Neighbouring Lands and Seas. Both Men and Women in their Habit show their natural Haughtiness.

the Habit of y^e Molucco Islands.

Language. The variety of Languages among them is great, for sometimes one Town does not understand the People of the next; the Malaye Tongue is most us’d, as easiest to pronounce. This Diversity of Languages shows, that those Islands were Peopled by several Nations. In those Parts all Antiquity, and the Art of Navigation are ascrib’d to the Chineses. Some affirm, That the People of the Molucco Islands are Descended from the Jaos, who settled there being invited by the Fragrancy of the Spice. They loaded their Vessels with Cloves, till then unknown, and holding on that Trade, carry’d it to the Gulphs of Arabia, and Persia. They Sail’d about all those Countries, transporting Silks, and Porcelance, the Product, and Manufacture of China. The Cloves were by the Persians, and Arabs transmitted to the Greeks, and Romans. Some Roman Emperors had a design of Conquering the East, till they should come to the Spicy Countries; so covetous were they of that Commodity; and believing they all came from China, call’d all those People Chineses. The Spaniards formerly brought them among other Goods from the Red-Sea. The Kings of Egypt for some time possess’d themselves of all the Spice which they Transmitted from the How Cloves were brought into Europe. Hands of the Asiaticks into Europe. This the Romans continu’d, when they reduc’d Egypt into the Form of a Province. Long after, the Genoeses, Transferring the Trade to Theodosia, now Caffa, handed them about to all Parts; and there the Venetians, and other Trading Nations, had their Consuls, and Factors. They afterwards were convey’d over the Caspian Sea and Trabisond; but this Trade fell with the Eastern Empire; and then the Turks carry’d them in Caravans of Camels, and Dromedaries to Berytus, Aleppo, Damascus, and several Ports on the Mediterranean. The Sultans of Egypt brought them back to the Red-Sea, and thence to Alexandria, down the Nile. The Portugueses having Conquer’d the East-Indies, took them from Egypt, and brought them in their Fleets by the Cape of Good Hope, sinking and taking all Ships that attempted to carry any to Grand Cayro. For that purpose they kept Squadrons on the Coasts of Arabia and Persia, and at Cape Guardafu. By this means the Trade of Egypt was surpress’d, and all the Spice brought on the Kings account to India, and thence taking a prodigious compass, to Lisbon. He who is Master at Sea will be possess’d of this Wealth; by which, and other Commodities, we see that is made good, which some write Themistocles was wont to say, That he has all things who has the Sea.

The Kings, Boleyfe, of Ternate, and Almanzor, of Tydore, contended about Entertaining Serrano, and each of them courted him to build a Fort in his Island. It is well worth Observation, To see how eagerly these Kings sought after, and begg’d for that which they were soon after to be averse to. They writ about it to the King of Portugal; but Antony de Miranda coming to the Moluccos, besides a wooden Fort, or House he built at Talangame, erected another at Machian, an Island belonging to the two Kings, by which means he satisfy’d the Request of both. Soon after Cachil Laudin, King of Bachian, made Application to Don Tristan de Meneses, on the same account. Don Tristan was come to the Moluccos to Load Spice, and with a design to carry away Francis Serrano, and to induce Boleyfe to consent to it, he perswaded him, it was requisite that Serrano should go to Portugal, to prevail upon King Emanuel to order the Fort he desir’d, to be built upon Ternate, and not elsewhere. Boleyfe approv’d of his design, and to that end, sent Cachilato, as his Embassador, with Serrano. Don Tristan set out, and his Ships being dispers’d in a Storm, was oblig’d to return to the Moluccos, and to Winter in the Wooden House above mention’d; but as soon as the Monson blew, he put to Sea again, and touching at Bachian was inform’d, That they had kill’d some Portugueses, of Simon Correa’s Vessel in that Island. This troubled him, but he dissembled it, and proceeding on his Voyage, return’d to Malaca, by the way of Amboyna.

Brito at the Molucco’s. Antony de Brito, appointed by the Governour of India to succeed Serrano in that Post, Sail’d from Cape Sincapura, through the Streights of Sabam, with 300 Men, and some experienc’d Commanders. He touch’d at Tuban, a City in the Island of Jaua, and went over to another, call’d Agazim, a Mart in those Parts, opposite to the Island Madura. Its nearness inviting him, he sent a Roving Vessel thither to get some Information what Course he was to Steer. Seventeen Men there were in the Vessel Landed on the Coast, and went up along the side of a River, cover’d with beautiful Trees, whose Fruit deceiv’d the Sailers; for they attracted with the pleasant sight, and unexpected satisfaction, forgot to secure their Vessel. The Natives observing the Opportunity, first took the Vessel, and then all the Men, whose Ransom prov’d afterwards difficult, tho’ the Lord of the City favour’d it. Brito sail’d directly for the Moluccos, and touching at Bachian, sent Simon de Abreu in all haste to burn a Village, and kill all the Inhabitants, in Revenge for Simon Correa’s Companions slain there; that King Laudin might understand, they should not escape unpunish’d, who wrong’d the Portuguese, and that since his Island was the first that took up Arms King of Ternate Dies. against them, it should also be the first that felt their Vengeance. He executed his severity without any Loss, tho’ that King did not forget the Obligation he laid on him. Brito went on to Tydore, and was Inform’d by Almanzor of the Disorders there were at Ternate, because Boleyfe was dead, and it was suppos’d he had been Poyson’d. He being near his Death order’d, That during the Minority of his eldest Son Cachil Bohat, or Boyano, the Queen his Wife, who was Daughter to the King of Tydore, should Govern; and that Cachil Daroes, Natural Son to the said Boleyfe, should Act jointly with her. The Queen who was Crafty, suspecting that her Father Almanzor might under that colour aim st some Advantage, to the Detriment of her Son, call’d her Subjects together and told them, That it was enough for her to take care of her Sons Education; and therefore she laid the greatest stress of Government on Cachil Daroes.

The King, and the Governour Daroes, expected the Commander Antony Brito, as the Kingdoms, and the young Kings Protector. They went out to A Fort Built at Ternate. meet him in a Fleet of Carcoas, with the Noise of that Barbarous Musick of Brass Basons, and Tabors. He Landed, shewing State, and appearing worthy of that Applause; visited the Queen, the King, and his Brothers; and after the Ceremony of Condoling the Death of Boleyfe, ordering Affairs in Conjunction with Daroes, he approv’d of that Form of Government, and upon all occasions Defended his Province against that of Tydore. To do this with the greatest Security, he pitch’d upon a proper spot of Ground, according to the Rules of Fortification, which were not then very perfect, no more than Military Discipline. The Foundation being dug, Brito, in the presence of the King, and all the People, laid the first Stone of the new Fort, with his own Hand. This happen’d on Midsummer Day, and therefore he gave the Fort the Name of St. John Baptist; and tho’ it was built for the Defence of Ternate, yet in Brito’s mind it was Dedicated to the service of the Gospel, and its Ministers. He us’d endeavours to send away the Caeiz he found there spreading of Mahomet’s false Doctrine, as an Obstacle to the True; but the War which is there always settled and natural against Tydore, obstructed these Designs; tho’ at the same time the Troubles of those two Revengeful Nations increas’d the Revenues of Portugal, by contributing of their Spice: and the desire of Superiority brought them into Subjection. However, in Portugal Brito had a Successor appointed him, and he was inform’d, That the other was already sailing for the Moluccos; and there was need enough of them both, and of doubling their Forces; because Spain still insisted upon taking those Countries as its Right, and Brito began to be hated, on account of his offering Violence to the Royal Family.

At the same time Magellan having Sail’d 600 Leagues towards Malaca, Magellan goes over to Spain. was in certain Islands, whence he corresponded with Serrano; who having thriv’d so well in Ternate, with Boleyfe, sent his Friend word what Kindness, and Wealth he had receiv’d from him; advising him to return to his Company. Magellan consenting, resolv’d to go to the Moluccos; but in case his Services were not Rewarded in Portugal, as he expected, he would take the way directly for Ternate, under whose King Serrano grew so Rich in Nine Years. He consider’d, that since the Moluccos were 600 Leagues East from Malaca, which make 30 Degrees, little more or less, they were out of the Portuguese Limits, according to the antient Sea Chart. Returning to Portugal, he found no Favour, but thought himself wrong’d, and resenting it, went away into Castile, carrying with him a Planisphere, drawn by Peter Reynel; by which, and the Correspondence he had held with Serrano, he perswaded the Emperor, Charles V. that the Molucco Islands belong’d to him. It is reported, That he Confirm’d his Opinion with Writings, and the Authority of Ruy Faleyro, a Portuguese Judiciary Astrologer, and much more with Serrano’s.

Hereupon the Emperor gave him the Command of a Squadron, with which he sail’d from Sanlucar, on the 21st. of September, 1519. He stay’d Sets out on his Discovery. four days at the Canaries, where a Caravel overtook him, with private Intelligence, that his Captains went with a Design not to Obey him particularly John Cartagena, who had the same Commission as Magellan. He bravely seem’d to take no notice, and sailing away with a fair Wind, being pass’d Rio de Janeyro, in the Province of Santa Cruz, commonly call’d Brazil, the Sea growing very cold, and much more the River of Plate, which is in 35 Degrees of South Latitude, the Captains question’d him about the Voyage, since they could nor find the Cape, or Streight, they went in search of. He answer’d, as to Men that were entirely Subordinate to his Direction and Authority, That they must go on, for he knew what he was about, and the Coasts of Norway and Ireland were in a greater Latitude, and yet Ships sailed along them. These Contests lasted almost all the Voyage, and increas’d with the cold and dreadful Winds, and the hideous sight of the Mountains of Snow and Ice, grown old, which they met in the Latitude of 52 and 53 Degrees. They magnify’d these Difficulties, alledging, That it requir’d six, or seven Months to come from Castile, cross the Line, and run all along the Coast of Brazil, through such diversity of Climates, in each of which the Weather vary’d. That this was throwing away Men and Ships, which were more valuable than all the Cloves in the Molucco Islands.

The Astrologer, Ruy Faleyro, being Distracted, was left in the Mad-House He discovers the Streight of his Name. at Sevil; and in his Place went Andrew de San Martin, to whom Magellan gave Ear, as to what he said of the Weather; but not in other Cases, as some lay to his Charge, and with such Moderation and Integrity, as becomes Christian Piety. Nor is it to be believ’d, That Magellan should consult such a Deceitful a Science as Judiciary Astrology, upon such difficult Points, or should prefer it before Astronomy, amidst such dreadful Dangers. The Hardships became intollerable; and Discord so far prevail’d with the Captains, John de Cartagena, Gaspar Quesada, and Lewis de Mendoza, that they resolved either to Kill, or Secure Magellan. This Conspiracy coming to his Ears, as he lay at the Mouth of the River of St. Julian, having contriv’d what was to be done, as John de Barros writes, he caus’d Lewis de Mendoza to be Stab’d, which was done by Gonzalo de Espinosa. Next Gaspar de Quesada was Quarter’d Alive; and a Servant of his, who was concern’d, had his Pardon. Cartagena he condemned to a lingering Death, leaving him in that Desert Country, with a Clergy Man, guilty of the same Crime, which was High Treason against their King. So say the Portuguese Histories; but the Spanish inform us, That they were privately proceeded against, and the Judgment was Read to them. This done he made some Speeches to Justify the Fact, and Comfort his Companions. Cartagena, and the Clergy-Man, who were left with some Provisions, got away a few days after, in one of the Ships of the same Squadron, which return’d to Spain. Magellan overcoming incredible Difficulties, found the Streight, and Passage, which makes the Communication between the two Seas, and preserves his Name to this Day. He there took Giants above fifteen Spans high, who wanting raw Flesh, which they us’d to feed on, soon Dy’d; then he passed the Streight successfully. But tho’ he got under the Equinoctial, either by reason of the Currents, or the Faultiness of the Sea Charts, he Sail’d round about, and almost in sight of the Molucco Islands, yet could never come at them. He Touch’d at others, where he was oblig’d to Fight; and went on to those of Zebu, or the Manilas. At this same time his Friend Serrano was sailing for India, and tho’ it happen’d in several Places, yet they both Dy’d on the same Day, and much after the same Manner.

It would be superfluous to dilate upon the Story of Magellan, his tedious Navigation, and the many Difficulties he met with, before and after he pass’d through his Streight into the Pacifick, or South-Sea; his Arrival at the Island of Zebu, and perswading the Idolatrous King to embrace the Christian Faith, and the Battles he fought on his account, with his Enemies; for besides that these things are Related by very good Authors who Treat of the Discovery of the Molucco Islands, which was the main Object of his desperate Undertaking, we must be brief in repeating them, to show how eager several Princes, and Nations were for these Islands, and the Notion they had of what great Consequence they would be to them.

The King of Zebu was Baptiz’d, rather to make his Advantage of the Spanish Arms, than out of any Zeal, or that he knew the Faith he Embrac’d. He took the Name of Ferdinand in Baptism, to flatter his Godfather, who He is Murder’d with others. was Ferdinand Magalhaens, himself. After obtaining several Victories by his Assistance, thinking he could shake off the second Yoke he expected those Strangers might lay on him, he turn’d against them. He contriv’d an Entertainment, in Honour of Magellan and Thirty five Spaniards being at it, he fell upon them at a time appointed, with a Multitude of Barbarians, and confounding the Feast, murder’d his Guests, who handled their Arms to defend themselves, which only serv’d to render their Deaths more Honourable. The rest of the Spaniards, who escap’d because they were at Sea, for their better Government under that Misfortune, presently chose Barbosa, a Kinsman of Magalhaens, for their General, and Lewis Alfonso, a Portuguese to be Captain of the Ship, call’d the Victory. The perfidious King, thinking to conceal his Treachery and Apostacy, as if it were possible to keep it secret, sent to invite Barbosa, saying he would deliver him the Jewel he had promis’d for the King of Spain. John Serrano, thinking it a Rashness, to trust a Man again, whose Hands were still Bloody with the late Execution, disswaded Barbosa from accepting of the Invitation; but was not regarded. Barbosa went with the other Guests, and Serrano himself, who, to show it was not Fear that mov’d him to give such Advice, was the first that got into the Boat. They were conducted into a Wood of Palm-Trees, where the King expected them, with a small Retinue, the Tables being spread in the Shade, amidst the Musick of Bag-Pipes. When they were seated, and began to Eat, a great number of Archers that lay in Ambush, rush’d out, and shot our Men. They saved Serrano, whom they lov’d, not out of Kindness, for they show’d him bound to those that were at Sea, demanding for his Ransom, two Brass Guns, and then he told them, the Slaughter that had been made. Our Men, not trusting to them, any longer, set Sail, and did not only see the Indians carry Serrano back to their Town, but soon after heard mighty Shouts in it; and it was afterwards known that they gave them when they killed Serrano, and ran to throw down a great Cross, set up before the New-Church, which they could not perform. The Spaniards wanting Men, burnt the Ships, call’d the Conception, and chose John Caravallo for their General, and Gonzalo Gomez de Espinosa, Captain of the Ship the Victory. They came to Borneo, on the Coast whereof they found those Peoples Fleet of Carcoas, Painted, and the Prows of them like Serpents Heads gilt.

The Soldiers appear’d well Arm’d, who having spy’d our Ship, acquainted Soldiers of Borneo, and Reception of Spaniards. their King with it. He order’d 2000 of his Guard to go out, and receive them, before they reach’d the City. These Men came brandishing their Bows and poison’d Arrows, Trunks, Cymitars, and Sheilds, and wore Breast-plates made of Tortois Shells, and encompass’d an Arm’d Elephant, on whose Back there was a wooden Castle. When the Spaniards came up the Elephant stoop’d down, and six arm’d Men coming out of the Castle, put Gonzalo Gomez de Espinosa, who was then General, into it. Thus attended, he went to Visit the King, in whose Presence his Secretary spoke to him through a Trunk, and Espinosa gave him an Account of the King of Zebu’s Perfidiousness. All condol’d the Accident, and our Men taking Leave Sail’d away for the Molucco Islands, being reliev’d with what they wanted, and furnish’d with able Pilots.

Not far from Borneo, they met 150 Sail, whereof they took two Junks, Spaniards at Tydore. in which they found an Hundred Men, five Women, a Son of the King of Luzon, and an Infant two Months Old. This they thought would be a sufficient Ransom to recover their Companions; so they let go the Prince upon his Parole, he promising to restore them the Captive Spaniards. They had some Storms; but arriv’d at Tydore, on the 8th of November 1521. When Almanzor heard the salute of the Canon, he sent to enquire what People they were, and presently after he came to our Ships in a little Boat. His Shirt appear’d woven with Gold and Silk, a white Cloth which trail’d being girt over it. About his Head a fine Veil of several Colours, made like a Persian Miter: Being Aboard the Commodore, the Relations of that Voyage say, he stopp’d his Nose with his Fingers, either at the Smell of our Meat, or of the Ship. Mahometanism was newly come into his Island, and most of his Subjects, especially those Inhabiting the Mountains, ador’d Idols. He bid our Men wellcome, gave them good Words, and afterwards was as kind in his Actions; and being inform’d of their past Sufferings, gave them leave to load Cloves. They presented him with a Chair of Crimson Velvet, a Robe of Yellow Velvet, a great Loose Coat of false Cloth of Gold, a piece of Yellow Damask, four Yards of Scarlet Cloth; Handkercheifs, and Towles, wrought with Silk, and Gold; Drinking-Glasses, Glass Beads, Looking-Glasses, Knives, Scizers, and Combs. They gave his Son another parcel of Gifts, and a Cap, and did the like by his Cachiles and Sangiacks. When they ask’d the Kings leave in the Emperors Name to Trade, he granted it, adding they should kill any that offer’d to hinder them. He seriously view’d his Majesty’s Picture and Arms on the Standard, and desired to see our Coin. And pretending to be an Astrologer, or Soothsayer, or as others say, having Dreamt, or Guess’d it, or being told it by Chinese Priests, he said, He knew the Christians were to come to his Lands for Spice; and desired that they would not leave him. Ally with that King. They treated about an Alliance, and when they were agreed, two Tydores brought something in their Hands to the Ships, which they afterwards understood was the Alcoran, tho’ at first they did not, because cover’d with Silks, and Strings. Almanzor lay’d his Hands on it, and then on his Head, and Breast; and this was the Ceremony of his Swearing Friendship, and Fealty to the Crown of Castile, and that he would allow them Cloves, and all Commerce for ever. Then the General Espinosa, in the Emperor’s Name, before an Image of the blessed Virgin, swore to protect them both in Peace and War, and presented King Almanzor with Thirty Indians he had taken Prisoners. Soon after, as some Authors affirm, Corala, Prince of Ternate, Nephew to Almanzor, came to Tydore to swear Fealty in like manner, as did Luzuf, King of Gilolo, of whom it is Written, That he had Six Hundred Sons, and that Almanzor had Two Hundred Wives. These Kings Writ to the Emperor; ratifying their Fealty, and Sebastian del Cano sail’d away in the Ship, the Victory, by the way the Portugueses use, with the Letters and Instruments; the General Espinosa returning towards Panama, for Castilla del Oro on the Continent of America, to pass thence to Spain.

At this time the new Governor, Don Garcia Henriquez, was under Sail, to succeed Antony Brito, and being come to Banda, waited for the Monson to carry him to Ternate. Monson is the Name by which the Portuguese Monson, what it is. call the Wind, which blows six Months to carry them to India, and then six Months again to bring them back. There he furnished himself with all Necessaries for the Fort built by Brito. He had need so to do, for he received Advice, That Spanish Ships were sailing thro’ the Bays, and openest Parts of the Archipelago. He sent to discover them, by the Industry of his Soldiers, and being receiv’d at Ternate, view’d the Fort, and observ’d the posture of the Government. He proposed a Peace with Cachil Almanzor, King of Tydore. We shall have frequent Occasion to repeat these Words Cachil and Sangiack. Cachil is perhaps deriv’d from Katil, which in Arabick Cachil and Sangiack, their significations. is the same as among us, a Valiant Soldier. In the Molucco Islands they Honour their Nobility with this Title, which is something more than Don in Spain. The Title of Sangiack, which answers to that of Duke, or Earl, might come from Senchaq; which in the Turkish Language, imports a Commander: To conclude this Peace, he thought it convenient to secure the Royal Family; which he accordingly executed, and though he colour’d it with fair Pretexts, they plainly perceived this was an Introduction towards Oppressing them, and show’d a mistrust. We may safely affirm, This was the first Distaste which, as being a notorious Wrong, Portugueses, why hated. disturb’d that Nation, and from that time they grew Cold, and Jealous, thinking themselves oblig’d to seek Revenge; and this Action was the occasion of all the ensuing Slaughters, as we often see a great Fire rise from one small Spark.

Cachil Daroes endeavour’d to obstruct this Peace, as Tutor, and Governor, fearing the Trade of Cloves would be transferr’d to Tydore, to the Destruction of the Infant King’s Dominions. But notwithstanding this Opposition, the Peace was concluded, upon certain Conditions, as, That the King of Tydore should deliver a Ship he had taken, the Canon, and some More of their Outrages. runaway Portuguese. Almanzor, who stood in need of a Peace, and the Friendship of the Portuguese, to gain the Affection of Cachil Daroes, propos’d to Marry him to one of his Daughters. Don Garcia believing that this Union among them would produce that of their Forces, and less Submission to the Portuguese’s Dominion, to obstruct this dangerous Alliance, sent to the King of Tydore to borrow the Canon. That King excus’d himself, alledging, that he had lent it a few days before, to the King of Bachian. Cachil Daroes complying with him, agreed to all the Articles. Don Garcia being dissatisfy’d, waited an opportunity to break all that Contrivance, and be Reveng’d. Almanzor fell Sick, and desir’d Don Garcia to send him a Physician; who sent an Apothecary, and he either not understanding Physick, or, as was believ’d, by order of Don Garcia, kill’d the Patient. Manifest tokens of Poyson afterwards appear’d. The Funeral was order’d, and at the same time the Commander, Don Garcia, appear’d in the Morning, in a parcel of Carcoas, before Tydore. He sent Baldaya, the Clerk of the Fort, to demand the Canon, threatning War, in case of denial. The Regents excusing themselves at that time, with just Reasons, and particularly the Funeral Solemnity, when they were in the Height of the Ceremony of Burying their King, they heard the Shouts of Don Garcia’s Men giving the Assault. The Portuguese enter’d the City, firing the Houses, plundering and killing, which oblig’d the Tydores to abandon their King’s Body, and fly to the Mountains. During their Absence, Don Garcia seized the Canon, and carry’d it away to Ternate. Those who had fled return’d, with some Apprehension, and found the City ruin’d hideous, and almost reduc’d to Ashes; but recovering from their Fright; they proclaim’d Cachil Raxamira, the Son of Almanzor, King. They committed the Education of him to Cachil Rade, his Kinsman, the War being declared between Ternate and the New King of Tydore, who was seasonably supported by the Spaniards that came to his Country.

Spanish Ship first round the World. The Ship Victory returning into Spain, with the Letters from the King of the Molucco Islands, which the Emperor receiv’d, he was more fully convinc’d, that these Islands were within his Limits. Their Wealth, and his Right to them were so lively represented to him, that he order’d another Squadron of four Ships, two Galloons, and an Advice Boat to be made ready at Corunna, to be Commanded by the Commendary Fray Garcia de Loaysa, a Gentleman of Biscay, and under him, as Vice-Admiral, Sebastian del Cano, and the Captains Don Rodrigo de Acunna, James de Vera, &c. They Sail’d on the Eve of St. James the Apostle, 1525, touch’d at Gomera, and running along the Coast of Guinea, could not make Cape St. Augustine for want of Wind. By reason of this Calm, all agreeing to it, he alter’d his Course to the Cape of Good Hope. A Portuguese Ship guided them to

Another Squadron passes Magellans Streights. the Island of St. Matthew, which is Desert, and full of lofty Orange Trees, where they saw Hens, the Track of wild Boars, and some Portuguese Words carv’d on Trees, which shew’d they had pass’d that way. The Ships leaving them, they pass’d Cape St. Augustine, making for the Streights of Magellan. In this Course they endur’d Storms, and Err’d in their Accounts. Sebastian del Cano struck on a Shoal, and was reliev’d. The Galloons and Advice Boat made New Spain. The Admiral, by the Advice of Cano, pass’d the Equinoctial, upon information, That in 12 Degrees of South Latitude, he would find certain Islands that were rich in Gold and Silver. All the Men sickn’d, the Admiral, and Cano dy’d, with some others. The remains of the Squadron choosing Toribio de Salazar for their Commander, return’d under the Line; but he dy’d at the Islands de las Velas, now call’d Ladrones, or of Thieves. After some Strife, Martin Iniguez, and Ferdinand de Bustamante succeeded him, and agree’d to Command by turns. Thus divided they came in sight of Mindanao, and thence to the Molucco Islands, took in some Refreshment at Cope, a Town of the Island Moratay, whence they went on to Camafo, of Morotoja, whose Sangiack is Subject to the King of Tydore.

War betwixt Spaniards and Portugueses. They proceeded through the Gulph of Camafo, where they were Inform’d by the Ship of Don George de Meneses, who had been forc’d thither by the Currents, that the Portugueses held the Fort of Ternate, and Don Garcia made War on Tydore. Iniguez, and Bustamante offer’d them the Assistance of Spain, by which, coming so opportunely, they gain’d the Affections of them all, and furnished themselves with Necessaries. Don Garcia being already provided against the new Enemy, gather’d some Carcoas, and tho’ he could not perswade Daroes, the Tutor, to go along with him, oppos’d the Spaniards. First the Portuguese sent an Admonition, wherein he offer’d them Peace, and Entertainment, as Subjects to the Emperor, who was so near Ally’d to the King of Portugal; protesting, That the Molucco Islands were within his Limits. This avail’d nothing, and Daroes Embarking in 12 Carcoas, with Emanuel Falcao, sent that Protestation in Writing, and in case it was Rejected, to declare War. The Spanish Commander receiv’d the Lawyer that was to make the Protestation, with much Civility Portuguese and Spanish War. and Respect, and answer’d, That the Molucco Islands belong’d to the Crown of Castile, and therefore he, in the Emperors Name, required Don Garcia not to break the Peace establish’d between their Kings. After all they were oblig’d to have recourse to Arms. Iniguez Landed on Tydore, strengthen’d the Works, and furnish’d them with Canon. The Portuguese follow’d, and both sides Firing, there was a great Slaughter; but those of Ternate retir’d so disorderly, that the Tydores remain’d Victors. However neither the Protestations, nor the War ceas’d, the Spaniards urging Magellan’s Discovery, and the Portuguese, Serrano’s, and Brito’s. The Tydores and Spaniards took some Carcoas belonging to Gilolo, in which they kill’d a Portuguese, and some Ternates, as also a Champan Laden with Provisions for Talangame.

In the Philippine Islands they give the Name of Carcoas to a sort of Carcoas, what sort of Vessels, and others. Vessels that use Oars, open, and bigger than our Barks, and are Steer’d by two Rudders, the one ahead, and the other astern. The Ternates call’d them Janguas, which differ from the Carcoas only in having two Half-Moons of Wood, Painted, or Guilt, rising above the Keel at the Head and Poop. About 100 Men Row in each of them, to the sound of a Tabor, and a Bell. They carry twenty Soldiers, and six Musketiers. The rest are employ’d about four or five little Brass Guns. Both the Men that Row, and the Soldiers are Arm’d with Campilanes, that is Cymiters, and Shields, and abundance of Calabays, and Sagus, being long Canes burnt in the Fire, to harden them; which they throw, without tacking, as the Moors do their Darts. Their way of Fighting is to come within Gun-shot, and as soon as they have Fir’d, both sides fly with all speed, till they have Loaded again, and then return to the same Post. They set three Men to each Gun, the one Levels, the other Charges, and the third Fires it. This is the way among the Islanders; for when they have to do with Europeans, our Example has Improv’d them in the Art of War. But in their Carcoas they are always expos’d to be kill’d by our Cannon, because they have no Fights to cover them; and the same is in the Champanes, which differ but little from the others.

The Victory we have spoken of Encourag’d the Tydores, and with the Assistance of the Spaniards, they Arm’d, and falling upon Gaca, a Town of Ternate, Plunder’d and Burnt it; but at their Return, they met with Martin Correa, whom they Fought, plying their Carcoas, the Success remaining doubtful. Whilst this War was at the hottest, Don George de Meneses Don George de Meneses at Ternate. came from the Papuas to Ternate, to whom Don Garcia presently resign’d the Post, tho’ the Hostilities continu’d, with Burning and Slaughter on both sides, which it was expected would be greater when the Portuguese Succours came from Malaca, and the Castilian from Spain. The new Portuguese Commander in Chief, and Martin Inniguez came to a Conference, and with much Courtesy, and desire of Peace, concluded a Truce, which lasted not long, tho’ not on account of the main cause.

There were many Battles between the Spanish and Portuguese Nations, from Gilolo and other adjacent Islands, about the Possession of the Moluccos, and they were under several Commanders, the Event whereof we shall see in its Place. Therefore, and because others have Treated of them Copeously, they shall be now pass’d by, that we may return to the Actions of those Kings, which ought to be distinctly deliver’d now at the Beginning, for the better Understanding of the Causes why they came to be Lost.

King of Tydore makes Peace. The King of Tydore was less Supported by Spain than he had been before, and was therefore oblig’d to sue for Peace, laying some Burden of Tribute, on his own Revenue proceeding from the Cloves. He also promis’d never to admit of any Spanish Succours; besides some other Conditions, which put an end to the Wars for a time.

We have already observ’d, That Cachil Boleyfe, King of Ternate, left three lawful Sons, viz. Cachil Bayano, Cachil Dayalo, and Cachil Tabarija. The Eldest of them was not above six Years of Age; besides whom there Daroes, and the Queen govern Ternate. were seven Bastards, the Eldest of them, Cachil Daroes, was Governor of the Kingdom, in Conjunction with the Queen. When Brito, in the Year 1521, Built the Fort, to secure the Subjection of the Island, tho’ he had another Pretence for it, he took the Infant King, and the Queen his Mother, into it. She generously resenting this Violence, as not able to endure, that they should oppose the course of her Government, which she manag’d, together with her Step-Son, loudly Complain’d, and Threatned, as a Queen, and as a Mother. She wanted no Conveniencies for the Education of the Children; but there being Wrong disguiz’d among all that seeming Kindness, neither her Family, nor the Nurse, nor the Perswasions of Great Persons, could appease her Anger. The Natives observ’d the Difference of the Portuguese Domination, and that since their building of that Fort, they us’d intolerable Rigor, and consequently began to grow cold in their Affection, Portuguese Insolent. and to slacken in their Respect; especially when they perceiv’d that Brito’s Successor continu’d to keep the Royal Family under Oppression. The young King was bred up in the Fort, till he was of Age to enter upon the Government of his Kingdom; and being 18 years old, soon dy’d, not without the usual suspition of Poison, but it was affirm’d to be given by private order of Cachil Daroes. O the wonderful Effects of the Desire of Rule!

Sultan Bayano being Dead, order was taken that the People should immediatly Swear Cachil Dayalo; but Don George found also means to get him into the Fort; the Mother demanding him, as fearing his Death, by the example of the Elder. Don George condescended, not so much in compliance They Insult the Natives. to her Fears, as to oblige Cachil Daroes, with whose Government he was well-satisfy’d; and it was he that had interven’d in, and advis’d that way of Breeding the Princes. Soon after there happen’d an Accident, which broke off their good Intelligence; for Daroes grew jealous of the Commander in chiefs Behaviour, observing him much to favour Cachil Bayaco, a Man of note, whose Friendship he was suspicious of, and he with reason fear’d, that the Commander would in time value Bayaco more than him. This well grounded Fear grew up in his Breast, till it turn’d to down right Hatred, and he contriv’d to kill Don George. The Design could not be carry’d on so private, as to be conceal’d from him, and he to disappoint it, retir’d into the Fort. Daroes puffed up with the Applause of the People, sent immediatly to require him to deliver up Bayaco, to try him upon some Complaints he had against him, being his Judge, as Governour, and oblig’d to do Justice. Don George was desirous to save Cachil Bayaco, and to that purpose assembled the Alcayde, and other Officers. Some said he ought to deliver him, others advis’d to appease Daroes by fair means. Bayaco, who hated him so mortally, that he woul’d chuse any sort of Death, rather than fall into his Hands, being lock’d up in a Room of the Fort, understood that his Case was doubtful, for they Consulted without any great Privacy. This made him Resolve what to do, and going to a high Window, he threw himself out with such Fury, that he beat himself to Pieces. Don George was troubl’d at the Accident, and thought himself oblig’d to Revenge it; which he began upon finding a Sow kill’d, either to spight him, or because the Neighbours were Mahometans, and had done it as she graz’d, or went about the Courts of the Fort. This was a rediculous Occasion, but of Moment enough among those People; Enquiry was made who had kill’d her, and it appear’d, or Don George would have it, that the Fault belong’d to Cachil Baydua, a near Kinsman to Cachil Daroes, very Learned, and Zealous in the Law of Mahomet, as also a Caciz, or Priest, and of great Authority in the Kingdom. He was seiz’d by Don George, and carry’d into the Fort, without regard to the publick Peace. Daroes, in a great Consternation, went with the chief Men of the Kingdom, to desire he would release that Sacred Person. Whilst they were discoursing this Point, Peter Fernandez, a mean Fellow, Servant to the Commander in Chief, by his Masters Order, or of his own Accord, in the Presence of them all, went up to Cachil Baydua, and rubb’d his Mouth, Rudeness. and Face with a fat Collop of the same Sow, neither the Opposition he made, nor his Complaints to God, and the Commander in Chief availing him; but on the contrary, the Portugueses laugh’d out aloud, approving the Action by their Applause. Daroes on his part, cast himself on the Ground, and Weeping, prevail’d to have Baydua restor’d to him, whom, Don George being satisfy’d, or appeas’d, and taking Security, sent to his House. Daroes attended him, and all the Prime Men; and Baydua, by Reason it is an Abomination among them to touch Swines-Flesh, presently used their Purifications; and the more to express his Concern, voluntarily left the Island for some Years, and travel’d about all the others in the Neighbourhood, preaching, and magnifying the Affront offer’d to one of Mahomets Priests, thus stirring up the Natives, and perswading them to Unite in Defence of their Honour.

This Accident, which as a Disgrace to their Religion, exasperated the People, was seconded by another much worse, which quite render’d the Portugueses Odious. The contrary Winds kept back the Trading Galeon, Portugueses become odious for Rapine, &c. that us’d to carry the Soldiers Pay, and their Wants increasing, they began to seek Relief, breaking into the Natives Shops, and Store-Houses, and taking away their Provisions, without Paying for them. Daroes, offended at it, order’d, That no Provisions should be brought into the City to sell, and that the Shops which dealt in them, should be shut up. This was accordingly done, and reduc’d those in the Fort to such Distress, that the Soldiers mutinying, rail’d at their own Commander, and the Governour of India, demanding Relief with their Arms in their Hands. Don George being hard press’d, and blaming the Avarice of his Country Men, sent some Carcoas with Soldiers, under the Command of Gomez Ariaz, to barter Goods in the adjacent Islands for Provisions. They Landed on an Island near by, where, being desperate with Hunger, they Plunder’d the Town of Tabona, the Inhabitants whereof, no longer able to endure such Affronts, and Robberies, running to Arms, fell upon them, and kill’d the greatest Number, and most of the rest being Wounded, were Disarm’d. They embark’d for Ternate, where their Wounds and Nakedness spoke what had befallen them, as much as their Words. Don George, who, besides his being naturally Passionate, was now quite enrag’d, threatned Daroes, That if he did not deliver up the principal Actors in this Mischief, he would seek his Revenge other ways. He was obey’d, and tho’ Cachil Daroes knew that all the Fault belong’d to the Portugueses, yet he deliver’d up the Governor of Tabona, and two other Chief Men of the Place, to Don George, thinking he would be satisfy’d with keeping them Prisoners for Barbarous Cruelty. some Days. As soon as they were brought before him, he order’d the Hands of the two to be cut off, and that they should be then set at liberty. The Governors Punishment was answerable to the Cruelty of him that was his Judge; they ty’d his Hands behind his Back, and exposing him on the Shore, set two fierce Woolf-Dogs upon him, he having no way to withstand their Fury, made several vain attempts to slip aside from them, and endeavour’d to defend himself with what little Power was left him in those Limbs that were not Bound. The Multitude with Horror beheld the Spectacle, touch’d with Compassion, and admiring the Inhumanity of the Punishment. The wretched Man attempted to Fly, but perceiving that the arm’d Soldiers, had shut up every way, on the Land side, he cast himself into the Sea, the only Refuge accidentally left him, to seek some uncertain Hope of Safety. However the Dogs being already blooded, left him not; but barking and howling, bit and tore him, tho’ he still swam with his Legs. At last, being desperate, and almost in the last Agony, he took a horrid Resolution and fell upon those fierce Creatures with his Teeth; such was the Effect of Pain and Despair. Thus the unhappy Man took hold of one of the Dogs by the Ear, and holding fast, sunk with him to the Bottom. The like Barbarity had never before been seen in any of those Countries to which the Portugueses Traded; and by it they lost the Reputation they had before gain’d, to their great Applause, that they inflicted Punishments, as it were by Compulsion, and Oblig’d to it, and that with Mildness, and Compassion, to shew their Generosity.

Conspiracy to destroy the Portugueses. This Action brought them into general Hatred, and all the People of the Molucco Islands being exited by Cachil Daroes, contriv’d to kill Don George, with all the Portugueses and Spaniards, and so deliver themselves from their Yoke. Daroes undertook to Unite all the Kings of those Islands in a League against the Christians; sent away trusty Persons to stir up the Confederates; and particularly to Cachil Catabruno, Governor of Gilolo, during that Kings Minority, advising him, at a Time appointed, to rise in Arms against the Spaniards inhabiting his Dominions, and then to kill the Infant King, and Usurp the Crown; for the compassing whereof he promis’d his Assistance, for they should both make that their common Cause, because he design’d the same Slaughter upon the Portugueses, and upon the Infant King Sultan Dayalo, whom he would Succeed in the Throne, and never submit to any Spanish Tyranny. At this time the Voice of the Gospel resounded in the Ears of the Barbarous Nations of the Archipelago, by the Preaching of the Religious Men of the Orders of St. Augustin, St. Dominick, and St. Francis, and of Father Francis Naverius, a Jesuit, and his Companions; Churches were built, and therefore God, who was taught by them, would not suffer the Ministers of the Gospel to be extirpated. Don George was inform’d of the Conspiracy, and the Preparations that were making to put it in Execution, which he kept to himself. Daroes, the better to disemble it, never absented himself, but resorted to the Fort, and paid Visits to the Governour; sometimes when sent for by him, and others, of his own Accord. He sent one Day desiring he would come to him, and bring Cachil Tamarano, Admiral of the Island, and Cachil Boio, the chief Justice of the Kingdom, to treat about some important Affairs. Cachil Daroes knowing nothing of Don George’s Design, took those two Cachils with him, and went away to the Fort. Don George receiv’d them courteously, Daroes and others put to Death. and with a chearful Countenance; but being come into a Room where all Things were prepar’d for the Purpose, they were seiz’d and put to the Rack, on which they discover’d the Conspiracy. Immediately he pass’d Sentence upon them in Form, and at the same time caus’d a Scaffold to be erected, adjoyning to the Fort, on the Outside, where the People were already gather’d in a Crowd. Then Cachil Daroes being brought out, and plac’d high on the Scaffold, a Cryer proclaim’d his Crimes, and the Penalty he was condemn’d to. His Head was cut off, and his Companions put to a less honourable Death; but what that was, no History or Relations inform us.

The Queen and all the Natives, were so terrify’d by this Action, that Natives fly, and streighten the Portugueses. they fled out of the City, to a craggy strong Mountain at the Town of Toruto: Thence the Queen sent to demand her Son, whom the Governour kept as a Prisoner; but he not answering her Letter, she was so offended at, and jealous of his Silence, that she caus’d Proclamation to be made, forbidding all the People of the Island, upon Pain of Death, to sell any Provisions, or other Necessaries, to the Portugueses. Her Orders were readily obey’d, and the Portugueses press’d by Hunger, found it a more powerful Enemy, than those they had wrong’d. Their Skins began to shrivel, they grew Lank and Weak, and must have perish’d, had not Gonzalo Pereyra arriv’d then with the Trading Galeon. Gonzalo Pereyra came from Malaca to succeed Don George de Meneses in the Post of Ternate; and improving the Opportunity, touch’d at Borneo, where he visited the King, with whom, the Spaniards not obstructing, he settled perpetual Peace and Amity; thence he set out immediately for Ternate, where he arriv’d in Safety. He presently took Possession of the Fort, and paid the weak Soldiers. The Queen went to visit him, and to complain of Don George, New Governour. and demand her Son Cachil Dayalo, which was her greatest Concern. Gonzalo Pereyra answer’d her generously, promis’d to do her Justice; and to begin, secur’d Don George in the Principal Tower, to appease the Queen, engaging i i. Word, That he would restore her Son, as soon as the Fort was in a good Posture. He sent to intreat her to return to the City, and former Amity; that Justice might be peaceably administer’d. She seeing some Effects of his Promise, in the Imprisonment of her Enemy, and the Expectation of Releasing the King her Son, turn’d past Sorrow into Joy, return’d to Court, and Gonzalo Pereyra reform’d Abuses, repair’d the Fort, and built Bastions of Square Stone, which till then had been unhew’d, the Queen furnishing Workmen and Materials. Still Cachil Dayalo was detain’d in the Fort, without being restor’d to his Liberty; and the Queen and People help’d to build the Fort, as the sure Means of obtaining their King’s Liberty. Gonzalo Pereyra, when he thought it a proper Time, resolv’d to execute some Orders he had brought from Goa, which were the same that had before endanger’d the Disturbance of those Kingdoms.

Fresh Uproars caus’d by the Governour. Some Governours, says the Portuguese Historian, Couto, only study to enrich themselves, impoverishing the Provinces, and their King; for no Prince can be rich, if his Grandeur depends upon poor Subjects. The Governour now perceiving that all Things were quiet, and he had little or no Dependance on those People, made Proclamation, that none should buy Cloves in those Islands, but the King, his Master’s Factors. At the same Time he order’d, that his Officers should enter the Houses of marry’d Men, which are the Richest, and take away all their Cloves; and this not only among the Natives, but in the Habitations, and Colonies of the Portugueses, paying for it after the Country Rate; and that they should break all their Weights, Scales and Measures, and other Implements of this Sort, all which he caus’d to be publickly burnt. The Island was again in an Uproar, and the Portugueses were for quitting it, because it was to no Purpose to live there, if they were depriv’d of that Trade. Most of the Portugueses repair’d to the House of Ferdinand Lopez, a Priest, who was the Bishop’s Vicar in the Fort, and ought to have given them an Example of Modesty. There one Vincent Fonseca, a seditious Fellow, heading the Mutiniers, they resolv’d to require the Governour to permit them to live in their former Liberty; and in case he should not Consent, they would depart the Fort, and the Country, and go over to the Spaniards, or else to the Mahometans, and Idolaters Towns. Some there were, who boggled at the Crime of abandoning the Service of their King, together with the Portugueses mutiny. Fort; and voted it would be less Harm to procure the Governour’s Death, by Means of the Natives. Whilst they were thus unresolv’d, the Governour sent to seize Vincent de Fonseca, for some disrespectful Words he had spoken upon this Occasion, to another Soldier who was viewing the Guards. The Multitude, who had already given themselves up to the Direction of Fonseca, were as much concern’d at his Imprisonment, as if every one of them had been put into Irons; and as generally in such Mutinies, they are not without some specious Pretence, tho’ it be but superficial, many of the Seditious, being incens’d, and resolute, repair’d to the Queen’s Palace, where they were easily admitted, and some of them to more Privacy with certain Counsellors of her’s. There they represented the Hardship of depriving them of the Trade of Clove, without any Demerit on their Side. But, said they, they may as well deprive us of this common Air, of this Light, and of the Benefit of our Senses. Our Kings give no such Orders; but they proceed from the Avarice of the Governours and Commanders, who tyrannize over us, and this Man more than all his Predecessors, being come to destroy, that which he was sent to preserve. He has no Design to restore your Majesty your Son; but on the contrary we are satisfy’d he contrives to destroy both the Son and the Mother. Her he will secure, as soon as he has brought his Works to perfection, that he may not be again kept from Provisions. If you will stand up for your Country, and kill the Commander, we shall not obstruct it, but on the contrary shall be as vigorous to act against him, as we are ready to promise it.

The Queen and her Councellors were well pleas’d, hoping by that The Queen stirs up her People. means to get rid of Tyrants, as they call’d them, and therefore would not let slip so favourable an opportunity to compass their Ends. The Queen assembled the prime Men of the Island; represented to them the Condition it was in; put them in mind, how King Boleyfe her Husband, protected the Portugueses, who came thither in Distress; how they had sworn Amity, and solemnly given their Hands upon it; the Honour and Kindness he show’d them; and that for their sakes he forfeited the good will of the Neighbouring Princes; that after he had receiv’d them, he maintain’d Wars, and sustain’d losses, even to the hazard of his life, to protect them; that he treated them as affectionately as if they had been his own Children; and how they, in return for his Entertainment and Favours, as soon as the Breath was out of his Body, presum’d, said she, to lay violent Hands on me; from whose Tyranny and Oppression I escaped, by absconding long among the Rocks, and Brambles. My Children, they snatch’d from their Nurses Breasts, to confine them in Prison; in their own Kingdom, and among their Subjects. When Cachil Bayano came to age to govern, they poyson’d him. They now design after the same manner to destroy his Brother, a lawful King, as if he were some run-away Slave. See what regard a parcel of intruding Strangers have for your Fortunes, your Houses, your Daughters, and your Wives, in your own Country, and in my Presence. Any one of these things ought to be a sufficient motive to cast off the Yoke we laid upon our Necks through our own Credulity. What then will not they all together oblige us to do? But besides all this, what ought we not to do, seeing our Religion affronted? Our Temples polluted? Our Priests trampled on? And all our selves in general despis’d? Can you have a greater Testimony of the justice of your Cause, than to see the Portugueses themselves on your side? Do not let slip this Opportunity, my Friends, stand by them, since they promise to assist us. Deliver by their means your King, your Country, and your Religion; that all these may be afterwards rescu’d from them, and we may exclude such ungrateful Guests.

These and other Exhortations made by the Queen, as Mafeus writes in Conspiracy against the Governor. his Latin History, were receiv’d with Abundance of Tears, and they all engag’d to put their helping hands to the execution of what had been concerted; and fixt the day and hour. Great Dissimulation was us’d, and the Queen forwarded the work of the Fort with much application, without sparing any Cost, giving out, so as it might come to the Governour’s Ears, That the King her Sons Liberty depended on the finishing of the Fort. This was the effect of Motherly Affection. The appointed Day being come, the Natives appear’d in Arms, just during the scorching Heat of the Noon-day; Some hid themselves in a Mosque, behind the Fort; others in a Wood, not far off, all of them ready to assault it, upon a Signal given, they being to enter at a Breach, which was not yet made up. Some of the Arm’d Islanders slily mixt themselves among the Masons, and Labourers, and among the King’s Servants, who were going and coming with kind Messages between the Son and the Mother, and by this means convey’d him his Arms, and being us’d to talk to him freely at other times, they had then the Opportunity of acquainting him with the Design, and advising to be in a readiness to fall on boldly in due time. Thence they went to the Governour’s Apartment, where he was taking his Afternoons Nap in all possible Security, his whole Family being asleep. The Ternates burst the Doors open with their Shoulders, and rush’d upon the Governour, whom the noise had awak’d. He defended himself with his Sword and Buckler for a considerable space; but his Enemies being numerous, and all His Death. pressing forwards, they cut him in pieces. A Woman-slave of his hearing the Hubbub, shreek’d out, which with the other Noise brought the Islanders out of the Mosque, without expecting the Signal. They laid hold of a Portuguese they met, but he broke loose, and escap’d their Fury by flight. The Slave continu’d crying out, Moors, Moors. With this the Governour’s Servants came running arm’d, and going up to the chief Tower, where their Master was wont to divert himself, found all the Murderers there, whom they laid hold of, and cast down headlong, and then shut the Gates of the Fort. Then they rang the Bell, the sound whereof, and their not hearing the Signal, discourag’d the Ternates who lay in Ambush, so that they slunk away into the City.

The Portugues Conspirators went slily dissembling into the Fort, and finding the Governour dead, requir’d the rest in his place to admit of the Alcayde, or Constable of the Fort, because the King of Portugal had so order’d. They refus’d him, and particularly the Vicar, who took upon him Fonseca made Governour. to head them all, and prevail’d so far that they chose Vincent de Fonseca for their Governour, who immediately took Possession of the Fort, and beginning to go on in the Tyrannical Design of Gonzalo Pereyra, left the Trade of Clove as it was before; but secur’d King Dayalo. No notice was taken of the Governour’s Death, as being executed by the consent of them all. The Queen insisted to demand her Son, since she had furnish’d all Necessaries for that Work; Vincent Fonseca refer’d the Answer to the Marry’d Men. All those Nations are of opinion that the discreetest among them are the Marry’d Men, both on account of their Age, and as more faithful Councellors, because they have a greater interest in the publick Good, and therefore it is usual to refer to them all Debates and Answers in matters of Difficulty. They all voted, That the Queen should not have her Son deliver’d to her, because it was convenient to keep him as an Hostage, fearing the second part of what had been concerted, and that their Friendships would last no longer than till it could be executed. But to palliate the true cause of detaining him, they answered, That they must first acquaint the Governour of India. In the mean while the Mother did not cease to weep, and to intreat. She fed upon these Hopes, grounded on the Hatred the Portugueses still retain’d for Pereyra, and on the Generosity she had us’d in restoring the Trade of Clove, and other means. The most prevalent of these seem’d to be the gaining the affections of the Marry’d Portugueses, to whom that Affair was referred, and under-hand of Vincent Fonseca himself, by rich Presents, and extraordinary Gifts. But she was soon undeceived, for Fonseca offered her such Reasons or Excuses, as proved his Tyrannical Design; alledging, that having already sent to consult the Governour of India about the King’s Liberty, it was not in his power to come to any Resolution in that affair, till the Answer came from Goa, for they would cut off his Head, should he go about to act of himself. The Queen perceiving that neither Gifts, nor Intreaties would prevail to get her Son, she resolv’d to use Force.

She stir’d up all the Neighbouring Kingdoms against the Portugueses; The Queen recovers her Son by force. and order’d the Provisions to be all remov’d, that none might come to the Fort, either by Sea or Land. Those within began to feel the want of all Necessaries, to such a degree, that they su’d to the Queen for Peace, which was concluded, and they gave up her Son, which was the only thing she aim’d at, without regarding the inconveniency of losing the Fort. The Queen having obtain’d the King’s Liberty, granted the Portugueses all the Conditions they demanded, and was so throughly appeas’d that the Christians continu’d their Settlements and Colonies, and Trade, and Provisions were restor’d. The Queen put the Government into the hands of her Son, who at first shew’d some Severity and Harshness towards the prime Men, and discover’d some Weaknesses, which till then his Confinement had either conceal’d, or suppress’d. These things render’d him so odious, that the case was alter’d, and they would have been glad he had been Prisoner again. The Mother could not curb his ill Inclination, for the extravagant Youth’s deprav’d Nature would not allow of it.

At this time three mean Fellows of the Portugueses Colony, went to those of the Natives to rob; besides which they ravish’d some Women. The Portuguese Robbers kill’d. Islanders would not bear with that Insolence; but those who had been wrong’d in revenge kill’d the Offenders. Vincent de Fonseca hearing of it, magnify’d the Heinousness of the Fact, without mentioning his Countrymens Guilt, and order’d strict Enquiry to be made after the Slayers. What Care ought Princes to take to secure the Affection of their Subjects. The King was so hated, that certain Natives went to the Governour, and being conducted into a private part of the Fort, because they were Men of Quality, they assur’d him that the King had been the Occasion of the killing of those Portugueses, grounding the Accusation on their own Surmises, and aggravating the Offence with other Circumstances, in such manner, that had Fonseca lov’d the King, he could not but have believ’d them. He presently contriv’d to seize him; but being impatient, and despairing of securing him by Art, had recourse to Force. The King did the like, tho’ King of Ternate flies. sensible how little Assistance he could expect from his People, however he arm’d a few Vessels, and falling upon some Christian Towns, took several Prisoners. The Governour on the other Hand, without sparing Ternate, attacked what Towns he could, so that Cruelty and Rapine were again in use, even to assaulting of Cities, the very Sufferers approving of it, and pleas’d with their Losses, that so they might be reveng’d of their King. He fearing that the Hatred they bore him, might occasion his being seiz’d and deliver’d up to Fonseca, went over to Tydore, where that King for the present entertain’d and assisted him, as a Friend and Relation. The Governour sent with speed to call the King’s younger Brother, named Sultan Tabarija, who was fled with some Malecontents, and with the consent of Sultan Tabarija made King. all the rest of the People, who were before no less dissatisfy’d, proclaim’d him King, with all the Forms and Ceremonies us’d in that case. Many approv’d of it, yet some were scandaliz’d. The same Division reign’d among the Portugueses, remembring the unjust Election of Vincent de Fonseca, and that he was the first and main instrument of the Death of Gonzalo Pereyra. Fonseca himself was not at Peace with his own Conscience; but so full of Apprehensions and Dread, that he was never unarm’d, disconsolate, melancholy, and attended by all those ill Symptoms, the Memory of Guilt produces in the Mind; and he could wish he were discharg’d of the Burden he had taken upon him. The new King Tabarija began his Reign shewing Kindness to all Men, and cherishing the Portugueses, which offended his absent Brother; and administer’d occasion to irritate the Kings of Tydore and Ternate against him so hastily, that he immediately broke the Peace, and declar’d himself their Enemy.

Tristan de Atayde Governour of Ternate. At this time Tristan de Atayde came to Ternate, whose Presence brought all Things into better Form. He appeas’d the Queen, and commending Tabarija’s Government, gain’d his Affection. Trade went on without any Obstruction. Vincent de Fonseca imbark’d for India, and was seiz’d by the Viceroy of Goa, for the heinous Crimes he had committed in the Molucco Islands, whence a full Account of them was sent with him; yet he was not punish’d, but liv’d quietly for the future. Ternate flourish’d under this mild Government; the King, his Subjects, and the Portuguese Officers being united; but all those Garrisons so remote from the Head, being Receptacles of seditious Persons, who are contriving Innovations to disturb the Peace, and thrive by Discord, there wanted not some Promoters of such Changes, who perverted Tristan de Atayde, and divested him of his former Mildness. About the beginning of his Government two Carcoas of Barbarians plunder’d and almost destroy’d the City Momoya, the Inhabitants whereof were Idolaters, in the Island Moro. The Lord of it a powerful Sangiack, and good Moral Man, tho’ a Heathen, made his Escape. Gonzalo Velloso, a Portuguese, was then not far from his City, following his Trade, and going thither, upon his paying a Visit to the Sangiack, he told him the Havock that had been made, complaining of the dangerous Neighbourhood of the other Islanders, and asking his Advice, how he might be reveng’d and secur’d for the future. Velloso, God directing his Tongue, told him, That the surest way was to sue for Peace to the Commander in chief of the Moluccos, and entertain Amity with the Portugueses, for if his Enemies once saw he was supported by their Power, no King nor Sangiack would dare to offend him. He assur’d him that the King of Portugal sent them for that End, being oblig’d to put down Tyranny and Oppression; but that for the obtaining that benefit more fully, it was requisite he should become a Christian; for by that means he would save his Soul, and secure his Escape, which was the least important of the A Sangiack converted. two. Velloso said so much to this Point, and the Spirit which directed, suggested such important Truths, that the Sangiack at first admiring them, approv’d and submitted to them, and grew very earnest to be admitted to Baptism. He desir’d Gonzalo Velloso to be assisting to him, and gathering some of his Family and Friends, they set out for Ternate, the Sangiack himself staying behind for their Answer. The Heathens came with Velloso to Ternate, where they were generously received, and entertain’d by Tristan de Ataide. Having heard what they came about, he put them all into the Christian Habit, appointing Clergy-men to instruct and Catechize them. Being thus prepar’d, they receiv’d Baptism with extraordinary satisfaction, the Commander in chief being their God-father. Then he commended the Sangiack’s Resolution, shewing how advantageous it would be to him to become a Son of the Church, and reject the abominable and foul Ceremonies of Idolatry, in which he had liv’d. He sent him word, to appoint the Day and Place for being Baptiz’d, and he would see all perform’d as he should direct, for which Reason he left it to his Choice. The Messengers returning to Momoya, were not only proud of having embrac’d the Christian Faith, but of the good Usage they receiv’d from the Governour and other Christians, telling the Sangiack all that had happen’d, and the Answer they brought him. The Sangiack, led by his own inclination, and encourag’d by their Account, imbark’d in some Carcoas with the greatest Splendor of Musick and Gayety he was able. Being come in Sight of Ternate, Tristan de Ataide went out to meet him with no less Pomp. He lodg’d and entertain’d him accordingly, and order’d a Learned and Religious Man to Catechize and instruct him. Some Days after when the Cathecumens were fitted for it, they receiv’d Baptism, with publick Rejoycings, and greater Solemnity than had ever been seen in Ternate. There was not a Christian but what brought Palm-Branches and Flowers from that natural Garden of the Island; besides Musick, Dancing, Firing of great Guns, and even the very Barbarians rejoyc’d. The Sangiack in Baptism took the Name of Don John; he stay’d some Days rejoycing and Feasting with the Portugueses, and then return’d home, taking along with him the Priest that instructed him, call’d Simon Vaz, to improve him in the Knowledge of the Faith. That Priest liv’d with him some Years in his City, leading an Exemplar Life, and exercising himself in Works of Officious and pure Charity, by which means he converted great Numbers of Heathens, and particularly the Inhabitants of Momoya. But being alone, and the Number of those God was pleased for his Glory, to bring to him increasing very fast, he sent to Tristan de Atayde for another Priest to assist him in that Function, and he accordingly sent F. Francis Alvarez. They both in a short time converted the Infidels of that Part, throwing down all the Pagodes, so they call’d their Idols, cleansing those Places, and converting the Houses of Abomination and Darkness into Churches of the living God. Tristan de Atayde so far favour’d the new Don John, as to send along with him some Portuguese Soldiers to defend his Person and Fort, and this Prince maintain’d very friendly Correspondence with him. His End we shall soon see and admire in the Sequel of this History.

The People of Ternate at the same time took another Course, for they Portugueses serve the King. hating Sultan Tabarija, and desiring his Death, talk’d with the Governour in private, and gave him to understand that his Life was in Danger, for Tabarija contriv’d to kill him, as had been done by Gonzalo Pereyra, that so he might seize the Fort, turning out the Portugueses. The Governour hearing his Life, and the Fort were both in Jeopardy, and calling to mind the yet fresh Example of his Predecessor, easily believ’d the Design, but cunningly dissembled. He contriv’d that some Portugueses on account of real or pretended Differences should have Recourse to the King’s Favour, as sometimes they us’d to do, and should prevail upon him to come to the Fort to speak for them. He was apply’d to by some, and like an innocent Man suspecting nothing, went to the Fort to intercede for them. He was immediately seiz’d and loaded with Irons, and being brought to Trial, the same Persons that contriv’d his Imprisonment, appear’d as Witnesses against him. After a tedious Examination, or show of it, the Result was, that he should be sent to India to justifie himself. He imbark’d with a safe His Conversion and Death. Conscience, and his Cause being examin’d before the Viceroy Antony Barreto at Goa, he was clear’d, and confessing the Holy Spirit had taken that method to draw him to Salvation, was Baptiz’d in that City with great Satisfaction, by the Name of Don Emanuel. In his Return homewards, expecting the Monson at Malaca to put to Sea, he dy’d with extraordinary Tokens of a sincere Christian; and having no lawful Heir, appointed King John the Third of Portugal to succeed him in all his Kingdoms. The Will was afterwards carry’d to Ternate, where the great Ones and Commonalty accepted of it, owning King John for their Soveraign. This was perform’d with Acclamations in the Streets and publick Places, as also in the Courts of Judicature, taking Possession with the Royal Standard of Portugal display’d, and all other usual Solemnities and Ceremonies. In the Year 1549, Jordan de Freytas carry’d the publick Instruments of the Possession to Lisbon.

To return to the Course of the History when Tristan de Atayde had Imbark’d King Tabarija for India, he sought out for a Bastard Brother of his call’d Aerio, born of a Javanese Mother. The Lad was then ten years of Age, bred by his Mother in a retir’d manner, at a Pleasure-House encompass’d with perpetual Greens, the natural Disposition being improv’d The Melancholy Tree, and Flower. by Art, which so far prevail’d that the Flower so wonderful for its Fragrancy and manner of growing call’d Triste, or melancholy; found only in Malabar and Malaca, abounded in this Ladies Gardens. She ador’d the Sun, and brought up her Child in that Folly, that he might forget the Rudiments he learnt at Goa, when in the Colledge of the Jesuits. The Idolaters believe, or feign, that a most beautiful Daughter of Parizataco, a Satrapa, or Nobleman, fell in love with the Sun, and that he after complying with, and obliging her, setled his Affections on another, and the first not able to endure that another should be preferr’d before her, kill’d her self. From her Ashes, for in those parts they still retain the Custom of burning dead Bodies, sprung that Melancholy Tree, say they, whose Blossoms or Flowers still preserving the Memory of their Original, have such a Hatred for the Sun, that they cannot bear his Light. This Plant is call’d in the Canarine Tongue Parizataco, from the Indian Womans Father, who was Metamorphos’d like Daphne, tho’ on other Account. The Malayes call it Singadi; the Arabs, Guart; the Persians and Turks, Gul; the Decanines, Pul; and the Portuguese, Arvore Triste; that is, the Melancholy Tree. It shoots out abundance of slender Branches, regularly divided by Knots, from each of which two Leaves sprout, opposite to one another, like those of the Plum-Tree, but soft like Sage, and cover’d with a white Down. From each Leaf sprouts a Nib, or Nipple, whence five Heads shoot out small at the end, each of them adorn’d with four smaller round Leaves; from each little Head proceed five Flowers, the fifth in the midst of the other four; among them the white Flowers visibly grow out, being bigger than Orange Flowers, and so fast after Night fall, that the Motion of them is perceptible. This Fruitfulness lasts all the Night, till the Appearing of the Sun renders it barren, and causes all the Flowers and Leaves to drop off, the Boughs remaining wither’d. On a sudden all that Fragrancy ceases, which enrich’d the Air with all the sweet Odours of Asia, included in this alone; till the Sun leaving the Horizon again, the Plant again flourishes in its beloved Darkness, as if it then retriev’d the Wrong it receiv’d from the Light. The Asiaticks are excessively fond of Perfumes, which is an Argument of their Lasciviousness. Great Taxes are laid in several Provinces, on all sweet Scents.

The Portugueses came arm’d to that House, where the aforesaid Princess Portuguses sent to fetch Aerio. bred her Son, and demanded him in the Name of Tristan de Atayde; she would willingly have hid him, but could not, and therefore began to excuse her self, and beg they would leave him. It avail’d nothing, for the Messengers had Orders not to return without him, and to gain her Consent, swore they would carry him to reign in the stead of Tabarija, and that as soon as he came to the Fort, he should be received as King, both by the Ternates and Portugueses. Some Relations tell us, that then the Mother, shedding Abundance of Tears, streightly embracing the Prince, cry’d out, saying, Were I assur’d that you took him away to reign peaceably, His Mother’s Speech to keep him. without any Opposition, or Apprehension, well belov’d and obey’d by his Subjects, and in settled Prosperity, undisturb’d by any Frights; yet would I rather see him grow up and continue in a private Life, without burdening himself with any publick Concern, than that he should reign to please your Humour; this was my Intention in retiring with him, and I would gladly conceal him from all humane Conversation. If so, what can I think of what you now promise me? Will it be reasonable, that I deliver you my Son to receive the Crown, and that you at the same time design him for Imprisonment and Fetters, from which nothing shall, or can possible deliver him but Poison and false Accusations, which have brought his Brothers and Parents to their End? What Security have I from Fortune, that she will in this Child be reconciled to that Family, which she has condemned to immortal Enmity with the Europeans, in Requital for having friendly entertain’d them; and decreed that, instead of the Protection it hop’d to find in your Arms, you should lay on it an intollerable Yoke? Leave us then, both Mother and Son, to employ our selves about the Works of Nature, since costly Experience has so fully undeceived as to the Effects of Fortune. Permit us to divert the Thoughts of them, with the Quiet, and Improvements of these Gardens. Let us be allow’d to want that which so many seek after. James de Couto, in his Decades relates this Fact, and the Mother’s Lamentation, and Words. The Portugueses, no longer able to give Ear to those dismal Reflections, which did not savour of a barbarous Woman, ran up to her, and forc’d away her Son, whom she struggled to defend. He, says the same Author, observing his Mother’s Tears, and the Reasons she alledg’d for not parting with him, and having some anticipated Notion of the Sweetness of Reigning, which he had not yet tasted, stood gazing on her and them, full of Confusion. The Rudeness, and Insolence of the Soldiers put an End to all; for tho’ they had no such Orders from their Commander, being deaf to, and weary of hearing the Complaints of The Portuguese murder her. a Disconsolate Woman; they at the same time seiz’d the Son, and laying hold of the Mother, cast her headlong out at the Window: The new King was carry’d to the Fort, and at the same time that the Subjects swore Fidelity to him, they with general Lamentation celebrated his Mother’s Obsequies, which were perform’d with greater Solemnity, than even those of the Principal Queens. This Inhumanity exceeding even the Canibals, and consequently unworthy the pretended Portugueses Bravery; being bruited Abroad in the Neighbouring Provinces, produc’d that just Hatred which was of Force to unite; and actually drew into a Confederacy all the Kings of the Archipelago, against the Portugueses. They assembled Confederacy against them. in Council, and in the Meeting concerted their Design, declaring that the Oppression they were under, was intollerable, the Portugueses making and deposing Kings to their own Humour and Fancy, insulting those Crowns which had given them the Power they had abus’d, contrary to all Laws of Humanity, without allowing the Natives so much as a Vote in Elections. Having agreed upon the Enterprize, they provided all Things for the Execution, whilst the appointed Time came, which they diligently made as short as might be, and expected with Dissimulation.

The Spanish and Portuguese Fleets at this Time continu’d their Voyages to the Archipelago, their several known Ways; the Spaniards from New Difference about the Moluccos, between Spain and Portugal. Spain to the Phillippine Islands; the Portugueses along the Coasts of Africk, and so to Malaca. Both Sides exercised their Power, and carry’d on their Trade with Ambition, and, as some say, with Cruelty; but the most bloody Theatre of continual Tragedies, was Ternate and all the Molucco’s. There both Nations of Castile and Portugal decided their Quarrel by the Sword, whilst their Kings in Europe only contended by Dint of Cunning, and Cosmography. At this time the Matter was not so plain, as when the Cosmographers and Commissioners on both Sides, lay’d down the Meridian, whereby to assign each of them one half of the World to their King. For the Admiral Christopher Columbus returning from his first Discovery of the West-Indies, in the Year 1493, Pope Alexander the VIth. granted the Investiture of them, for the Crown of Castile, to their Catholick Majesties, King Ferdinand, and Queen Isabel, or Elizabeth; and to obviate the Differences that might arise between the two Crowns, to the obstructing the Propagation of the Gospel, by the same Apostolical Authority, which in that spiritual Capacity is not limited to any part of the Globe, he divided it betwixt those two Crowns, ordering a Line to be drawn along the Heavens to cut both the Poles, distant on the Earth one hundred Leagues from the Islands of the Azores and Cabo Verde. By Vertue of this Division, the Emperor pretended that the Molucco Islands were within his Limits, ever since Gonzalo Gomez de Espinosa, his Commander in chief, Sebastian del Cano, and his Companions, who went with Magellan, took Possession of them for his Crown. Pretending at the same Time, that they were the first Christians that arriv’d at the Moluccos, and that then he was own’d as Sovereign by Sultan Corala, King of Ternate, who reign’d before Sultan Bongue; by Sultan Almanzor, King of Tydore, by Luzuf, King of Gilolo, and other Princes, who all swore Fealty by their Idols, and the Alcoran; and that Gonzalo Gomez admitted them, and swore to the Observance of what had been agreed on, in his Arguments for Spain. King’s Name, before an Image of the Blessed Virgin. He urg’d, that by Mathematical Demonstration, and the Judgment of Men learned in that Faculty, it appear’d, that the Moluccos were within the Limits of Castile, as were all others, as far as Malaca, and even beyond it. That it was no easy Undertaking for Portugal to go about to disprove the Writings of so many Cosmographers, and such able Mariners; and particularly the Opinion of Magellan, who was himself a Portuguese. And that in Case he might be thought partial, because of his being disoblig’d in Portugal, that Exception did not lie against Francis Serrano, who was also a Portuguese, and had been favour’d and cherish’d. That to say the Sea Charts had been maliciously contriv’d, was a groundless Objection, and not probable. Besides that, in Relation to the Article of Possession, on which the Controversy depended, it was only requisite to stand by what was writ by, and receiv’d among Cosmographers.

In Answer to this, King John of Portugal, deny’d the Fact of the Discovery, Portuguese Answer. as to its Precedency; for Serrano’s was in the Year 1511, and that of Magellans Companions nine Years later, in 1520. He declar’d the Globes, Astrolabes, and Sea Charts to be partial, and that in Case they were rectify’d, drawing the aforesaid Meridian, according to Rules of Astrology, his Limits would not only comprehend the Moluccos, but reach far beyond the Philippine Islands. He offer’d King Tabarija’s last Will on his Behalf; and said, that if the Line were fairly drawn, observing Eclipses, as had been done sometimes, the Truth of his Assertion would appear. To this they added, the Papers of the Geographer and Astrologer, Andrew de S. Martin, by which it appear’d, that he sailing with Magellan, his before unattempted Voyage, had observed several Eclipses, and Oppositions. Among the rest, on the 17th of December, 1519. He in the River call’d Rio de Janeyro, took an Observation of a Conjunction of Jupiter and the Moon; on the first of February 1520, another of the Moon and Venus; soon after another of the Sun and Moon, after passing the Streights, another Opposition of the Sun and Moon, and others at other times; all which, tho’ calculated by him to the Meridian of Sevil, avail’d nothing to his Design, which was to prove that the Molucco Islands did not belong to Portugal; for which Reason he found Fault with John de Monteregio’s Tables and Almanacks. All these Papers were preserv’d by Edward Resende Factor at the Moluccos, a learned and curious Man. They said, that since there was then a Treaty about the Possession of those Islands; in a Case of that Consequence it was not proper, to avoid alledging, and examining the Grounds of their Property, to prevent the Decision of the Sword, which was the Court where that Controversy was pleaded; and when once it comes to that pass, there was no Possibility of standing to speculative Writing, which not being made good by Experience, must at least be look’d upon as uncertain.

The Possession of the Molucco Islands was of great Consequence to the King of Portugal, for carrying on the Trade of Spice, and being inform’d of the War still maintain’d between his Subjects and the Emperor’s, in those Parts, he daily us’d fresh Endeavours to bring that Business to some Conclusion, that so the War might cease. The Emperor had not so much Intelligence of what his Commanders did in Asia; because the Portuguese suffer’d no Ships, but their own to pass by the Cape of Good Hope; and the way of New-Spain, that Voyage was not much frequented, and therefore not so well known; and besides all this he then stood in need of a great Sum of Money. In the Year 1525, there was a Treaty at Segovia, The Difference adjusted. by his Majesties Order, for composing of this Difference, and in 1526 it was held at Sevil, where the Portuguese Embassador; and the Licenciate Azevedo of that Kings Council, were met by the Bishops of Osma, President of the Council of the Indies, Doctor Laurence Galindez, of the same Council, and Don Garcia de Padilla, first Commendary of Calatrava, on the Emperor’s side, as Commissioners, and Plenipotentaries, besides the Lord-High-Chancellor, and the Popes Nuncio, Mercurio Gatnara. After many Meetings, and much Strife, to which there were also Civilians, Geographers, and Mariners admitted; all which only puzzled the Cause, whence ensu’d Law Suits, Arbitrations, and other Fruitless Negociations in Spain, and Wars in Asia between the Ships of both Crowns: After all this there was a Cessation, and Quietness, the Emperor Mortgaging those controverted Islands to the King of Portugal, for 350000 Ducats. This was concluded at Zaragoza, on the 22d of August 1529, as his Imperial Majesty was going over to be Crown’d in Italy. The Line of Division was again examin’d, and what Parts of the Earth it is to run through; the Times of Payment were fix’d, with other Conditions, and Salvos of the Right on both sides, that so neither Oblivion, nor the Kindred between the two Kings might confound it.

By Relations Written in those Days it appears, that the Emperor consulting Spaniards against quitting the Moluccos. Peter Ruyz de Villegas, a grave and learned Gentleman, about this Mortgage; his Answer was condemning it, and declaring, That his Majesty had better to have Mortgaged any other of his Kingdoms, than that of the Moluccos, Trapobana, or Malaca, or any other in the East; all which, in his Opinion, belong’d to his Majesty; and the great uncertainty of State Affairs. Many others advised the Emperor to repay that great Sum to the King of Portugal; and what is yet more, the Representatives in the Cortes of Castile, propos’d that the Emperor should make over to them the Molucco Islands for six Years, by way of Farm, and they would pay King John the Mortgage Money, and bring the Trade of Spice to Coruna, and after the six Years his Majesty should carry on that Trade. The Emperor hearing of this Innovation, order’d a stop to it, and that no further Progress should be made in fitting out the Fleet design’d for the Moluccos, under Simon de Alcazova, and forwarded by the Bishop of Ciudad Rodrigo.

Orders, and Letters Patents, were drawn and sealed, for both Nations to forbear Hostilities, but the Emperor’s Subjects never receiv’d Commands from him to withdraw their Forces for any other Enterprize, nor did they War ceases between Spaniards and Portugueses. know what had been agreed on in Spain, any other way than by the Account they had from the Portugueses who had receiv’d Orders from their King, to conclude a Peace, and to Ship off the Spaniards by the way of India for Spain. This Agreement put an End to all Judicial, and Military Contention. Since then the Vicissitude of Times has invested all the Right, and Title in our King. So that, according to grave Civilians, he might, as they say, invert the Titles, or possess by them all, without confounding the Right; Heaven having design’d him to be Sovereign of such a vast Monarchy, and given him that Hereditary Zeal, which makes him offer his whole Power to oppose Hereticks and Sectaries, and to spread the Faith, and its perfect Politicks among such Multitudes of Souls as have received it, in so many barbarous Provinces. For this same Reason it will be superfluous to examine any further into the Limits assign’d by that Law, which could never be settled.

This Accommodation being concluded, the Portuguese Fleets, without Portugueses Possession of the Moluccos. any Opposition from those of Castile, peaceably possess’d themselves of the Islands of Ternate, Tydore, Bachian, and the others about them. From the first of these, as their Head in Spirituals, our Priests went Abroad to preach the Word of Truth, which was receiv’d by several Kings and Nations, leaving but inconsiderable Remains of Idolatry, and other Sects. Whole Cities, whose Soveraigns chose to continue in their Darkness, not regarding their Prince’s Example, which uses to have the Force of a Law, threw down their Idols, and consecrated Profaneness, dedicating their Temples to the True God. The Kings of Portugal built Garrisons, and Factories for the Christians to inhabit; sending their Commanders and Officers, who curbed the Kings, and the Sangiacks their Subjects. Some Governours there were, who besides the Care they took of propagating Conversions. the Gospel, and maintaining Peace in those Parts, endeavour’d by endearing Means to attract the Barbarians to love our Habits, to affect our Ways of Entertainment, and the European Affability and Conversation, and gently inclin’d them to our Customs and Manners, which in some Places made them look upon that as a Sort of Equality, when it was no better than Servitude. The powerful Union of Justice and Religion was however the most prevalent; but the Commanders and Governours being defective in the first of these Virtues, on which inward Felicity and Government depend; the Subjects lost the second, and return’d to their former Blindness, as appears by what has been already said, and more fully by what is to follow, since we are now come to the Election of Sultan Aerio, in whose Days Ternate was utterly lost, and could never be recovered either by Force or Art, till the Reign of our Sovereign Lord the King; a just Reward of his Piety and Zeal. The lawful Queen, by those People call’d Putriz, was as much concern’d for Aerio’s Mother’s Death, as for any of her own Sons. She was present at her Funeral, and lamenting immoderately, curs’d the Domination of the Portugueses, calling it Tyranny. All the Machinations of those who study’d Revenge were known to her, and she forwarded them with her Advice; for as they said, nothing now remain’d of the former Moderation of the Governours sent thither out of Europe, nor of that Regard and Respect they used to have for them.

The End of the First Book.

THE
HISTORY
OF THE
Discovery and Conquest
OF THE
Molucco and Philippine Islands, &c.

BOOK II.

The Alliance concluded betwixt the Kings of the Archipelago, and particularly Vaygamano, Vaigeo, Quibibio, and Mincimbio, reigning in the Islands Papuas, was follow’d by such an Accident, that tho’ the Minds of the Confederates had not been already so well dispos’d, nor the Blood of those Innocent Kings so newly spilt, it would have consummated the Hatred they had conceived against the Portuguese Nation. All the Ports of the Molucco Islands were so well secur’d, and the Passage for Provisions so wholly stopp’d up, that Tristan de Atayde despairing of Relief, sent Captain Pinto to Mindanao, Pinto sent for Relief. and the Neighbouring Islands, to furnish such things as were absolutly necessary for the Support of Life, there being nothing to be had within his Liberties. Pinto sailing in a good Ship, arriv’d at Mindanao, visited the King, by whom he was well receiv’d; and he having seen his Credentials, and consulted the Sangiacks of his Council, establish’d Peace and Amity with him. He sold the Commodities he carry’d at his own Rates, and buying and barterring, loaded with Provisions to his own Content; thence he went over to the Island Seriago, where he was no less successful with the King. In this Island, that their Friendship might last for ever, they concluded the Peace with a barbarous Ceremony, which when practis’d in those Parts, they never break the Articles. The Parties being met, certain Officers appointed for that Purpose, draw a Quantity of Blood from Barbarous Custome. their Arms, and each drinks the other’s, as a Gage of Affection; believing they convey it into their Souls, by that horrid Draught. This Contract so ratify’d, produc’d such Confidence, that their Ships repair’d to our Ports, and ours to theirs, with all possible Security, without any Let or Prohibition. Pinto perceiving what a Multitude of the Natives resorted to his Ship, resolved to make a Prey of them; and the last Day, Forty of them coming Aboard to Trade, he perswaded them to go down into the Hold, on Pretence of showing them its Bulk and Conveniencies, and as Villany of Pinto. soon as they were down, shut the Hatches upon them; this he practised several times, till at last, tho’ he observ’d them close, one of them forcing his Way out, leap’d into the Sea, and swam ashore. He went directly to the King, whom he acquainted with the villanous Practice; The King justly enrag’d, to see Friendship so newly contracted, and confirm’d by the most sacred of Tyes, in his Opinion, so perfidiously violated by the Portugueses, thinking Religion affronted, immediately order’d all the Ships that were afloat to be brought together, and such as were finish’d in the Docks, to be launch’d; all which being well equipp’d, stor’d with Guns, and full of those furious Barbarians, encompass’d the Portuguese Ship, attacking her on all Sides. Pinto was beginning to weigh his Anchors, having seen the Ships in Motion, and the Men hasting Aboard; he defended himself with only 25 Soldiers, who had scarce time to handle their Arms; for the Natives of Seriago began already to Board, and those who were Prisoners under Deck had prevaild, but that the Mariners loos’d their Sails. At this time there fell a dreadful Storm of Rain, with such amazing Thunder and Lightning, as if the Heavens had been rent asunder. The Seriagos quitted the Portuguese Ship, endeavouring to recover the Shore in their own Vessels, with their Sails rent, the Hulls shatter’d, and the Rigging disabled; and to get off the better, they threw over-board their Cannon and Arms, being in danger of sinking. This Tempest lasted two Days, during which Time, Pinto’s Ship could not escape, his Men and he being so far spent, that they had neither Strength nor Courage to stand by their Tackle; they let the Ship drive with the Sea, and threw over-board their Provisions, Merchandize, Guns, Arms, Cloaths, and all they could come at; and being convinc’d of the Justice of the Judgment, for having broken their Faith, and solemn Engagement they had made, arriv’d at Ternate astonish’d, dumb, and out of Countenance, thinking they were still in the Storm. Such are the Effects of a guilty Conscience, which presently provokes God’s Wrath.

All the Kings of the adjacent Islands were soon acquainted with the Leagues against the Portugueses. Perfidiousness of those few Portugueses, that they had transgress’d the sacred Laws of Hospitality, and always made a mischievous Use of Benefits; whereupon they immediately concluded their League, to be exercised like desperate Men. They presently made Proclamation, forbidding, under most severe Penalties, the conveying of any Provisions to the Portugueses, either by Sea or Land, that so they might be reduc’d to quit all those Provinces, and fly into India, and since they could not batter the Fort, for Want of great Guns, they should starve it out; enjoyning all Persons of all Ages, and both Sexes, to be vigilant in observing this fatal Decree, that so the Trading Galeon might not afford them the Comfort of hoping for Relief. Then considering that the main Motive of their exercising such Tyranny, was the Spice of Cloves, wherewith Ternate, and all the Moluccos abound, the Natives resolv’d to set Fire to all the Trees, endeavouring that the Conflagration should be so Universal, as that the Moluccos might ever after remain barren. They well knew that this was contriving their own Ruin; but they look’d upon it as a pleasing and advantageous Destruction, so they might but be reveng’d of their Enemies.

Reflection. The Crop of Cloves makes the Wealth of the Molucco Kings, much more than the Taxes their Subjects pay; and tho’ Rage, and Despair put Fire into their Hands, to burn their Country, it might happen, as sometimes Mistakes prove advantageous, that what they design’d to render their Fields Barren, might make them more Fruitful. It is well known that course Ashes mix’d, and scatter’d on the Face of the Earth often Fertilize it. Nothing is more frequent in Europe than to burn the Stubble, and Straw upon barren Lands; because, either the burnt Earth gathers some Unknown Strength, and produces good Pasture, or else the Fire consumes its Rankness, and exhales the superfluous Moisture. Perhaps the intense Heat opens several Passages, and dilates the close Pores, and hidden Veins, thro’ which the Nourishment flows, and thence the Earth receives it in all Parts, to make it capable of a new Product; or else it hardens, and closes the Vents which were open’d, that so the thin Waters, or the continual Intenseness of the Sun, or the piercing Cold of the North-East Wind, which is chilling, may do it no Harm. Besides, Nature having chosen that only Part of the World to produce this sort of Fruit, in which there has never been observ’d any Failure, or Intermission, it could not be believing that a Momentary Violence should utterly cause it to cease. However the Design of those People was not to renew those Spicy Groves, but entirely to destroy them. This shows how mischievously they were bent against themselves, and against all Nations. It will be therefore convenient in this Place to treat of the Cloves at large.

Account of Cloves. The first that made any Account of it, were the Chineses, who attracted by the Scent, began to load their Junks with it for the Gulphs of Persia and Arabia. Pliny was acquainted with, and defines it, saying, It is a long Pepper; and calls it Garyophillum. The Persians gave it since the Name of Calafur, it does not belong to us to decide which of these Words was derived from the other. The Spaniards formerly call’d it Girofe, and afterwards Clavos, because they are like Nails, which bear the same Name. The Head of the Clove, having four small Teeth that cross it, resembles a Star. The Natives of the Moluccos call the Tree Siger, the Leaf Varaqua, and the Fruit Chamque. The Plant is not unlike our Bay-Tree, but bears a greater Head. When it begins to blossom, it spreads a most delicious Fragrancy, and on the very Top like the Myrtle, from one single Stock produces an infinite Number of Clusters, like those of Elder, or the Honey-Suckle. At first coming out they are White, as they grow up Green, and the third Season, when Ripe, makes them Red; this Variety of Colours, by inward Virtue, showing the several Terms that bring it to Perfection. Those that remain on the Clusters, which they call Mother Cloves, continue there a year, growing larger and stronger. They either thresh the Branches to gather them, or else shake them with Cords they have made fast above, drawing from below, after the Ground about is clean’d; but it is naturally clear from Weeds, for this Sovereign Tree suffers no sort of Herb to grow about it. It draws all the moisture so powerfully to it self, that all Roots about are destroy’d, or starv’d. It bears at eight Years standing, and lasts an hundred. Some say it would hold longer, were it not strip’d with such Violence, which it avenges by growing Barren; but they are mistaken, for in the Islands of Bachian, they lop the Branches, that they may produce more Cloves, and the low Branches bear least. From these they gather the Cloves with their Hands, and they only bear when the Monson blows. They yield their Fruit from September to February every two Years. Others say once in three; because when they gather the Clove, besides that the Plant is much impair’d, they break off those Buds, which produce the Blossoms of the Cloves; but then they afford certain hopes of another Crop. The Truth of it is, that Nature allows them a Year’s respit, during which they rest like the Olive-Trees in Europe. They are gathered when Ripe, and their Ripeness appears by being Red. Being spread in the Sun, in three Days they dry up, and contract a blackish Ash-colour. Mistake of Avicen.

Avicen, by his leave, was deceiv’d, when he said that the Gum of the Clove Tree is answerable in its Virtue to Turpentine; for Experience has prov’d the contrary. Besides, that Trees excessive hot or cold, yield no Gum, but only those which are temperate between both. Sea-Water Feeds, and Fresh does them Harm. A certain Historian Writes, that they yield Fruit twice a Year; if by it he means the middle Crop, which is very small, we grant it; but if he speaks of the most Fruitful, as the Triennial, which with general Amazement produces enough to serve all Nations, the Belief of his Assertion will remain in the Author himself. These Plants make amends for their delay in the Abundance of their Product; which is such, that after enriching all Nations with it, the K. of Spain’s Revenue out of it, Yearly amounts to two Millions of pieces of Eight, little over or under. It is generally reckon’d that only the five Molucco Islands produce all the Clove, because of the prodigious Quantity they yield. They always amount to Four Thousand Bars, each Bar of Ternate being four hundred Weight, and three quarters, and this for that Island; but the third of the whole taken for the King amounts to six thousand Bars, and every common Bar is better than five hundred Weight of ours. Perhaps the Word Bar might come from the Greek Baros, signifying a Load. The Cloves grow also in the small Islands of Ires and Meytarana, about Ternate; those of Pulo and Cavali near Tydore, and in Gilolo, Sabugo and Gamoconora, Towns of Barachina; as also in the Islands of Amboyna and Veranula, more in this last than in all the others, but they are weak, and smaller. The Clove Trees grow up without any Help or Art, like all Trees coming from Rocks, and they made the only Woods in these Islands, which sucking in all the moisture Heaven affords, it is a wonder to see any other Plant near. When they have a mind to Transplant a Clove Tree, they set it where many Weeds grow, that it may thrive the sooner, by the help of the Moisture, and Virtue it sucks from them, and as the Tree thrives those Plants perish. For the same reason Cloves are ill Neighbours to full Vessels. The Ring Doves, whereof there are great numbers in Gilolo, eat many of those Cloves which grow Old upon the Tree, then flying they purge in the Air with the Motion, and from their Excrements dropping on the Ground Clove Trees grow up. Heaven has given them so plentifully only to these Islands, abstractly from all the World beside; being at first not valu’d, or known by the Natives. This is what they would have destroy’d by Fire, that it might be totally annihilated; because the Flames gather more Strength among combustible Matter, than other Violences, to which sublunary things are subject.

Since we are now upon the Description of the Moluccos, and in regard Moluccos describ’d. that those delightful Provinces are so remote from us, we will go on with what is remarkable in them, to show the desperate Fury of those People, who had condemn’d them to the Flames. All the five Molucco Islands are almost round, and of the same Shape. The compass of the biggest is not seven Leagues. They have all Crags, of a wonderful Height, cover’d with an odoriferous Fragrancy of wild Cloves; and about them several Cities, Towns and Forts. Their exact Roundness is the Reason they have no good Harbours for both the Monsons of Norwest and South. Only Ternate forms the Port they call Talangame, and a League from it, that of Toloco, where Ships ride safe, and with their Boats close to the Shore. The Forts were not erected in either of them, because they should not be remote from the King’s Court. Both these Ports look to the Eastward, and have ridges of Rocks that break off the Sea, and secure the Vessels. That of Ternate, opposite to the Fort admits of Caravels, at high Water and spring-Tides, which being unloaded ride where they will. This Ridge of Rocks is of a sort of Stone, that turns into Coral, which when old hardens, and shooting out many Branches, knits together, and turns again into Stone, whereof excellent Lime is made. It is so contriv’d that those who come to it by Sea, think they see noble Structures erected for the Defence of the Harbour. The Mountain, which rises in the midst of Ternate, two Burning Mountain. Leagues in Height, and cover’d with Palm, and other rare Trees, has on the Top of it a Mouth or Cave, that seems to reach down to the very Center. A Man can hardly be seen from the one side to the other. Within it is a Square Spot, like a Threshing-Floor, made of Stones and loose Earth. Some curious Persons have view’d it, and among them one Gabriel Rebelo Factor, and Alcayde of the Fort; who having sounded it, tying together several long Fishing-Lines, found it was 500 Fath. deep. At the Bottom gushes out a beautiful Spring, tho’ no Man has dar’d to Tast of it, or try whether it is Sweet or Sower. The loose Floor shakes with the Fire in the Bowels of the Mountain; whereof the first Account was given by Anthony Galvam, who Observ’d it in the Year 1538, when he was Commander in Chief over these Islands. He went up to see that Wonder in Nature, at a safe Time, for he could not have done it in April, or September, when the Sun moves from one Hemisphere to the other, and crosses the Equinoctial, which cuts half a Degree of Ternate, because of the Winds then kindling the Flames. Had Pliny, when he went out of Curiosity to see the Burning of Mount Vesuvius, in Italy, taken another opportunity, he had not been Burnt to Death, as his Nephew writ to Cornelius Tacitus. It stinks, and casts out Smoke, Sulphur, and Red-Stones, as it were out of the Mouth of a Canon; shewing the Mountain to be hollow at the Foundation. It causes Earthquakes, and Noise; and the Flames, and burnt Stones, have reach’d to the City, and Fort, and even to the Islands of the Meaos and Casures, twenty Leagues from Ternate. The Smoke is of several Colours, because the Moisture and Corruption of the Earth exhales it thick, and diversify’d, which is help’d by the ill Quality of the Air, and that, with the falling of the Excrements the Fire casts out upon the Springs, corrupts the Waters, and destroys Health. Going up this Mountain two thirds of the Height, it is all Green and Fruitful; but the Top is excessive Cold, without any sort of Fowl, or Birds, but abundance of Flyes. Thence is descry’d a spacious Sea, and an infinite Number of Islands; because the Purity of the Air, free from Exhalations, as is said of the Top of Mount Olympus, represents curious Objects to the Sight, and favours it without any Let, the greater part of the Year. Where the Thickness of the Trees Terminates, a Spring of fresh Water gushes out, so very cold that there is no Drinking of it, but by Sips. At the Top, some distance from the Mouth, which casts out the Flames, they at this time tore away a piece of the Mountain, whence for two Days abundance of Water flow’d; great pieces of Rocks roul’d down the side of the Hill, to the Sea; forming Concavities, and bearing down Trees, and Ruins. The same Mountain, on the Top, has a spacious sweet Pool, encompass’d with Trees, wherein there are blew, and gold-Colour Alligators, above a Fadom long, who, as soon as they hear People stirring, plunge down to the Bottom.

These Islands know no Difference of Summer and Winter; nor is there Seasons. any settled Rainy Season, but it generally Rains more with the North-East, than with the South Wind. The Molucco Islands breed Snakes above 30 Snakes. Foot long, and proportionably thick; but they are neither Quick of Motion, nor Venomous. Those who have seen them affirm, That when they want Sustenance, they chew a certain Herb Nature has shown them, and climbing the Trees by the Sea-side, cast into it what they have chew’d; many Fishes come to Eate it, and being made Drunk, lye helpless upon the Water; then the Snakes launch out upon them, and satisfy their Hunger, till they are full of those stupify’d Fishes. The Crocodils on the Land are Crocodils. the fiercest of Monsters; the Ancients write almost the contrary of those of the Nile. These in the Sea are so Timorous, that they suffer themselves to be bound under Water. A Crocodile has been taken that had four Eyes, and a very little Heart. Here are also found certain Insects, which they Insect. call Cuzos, living on Trees, on whose Fruit they feed: They are like Rabbits, their Hair thick, harsh, and curl’d, of a brightish Brown; their Eyes round and sprightly; their Feet small; and a very long Tail, by which they hang, the better to reach the Fruit; and they stink like Foxes.

In the Desert Parts there are Wild-Fowl; some of the Tame are the same we have in Europe. The Parots, in their Tongue call’d Nores, of several Parots. Colours intermixt, Cry excessively, but Talk well. An Islander affirms, That at this time, when the People were Conspiring, a Parrot in the Air cry’d, I Dye, I Die; and beating his Wings, fell down Dead. A Relation tells us of another, that came from Amboyna, on the Mast of a small Vessel, when they went to take him, he cry’d out, Sebastian, Sebastian, who was his Master, and came to his assistance. There are great flocks of Birds and Fishes. black Geese, with Parrots Feet; Martins, Swallows, Feldefares, Thrushes, and Sparrow-Hawks. The variety of Fish is infinite; the Sea-Cow, like that of Brazil; a sort of Crab, one part whereof Eaten, kills in 24 Hours; this is on the Sea-shore, under certain Trees, whose shade suffers no Grass or Herb to grow; those who Sleep in it Sicken, and it dries and parches up the very Ground. There is another sort of Crabs, not unlike Lobsters, but with less Claws; they have strong white Teeth, with which they break the Shels, to eat the Almonds; they breed among Rocks, are taken at Night with Light; their Body, Claws, and all the Flesh, is like that of a Lobster. Near the Tail they have a Bag, full of a certain Substance delicious to the Tast, for which they are as much valu’d as Pullets.

Strange Sticks. All over the Moluccos there grows a sort of reddish Sticks, which burn in the Fire, raise a Flame, and are like a burning Cole, without wasting; They look to be of a Stony Nature, moulder away betwixt the Fingers, and are easily broken by the Teeth. Not far from the Fort of Ternate, is to Tree of Butter-Flies. be seen the Plant call’d Catopa, from which there drop Leaves less than the common sort; the Stem whereof, on a sudden, is form’d into the Head of a Worm, or Butter-Fly; the Body and Fibers coming from it, make Feet, and the Leafy Part, Wings; so that it soon becoms a perfect Butter-Fly, and at the same time a Leaf. This Tree buds out every Year, like a Chestnut-Tree, and from the Buds proceed these Worms, which run upon Threads fastened to the Leaves. Nature was profuse with those People; especially as to the Cloves, which I distinguish from the Long-Peper Pliny perhaps spoke of, when he nam’d the Garyophillum. But since the Profit of that so highly valu’d Product, was to occasion such bloody Wars, such incredible Voiages, from all Parts of the World, that the real Dangers, are even beyond human Belief; it may well be controverted, whether it were A good Remark. most for the publick Tranquility, that this Spice should be known, or ever conceal’d; for its Plenty and Virtue, which awaken’d the Avarice of the remotest Nations, has glutted those Seas with the Wracks of Ships, and Fleets, and call’d thither Armies of Rebels, making their passage through Streights before unknown, in the Sight of Mountains cover’d with blew Ice and Snow, as never reach’d by the Suns bright Beams; and yet they venture at all, not out of any Zeal of promoting Religion, or Civility, but only to load with that Spice, which has occasion’d Disobedience and Superstition. This is the precious Commodity, which gives Power and Wealth to those Kings, and causes their Wars. A Wonder of Nature, which plainly shows it has created nothing so harmless, but what is abus’d by human Malice. This is the true Fruit of Discord, rather than the fabulous Apple of the three Godesses, since for it there has been, and still is, more Fighting, than for the Mines of Gold. Had this happen’d in the Days of the Greek, or Latin Poets, how much more would thay have spoken of our Moluccos, than they did of the Islands Gorgones in the Ethiopick Ocean? Let us stop a little to reflect on the Dangers Mortals expose themselves to, rather, perhaps, to please their wanton Appetites, than to confirm their Health.

The Confederates meet. The People of Ternate, Tydore, Bachian, and all the Neighbouring Princes, being impatient to put in Execution their desperate Design, chose the King of Tydore for their Head, to joyn with him of Ternate, that had been expell’d on account of the Death of Gonzalo Pereyra. Among the Relations usually collected by the Christian Curiosity of the Religious Men of the Society, we find that these Kings met in the little Island, which divides Ternate from Tydore, before they went each of them to his proper Post for performing what was stipulated in the Confederacy, and there the King of Tydore, as Chief of the League, spoke to them in this Manner. I cannot mention the Occasion of this our Union, without shedding Tears, for the Joy King of Tydore’s Speech. of the Success, which we look upon as present, produces the same Effects it would do, were we already Victorious. Our Forces are assembled to deliver us from the Spanish Yoke, punishing those Men with the Hazard of our Total Ruin, whom neither our Benefits could oblige, nor our Threats correct. They are the great Robbers of the World, who usurp it, by shrowding their Avarice under specious and godly Pretences. In vain have we endeavour’d to moderate their Pride by Means of our Modesty and Submission. If they meet with Wealthy Enemies, the Portugeses show themselves Covetous, if with Needy, they are Ambitious; this is the only Nation that equally seeks after others Wealth and Miseries. They rob, kill, and subdue, taking away our Dominions under false Titles, and think they have no settled Peace, till they have reduc’d the Provinces into Desarts. We possess the most fruitful Islands in Asia, only to purchase Servitude and base Subjection with their Product, converting this blessed Bounty of Heaven into Tribute paid to the Ambition of Intruding Tyrants. Experience has show’d us, how odious our Valour has been to the Christian Commanders, whom, for the same Reason, we must never hope to find more modest, or less our Enemies. Assure your selves then, and remember, both Kings and Subjects, both you who seek Glory, and you who provide for your Safety, that neither of these is to be had without Liberty, nor this without War; nor is the War to be maintain’d without Courage and Unanimity. The Power of the Portugueses is increased, and on it their Reputation depends. Having then discover’d the Mystery, and Cause of this Tyranny, who is there that will not prepare to try the utmost of Fortune, to purchase the greatest of human Felicities, which is Liberty. Other Nations, which when they hear of our Resolution, will call it Despair and Savageness; if they weigh it with the Occasion, will rather Commend than go about to find Excuses for us. Besides, every Man knows what is fit for his Religion, his Honour and his Country, better than those who judge of these Things at a Distance. In short, What is Life worth without Liberty?

Those incensed Kings made suitable Returns to these Words, and having taken proper Measures to commence and carry on the War, went away in their Vessels, without losing Time, or admitting of Delay; as well knowing the many Dangers a great Undertaking is expos’d to, which depends on Secrecy, and is imparted to many.

On the Day appointed, all the Natives departed the City of Ternate, Ternate City abandon’d and burnt. with their Families, not in good Order, as in Transmigrations, but raging, in Confusion, and loaded with their Children, and a few Necessaries, having before sent away their Effects to other Islands. To convince the Portugueses of their Design, and that the People of Ternate abandon’d the Country, they set Fire to the City in several Places; the Flames began to take hold and spread, till they met, and of many small ones became one general Conflagration, with hideous Noise and Cries; for not only the Houses were burnt, which had for so many Ages belong’d to their Forefather, and Ancestors, but all that attracts the Affection to our Native Country, the Temples, all their worldly Treasure, and the Bounty of Nature; for the open Country began now to feel the Desolation, the Caves, Lakes and Springs, the Rocks, and the very Sea it self shin’d, boil’d up and crack’d, and the Fire receiv’d into the subterraneous Caverns, lying in the hollow Mountains, pierced into the deepest Recesses, roaring and overturning Stones and Trees. In the mean while, the People travell’d towards the Desarts, looking back to view the Effects of their Revenge.

Resolution of the People. Tristan de Atayde, amaz’d to behold that dreadful Practice, having arm’d some Soldiers, sent Messages to The Queen and Governours, to propose some Accommodation, and appease that inhumane Rage. He promis’d to make Satisfaction, and that all Things should be set right, but it avail’d nothing; for they rather grew more furious, and would not hearken to any Proposal, or admit of Treaty, that might make them slacken in their Resolution. Being come to those Places which Nature has made strong among the Rocks, they arm’d, and in Parties fell upon the Christians, lying in wait for them when they went out for Wood or Water, and killing or wounding them by Surprize. The Edict was put in Execution throughout all the Islands at the same Time, destroying all the Portugueses that were in them. In the City Momoya, they kill’d eight that were with F. Portugueses slaughter’d. Francis Alvarez, but he fled to a Ship, after receiving several Wounds. In the Island of Chion, the Head of Moratay; they also slew the Priest, Simon Vaz; an Infidel rushing into his Chamber, broke in Pieces the Picture of the Blessed Virgin, he found there painted on a Board; but Heaven suffer’d him not to go unpunish’d, for his Hands drop’d off on the Spot, and he dy’d a few Days after. It was further observ’d, that within a Year there was not one left alive of all his Race, which was destroy’d in War, and by other Misfortunes and Calamities; as the last of them was fishing, a Needle Fish sprung out of the Water, and struck him with the Snout in the Eye, whereof he dyed. The whole Town perished miserably within a few Years. Tristan de Atayde soon receiv’d the News of this Slaughter of the Portugueses, and so successively of the others, throughout all the Islands. He encourag’d his Men, and labour’d to hide his Concern for being shut up among so many Enemies; he regulated the Distribution of Provisions; sent out several Spies, to get Information of the Enemies Motions and Designs: and order’d the Guard upon King Aerio, who was in the Fort, to be always watchful, for the more Security, leaving only the Nurses, and other Women that attended him. Then he again employ’d other Persons to propose a Peace to the Queen, and the King of Tydore, with ample Commission to offer advantageous Conditions, which were to be immediately perform’d; but all prov’d ineffectual, for an Accident which soon happen’d confirm’d the Enemies Obstinacy.

Catabruno, Governour of Gilolo, and Tutor to the Infant King, finding King of Tydore poison’d. his Usurpation establish’d by Time, and a good Disposition in the Minds of his Accomplices, poison’d the King; and possessing himself of the Palace and Forts, ascended the Throne, making the Subjects swear Allegiance to him. Tho’ no Man in all those Eastern Parts expected any other Event, yet was it look’d upon as most certain, that Tristan de Atayde was consenting to the Poisoning, and his Usurpation; besides other Circumstances produc’d so prove his Guilt, it was notorious, that Atayde sent Catabruno a Robe of blew Velvet, which he wore the Day he rebell’d, and was sworn King. God so order’d it, that as soon as he was possess’d of the Kingdom, he broke his Faith with Tristan de Atayde, and confederated with the other United Princes, proving the greatest Enemy the Portugueses had; for he fitted out numerous Fleets wherewith he warr’d on all the Christians of those Islands, threatning and tormenting them that they might renounce their Faith.

At this time the Governour of India, tho’ there were some Troubles at Galvam sent to govern the Moluccos. Goa, and in other Places, sent Succours to Ternate, because it was towards the End of Summer, and one must of Necessity go to succeed the Governour. Antony Galvam was the Man appointed, who laid out above 10000 Ducats of his own towards restoring the Places that had been burnt, by which it may be truly said, he redeem’d the Moluccos. He was desirous, not only to People, but even to enlarge Ternate, and to this Purpose he treated with some poor marry’d Men, and needy Families, to go over with him and their Wives and Children to those Islands; the same he did with Men and Women, who were lewd Livers, that they might mend their Lives in another Country, and embrace the legal State of Matrimony; to which End, he lent them Money, and provided Necessaries for their Voyage. In the meanwhile, the Tyrant Catabruno, assembled his Forces, and mov’d against the City Momoya, where the Sangiack of it liv’d, who had been before an ignorant Idolater, but then a Christian Prince. He finding himself inferiour in Power, retired into a Fort, with his Wife, Children Momoya taken. and Family. Some Portugueses sent him by Tristan de Atayde, not daring to trust themselves shut up there with him, withdrew into the Mountains, where they were soon kill’d, pursuant to the Edict of the League. Catabruno enter’d the City, without any Opposition, where he exercis’d his Cruelty, because the wretched Inhabitants would not quit it; and many new converted Christians recanted for Fear, or thro’ the Violence of Torments. Being Master of the City, he laid Seige to the Fort, giving it several furious Assaults, which Don John withstood, making a resolute Defence, and in some Sallies return’d Victorious; yet his Example prevailed Amazing Action of an Indian Convert. not on his People, as it usually does where it meets with generous Souls; so that this Prince soon discover’d how faint-hearted most of them were; he suspected that servile Fear would degenerate to such Baseness, that they would deliver him up to his Enemy, and therefore like a brave Man, he presently bent his Thoughts to secure the Salvation of his Soul. He knew Catabruno valu’d himself upon his Zeal for the Law of Mahomet, and therefore spar’d the Lives of all Christians that Apostatiz’d, putting to Death such as prov’d stanch and constant; he fear’d his Wife and Children, being pusilanimous, would fail in the Confession of their Faith, and being fill’d with this Spirit, drew his Cimiter, ran to them, and shedding Tears, which were not the Effect of Cowardice, slew them one after another, first telling them his Reasons for so doing, and that tho’ in the Eyes of the World he might appear inhumane, yet considering the Salvation of their Souls, what he did was a Religious Magnanimity, and therefore they ought rather to thank him for it. This was a mistaken Notion; and to go through stitch with it, he would, still persisting in the same Error, have kill’d himself, but that he was hinder’d by his own Servants, who to purchase the Tyrant’s Pardon, deliver’d up to him that Christian Prince, who had been so ill advis’d by his Zeal. Being brought before Catabruno, who was inform’d how cruelly he had slain his Wife and Children, he ask’d him, Why he had undertaken so barbarous and inhumane an Action? Don John answer’d him with great Courage and Undauntedness. At that Time, and in my Thoughts, I had more regard to the Salvation of their Souls, than to the preserving of their Lives. I mistrusted His Words. the Sex, their Age, and your Torments, and would not hazard their persisting in the true Faith. Souls are Immortal, and I took nothing from my Children that they can feel the want of, or which Time, or your Sword would not have depriv’d them of; the latter we should all have been thankful to, as the Instrument of the Divine Will. But I much more dreaded your Pardon and Mercy, by which you might have perverted their Minds, with those Soothings which please frail Mortality. I being more resolute, tho’ expos’d to all your Fury, am so far from fearing the Effects, either of your Torments or Intreaties, that I shall look upon you as God’s Executioner, and were it his Will, that you should take away my Life, I should receive a greater Benefit from your Sword, than from your Mercy. Catabruno, enrag’d at his Answer, order’d him to be kill’d; but the Tyrant’s own Friends, who lov’d Don John, the Sangiack, carry’d him out of the Room, and contriv’d he should have his Liberty, and be restor’d. Their Intreaties prevail’d on Catabruno, and he liv’d many Years after in his own Dominions, with a Christian Constancy, confessing his indiscreet Zeal, which had caused his own Sword to deprive him of Wife and Children. A Mind truly worthy the best Part of Europe, and not to be the Product of the most remote barbarous Nations; and highly commendable, had it been directed by more solid Rules, to curb that Fierceness, so opposite to all natural and divine Laws, which looks upon such horrid Murders, as a Piece of Piety.

Tristan de Atayde was troubl’d at these Misfortunes, which were almost Several Actions. under his Eyes; tho’ he wanted not for others nearer, for the People of Ternate being now Masters of the Island, burnt all the new and old Towns, belonging either to themselves, or the Christians, and amongst others, those of Trutupalate, Calamata, and Isico, yet they met with brave Opposition in them all, and they cost much Blood. Twice our Men went out to Fight the Tydore Fleet, which came within sight of the Fort, and tho’ they both times retir’d Shatter’d, and well Beaten, the Barbarians had not much cause to Boast of their Victory, for Abundance of them were kill’d, and scarce any went off unhurt. The Confederates fitted out other numerous Fleets, wherewith they much Streightened the Christians in the Fort, till Antony Galvam arriv’d, who was at this time Sailing. But Relief came before, Don Stephen de Gama, sending a Galeon laden with Provisions and Ammunition to Ternate, under the Command of Simon Sodre. The Galeon arriv’d safe, and with it the Support of those Disconsolate People. They took Heart, and ventur’d to go abroad, spreading themselves about the Island, and going into the Woods, met with ruin’d Buildings, the remains whereof still smoked, and when it was Dark, they observ’d the high Flames on the Mountains. However they made Incursions upon the Barbarians and throughout all the Islands there were hourly Engagements, either with the Christian Inhabitants, or the Soldiers of the Forts; and at Sea they heard the Martial Musick, which Sounded whilst they Sail’d, or Fought Manfully, and at that time was dreadful.

In the mean while Captain Alvarado, a Spanish Gentleman, sent by Ferdinand Cortes to Ternate, that the Valour he had shown in those Parts, serving Spaniards at the Papuas. God and his King, might not lie idle, discover’d the Islands of the Papuas, and fought those Barbarians with Resolution, tho’ the Portuguese Histories assign the Honour of this Discovery to Don George de Meneses who arriv’d at them in the Year 1526, as we have seen. The great Commander Alvarado also Discover’d other Islands, call’d Gelles, in one Degree of North Latitude, and East from Ternate, 125 Leagues from Batochina. The Natives of those Islands are like those of the Moluccos in Colour, Habit, and Customs, differing only in Language, which is peculiar to themselves.

Antony Galvam sail’d from Malaca with the proper Monson, with Galvam Fights at Sea. the Men, and all Necessaries to fight, and settle Colonies. When he was past the Island Borneo, and the ridges or Rocks which lie under Water, in sight of that Coast, as F. Marta, the Jesuit, writes to the Governor Gomez Perez, and appears by his Papers, in Sight of Malaca he Discover’d a great Fleet of Carcoas, and other Chinese Ships, with Sails made of Canes, and Palm-Tree Leaves wove together. He was soon satisfy’d, that they were the Auxiliaries which had joyn’d the Janguas of Tydore and Catabruno, who, with the expell’d King of Ternate, were Cruzing to meet the Portugueses, or Spaniards, that should come into their Seas. Galvam order’d his Men to be in a Readiness, to clear his Guns, and prepare all Things, doing the Duty of a Commander, and of a Soldier. The Enemy drew up in three Lines, each of its particular Nation, as if the Portugueses had many Ships. He was himself in the Trading Galeon, and with it a Pink, and another small Vessel, wherein, among the Marry’d Men, and Families unfit for that Service, there were some few that could take up Arms. The Infidels drew near, but without Artillery, the Gilolo Archers let fly a great number of Arrows upon our Men, and then one Line shearing off, the other discharg’d, the Air resounding, being peirc’d by the Darts, and Calabays, or Staves hardned at the Fire. Galvam not regarding the Danger, tho’ at first he defended himself with Fights and Planks; when he thought they had spent most of those flying-Weapons, among which they fir’d some Muskets, he began to play his great Guns, tearing their Vessels, and destroying the Men. He Sunk a considerable number, and Took several, because they fought disorderly, relying, as it were a Land-fight, on the Multitude of their Soldiers, as ours did on their Valour, and Experience. But Galvam, whose Business it was to get to Ternate, held on his Voyage, and arriv’d Arrives at Ternate. there as he desir’d. His Men landed in that dismal Solitude, among Smoke and Ruins. The Joy of those who were in the Fort, and the extraordinary Relief, coming quite unhop’d for, were an Encouragement to them all. The Clergy came out to receive him, the Soldiers shouting amidst the Divine Hymns, confounding the Procession, and their Satisfaction. It was a Pleasure to behold, and they gazed on him as a Deliverer sent from Heaven. Tristan de Atayde resign’d his Post, and Antony Galvam took Possession, enquir’d into the Nature of the Confederacy, and the Fame of his Arrival being spread Abroad, Things began to mend. To this Purpose he arrested Tristan de Atayde, and afterwards sent him to Goa. He had before sent Messengers to the Queen, to acquaint her with his Arrival, and the End of it, which was to serve her, and retrieve all the Mischiefs an inordinate Desire of Revenge had occasion’d. In the mean while he began to repair the City, the Colonies, Churches, Keys, and Houses, distributing those Families he had brought with him. Nor did he neglect Husbandry, but planted Vines brought from Portugal, which he soon saw grown up into substantial Vinyards. He deliver’d to the Clergy the new Constitutions drawn up by Cardinal Henry, afterwards the last K. of the House of Portugal. He offer’d Peace to all that would comply, sent Religious Men to inculcate to those who liv’d like Outlaws, the Love of their Country, its re-establishment, and how dishonourable it was to them to make choice of a Life like that of wild Beasts, only for a cruel Satisfaction.

Strength of the Natives. The Queen, who not to speak of her natural Fierceness, expected to see her Son restor’d, and set at Liberty, and to drive away the Portugueses, would not give Ear to any Accommodation. The greatest Burden of the War lay then upon Tydore, where the Confederate Kings, with the deposed Dayalo, a most Fierce Man, gather’d above Fifty Thousand Fighting Men; but they had not yet enclosed that City with a Wall and Ditch, being satisfy’d with having built a Fort upon high Rocks, whence they spread abroad to pick up the Fishermen, and other Portugueses that went out from Ternate to get Provisions, and thence they infested that dangerous Coast. Galvam fearing lest the Prolonging of the War should reduce him to the former difficulties, sent other Messengers to treat of Peace, and perswade those obstinate Kings, to Publish an Oblivion of all past Wrongs, without taking Notice of the late engagement, offering them mighty Presents, to purchase Commerce at the Price of them. They being puffed up with some good Success, and their mighty Power; would not hearken to any Proposals Peace; but on the contrary, as Maffæus Writes, they return’d an Answer very abusive to the Portugueses. Galvam imploring the Assistance of Heaven, so managed the Affair, that it was look’d upon as amazing, even by such as view Things impartially. Nor would it be credible, unless comfirm’d Galvam sails over to Attack them. by other Enterprizes of his suitable to this. He had only four Tall Ships, and a few smaller Vessels in the Port; these he speedily form’d into a Squadron, putting in 400 Men, 170 of them Portugueses, the rest to make up the Number, Slaves, and the common sort of Ternate. He left Tristan de Atayde with some Men to defend the Fort, and secure Sultan Aerio, and sail’d away himself for Tydore, without meeting any Enemy, the reason of it not known, and lay by in a safe Place, about a Musket-shot from that Island. Being come to an Anchor, he took a full View of the Multitude that guarded the Shores, considering the Nature of the Country, and Situation of the City. Having called a Council of War, he resolv’d to Storm the Fort on the high Rock, then little regarded, the Confederates thinking themselves safe. He made a Speech to them in plain Terms, without any Rhetorical Ornaments. These are the same People, said he, we have so newly Vanquish’d, to restore whom to the Liberty they desire, would be a matter of small moment, did they when possessed of it allow the Freedom of preaching the Gospel. This is the Cause we are imbark’d in. Who then can doubt of Victory, or not wish to Die for the obtaining of it? As these Enemies are the same we Defeated, so are we the same Victors; so that I need not have Recourse to Foreign Examples, to encourage you. Their Disobedience and Restlessness is of a long standing; it will be but reasonable that our Arms add one Victorious Day to so many Turbulent Years, that so we may lay the Ax to the Root of Rebellion. They call us Tyrants; that does not at all trouble me; because after the Victory, we shall have the Opportunity of dispelling that Slander by our Moderation.

They would not suffer Galvam to put an end to his Speech, all of them The manner of the Attack. pressing earnestly to Fight, and he resolving to make himself Master of the Rock, as he had contriv’d, pick’d out 120 Portugueses, and made out 300 from among the Rest, leaving the Remainder to secure the Ships, and keep the Enemy in Play, if they should attack them; making show of a greater Number, by appearing in several Places, and shouting, by which such as fear are easily imposed upon. In the mean while, Galvam having taken a Native of Tydore, and oblig’d him to serve for a Guide, set out at the fourth Watch in the Night with his Men, through by-ways remote from the City, over-grown with Brambles, and scarce practicable, and with the greatest silence he could came to the Top of the Mountain. The Portugueses had march’d the greatest Part of the Way by the first Dawn of Day, and resting them a little from the Fatigue, descry’d the Enemy’s shining Helmets and their Feathers on them. Galvam then beginning, all the rest raised the Cry, To Arms, to Arms. The Confederates, with Horrid Shouts, which resounded on the Rocks, and in the Woods, made ready for their Defence, notwithstanding the surprize; but soon perceived they should fall a Prey to our Men. The Fight began, and King Dayalo, enrag’d for that he had been depos’d, appear’d the foremost with some Troops, to secure the Passes, and advanced to meet the Portugueses in a Plain. They avoided him not, and both Parties mixing, much Blood was spilt. Dayalo was visible by his bright Helmet, adorn’d with Variety of standing high Feathers, King of Ternate Kill’d. and his Body cover’d with a Steel Coat of Mail, brandishing with both Hands a Lance, as like a small Yard of a Ship, and charging with desperate Fury; but happ’ning to rush in among our Pikes and Musketiers, unadvisedly, he receiv’d several Wounds on all Sides, and fell down raging. He was wonderful strong, and started up immediately; concealing his Wounds and Pain, and beginning a fresh Charge in the first Ranks, for fear of discouraging his Men. He Fought a considerable Time; but not being Dress’d, and the Action causing the Blood to run the faster, his Eye sight fail’d him, and he dropt a second Time, saying to his Guards, Move hence as fast as you can, and carry me carefully that the Dogs, so he call’d the Portugueses, may not have the Satisfaction of cutting my Body in Pieces. His Soldiers did so, not without great Danger; and he soon after he had been carry’d off, gave up his haughty Soul. His Forces daunted by this Accident, turn’d their Backs, hiding themselves among the Rocks and Brambles, The Indians routed. throwing down their Arms, and getting off through almost inaccessible Ways. Others return’d to the City, and meeting some Troops that march’d to their Assistance, made them return another Way. The Portugueses follow’d the Chace, killing such as fled, and Galvam came to the Fort, with the Loss of only one Slave. This Victory, which happen’d on the Feast of St. Thomas, the Apostle, in the Year 1537, humbled the Pride of the Confederates; was ascrib’d to the Intercession of that Apostle, and they observ’d a solemn Thanksgiving. The Fort was fired with good Advice, for the Citizens and Traders, seeing the Flames so near, abandon’d their Houses, and departed the City with the flying Multitude. Galvam was now coming down from the Hill, having drawn together his Men, and form’d them into small Bodies, with sound of Trumpets and Singing, to make his Victorious Entry into that City, now void of Defendants, and full of Wealth. Considering that the Avarice of the Victorious Soldiers spur’d them on to take Possession of that inestimable Booty, for all the Tydore burnt. Merchants had brought their Effects to Tydore, as the safest Place. Galvam order’d to set Fire to the Houses, all which were consum’d with their harmless Treasure, in Sight of those who had hop’d to be Masters of it; only the Provisions being providentially sav’d.

Of the People of Tydore as many were taken as did not in Time save themselves by Flight; as also a Junk in the Port, and several other small Vessels. The Enemies afterwards perish’d in other smaller Actions. The daunted King, hasted Home to secure their own Lands, disolving the Confederacy, and being sufficiently warn’d, gave Ear to, and Peace concluded. embrac’d Proposals of Peace; taking leave of him of Tydore, and agreeing with Galvam, whose Vertue and Discretion gain’d so much upon Cachil Rade, that King’s Brother, that he came to a Conference with him and concluded a Peace upon certain Conditions. The King of Tydore oblig’d himself to restore Galvam the Cannon; not to assist the Enemies of Portugal; not to permit the Clove to be dispos’d of into any other Hands than the Portuguese Officers; and to sell it as was usual at Ternate. Galvam went over next to subdue Gilolo, and the other Kings, all which he compass’d successfully. The Queen also submitted, either on Account of the King of Tydore’s Falshood, or that, as she said, she grew weary of the War, or else because the depos’d King was kill’d. Catabruno was appeas’d by Galvam’s good Behaviour, and accepted of Conditions, among which the chiefest was, that Galvam should set Sultan Aerio at Liberty. Thus the Confederacy was dissolv’d, and the Maluccos laying down Arms, submitted again. Provisions were furnish’d as before, and the Crops, and Trade of Spice were restor’d.

Sultan Aerio King of Ternate. Sultan Aerio attended by the Christians and Gentiles, Dancing, and making other demonstrations of Joy, went from the Fort to his Palace, where he remain’d with his Guard, and Family. Before he Marry’d, tho’ he never wanted for Concubines, he in Person took a Progress to the principal places in his Dominions of Ternate, Moutil, and Machian. Those in the Fort attended and assisted him, together with the Sangiacks, who went all about that Archipelago, first on that side they call Del Moro, that is towards Batochina, and is distant from the Moluccos 60 Leagues Northward, beginning at the Isles of Doe, two Leagues to the Point of Bicoe. All these are Inhabited by Wild People.

Batochina, that is Gilolo describ’d. Batochina is 250 Leagues in Compass, and Subject to two Kings, which are those of Gylolo, and Lolada. This last is Ancienter than all those of the Moluccos, or in those Seas, and formerly was the most Powerful; but now the Weakest. The Inhabitants of the North part of Batochina are Savage, without any King, Laws, or Towns, living in Deserts. Those on the East-side have populous Towns, on the Sea Shore; and tho’ they speak several Languages, yet they understand one another. This Coast they call’d Morotia, that is, Land Moor. The other Islands opposite are call’d Morotay, that is, Sea-Moor, and all those Isles breed deceitful, brutal and dastardly Men. Only the City Moncoya is Warlike. It ever wanted Laws, Weights, Measures, Coin, Gold, Silver, and all other Metals, and a King; but it is overstock’d with Provisions, Arms, Idols, and Devils speaking in them. The Women Till the Land. Each of these Towns is Govern’d by a Magistrate chosen by the People; they pay him no Taxes, but have Regard to his Descent. The Molucco Kings conquer’d them, and every one kept what he could get; the better part belongs to him of Ternate, and less to the King of Tydore, whose Dominions were enlarg’d by the Power of Spain. They went on to establish their Possessions among the Papuas, or Papous, East from the Moluccos, being Islands little resorted to, because many of them are all encompass’d with Flats and Shoals. The Natives of them are Black, like the Cafres; they wear their Hair wound about in large curl’d Papuas, or Papous. Locks, their Visages lean and ugly. The Name of Papuas in their Language signifies Blacks, being a stern People, enur’d to Labour, and fit for any piece of Treachery. All their Islands are subject to Kings, and abound in Gold, which they do not Transport, because no Man lays up any more of it than is us’d in their Ornaments. Among these Black-men there are some as White and fair as the Germans; if these go out in the Sun, they are struck blind, tho they do not look at it. Those in Spain are call’d Albinos; yet some of them are strong, and can behold any Object. Among these Papuas there are many deaf. As to the Extent of this Country, if we may believe the Accounts of Spanish Pilots, who have sail’d that way, these Islands run along a vast Continent, which terminates at the Streights of Magellan. These Kings entertain Friendship with Ternate, whither they sent Embassadors, and as much as was here subject to the Moluccos, had no Share in the desperate Fury of the League. So did those of Celebes to the Westward, being many notable Islands, the great Island Celebes it self, as also Mindanas; so those of Bisaya, abounding in Iron; Mascaga, and Masbate, which have much Gold, as well as Mindanas; that of Sologo, and others producing Provisions, Spice, Sanders, Eaglewood, Other Islands. Cinnamon, Camphire, Tortoshell, Ginger, and Long Pepper. Some of these Islands are subject to the King of Borneo, others to those of Tydore and Bachian, but the most to him of Ternate. The People are generally treacherous; many of them go naked, painting their Bodies in Falcage, and other Figures; their Hair long, hanging on their Backs, or else knotted, and cut short over the Forehead, like our Peasants; their Faces large; their Teeth well shap’d and black; and their Ears bor’d. The Natives of Celebes. Celebes are filthy, and vile in their Behaviour; the Æquinoctial passes over their Island, which is full of little Towns; a whole Race living in every House. On their Walls they hang the Hair of those they have kill’d in War; and the greatest number of them is most Honourable. There are among them several sorts of Monstrous Productions. One of these is a Tree bearing a vast Head, the shade whereof kills any Man that lyes down under it on the West-side, unless he immediately lye down on the East-side; the same shade at only a Yard distance being an Antidote against its opposite Malignity. In these Towns there are horrid Stews of Sodomy; tho there are no such at Ternate; but they have gone as far as Amboyna, which lyes South of it. Among the Moluccos there are many Islands subject to their own Chiefs, full of excellent Waters, and delightful Banks. Formerly they were free, afterwards conquer’d by the Kings of Ternate and Tydore; against whom they also rebell’d, and submitted to the Queen of Japara, and many Christian Towns were subject to the Portugueses. They yield above 2000 Hundred Weight of Cloves Yearly; which the Jaos are Masters of, none being to obstruct them; they go over and Barter, and carry it away in their Junks. We speak elsewhere of their Fertility. Our Relations tell us, they produce a fort of Reeds, or Canes, above fifty fathom long, and no thicker than a mans little finger. South from Amboyna lye the Islands of Banda; and about 300 Leagues to the Eastward; some affirm, there is one which is all over an entire Mine of Gold, and the Natives not above a Yard high. If this be so, and these the true Pigmies, who will look upon the Battels mention’d in Homer’s 3d Iliad, betwixt them and the Cranes, as Fabulous. Those scatter’d Dominions were again united and submitted to Sultan Aerio, whose Marriage Solemnities, Building of Masques, Publick Festivals, and other Works of Peace, we must pass over in silence, as not proper for our purpose, they being only a pleasing sort of Digressions.

Mezquita Governs at Ternate. The Kings of Portugal sent several Commanders in Chief to Ternate, and last in the Year 1570; James Lopez de Mezquita, who had commanded on the Molucco Seas, took Possession of the Fort. In his Time Sultan Aerio, a courteous and affable Man, continu’d in Subjection to Portugal, valuing himself upon being true to his Word in all his Actions. Nevertheless, there wanted not some ill-meaning Persons, who mislik’d his Government, and pretended that he did not exercise his Power legally. They said, he had given way to those Vices, into which luxurious Princes are wont to fall; those being generally the Fruits of a long Peace. They fancy’d, he retained the Memory of past Tragedies; and particularly his Mother’s inhuman End, and therefore persecuted our Religion; tho at the Pretences to destroy King Aerio. same Time the Memories of those Days do not charge him with any Temporal Disobedience, or want of Fidelity; but they rather compar’d him to Massinissa, King of Numidia; and say the Portugueses ought to have respected him, as the Romans did the other. The Commander hearing of those Abuses, and fearing greater might ensue, some Religious Men encreasing his Jealousie, he endeavour’d to redress them by Friendly Admonitions, and other Contrivances. Those Methods had no effect on him, for he answer’d, he was in his own Dominions, where, without offence to the Portuguese Sovereignty, he might live as he pleas’d. Mezquita resolving to try harsher means, since the others did not at all move the King, nor make him uneasie, as relying on his Innocency; began to deprive him of his Revenue, and the Income of the Spice; threatning also, that he would, in all other Respects, execute the last Will made by his Brother Tabarija, wherein he appointed the King of Portugal for his Heir; or at lest would treat him so like an inferior Person, that he should scarce be able to assume the Name of King; for such is the Punishment they are lyable to, who do not observe that Decorum which was inviolable in their Ancestors.

Cachil Babu, Son to Sultan Aerio, taking a Progress about this Time, through his Father’s Islands, a Subject came to complain to him against certain Portugueses, who had taken away his Daughter; for which fault he order’d them all to be kill’d, as if they had been accessary to the ravishing of the Maid. He had no Directions, nor so much as the consent of King Aerio for this exorbitant Command, which took no effect. On the contrary he afterwards so generously resented it, that he order’d the Prince to be seiz’d, and would have punish’d him severely, had he not been hindred by those the wrong was offer’d to. This plain Demonstration was The Portugueses seize and send him to Goa. not sufficient to divert the Portuguese Commander from imputing the Sons Fault to the Father, contrary to all Reason and Likelihood. All discreet Methods us’d by well-meaning Persons to reconcile them two, failing; James Lopez by his King’s Authority, which generally is most unreasonable, the farther it is from the Prince, from whom it is deriv’d, presum’d to imprison the Sultan; being dragg’d away from a Pleasure-House, where he was passing the Heat of the Day, among his Women; His Subjects lov’d him, and their Resentment for this wrong was proportionable to their Affection; nor did the Portugueses approve of the Fact. The Commander perceiving that all Men were against him, and that after all Enquiries and Examinations, the King’s Cause still appear’d the better, and his Fidelity was more visibly made out, he gave him his Liberty, to the great Satisfaction of his Kingdoms, which were attentive to the Event; but upon Condition he should go to Goa to clear himself, where he expected they would cut off his Head, upon the Informations he would send against him. The King set out, and before he came to Malaga, the Viceroy The Viceroy acquits him. writ to him, begging he would return to his Kingdom, for he was fully convinc’d of his Innocence, and promis’d to punish the Causer of those Troubles; but at that Time, for some Considerations, was satisfy’d with reproving him. The K. returning to Ternate, the Commander was sent Prisoner to Goa, and had been more severely punish’d; but that Fortune preserv’d him, to be an Instrument of the loss which has lasted till our Days.

Within a Year after his Imprisonment he was restor’d to his Command in Ternate, where be again practic’d against that King; for there are some Pretended Reconciliation. Dispositions which never part with the Jealousies they have once conceiv’d. Ternate was as it were the Metropolis in Religious matters, and King Aerio had never offer’d any Affront to us either in Spirituals or Temporals, for which Reason there never wanted some grave Persons in his Court. These Zealously reconcil’d them two, and that perfectly, as to outward Appearance, and that their renew’d Amity might be lasting, the King assur’d the Commander upon Oath, according to his Sect, that he would never privately harbour the least Jealousie of him; but before he admitted of any, would discover it to him, that so he might either receive, or make Satisfaction; to the end no Accidents might revive any Mistrusts. The Falshood of Mezquita. Commander made the King the same solemn Promise, both of them being thus pacify’d, and in the Opinion of all those who mediated betwixt them, so Friendly, that none could imagine such perfect Amity could ever be dissolv’d. But there being nothing less permanent among Men than Reconciliations, the Portuguese Commander reassuming the Hatred which never was extinct, or perhaps so much as lay’d aside, resolv’d to destroy Sultan Aerio when only five Days were elaps’d since the Re-establishment of their Friendship sworn to on both sides. This could not be kept so private, as not to come to the Sultan’s Ears; but the Consideration that he was a King, his own Sincerity, and the fresh Reconciliation, made him think he was secure. But if the Nature of Man be such as not to forgive when it has done a Wrong, what can be less secure than injur’d Innocence? The Commander feigns himself Sick, and sends to desire the King, that since he is not able to wait on him in his Palace, he will be pleas’d to honour him with a Visit in the Fort, there to confer with his Highness about some important Affairs which concern the King of Portugal, his Master, and are not fit to be communicated to any other. All the Answer the King return’d, was to go himself to Visit the Sick Man, tho’ he had Information better grounded than on bear Surmises, that Martin Antonio Pimentel, the Commanders Nephew, had Orders to murder him, as soon as ever he came into the Fort. Aerio’s Innocent Bravery. He could not prevail upon himself to believe a Treacherous Design; so far does Innocence prevail over a generous Soul. But when he saw that at the Gate, they stopp’d his Guards, the Sangiacks and Cachiles, that attended him, he then began to be convinc’d of the Villany, yet went on without being disorder’d, and showing an undaunted Countenance. And tho’ he could not forbear dropping some Tears, when he took leave of his Sons, however he presently compos’d his Countenance, so that he was not at all dismay’d, tho’ in the Commanders Nephew’s Looks he saw visible Tokens of his Unkles Commission. He would have complain’d to the Commander of the Disrespect of those who stopp’d his Attendance, but they would not suffer him to go on. The Mask being now laid aside, and the true Design appearing, in Violence he call’d out to the Sangiacks, but the Gate was shut against him and them. Pimentel came up to him with a Naked Ponyard, and begg’d his Pardon like an Executioner. The King, without showing any Surprize, or Disorder, Bid him consider what he was going to do; for there were many left to revenge his Death, besides his Sons and Subjects, all the Kings of the Archipelago, as well the Sovereigns who were in Alliance, as those who ow’d Fealty to the Crown of Portugal. This Instance, said he, will make them dread every Capricious Humour of a Commander in chief. If still that Jealousie survies, which has so often been prov’d groundless, I will deliver my self up to the King of Portugal; and if my Death be of such Consequence to you, yet respite the Execution but a little, for at my Age, Time will soon perform what your Swords are to do. They He is murder’d. now began to fall upon him, and he seeing a Brass Cannon, on which were the Arms of Portugal, clasping his Arms about it, said, Christians, at least show some respect to these Arms; for you kill a King that has paid the greatest Deference to your Crown. This last Testimony of his Innocence was of no Force to appease those Murderers; though formerly in Rome, the embracing the Statues of the Emperors was sufficient to deliver Slaves from being punish’d by their Masters. It may be a Question whether his Soul was sav’d; for there are those who affirm, he intreated the Murderer to permit him to be Baptiz’d; who answering, It was then too late, without granting his Request, or any Respite, ran furiously upon that Antient Prince, who made no Resistance, and stabb’d him in several Places. They carry’d the Body into a Vault. The King’s Kindred and Servants heard the Noise, and suspecting the worst; went away in great Disorder, to the City, where there was already a confused Rumour of what had happen’d, and being Distracted, ran shrieking about the Streets, where nothing was to be heard but Weeping, Threats, Complaints and Disorder.

The Principal Queen, with the Kings other Wives, and Slaves, his Sons, and Brothers, laying a side all State, came out of the Palace, already surrounded by the Multitude, in Confusion and Dispair, and being follow’d by most of the Portugueses, who no less abhorr’d the Fact, ran to the Fort, crying out to let them see their King, as still doubting of what they heard. Mezquita’s Inhumanity. The Commander appear’d in Armour on the Wall, and said, They should see him immediatly; and then came up a Soldier, bringing the Kings Head with the Royal Turbant on it. After him came others, with his Arms, Legs, and Body cut into small pieces, all which they hung upon the Battlements in the sight of his People. Afterwards they Salted them, as if the perpetuating of the Wrong had been requisite. This was what most provok’d the injur’d People, who no longer able to behold so inhumane a Spectacle, and being beside themselves, and fearing more Mischief, return’d with their Family. The Sons out of Respect to their Fathers Body, went away from Ternate to several Islands, tho’ in Reality they departed to excite others by their Presence, representing the Hideousness, and Horror of the Fact; and to dispose their Revenge. For the present they were satisfied with sending to complain of the Commander in Chief.

Complain’d of at Goa. Their Embassador arriv’d at Goa clad in White, which is the Mourning of the Molucco Islands, and upon the Faith of his Credentials, acquainted the Viceroy with the whole matter; proving the Innocency of the Murder’d Sultan; representing the Wrong done to, and the Sorrow of his Family, and Kingdoms, who so passionately Lov’d him; and beseeching him, in the name of them all, to Right them against the Man, who with the Power and Authority of the Portuguese Arms, had Violated the publick Faith and the Laws of Nature. The Viceroy gave him a favourable hearing, tho’ by that Time the matter was otherwise represented at Goa, at least among the Portuguese Nation. They said, That King Aerio going to visit the Commander False pretences of the Portugueses. in Chief, Martin Antonio Pimentel, went in with him, and they contended in Words upon some Point, when the Portuguese answering him angrily, they fell to their Weapons, and the King was kill’d in the Quarrel. They added, That he was Advis’d so to do, by some of our Religious Men, who were offended at the Persecution of the Christians, and the Obstructing of the King of Portugal’s Service. Pimentel made his Defence with the Original Letters, of those who perswaded him to commit the Fact, and who afterwards sav’d him. However the Viceroy did not Reject the Plaintifs; but promis’d to Right them; and to shew that he design’d them farther satisfaction than a bare Promise, he sent away the necessary Supplies for the Security of the Fort of Ternate, and Nunno Pereyra de la Cerda, a Gentleman of Courage, and the necessary Sagacity to succeed the other in a Post where all things were in Confusion. He also writ to King Sebastian of Portugal, acquainting him with the Death of King Aerio; how Cruelly and Unjustly he had been kill’d; what a Revolution there was cause to fear it might produce; whom he had sent to succeed Mezquita; the Orders he had to Secure him, as also Pimentel, if he could find him.

Pereyra succeeds Mezquita. Nunno Pereyra arriv’d at Malaco with the Molucco Embassador, whence, at the proper Season, they Sail’d to Ternate, where as soon as they Landed, order was taken for Correcting the Insolency of those in the Garrisons, who robb’d, and obstructed Trade. When he had settled these Affairs, he seiz’d the late Commander in Chief, James Lopez; but did not punnish him there, in the sight of those who had been wrong’d, which would have appeas’d them. The new Commander sollicited the Kings Sons to return to Ternate, and endeavour’d to give them, and the Kingdom Satisfaction. He easily convinc’d them, that the Publick was no way guilty of their Fathers Death, but only the Commander Mezquita, who should be severely punish’d. That He fawns. he deliver’d them the Kings Body, to be Bury’d with due Honour. That they should settle the Succession, offering it to Cachil Guarate, Aerio’s Eldest Son. He told them, the King of Portugal did not send his Commanders to be Enemies, but Protectors of the Royal Family and State of Ternate, and therefore they should make use of his Arms, as their own. They return’d apparent Thanks for what Pereyna did, and being indifferently satisfy’d with his Promises, took the Kings Body. A few Months after, on the Day appointed for the Barbarous Obsequies, Embassadors from the neighboring Kings, and Kingdoms landed at the City, who all repair’d to the Palace, clad in White, with the dead Kings Sons, and Brothers, the Sangiacks and Soldiers, and the Chiefest of them, going into the Room where the Coffin was before the Mourners, who are Officers of the Grave, began their Lamentations Revenge vow’d. and Cryes, they all swore upon the dead Body, to take a Revenge suitable to the Wrong; but because this Resolution requir’d a more deliberate Preparation, they suspended it for a Year. It is reported, that Heaven anticipated them within that time, punishing Pimentel, striking him to the Heart with the Disease call’d Berber, whereof he dy’d swelling up, and raving.

Assembly of the Indians to consent. The Funeral Rites being perform’d, the Prince took leave of Nunno Pereyra, to go over to the Island Ires, where they have a most stately Country-House, and the principal Mosque. There they all met on pretence of Diverting themselves after their Sorrow, tho it was now almost two Years since the occasion of it happened. The Cachilas and Sangiacks repair’d thither under the same Colour, and without loosing any Time, they proposed the Uniting the Forces of their Kingdoms, and shaking off the Portuguese Yoke. What shall we, said they, value the Portugueses, if once we come to be sensible of our own Strength? What can we Fear, or not Dare to attempt? The Portugueses value him who Robs most, and is guilty of the greatest Crimes and Enormities. The forcing away of our Product, their one lewd Pleasures, and our Wrongs, are Occasion for them to make War; ours are our Country, and the Defence of our Parents, our Wives, our Children, and our Liberty. It is necessary to expedite the Execution, because a Secret is not lasting among many, and in Affairs of this Nature, there is more Danger in Consulting, than even in Execution. We have been already too long in Confusion, without a Head. No Man contradicted; but neither Cachil Guarate, the Eldest of the Brothers, nor the Second, durst take upon them so difficult an Enterprize. Cachil Babre, the Third, undertok it, with the usual Ingagement, either to Conquer, or to Dye. They presently lifted him up, with general Applause, and his Election being made publick, the Kingdom easily submitted to him, through the desire of Revenge; tho’ according to the Custom of the Molucco Islands, as soon as the King has any Son born, they swear him his Successor, in his turn, and there was then no need of any other Oath, yet they again swore to Cochil Babu. This done, they went out to their Mosque, in Procession, to offer Sacrifice. A Boy went foremost with a naked Sword on his Shoulder, and with the other Hand Sacrifice. leading a Kid, which was to be the Victim, with the little Horns Gilt. The Alcoran forbids Sacrifising; but these Islanders receive the Rites of Mahometanism so confus’dly, that with them they also retain those of their ancient Idolatry, and intermix the Ceremonies. He that conducts the Sacrifize, is, according to their Custom, follow’d by part of the Kings Soldiers, with their Pikes advanc’d, and after them goes one holding up on high a small Gold Vessel, or Pan, with burning Coals in it, the Frankincense they throw in Smoking. Next to him was the new King, over whose Head they always carry an Umbrello, made of Feathers of several Colours, in shape of a large Semicircle. The King was encompass’d by those Soldiers, that are given him by his Subjects by way or Acknowledgement, like the Turkish Janizaries. In this Order they came to the Mosque, at whose Gates, whensoever they are to enter, they find Kettles and Pots full of Water, to wash their Hands and Feet before they go in. As soon as the King was upon the Threshold the Musick play’d, and they spread Milk-white Carpets, as is the Custome: Kneeling on them, they mutter out their vain Prayers, bowing their Heads down to the Ground. In the midst of the Mosque stands a Pulpit, cover’d with white Cloth. Instead of a Bell, there hangs up the holy great flat Drum, which they beat with Sticks; tho each Mosque has a great Bell, without a Clapper, which they strike with a Stone, or piece of Iron, when requisite. All that hear it, of what Condition soever, repair to the Temple, with Pikes, Shields, Cymitars, and Muskets. The profane Sacrifice being ended, they conducted the new King to the Harbour; he went into his Carcoa, with his Family, and the other Sangiacks, and The King’s Carcoa. great Men, into many others. The King’s is so contriv’d, that there is a Gang-way all round it, made of Canes. There are two Slaves to each Oar; others do the Service of the Vessel, and near every one lies a Number of Arrows. Instead of Oars they use a sort of great Paddles, like Spoons, with which they also lade out the Water the Vessel takes in. On the upper part they make Musick with their Tabors, and Sounding-Basons of Metal, according to which they Row faster or slower, as we Dance to our Musick. In the same Place there are seven Brass Guns; a considerable number of Pikes advanc’d, longer than ours, and a Bed adorn’d with Quilts interwoven with Gold, and by it hung the King’s Helmet, Breast, and Back Plates. He sat, or lay on that rich Bed, the Servants of his Bed-Chamber Fanning him with a large Wing, made of various colour’d Feathers of the Birds that fly about his Islands; thus he Coasted about, the Sea and Shore resounding with Guns, Shouts, and Barbarous Instruments.

At the same time that they seem’d to be wholly taken up with Sports and Diversions, in the Island Ires, they Vow’d an irreconciliable Enmity War Proclaim’d. to the Portuguese Nation, with the same Solemnity as they had sworn Allegiance to their King; and this Secret having been inviolably observ’d, when the new K. thought convenient he caused it to be Publish’d throughout all his Dominions, which consists of seventy two Islands in that Archipelago, betwixt those of Mindanao, on the North; Bima and Corca on the Dominions of Ternate. South; and the Continent of the Papuas, or Papous, otherwise call’d New Guinea on the East: The Inhabitants whereof pay him their Tribute in Gold, Amber, and Birds of Paradise; all which Provinces have been Usurped from other Kings, on whose Ruins his Pride is swollen so high, that he stiles himself in his own Language, Emperor of the Archipelago. In most of them there were at that Time some Christian Towns, Churches, and Preachers, and the Gospel was receiv’d in the eight principal Nations. Idolater and Mahometan Embassadours came from them all to acknowledge, and swear Fealty to Cachil Rabu. In this great Assembly the Desire of Revenge was made the Cause of Religion, and in it began the longest Persecution the true Faith has undergone in our Days. It will be therefore requisite, distinctly to describe the remote, and neighbouring Countries and Nations that carry’d it on; and the Strength, and standing Forces, Forces of the Kings of Ternate and Provinces. they have ready at all times upon any Occasion.

The sixteen greater Towns of Ternate furnish their K. with 3000 Arm’d Men; the Island of Montil, distant from it six Leagues South, 200; that of Machian, eight Leagues distant, 1500; that of Caioa four Leagues from Mechian, the same way, 300; those of Gazea, twelve Leagues from Caioa, 300; those of Xula, fifty Leagues from Ternate, 4000; those of Burro, seventy Leagues distant, 4000; those of Veramula eighty Leagues from Amboina, and are the same Number of Leagues in compass 50000; those of Buaro, and Manipa, lying betwixt those of Veranula and Burro, 3000; those of Na, Nolo, and New Guinea, which are many, and very populous, fifty Leagues East from Ternate, send no certain, but numerous Forces; that of Ires, where the King then was, 400; and pays Tribute in Amber, and Birds of Paradise. Those of Meaos and Tasure, on the North, 400. Those of Doe, distant thirty Leagues some way, 900. Those of Rao and Saquita, seventy Leagues North, 1000. The great Batochina, or Gilolo, four Leagues from Ternate, 10000. The large Island Matheo, contains several Kingdoms, thirty Leagues to the Westward, each of them subject to its own King, and all of them to him of Ternate; send him Arm’d Troops. Totole and Bool 6000 Men; Guayduda 7000; Gorontano and Iliboto, 10000; Tomine, 12000; Manado, 2000; Dondo, 700; Labague, 1000; Fulo, and Jaqua, 10000; Gape, Tobuquo, and Butu are all subject to him, and the number of their supplies is uncertain; but Sanguien and its King, 40 Leagues from Ternate, serve him with 3000 Men. This was not the standing Force, which without adding to it the uncertain number, nor the multitude of slaves, amounts to 120300 Men. This particular F. Martin sent to the Governor Gamez Parez, and the original was deliver’d to me. Since then, that Kings Power is increased, and because more Formidable, by reason of his Alliances with several Princes, entering Amity with some, and Oppressing others, and practising the Rules of Tyranny among them all, as Artfully as was formerly done by Greece, Rome, and Carthage. Of their Game, Fish, Rice, Sagu, and other Stores of Fruit and Spice, and the Royal Mines, we shall speak when the Subject in Hand requires it; and so of their Weapons, of which last it is to be observ’d once for all, that those they Dart, are all poison’d, and the Fire-Arms differ not from ours.

For managing of this great Design, the King privately sent about his Brothers, Pereyra prepares his Defense. and Sangiacks; but so great an Army could not be contracted from such distant Parts, without being heard of by the Christians, and particularly Nunno Pereyra. He suspecting that the Desire of Revenge still prevail’d in the injur’d Parties, and that the first Effects of it would fall upon his Fort, tho’ the Sultan’s Murderer was not then in it, strengthned it proportionably to the Siege he expected. Prudence supplies the Place of Prophesy. The Fort was not then erected, which is since to be seen in Ternate, on a high Ground of difficult Ascent, next the Sea, and the Back of it defended by a Lake, next the Mountain; being three Miles distant from the first Fort: It was afterwards built to defend themselves against great Fleets; not satisfy’d with that they had before on the Plain, The Portuguese Fort. next the Sea, made of dry Stones, without Mortar; which being since improv’d in all Respects, is now built with Lime, the Walls a Yard and half thick, and Fifteen in Height; Forty in Length next the Sea, with a round Tower at each Angle, like the ancient Spanish Fortresses. Nunno Pereyra endeavour’d with all possible Diligence, to shut up in it the greatest Number he could of all the Christian Families, and to be in a Readiness to stand the Siege, which soon ensu’d. He sent Advice to India and Portugal of the Intelligence he had receiv’d, demanding Succours, as in a certain Danger; but it could never have come in Time; for some Part of those Forces being assembled in the Island Ires, the Rest staying on Botochina, in that Part which is properly call’d Gilolo, and is remote from the Portugueses, they there began to persecute Christianity by publick Decree.

The Apprehension of these Mischiefs, had much perplex’d all the Governours of those Provinces, because it was daily confirm’d by visible Proofs of an open Insurrection. James Lopez de Marquita was already kept Prisoner in the Fort of Benastarim at Goa, those confin’d, and the Viceroy expected Orders from Spain to dispose of him, and the Forces; because it was fear’d the King of Ternate might make use of the great Supplies which could be sent him from China; especially if that were certain which was then discoursed in Spain. It was reported, Project of abandoning the Philippine Islands. That the Council of State, observing that the Philippine Islands were rather an Expence, than an Advantage to the Crown, being many, and hard to be maintain’d, had propos’d to King Philip, to quit them, and withdraw the Court of Justice, and the Garrisons that defend them. They added the Example of the Chineses, who abandon’d them, tho’ they are such near Neighbours, and can relieve them with as much Ease, as if they were joyning to their Continent. That as Spain governs them, the Loss they occasion is considerable, without any Hopes that it can ever be alter’d for the better; a vast Quantity of Silver being sent thither from New Spain, both for the usual Expences, and to buy Commodities; that so all that Treasure is convey’d by the Hands of the Chineses into the Heart of those Dominions, render’d intractable by the Severity of their Laws, by Reasons for it. which they are trench’d in, as it were with Fortification, against all Commerce with Strangers. They alledg’d that a Monarchy dispers’d, and divided by so many Seas, and different Climates, could scarce be united; nor could humane Wisdom, by settled Correspondence, tye together Provinces so remov’d from one another by Nature. That these Arguments are not the Ofspring of Wit, but of Experience, and Truths obvious to the Senses. That all such as might be urg’d against them, were only grounded upon Honour, and full of a generous Sound, but difficult in the Execution; and therefore the best Expedient, was for the King to strengthen himself in Europe, where his Forces can be ready to meet all Dangers, without being expos’d to the Hazards of the Sea, and the Dominions of others. Each of these Arguments was so fully represented by the Officers of the Revenue, that the Proposal was thought worthy to be debated and consider’d; and had God permitted the King to exclude the Philippine Islands his Monarchy, leaving them expos’d to the first that would take Possession, the Moluccos had so far been strengthen’d, as to become unconquerable.

The same Thing has been propos’d at other Times, and in the Days of King Philip the IIId. who sticking to his Father’s Answer, has always rejected that King Philip rejects it. mischievous Advice. That most prudent Monarch answer’d, That the Philippines should be maintain’d, in the same Manner they were, and the Court should be invested with more Authority, that Justice might prevail, for he laid the Stress of Government, on its being upright, and impartially administer’d. That in the same manner the Troops should be kept up there, and maintain’d out of the Revenues of New-Spain, or any other of his Kingdoms, since all the Treasures discover’d, or still hid in the Bowels of the Mines, ought to be apply’d to the Propagation His Reasons. of the Gospel. For what would the Enemies of Christ say, if they perceived that the Philippine Islands were left destitute of the true Light, and its Ministers to propagate it, because they did not produce rich Metals, and other Wealth, like the Rest of the fruitful Islands in Asia and America? That all the Power of Kings, ought to be subservient to this Sovereign End, as becomes Sons of the Church, and Promoters of the Apostolical preaching, which is continu’d by Succession. That since he had refused to mitigate the least Point of his Severity towards his Northern Subjects, or to grant them Liberty of Conscience; why should he remit any thing among Heathens, and Mahometans, which were the Harvest God had assign’d him, to enrich the Church with those Children, so remote? Thus the Project was put down, and this has always been the glorious Resolution, when mistaken Zeal, or worldly Interests have propos’d the quitting of those Dominions. This seems to have been a peculiar Providence of Heaven, which knew how soon they were all like to belong to the same Master, and that the Right and Conquests should be all United in his Person, the one being the Means to recover the other, as has been seen in our Days.

Product of Asia. King Philip was govern’d by this Religious Motive; but there were others urg’d by such as were acquainted with the Riches of Asia, which are chiefly Diamonds, Rubies, large and Seed Pearl, Amber-Greece, Musk, Civet, Camphir of Borneo and China, Vermillion, Coral, Quick-Silver, Copper, fine Muslins, and Calicoes of Cambaya and Bengala, Carpets, Coverlets, and fine Quilts. Persian Silks, Brocard, Ivory, Rheubarb, Cardamome, Cassia Fistula, Frankincense, Benjamin, Wax, China-Ware, Arguments against quitting the Philippines. Lake for dying, and Physick, Cloves, Mace, Gold, Silver, Medicinal Plants, Aloes, Eagle Wood, Calamba, Ebony, and very many more rare Trees, Drugs, Spices, and Ornaments. All this they said, Venice lost, when the Trade was remov’d to Portugal; and this same stir’d up the Sultan of Egypt, as well knowing therein consisted all substantial Wealth, to enter into a Confederacy with all the Kings of India; who were already alarm’d by the Portuguese Fleets; so that they at the common charge fitted out a Navy of Galleys, and other Vessels, in the Port of Suez furnish’d it with Cannon, and put aboard 3000 Mamelucks, besides a great Number of Venetian and Genoese Renegadoes. With this Power the Sultan enter’d India, in the Year 1508, and tho’ the King of Cambaya assisted him, he was vanquish’d by the Portugueses in the Port of Chaul. They urg’d, That at present these Riches are still more valuable, and that if the Trade of them were once brought into the Way of the Philippine Islands, it would save all the Dangers met with, by the way of Amboyna, Banda, Borneo, and the many Shoals about them, as also the many Storms those narrow Seas are subject to. For the Clove particularly was brought by the Portugueses, in their Trading Galeon, which goes from Goa to the Moluccos, to pay their Garrisons. In this Ship they every year carry’d away to Malaca and Goa, 24000 Quintals, or Hundred Weight of Cloves, little more or less. At those Ports it was dealt to Persians, Turks, Chineses, and Africans, so that scarce the third Part came to Europe. The King of Achem, in Sumatra, secur’d another Part, whence it was sent to Alexandria. All these Commodities, when they come to Malaca, pay eight per Cent. The Spice that comes into Spain is distributed into all the Kingdoms of Europe; and it might be easily contriv’d, say these People, to bring the greatest Part to Spain from the Philippine Islands; which would be one of the noblest Projects, that will be thought of for the improving of the Revenue, considering what a great Price Clove bears in Spain, and how cheap it is in the Molucco. This was the Opinion when those Islands belong’d to another Master, and it was no easie Matter to divert the Trade of Spice, and other Goods, from the usual India Voyage. Besides the Religious Men of the Orders of St. Augustin and St. Dominick, had already propagated the Faith in those and other Islands, whence that which flourish’d, and advanc’d in Ternate and Tydore was Fed.

Cachil Babu sail’d with his Brothers, and a great Number of Vessels from Ires for Ternate, with much Joy, and forebodings of Victory; greater Forces continually joyning him, through the earnest Desire they had all of delivering those Parts from the Portuguese Domination. As soon as ever they arriv’d at Ternate, they landed, and immediately invested the Fort, which they call’d the Seat of Servitude. Portuguese Fort besieg’d. They assaulted the Houses of the Portugueses, and that so suddenly, that though they had Notice before, and lived in Fear, they scarce stood upon their Defence. Rage and Success made a more than Barbarous Havock. They set Fire to the Houses with Fury, and popular Tumult; so that whatsoever was not within a Wall and Ditch, perish’d that Day. Those in the Fort attempted to succour their People; but greater Numbers of Ternates coming on, kill’d some of those, who had sally’d out, not only with Darts of solid Canes, which they cast most dexteriously, with Arrows, Cymiters and Shields, which they us’d when Idolaters; but with Muskets and other Fire Arms. The rest of the Portugueses routed, fled to their Fort; for those who had gain’d Reputation by so many brave Exploits, were that Day depriv’d of their Courage, by the Injustice of the Action they had been concern’d in. They sent again to Goa to desire Relief, and to represent the Desolation. Distress, not only of the Fort of Ternate, but of all the others the King of Portugal held in those Eastern Parts; for they had cast off Subjection to him in most of them. They forgot not to mention the persecution of the Religion, and the scarcity of Arms and Provisions, of both which the Ternates had deprived them. These News were flown into India and Spain by other Ways; and all the while the Siege lasted Goa sent Succours to the Moluccos, in their trading Galeons; but Tydore and Ternate mortal Enemies. the vast Distance, the many Shoals, and the violent Storms those Seas are subject to, occasion’d the Loss of those Ships, or put them by their intended Voyage.

The Commanders in those Eastern Ports, who follow’d the Example of those of Ternate were not Idle; for the Portuguese, tho’ the reducing of those Rebels succeeded not at that Time, did not miss of obtaining other Victories, which should we relate them here, would make this look more like a History of all India than of one small part of it; besides that the Portugueses Nation has not wanted Learned Authors, who have transmitted them to us, where they may be seen at large. The Spaniards have also done the like, in a much more loftier Stile than mine. We must therefore circumscribe our selves, and return to the Moluccos, where the Besieged, as it were forsaken, and abandon’d by all the Earth, endure the Hardships and Perils of Places so streightned.

Thus all their Hopes, under Heaven, depended on their own Valour, and the inviolable Friendship of the King of Tydore, so implacable an Enemy to him of Ternate, that neither the Neighbourhood of the Kingdoms, divided only by an Arm of the Sea, a League and half over, in the midst whereof is a small Desart Island, which almost joyns them, nor the ancient and reiterated Alliances, do in the least abate of their Hatred, which seems to be fatal, and consequently unavoidable betwixt those two Kings and Nations.

However, the Ternates being always intent upon War, and thinking no Practice Practices of Babu with Tydore. unlawful, that may secure their Success, they ply’d their Weapons on one Hand, and on the Other, carry’d on their Intrigues, for a Pacification with the King of Tydore; not so much out of any Desire of coming to a Conclusion with him, as to the End that being amaz’d with the Hopes of Peace, he might grow slack in Relieving and Assisting the Besieged. They offer’d to restore him some Places, taken from him during the late Wars; and to give him those and others, as a Portion with a Daughter to the King of Ternate; besides other Advantages, of which Accommodation the King of Bachian was the chief Manager. To these fair Offers, they added Threats; and both the Kings and their Nations agreeing in Religion, and it being easy to cover any Occasion of War under fair Pretences; it happen’d that the Tydores, at least while this Politick Game was playing, did not afford their Succours with the same Zeal as they had done at first; and that King, who till then had been a constant Friend, upon another Consideration, deferr’d Policy of the K. of Tydore. his coming to a Resolution. He waited, as well as the Besieged, the Arrival of the Portuguese Succours, and several of his Carcoas often touch’d at the Islands of Borneo, to enquire what Ships pass’d that Way from India. They examin’d every Vessel they met, and every slight Intelligence puff’d them up, or quite cast them down. In short, both Parties protracted the Time, with so little Regard to any other Principles, that all their Courage and Fidelity, depended on it alone.

This is so certain, that the King of Tydore being just at the Point of accepting the Wife, and Lands offer’d him by the Enemy, fell off upon the News brought him, that a Galleon was seen sailing for the Molucco Islands, and he rejected all the Proposals. It was afterwards known to be bound for the Philippine Islands, and belong’d neither to the Portuguese nor Spaniards; but to Venetian Merchants, who traded between Manila and China, with several Commodities of their own Country, and other Parts of the Levant; so that the King of Tydore, and the Besieged themselves began to make fresh Reparations, like Men that sharpen their Weapons, and fit their Armour.

These Succours encourag’d them to several bold Attempts. The Besieged made Sallies, and the Length of the Siege. a Salley, to nail up the Enemies Cannon, and tho’ few in Number, several Times assaulted their Camp, still returning Victorious, without any considerable Loss. They dismounted all their Cannon from the Walls, their Works nothing availing them, because they were not made according to Art. The Siege lasted five Years, the Portugueses sustaining it with notable Resolution, and the Indians pressing with no less Obstinacy; nor would the Hunger, Thurst, Nakedness, and the Hardships of the Seasons have been tollerable, had not they been common to both Parties. Extream Want, was the Occasion of several signal Exploits of that Valour, wherewith they defended their Lives, and the Fort. This produc’d Rage and Admiration in the Enemy; and an affectionate Compassion in the Women of the Island; among whom they found Advice, Secrecy, Intelligence and known Favour. So great is the Power of Persecuted Virtue, that it prevails, even upon those Enemies, who harbour the Memory of a Wrong, to convert it, first into a Desire of forgetting it, and without long Interposition of Time, produces a Zeal to support that Valour they first hated.

Corcoa
Almadia

The End of the Second Book.

THE
HISTORY
OF THE
Discovery and Conquest
OF THE
Molucco and Philippine Islands, &c.

BOOK III.

Cessation of Arms. Both Sides now took the Breathing of a short Cessation; advantagious to Ternate for the Liberty of Trade, and to the Portugueses, because it gain’d Time to their Hope of Relief, which they concluded must be near at Hand, by Reason it had been long expected. They were not discouraged by Events, those having prov’d alternatively Successful and Unfortunate, and Victory was toss’d to and fro; besides that the Interruption of Commerce had knit some the closer together in Friendship. I could mention several Instances of this Sort, contain’d in Letters, and other Spanish and Portuguese Relations, sent by Religious Men from the Moluccos, to the Governours of the Philippine Islands, whose Papers have, upon this Occasion, been lay’d before me, for my better Information, for which Reason we may make Use of some of them, without departing from the main Subject. The gravest of the Greek and Latin Historians sometimes intermix private Adventures, as it were short Episodes to divert the Reader. The Example of great Masters is a sufficient Authority for Learners, for which Reason I may well be allow’d this Freedom.

One Duarte, a brave Ensign, had contracted strict Friendship with Cachil A Love Story. Tudura, which was no way obstructed by the Difficulties of the Seige, nor so much as interrupted. Duarte was wont in the dead of the Night, to go safely into the City in the Habit of the Country, and by the Help of the Language, being Master of it, where he was privately admitted into his Friend’s House, and well receiv’d there on another Account by Tudurisa, his only Daughter, who, being prevail’d on by the Love she bore Duarte, imbrac’d the Christian Religion. The Father was not unacquainted with their Love, but he also knew that it was attended by Modesty in Tudurisa, and true Courtesy in Duarte. Returning to the Fort, he used to be taken in the same dangerous way, by those Persons who had let him down with a Rope. He brought with him some Intelligence and Provisions; but he came not so entire himself, for the Indian Woman, who was to be his Wife, had robb’d him of his Heart. Nuno Pereyra going the Rounds miss’d the Ensign at his Post, and enquiring into it, understood the Cause of his Absence; in Respect to which, considering the mighty Power it often has over great Souls, he conniv’d at the Breach of Martial Discipline, assigning that to the Passion, without reproving the Lover. Whether he follow’d the Example we read of Quintus Fabius Maximus, in the like Case, or on Account that Experience shows, there is Nothing can hold a Lover so fast as the Presence of the lov’d Object; Pereyra enjoining all Persons to keep the Secret, contriv’d, without offending Tudura, that his Daughter should come privately into the Fort, which she consented to, without many Perswasions. Having so done, the Commander in Chief, calling his Ensign, said to him, I am inform’d, that at certain Times, and that when the Danger is greatest, you forsake us; but that it is not for want of Affection, or not knowing the Duty of your Post; tho’ we were not confin’d to these narrow Walls, I would not punish your Failure, because Mildness has ever been more efficacious for correcting of Generous Souls, than Rigour. It will not be convenient for the Future, that we be left without you, and in Fear for what may befall you: Here is your Wife, and then she appear’d, brought hither without any Force, or Opposition from her Father. Take her to you lovingly, and do not suffer the Honour of Portugal, depending on these few Men, to want the Bravery of so able an Officer. Duarte was amaz’d, generously out of Countenance, full of Love, and knew not what to say; but was excus’d by his Friends, and even by Nunno Pereyra.

Hopes and Despair of the Besieged. It was now the Year 1575, when the Besieged began to conceive some Hopes of their Deliverance; because the Saugiacks and Cachils of the King of Ternate’s Race were divided into Factions, and there wanted not some among them, who endeavour’d to draw the Portugueses over to their Party. These Misunderstandings made them act less vigorously; and did not they look on theirs as the Common Cause, the Design had succeeded. The Portugueses in this Condition, despairing of all Relief, the Natives of Ternate on the other Side of the Island, next those of the Meaos, discover’d a Galeon coming from Malaca, having coasted about Borneo; they concluded it was that which brought the Succours from Portugal, and being assur’d it was so, they became unanimous again, and press’d on the Seige; but Force little prevailing against the Resolution of Proposals of Accommodation, and Reasons for it. the Besieged, Cachil Tulo, by Permission, propos’d some Terms, which the Commander in Chief had long listen’d to from the Wall. One Day making several Overtures, Tulo told him, That the King, his Brother, was willing to put an End to that tedious Seige, upon any Conditions. That to this Effect had concluded a Peace with the King of Tydore, that he might not relieve them for the Future. That the King of Bachian had joyn’d him for the same Purpose; to the End, that since they were all convinc’d that was their common Cause, they might with their joynt Power make their utmost Efforts. That the Cessation which had lasted till then, tho’ advantages to the King, as encouraging the Trade with the Javaneses, and Rumes, who came to Load Clove, must of Necessity cease. He ask’d how long they would expose their Lives to the utmost Dangers, only to gain an empty Name of Loyal Subjects, which, perhaps, would never be known to him that was to reward it. He bid them consider the Villany of his Father, King Aerio’s Death, and that by their Obstinate holding out they made the Murderers Cause more Criminal. That they thus show’d they approv’d of anothers Treachery, whose Punishment they would compass by other Means. That they ought to be very thankfull, that the King would not involve them in the Guilt of that Wretch, who contrary to his solemn Oath, to the Laws of Friendship, and the Honour of the Portuguese Nation, or rather to Nature it self, had Murder’d that King, who most inviolably observ’d the Faith he had engag’d to him. Besides, that they were sensible how little Comfort uncertain Hopes could afford amidst real Wants; and how impracticable it was for Relief to come from so great a distance, through such boisterous Seas, causing so many Shipwrecks, and which seem’d to have conspir’d against those who had oppress’d and injur’d Ternate.

He concluded his Discourse requiring the Commander in Chief, to deliver up the Fort, or expect the utmost Rigour; for if he once refus’d the Terms offer’d, and provok’d them, they would spare neither Sex, nor Age. The Besieg’d were not free from Jealousie, that there was Fraud in these Offers; The Besieged Surrender. yet, perceiving that the Succours never came from India, either because retarded by the African War, in which King Sebastian had engag’d himself, or by the Difficulties of that dangerous Voyage; and believing that the two Kings of Tydore and Ternate were reconcil’d, as Tulo told them, thinking he of Tydore, without whose support they could not subsist, had forsaken their Friendship, the Proposals were accepted by unanimous Consent, after Nuno Pereyra had return’d a resolute Answer, suitable to that Part of Cachil Tulo’s Words, which contain’d any Threats, signifying to him, how little they mov’d himself, or his Men; and that he would hearken to no Conditions to the disservice of his God, or his King, or to disparage the Bravery of his Soldiers, which had been so often try’d to the cost of the Natives of Ternate; nevertheless upon some other Considerations, he would The Capitulation. surrender the Fort, provided that all the Portugueses might march out in a Body, Colours Flying, with their Wives, Children, Slaves, and all their Goods, having first Hostages given them to their content, that no Harm, or Injury should be done them. That the King should secure them their Passage to Amboyna, and find them Vessels; and that such as should happen to be left in Dominions for want of them, should have no Ransome demanded of them, either then, or at the time of their departure. That the Fort and Guns should be deliver’d to King Babu, upon express Condition, That he should hold it for the King of Portugal, and in his Name, to whom he should restore it, whensoever he effectually punish’d the Murder of King Aerio. The King easily Granted, and Swore to perform all those Conditions, being eager to possess himself of the Fort, before the Succours arriv’d, The Fort Deliver’d. which were now near at hand. On the Day appointed, which was Saint Stephen’s, the Ternates took up all the advantageous Posts to view the Portugueses, who march’d out as if they had been Conquerors; and no sooner were they out of the Fort, than the Natives running in, possess’d themselves of the Guns, with loud Laughter and Shouts, Scoffing at those that left it; for the third Day after the Galeon arriv’d, well Mann’d, and furnish’d with Guns, and all Necessaries, and James de Azambuja in it, as Commander in Chief. They had thoughts of Recovering the Fort, but it was too late, because the Enemy was possess’d of all Things, without any Opposition. Pereyra then perceiv’d how great an Obstacle Precipitation is to the chusing of the safest Advice, and how infallibly it is follow’d by fruitless Repentance; since had he delay’d but never so little longer, tho’ it were only to weigh the Enemies Proposals, who ought never to be suppos’d Sincere, he might have sav’d himself and Destroy’d them. For this Reason, tho’ he wanted not an honourable Excuse, he resolv’d not to return to Goa, having private Intelligence that the Viceroy would not fail to secure him, in Order to cut off his Head. Azambuja protected him in his Galeon, and he went over with many others to Amboyna. The rest spread themselves throughout the Neighbouring Islands, in Vessels they begg’d. Some return’d to Malaca, and only sixteen Portuguese Families remain’d in Ternate for want of Shipping; who at first submitted to the change of their Fortune: but could not afterwards comply with the Difference there is betwixt Domination and Servitude. The King of Tydore a Portugueses settle at Tydore. most trusty Friend to the Spaniards in their greatest Affliction, offer’d them his Islands, Houses, and Trade of Spice. He sent them a good Number of Carcoas, which carry’d them over to his Dominions, and soon after assign’d them a convenient Place to build their Houses and Churches. This Colony was increased, and the Number of its Inhabitants augmented by Sancho de Vasconselos, who sent others from Malaca, being Commander in Chief of Goa and afterwards of Amboyna, in the Year 1578. At last he came thither himself, and erected a Fort, a quarter of a League from the City of Tydore, which gives its Name to the Island.

Tydore describ’d. Tydore, in the Language of those Parts, which was formerly spoken, signifies, Fertility and Beauty. Europeans generally give it this Name; but its King, as appears by his Arabick and Persian Subscriptions, Writes Tudura, and not Tydore. It is not inferior to Ternate for Fruitfulness, and Delight, but far exceeds it in Magnitude and Populousness; and yields the same Aromatick Product. Curious Persons have there try’d to improve the Clove, watering and pruning the Tree at proper Seasons, and it appears to embrace the Helps of Art, by growing bigger, more active in its Vertue, and the Scent stronger. The white Sanders here come to more Perfection, than in any other of the Eastern Parts. In this, as well as the other Molucco Islands are found those Birds, they, in their Language, call Birds of Paradice. Manucodiatas, signifying Birds of Paradise, from a Fable, credited by those superstitious People, that they came down from Heaven. The Fort here was afterwards enlarg’d by Nuno Pereyra, not far from the Port, and then by James de Azambuja. The latter did not only contribute with his Industry, Fort of Tydore. but with his Labour, carrying the Materials himself, when it was requisite to set the Soldiers an Example, and forward the Work; which the King often view’d, and was well pleas’d to see the Fortifications. He discours’d familiarly with the Officers, advis’d with them in his Wars, and comforted the Christians, and they far’d best, for from that Time forward, there being none in Ternate, and that Fort in the Hands of the Natives, the Heathens and Mahometans seem’d to be Superior and Conquerors throughout all those Provinces. They strengthen’d themselves with Works and other Preparations, erected Forts on high Places, and bending their Minds against the Christians, put many to cruel Martyrdoms; that so the Foundation of our Faith may be in all Parts cemented with the Blood of the Faithful. They dismember’d the Bodies, and burnt the Legs Persecution. and Arms in the sight of the still Living Trunks. They impal’d the Women, tore out their Bowels, and they surving themselves, beheld their still moving Flesh in the Hands of their Executioners. Children were pull’d Piecemeal before their Mothers Eyes, and Infants still in Embrio were rent from their Wombs. It has been made out, that above 60000 Christians fell by the Sword in only the King of Ternate’s Dominions. This is asserted in the Annual Relations of the Fathers of the Society, who preach’d in those Parts. They give an Account of this dismal Persecution, with all the Circumstances of the Cruelties; as how the persecuted Persons fled to the Mountains, seeking for Compassion among the wild Beasts, others cast themselves into the Sea, where they perish’d, either devour’d by its Monsters, or swallow’d by the Waves themselves, not being able to reach the other Islands. A considerable Number of these religious Fugitives, as they swam met a Portuguese Ship, coming to the Relief of those at Amboyna, and with dismal Voices cry’d out, Help, Relieve us, for we are Christians. They carefully took them up in their Boats, and having view’d them at Leasure, found that none of them were above 12 Years of Age. Yet at this same Time, when cruelty advanc’d God’s Glory, Providence seem’d to act Counter in the very Cities, and Deserts. Idolaters and Mahometans were converted, and our Religious Men preach’d and catechis’d, without any Fear of Punishment, which they rather coveted, and thought themselves unworthy of it; encouraging one another with the Examples the Tyrant made, for several Purposes. But all those People looking upon it as their Duty to seek Revenge, their Cruelty gaining Applause under that Name, and Europe being involv’d in Dismal Troubles, they met with no Opposition in the Execution of their Vengeance, and the Calamity ran so high, that in the space of thirty Years, they either quite obliterated, or much obscured the Name of Christianity in those Eastern Parts, destroy’d our Churches, and, like those who prepare to hunt wild Beasts, arm’d themselves against the Faithful who liv’d in more security among those savage Creatures, or in Deserts never penetrated by Men, feeding on Herbs, and gaining Time, by that lawful Retreat for the sake of the Gospel, for the Wrath of Heav’n, whose Executioners those Men were, to pass over. Above 36 Towns, of each 800 Inhabitants in Gilolo and Celebes a spacious and populous Country, and in those of the two Kings of Sian and Sanguil, Many Apostatize. who profess’d Christianity, with most of their Subjects, in the Kingdom of Cauripana; in that of Bachian, whose King and his People were Sons of the Church; in the Islands of Amboyna, where Forty Towns worshipped CHRIST, in the Bosom of his Faith, and in those of Tydore, which were not without this Light; in all those Places they fell off from Christianity, and were utterly lost; first through the Insolency of the Portuguese Commanders, and lastly on Account of the Death of Sultan Aerio; who, as was prov’d, had given no real, nor so much as a likely Token of Falshood, for which they might be provok’d to destroy him. However the Christians dy’d with such Resolution, that the Persecuters took not away any Life but what became a fresh Example of Magnanimity, and perhaps Providence might permit that Accident of Aerio, with a Design to advance the Churches Glory.

Augustin Nunez sent to Command at Amboyna. Sultan Babu making his present Victory an Instrument to obtain others, Ship’d his Men, in Order to besiege Tydore and Bachian; and tho’ he met with a vigorous Defence in both Places, and the Portuguese Auxiliaries made some Amends for his Superiority of Power, yet they submitted to the Tyrant. This Revenge made him stick at no Cruelty. In November, this same Year, a Galeon came to Malaca from India, to carry Succours for the Moluccos, commanded by Captain Augustin Nunez, the Eldest and Bravest Commander in those Days, as he made it appear in the Expedition of Chaul, when it was besieged by Niza Molucco, when Don Luys de Atayde was Viceroy of India, in the year 1578. The Galeon was stor’d with all Necessaries, and in it James James Lopez de Mezquita sent Prisoner to Ternate. Lopez de Mezquita, the Murderer of Aerio, design’d for Punishment, in Satisfaction for the Wrong done. He was so strong, and fierce, that to secure him, he was fetter’d with a great Chain, the End whereof was made fast to a heavy Piece of Brass Cannon. Augustin Nunez had Orders to convey him to the new King of Ternate, to be deliver’d to him bolted, like a Criminal, that he might pass such a sentence of Death on him as he thought fit, which should be executed in his Presence, pursuant to the Orders sent by the King of Portugal. They put him on double Fetters, Manacles, and Chains, and kept him in the Steeridge. Augustin Nunez went to succeed Sancho de Vasconcelos, in the Fort of Amboyna; but a storm rising, he was forc’d into the Port of Japara, of Sunda, in the greater Java. The Galeon wanting water, and Refreshment, he there sent for it; which the Native Javaneses brought him in 40 Vessels. Among them came 150 Soldiers in the Habit of Peasants, and Fishermen; who making many words as is usual among Buyers and Sellers, drew the Ponyards they brought conceal’d, and surprizing the Portugueses, fell on with such Fury and Cruelty, that they The Murderer kill’d. kill’d them all. Among them dy’d James Lopez de Mezquita, but fighting with extraordinary Bravery, tho’ held by his Chain, hinder’d by his Fetters, and other heavy Encumbrances, and restrain’d by the Cannon, to which his Chain was made fast. However he got a Sword and a Buckler wherewith he cut down ten Javaneses, revenging on them the Death of the Portugueses, and they on him, that of King Aerio of Ternate, which had occasion’d so much Slaughter. Seventy three Christians were kill’d and above the same Number of Javaneses, and their Vessels had been taken, but that others came to their Assistance from the Shore in the Heat of the Action, in which there were Men with Fire-Locks and Lances, six Yards and a Quarter long, the Points of them poison’d. The Galeon was taken without any Succour, nor was the Cannon of any Use.

It is but reasonable that so manly and honourable a Death should, as is usual, render all this Gentlemans Life honourable; and that his Fetters, and Sufferings joyn’d to it, excite Compassion and Affection in the minds of the His Vindication. Readers, so to blot out the Hatred they have conceiv’d against him on Account of Sultan Aerio’s Death. It is to be observ’d, for his justification that it does not appear, not is it reported, he was incens’d to perform that Act through Interest, Ambition, or any other private Motives; but was mov’d to it by Informations which perswaded him it was convenient, for the Establishing and Advancement of Religion, and the publick Peace. Very brave men must also be allow’d some Excesses of Fierceness, which proceed from an extraordinary Force in the irascible Part of the mind, and wherein Valour is subdu’d. When these Persons find themselves encompass’d by great Numbers, and streightned by wrongful Violence; if they are not to be daunted and overcome, it comes to pass that Patience often provok’d turns that Courage into Fury and Rage, which causes them to make mighty Slaughters, and Examples of Cruelty; led to it not only by Passion, but also by Judgment and Thought, which directs them to cause themselves to be dreaded even to Astonishment, to save themselves and their People from other great Cruelties which usually mean Souls attempt and practice upon those they stand much in Fear of. Let this Reflection serve for a general Excuse to other Offences of this sort mention’d, or blam’d in our History.

This Accident, in as much as related to the Death of James Lopez de Mezquita, was forgot, or at least not known for many Years, for in 1603 the King of Ternate demanded Justice of our King, against that Man not knowing that God had summon’d him before a more upright Tribunal. The News being brought to Malaca, the Commander Arias de Saldana immediately Peter Lopez de Sousa sent to Moluccos. sent away another Galeon, he call’d S. Peter and S. Paul, for the Moluccos under command of Peter Lopez de Sousa, and a Galley with 150 Soldiers to relieve Sancho de Vasconcelos at Amboyna, where he wanted Provisions, and was streightned. They sail’d in May 1579, to touch at Borneo, there to take in all Necessaries for the Design. He arriv’d on that Island in June, and found it in an Uproar, occasion’d by the Spaniards Spaniards at Borneo. who came thither with Doctor Sandi, Governour of the Philippine Islands in 30 rowing Vessels. He took the City, and put the King to flight, who was a Lover of the Portugueses, and from that time Manila began to be look’d upon as a place of Arms, for the recovering of the Molucco Islands; and if Sandi had then employ’d those, he carry’d to this other Expedition against them, he would have found the Tyrant less settled, and consequently his Revenge more easy. Vasconcelos died at Amboyna, and James de Azambuja succeeded him, so that nothing came now from India but fair Promises. In the Philippine Islands they had no Orders at that Time to intermeddle in those Wars, because they then belong’d to another Sovereign, and therefore they were only Lookers on to those Martyrdoms, and Revolutions and employ’d themselves as they us’d in Camboxa, Mindanao, Japan and China, and then particularly in Borneo, without regarding those other Successes.

Borneo lies between Malaca and the Moluccos, and according to the Opinion Borneo describ’d. of Gerard Mercator, is that which Ptolomy calls, the Island of Good Fortune. A Point of it lies under the Equinoctial, and the greater Part stretches out to 6 Degrees of North Latitude, taking up the two first Parallels. Thus it appears to be above 400 Leagues in Compass. It abounds in Provisions, and all other Necessaries for the Support of humane Life. And produces abundance of Camphire, Agarick Diamonds, vast Numbers of Horses, smaller than the Spanish; but it has not such plenty of Sheep, or Kine: There is a general Resort of Trade in all its Populous Cities and Ports. The Capital is Borneo, which gives Name to the Island, built on a Spacious Lake the Sea Forms, like Venice, and said to contain 23000 Houses: The King is a Mahometan; no man speaks to him but by the Interposition of an Interpreter. The Natives worship Idols. They are White, good Natur’d and sharp Witted. They have no certain Fashion of Cloaths. Many of them wear Cotton Shirts, and others of white common single Tabby, with red Lists.

Sirelela, Brother to this King, came to Manila, where Doctor Sandi being then Governour, he laid before him his Pretensions, and some Means he had for bringing his Designs to bear; but he put the main Stress upon King of Borneo’s Brothers at Manila. his having a greater Party there, than the King his Brother. He promised which would be no difficult Matter, in Regard of the Hatred the People bore the King, that he would make the Kingdom Tributary to the Kings of Spain. The Governour having taken sufficient Precautions, condescended to his Request, and arming as many Spaniards, and Philippines as he thought convenient, with all Necessaries for a great Enterprize, ship’d them, and arriv’d happily at Borneo. He attack’d it in several Places; the best of the People immediately declar’d for the Brother. The King thinking himself weakest at Sea, reserv’d his Forces for the Land, and being deceiv’d Spaniards overthrow that King. in his Expectation, was forc’d to fly, his Army being routed, without any Remains to attend him in the Deserts, and Retreats of the Mountains, where he liv’d miserably. Sirelela ascended the Throne; the Victorious Spaniards return’d to the Philippine Islands loaded with Booty; and among other Things, if we may believe Relations, brought 600 Pieces of Artillery. However the depos’d King, a few Months after, got to a Head again. No Man ought to Despair in Adversity, for Fortune is nothing but the Will of God. Thus the King, with the Assistance of the Portuguses, He is restored. recover’d his Throne, casting down his Brother, and defeating him, till he was utterly destroy’d. Hatred is frequently no less intense than Love among those whom Nature has most closly link’d. In the Molucco Islands the War did not cease, nor the general Malice against Christians.

The News of what had happened there was not known in Europe, where, and in Africk greater Dangers were apprehended; of the Event whereof A Prodigy. Providence thought fit to inform our free Wills, by stupendious Prodigies. On the 15th of June 1580, about the declining of the Day, there appear’d to certain Sailers a Large Crucifix in the Body of the Sun the Foot of the Cross standing on Mount Calvary, as we see in common Pictures; on the Right Side of it a Figure clad in White, and another on the left in a deep Red. The Crucifix ascended upwards, and was still seen to mount till the Sun Setting, the Day shut in. This was seen by all those who came in a Caravel, from the Island of St. Michael ten Leagues before they came to that of St. George, the Bishop whereof residing in that of Angla, sent the Affidavit of it to King Philip the Second, which was receiv’d and much talked of by the Judge Freytas, a grave Person. All the Men of the Caravel sign’d it, as Eye-Witnesses, who affirm, That being touch’d with it, they confess’d their Sins at the Sight of the Prodigy, begging Mercy with Sighs and Tears. Our Understandings ought to stand amaz’d, and praise, him that produces both what is Natural, and Miraculous, and who by so many Warnings shows us, that he has reserv’d Times, and Moments in his own Hand.

King Sebastian, at that Time, had other Conquests in View. The Loss or the Recovery of Ternate and the neighbouring Moluccos concern’d him alone; but he referr’d that to the Governour of India; whilst he himself, solicited by the Xerif Muley Mahomet, whom he design’d to set upon the King Sebastian prepares for the War in Africk. Throne of Morocco, tho’ with a good Design, joyn’d the African Army, with another of Catholicks, consisting of the Portuguese Gentry, of Spaniards, Italians, and Germans. And, if we may believe those who committed that Expedition to writing, he went over into Africk, contrary to all the known Rules and Maxims of Martial Prudence, which Proportions the Strength to the Undertaking, to ascertain the Success and forecasts, in Case Things prosper, to secure and preserve them. This he did upon the Assurances the Xerif gave him, that as soon as ever the Portuguese Forces appear’d, the People would submit to him. But God permitted that most Christian Prince Is Kill’d there. to be kill’d, the Xerif perishing with him; and their Armies to be routed, Muley Moluc the third Person remaining Victorious, tho’ he also dy’d in the same Battel, and was bury’d in triumphant Manner. The Prodigies, and Fears of the wiser sort were verify’d in the King of Portugal, and particularly that which happen’d before his Birth. It is certainly reported, that the Princess Joanna his Mother, one Night saw a great Number of Moors come into her Chamber, in the Palace at Lisbon, clad in several Colours; Prodigy. she believ’d or fancy’d they might be those they call Monetros, who are such as do the Duty of Guards in the Royal Apartment. Some went out to enquire, and found them all still, as husht as at other Times. The Princess seeing the imaginary Moors come in again, swoon’d away in her Ladies Arms. Afterwards at the proper Time, she was deliver’d of King Sebastian, whose singular Virtues, supported by the Loyalty of his Subjects, might have shin’d as bright as his natural Magnanimity, had not that hasten’d his End. That was mourn’d for and lamented by all Christendom, and brought Trouble to all its Princes, who began seriously to discourse about the Successor to the Crown of Portugal. There they presently swore Henry the Cardinal King. Henry, the Prince Cardinal, Unkle to the late King, then Eighty Years of Age, and the last Lawful Male of that Royal House, which began in another of his Name. Antony, Prior of Crato, Son to Prince Lewis, pretended to succeed him, and tho’ declar’d illegitimate, there was a Party that follow’d him. This Revolution, and the Hurry in such difficult Exigences, were the Occasion, that Care was not taken to supply other Places, much nearer than Ternate. Besides that dismal Accounts brought 5000 Leagues, tho’ they were represented by Demosthenes, would come cold from his Mouth and scarce move the best dispos’d Prince, when never so much at Leasure; and King Henry, had no Power, but only his Zeal for Religion, to oppose the Tyranny practis’d in the Archipelago of the Moluccos. The Cardinal King thought all his Forces little enough, and necessary considering the extraordinary Jealousie he had conceiv’d, upon our King Philip’s declaring himself a Pretender to those Kingdoms, and having order’d a considerable Army to make up to the frontiers, which he had drawn together during the said Cardinal’s Life. The Generals were the Duke of Alva, and the Marquess de Santa Cruz, the first at Land, the other at Sea; and in the mean while the ablest Divines and Civilians of Europe, in all the Schools, and Parliaments writ concerning his Right.

First English Voyage to the Moluccos. The Year before, being 1579, about the Beginning of it, Q. Elizabeth of England, seeing the Princes of Europe, particularly those in the Western Parts, make Warlike Preparations, as being divided in Opinions; form Leagues, and direct all their Designs towards the Kingdom of Portugal, she to make some Diversion with Security, had on a sudden fitted out four Ships, of eighteen Brass Guns each, and in them two hundred Men, and ten young Gentlemen, who besides employing their Valour, on such Occasions as it should offer, were to be very intent upon the Business of Navigation for greater Ends. She appointed Francis Drake of the County of Devon their Commander in Chief; who at his own, or at the Charge of John Hawkins, from whom he stole a great Quantity of Gold and Silver at S. John de Ulva, Sir Francis Drake his Voyage. in the Year 1566, added some more Ships. He set sail from the Port of Plymouth, for the South Sea, and to find out that Streight of Magellan, scarce believed by the Vulgar, and declar’d by several Cosmographers. He promis’d to sail as much as might be to the Northward, and to take rich Prizes, infesting all those remote Seas, and to return Victorious into England, through the same Streight. This presumptuous Hope he grounded on his own Valour, on the Negligence of the Spaniards, who are intrusted with the Places of Strength; on our want of Ships; and above all on that Opportunity, or Season so full of sundry and extraordinary Commotions. He touch’d on the Coast of Africk, and refitted all his Ships at Cape Bojador. The Moors took two of his Men, and a Portuguese Ship pay’d for it, he robbing her at Cabo Blanco of an hundred Quintals, or hundred Weight of Bisket, besides much Fish, and many Arms. He touch’d at the Islands of Cabo Verde, where he took another small Portuguese Vessel, richly Laden with Wine, Cloth, Holland, and several other Commodities, with Sylva, the Pilot in it, who was well acquainted with those Seas, and better on the Coast of Brazil. But six or seven Days after the Vessel sunk, and not a Man was sav’d except only the said Pilot. Drake went on to the River of Plate, and Winter’d for some Months in S. Julians Bay, which is not well shelter’d, but expos’d to excessive cold Winds, in 50 Degrees of South Latitude, where he lost some Men.

One Thomas Haughton rais’d a Mutiny there, in order to Debauch the Squadron, Drake laid hold of him, and struck off his Head. Here they Giants. saw eight Indian Giants to whom the tallest Englishman look’d like a Dwarf. They show’d their Bows and Arrows, and an Englishman, who valu’d himself upon his Dexterity at those Weapons, breaking the Peace establish’d with those People, let fly an Arrow at one of them, which pierced him through, and he dropt; the others in Revenge discharged theirs, and kill’d two of the English. The rest then assail’d the Indians, but they fled so swiftly that they seem’d not, to those English who saw and writ this, to set their Feet on the Ground. They departed thence, as soon as the North Winds they had expected to blow, and holding on their Course to the Southward, in fifteen Days came to the Mouth of the Streight. From thence to the second Narrowing they spent five Days, by reason of the Currents and Shoals; at a small distance from them they found no Bottom. They met with some Calms and Storms, and being come into the South-Sea had one which lasted forty Days, and in it lost some Ships. The Vice-Admiral return’d through the same Streight into England, where the Queen order’d him to be Hang’d for having forsaken his Admiral; but he was repriev’d till Drakes Return, and the Pardon’d, at his Request. He went on with only his own and some other Ships, but wanted not Men, Provisions, nor Ammunition, he took some belonging to private Persons, and the Kings, loaded with the Plate they were bringing for Spain, a Robbery of Drake takes the Kings Plate. great Consequence, not so much for the Quantity of the Treasure, as for the Use it is apply’d to in our Monarchy, which is the Advancement of the Catholick Church, and which thereby ceas’d, and deplorable for the unjust Abuses it was to be apply’d to in Scismatical Kingdoms. Having wander’d, Steering various Courses, in which his Pilots made their Observations by Sounding and their Charts, he touch’d at six Islands, to some whereof he gave Names, in Imitation of the fabulous Heroes, and even of true Catholicks, who assign such Names according to their particular Devotion. One he call’d S. Bartholomew, another S. James, and a third, which He gives Names to Islands. he thought larger and more fruitful, New Albion, from the Ancient Name of England, this is California. There he stay’d a Month and a half, refitting his Ships, and sailing thence to those call’d de los Ladrones, or of Thieves, in nine Degrees of North Latitude, kill’d 20 Indians, because they attack’d him with 100 Canoas. Twenty Days after, he came to an Anchor at the Molucco Islands, having before touch’d at others, without any Action Arrives at the Moluccos. worth remembering. His Cruelties, and Robberies might well gain him the Title of the greatest of Pyrates, in those remotest Parts, as he had it in Europe. He came to Ternate, but succeeded not at first, that People being War-like, and at that time Arm’d by their own Malice, and an implacable King. He attempted to barter for Clove, without his Leave, was inform’d how severely he handled such as Transgress’d, and slighting the Advice, the King came to hear of it, and order’d him to be Kill’d. It came very near the Execution; but Drake, whose Genious well experienced in Frauds was no Stranger to Dissimulation, retir’d to his Ships, to make his Escape by Flight. Thence he contriv’d to appease the King, which was no difficult Matter, by means of some Presents he sent him. With them he purchas’d the good Will, and an Audience of that cunning Tyrant, and going ashore several Times to visit him, agreed he should enter into Amity with the Queen, and Nation of England, and that Factories should be settled out of Hand. The King consented, and Drake promis’d him the Protection and Arms of England; and taking with him, among other Gifts, a rich Ring the King gave him for the Queen, he sail’d homewards, with a great quantity of Clove. He met a Portuguese Ship crossing the small Channel of Tydore, but either durst not, or thought not fit to attack her, whether it was for being Inferior in Strength, or out of a Desire of securing the new acquir’d Wealth. Scarce was he got clear of Ternate, before the Winds began to toss him, in that Sea full of Flats, whence they forc’d him, in order Is in a Storm. to deliver him quite up to Tempests. He was oblig’d to lighten his Ships, and among other Things of Value, threw over-Board a Cannon, of an extraordinary Bigness, which the King of Ternate, hearing afterwards of the Storm, caused to be taken out of the deep Sea. Then he built a House before his Palace, on the Roof whereof he planted it openly, and pointing over, either on Account of its Magnitude, or by way of Ostentation, and in Memory of the first Englishman, that came into his Kingdoms, from whom and the Sea he had taken that new offensive Booty. Drake went on to the greater Java, where he laid in Provisions of Cazabi, Plantans, and Floul, in exchange for Cloth. Next he put into another Island, in four Degrees of North Latitude, where he stay’d six Weeks. There he left a Woman, and two Men, all Blacks, that belong’d to him, giving them Fire, Rice, and some Grain, that they might People the Place. An Heroick Foundation of a Colony. Then he continu’d his Voyage, turning in and out to several Places, with unexpected Dammage to all those he touch’d at.

It is to be observ’d, that it being possitively believed in Spain and the Indies, Reflection of the Spanish Author. that none had ever pass’d the Streights of Magellan, since the first Discoverer, except F. Garcia de Loaysa, and one of the Ships sent by Don Gutierre de Vargas, Bishop of Palencia, to the Spice-Islands, it was look’d upon as incredible, that any Pyrates were come into the South-Sea, especially through the Streight, and to the Islands of Ternate, and that Archipelago. This Man was the first that open’d the Passage to the Sectaries Hugonots, Lutherans, and Calvinists, who afterwards pierc’d into those Seas, with Ship Loads of perverted Texts, Heretical Bibles, and other Books of unsound Doctrine; but the Divine Providence has given Proofs, that it is so much Offended at this Hellish Innovation, tho’ it permits Idolatry, and Mahometanism, that it has not suffer’d those Souls which through its profound Judgments, lie involv’d in the Shades and Darkness of Ignorance, to imbibe that Poyson, till it sent them the Gospel in its Purity. It has Oppos’d those new Apostacies making use of, as Instruments of Spanish Religious Men, giving Strength to our King, who protects them, his main Design being the Support of Religion. This Truth plainly appears in the many Victories the Church has obtain’d through his Officers, and the Armies maintain’d in the remotest Parts of the Monarchy, for the Propagation of the Faith preach’d to the most distant Indians.

But the better to demonstrate this true Forecast and Care, I think it a Reason for this Digression. necessary Digression, so far from being superfluous, to relate the Preparations made by the Viceroy Don Francisco de Toledo, directing his Actions to this End, as became a Minister who follow’d his Princes Designs, in Order to secure himself against Drake’s surprizing Celerity and Boldness; for as much of this as concerns the Molucco Islands, obliges us to write it, and we will slightly run over all the particular Passages.

Preparations of the Viceroy. The Viceroy of Peru was of Opinion, That in Order to secure the Indies, their Peace and Religion, and for the removing, at first, of all Obstacles to its Exaltation, and making Examples for a Warning, it was of the greatest Consequence to erect Forts, as divine and humane politick Precautions, and to Arm against that Pyrate, so to give a Check to the Northern Parts by his Punishment. To this Purpose, and in Order to his Destruction, a more exact Observation was to be taken of the Passes into the South-Sea, and more particularly of the Way he was to take, to return into his own Country. He was egg’d on by Fear, or the Loss of Reputation, because some English Ships, Part of Drake’s Squadron, ran along the Coasts of Chile and Arica, obliging the People to Arm; it being apprehended that Drake had erected Forts to secure the Passage, for carrying on the Trade of Spice and Jewels, and the bringing in of perverting Ministers with their poisonous Doctrines. For this Effect, he pitch’d upon Peter Sarmiento de Gamboa, a Gentleman of Galicia, who had twice already engag’d with that Pyrate. The first in the Port of Callao near Lima, where he took from him a Spanish Ship, laden with Commodities of Spain; the second a few Days after, pursuing him as far as Panama. The Viceroy resolv’d he should go to discover the Streights of Magellan, an Enterprize look’d upon as impractable by the South Sea, by Reason of the many Mouths and Channels which obstruct the Access to it, where many Difficultie of the Streight of Magellan. Discoverers sent by the Governours of Peru and Chile have been lost. Others have attempted it, entering from the North Sea, and miss’d of the Streight; some were cast away, or beaten back by Storm, and all generally despair’d of finding it. But now that Terror being remov’d, they can take a fix’d Latitude, settle a Rumb, and steer a safe Course to the Streight, so to secure the Passage before an Enemy possesses himself of it. The Viceroy made Choice of two Ships, which he took Care to see well rigg’d, arm’d and provided. Sarmiento call’d the Bigger, Our Lady of Hope, which was Commodore; the other being subordinate, had the Name of S. Francis. Two Hundred Seamen and Soldiers were put into them, with virtuous and learned Religious Men, fit for that Employ. Sarmiento sent after Drake with two Ships. Captain John de Villalobos was appointed Vice-Admiral. Ferdinand Lamero Head Pilot, and under him Ferdinand Alonso and Antony Pablo, all of them very able Pilots in both Seas. These took an Oath of Fidelity, and the Viceroy gave the Admiral particular Instructions, the Purport whereof was, That they should pursue the Pyrate, fight him till taken or kill’d, and recover the great Booty he had taken upon the King’s Lands His Instructions. and Ships, whatsoever the Hazard might be, since they had sufficient Men, Arms and Ammunition to overcome the Enemy. That they should sail into 50 or 54 Degrees of South Latitude, as might be most Advantageous, about the Mouth of the Streights of Magellan. That both Ships should have Lights out at Night, that so they might not lose Sight of one another in the Dark, but always keep together. He charg’d them to be unanimous in their Consultations, particularly the two Commanders; which Direction was not so well observ’d, as it ought to have been, thro’ the Vice-Admiral’s Fault. They were commanded to lay down the Ports, and Seas in exact Draughts. To take Possession of any Country they landed on for his Majesty. When they met with any Towns of Indians, to mollify and endear them by discreet Courtesy, and gain their Affections with such Gifts, as should for that Purpose be deliver’d to the Commodore, being Sissars, Combs, Knives, Fishing-Hooks, Buttons of several Colours, Looking-Glasses, Hawks-Bells, Glass-Beads, &c. To carry with them some Indians to serve for Interpreters; and so provided discreetly for all other material Points. Then to encourage them he made a Speech, intermixing it with Hopes and Exhortations. The Commodore having conferr’d with his Vice-Admiral and Pilots, concerning the Design of their Voyage; they agreed, That if any Stress of Weather should happen to part the one Ship from the other, they should carefully seek one another out, or make the Mouth of the Streight in the South-Sea to the Westward, there to wait for one another. The next Day being Sunday, the 11th of October, 1579, when they had all confess’d and receiv’d the Holy Eucharist, they embark’d in order to introduce the Faith into those Nations void of all Worship. On Board the Capitana, or greater Ship, the General, or Commodore Sarmiento, F. Antony de Guadramiro, of the Order of S. Francis, and Vicar-General of this Expedition; the Ensign John Gutierrez de Guevara, Antony Pablos, and Ferdinand Alonso, Pilots, with 54 Soldiers. In the other Ship, with John de Villalobos, F. Christopher de Merida, of the said Order of S. Francis, Ferdinand Lamero, chief Pilot of that Ship, His Strength. with whom, and the Seamen and Soldiers, they made 54; and the whole Number in both Vessels as was said above.

They sail’d from the Port of Callao, belonging to the City of Lima, and that Night came to an Anchor at the Island, two Leagues from Callao, in His Voyage. 12 Degrees and a half of South Latitude. On the first of November they pass’d in Sight of those they call Unfortunate, in 25 Degrees, 20 Minutes, which were accidentally discover’d by the Pilot John Fernandez, being bound for Chile the second Time, immediately after Magellan’s Discovery, since the Year 1520. They are now call’d, the Islands of S. Felix, and S. Ambor. Here Sarmiento observ’d the Difference, betwixt this Course, which he calls the True one, and the Imaginary. This he noted down His Care and Capacity. with extraordinary Curiosity, employing all the Care and Art of his Pilots, and his own, which was not inferior to theirs, nor to others in any Martial Knowledge, as will appear by his Treatises, if publish’d, of Navigation, casting great Guns and Bullets, Fortification, and Knowledge in Astronomy, for failing in all Seas. They never quitted the Lead, the Astrolabe, and the Charts, either in the Deep, in Ports, Bays, or among Mountains, and Currents, which produc’d a very ample Relation he sent to King Philip, whence we took this Abridgement. There he sets down the Points in the Heaven answering to the Earth, the Dangers, Islands, Promontories and Gulphs, Geographically and Corographically. He lays down the Rumbs that are to be follow’d, and those to be avoided; and thus distinctly leads us into and thro’ the Streight, giving visible Signs, and also invisible of the Winds for all Ports. At the first unknown Land, where he anchor’d, they found the Latitude to be 49 Degrees and a half Land at the Mouth of the Streights. South. They saw no People, but Tokens of them, as the Prints of Mens Feet, Darts, Oars, and little Nets. They climb’d up vast high Mountains, above two Leagues in the Ascent, over Stones, some of them so sharp, that they cut their Shoes. Others, to avoid them, made their way on the Boughs of Trees. From the Top they discover’d great Channels, Inlets, Rivers, and Harbours, and all the Land as far as their Sight could reach, seem’d to them cut and rent asunder. They judg’d it to be an Archipelago. It is to be observ’d, that our Discoverers give the Name of Archipelagos, to Seas in the New World, which are strew’d thick with Islands, as it were great Stones, like the Archipelago of Greece, so well known to all Nations in the Egean Sea, which contains the Cyclades, tho’ the Name is not ancient. They perceiv’d the Channel to run on, Wide, Spacious, Open and Clean; and were satisfi’d that Drake came out that Way into the South Sea. They found the Latitude by three Astrolabes to be 50 Degrees. The Harbour they call’d of, Our Lady of the Rosary, and the Island of the most Holy Trinity.

The next Sunday, Sarmiento order’d all the Men to land, in order to take Possession, and perform’d all that is contain’d in the Authentick Instrument Sarmiento takes Possession of the Land. of what happen’d that Day, the express Words whereof are thus,

‘In the Name of the most Holy Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, three Persons, and one only God, who is the Beginning, Maker and The Form of it. Creator of all Things; without whom nothing that is Good can be done, began, or preserv’d. And in regard that a good Beginning must be in God, and through God, and in him it is requisite to begin, to his Honour and Glory, and in his most Holy Name, Be it known to all those who shall see this Instrument, that this Day, being Sunday the 22d of November, 1579, this Royal Navy of the Mighty Renowned Lord, King Philip of Spain, and its other Dominions, my Sovereign, being arriv’d in this Country by Order of the most Excellent Lord, Don Francisco de Toledo, Viceroy, Governour, and Captain General of Peru, to discover the Streight of Magellan, under the Command of the General Peter Sarmiento, the Land by him nam’d, Our Lady of the Rosary, and the Bay of, The most Holy Trinity. The said Lord General having landed with most of the Sea and Landmen belonging to his Navy, and the Religious Men, he brought ashore a Cross, which he devoutly worshipp’d, with all his Men. The Religious Men sang the Hymn Te Deum laudamus, and he with a loud Voice, said, That in the Name of his Majesty Philip the Second, our Lord, King of Castile and Aragon, and their Dependencies, whom our Lord God long preserve, with the Addition of greater Kingdoms and Dominions, for the Glory of God, and Good and Prosperity of his Subjects; and in the Name of the most Potent Kings his Heirs and Successors for the Time being; he, as his Commander in chief, and Admiral of this same Navy, and by Virtue of the Order and Instructions given him in his Majesty’s Royal Name, by the said Lord Viceroy of Peru, took, did take, seiz’d, and did seize the Possession of this Land on which he is now ashore, and which he has discover’d for evermore, in the said Royal Name, and of the said Crown of Castile and Leon, as has been said, as being his own, and really belonging to him, by Virtue of the Donation and Gift the Holy Father Alexander the Sixth, Pope of Rome, pass’d Motu proprio, in Favour of their Catholick Majesties Ferdinand the Fifth and Isabel his Wife, King and Queen of Castile and Leon of glorious Memory, and to their Heirs and Successors, of the one half of the World, being 180 Degrees of Longitude, as is more fully contain’d in the said Bull, dated at Rome, on the 4th of May, 1493. By Virtue whereof, these said Lands fall, lye, and are included within the Limits and Meridian of the said Partition of 180 Degrees of Longitude, belonging to the said Royal Crown of Castile and Leon. And as such he takes, and did take Possession of these said Lands, and their Territories, Seas, Rivers, Creeks, Ports, Bays, Gulphs, Archipelagos, and of this said Harbour of the Rosary, where at present this Navy is at Anchor. And he subjects, and did subject them to the Power, Possession and Dominion of the said Royal Crown, as has been said, as being their own Property. And in Token of Possession, or as it were, drawing the Sword he had by his Side, with it he cut Trees, Branches, and Grass, and remov’d Stones, and walk’d over the Fields and Shores, without any Opposition; requiring such as were present to be Witnesses thereof, and me the underwritten Notary, to give him a Testimonial thereof in publick Form. And immediately, taking up a great Cross, and the Men belonging to the Navy being drawn up in a martial Manner, with Muskets and other Arms, they carry’d the Cross in Procession, the Religious Men, F. Antony de Guadramiro, the Vicar and his Companion, singing the Litany, and all the others answering. And the said Procession being ended, the said Lord General planted the Cross on a hard Rock, and rais’d a heap of Stones at the Foot of the Cross, in Token, and as a Memorial of Possession of all the Lands and Seas, discover’d, adjacent, and contiguous. And he gave the Name of Our Lady of the Rosary to this Port, as has been said. And as soon as the Cross was set up, they worshipp’d it a second Time; and they all pray’d, beseeching and intreating our Lord JESUS CHRIST, would be pleas’d that what they did might be for his Glory, and to the End that our Holy Catholick Faith might be exalted and dilated, and the Holy Gospel preach’d and spread abroad among these barbarous Nations, which have hitherto been remote from the true Knowledge and Doctrine; that it may defend and deliver them from the Frauds and Dangers of the Devil, and from the Blindness they are in, that their Souls may be sav’d. And then the Religious Men sung in Honour of the Cross, the Hymn Vexilla Regis. Next the Father Vicar said Mass on an Altar there erected, being the first that was ever said in that Country, to the Honour and Glory of our Almighty Lord God, and for the Extirpation of the Devil and all Idolatry. And he preach’d to that Purpose, and some confess’d and communicated. And as soon as the Mass was said, the General, for a more absolute Token and Memorial of Possession, caus’d a large Tree to be trimm’d, and on it caus’d a very high Cross to be made, and on it plac’d the most Holy Name of our Lord JESUS CHRIST. J. N. R. I. And under it, Philippus Secundus Rex Hispaniarum. Of all which, I John de Esquivel, Royal Secretary to this Navy and Admiral Ship, do give Affidavit and true Testimony, that it was so done as is said. Then follows Esquivel’s Subscription.’

Sarmiento gives Names to Places. Four Days after, Sarmiento, in the Vice-Admiral’s Boat, with the Pilots, Pablos and Lamero, and ten Sailors and Soldiers, with Muskets, Bucklers and Swords, and four Days Provision, set out of this Port to discover the Channels they saw, that they might not endanger the Ships. Going out by the Ridges of Rocks, he run along the Gulph, close to the Shore, all which he observ’d, and sounded the Harbours, giving Names to them and the Mountains, according to their Shapes, such as Sugar-Loaves, Pitchers, Guinea Peppers, and the like. He observ’d the Trees, the Plants and the Birds. At one Place on the Shore he found several Tracts of People, and two Poniards or such Weapons made of Bone, with a Cross on the Handles, near a small Stream of fresh Water, whose Sands are Red, and therefore he call’d it the Red-River, which falls into a Harbour, and that also took the same Name. They saw abundance of Fish, and among the Shells thrown up by the Sea, vast Quantities of Oysters and Mussels, and in those that were left upon the Rocks above the Water, great and small Pearls, some Grey, others White. This Sort of Pearls despis’d for Hunger. Fish, at certain Times, the Shells being first open, gape with their Mouths, and receive the pure and substantial Dew, which, as it were, impregnates them with Pearls, which are in Colour answerable to the Nature of the Dew. If they receive it pure, they produce them white; if disturb’d, they are of a Dark, or other Muddy Colours. Sarmiento describes the Vexation that tormented him and his Men; for being eager to satisfy their Hunger with Oysters and Mussels, and they being unfit to Eat, because of the Hardness of those Pearls they found in them, they threw them away, cursing the Inventors of putting a Value on those Productions, or Hornynesses of Fishes, which Nature had trebly hid in the Waters of the Sea, in Shells, and in the Fish it self. They said, that true Wealth consisted in tame Cattle, Fruit, and Corn brought up by Tillage, as they had in Spain; for that precious Obstacle to feeding, then not valu’d, depriving them of the Sustenance of the Shell-Fish, and being forc’d to live ten Days on the Provision they brought for four, the Fast made them all Philosophers. From this Red Harbour, he was obliged to return to the Ships left in that of the Rosary, no Day passing without violent Storms; when they had run backward, and forward, above 70 Leagues, landing on Islands, and taking Possession of them. They were Fruitful and Habitable, but till then Untill’d and Desart. From a very high Hill, he discover’d the main Chanel, which runs out into the great Ocean, and so many other Channels and small Islands, that they could not be reckon’d up in a long Time. Whilst he staid, he sounded Harbours, Deeps, Channels, Creeks, Inlets, Flats, Roads and Bays, making Draughts of, and giving them Names. He settled the Latitude, and certain Course to be steer’d, in the Presence, and with the Opinion of the Pilots, Seamen, and Soldiers, in order to reconcile those disagreeing Persons by examining all that were present.

Here the Vice-Admiral began to cavil, saying, They were imbay’d, and Vice-Admiral disagrees with Sarmiento. that it was impossible to hold on their Voyage that Way; and would have quitted his Admiral, as he did afterwards. From Red-Port they held on their Course, trying those in other Islands. Sarmiento came to a Bay, which he call’d S. Francis’s, where, as they were taking their Station, a Soldier fired a Piece at some Birds, and in Answer to the Gun, certain Indians, near a Mountain, on the other Side of the Bay, gave horrid Shouts. By the first Noise, the Spaniards thought it had been made by Sea-Wolves, till they discover’d the naked Red Bodies. They afterwards Painted Indians. found the Reason of that Colour, for they daub’d themselves from the Head to the Feet with a glutinous Red-Earth. Sarmiento took some of his Company into a Boat, and coming to a Thicket, found them in the closest of the Trees, without any other Cloathing but that Clay as Red as Blood. Only one old Man, who talk’d to, and commanded, and was obey’d by them, appear’d cover’d with a Cloak of the Skins of Sea-Wolves. Fifteen Youths came out upon the open Shore, near the Sea and drawing near, with peaceable Demonstrations, very earnestly pointed, lifting up their Hands towards the Place where the Ships remain’d. The Spaniards did the same. The Indians came close, and Sarmiento giving them two Towels and a Night-cap, for he had nothing else then, and the Pilots some other Trifles, they were well pleas’d. They gave them Wine, which they tasted and then threw away. They eat of the Bisket, but all this did not satisfy them; for which Reason, and because they were on an open Shore, in Danger of losing the Boat, they return’d to their Station, making Signs to the Indians to go to the Boat. They did so, and Sarmiento posted two Sentinels for the more Security, then forcibly seiz’d one of the Indians for an Interpreter, put him into his Boat, embrac’d him lovingly, cloath’d and fed him. This Place he call’d, The Point of People, as being the first where he found any. Thence he proceeded to Three small Islands, lying in a Triangle, and lay there. They went on, taking Draughts of the Lands, and being before a very craggy Country, the Indian who had never ceas’d shedding Tears, throwing off a Shirt they had put him on, leap’d over-board, and swam away. They held on their Way, quite weary of seeing so many Islands, containing strange Productions of Nature, but without any Inhabitants. Only in one of them, which they call’d, The Cleft Rock, near a deep Cave, they found much Tract of Men’s Feet, and the whole Skeleton of a Man or Woman. They went on thence with Storms through incredible Solitudes, which it would be too much to describe, tho’ our Design were to treat only of this Voyage. At another Land, where they arriv’d full of Uncertainty, as it were by Accident, in the Bay they call’d, Our Lady of Guadalupe, thinking to discover whether one Channel ran to the East, and another to the North; they saw a A Piragua. Piragua, being a Vessel made of Planks put together, without any Sides, and sometimes of Rushes, and of Calabashes, and properly a Float, coming along on the Water, and in it five Indians, who getting to the Shore, left the Piragua, and ran up a Mountain in a Consternation. The Pilot went into the Piragua, with four Soldiers, and the Boat proceeded further.

Coming to another Point, where they thought there were more People, A Cottage and what in it. they only found a low round Cottage, made of Poles, and cover’d with broad Barks of Trees, and the Skins of Sea-Wolves. In it were little Baskets, Shell-Fish, small Nets, and Bones for Sticking of Fish, like Harping Irons and Scrips full of that Red Earth wherewith they dye their Bodies, instead of Cloaths. This is all the Gayity and Habit they use, instead of the Gold and Silks worn in the Courts of Princes. Sarmiento left the Piragua, and return’d to the Ships with only the Boat, because his Provisions were spent. In this small Vessel, and a Brigantine, he found newly built by his Company, whilst they were viewing those most desart Islands, with the Advice of the Vice-Admiral, he went from the Red Harbour, and finding no other safe for the Ships, return’d to the same. Then in the Boat call’d Nuestra Senora de Guia, or Our Lady of the Guide, he went away to make Tryal of the Mouth which appear’d to the Eastward under a mighty long Ridge of Snowy Mountains, so various, that they saw some Tops cover’d with white, others with blew, and others Snow of several Colours. with black Snow. Sarmiento calls that the Continent. There is no Number of the Islands he took Possession of, and those he discover’d, being inaccessible in other Archipelagos, from the Top of a Mountain rising above those about it, and cover’d with blew Snow, which he compares to the Colour of the Turky Stones. This Height he call’d Anno Nuevo, that is, New Year, because he found it on the first Day of the Year, 1580. He left no Saints Name, or the Resemblance of any natural Thing, but what he apply’d to distinguish those Islands he touch’d at, erecting Crosses on them all, and writing as he did in the first. He saw Men, only in these here mention’d.

He ran again in his Boat through those Seas, where Nature seem’d to set up new Islands every Day; and Anchor’d in a Harbour, where, among Sarmiento’s Industry. other Precautions for Navigation, he drew a Meridian Line on the Earth, and mark’d the Magnetick Needles, refreshing them by touching again, because they had receiv’d some Damage by the Storms and Damps. How weak a Guide have Men for mighty Enterprizes! He prosecuted his Discovery of little Islands, and taking Possession; and observ’d an Eclipse for the Benefit of Navigation, in the Port of Misericordia, or Mercy, as he nam’d it. The Vice-Admiral not coming to him, he suppos’d he was return’d to Lima, however he waited for him ten Days, and five more in another newly discover’d, and call’d, Nuestra Senora de la Candelaria, or Our Lady of Candlemas, three Leagues from the other. This Time having been agreed upon between them to expect one another, which when expir’d, each was to make the best of his Way into Spain; Sarmiento being positive, contrary to the Opinion of the Pilots, that there was the Streight of Magellan.

On St. Agnes’s Day he Anchor’d at the Island which forms that Harbour, for which Reason he gave it that Saint’s Name. From the Ridge of a Hill, which hangs bending like a Bow over a River, he perceiv’d five Native Indians, who with Cries and Signs desired him to come to them; the Spaniards answering them in the same Manner, the Indians held up a Indians by Signs show that Drake pass’d that Way. white Scarf, and our Men another. When they were come down to the Shore, they seem’d to request they would draw near. Sarmiento sent them his Ensign, and the Pilot Ferdinand Alonso, with only four Men, that they might not fear; however they durst not come near the Boat. One of our Men went ashore, and yet they would not trust him, yet drawing nearer because he was alone, he gave them Chaquiras, that is, Glass-Beads, Hawks-Bells, Combs, Ear-Rings, and Hempen-Cloth. Observe what mighty Designs were couch’d under those Childish Gifts. Then the Ensign and Pilot came ashore, cherishing and giving them other Toys, and show’d them what every Thing was for, by applying it to the Use before them. This pleas’d them extreamly, as did some little Linnen Flags, or Bannors, our Men carry’d, made of narrow Slips of French Linnen, Canvas, and Silesia Cloth. This made Sarmiento judge that they had before seen Europeans, and they, without being ask’d, signify’d by intelligible Tokens, that two Ships like ours had pass’d that Way, or were still thereabouts, pointing to the South East, and in them bearded Men, clad and arm’d after the same Manner. This was the first Intelligence they found of the English Ships under Drake. The Indians with smiling Countenances promis’d to come again. They went up the Land, and our Men aboard the Ship, which not being far off, Sarmiento came ashore to take Possession, with the usual Religious and Civil Ceremony.

The next Day the Ensign and Ferdinand Alonso were with six Soldiers by break of Day in the Harbour, carrying a considerable Quantity of Toys, to gain the Affections of the Natives, who came also; but would not draw Spaniards catch three Indians. near our Men. They made the same Signs they had the Day before. The Spaniards to be better informed of what Course the English Steer’d, ran at the Indians, and took three of them, every two Soldiers holding one of them, and tho’ they gave our Men many Blows and Bangs, struggling to get loose, they could not prevail, and yet were very strong. The Spaniards put up all that they might get them to the Ship, where Sarmiento receiv’d, and treated them Courteously. They Eat and Drank, and Kindness so far prevail’d, that they laid aside all Fear, and Laugh’d. Being show’d the narrow Slips of Linnen, they pointed with their Hands to a Bay, where the Ships had Anchor’d, with the bearded People, who had Arrows, and Partesans. One of them show’d two, and another one Wound they had receiv’d fighting against the Men of that Fleet.

Vice-Admiral returns to Chile. The Vice-Admiral was now gone back to Chile, and among other Accidents which happen’d in his Return, he was wont to tell, that being come to Island Mocha, he sent his Boat thither to ask some supply of Provisions, and understanding how Friendly they behav’d themselves towards Drake, and that the Hatred those People bear the Spaniards might be an Obstacle to him, his Messengers, by Order, conceal’d their being such, pretending they were Lutherans. The Islanders gave Credit to the Fiction, being desirous He deceives the Indians. to gain Friends, for preserving of their Liberty. Accordingly they sent them Flesh, Bread, and Fruit, with a Letter, in answer to theirs, the Superscription thereof in English run thus, To the very Magnificent Lords, the Lutherans, in the South Sea. Our Men answer’d, That since they had supplied them with such plenty of Provisions, they desir’d they would come and partake. About 30 of the Prime Caciques accepted of the Invitation, and came very Joyfully, in a Canoe, to our Ship. No sooner were they Aboard, than the Vice-Admiral, not regarding their Complaints, gave order to loose the Sails, which were ready, and carry’d them away Prisoners to Chile. Some things that befell him, might justify his deserting his Superior, but they must be left to those who write a particular History of those Actions.

Sarmiento press’d to go back. To return to Sarmiento. In the aforesaid Port of Candelaria, or Candlemass, the Pilots press’d him hard, with Intreaties and Protestations, to do as his Vice-Admiral had done, representing how much his Men were harrass’d and his Ship disabled, and that he had done more than all the Discoverers before him. That they wanted Anchors, Cables, and Rigging; that the Winds oppos’d him, without which it was impossible to proceed. This was a Dangerous Tryal, because amidst the Complaints, and almost Threats of the Pilots, there was a mixture of Flattery, commending him, for that no other Discoverer had ventur’d so far; so that Sarmiento was no He is resolute, and goes on. less mov’d by their Praises than by their Anger. However he bore up against both, and severely check’d the Pilots: Who knows but he might conceal the same Fears they urg’d? And in short, he appear’d so Resolute against all they could say, that he brought them to his Beck. He sail’d thence, keeping the Channel, and about a League to the South-East, the Indians show’d him the way the Bearded Men took, of whom, after killing many, they, as was afterwards known, sav’d one Catherine, and a Boy, both English, who Account of Drake’s Passage. still liv’d among those wild Beasts, which they were more like than Rational Creatures. Somewhat farther in another Island, which the Indians said was call’d Puchachailgua, full of extraordinary high grey Rocks, the bearded Men again fought the Natives without Success. They went on to another Island Nam’d Capitloilgua, on the Coast call’d Cayrayxaxiilgua. Sarmiento did not change the Ancient Names of Countries, when he could learn them. They were sufficiently dismay’d in the next they came at, thinking they were Imbay’d; but presently after they took Heart again, at the Sight of the Channel, which begins at the Mouth called Xaultegua, and it widen’d, bringing them out to a most spacious Sea, full of thousands of Islands. Passing by, in Sight of one of them, they perceiv’d high Smokes; and the Captive Indians began to Weep, and they saw it was for Fear of the Natives, expressing that they were Giants, and fought desperately. Our Men encourag’d them, giving them to understand that they should be able to deal with those People. They went ashore on that Country, which is call’d Tinquichisgua. Sarmiento alter’d it, in Honour of the Cross he Several Islands. erected there, calling it, the Island of the Cross. There he saw Abundance of Whales, Wolves, and other Sea-Monsters, and great Clods of Snow, on the Waves. He made ready his Cannon, and small Arms, providing against both Pirates and Natives, for he expected to find the English possessed of the Land. From that Time he stood upon his Guard, and no Man quitted his Arms. They went on to a third Island, which is the biggest, heard Humane Voices, and saw some Piraguas, with the People that cry’d out, who were crossing from one Island to another. Our Men drew near in the Boat to take a View, and all of them put into a clean Harbour, whence they discover’d a Town, not Barbarous, but Decent and Lofty, like ours in Europe, and abundance of People, who having sunk the Piraguas, Populous Islands. and standing on the Mountains, with their Arms in their Hands, call’d to our Men from a Wood, to Land, as ours did them to draw near the Sea. Among the Trees appear’d many more of those Islanders, with Bows and Arrows, as if they intended to fall on. This made our Men discharge some Muskets at them, the Noise whereof so terrify’d the Indian Women, that they set up hideous Shrieks, and therefore the Spaniards forbore Firing, for fear of losing all hopes of gaining their Affections. By this time the Ship which had been Cruizing up and down, came into the Harbour. Sarmiento made a Gun ready, and the Boat came Aboard, Towing a Piragua after it. Having writ the Instrument of Possession, tho’ he had not inquir’d into the Government of the Inhabitants of that great Town, he Landed on the Shore, whence is discover’d a vast high Mountain, all white with aged Snow, and encompass’d with Rocks. Ancient Relations call’d it Orlanro’s Bell, he being one of Magellan’s Companions. He Sail’d on to 54 Degrees Latitude, at the Point he call’d of S. Isidorus. Near to it the Natives call’d out to him, and coming up to our Men, Embrac’d them familiarly. Tractable Indians. Sarmiento, besides Hawks-Bels, and other Toys, sent them Bisket and Flesh from the Ships. They sat down to Converse, by Signs, with the Ensign, the Pilot, and Eight other Christians, signifying, that they were pleas’d with their Friendship, and those rich Gifts; and gave such confuse Tokens of the English having pass’d that way, as the others had done. Then they return’d to their Huts, and the Admiral having taken Possession, and found the Latitude to be 53 Degrees, and 40 Minutes, advanc’d in sight of the Coast, which eight Leagues from thence lies flat with the Sea, and forms a Shore of white Sand. Before he came to it he Discover’d a prodigious high burning Mountain, cover’d with Snow; where the Fire and the Snow seem, out of natural Courtesy, to Respect one another, and to confine within themselves their Force, and Effects; for neither is the one Quench’d, nor the other Melted by their near Neighbourhood. The Channel carry’d him to the Point he call’d of S. Anne, in 53 Degrees and a half of Latitude. He took possession, and rais’d a heap of Stones, at the Foot of a Cross, and left a Letter written with Charcole-Dust, which he thought incorruptible, in the Shards of an Earthen Vessel, well Pitch’d, among those Stones. In it he declared to all Nations, That those Lands and Seas belong’d to the King of Spain, and by what Title he held them. In the same Letter, he left Orders for his Vice-Admiral, to return to Peru, and give the Viceroy an Account of all that happen’d, till they discover’d the Streight. Indian Presents. The Ship steer’d off with the Ebb, and the Indians when it was gone came down with their Wives and Children, and a Present of great pieces of Sea Wolves, stinking Meat, Sea Foul, call’d Minnos, which are White and Yellowish, Murtina, a sort of Fruit like Cherries, and bits of Flint, bor’d through and Painted, in a small Box of Gold and Silver. Being ask’d, what that was for, and they answering, To strike Fire, one of them took some Feathers he brought, and with them lighted it, as if it were Tinder. A little before, when our Men made a Fire to melt the Pitch, for securing the Vessel the Letter was in, which was left stopp’d at the Foot of the Cross, the Flame spread upon the Mountain, and rais’d a Smoke. The Indians believing they were Fires made by those so much dreaded Enemies of theirs, went away and could not be stopp’d by any means; nor was their Fear groundless, for they answer’d immediatly in the opposite Island, with great Smokes. The River which falls into the Sea at the Point Sarmiento call’d S. John’s; and the Streight dividing these Islands, which is the very Old one of Magellan, look’d and sought after with so much Danger, he nam’d of The Mother of God, changing its first Appellation, that through this Devotion she may obtain of her Son the Salvation of those numberless Provinces, extending the Voice of his Gospel to them, that it might reach the Ears of so many Souls, most of which are Ignorant of their own Immortality, without knowing any more than common Nature has taught them.

Possession taken. Sarmiento was so well pleas’d with having thus express’d his Devotion, that when he return’d to Spain, he intreated the Kings, to direct that Streight to be generally so call’d, and his Majesties Orders. The Possession of this so remarkable Place was taken with extraordinary Joy, inserting in the Instrument the Clause of Pope Alexander the 6th’s Bull, the Title that gives the Kings of Castile, and the Limits assigned by the Line he drew through both the Poles of the World, as Gods Vicar. F. Guadramiro said Mass, and they all heard it devoutly, considering it was the first offer’d up in that Place by Man to his Creator. It was intended as a Thanksgiving, and they all took Courage to undertake any difficult Enterprize. They saw the Track of Tigers, and Lions, and also White and Grey Parrots, with Red Heads; and they heard the sweet Notes of Goldfinches, and other Birds. Holding on their Course along the Channel, with excessive hot Weather, they came into a Bay, that was cover’d with white Weeds, and Anchor’d at the Point, on which a Company of Giants immediatly appear’d, who call’d out to them, lifting up their Hands Unarm’d; our Men imitated their Actions, which denoted Peace on both sides. They being come to the Boat, which was Guarded by ten Musketeers, the Ensign leap’d Ashore, with four others. The Giants made Signs to him to lay down his Leading-Staff, and then they withdrew, to the place where they had hid their Bows and Arrows. The Ensign did as they directed, and then shew’d them the Toys and Gifts he design’d for them. This withheld them, but still they were jealous, wherefore our Men supposing their jealousy proceeded from what they had suffer’d before, and guessing they had receiv’d some dammage from the English Pyrate, to be the better enform’d of it, ten of our men fell upon one of the Giants, whom they took; but had enough to A Giant Taken. do to secure him. The others running to their Arms, return’d so quick upon the Spaniards, that they had scarce time to get into their Boat. They shot their Arrows, which flying thick, and our Men taking care to avoid them, they dropt two Muskets. The Steward of the Ship was shot in the Eye with an Arrow. The Indian they took was a Giant even among the other Giants, and the Relation says, he look’d to them like one of the Cyclops. Other Relations assure us, each of these Giants is above three Yards high, and they are proportionably spread and brawny. Being brought into the Ship, he was extraordinary melancholy, and tho’ they offer’d him the best they had to Eat, he would take nothing all that Day. They set Sail, crossing Channels, and passing by Islands, in most of which they saluted them with Smokes. In the narrowest Part, which they call’d of Our Lady of Grace, through which they must pass of Necessity, and is Other Indians. in 53 Degrees and a half Latitude, Sarmiento was of Opinion, Forts might be erected on the two Capes to secure the Passage. They made haste thro’ it, and again saw the Natives on another Point of Land, calling out, and shaking their Cloaks, or Woolly Blankets. Sarmiento went to them with eighteen Soldiers. Only four Indians appear’d with Bows and Arrows, and making Signs of Peace with their Hands, said, Xiitote, which, as was afterwards known, signifies Brothers. They posted themselves on a rising Ground, and when the Spaniards were landed, made Signs to them for one of our Men to come to them. One went unarm’d, with some Gifts, as Glass-Beads, Hawks-Bels and Combs, which they receiv’d pointing to him to go down again. He did so, and the Ensign went up in his stead, obliging them with other Presents. They accepted of them, and yet neither they, nor any Courtesie could dispel their Jealousie. Sarmiento left them, to avoid provoking them, and going up the Mountain another way, to view the Ridge, Plains, and Channels, the four Archers appear’d before him, and without any Provocation receiv’d, but on the contrary after receiving the aforesaid Gifts, they furiously assaulted our Men, wounding the General with two Arrows in the Side, and betwixt his Eyes; and another Soldier had an Eye put out. The rest of the Spaniards covering themselves with their Bucklers ran at them, but the Giants fled up the Country so swiftly, that a Musket Ball would scarce over-take them. This Action seems to verifie the Cowardice the Authors of Fabulous Books, commonly call’d Romances, ascribe to their Giants. Sarmiento view’d the Land, call’d it Nuestra Senora del Valle, or Our Lady of the Vale, discovering betwixt two spacious Ridges, some delightful Plains, numerous Towns, lofty Buildings, Towers and Pinacles, and to his Thought sumptuous Temples of so Majestick an Appearance, that he scarce believ’d his own Eyes, and judg’d it an imaginary City.

The End of the Third Book

THE
HISTORY
OF THE
Discovery and Conquest
OF THE
Molucco and Philippine Islands, &c.

BOOK IV.

These Endeavours us’d by Spain to shut out the Monsters of Heresy, dispell’d the Dread spread abroad by Drake, and his Reasons for Digressions. Example in the North and South Seas. And since his coming to Ternate, oblig’d us to write all these Particulars, we could not, once they began to have any Place in this Relation, forbear making it perfect by delivering the Success of them. A compleat History is the Witness of Times, the Light of Truth, the Life of Memory, and in fine the Mistress of Life. Therefore, to perform the Duty incumbent on it from such important Employments, it is not to spare any notable Digressions; especially when they deviate but little from the main Subject, and have some Connexion with it. This here is due to a most prudent Action of King Philip IId. and his Ministers; and shows his Catholick Indignation against Sectaries, and his Zeal for preserving the Faithful of his Indies untainted, and improving the Disposition in the Souls of Idolaters, towards drawing them to the Faith. It demonstrates how he compass’d the whole World by Means of his Commanders, that he might introduce the said Faith in all Corners thereof; to the Reputation of his Watchfulness in the Service of this Mistical Empire, which is now Militant, in order to its being Triumphant. For this Reason it is absolutely Necessary, not to conceal Sarmiento’s Resolution, nor to leave him in those remote Seas, till we have brought him back to Spain, and then we will return to the Molucco Islands, which were in the mean while busy about their own Destruction.

Sarmiento did not go up to the great City he discover’d at a Distance, because he would not depart from his Ship, to which he return’d, leaving us still desirous to be throughly satisfi’d of so strange a Thing. By the Way he found two extraordinary long Cloaks, or Barbarian Blankets, made of Sheep-Skins, with the Wooll on, and a pair of Shoes made of raw Hides to bind about the Feet, which the Indians could not carry off, thro’ the fearful Precipitation of their Flight. They continu’d their Discovery, South Coast. and the Wind oblig’d them to strike over to the Southern Coast, five Leagues distant from Our Lady of the Vale; and tho’ the cold Winds blew, they found this Country more Temperate than the others. It is inhabited by proper People, has wild and tame Cattel, and Game, as was declar’d by Philip, so they call’d an Indian they brought over, in Honour to King Philip. It produces Cotton, a certain Sign of its being Temperate; and Cinnamon, by them call’d Cabea. The Air is very serene, and the Stars appear bright, so that they are plainly to be observ’d, lay’d down, and describ’d. Sarmiento says it is useful in those Parts to observe the Crozier, which is 30 Degrees above the Antartick Pole, and that he made use of it, for taking of Latitudes, as we do in our Hemisphere of the North Star, Observations for Sailors. tho’ with another Sort of Computation. And in Regard that the Crozier does not serve all the Year, he sought out another Polar Star, nearer to the Pole, of a shorter Computation, but general and perpetual; and he us’d such Industry, that he discover’d, and ascertain’d it by Observations, and Experiments of several clear Nights. He settled the Stars in the Crozier, and two other Croziers, and two other Polar Stars, which take a very small Compass; this he did for the common Benefit of curious Sailors. Notwithstanding all these Tokens, and the Incouragement of humane Curiosity, no Man has ever gone to those Towns, which had such promising Signs of Civility; tho’ those rude Giants did not seem to confirm those Appearances of a well-settled Country. Sarmiento ran along the Streight, Sarmiento comes into the North Sea. never ceasing to sound, and lay it down till he came to a Cape, he call’d, Of the Holy Ghost, from which to that of the Virgin Mary, there are 110 Leagues from the South to the North Sea. Here they began to order their Course with due Difference. They saw Whales, and on the Shores, Thickets of several unknown Plants. They ran thro’ Storms and Dangers, surprizing even to such experienced Sailors as they were. They all vow’d Offerings to Churches, Alms, and Pilgrimages to Places of Devotion in Spain, with other solemn Engagements, on which fearful Mortals in Danger, devoutly ground and encourage their Hopes. The Tempest ceas’d, and on the 25th of March, about Midnight, Sarmiento saw a low white Rainbow, opposite to the Moon, which was moving against it; and it was occasion’d by Repercussion of her Rays, which fell by Refraction on the opposite Clouds. He says, That neither he nor any other Person, ever saw, heard, or read of the like; but by his good Leave, in Albericus Vespusius’s Epitome of Voyages, we read that the same happen’d in the Year 1501, in that same Place, where both of them taking the Sun’s Altitude, they found him in 23 Degrees large, which is as good as 15 Leagues. This Day they were within the Tropick of Capricorn. Proceeding forward, they lost their Reckoning, and the Hopes of recovering it, for Want of Mathematical Instruments; but on the first of April, 1580, at Night, they discover’d, and observ’d the Polar-Star of the Triangle in 21 Degrees; and on the 10th of the same Month, they saw the Anchors at the Island Ascention. Island of the Ascention, at eight Leagues Distance. They anchor’d there, found Water, and saw several Crosses, erected by some Portugueses, who in their Way to India, were cast away there by a Storm, and the Living, out of Devotion, set them up on the Graves of those that dy’d. On one of them they found a Board nail’d, with this Inscription, Don John de Castel Rodrigro, Commodore, arriv’d here with five India Ships, on the 13th of May, 1576. Near to it, Sarmiento set up another, as a Memorial, that the first Ship coming from Peru, touch’d there, having pass’d thro’ the Streight from the South to the North-Sea, on the King’s Account, with the Occasion of his Voyage. This Island abounds in Sharks, which are Ravenous Birds. Sea-Monsters, Fish, and a Sort of such greedy and troublesome Fowl, that they make at whatsoever they see. They took the Ensigns Hat off his Head, to snatch away a Letter he had stuck in it. He sav’d his Hat, by clapping up his Hand immediately, but lost the Letter, which they pull’d away by force; and afterwards they saw a Fray in the Air, the others endeavouring to take it from that Harpy, which first snatch’d it away. This Island lies in 7 Degrees and a half of South Latitude, and it is very observeable, that tho’ the Spaniards were very attentive to their Compass, and took so many Precautions for their Security, yet such was the Force of the several Currents, that when they thought they were 60 Leagues from Pernambuco East and West, at the River of Virtues, on the Coast of Brazil, they found themselves 400 Leagues to the Eastward; so that the Currents deceiv’d, and drove them 340 Leagues from the Point they had settled by the Degree of Latitude. Sarmiento discourses largely upon this Effect, charging the Sea-Charts with Falshood, and being ignorantly laid down. Dreadful Tempests ensu’d, till on the 28th of April, on the Coast of Guinea he discover’d Sierra Liona, abounding in Gold, and Blacks. Then the Islands they call of Idols, and beyond them those of Vixagaos, inhabited by stout Black Archers, who shoot poison’d Arrows, wherewith, such as are wounded, presently dye raving. On the 8th of May they all fell sick on the Coast of Guinea, of Fevers, Lameness, Swellings, and Imposthumations in their Gums, which in that Country prove Mortal, by Reason of the Excessive Heat, and then for Want of Water; but Heaven reliev’d them with seasonable Rain. When they labour’d to make the Islands of Cabo Verde for some Refreshment, the Winds drove them off. They bore up without finding Land, or any Ship, till on the 22d of May, being in 15 Degrees 40 Minutes of North Latitude, they descry’d two Sail. Sarmiento believ’d they had been Portugueses, and was desirous to make up to hale them; but upon better Observation perceiv’d, the one was a Tall Ship, the other a Sloop, both of them French, who pursu’d and endeavour’d to get to Windward of him. The Sloop came foremost to view our Ship, which made good its Advantage. When they Fight with the French. were come in Sight of the Island of Santiago, the French held up a Naked Sword, and then fir’d some Shot. The Spaniards answer’d with their Muskets, which was then done by both Sides, and several French Men fell, tho’ on our Side never a Man was kill’d, but some wounded, and then they fled more swiftly than they had pursu’d. Those on the Island beheld the Ingagement, and thinking it had been Counterfeit, and both the Ships French, they stirr’d not out to Succour either. When the Pirate was quite fled, a Caravel of Algarve arriv’d coming from Portugal, which discover’d the Pirate’s Name, and Strength; declaring he had 85 Men in the Ship, and 25 in the Sloop, and among them a Portuguese Pilot. That he had plunder’d four other Ships, and the said Caravel, at Cape Blanco, on the Coast of Africk; and at the Island of May, not far from Santiago, had sunk another Caravel, belonging to the Royal Navy, which was sailing for Brazil, in order to People Paraguay; where the English had of late Years built Towns, intermarrying with, and being attracted by the Love, and Children they had by the Tapuyer Indian Women.

Sarmiento at Cabo Verde. Sarmiento Landed at Cabo Verde, the Custom-House of which City yearly is worth to the King 100000 Ducats. There are always in it 20000 Blacks, because of the settled Trade for them. Before he Anchor’d, there came Boats from the Shore, to view his Ship, and he telling them, he came from Peru, through the Streights of Magellan, they were amaz’d. They return’d to give an Account to their Governor Gaspar de Andrade, and told him, That those that came in the Ship, were Men of several Shapes, Deform’d, and Ill-look’d, and others with long tangled Hair and Locks. These were some Indians of Peru and Chile. As for the Rest Sarmiento has these Words, As to our being Ill-look’d, they did not wrong us; for besides that we had no effeminate Countenances, the Powder and Sweat of our Volleys of small Shot, a little before, had not set us off to any Advantage; and, in short, we had more mind to some Water than to look like Beaus. However, neither he nor his Men went Ashore, till they had satisfy’d a Pratick Master that none of them were infected with the Plague. The next Day they Landed bare-Foot, in Procession, with Crosses, and Images, repairing to the Church of our Lady of the Rosary, where they gave Thanks, Alms, and other effects of their Vows, with extraordinary Joy; for every Storm is so much Honour, when recounted in safe Harbour. They Confess’d, and receiv’d the Blessed Sacrament at a Mass they had Vow’d to cause to be said. The Governor, Don Bartholomew Leytao, Entertain’d, and made much of them, tho’ at first he would not believe they had pass’d the Streight. The Sick were Cured, and the Ship and Boat which were much shatter’d, re-fitted. The main Design of this Voyage, which was to Fight Drake, and provide the proper Defence against the Designs of the Enemy, had not been compass’d; and therefore Sarmiento, having Fought the French Ship, and Sloop, which appear’d again, alarming that Coast, and both of them flying back with all speed, after being Shatter’d and Beaten, to the Island Mayo, or of May, the common Shelter of Robbers; He redoubled his Watchfulness, and went on to get Intelligence of the English, as well those that pass’d the Streight with Drake, as of those new Planters in Brazil, or Paraguay; as also of the Inclination of the Subjects of the Crown of Portugal, to submit to King Philip, or Don Antony. A Pilot of Algarve inform’d him, That the Intelligence he receives. Year before, betwixt Ayamonte and Tavira, two English Merchants, speaking of the Indies, assured him, that Drake was gone thro’ into the South Sea; and by the Time, the News agreed with what the Indians of the Streight had signify’d to him by Signs; and that he arriv’d safe in England, with two Ships fraught with Gold and Silver of that notable Robbery, which he presented to the Queen. She fitted out five other Ships, with three Years Provision, to return to the Streights of Magellan, to seek out those that had been lost there; and Drake eight more. That the first five were already gone in Decemb. last. That the Merchants had entrusted him with that Secret, taking him for a Portuguese, and who, as such, would not discover it to the Spaniards. By the French he was informed, That as soon as they had brought off some Ships with Blacks from Castro Vedre, they would go over to the Island Margarita, and thence to the North-ward, from the Island of Santo Domingo to Yaguana, whence they came not above four Months since, Loaded with Hides, and Sugar. That they had kill’d Captain Barbudo, in the Island Margarita, in Revenge for the English he had slain. That having taken the Governor of Brazil, they again set him at Liberty. That all their Pilots are Portugueses. He was also told by others who came from thence, and by Captains of Reputation, who were English in Paraguay. returning thither, that in the Bay of Paraguay, near Rio de Janeyro, which is in 21 Degrees, 12 Minutes South Latitude, there had been for eight Years last past, Colonies of English among the Tapujers; with whom for the three last Years, the Portuguese were at War, and had kill’d most of them.

That it is suppos’d the Natives, who are Man-Eaters, had devour’d most of those that fled up the Country. He pick’d up other Intelligence from England, concerning their Navies, their Colonies in those Parts, and Design of Usurping the Molucco Islands with all their Strength, and to render themselves Invincible Masters of the Spice. They dispatch’d a Boat, with these Advices to the Viceroy of Peru; for Sarmiento could not return himself by the way of Brazil and Paraguay, because the force of the Currents had drove him away into the Main Sea, East-ward. Before his Departure, Sarmiento Strangles his Ensign, and Punishes others. he caus’d his Ensign to be Strangled, as a Traytor to his King, to the Dishonour of his Post, and an Obstructor of the Discovery. Two other Soldiers he Bannish’d, one of them from the Indies, and shew’d Severity to some of the Company, on Account of the same Crime, which, it was believ’d, had not been so fully prov’d upon them, as is requisite for inflicting the usual Punishment.

From this Port he sail’d to the Westward, till he came to the Channel between the Island Fuego and that of Santiago, where one of the Ships that came out with him stay’d. Steering Norwest, one Point over or under, Advice-Boat sent the Viceroy of Peru. for that is the Course to the Island S. Anton, he thence dispatch’d the Advice Boat for the Viceroy of Peru, with eight Men, commanded by Ferdinand Alonso. In thirteen Days more he pass’d betwixt the Island Graciosa, one of the Azores, small, but fruitful, and populous, and that of S. George, in which he saw prodigious high Fires. Those he afterwards found verified Conflagration in the Island of S. George. by the Bishop, at Angra, where he resides. That on the first of June that same Year, there were dreadful Earthquakes in the Island of S. George, Voices of Devils were heard, and among other wonderful Effects, the Earth open’d in three Places, whence Streams of Fire ran as far as the Sea. Those continu’d, and seven more broke out, casting forth as many Rivulets of Liquid Fire; one of which ran round an Hermitage, and nine Men running to save some Bee-Hives from being burnt, another Mouth open’d, which swallow’d seven of them, and sing’d the other two. So much Ashes fell like Rain upon the Earth, that it was cover’d a Span deep, and in short, all the Island was on Fire. Sarmiento held on his Course, and on the 18th of June, arriv’d at the City Angra, on the Island Tercera, the Chief of the Azores, where also came in a Ship from the Town of Bernambuco, and another from Baya de todos os Santos, in Brazil. These being ask’d, What they knew of the English, assur’d him, That in November last past there came five White Men, with fifteen Indians, who were going to Isleos, and the Portuguese Towns by Land; and going along the Shore, they on a sudden, at Rio de las Cuentas, lighted upon an English Sloop. Seven of the Some English in Brazil. Men were ashore drying their Sails, and as soon as they saw the Travellers they fled. The Portuguese persisted pursuing them; but the English letting fly some Arrows, held on their Flight, two of them up the Mountain, and the other five along the Coast, till they got into the Sloop. They cut their Cables, and left behind them two large Carriages for Guns.

The Travelers desir’d them to come ashore, and offer’d them Meat, and all other Necessaries, assuring them they meant no Harm. They answer’d, they would not come, and show’d Muskets, Cross-bows and Pikes, pointing a small Gun, to fire at them. It was then Ebb, and they departed six Leagues from thence, to sail near the River de las Cuentas. That at the Island Cape, over-against Camamu, another Portuguese Ship, that knew nothing of this Sloop, lighted on it, when there were only three English Men left in her, the rest being kill’d ashore, with Arrows by the Natives. In short, the Sloop was cast away, five Men of it being taken, who declar’d, that it came with a Squadron of ten Ships, in which a certain great Englishman An English Squadron. pass’d the Streights of Magellan. That they return’d thence Coasting along, to plant a Colony in the most convenient Place for their Purpose, the Admiral having 500 Men aboard for that End. Four Hundred of them were Soldiers, the rest Seamen, and other Mechanicks. That all this Squadron Anchor’d in an Island of Cainbals, or Man-Eaters, and a Storm rising, nine of them sail’d away, but the Admiral not being able to get from her Anchors time enough, was Cast away, none being sav’d but those that came The Admiral cast-away. in the Sloop, and they escap’d by being then gone to Water. One of these five was 35 Years of Age, and an able Mathematitian. He affirm’d, That those who escap’d the Storm, would soon return to the Coast of Brazil, with a numerous Fleet. Among other Particulars, he told them, that they found an Inscription with the King of Spain’s Arms, in that part of the Island Cananca, where they were, which their Commander in chief took away, and set up in the Place of it another, with those of England. Besides all this, three of those Ships that escap’d the Storm, coming before the Portuguese Town of Rio de Janeiro, to make the Cape, and find out the other six, the Governor of that Place, sent out four Canoes to take Cognisance of them, which on a sudden fell in with another Long-Boat belonging to the English, who, as soon as they spy’d the Canoes, made away, but could not do it so fast as to save all. They took Three, and the Governor sent them to Bahia; but the Ships made away with all their Sails. The Prisoners own’d, That in case they met with their Ships at the Cape, they English at Brazil. were resolv’d to go to Parayba, or Pernambuco. In other Respects they agreed with the Account given by those in the Sloop. The English arriv’d at Brazil about November, 1579, at the same Time that Sarmiento was seeking for the Streight; and this agrees with the confuse Signs the Brutish Indians of those Parts made to him, as he Touch’d on their Coasts. His chief Care being to enquire into these Matters, he was inform’d by the Ship of theirs cast-away. Corregidor, that is the Governor in Civil Affairs of Angra, that on the second of November, that same Year, another English Ship was Cast-away at Gualva, a Town two Leagues distant from that City, with six Men in it, two whereof, and a Black were sav’d. It appear’d there had been 300 Men in the Ship, and much Wealth, which was thrown into the Sea, during the Storm. That they were going to plant Colonies in India, and most of the Men dy’d on the Coast of Guinea; and perhaps this might be one of the nine Ships aforesaid. The People of Gualva drew out of the Sea fifteen heavy pieces of cast Iron Cannon, but could not get out several others. The fifteen are of an extraordinary Magnitude, as it were for some settled Fort. To conclude, he was inform’d, and Time has since verified it, that they were preparing in those Northern Parts to rob us of the Treasure of Metals, and Spice there is in those Countries, and in exchange to Introduce their Sects. The final Success of both the Spanish and the English Admirals, was that they arriv’d safe in their respective Countries, forsaken Drake’s Treasure seiz’d. by the Vice-Admirals. Drake return’d to London, with an immense Treasure, which the Queen seiz’d, alledging, That Don Barnardino de Menoza, then the Spanish Embassador at that Court, demanded Restitution, as belonging to his K. and the rest of it taken from his Subjects; but she adjudg’d it to her own Cofers, in Recompence for the Dammage sustain’d, when the Spaniards supported her Rebels in Ireland. Drake was not enrich’d by his Robberies, nor did he gain any Reputation by his Actions; but on the contrary he was slighted in England, either because they knew what he did was not Honourable, or that generally a Man’s own Country is Sarmiento in Spain. ungrateful to him. Sarmiento departing from Angra with a fair Wind, discover’d the Coast of Spain on the 7th of August, and arriv’d at Cape S. Vincent, full of Intelligence and News from so great a Part of the World, and of the Designs of several Nations, and the Crown of Portugal. His Arrival, and Account produc’d the fitting out of other Fleets, and fresh Preparations in Spain, and in the Indies, which extended to the Relief of the remotest Parts. One of them was the Reducing of Ternate, and the sending over one hundred Spanish Families, arm’d, provided and examin’d, as to Quality and Virtue, to be the first Inhabitant of those Desarts upon the Streight. They carry’d Tools, Arms, Instructions, and all Necessaries to fortifie the narrow Parts of it. Sarmiento went as Chief, and Governour of those Dominions. This Project prov’d unsuccessful, and in the general Opinion of all Men, it was through the Fault of the Genéral Sancho Flores. Afterwards Sarmiento was taken, and set at Liberty in England where he had Conferences with the Queen and Drake upon this Subject, whence he drew Information for the Execution of greater Designs.

King Henry of Portugal dyes. This Year King Henry Dy’d in Portugal, when he had Reign’d but thirteen Months. Five Governours had the Administration during the Interregnum, and were disturb’d by the Arming of Don Antonio, within the Kingdom, and by King Philip’s Forces already advancing into the Frontiers. So that neither Government could do any more than consult about the present Exigencies; which at that Time were neither perfect Peace nor open War, there being Hopes that they would lay down their Arms, and joyn with their true Prince, whom the Portuguese is wont to Love, as a Father, rather than as a King. However there were some Troubles, and Commotions. Private Discord is an inseparable incident to all Governments, and that draws the Thoughts of Men after it, and is often the Original of general Calamities, tho’ it be moderated, or justify’d by a sincere Zeal.

King Philip enter’d Lisbon supporting his Right by his Power, and King Philip the II. at Lisbon. whilst the other Provinces, which compose that Monarchy in Spain, Africk, Asia, and the East-Indies submitted to him, he bestow’d Favours, gave Laws, confirm’d the Old, ratified Priviledges, and gain’d Affections by his Presence, and a General Pardon, which he extended to those who had offended him. On the 15th of November 1582, he swore to observe those Laws establish’d by his Predecessors, and particularly by King Emanuel, as then next Heir to the Crowns of Spain, for himself and his Son, Prince Michael, whom God took to a better Kingdom in his Infancy. Those Laws were afterwards sworn to by King Sebastian, and all of them imported, that all Honours, Employments, Benefices, and the Management of the Revenue of the Crown, with all other Commands by Sea and Land, in Portugal, Africk, India, the Islands and all other Parts already conquered, or to be conquer’d by that Crown, shall be in the Hands of Natural born Portugueses. And by the 24th Chapter of these Laws, it was establish’d, that in fitting out Fleets He Swears to maintain the Laws. for India, or otherwise for Defence of the Kingdom, or suppressing of Pyrates, the King should take the necessary Measures with the Kingdom of Portugal, though he should use the Assistance of his Majesties other Dominions. They were sensible that this favourable Law, without infringing the Antient Laws, made way for employing the Forces of the Crown of Castile, in the Recovery, or Preservation of the Kingdoms of the Eastern Archipelago, where at that Time the Christians suffer’d Martyrdom, without any Opposition. And the King for the Recovery of Ternate, especially consider’d the Conveniency of the Philippine Islands, which lie more opportune than India; the Justness of which Reflection has been confirm’d by the Event.

India at this Time was govern’d by the Viceroy Fernan Tellez, to whom King Philip the second Writ, representing how favourable an Opportunity he had to do God good Service, to secure the Tranquility of Christendom, and settle Peace, which inestimable Advantages would be owing to his Fidelity and Care, if through them those Provinces should be united to the Monarchy, without any Trouble, by continuing Loyal, and providing that the Tributary Kings should do the same. He put him in Mind that Services India submits to him. become the more valuable by the surmounting of the greatest Difficulties, and gave him good Hopes of a Reward, which would have been fulfill’d, had he come home to see the Effects of them and his Services. But Fernan Tellez had no need of any such Promises, or of the Perswasions which are as good as Commands, contain’d in Letters from Ministers of State, and sent with the King’s Letter. These being sent over Land, came Tellez the Viceroy Loyal. to his Hands in six Months, and he either preserving, or gaining their Affections had so much Forecast as to confirm the King, Princes, and Sangiacks, who, in those remote Parts, pay subjection to the Crown of Portugal; before he knew any thing of the Orders sent him, or of the additional Estate the King was pleas’d to confer on him. By his Authority he disappointed some Projects of Confederacies, set a foot for the recovering of their Former Liberty, hoping by the Example of the King of Ternate, that the Revolutions in Europe might turn to their Advantage. But in despight of these Contradictions and Changes, Fernan Tellez so far prevailed, as that the Religious Mendicants, and the Jesuits, continu’d the preaching of the Gospel, with such Fervour, that they defy’d even Tyranny it self. The Conversions of Idolater Princes are truly and elegantly related in the Writings and Books of the Missions of the Society, and other Ecclesiastical Histories; so that they excite, and inflame Devotion in the Breasts of such as read them. There may be seen, how the Truth was embrac’d, with all possible Affection; how hastily, and eagerly they learn’d the Catechism; what Rejoycings the Catechumens made on the Day they were baptiz’d; Queens, and Princesses worshipping the Images of Saints; and sweeping the new Churches, and Chappels with their own Hands; with what Attention, and Exactness they honour’d the Ceremonies of the Church, and lastly, how they frequented the Sacraments, and improv’d in Christianity.

All this was Persecuted, and Extirpated by the King of Ternate; who was now so far from enduring any neighbouring Empire, that he struck a Dread into the remotest; insomuch, that tho’ they were all sensible they King of Bachian kill’d. ought in all good Policy to support the Kingdoms of Tydore and Bachian, yet they became lookers on, as it were on a Stage, to behold the Assaults given, and the Cruelties acted at the Sieges. And in the latter of them, whilst throughout India the Standards were display’d in submission to Spain, the King of Ternate enter’d Bachian, and press’d on so vigorously, that he took the Forts by main Force, and made the principal Sangiacks Prisoners. At the Taking of the City of Bachian, the King of the Island was slain in Fight, with all the Portugueses that assisted him; and the Prince, his Son, taken, who was then a Christian, but soon after, having taken an Oath of Fealty to the Conquerer, and Apostatiz’d from the True Religion, he was miserably Restor’d to his Kingdom, exchanging the Hopes of his Souls Salvation, for the Pernicious Fables of the Alcoran, to which he has adhear’d till this time; tho’ in Temporals he now owns the sovereign Dominion of our King. The War with the Tydores lasted longer, the two Navies fighting with indifferent Success, and Victory changing sides, according Molucco way of Fighting. to various Accidents. These Princes method of making War depends on Ambushes, and Stratagems, where Subtilty supplies the place of Strength. It is rare that either side is much weakned; because as soon as sensible of the others Advantage, the Weaker flyes, and reserves himself for better Fortune; nor do they look upon it as Dishonourable to fly, for in those Parts they have but rude Notions of the Laws of Honour. The last Action, after they had sustain’d the Siege with extraordinary Magnanimity, was a Sally made by the Portuguese and Tydores from the Fort, with much Order and Conduct, Attacking the Enemies Camp with such Bravery, that Battle of Tydores and Ternates. tho’ they were much superior in number, they could not stand the Fury of the King of Tydore. The Ternates being put to Flight, imbark’d after a great Slaughter of their Men, and never stopp’d till they came to Talangame, so they call the Harbour of Ternate on that side. The Tydores pursu’d, and being flush’d with Victory despis’d the Succours the Ternates had ready in that Place, which Addition made them renew the Fight with fresh Vigour, and wrest the Victory which then inclin’d to the Tydores. These without breaking their Order, retir’d and imbark’d; and hasting back in their Carcoas came to Tydore, where they fortify’d themselves against what might happen. The King of Ternate return’d to this City in Triumphant Manner, making a Show of some Prisoners.

The News of the Union of Portugal to Castile, was now known throughout all those Eastern Parts, and so well receiv’d, that instead of offering at any Opposition, they all joyfully submitted, hoping they should be protected by a more powerful Arm, than they had been before. Nor were they deceiv’d in their Expectation, for, pursuant to what the King had sworn at Lisbon, concerning the Fleets, for suppressing of Pyrates, and Garrisoning the Coasts of Africk, he granted his Royal Order, for all the Governours of the Philippine Islands to take Care to relieve the Moluccos, and all other the Dominions in India, belonging to the Crown of Portugal, making use of New Spain, and all other Kingdoms subject to the Crown of Castile, there being more conveniency for supplying them from thence, than even from India.

The King of Ternate, being sensible of the Change of Times, and how much greater Forces threatned him than before; and that he should not be suffer’d to reign, without submitting to a Superior, he grew better advis’d, Nayque Embassador for Spain. and sent an Ambassador to Lisbon. The Ambassador was Cachil Nayque, well known for the Antiquity of his Family, and brave Actions. Nayque signifies a Tribune, or Commander. He embark’d with much Wealth of those Parts, as Porcelane, Chinese Silks, Calico’s and Muslins, Spice, Fruit, Aromatick Woods and Barks, and Preserves of the same; and passing between the Islands of Pangicaz and Manado, near to that of Celebes, keeping off from the Equinoctical, coasted it and cross’d the Line His Voyage. again, till he came to Borneo. There he visited the King, who was at Tayaopura, and deliver’d him Letters from his Master, attempting by Word of Mouth, to unite him to the Molucco Nation against the Crown of Spain. Contenting himself with the first Hopes, he pass’d on betwixt Cremato and Surato, and cross’d the Islands Pulo and Linga, in sight of the greater Java, thence thro’ the Streight of Malaca, by the great Ones of Banca and Bintam, in the Port whereof were then the 20 Ships, which are sent from Sumatra every Year, loaded with Pepper. He barter’d away much of what he had in his own Ship, and propos’d a general Revolt to all Streights of Sincapura and Sabao. Nations. There are two Streights there; the one of Sincapura, so call’d from that City built on the Coast of Malaca; and the other of Sabao, from an Island of that Name, and this leads to Sumatra. Nayque steer’d this Course, and soon put into the Harbour which lies going out of the Channel.

This great Island, opposite to Malaca, and divided from it by a Bay full Sumatra describ’d. of Ridges, of Rocks and Shoals, and above a thousand smaller Islands, was formerly a Peninsula, and contiguous to Malaca, as Sicily is said to have been to Italy, Ancient Geographers call’d it Trapobana, the Modern Sumatra. The Ancients also call’d it, the Golden Chersonesus, and the most curious Searchers into Antiquity, Ophir, whence Solomon gather’d that vast Mass of Treasure. According to the Portugueses it is 80 Leagues in Length, and 30 in Breadth. (Here seems to be some Mistake in the Author, for the Island is well known to be above 80 Leagues in Length.) Italian Writers say it is 2100 in Circumference. The Dutch, who have traded and made War there, do not contradict it, and all agree it is the largest in all the East, and the most fruitful we know of. It lies thwarting from North to South, in the Torrid Zone, and the Equinoctial Line cuts it in the Middle; so that one Part falls to the Northern Hemisphere, and takes up five Degrees, and the other to the Southern, extending seven Degrees. This Island is, according to some, divided into four Kingdoms; others say ten, and some 29; but we know of eight, which are, Pedir, Pacem, Achem, Camper, Menancabo, wealthy in Gold Mines, and Zaude; and up the Inland the other two of Andragide, and Auru, the Natives whereof are Idolaters and Man-Eaters. They devour, not only Strangers, but their own Brothers, and Fathers. In short, among these barbarous People, Hunger produces the same Effects as Passion. The King of Achem is the most Powerful of them, and they all pay Homage to the Nayque stirs up Princes to revolt. Crown of Portugal. Nayque enter’d the Court of Achem, attended by his own Men, and follow’d by the Multitude of Chinese, Japonese, Malay, Persian, and Turkish Merchants; all of them flattering themselves with the Expectation of new Commotions. He first worshipp’d the King in a Temple, where there were monstrous Idols, notwithstanding that the People are Mahometans. He had afterwards private Conferences with him at Court, and in a few Days brought him over to his Party, with his Wealth, as if he had been a poor Man. After delivering his Master’s Letters, he told him, that before he went over into Europe, whether he was sent to discover the Power of Spain in its Origin, or Source, at a Time when it was distracted by such Revolutions, it was convenient that most wealthy Part of Asia should be restor’d to its former Condition, a Matter of no Difficulty, if they were firmly united among themselves. That none were so able to overthrow the Neighbouring Monarchy, which from Malaca had, as it were, fetter’d so many Provinces, as the Kings of Sumatra, if they, considering of what Moment it was to them, would stand by one another. That since he had successfully besieg’d that hateful City, assaulted its Walls, and Forts, and valu’d himself on being an Enemy to the Portugueses, he ought not to let slip so favourable an Opportunity, which offer’d him compleat Victory. That he should remember the several Expeditions of the Viceroys against Sumatra, and that they always breed up Adelantados, or Lords-Lieutenants, with their Soldiers in Pay against those Kingdoms. And that since, till then they had not been able to make him uneasy, it was too much Forbearance to suffer a perpetual The King of Achem complies. Threat of Thraldom to subsist so near him. The King of Achem, listen’d to him with Satisfaction, as one, who, with all his Nation, hates the Haughtiness of the Portuguese Behaviour; yet he neither promis’d, nor perform’d any more than obstructing the Trade of Malaca, till he had reduc’d it to Want. Nor did he keep the Secret, for they had soon an Account at Malaca and Goa of these Contrivances. He farther promis’d; That whensoever the King of Ternate should make a greater Invasion, or go about to extend, or enlarge himself, as far as he pretended he had a right, he would continue to give the Diversion, as far as stood with his Conveniency, and that he should have the Liberty of his Ports, and all Supplies for his Ships in his Kingdom. Nayque return’d Thanks, and extended his Negociation, endeavouring to bring in the other Tyrants of Sumatra, as for the Publick Good. Then sailing away through the Streight of Sunda, so call’d from the Name of a City in the furthest Part of the Province, beyond the Line; he proceeded to the greater Java, no less Fertile than the other in the same Medicinal, and Odoriferous Growth, at the Time when Thomas Candish, an English Commander was arriv’d there, coming from the North-Sea, by the Way of New Spain.

Nayque went up the Country to visit, and found him in a populous City, where he was loading Pepper, which is excellent in Java, with that King’s Leave, he being a Friend to the English, who had already settled a Factory. Candish in Java presented by Nayque. He found him on the Banks of a River of such a Nature, that it presently converts any Wood whatsoever cast into it into Stone, as solid and hard as our Pebbles. He bore the Englishman Company to the Port of Sunda Calapa, viewed his Ship, and made as much of him as he could. Among other Things he presented him a Pavillion, artificially wove all with sweet scented Cloves, and not black, which was not only fit to keep out the excessive Cold of England, but even to dry up over moist Bodies that slept under it. There is daily Experience of its atractive Virtue at Ternate, by placing great Vessels full of Water in the middle of the Rooms where the Cloves Clove atracts Water, as does China Silk. are kept, and in the Morning they find the Heaps of Cloves damp, and the Vessels empty and dry. The same Essential Heat is in the Skeins of China Silk, which therefore those who deal in it keep at a small Distance from the Water, yet they suck it, without touching, and by this Fraud they weigh the heavier. Captain John Lopez de Ribera carry’d such a Pavillion of Cloves, as is above mention’d, and presented it to the Earl of Coruna, who was then Viceroy. Nayque, like a Flash of Lightning which burns all that stands in its way, endeavour’d to stir up those who before were kept peaceable by the Valour of Fernan Tellez, and to encourage the Turbulent, but without staying to see the effect of his Negociation, he made directly towards the Cape of Good-Hope, yet it is more likely, and even positive, that he went first to Malaca, and thence in the India Ships to Spain.

Whilst Nayque was at Sea, the Marques de Santa Cruz had in the Ocean fought the Fleet Commanded by Philip Strozzi, in which was Antony the Bastard, Pretender to the Crown of Portugal, and destroy’d it, Antony the Bastard Defeated. Chastizing the French, who with real, or counterfeit Commissions from their King, had oppos’d King Philip’s just Possession. He arrived victorious at the Island of S. Michael, cut off the Heads of the French Gentlemen, and condemn’d the Rest to the Galleys. Strozzi dy’d of his Wounds, and Don Antonio escap’d in a Boat, and return’d to Zealand, to solicite fresh Succours in England and France. In the mean while, the King of Achem perform’d his Promise. His Kingdom lies next the first Promontory of the Kingdom of Achem. Island, in four Degrees and a half of North Latitude, and consequently his Ships easily made themselves Masters of all the Streight between Sumatra and Achem, which they so entirely possess’d, that they suffer’d none of the Ships to pass to Malaca, which brought Merchandize and Provisions from China, Japan, Camboxa, nor even from the Moluccos, obliging them to Coast about several Islands, to the great Loss of the Merchants. But the Portuguese Dealers in the City of Pedir, eight Leagues from Achem, sustain’d much greater Dammage. Most of them fled to Malaca, and tho’ Fernan Tellez was then upon his Departure, he gave the necessary Orders at Goa for their Relief. He sunk some of the Enemies Ships, and took one loaded with Daggers, they call Crizes, made at Menancabo, and a numerous Artillery, a Thing well known, and cast in Sumatra, many Years before the Europeans brought them into those Parts. This appears by the Victory the Portugueses obtain’d over that Nation, during the Blockade of Malaca.

The King of Achem sending a Daughter to be Married to the King of Zor, not far from Malaca, in the Country of Siam, among other rich Gifts, Monstrous Piece of Cannon. by way of Portion, presented him a Brass Cannon of such a bigness, that the like had never been seen in Europe. This prodigious Gun, and the Princess that was to be Queen of Zor, fell into the Hands of the Portugueses. The taking of this Prize, and some others, clear’d the Sea of that Fleet; and that extraordinary piece of Cannon, which serv’d to Ballast a Ship, was brought as a Present to the King of Spain, for its Monstrous Size, but a Storm oblig’d them to leave it in the Island Tercera, where it is now seen and admir’d. The City Zor was also Taken by the Portugueses, and in it they found 1500 pieces of Cannon, Artificially Cast, with curious Figures and Flowers of Rais’d-Work on them. The Molucco Embassador Molucco Embassador at Lisbon. being come to Lisbon, obtain’d Audience of the King; who, tho’ he was fully inform’d of the Embassadors Falshood, and the Practices of his Nation, yet gave him a favourable Hearing, after he had shew’d his Credentials to the Ministers of State. He in a long Speech recounted, from its Original, the constant Fidelity or the Molucco Kings, and how particularly Remarkable it had been in Sultan Aerio, and that the wicked Commander His Speech. in Chief in putting him to Death, had equally wrong’d the Crown of Portugal. That since the Murderer was not punish’d, to satisfy the dead Man’s Children and Kingdoms, it might well be concluded, that so Cruel and Undeserv’d an Execution had been by the Direction of some higher Power than the Governor Mesquita, and that even in case the Crime had been Notorious it had been more Prudence to charge it upon some private Person. That King Cachil Babu intreated his Majesty to punish the Offender in such manner as might give Satisfaction, and be an Example and Security to all the Asiatick Kings, that own the Dominion of Spain. In Return for that Favour, and Justice, he promised to Restore the Fort of Ternate, and his other Kingdoms, which were Alienated, and that they would return to their former Subjection, as they had promis’d to the Governor Pereyra de la Cerda; so remarkably correct their Behaviour, that there should be visible Effects of a Royal, and Humble Gratitude, both in respect to his Majesties service, and the security of the Garrisons, and to the Advantage of the neighbouring Provinces, belonging to other Kings, who were his Subjects, about Malaca, the Philippine Islands, and Parts Adjacent. He also ingaged to Restore the Churches, and Christian Religion, and much more than had been agreed upon with Pereyra. The King having heard his Request, as if he were ignorant that the Ternates did not deserve the satisfaction they requir’d, since they had taken it themselves so fully, that it exceeded even the bounds and examples of Revenge, he Answer’d, That The King’s Answer. all the Accessaries to that Fact should be found out, it being prov’d that the Principal was already Dead, and none of them should escape Unpunish’d, as would have been done by King Sebastian, had he Liv’d. That Cachil Babu must prepare to Restore all Things into the same Posture they were in before, if he intended to partake of the general Amnesty, which blotted out all past Offences throughout the Dominions of that Crown. Nayque had some private Audiences, and some Ministers of State had Conferences with him, with a Design to find out how the People of India were dispos’d.

At this same Time Don Gonzalo Ronquillo, pursuant to the Orders he Ensign Duenas from Philippines to the Moluccos.had receiv’d from Spain, sent the Ensign, Francis de Duenas, from the Philippine Islands, where he was Governor, to the Moluccos, to pry into the Inclinations of the Kings, and People, Governors, and other Portugueses at Ternate, Tydore, and Bachian, as to submitting to the King of Spain. He set out in the Habit of a Chinese, and was much assisted by his Knowledge of those Countries, and their Languages, and much more by his bold Spirit, sufficiently try’d in those Wars. He artfully Learnt what Hopes there might be of the Recovery of Ternate, and how firm the People of Tydore stood. He first inquired what Leagues were carrying on in the Archipelago, what Intelligence they had with, and expected from the Northern Fleets, with whom they had now familiar Correspondence. He Travell’d about the Islands, like a Sangley, or Chinese, in the Janguas, or Trading The Intelligence he got. Vessels of the Malay, and Philippine Merchants, and had the Opportunity of viewing them all, so far as to take the Dimensions of strong Places, compute what Stores and Ammunition the Barbarians had, and discover the Humours and Inclinations of the Portugueses who Traded, or Govern’d there; and returning to the Philippine Islands, his Account, and Relation, first Encourag’d and gave Hopes that more Advantagious Enterprizes might be undertaken in those Parts, than about Malaca, tho’ it were but only Supporting the Portugueses and Tydores, then hard press’d by the King of Ternate. King Philip receiv’d this Intelligence at Lisbon, whence the Molucco Embassador was then gone, ill satisfy’d with the Answer he had; but Sultan Babu, on whom the Word of so great a Monarch, and the Authority of his Promise might perhaps have had great Effect, dy’d long before the said Embassador could come to his Presence. Sultan Babu Dies. The small Remains of Christianity still left in his Kingdom, took a little Heart, and had our Arms but appear’d upon the Revolution caus’d by his Death, the only Noise of them might have gain’d the Victory. It is Reported that furious King Babu dy’d by the excess of his Love, or rather of his inordinate Lust, in the Arms of one of his Mistresses. Some say she kill’d him with Charms, or Poison, which is the Tyrant-Slayer among those Nations, impatient of one Mans long Rule. He was Succeeded by his Brother, who was Illegitimate, as we are told by Cachil Tulo, in the Letter, which, as we shall see hereafter, he writ to the Governor of the Philippine Islands. The new King took the Name of Cachil Sultan Nait Dini Baraca Sultan Nait succeds. Xa, before whom Cachil Madraca ought to have been preferr’d, as being Son to the principal Queen. As soon as Enthron’d he offer’d Peace to his Neighbours; on this Security, and that of a clear Conscience, Cachil Gava, King of Tydore, paid him a visit. He was received with publick Rejoycings in one of the greatest Squares of Ternate, and attended to a mighty lofty Arbour, provided to offer Sacrifize in, a (Chappel suitable to the Priesthood) and there to decide Controversies, and give Audience to his Subjects. When the first Complements were over, and the King of Tydore Murders the King of Tydore. least suspected any thing, the Ternate Guards, hearing the Signal given by their K. drew their Campilanes, or Cymiters, and without allowing the Guest time to cry out, fell upon, and cut him into Pieces; tho’ he was the Man thro’ whose Means the K. of Ternate had the Crown given him, contrary to the Opinion, and Designs of his Unkles. But whensoever great Returns are due to a Favour receiv’d, Ungrateful Souls convert the Obligation into Hatred, and nothing can occur to them more odious than the Sight of the Benefactor. Next he turn’d his Fury against that murder’d Princes Family, and such of his Servants as could not make their Escape to Tydore, were either Kill’d, or remain’d Prisoners at Ternate, or absconded wheresoever Fortune, and their own Confusion lead them. This cruel Fact, which some assign’d to his Father, Cachil Babu, Reconcil’d the Murderer and his Unkles. But he immediately acquainted them, how he expected to be Invaded on two Sides; that it was of the utmost Consequence, that Subjects should own their Sovereign, and fortify his Islands, especially all the upper Parts; and that since he had such Powerful Unkles, it was Reasonable, and Convenient, the People should be acquainted how firmly they were United to their Nephew. Then extolling their Valour, he with the sweetness of their Commendations so blinded and amused them, that they could not perceive the profound Jealousie he shrouded under them. Thus he divided them, that they might attend the Fortifications in distant Places; whilst New King of Tydore. he in Person carry’d on the War against the Tydores. They presently set up a Brother of their late King in his Stead; who, tho’ he govern’d with Bravery, and stuck close to the Portugueses, yet had some strong Places taken from him by the King of Ternate, which were afterwards restor’d, in our Kings Name, by Don Pedro de Acuna to the King now reigning. This Prince lived but a short Time, yet so long that Cachil Mole, who was a Child when the King his Father was murder’d, grew up, and in him the Revenge of the Injury receiv’d. He never thought, or talk’d of any other Thing, till he brought it to Execution.

In the mean while the new King of Tydore, assisted by the Spaniards he had in his Forts, provided to oppose, and attack his Enemy. They all expected Succours from India, where it was certain they must think it necessary to support Tydore, in order to recover Ternate. Their Behaviour was so brave, as to defend themselves, tho’ ill furnish’d with Arms and Provisions against those who attack’d them with Plenty of all Things. Hector Brito was come with a Galleon from India to their Assistance, and He is taken by him of Ternate. it being known at Tydore that a Storm had oblig’d him to stay on the farther Coast of Borneo, the King fitted out four Carcoas, and went to meet him, but was forced back to his Island by contrary Winds. He of Ternate watch’d to improve all Opportunities against his Enemy, and therefore would not let this Slip, nor trust to any other; but Man’d out nine Carcoas, and going in Person fell upon him. The Tydores wanted not Courage to defend themselves, and the Fight began with that Fury, which always arms those two Nations against one another; but tho’ the Tydore fought desperately, he was taken, and his Men either kill’d, or dangerously wounded. This Misfortune griev’d the Portugueses no less than the Indians, because they all lov’d him. For this reason they gather’d the Remains of that Disaster, and all the other Forces they could make, offering their Service to Cachil Aleazen, Brother to the Captive King, a very hopeful Youth. Fidelity of the Tydores. He thank’d them, and was so dexterous in gaining the Affections, and confirming the Fidelity of the Subjects, that through his Care, no Man was wanting to his Duty. This Industry was of good Use, for the Conqueror did not return immediately to Ternate; but went about to his Enemies Islands, perswading the People in each of them to take an Oath of Allegiance to him, showing them their Captive King, whose Life was at his disposal; but the Tydore Towns, being furnish’d with all Necessaries, and believing they might with Safety practice that Hatred and Rage Nature has fill’d them with, would not give Ear to his Proposals, though they were mix’d with Intreaties, and Threats, and on the contrary dismiss’d him with their usual Fierceness. He perceiving that the Ostentation of his Victory, and the Sight of the Captive King availed him but little, Sail’d away for Ternate. At his Arrival, he was received with Trumpets, Kettle-Drums, and Basons they beat on, and with Songs they make for such like Occasions. The Heads and Limbs of the Tydores slain in Battel, were fix’d Cruelties of Ternates. upon the Spears they have advanc’d in the Carcoas on the Poops and Prows, and other high Places of them, and particularly the Kings. This is their way of erecting Trophies. Of the Skulls they make Cups to drink out of; like the Scithians, who, according to Herodotus, practice the same; or like the Germans, as Tacitus tells us, of the Heads of the Uri they slew, and that was a Token of Nobility. He would not trust the keeping of the King in any of his Forts; but turn’d a strong House into a Goal, and appointed him a Guard of Gilolo Islanders, well arm’d. Sometimes he show’d Severity, and otherwhiles Tenderness; but all Men knowing his Disposition, expected the End of the Captive King; tho’ at the same time they believ’d, he would mitigate his Revenge out of Respect to his Sister, the Princess of Tydore. Hector Brito, Commander of a Galeon, Hector Brito at Tydore. came now to Tydore; but his Arrival did not much mend the Posture of Affairs, tho’ those in the Fort were Encourag’d to hold out, and at least, he added some Reputation to the Cause, and inclin’d the Ternates to listen to some Overtures. However what could not be compass’d by force of Arms nor Treaty, was effected by the Resolution of an Amorous Soul.

The Princess Quisayra, Sister to King Gapabaguna, that was the Prisoner’s Remarkable Story of the Captive King’s Liberty. Name, had so great an Opinion of herself, as to hope that her Beauty would prevail to bring about that good End, which was then of Consequence to all Parties, on several Accounts. She knew she was belov’d by the King of Bachian, by him of Sian, a brave Youth, by him of Ternate her Enemy, and by other prime Sangiacks of his Kingdom, and his Kinsmen, who all publickly vy’d in doing her Honour. She was discreet enough dexterously to feed them all with such Hopes, as lay no Obligation on the Party that gives them, and yet encourage those who value them. She gave out that she would marry none but the Man that Contrivance of Quisayra, Princess of Tydore. should set her Brother at Liberty, and deliver him to her alive, or dead. This Part of the Declaration, tended to the Promoting of her Design. The Promise work’d upon all her Admirers; tho’ it was most certain, that her naming herself as a Reward of the Enterprize, proceeded from the Affection she bore Ruy Diaz d’ Acunha, a Portuguese Gentleman, and Commander in Chief of the Fort of Tydore. She thought he would attempt the Rescuing of the King, and that such Success would entitle her She is in Love with the Portuguse Commander. to marry him, tho’ many suspected there was already a mutual Obligation, as well as Desire, and that they were reciprocally in Love. It was known, that they had discours’d together several Times in the House of Quinchana, a great Lady, Aunt to Quisayra, whether Ruy Diaz was wont to go frequently; and that with her Interposition the Matter had been so far concerted, that the Princess promis’d she would embrace Christianity to marry him. This made not his Rivals dismay, and the King of Ternate, upon these profer’d Hopes, offer’d to give her Brother his Liberty. However he was not regarded, because Quisayra was as averse to be beholding to him, as she was desirous to be oblig’d by Ruy Diaz. This powerful Passion informs barbarous Minds. Her Disdain caus’d the King of Tydore to be more close confin’d, and his Body to be loaded with heavy Chains, being more narrowly observ’d than before.

Cachil Salama a Lover of Quisagra, his Bravery. Cachil Salama, a Subject and near Kinsman of his, well known for his Valour in the Wars, was more deep in Love with Quisayra than all the Rest, and listen’d to all the Reports of their endeavouring to comply with her Expectation. He entirely keeping his own Council, a Thing rare in Lovers, to be secret without Affectation, that no Notice might be taken of him, one Night fitted out a Baroto, so they call a Sort of small Boat, putting into it five Tydore Soldiers, he could confide in. Thus he cross’d over the Channel to the Leeward, and landed on Ternate; where he left the Boat ready, but hid on the Shore. Then Cachil Salama, conceal’d among the Croud of trading People in the City, went to the chief Part they call Limathas, and set Fire to a House in that Ward he thought stood most convenient for his Purpose. The Flame, which had taken hold of the Roof gathering Strength, threatned a greater Conflagration. Having done this Mischief, whilst the People flock’d together, and endeavour’d to put a Stop to it with Water, and other means, Cachil return’d to his Boat, on the Inside the Ridge of Rocks there is about the Island, and went away to the other Side of the Fort, where he began to beat an Alarm, to cause the greater Confusion. This done he went ashore again, with only his Campilan, or Cimiter, ordering three of his Men to follow him at some small Distance. He found the King’s Prison almost abandon’d, the Guards being gone to help at the House that was a Fire. He went in boldly, breaking open Doors, and Bolts, till he came to the Prisoners Chamber, He rescues the King of Tydore. who scarce believing what he saw, ask’d him, with much Amazement, how he came thither, and whether the Fort of Tydore was lost? Cachil answer’d, he must be quick, and go along with him, and should afterwards be satisfy’d as to his Questions; for if he refus’d he would strike off his Head. Then laying hold of the end of the Chain, and the other three Tydores being now come up to them, they forc’d their Passage out of the House, making way with their Swords and killing such as offer’d to oppose them. The same Valour and good Fortune carry’d them through the Streets, to the Port, and leaping into their little Boat, put all their Hands to the Oars. In those Islands it is usual for Kings to row, without being compell’d to it by Necessity; for as in Spain the Nobility learn to ride, so the Island Princes in all those Eastern Parts value themselves upon handling the Oars, and Sails. They cross’d over the Streight, and being pursu’d too late, by the light Vessels of Ternate, arriv’d unexpected at Tydore. The Fame of his arrival was soon spread abroad, and when certainly known, the Cannon was fir’d, the flat Drums in the Temples were beaten, and the Bells rung, the Sound whereof uses to draw the People of the Moluccos together, and in short there was a general Rejoycing, without quitting their Arms. All Men cry’d up Cachil Salama to the Skies, calling him the Deliverer of Tydore, and Neza Maluco, Neza signifies a Spear, and Maluco a Kingdom, and both together the Spear, that is, the Defence of the Kingdom.

Only Quisayra was troubled at this Event, because the general Promise Quisayra contrives to murder Cachil Salama. she had made of marrying, whosoever perform’d it, was only design’d for Ruy Diaz de Acunha. She was not able to conceal this Truth; especially when Cachil Salama boldly press’d the Performance of the Promise, the King himself seconding him. She delay’d him, alledging some specious Pretences to gain Time. She would willingly have made her Complaint to Ruy Diaz himself, either to shame, or provoke him to Passion. She easily compass’d to meet him at her Aunts, where, as soon as she began to Discourse, there was nothing but Tears, Complaints, Excuses, and Contrivances to murder Salama, to conclude a Reconciliation. Rocque Pinheyro the Commander’s Nephew, and a Soldier of reputed Valour, was present at this Discourse. Quisayra trusting him with her secret Thoughts, he Pinheyro undertakes to murder him and his own Unkle. boldly, and with Art, gave her to understand that his Unkle was as slack as before; and since he had been so in the other Affair, what could be expected from him in what he now promis’d. He said, if she could prevail upon her self to be sensible of the Ingratitude of Ruy Diaz, and to substitute him in his Place, he would not only murder Cachil, but his own Unkle too. That out of the Respect due to her high Qualities, he had not till then presum’d to let her know how deeply he was in Love with her Beauty; but that he now thought himself absolv’d from all human Tyes, and wholly confin’d by that. Pinheyro had a full hearing, an Advantage not far remote from being admitted; and tho’ he was not commanded to murder his Unkle, yet he perceiv’d he had not left him so well in the Princesses Esteem as he was before.

In the mean while, Cachil Salama was not idle, pressing the Business hastily, Salama convey’d into Quisayra’s Bed Chamber. and having got some Inkling, or suspecting the Cause of the Delay, like a true Lover who is seldom deceiv’d in this Sort of Jealousy, he found out the Truth. By the Contrivance of one of Quisayra’s Women, he durst presume to hide himself in her Bedchamber; and in the dead of the Night, he suddenly appear’d before her, his Fiercness being overcome by a Superior Power. The Princess was surpriz’d, but dissembled it, and prepar’d to defend herself in Case Violence were offer’d. She threatned to cry out; utter’d Complaints with Tears, and bewail’d the loss of her Reputation, saying, how could they think her Innocent, who saw him either come in, or go out. Salama all the while in humble Posture, and on his Knees, assur’d her he had no other Design, than to put her in Mind of the Obligation she lay under, and that since it was known he was to be her Husband, his being seen was of no Consequence. That her Reputation suffer’d more, by the delaying of the marriage; and that to convince her of his Affection, he would be gone as obediently as he had always done. He went He gains her Affection. out immediately, comforted with Thanks, and Hopes; and deliver’d her from the Fear she had conceiv’d of him. She was so taken with this Courteous Action, that resolving it in her Mind, it wrought so much, as to settle her Affection on Salama; so that she would have marry’d him, tho’ he had not oblig’d her before.

At this time Pinheyro, who was already engaged in her Love, either to obtain its Reward, or because his Unkle did not Favour him as he expected, Pinheyro murders his Unkle, and is kill’d by Salama. or for both Reasons, contriv’d his Death. As he was going one Day to the Palace, to acquaint Quisayra that the Murder was already committed, Cachil happened than to come from a Fort to see his Mistress. He seeing Pinheyro coming out of her Apartment, drew his Campilan, or Cymiter, and tho’ the Youth fought Manfully, and like a Lover, yet Cachil, who had the same Qualifications, and was Jealous over and above, at the first onset clove his Head, so furiously, that he dropt down dead of the Wound. Then proceeding as he had begun, he went in where Quisayra was, whom He marries Quisayra. he easily perswaded to be gon with him, and leaving the Palace full of Confusion, they Imbark’d in the Baroto, or small Boat that brought him. They Marry’d with the good liking of the King and Kingdome, and the Loss of those two Gentlemen’s Lives. And since among the Portuguese Nation, as much Account is made of Honour gain’d, or lost in Love Affairs, as was formerly of Victories obtain’d in Greece, at the Olympick Games, the Vindication of these Lovers shall be left to the Management of those who are well skil’d in that Matter, to whom we refer our selves.

The Portugueses were much griev’d at this Disaster, as being Publick, and the King was so incens’d, that one of them having accidentally kill’d A Portuguese hang’d. a Horse he had a great Value for, he caus’d him to be Hang’d, without hearkning to any thing that could be said for him. This gain’d Cachil Mole so generally the Affections of all Men, that tho’ Cachil Cota was Elder, and Son to the principal Queen, by them call’d Putriz, under colour that the latter was a Friend to the King of Ternate, and about to contract Affinity with him, the other gain’d the greater Party, which advanc’d him to Succeed in the Throne of Tydore, as we shall soon see.

The Portuguese Galeons arrived at Malaca, and in them Cachil Naique returning from Spain, and having stay’d there some Months for the Monsons, Nayque returns to Ternate. he had a good Voyage, and arrived safe at Ternate, when he had by the way sollicited the Javaneses, and the People of Achem and Borneo, not to admit of the Spanish Domination. He brought no acceptable Answer from King Philip, and found the King who had employ’d him Dead, and in his Place another, so different from the Former, that he entertain’d no Thoughts of restoring the Forts to the Portugueses, but on the contrary, aim’d at casting off all Obedience, and obliterating their Name. To this effect he Confederated with the English, who, with other Northern English at Ternate. Nations, Lorded it in the Island. Five Leagues from it lay at Anchor an English Ship, waiting for two others that came out with her. They Anchor’d in the Port, and went ashore, as if they had been in London, being well receiv’d by the Sultan, with whose Leave they settled a Factory in the City, where they left Officers, who under the name of Trade, were more absolute Masters of it than the Natives. They dispers’d to gather in the Clove for the Goods they brought to Barter; and on the 21st. of August dispatch’d their Ships, loaded with that Spice, and with those Nuts they call of Molucco, and excellent Preserves of them both. In these Ships went Embassadors to Queen Elizabeth, and to the Prince of Orange, carrying Presents suitable to those Persons, of the most valuable Things in India. They were order’d to offer the Queen his Kingdome in Vassalage, and his Friendship to the Prince of Orange. The Advantage of these Embassies afterwards appear’d; yet he did not on that Account give any hopes of Restoring Christianity; for besides that the Persecution grew more violent, he had at that time brought over into his Kingdome, a great number of Arabian and Persian false Prophets, all of them Mahomet’s Priests and Ministers, Mahometan Preachers at Ternate. to strengthen that Sect. Besides, being inform’d by his Spies, That it was given out in the Philippine Islands, That they would make War on him that way, and that in Spain the King promis’d the Union of the two Crowns should produce the Conjunction of their Power and Arms, for the punishing of disobedient Tyrants, he slighted no Alliance, nor contemn’d the Weakest Enemy. For this Reason, he gave Entertainment, and allow’d the planting of Colonies to Europeans, and Leagued with Idolaters and Mahometans, who hate Spain, as their common Enemy. The English Ships now frequented India, facilitating the Passage, and shewing an Example to the French and Dutch, which encourag’d them all to venture out far from their Countries, and seek for Treasure in strange ones.

Sultan Capabaguna did not long enjoy his Liberty at Tydore. He was King of Ternate dies. taken ill at an Entertainment. Some believe he had a slow Poison given him; because he was very moderate in Eating, and those motions of his Arms, the gnashing of his Teeth, and losing of his Senses, which attend the Falling-Sickness, and are Simptoms of Apoplexies, could not naturally proceed from his Temperate way of Living; but are always caused by much Excess, which Occasions this violent Distemper. He came to himself after that first Fit, but his Vigour wasted, and he linger’d on to the end of his Life. Cachil Cotta should have Succeeded him, but they were suspicious of his Correspondence with the Ternates; and they all so openly favour’d his Brother Cachil Mole, that there was not the least Difficulty made about the Succession. He often remember’d his Fathers unfortunate Death, and in Regard that this raging Desire of Revenge, might prove instrumental for the Recovery of Ternates; as soon as his Unkle Dy’d, which was on the 24th of April 1599, the Portuguese Commander in Chief, Ruy Gonzalez de Sequeyrao repair’d to his Palace, and by Means of the Portuguese Cachil Mole King of Tydore. Power and Arms, caused Cachil Mole to be sworn King, as being a most faithful Friend to his Nation, and no less an Enemy to the Ternates. He immediatly dispatch’d Captain Palma with this News to Manila, and with it an Account of the Molucco Islands, of their Neighbours, and of their Preparations; because they were then providing in the Philippine Islands for this War, to extirpate this Receptacle of Sects, where all sorts of Apostasies are admitted, and particularly the vile Doctrines of Mahomet. Ever since the Year 1555, when the Dutch enter’d those Seas, they have not, till this Time, ceas’d bringing in Sectaries, and Captains of Pyrates: These Men carry away the Wealth of Asia, and in Lieu of it leave behind them that false Doctrine, which renders the Conversion of so many Souls Fruitless.

The Forgetfulness, or Contempt the Governours of India show’d for Moluccos slighted at Goa. the Molucco Islands, seem’d fatal; since they refus’d, or with-held the usual Succours, abandoning the Commanders, and Forts, for so many Years, as if they had not been in the World. This was not remedy’d by the Union of the Crowns of Spain and Portugal; on the contrary, the great Success of the Adelantado, or Lord Lieutenant Legaspe, in the Islands Luzones, which he call’d Philippines, being known in Spain, King Philip the IId. thought fit as we shall soon see, that the Molucco Islands, and Parts adjacent, whither he was Zealous to send Evangelical Preachers, should be sensible of the Advantage of his Neighbouring Empire. This was Relief order’d from the Philippines, and why. speedily order’d, and tho’ the Effects were not sutable, by Reason of the many Accidents great Undertakings are liable to, yet Time has shown how convenient it was to fix that Resolution. For the better understanding of the Reasons on which it was grounded; since one of them proceeded from the various Disposition, Qualities, and Interests of the Nations throughout those Seas and Lands; it will be absolutely necessary in this Place to make them known, before we come to Particulars.

Description of China. The Country of the Sinæ, whom we call Chineses, is the uttermost of the Continent of Asia. On the East and South it is encompass’d by the Ocean, which the Ancients call’d Sericus. On the West, it reaches to the Borders of the farther India; and on the North to those of the Massagetes and Scythians. Their Ancient Annals, Writings and Traditions informs us, that the Chineses extended their Empire much further. This is verify’d by the Remains of sumptuous Structures; and not only in Ruins, wherein their former Magnificence is still apparent, but even in Cities, which Time has preserv’d, tho’ not inhabited, and yet to be seen in the Provinces they have excluded their Limits. There are many which take there Denomination, and own their Original from China. For that immense Empire finding it self labouring under its own Power, and overburden’d with its Magnitude, like a judicious Patient, to prevent more Harm, it breath’d the Veins, and brought down the Redundancy of the Body. The same we read the Carthagenians did, when in the like Condition, and for the same Reasons. It confin’d it self to a narrower Compass, proportionable to the Extent of humane Providence, that so their Prince’s Light might reach to shine over, and be communicated to them; which cannot be, when the Circumference is too great for the Darting of the Beams. They publish’d indispensable Decrees against such as go out Chineses contract their Empire. of China, without leave from the Magistrates. They abandon’d vast Provinces, which being left expos’d to Tyranny, and Infidelity, after tedious Wars, submitted to the most Potent. Hence the Kings of India took their Original, being oblig’d never to lay down their Arms, nor keep any Faith, so to support themselves one against another, till a greater Power subdues them.

15 Kingdoms in China. In China they reckon 15 maritime Kingdoms, or Provinces of an extraordinary Extent, with each its Metropolis, or Capital; the rest are up the Inland. The most part of it lies within temperate Climates, and receives into its pure and open Bosome the Sun’s vital Rays, having a healthful, and serene pleasant air. This favourable Disposition renders it so fruitful, Fertility, Air, Populousness. that it yearly yields two or three crops. The great Industry of the Tillers, is a considerable Addition to its Fertility. The Number of them is infinite, being a People that daily multiply exceedingly, because they are forbid going into foreign Countries. Neither is any among such a numerous Multitude of Men allow’d to live idle. Idleness is not only exposed Idleness punish’d. to private Contempt, and the Scoffs of Neighbours, but punish’d by publick Custome and Law. Thus the Peasants leave not the least Spot of Ground untill’d. The Hills and deep Bottoms produce Vines and Pine-Trees; the Plains, Rice, Barley, Wheat, and other common Grain. Tho’ they do not press the Grapes for the Wine, as we do, yet they keep them Product, Tea. to eat; and of the Herb call’d Chia, they make a wholesome hot Liquor. This they drink, as do the Japoneses, and it preserves them from Colds, Head-Aches, Rheums in the Eyes, and makes them live long and healthy. Some Parts of the Country want Olive-Trees, but they are not destitute of other Plants, which yield a Liquor to anoint them. There is a perpetual Abundance of Pasture, Fruits, Flowers, and all Products of Gardens. Rivers, Ports, &c. There are many Navigable Rivers, carrying Ships of great Burden, and full of excellent Fish; the Banks cover’d with perpetual Greens, spacious Harbours, and a Trade in them of all Things necessary for humane Life. The Fowl are of various colour’d Feathers, and pleasant and nourishing to eat; great Numbers of large Deer; vast Lakes, Woods and Mountains, and Mines of Gold, Silver, Iron, and other Metals; besides Pearls and precious Stones. Its Purcelane, or Earthen Ware, is not to be imitated in the World; and it affords rich Furs against the Cold, Silks, Wooll, Cotton, and Flax; nor is there any End of its Sugar, Honey, Amber, Vermilion, and Lake. Musk, whereof no mention is found among Greek and Latin Authors, is more plentiful in China than in other Parts.

The People are most passionately addicted to Delight, and Lasciviousness. The People. They alone always sell all Things; they buy nothing that Nature or Art affords, either for Sustenance, or Cloathing, except some Perfumes for their Cloaths, and Pepper out of India; nor would there be any Place for Foreign Trade, did not an insatiable Avarice of Gold and Silver predominate among the Chineses. What they draw out of the Bowels of the Mines, they conceal as carefully as if it were still in them; and even that they bring from remote Provinces, they heap up, and bury. Their publick and private Structures would make up a Narration of extraordinary Length. We are told of 200 Cities of an extraordinary Magnitude, Cities. and many more of inferior Degree, besides Towns, Castles, and Villages, containing above 3000 Families each, built of Bricks made of the same Clay as our Purcelane, or China Ware, and these encompass’d with continu’d Woods, Springs and Rivers. In all these there are Towers with stately Pinnacles, Pleasure-Houses, and Temples, tho’ hideously painted, yet costly, with Variety of deform’d Images, through which the Devils give their Answers. But these are not in all Parts, for many of them know no God, nor Religion. Life, they say, was from Eternity common to, and alike in all living Creatures. That at first Men drank Barbarous Opinions. humane Blood, and eat raw Meat. That afterwards the Use of Reason provided for Necessity, and Pleasure; inventing the Ways of dressing, and seasoning Meat at the Fire, in Vessels and other Utensils. The same, they say, happen’d in Regard to Man’s Nakedness. So that Man is indebted to himself alone for what he enjoys, and therefore whosoever lay’d on him the Burden of Religion, and the owning of a Cause Superior to Nature, only aim’d at the dejecting him, and exercising a Tyranny over his Liberty. With these impious Notions, and destructive Atheism, they oppose their Eternal Salvation, which our Arms, and our Preachers invite them to. They only regard Generation; but not without Distinction. Lawful Matrimony entitles Women to be Mistresses of their Families. The Matrons Chastity. value themselves upon being highly Chast. Concubines are kept in Houses apart. They do not want for Plays, and such Representations; and they delight in seeing their Traditions, whether true or fabulous, acted on the Stage. They use Entertainments, and have Tables and Chairs of Ebony, and other precious Materials; as also Shipping, Shows, Carts, Horse-Litters, and the Exercise of Arms, and Riding.

Customs, and Manners. It were no difficult Matter to give an Account here of their private Customs and Manners, were they to our Purpose. Something shall be said of the Publick and Political, for the better Understanding of some Things that happen’d in the Philippine Islands, from whence the Recovery of the Moluccos, in our Times, had its Beginning. They call their great Government. Men Loyties, from among whom the King chuses his Judges and Counsellors. There is almost an infinite Number of inferiour Magistrates, who exercise the Regal Power and Authority, even in the most inconsiderable Cases. In every Town there are five, that have the greatest Power, and these are Strangers in the Place, that they may be free from Partiality. Tutan a Viceroy. The Head of them all, is call’d Tutan, being the same as a Viceroy in Poncasio. Europe. The next in Dignity is the Poncasio, who has Charge of the King’s Taxes, and Royal Treasure, with a great Number of Clerks, and other Ancasio. Officers; and he pays all Salaries and Pensions. Next follows the Ancasio, Aitan. who is chief Justice, in Criminal Cases of Consequence. The Aitan has the Inspection of all Martial Affairs, he musters the Armies, builds the Ships, and his principal Duty is to observe the Guards, that no Stranger Luitisio. may pass into the Inland Country. The Luitisio is next to the Aitan in Dignity, and is to be expert in War, in which he is employ’d by the Aitan. I know there are other Magistrates, and their Names and Dignities, which I must pass over in Silence. All of them except the Luitisio, keep great State. There are ten chosen Persons of the Council, tho’ not equal in Authority. Five of them sit on the Right, the others on the Left. The King often thrusts in among the Judges and Parties in Disguize, to pry into the Causes, and their Decisions, and be certainly inform’d of both. When he thinks fit, he sometimes makes himself known; and the Moment he discovers himself, they all stand Mute, full of Respect and Astonishment, listening to what he shall command. Then he commends or reproves either Party, and rewards, or punishes before he Mandarines. departs the Court. His Mandarines, and Prime Ministers are so highly respected, that no Man dares look them in the Face, and they always look so Stern, that it would be thought a great Disorder to lose the least of their Gravity, tho’ it were but with a modest Smile. This they observe, when they pass thro’ the Streets, in Sight of the People. The greatest Honour among them is to wear a Cymiter with a gold Pommel, and a yellow Hat.

When the President of the Council Dies, the eldest Judge succeeds him. Judges. These go Circuits thro’ the Provinces, and reform Abuses, and all of them wear the King’s Badge on their Shoulders, and Breasts, being a Golden Dragon wove in the Cloth. When they go these Progresses, they save, or lessen the Charge by circumscribing the State. When first elected, at their taking Possession of their Posts, they generally go out attended by Troops of Horse and Foot, with all Sorts of Musick, and Splendour. Their Pomp appears in the Hanging, and other Ornaments of the Streets and Houses. All the expence of Law Suits, Courts, and other Perquisites is allow’d out of the King’s Exchequer. The Mandarines are Governors, and Viceroys. In China there are no Dukes, Marquesses, or Earls, nor do they own any Dignity, but what is deriv’d from the King’s Authority. Though in the Parts next to Scythia, or Tartary, some People are Mahometans; yet in all Religion. others they are either Idolaters, or look upon the Notion of a God as a meer Jest. They believe the Life and Death of Men and Beasts are alike. There is nothing they are more attentive to, than the obstructing of any foreign Religion, and this under the politick Pretence, that they are jealous of Innovation. But above all they oppose the true Religion, hating that they know nothing of; and are as much afraid of it, as if its Ministers went arm’d to preach it, and with the Noise of Drums, and Trumpets, and regular Armies. They are frighted at a few bare-foot, and almost naked Men who profess Poverty, and preach up Morality, and supernatural Virtues, grounded on Humility and Peace. They have such an Aversion for them, that were it proper to our Subject, or were there not printed Relations thereof already, we would recount several Instances, to show their unreasonable Hatred. Hence may be inferr’d, how much more Need of the special Grace of Heaven these Nations stand in, with those in the Neighbourhood, which are expos’d to the Infection and Danger of their Obstinacy. The Reader ought also to consider, that tho sometimes, the Avarice, and other Crimes of our Commanders, and Soldiers interfere with the Preaching of the Gospel, yet their Offences do not lessen the Iustice of the Cause. He is also to reflect, that, allowing his Majesty, for weighty Reasons of State should, as we have said was propos’d, resolve to abandon those Parts of Asia, as the Chineses did, and circumscribe the Compass of his Monarchy; yet the Cause of Religion would not permit it. Our Kings are its Ministers, and Sons of the Catholick Church, and any War made for the Propagation of the Gospel, is of the greatest Consequence, and highly gainful, tho’ it be to acquire, or recover desert Provinces. Besides that the Philippine Islands have shown us how tractable their Natives are, and how much they improve with the Example, and Society of the Spaniards, and how affectionately they have imbrac’d the Faith, and assist the Religious Men, who dilate, and carry it over into China, Japan, Camboxa, Mindanao, the Moluccos, and other Islands, where still Idolatry continues, or the Friendship with the Devils left them by their antient Masters, when they excluded them their Dominions, or else the Mahometan Fictions, which they have since imbrac’d.

This is the Principal End of keeping those Provinces; and the Revenues and Wealth which is consum’d upon them, and several others, are laid out upon the Forces, and Preparations Spain makes for the Preaching and Security of the Ministers of the Church. Besides, that as Times have alter’d, Rumours of Chinese Invasions. so they have often in China chang’d their Opinion, and show’d they repented their having diminish’d their Empire. No Year passes over with out Threats of Chinese Armies; of their Listing Men; of building Ships; of their solemn consecrating, or dedicating them to their carv’d Gods, or to the Sun, Moon, and Stars, which are ador’d in some Parts, begging Success in their vain Prayers against the Spaniards, who are possess’d of those Countries they abandon’d, thro’ their own Indiscretion. This short Account of the Chineses, or Sangleys, is here inserted, for the better understanding of those Actions we shall soon treat of. They not only oppose the Truth; but tho’ they are wholly addicted to their Interest, and Slaves to Gain, and tho’ it be so absolutely requisite for the attaining of those Ends through their Industry and Trade, to maintain Amity with their Neighbours, yet there is nothing less to be reliy’d on than their Faith, or to give it a more proper Name, their Dissimulation. Happy those People, if when China withdrew its Dominion, it had also with drawn the Errors of its Worship.

The End of the Fourth Book.

THE
HISTORY
OF THE
Discovery and Conquest
OF THE
Molucco and Philippine Islands, &c.

BOOK V.

The Islands Luzones, or Manilas, which are both of them antient Names, having been discover’d by Magellan; after his Death, and various Accidents befallen his Companions, Sebastian Sebastian Cano the first that sail’d round the World. Cano return’d to Spain in that renowned Ship, call’d the Victory, as it were to express her Voyage, which is not so likely as true. Sebastian Cano, was born in the Town of Guetaria, on the Pyrenean Mountains, as we are told by Massæus, in his Latin History, where he extols Cano’s mighty Resolution, and skill in the Art of Navigation. He tell us with what Respect and Admiration all Men look’d on him, as the first that went round this Globe, which is the Habitation of Mortals. And in Truth what value shall we henceforward put upon the Fabulous Argonauts, Tiphys, Jason, and all other Sailers, so much celebrated by the Greek Eloquence, or Vanity, if compar’d with our Cano? He was the first Witness of the Communication of the two Seas, to whom Nature disclos’d what she had till then reserv’d for his Discovery, suffering herself to be entirely lay’d open, as a Beginning of such Bold Enterprizes of that Law which serves, and renders us Immortal.

Islands Lusones call’d Philippines. Magellan being dead, the islands Lusones, which ought to have inherited his Name for being his Place of Burial, as the Streight did for his discovering and passing it, in the year 1565, chang’d theirs for that of Philippines, tho’ those of that Eastern Archipelago bear the same. The Adelantado, or Lord Lieutenant Michael de Legaspe, sent from New-Spain, by the Viceroy Don Lewis de Velasco, with a Spanish Fleet arriv’d at these Islands. He first conquer’d that of Zebu, and its Neighbours, where he spent six Legaspe the first Conqueror. Years. These Islands, as there are several Names given to divers of those Parts, are call’d Pintados, because then the Indians went naked, and their Bodies wrought and painted of several Colours. He left a Garrison there, Luzon Island subdu’d. and went over to possess himself of Luzon, 150 Leagues from Zebu. He fought the Barbarians, who after the first Surprize, caus’d by our Arms, Ships, and Countenances, differing from theirs, was over, were encourag’d by that very Novelty. Legaspe ran into a Bay, four Leagues over at the Mouth, where is an Island now call’d Marivelez. The Bay runs thirty Leagues up to the City Manila, and is eight Leagues over, lying North-West, and South-East. The Inhabitants of this City oppos’d him with more Bravery than the Pintados; because they had Cannon, and a Fort, but as soon as they saw that taken by the Spaniards, they submitted. This was done so expeditiously that the Country had not time to come in; and thus he enter’d Manila, a Place strong by Nature. At a Point of it, which is shut in by the Waters of the Bay, a considerable River empties it self, which rises in the Great Lake call’d Vay, five Leagues Distant. This Point which at first is narrow and sharp, presently widens, because the Sea-coast runs away to the South South-East, and the River West, leaving a most Manila City. spacious Spot for the City, which is all encompass’d with Water, except that part which lyes to the South-West. Legaspe then built it of Wood, whereof there is great plenty in those parts. The Roofs he cover’d, or Thatch’d with the Leaves of Nipa, which is like our Sedge, or Sword-Grass, and a sufficient Fence against the Rains; but a Combustible Matter, and the occasion of Great Conflagrations, which have often hapned.

Luzon Island describ’d. Luzon is more Populous than any of the other Islands, which in Honour of King Philip the Second, were call’d Philippines, and which some affirm are in Number 11000. The Compass of Luzon is 350 Leagues. It runs without the Bay 100 Leagues to the Northward, as far as New Segovia; and from where this Province commences, which is at Cape Bojador, and 70 Leagues from it, turns to the Eastward, to the Promontory del Enganno; from thence along the Coast to the South, 80 Leagues; then turning again to that they call Embocadero, or the Mouth, being the Streight against the Island Tandaya, 40 Leagues, and this is 80 from the Bay. So that it bears the shape of a Square, and in it several Bays, and few good Harbours. It lyes in 160 Degrees Longitude, reckoned from the Canaries, the Southermost Part in 14 Degrees of North Latitude, and the Northermost in 19. On that Side of it lyes China, separated from it by the Sea 60 Leagues over; and the Islands of Japan, 250 Leagues distant. On the East is the Vast Ocean; on the South is the greatest of all the Archipelagos, divided into five, and those again rent into so many Islands, Kingdoms, and Provinces, as if Nature had resolv’d that Man should never determine their Number. The most known are the two Javas, our Moluccos, Borneo, and New Guinea. On the West of Luzon, at 300 Leagues, and greater Distances, lye Malaca, Siam, Patan, Camboxa, Cochin-china, and several other Provinces on the Continent of Asia. The Chineses forsook their Habitations in our Philippine Islands, but not the Trade. Neither did the Worship they had introduc’d cease, nor their Fertility. Product, and Trade. They produce plenty of Corn, and other necessary Grain; Deer, Cows, Buffaloes, Goats, and Wild Boars; Fruit, and Sweets; and if any be wanting the Chincheo Chineses bring it, as they do Porcelane, and Silks. The Wine they use, and always drank, is drawn from the Palm, or rather Coco Trees, cutting off the Clusters of the Fruit they produce, when Green, and taking off the Nipples of them, they gather the Water that runs from them, and Boil it in Jars, till it becomes so strong, that it makes Men drunk, in the same manner as the strongest Spanish Wine. Of its Natural Growth, the Island has Oranges, Lemmons, and most delicious Citrons; of Spanish Fruit, Figs, and Pears. There are Numerous Breeds of Sparrow-Hawks, Birds. Birds like small Herons, and Eagles, besides sundry Sorts of Parrots, and other large and small Fowl. In the Rivers and Lakes there are many Monstrous Crocodils, or Alligators. These easily kill the Indians, Alligators. and especially Boys, who happen unadvisedly to come where they are, and the Cattle that goes into the Water to drink. It often happens, they lay hold of their Snouts, or Noses, and draw them under Water, where they are drown’d, without being able to defend themselves; then they drag the Carcass to the Shore, and devour it. An Alligator being kill’d a whole Buffaloes Head has been found some times in the Belly, and yet in that Country they are as big as the largest Ox in Spain. The Alligators lay Eggs as the Tortoises do, about the bigness of Goose-Eggs, and so hard that they will scarce break, tho’ struck against a Stone with main Force. They are Hatch’d by burying in the Sand, near the edge of the Water; the moisture whereof, with the Heat of the Sun forms the young Ones. There are some Indians so brave, that as fierce as these Creatures How the Indians fight the Alligators. are, they kill them with their Hands. They arm the left up to the Arm with a Glove of Buffalo’s Hide. They hold in it a Stick, or small Stake, somewhat above a Foot long, and as thick as a Man’s Wrist, and sharpned at both Ends, with which they go into the Water up to the Waste: The Crocodile makes up to the Indian, gaping to swallow him, and he holding out his Arm that is arm’d, and the Hand with the Stake in it, for the Monster to bite at, claps it across his Mouth, so that he cannot shut it, or make use of his Teeth to hurt him. The Alligator feeling the hurt of the sharp pointed Stick, is so dismayed that he neither makes resistance, nor offends, nor dares so much as move, because the least strugling gauls him. Then the Indian holding fast the Stake, with a Ponyard he has in his other Hand, Wounds the Creature so often about the Gills, till it bleeds to Death. Then he drags it ashore with Ropes and Noozes, many Indians joyning to draw, and there is need of many, considering the Bulk of those Crocodiles. They are shap’d like Lizards, but arm’d with such strong Shells, that a Musket-shot makes little Impression on them, and they are scarce to be hurt, but only about the Gills, and under their short Legs, where Nature has plac’d a sort of sweet Odour, which the Indians make their Advantage of. These Islands, besides the Cattel, produce all that is found in Africk, as Tygers, Lions, Bears, Foxes, Monkeys, Beasts. Apes, Squirrels, and some of them Abundance of Civet-Cats, which are much Hunted, in order to be sent into several Countries, with other Commodities of China; Callicoes, Silks, Porcelane, Iron, Copper, Steel, Commodities. Quicksilver, and many more Yearly Transported from those Countries. The Religion and Government is now the same as in Spain; but in those which are not yet subdu’d, they follow an Extravagant Idolatry; believing the Soul Immortal, but wandering from one Body to another, according to that ridiculous Transmigration invented or published by Pythagoras. They are much addicted to Trade, and forwarded in it by the Commerce with China. The Philippine People are braver than their Neighbours; the Spaniards and their Breed do not degenerate from their Original.

An Army was now forming of all these Sorts of People, by Order of the King, to attempt recovering the Forts of the Moluccos. Don Ronquillo de Pennalosa was then Governour there; and tho’ he had receiv’d some Intelligence Ronquillo’s Preparations for the Moluccos. brought him thence by Spies and Traders, yet not satisfy’d with it, he sent thither another Soldier. He disguised himself, and being like the Natives in Countenance, and speaking their Language to Perfection, got to Tydore. He found our People very earnest to forward that Enterprize, and that King ready to support it with all his Power. Thence he pass’d over to Ternate, among Merchants, where he view’d the Forts, the Shoals of the Harbours; observ’d their Correspondence with the English, and took notice how they Landed, and Traded in all Safety, or rather with Authority. Nor was he unacquainted with the Numbers of conceal’d Christians, who would take up Arms when a seasonable Opportunity was offer’d, or any other Particular, which belong’d to a Judicious Spy to enquire into. Hereupon Ronquillo gather’d about 300 Spaniards, and above 1500 Natives The Forces sent under Sarmiento. of the Philippines, with Ammunition, Provisions, and Seamen, and at the proper Season sent them for the Moluccos in three Great Ships, and a considerable Number of Small Ones. Peter Sarmiento, a brave and experienc’d Officer, still living in those Islands, when this was writ, went as General. He had Courage, and Force to destroy any of the Enemies that then frequented those Seas. His Majesty had some time before bestow’d the Government of Ternate, if it were Conquer’d, on Paul de Lima; and Paul de Lima rich in the Moluccos. allow’d his Brother Francis de Lima to make two Voyages to the Moluccos, in Consideration of their Services, and those of Henry their Father. Paul was Marry’d to a Christian, and devout Lady, tho’ a Kinswoman to the King of Ternate, who was not so. For this Reason, and because he had been possess’d in Ternate, of the ancient Inheritance of the Villages of Guita, Mofaquia, Mofaguita, Pavate, Pelveri, Sansuma, Takane, Mayloa, and Soma; and in the Island of Machian of Sabele, Talapao, Talatoa, Mofabonana, Tabaloga, Tagono, Bobaba, and Molapa; and in Regard the King of Ternate, had expell’d him most of them, as also of Bitua in Tydore, and several other Places, he went over to Manila, as a Banish’d Man, where he confer’d with the Governour, about the means of facilitating the Conquest, just before it was put in Execution. His Advice was of use, and he gave it, as one so nearly concern’d; for besides the Inheritance the King of Ternate wrongfully with-held from him, he hop’d to recover the Island of Moutil, which belong’d to his Forefathers. The Enterprize was farther Authoriz’d by the Presence of Don John Ronquillo, Don John Ronquillo joyn’d with Sarmiento. the Governour’s Nephew, who had equal Power with Sarmiento, both by Sea and Land. If any thing was wanting, they thought the Defect would easily be supply’d by the Valour of the Soldiers, the Celerity of the Passage, and the Enemies Surprize; but the divided Command was an Obstacle to their Hopes.

The Weather prov’d not very cross, yet neither was it so favourable, as that they could come directly to anchor at Ternate, as would have been most convenient to deceive the Watchfulness of the Enemy. They arriv’d at Moutil, and fought a Parcel of Janguas in Sight of Land; which Spaniards arrive at and take Moutil. were taken, and the Christians in them set at Liberty. Paul de Lima being well acquainted with the Bays, and there being no sufficient Force in the Island to withstand a Fleet, it easily submitted, when attack’d in several Parts. The Natives came out with Palm, Citron, and Clove-Tree Branches, in Token of Peace, and to beg Pardon. Both were granted, and Paul de Lima appointed their Lord, tho’ his New Dominion turn’d to little Account, for within a few Days, all the People slipp’d away, either because they thought themselves safer at Ternate, or to meet the Enemy, who of Necessity must carry the War over into that Island, as it happen’d. Here Sarmiento refitted the Ships, and being over-joy’d with this Success, Sarmiento in Ternate. obtain’d without the Loss of one Man, arriv’d at Talangame, passing amidst the Enemies Carcoas, which they had fitted out in a Hurry. The King expected him long before in the Fort, well furnish’d with our Cannon, particularly the Bastion they had enlarg’d, and call’d Cachil Tulo, from the King’s Uncle, who made it, and these Preparations seem’d to threaten any Disaster. Our Men landed on that Side, and were oppos’d by the Ternates; but Night put an End to the Fight, and both Parties retiring to their Fastnesses, our Cannon was landed, and planted in the Place, and after such Manner as Paul de Lima directed, and ever since he commanded it in the Fort of Tydore. The King of this Island was willing to joyn our Camp, as had appear’d by some of his Actions, and his Promises to the Ensign Duennas; but he mistrusted the Fortune of the Spaniards, as if he King of Tydore dubious. had not had sufficient Experience of it. The Opportunity and Fidelity now invited him, and yet he forbore; his Doubtfulness is thought to have been prejudicial to the Success. Sarmiento having planted his Cannon, intrench’d himself, and taking some Prisoners, of whom he learn’d what Provisions and Amunition the Besieged had, began to press on, and batter them furiously; yet they were not discourag’d, but answer’d boldly. It was found convenient to possess the upper Grounds, which over-looking the Place, tho’ they have been since levell’d, our Men much incommoded the Enemy, and had they continu’d it, that would have put an End to the War. However there was so much Sickness in the Camp, that no Remedy Fort of Ternate batter’d. was found against it, but going off so to save themselves for a more favourable Season. The Succours which came as Duties from Tydore, were very inconsiderable; the Allies were cold, and all Things weak; what other Causes there were Heaven knows. It is likely there were some of The Siege raised. more Moment, for in short the Army broke up, and reimbark’d for Manila, without doing any thing but adding to the Enemies Resolution.

At that Time, only the English Nation disturb’d the Spanish Sovereignty in those Eastern Parts; for this Reason, King Philip was desirous, not only for the present to curb them by Force of Arms, but to make them an Example to all other Nations, that they might not spread themselves abroad to attempt such Invasions, as we are Eye-Witnesses to. This Work was undertaken in the Year 1588, but first happen’d what we are now to State of Affairs in Europe. relate. Queen Elizabeth of England, after a tedious Imprisonment, beheaded Mary Stuart, Queen of Scotland, for some Politick Reasons, or Fictions. The then King of Scotland, and since of England also, Son to the Martyr, arm’d his People, strengthen’d his Garrisons, and invaded the Dominions of the Enemy, who had caus’d him to be Motherless; and more particularly the Marches about the River Tweed, and those of Anandale, water’d by the River Solway. The Queen call’d Home the Earl of Leicester, who was in Holland, appointed him General, and War broke out in all those Northern Provinces, with apprehensions of greater to ensue. Queen Elizabeth’s Practices. After many Events, which do not belong to this Place, Queen Elizabeth strengthned her Alliance with the Dutch, encouraging those Provinces to persist in their Disobedience to the Church, and to King Philip, and advising them, since the King had forbid them trading in all the Rest of his Dominions, to go over into India, there to raise Commotions, and rob him of the Spice. The more safely to compass her Designs, she supported the Flemmings Obstinacy, flattering herself with the Hopes of a new Monarchy, for the acquiring whereof, she propos’d to make use of the Wealth yearly brought from the North and South Seas, for Spain, the Robbing of which had already made an Addition to her Power; as also of the Factories erected for Trade in the Moluccos, Banda, Sumatra, Ceylon, and the two Javas; where she kept Garrisons, in order to convert the Friendship into Sovereignty.

King Philip, whose great Soul ever entertain’d both Forbearance, and King Philip’s mighty Fleet. Counsel, resolv’d to cut off the Heads of this Hydra at the Neck they all sprung from. He gather’d, for the Conquest of England, the mightiest Fleet that has been seen on the Ocean in our Days. Twenty Thousand fighting Men were put aboard tall Ships, besides 9000 Sailors, with 1730 Pieces of Cannon, Abundance of Ammunition, and Pikes and Fire-Arms for the Catholicks, who it was hop’d, as soon as they saw the Spanish Colours, would joyn our Army. Don Alonso Perez de Guzman, Duke of And Army against England. Medina Sidonia commanded in Chief, and was to joyn the Prince of Parma, then Governour of Flanders, who had Commission to raise another Army of 30000 Horse and Foot, with the Necessary Provisions and Ammunition, which he was to transport at a fit Season to that Point of England, where the Thames falls into the Sea, to march thence to London, and there Arm the Catholicks. But it was first requisite to beat the English at Sea, where they were then powerful, and well acquainted with the proper Times to sail and keep at Home. At the least they were to be terrify’d, that they might not dare to obstruct the Passage of the Troops, the Prince of Parma had in readiness at Dunkirk and Newport, or hinder their embarking, when the Spanish Fleet should come thither to waft them over. This Fleet sail’d from Lisbon on the 19th of May, 1588, and as soon as out They suffer by Storms. suffer’d much by the Weather, so that three Gallies were cast away, on the Coast of Bayonne. Abundance of the powder blew up; and the General was oblig’d to return to Corunna, to refit; whence he could not get out till the 2d of July.

Being come into 48 Degrees of Latitude, he sent away Don Lewis de Guzman to give Advice to the Prince of Parma, and on the last of the same Arrive at the Lizard. Month arriv’d himself at the Lizard, in Cornwall, where he lay by, and was certainly inform’d, that all the Enemy’s Ships, being fifty in number, lay in Plymouth. The English Admiral at Break of Day discover’d ours, Spanish Shiptaker. and tho’ he wanted neither Strength, nor Experience in Sea Affairs, he resolved to draw off and avoid ingaging, but his Ships being lighter incommoded us in the Rear. In the Catholick Fleet, a great Ship of Guipuscoa blew up, and another of Andaluzia spent her Main-Mast, in which Distress, two English Ships attacking her, and those afterwards seconded by others, in one of which Sir Francis Drake was, they took her. There Don Pedro de Valdes, a Spanish Commander of known Valour, and then Lieutenant General, was made Prisoner, with whom they sent to Plymouth, a great Quantity of Crown Pieces, and fifty Great Guns. About 400 Spaniards were kill’d, and taken. On the 2d and 4th of August, the Lord Howard, and Drake joyn’d their Squadrons, some write they had an hundred Sail, all well Mann’d, and light, with which they infested ours, which were heavy, and encumber’d, particularly the Portuguese Galleon, call’d the S. John, being the greatest in the Fleet, and in it were John Martinez de Recalde, the Count de Paredes, the Marques de la Favara, and other Commanders of Note. However they got to the Isle of Wight, whence the Duke sent away two Messengers to the Prince of Parma, who was then at Brussels, desiring he would furnish him with Powder and Ball, for the Defence of the Fleet, and imbark what Troops he had ready. But he, either prevented by invincible Obstacles, or for other Reasons, which have left that Princes Reputation Disappointment of the Fleet. expos’d to Censures, mov’d so slowly, that what had been so maturely concerted took no Effect. The Enemy boasting, that the Sea and Winds had fought against us, in Vindication, as they said of their Cause, made publick Rejoycings, firing their Cannon; and soon after the Queen put forth a Proclamation to the same Effect, against which a certain English Religious Man writ learnedly, by the Name of Andrew Philopator.

The Dutch who were in Confederacy with Queen Elizabeth, seeing this Success, were encourag’d to aspire to greater Matters, renouncing their Religion, and their Sovereign, attempting to usurp the Treasures of the East, The Dutch aspire. Mines, Spice, Drugs, and Silks, as appears by their bold Voyages, wherein they have endeavour’d to follow the fresh Examples of the English, and the ancient set them by Columbus, Albuquerque, Magellan, Gama, and Cortes, as we shall see hereafter. But, both they and the English, if they try the Justice of their Cause by the Success of that Fleet, must be oblig’d to prefer the Cause of the Gentiles, when God for his Secret Judgments permitted his own chosen People to be over-thrown. Destruction is more glorious than Prosperity; and a religious Soul will rather chuse to be cast down than Victorious, if an angry God is to give it the Victory.

After this Santiago de Vera govern’d the Philippine Islands, and by special Order, arm’d against Ternate, where the English from that Time traded Another Expedition from the Philippines. with all possible Security. All Nations had settled Factories except the Javaneses and Lascarines. Above 2500 Mahometans from Mecca preach’d their Abominations. They fear’d nothing from Portugal, all their Apprehension was from the Spaniards, who were newly ingag’d to seek Revenge. The King of Ternate well knew that Sarmiento and Ronquillo would have taken it, had not Diseases prevented them. When the News of fresh Preparations came to Tydore, it was carry’d over by Spies to Ternate. That King presently call’d together his Subjects, especially the Islanders of Machian and Homer, who came in 40 Carcoas, because their Islands were very populous. The Number had been greater, but that the King of Ternate prepares. King would not suffer more to be fitted out than he demanded, for he could not conceal his Fear that they would rebel, those Parts being full of Christians, and the Taxes he laid on the People intolerable. Santiago de Vera appointed John Morones General, who wanted not for Conduct, nor his Men for Valour, nor the Fleet for Cannon and Ammunition. But whether Natural Ambition, or any other Accident was the Occasion of it, there were such Divisions among them, that they had sufficient Grounds to mistrust the Event, before they left Manila. They set sail with fair Weather, and pass’d the greatest Dangers of the Sea, and when they thought themselves safest, all the Elements seem’d to conspire against the Fleet. They lost the Light, and their Reckning, the Vessels were shatter’d, and the greatest of Spanish Fleet loses a great Galleon. them sunk, and all the Men lost. This was the Galleon S. Hellen, which carry’d the Guns to batter the Fort, and many other Necessaries and Stores. For all this, they insisted upon proceeding, and the King of Bachian assisted them with what Forces he had rais’d, under Colour of clearing the Sea of some Enemies; and being a Christian baptiz’d, lamented his departing from our holy Faith, on Account of Persecution, and promis’d the Restitution of his Soul.

Spanish General refuses the best Advice. The Weather growing calm, when they were in Sight of Ternate, the Carcoas durst not stand them, but fled at the first Discharges, which they can do without receiving any Damage. Therefore the two Kings, and Paul de Lima, advis’d to fall on in several Places. Ferdinand Boto Machado, Captain of a Galleon, was of the same Opinion; but the General suspecting the former, on Account of his Affinity, and the latter for the Friendship he had lately contracted with the King of Tydore, whom he was not well satisfy’d with, would not follow their Advice; alledging, That it was not convenient, by dividing the Forces, to weaken them more than the Storm Besieges the Fort of Ternate. had done. He laid Siege to the Fort, but the Besieged being acquainted with the Condition of our Troops, oppos’d all their Assaults courageously, and scoff’d and laugh’d at the insignificant Batteries. However our Men, whom the Storms had depriv’d of Necessaries for that Work, vented their Spleen upon the Javanese. These valu’d themselves upon sallying out to Skirmish, being distinguishable by their Arms, and manner of drawing up. The Spaniards handled them so roughly, that they did little more during the War. Some Months were spent in Fruitless Attempts, and if they had attack’d the Country, but a Culverine-Shot short of the Fort, at the Bay of Limathao, and march’d thence to attack the Fort behind, as the most understanding desir’d, it had been of good Consequence. But the General Morones, putting all upon Experience without Forecast, was satisfy’d with fronting next the Sea, doing much Harm, which was caus’d by that first, and obstinate manner of attacking; and that gave Way for Succours to go into the Natives, at other landing Places, tho’ thirty Men at a small Distance might have prevented it. This both the Kings maintain’d, whose Valour, which ought to be commended even in Enemies, if our General had pleas’d, might have given Success to this Undertaking. Besides that experience has shown that fifty Spaniards have done as much upon Occasion, as whole Roman Legions well arm’d and disciplin’d.

Morones now perceiving that neither his Arms, nor his Proposals had Sends some Men to the other Fort. any effect upon the Rebels, he resolv’d to pass over some of his Men against the other Fort, which, tho’ seated on a Ground of difficult Access, seem’d to be pregnable, because built in Haste, a League from the former on a steep Hill. On the Land Side of it is the Mountain, and on the Back a Lake, and is of no use, because it does not defend the City, which is open, and is Javanese Ships burnt. only regarded for being near the old Fort. Our Men went on chearfully, and the Defendants receiv’d them as well firing their Cannon, which gave a Check to the Spanish Fury. Those in the other Fort, tho’ they made little use of Fire-Arms, being compell’d by Necessity, ventur’d to sally out to the Shore. To draw them to this Resolution, some of our Men on a sudden set Fire to the Junks, in which a great Number of Javanese Indians had come thither. The Vessels, which were old blaz’d up, without any Obstruction from those who guarded them, but they referr’d the Remedy to their Weapons. They were in all about 3000 fighting Men, 1000 of them had Muskets, whereof 200 were expert at them; the rest neither Pikes, nor Lances, nor any other long sort of Arms, but only those they call Toranas, about a Fathom in Length, like Darts, and some like Arrows, which they cast by main Strength, with Canes and Strings, wherewith they unexpectedly wound unarm’d Men in Fight; because they fly not out of a Bow, but are thrown strait forward, or over their Heads. Others had only their Campilanes, or Cymiters, and Shields. Many of them fought the more obstinately, confiding in their Coats of Mail, and Head-Pieces, bought of the Portugueses; but as soon as they clos’d with our Men, they broke their Order, and lost Courage. This Accident prov’d a very great Obstacle, because it diverted our Men from their double Design of pressing both Forts at the same Time, so that the very Commanders were forc’d to ingage. Morones knew how to behave himself upon all Occasions, and the Spaniards made such a Slaughter, that almost all the Javaneses lay upon Bloody Victory gain’d by the Spaniards. the Spot. Those in the Forts had not the Courage to fall in upon the Rear, tho’ they pour’d a Volley upon the Forces of Tydore and Bachian, but with little Harm. This Victory was not gain’d without Effusion of Blood, yet they took Heart to hope for one more compleat, at the Arrival of the Galeon from India, and believ’d that Addition of Strength would make amends for what they lost in the Storm.

The Galeon arriv’d at Tydore, better provided to carry on the Trade, than the War. For this Reason, and because many of our Men were Sick, or Wounded, Morones was oblig’d to raise the Siege, and dismiss those Kings, The Siege rais’d. to whom he afterwards sent Presents of Spanish Commodities, some Horses and Silks. It was since known that tho’ the Ternates will endure much Hardship, they were then so near press’d, that Hunger must have subdu’d them, could our Men have stay’d a little longer. They embark’d in Sight of the Enemy, who presently appear’d in the Field rejoycing, with Musick, and other Tokens of Victory. The Asiatick Traders resorted to their Ports, and others from Europe, but particularly their new Friends the English, with whom they communicated the Joy of their Success.

They never made a good use of Peace and Quietness at Ternate, as soon as Notable Practices. that was now restor’d, the King was again at Variance with his Unkles; which Fortune so improv’d as to furnish an Opportunity that might have been advantageous to our Designs, had not she thwarted it. Cachil Mandraxa was the noblest of Sultan Aerio’s Sons, as born of the Queen they call Putriz, which is the Chief. His Father would have had him succeed in the Throne, but was disgusted at a Boldness which does not use to be mislik’d among Politicians. Cachil Mandraxa was desperately in love with Filola, his Niece, Daughter to the King his Brother; and that Princes did not refuse her Unkles Courtship. The Father one Day found them talking together, in the Apartment reserv’d only for himself; and tho’ he was satisfied their Conversation was within the Bounds of Decency, took such an Aversion, that he depriv’d him of the Succession. The illegitimate Nephew Reign’d, against the Will of all the Unkles, who were near conspiring Subtilty of the King of Ternate. to kill him; but the subtle King knew how to disappoint their Designs, and secure himself without discovering the Contrivance. He call’d Cachil Mandraxa to him, and repeating all past Distates, told him, how desirous he was to remove all manner of Jealousies by a perfect Reconciliation, which he thought might be done by means of the Princess Filola, and since there was such a good Correspondence between them, all the Rest would be easie. However before he gave her to him to Wife, he must reflect that she was promis’d to the King of Tydore, to whom he was not willing to administer fresh Causes of War, or to be the Occasion of interrupting that short Tranquility they enjoy’d. That since all they discours’d there would remain in their Breasts, he would have him to take his Advice. Mandraxa was beside himself, with that unexpected Satisfaction, and yet had he been truly Master of himself, he might easily have seen thro’ the Fraud of that pleasing His crafty Words. Change in his Condition, wherein he found the King so much his Friend, who but just before had been his Enemy. He thank’d him for the Favour, and putting his whole Dependance on the Words of his Mouth, desir’d he would give him the Advice he spoke of. The King answer’d, I have contriv’d a Way, which will satisfie you, and the King of Tydore will have no Cause to complain. For the attaining of both these Ends, I will keep Council, as is requisite, and do you any Night steal away the Princess, the Way you shall best like, so it be with Regard to my Reputation, and in all Respects giving such outward Tokens, that all Men may believe it was open Violence, and no Contrivance, or at least known to me, I, on my Side, will pretend to be very Angry, and will complain of the Injury as loudly as is requisite to satisfie the World of my Innocence. For why should I, Unkle, wish for the Felicities of this World, but to make them common to our Family? I will retain the Cares of the Crown, and do you enjoy the Satisfaction the Kingdom affords. Mandraxa could not forbear Weeping for Joy, he fell down at his Nephew’s Feet and kiss’d them, without disguizing any thing of his Passion, yet suppressing the Joy of his new Hopes, the best he could, he found Means to acquaint the Princess, and to appoint the Hour, Place, and Confidents for exposing herself to be stolen away.

To this Purpose they pitch’d upon a Garden, which looks out upon the Sea, adorn’d with its Natural Trees, whence the Ships are seen, and among them, on the Day prefix’d they spy’d a Carcoa, with all the Men that Row’d curiously dress’d and they and the Soldiers wearing Garlands, plainly show’d the Design of their Voyage, tho’ they row’d without the Musick they use to have at other Times. Mandraxa and a small but brave Number of his Friends landed as silently, and they after the manner of Talasio, and the Cachal Mandraxa steals the Princess Filola. ancient Romans, when they forc’d away the Sabine Women, laid Hold of Filola and the Rest, and run them aboard with all possible Speed, conveying them to a strong Place in the Island, where having fortify’d himself, like a Soldier, Mandraxa devote himself to Love. Fame the utter Enemy to Secrecy divulg’d the Fact, and convey’d it over to the King of Tydore’s Ears, with the King of Ternate’s Complaints. He magnify’d the Affront, and every Man spoke of it, according to his own Notion. The King who had contriv’d it, and by whose Breath all the Machines of that Tragedy were mov’d assembled the prime Men of his Kingdom, most of them Enemies to the deluded Mandraxa, and ask’d their Assistance and Advice in so notorious a Base falsehood of the King. Violence, and pretending extraordinary Concern. They all Voted to a Man, that it was absolutely necessary to make such an Example as might deter others from the like. When the Consultation was over, the King dispatch’d Messengers to his Unkle, intreating him to repair to Court to stop ill Mouths by fair Means, and appease the Neighbouring Princes. Cachil Mandraxa made no difficulty to obey, as well knowing that none of his Actions had been contrary to the King’s Orders. Only the Princess advis’d the Contrary; for tho’ young, as little above 20 years of Age, she was better acquainted with her Brother, and well knew he never kept his Faith, particularly with his own Family, and that he could not have any Kindness for them as being jealous of the Crown. Mandraxa made no Account of all that, but went to Court, and enter’d the Palace attended by his Family, and relying on the King’s Promise, but more especially on the secret Mystery of that Affair, known only to them two, Unkle and Nephew. When he came to kiss the King’s Hand, he looking as stern as if he had not advis’d the stealing of the Princess, said he knew not what Course to take upon so notorious an Affront offer’d to his Crown and Palace, but to cut off his Head. Mandraxa thinking at first that had been all Counterfeit, and according to what had been agreed between them, when he perceiv’d He murders Mandraxa. it was barefac’d falsehood, would have spoke loud in Defence of his Innocence; but was not permitted, and the King making a Sign to a Sturdy Black he had prepar’d for that Action, he drew his Cymiter, and hew’d him down barbarously. The poor Prince fell, without being reliev’d by any Man; for at that Time his Brothers Cachil Tulo, and Cachil Sufur were not at Ternate, the former being Governor, the latter Admiral. Nor did they come to Ternate in a long Time after, tho’ they look Care to protect the Widow Princess, who was left with Child, and afterwards brought forth Cachil Amida, who dy’d Young.

The whole Truth of this Matter was soon known, with all its Particulars, and Circumstances; and the Cachiles conferring together, Tulo resolv’d to go over to the Service of King Philip, to which Purpose, when The King’s Unkles conspire against him. Duarte Pereyra was Commander in Chief at Tydore, he went thither to treat with him, and with Antony de Matos, who went first for the same End to Bachian; but forasmuch as what was concerted among them, will better appear by the Letter Cachil Tulo sent from Tydore to the Governour Santiago de Vera, we will here insert it, translated From the Malaye Language, by the King’s Naguatatos, so they there call the Interpreters.

Cachil Tulo’s letter to the Governor of the Philipines. Cachil Babu, my Brother, late King of Ternate, writ to the King of Portugal, to desire he would do him Justice, upon a Man, who murder’d his Father and mine; upon receiving which Satisfaction, he would again deliver the Fort of Ternate to his Majesty, it being then out of his Possession, His present Majesty succeeding in the Throne of Portugal, answer’d my Brother’s Letter, by Cachil Naique, his Embassador; but when he return’d my Brother was dead, which was the Reason we did not then deliver up the Fort, because a Bastard Son had succeeded him, being proclaim’d King by the People of Ternate, with the Assistance of the King of Tydore, tho’ he had no Right to it. He would not perform what his Father had promis’d, and he was oblig’d to; nor follow the Advice given him by me, and by my Brother Cachil Mandraxa, the rightful Heir of the Crown; which was that he should deliver up the Fort, as his Father had promis’d, to the Portuguese; and this, not because he could not defend himself against them, and his Majesty; but expresly because his Father, and my Brother had so order’d; for we did not suppose it could be taken from us by Force of Arms; but we knew it was his Will to serve his Majesty, by delivering up the Fort to him. He finding we persisted in this Opinion, resolv’d to murder my Brother, and his own Unkle, the true Heir of the Crown, cutting him in Pieces, by the Hands of a Slave, when he came upon his Word, and had his Security and mine. Wherefore considering the Injustice of my Nephew upon this Occasion, and that he will not perform what his Father, my Brother and I promised to his Majesty, I am resolv’d from this Time forward, to become his Majesty’s sincere Subject and Servant. And I do by these Presents, oblige my self, and swear by my Law, at I did swear; and do not depart from it, to the Father Vicar Antony Ferreyra, to give all my Help and Assistance, towards the taking of the Fort, with all my Kindred and Friends, till it shall be in the Possession of his Majesty’s Commander, or whosoever shall come with the Portugueses, or Spaniards that attend him; upon Condition, that the Commander, or Commanders, shall, in his Majesty’s Name, perform what Duarte Pereyra, the Commander in chief promis’d me and sign’d for him, I having given him a Counterpart; which is, that I shall be proclaim’d King of Ternate, as soon as Possession is taken of the Fort for his Majesty; both in regard it belongs to me in Right of my Father, and of the Service I now do, and hereafter hope to do his Majesty. I therefore beg it as a Favour of your Lordship, and require you in his Majesty’s Name, that you take Care to send the greatest Number of Men you possibly can, and with the greatest Expedition; to the End that this my Intention, and Will to serve his Majesty herein may be effectual, which I hope will be without the Expence of Lives; notwithstanding the Fort is well fortify’d, as your Lordship may have been inform’d. The Commander in chief, will write to your Lordship, what Season and Order those Forces are to observe. Given at Tydore, to which Place I am come to this Intent, as will be testify’d by the Father Vicar Antony Ferreyra, and the Judge Antony de Matos, whom, as Persons of such Note, I desir’d to sign for me. May the 23d.

Nunno Pereyra’s Perswasions to the same Governor. At the Bottom of the Letter, the Vicar and Matos certify’d his Hand and Subscription. With this came another very long one, wherein Duarte Pereyra gives the Governour a more ample Account of what is here deliver’d briefly, representing to him the Opportunity offer’d in forcible Terms. He tells him that Mandraxa a little before his Death, had propos’d the same thing to him, that his Brother Tulo now did; and that they were desirous to fulfill what they promis’d Nunno Pereyra. That the Island of Machian, the most fruitful in Clove, Espous’d the Party that was against the King. That they could no longer endure their Oppression. He perswaded him to Arm 400 Spaniards, if they were come from Mexico, and to Ship them off for the Expedition upon Ternate, giving out, that they were going to clear those Seas from Javaneses, whose Friendship the People of Ternate value more than they do ours. That besides the good Success he expected by the Help of those Forces, they would at least secure those Ports against the English, the People of Ternate having always a Fleet in Readiness. That the Enterprize might succeed with Fifteen Frigates, and one Galeon, provided they went to stay a Year at the Moluccos, and brought a Number of Philippine Pioneers. He says, the Javanese Ships are less than the Frigats, and there are Forty Soldiers in each of them, who lye Aboard Eight Months, and live a Year upon 300 Bushels of Rice. That in Case the Frigates could not hold the Men, they should bring some Junks, which are necessary Vessels to Transport Provisions from the Islands of Burro and Bachian. He complains of the King of Tydore’s ill Behaviour, and his Avarice; of Sancho de Vasconcelos, and James de Azambuja, who built the Fort of Tydore in an ill place. He commends the King of Bachian, and says he in private lives like a Christian. Among these Things he intermixes many more, all of them tending to perswade the Expedition of Ternate, to blot out the last Disgrace, without any Expence to the King, through Cachil Tulo’s Contrivance.

The Governour receiv’d this Dispatch, and he would willingly have put it in Execution immediately; but as it went on slowly, and the Death The Projects for executing the Design. of Cachil Tulo happened in the mean while, it was requisite to delay the Design, and attend to the Preservation of the Philippine Islands, against the Machinations of the Chineses and Japoneses, against whose Robberies and Burnings they are never secure. Each of these Attempts harass’d the Province with the Expence of Treasure, and Power, so that there was a necessity of breathing to recover both. It was thought the most proper Advice to joyn from the Philippines and Malaca, with equal Force, coming from both Parts to Arm in the Moluccos, which was the Boundary of both Provinces. This took Effect some Years after, Captain Andrew Furtado coming from Malaca, of whose Actions it will be proper to begin to speak to give a Reputation to his Person.

Andrew Furtado de Mendoza might have Ennobled his Family, had it Andrew Furtado his Actions. not been of antient Quality. He was the Terror of those Eastern Parts, where he serv’d the King ever since the Year 1576, subduing Barbarous Nations. In the Year 1587 he was the Governour of the Fort of Rachol, till he came to have that of Malaca. Whilst he was in the first, some Villages of Gentiles rose up against the Ministers of the Church, disturbing Christianity with Warlike Disorders. Furtado pacify’d them with Severity, and his Authority. In 1591 Furtado was Commander of the Portuguese Soldiery in that Archipelago, and was very earnest to employ them in the Recovery of Ternate; but was hinder’d by other Wars, which he concluded Victoriously. In August that same Year, he was inform’d that Eighteen Galeons had put out of Cunnal, Commanded by Cutumaza, assisted by Raju, with a Design to Besiege the Fort of Ceylon. This Cutumaza had the Year before Burnt a Ship of ours, Sailing for China, and made dismal Havock on the Coast of Coromandel. Furtado went out in Search of the Enemies Fleet, and by the way reliev’d the Fort of Ceylon; and on the Coast of Malabar he met three Ships Bound from Mecca for Cunnal. He fought them, and Sunk two, the Sea running so high, that the Vessels which Row’d could not attack them. The other after a long Dispute yielded to him. This Victory was a sufficient Revenge for the Burning of our Ships. Continual War is maintain’d in these Parts, which Neighbour upon Malaca; and that in Ceylon never ceases, contrary to the Advice of Persons that are well acquainted with India; because the best Product of that Island being the Cinnamon, a Commodity of less Durance than the Mace, Clove and Pepper, they look upon almost all the expence laid upon Ceylon, as good as thrown away. Besides that the greatest Commanders are employ’d in suppressing the continual Rebellions of those most inconstant People, without stretching out, at least as far as the Moluccos, by their Absence encouraging their Tyranny, and giving Opportunity to Nations that are our Enemies to fix themselves in our Forts.

Ceylon describ’d. Ceylon is one of the most Remarkable Islands In the World, and the most fruitful. It lies opposite to Cape Comorin, Nobly Inhabited, and cultivated. In it grow all Plants, known in all other Parts of the World, Nutmegs, Pepper, Cinnamon, and the most Excellent call’d Mosyllion grows in this Island. Here is Wild and Garden Fruit, Spanish Figs, and Grapes, and the best Oranges in all Asia. There are whole Woods of mighty Palm-Trees. The Variety of Flowers, would take up much Time to describe it; as also of Grain known to us, Wheat, Rice, and Flax, of which and their Cotton, they make wonderful Webs. It has all sorts of Precious Stones, Gold, Silver, Steel, Tin, Iron, and Seed Pearl. Several Product. Christaline Rivers, and Fountains moisten it, with delightful and Medicinal Waters, of Excellent Qualities. And among the rest there are Springs of Liquid Bitumen, thicker than our Oyl, and some of pure Balsam. There are Burning Mountains continually blazing, and casting out Clods of Brimstone among the Crags of the Hills; where there are Groves Birds. of Tall Trees, on whose Branches are to be seen all sorts of Birds that fly in other Parts of the World, and among them our Turkys, Wild Hens, Beasts. and Pidgeons. It abounds in Deer, Wild-Boars, Tygers, Lions, and Elephants. Elephants of so Noble a Kind, that all others submit to them. Those that are bred in this Island have such an Extraordinary Natural Instinct, that it verifies what Aristotle, Plutarch, Athenæus, Ælian, Pliny, and others, who have Writ Natural History testifie, and is, that whether it proceeds from Knowledge, or Habit, they partake of the Wit, Sense, and even of the Prudence of Men. We are told they have so much Sense of Honour, that they will not go Aboard a Ship, if they imagine they are carry’d to serve Princes in strange Countries, and that they obey, if their Owners swear they will bring them back to their own. That they are concern’d at abusive Words given them. That they pay a sort of Religious Respect to the Sun and Moon. That they remember such Things as they conceive; and Gellius perswades us we may believe, that at Night they bewail their Servitude with doleful Complaints; and if any Man happens to come near in the Height of their Lamentation, they with shame suppress their Sighs; and in short, they seem feasible of the Iniquity of their Fate. In this Country it is their Part to load and unload Ships, the Weight of Commerce, whether Arms, Metals, Provisions, or other Commodities whatsoever hanging on their Teeth, or lying on their Necks. They are more willing to carry Arm’d Men on their Backs, in great Castles built to that purpose. They serve the Chingalas, not as they did in Rome at publick Shows, but in Battel, as they did the Carthaginians, and afterwards the Romans. The People of Ceylon believe their Country is the Terrestrial Opinion that Paradise is in Ceylon. Paradise. They call the Top of a certain Mountain Adam’s Point, and on it, they say, is to be seen the Print of his Foot, and that there he did Pennance. Upon this Belief, the Jogues, who are penitent Pilgrims, visit that Point, where they affirm there grows a thick Tree, of an indifferent Strange Tree. Height, with small rough Leaves, of a dusty Colour, the Bark Ash-colour’d, which in the Night shines, and dispells Darkness. Under Colour of this Superstition, all the Gangs of strowling Players or Actors, come Players. out of this Island, and travel throughout all India, representing their Fables, with odd Gestures, and Dancing to little Flat Tabors, Bag-pipes, and Rattles of small Bells. Abundance of Pearls are found about it. The Gold and other Metals are kept untouch’d in the Mines, by publick Law, and yet notwithstanding this Precaution, they are not free from War and Oppression. The Natives are call’d Chingalas, and resemble the Malabars in Customs and Countenances. They have broad Noses, but are not so black, and go naked, but not to immodesty. Formerly they had but one King, who was dispossess’d by Force, and Treachery, and the Kingdom King’s expell’d. divided among many. Division having thus weaken’d them, a Barbarian, call’d Raju, tyrannically expell’d the King’s the Island; one of whom was by the Magnificence of the Kings of Portugal bred at Goa.

Raju was a subtle Soldier, and jealous even of those that supported him. He had some Years before, besieg’d the Fort of Columbo, with a great Body of Foot, Elephants and Horse. Andrew Furtado being in search of the Enemies Fleet, in Prosecution of his Revenge for the Ships lost, to relieve Furtado relieves Columbo. the Fort of Columbo, doubled Cape Comorin, thro’ the Streight of Ceylon, at the Time when it is usually most difficult and dangerous for Tall Ships, much more for such Vessels as use Oars. He came to the Fort so opportunely, that had he stay’d never so little longer it had been lost, for most of the Garrison had mutiny’d against their Commander in Chief Simon de Brito who was wounded by them with two Musket Balls. Raju was marching with all Expedition by Land to Columbo for fear of slipping the Opportunity offer’d him of taking Possession of it. Cutumuza lay with all his Fleet in the River Cordiva, distant from the Fort ready to attack it by Sea, when Raju fell on by Land. Furtado was before-hand with him, and getting in, dispos’d all Things for its Defence. He quell’d the Mutiny, punish’d the Ring-leaders, satisfy’d such as had just Cause of Complaint or had been wrong’d, and with all possible Speed went out to find Cunale’s Fleet. Nor was he disappointed, for the Enemy did not offer Beat, the Indian Fleet. to fly, but met him, with his Ships drawn up in good Order, and after Cannonading, they laid one another aboard, where there was an obstinate Fight on both Sides, till Cunnale’s Navy was defeated. Furtado took 14 Galeons, with all their Artillery, and Men, besides Abundance kill’d. The Admiral fled with only four Ships of 18 he had, and made to Raju’s Country. This Victory was sufficient Satisfaction for the Damage receiv’d by that rebellious Fleet, the ill Success whereof discourag’d Raju from coming to besiege Columbo, so that he retir’d and dismiss’d his Army.

Not long after, Furtado was inform’d by his Spyes, that the King of Jasanapatan had concluded a League with Raju, pressing him to return to the Siege of Columbo, whilst he did the same to Mana. That his Presumption might not want such Punishment, as became the Honour of the Crown of Portugal, and the Reputation of its Grandeur, which is more prevalent in those Parts than Force, Furtado gathering what Power he could, with all possible Celerity attack’d that King. He was not unprovided, but drawing Routs him, and subdues his Kingdom. up without the Walls of that City, offer’d him Battel, his Men, Elephants and Horses covering spacious Fields. Furtado playing both Parts of a Commander, and a Soldier, drew up his Forces, encourag’d them in few Words; and both Sides coming to the Charge exercis’d their Force and Fury; but at Length the King’s Troops were routed, and he slain entering the City, in which abundance of Brass Cannon was found, besides the Plunder, which was considerable. He took Possession of it, and seizing the Forts and Garrisons, carry’d on the War there in such Manner, that the whole Kingdom seeing such severe Execution, and feeling it so heavily within its Bowels, submitted to the King of Spain. By his Authority, when the Sword was put up, he appointed a Kinsman of the late King, to whom of Right it belonged, to reign in Jasanapatan, he having been taken in the last Battel. He caus’d him to swear and plight his Faith, that he would be a perpetual Vassal to his Majesty; imposing on him the Payment of a yearly Tribute, which still subsists. The Writings containing this Settlement were sent by him into Spain, where and at Goa, all that had been done was approv’d of by the Viceroy, and the Conqueror, who had concluded it so happily, highly applauded.

Ternate the Cause of Rebellions. He next Strengthned the Fort of Columbo, with Four Ships of his Fleet, and 100 Soldiers; and Supply’d Cosme de la Feta with Eighty Men, under Two Captains, to prosecute the Affair of Candia, which was committed to him, and sorted good effect. No Rebellion broke out in those Parts, but what was either supported by Ternate, or proceeded from its Example, and great Celerity was requisite in the Commanders for suppressing of it.

Coast of Pearl Fishery Rebells, and is reduc’d. At this same Time all the Coast of the Pearl Fishery rebell’d, and among other sudden Destruction usually made by Seditious Men in Arms, the Subjects of Vinapanaique burnt Twenty five Christian Churches. Furtado made all possible speed to chastize them before the Rebellion grew to a Head. The Mutineers not being well Strengthned, sent Embassadors to him, begging Peace, and colouring their Guilt with Excuses, which Furtado admitted of because it was convenient for his Majesties Service; upon Condition they should make good all the Damages occasion’d by their Revolt. He commanded them to rebuild the Churches they had destroy’d, and to grant the Society of the Jesuits, who had then the Charge of the Christians in that Country, all the Liberties and Immunities demanded by those then residing there; taking sufficient Hostages for the Performance.

Furtado ill us’d would depart India. These and other no less notable Actions, he perform’d in the space of four Months; but as Envy seldom fails to oppose Valour, when he came to Cochin, and was there ready to set out for the Conquest of the Moluccos, and particularly of Ternate, he received Letters from the Viceroy, Matthias de Albuquerque commanding him to deliver up the Fleet to Nunno Vello Pereyra. He obey’d, and when he came to Goa, was Imprisoned, and put to Trouble. As soon as it was in his Power, he resolv’d to depart India, and remove himself from the ill-will of those he thought were not his Friends; but the City of Goa conjur’d him not to forsake it, and in vain endeavour’d to procure a Reconciliation betwixt those Commanders. This happened in the Year 1592, when, and some Years after, Ternate might have been reliev’d, as Furtado desir’d, had not the Animosities reigning obstructed it. However they were so far from employing him, that, tho’ Furtado several times Offer’d himself, with his own Ships, and at his proper Cost, where there was such Necessity of suppressing Cunnale, yet he was as often Rejected, and that Victory envy’d him, which afterwards he had granted by Heaven, as we shall see in its Place.

At this Time Santiago de Vera was discharged of his Command of the Philippine Islands. He had signified his Intentions to Andrew Furtado, and received his Answer, That he would comply with his Desires; but Fortune disappointed these good Beginnings, embroiling Furtado with those who did not love him, and removing Santiago from his Government. His Successor was Gomez Perez de las Marinnas, Knight of the Order of Santiago, Gomez Perez Governor of the Philippines. or St. James the Apostle, a Person of high Reputation, born at Betanzos, in the Kingdom of Galicia. He arriv’d at the Philippines in the Year 1590, and brought with him his Son Don Lewis, Knight of the Order of Alcantara. The new Governor found Manila open, without any Form of a City, and without Wealth to Improve it. Above 200000 Pieces of Eight were wanting for this Purpose; yet he compass’d the Work by Projects, and Contrivance without any Dammage to the Publick, or to private Persons. He Monopoliz’d the Cards; he laid Penalties on excessive Gaming, and punish’d such as Forestal’d the Markets, and on Victuallers, and other Retailers of that Sort that were guilty of Frauds; with these Fines he built the Walls of Manila, which are 12849 Geometrical Foot in Compass, He Walls Manila; Builds Forts, &c. each Foot being the third part of a Yard. He apply’d himself diligently to this Work, and the Inhabitants attended it, being willing to forward it on Account of the Intreaties and Example of their Chief. The City had but one Fort, and that ill built, wherefore he Erected another at the Mouth of the River, calling it Santiago, and enclosed the old one. He finish’d the Cathedral, and built from the Ground the Church of St. Potenciana, Patroness of the Island, for Women that have retir’d from the World. Then he apply’d himself to casting, and brought able Artists, who furnish’d the Place with heavy and small Cannon; built Galleys to Cruize and Trade, whereon depends the Welfare of those Countries; and pursuant to what he had promis’d in Spain, bent his Thoughts towards Ternate, and all the Moluccos; reflected on the Disreputation of the unfortunate Expeditions of his Predecessors, who attempted the Conquest of that flourishing Kingdom, and how he might punish those who Tyranniz’d in it.

He imparted his Thoughts by Word of Mouth, and by Letters to Zealous His first Steps for recovery of the Moluccos. Persons, and more particularly to F. Marta, a Priest of the Society of Jesus, and a grave and active Man, whose Experience and Doctrine had been very Advantageous in those Parts. This Religious Man furnish’d him with Intelligence, Advice, and proper Ministers to prepare and carry on the Work; one of whom was Brother Gaspar Gomez, a Spaniard, and Lay-Brother of the said Society. Among the many Conferences there were to this Effect, I find an Exhortation of F. Antony Marta, in a Letter he writ to the Governor from Tydore, which, because it is an Original, and conducing for the better Understanding of this Affair, I will here insert, translated out of the Portuguese. Grant me this Liberty, since the Speeches which are generally Fabulous, pretended to be made by Generals and Consuls, in the Greek and Latin Histories, are allow’d of. F. Antony Marta says thus;

F. Merta’s Letter, of the State of the Moluccos. In fine, your Lordship is resolv’d to undertake this Expedition. You will have a spacious Field for dilating the Glory of God very much, and rendering your Name famous to Perpetuity. By it your Lordship will acquire to his Majesty a most Large and Wealthy Kingdom, since all this Archipelago of the Moluccos and Amboina, as far as Banda, which is above 130 Leagues in Length and 70 in Breadth, is an inexhaustible Source of Clove, Nutmeg, and Mace, which will afford his Majesty a Yearly Income of 200000 Crusados, which is about 27000 Pounds Sterling, then a considerable sum, in India alone; besides that of other Islands, which produce no Clove. Nor will it require any Expence, because the Country it self will freely afford it on its very Mountains; and what is yet much more, your Lordship will gain above 200000 Souls to God, all which, in a short time, after subduing the Kingdom, will become Christians, without any, or with very little Opposition; whereby your Lordship will have a burning Flambeau in this World, to light and conduct you to Heaven. Besides, you will magnify and perpetuate your Name, with a Title nothing inferior to those of the ancient Roman Generals, such as those of Germanicus, Africanus, and the like. It is not now requisite to touch upon the Method your Lordship is to observe for compassing this Enterprize, to your eternal Praise; for, as we understand, there is no want of Experience with you for Warlike Affairs; Yet if your Lordship should be any way Dubious, Jerome de Azevedo is able to inform you of such things as you shall desire to know. He is well acquainted with the Strength of the Moluccos, and of their Enemies. However I would have your Lordship look League of the Mahometans. upon this War as considerable and difficult, because it is very convenient to come well Provided, and Resolv’d. You are not to Fight with the Ternates alone, but with all the Moors of this Archipelago. Hitherto the Fort of Amboina had to do with the Ternates, that are at Veranula, and this of Tydore with those in the Island Ternate; but now of late we are to fight with those of the Islands of Banda and of Seram. All the Moors in those Parts Assembled last year, and Resolv’d, That for the future the War should be carry’d on under the Name of their Religion. And for the more Security, and better Establishing of this Point, they chose those of Banda for Chiefs of their Law; and took an Oath to lay down their Lives, or expell the Portugueses. Accordingly the last Year, those of Banda came with the Ternates Fort of Amboyna Beseig’d. of Veranula, with a great number of Carcoas, to Beseige the Fort of Amboyna; and in the Engagement they had with us, took one of the two Galiots we brought from Goa, tho’ it was not their Valour, but our Negligence that occasion’d the making of that Prize. It plainly appear’d, that our Lord did it to punish our Pride. This so far Encouraged them, that they durst afterwards daily Cruize in sight of the Fort, took the Fishermen that went out in the Morning to follow their Trade, and laid a Ground some Carcoas on the Shore. They erected a Mosque opposite to the Fort, as in a safe Place, and thus they kept the Fort Besieged with Contempt, for the space of a Month. At the end thereof, the Galley going out, with one Galiot we had left, made them fly, every one to his own Country, giving out, and threatning, That they would Return next Year with a greater Fleet, which will be about September. We are certainly assured that the People of Banda, left 50 of their prime Men at Amboyna, as Hostages for the performance of their Engagement. This is also known by a Man of our own, who fled from Banda, having been carry’d thither Prisoner from Amboyna. We are informed, that 25 Carcoas would set out, so many being Launch’d, and they were to Sail after their Lent, which is at the End of this Month of July, and to joyn the Seyrves, and the rest of the Confederates, in order to return again before the Fort of Amboyna. If they come with such a Force, I am very suspitious that the Fort will be lost; because the Enemies method is to take in all the Towns that are Subject to it; and when this is left alone, wanting the Support of its Neighbours, it must of necessity Surrender. Antony Perez, the Governor of that Fort, is a Man of Courage, and well Fortified; and yet there are Circumstances to be consider’d, some of them very Difficult; as that the Enemies are Numerous, and there will come some Confederates with them, who are fit for any piece of Treachery; besides, that they cannot be Reliev’d from any Part whatsoever, for the full space of five Months, that is till the beginning of January next. We cannot but apprehend some great Mischief will happen; for supposing they do not take the Fort, still this War is Dangerous, as being Universal, with all the Moors; stirr’d up by means of the Caciques; Concerted under solemn Oaths; and Declar’d to be Religious, with full Remission of Sins to all that Die in it. There is no want of Fomenters, and those Caciques of Note, and General Conspiracy against Christians. great Authority among the Moors, in Banda, Amboyna, Ternate, and Tydore. These Men urge their Religion, and the Honour of Mahomet, and by that means manage the People as they please; as I have found by Experience this Year, and in this War we had at Amboyna, in which I was. For formerly the Moors were soon weary of being at Sea, and when any Man of Note happened to be kill’d in Fight, they presently retir’d, looking upon it as an ill Omen. Now they continue all the seasonable Months at sea, without flinching; tho’ the Portugueses slew 150 of their Men, and among them their Admiral, and others of the prime Commanders they had in their Fleet. To this must be added, That this is a general Conspiracy of all the Moors against us; insomuch, that two who were our Friends, and had Assisted us several times, with their Fleets, against the Ternates, being those of the Island Burro, these being summoned by the Commander to Sail with him in the Navy, as they had done at other times, did not only refuse it now, but would not so much as receive the Message, or suffer him that carry’d it to Land. The Tydores did the same, for the Commander of Amboyna demanding Assistance of them, they would not go, alledging that their Fort was in as much Danger. And the King of Tydore being inform’d of your Lordships coming, his Subjects declare before hand, and perhaps at the Instigation of their King, That they will have no Spaniards in these Parts; which makes us look about, where they will raise Moors to Destroy us. Therefore all Delays, in this Affair, will be very dangerous; because we are Inferior to the Moors, and must of Necessity Fight them, since it is for Religion, and Honour, on both which Accounts they are become our mortal Enemies. By this your F. Marta presses for Relief. Lordship will understand what need we are in of your Succour and Relief; and may compute how many are to draw their Swords against you, since they are all our Enemies in general, and have Conspir’d against us. However, it will be Discretion first to Dissemble with the Tydores, that they may not joyn the Ternates, and by that means render the War more tedious and difficult. I do not speak to all the rest in particular, according to my Notion, because I refer it to Jerome de Azevedo, who will give a very good Account. But let this be Established as a Maxim, That your Lordship has a mighty Enterprize in Hand; and I trust in God he will give you Wisdom, and Strength to go through it with Ease; since you come to Revenge the Injuries formerly, and now offered by these Barbarians, to God and his Irreverences to Religion. Saints. For we know that the Ternates still drink out of the consecrated Chalices, and make use of the Patens to Offer, or Receive any thing, as on profane Salvers; and of the Vestments, and Ornaments of Altars, they make Cloaths, and Hangings for their Houses. The People of Banda, most of them, wear Ornaments of the Blood of above 3000 Christians, they Treacherously Murder’d, at several times, in their Ports, as they went thither to Trade with them; and in that Island, and part of the Sea, there are Streams of Spanish and Portuguese Blood running. Your Lordship came to spread the Catholick Faith, and that you may the better conceive what Jerome de Azevedo will say to you touching this Affair, I send you by him a Draught of all this Archipelago, as well of the Moluccos, as of Amboyna, and Banda. In it your Lordship will see what a large Kingdom we loose, when it might be recover’d with little Cost. It only remains, That your Lordship come, with all possible Expedition, because the greatest Danger is in Delay; and when you are here you will find brave Commanders, who will assist you with their Good Officers and Soldiers. Swords and their Advice. Among them is Sancho de Vasoncelos, who was Commander at Amboyna, has often fought with these Infidels, and obtain’d signal Victories over them. Here is also Thomas de Sousa, Commander of Molucco, and of most Southern Parts, a Man expert in Martial Affairs. In Tydore and Amboyna, you will also find brave Soldiers, and there will not want to Pay them, for the Riches of the Country will be sufficent for that, and to satisfy them with Gold, precious Stones, and other Booty; besides you will find many sorts of Arms. We Religious Men daily offer up our Prayers, Gomez Perez prepares. and will so continue to do with Fervour; and tho’ the Unworthiness of the Ministers might be a Hinderance, yet we hope they will prove Advantageous.

The Governour receiv’d this Letter; which, with the Discourse he had more at large with Jerome de Azevedo, made him put the last Hand to a Work of so much Importance to the Service of the Christian Commonwealth, which had been neglected in those Parts. Gaspar Gomez had conferr’d with him long before, and by his Means, and the Accounts of other knowing Persons, the Governor was so well acquainted with the Kingdoms, and Seas, the Seasons and Dangers of the Undertaking, that he had no great need of F. Marta’s Map. He dispatch’d Gaspar Gomez, a Man of Secrecy and Activity, trusting him with the Design, because he was recommended by several grave Fathers of that Order. He gave him particular Instructions, with which, Gaspar Gomez sent as a Spy. and his own Experience, he wander’d about the Archipelago, and learnt as much as was convenient. He visited Ternate, Tydore, Mindanao, both the Javas, and scarce omitted any Place, as far as the Point of Malaca, but what he took a View of.

In the Year 1593, King Philip the 2d bestow’d the Government of Cartagena, in America, upon Don Pedro Bravo de Acunna. To take this Employ, D. Pedro de Acuna Governor of Cartagena. he quitted that he had in the Spanish Galleys; he was Captain of the Admiral Galley, and Vice-Admiral of them all, under the Adelantado, or Lord Lieutenant of Castile, his Kinsman. He had serv’d his Majesty many Years by Sea and Land, in the Mediterranean. No Action of Note was perform’d without him, since the Expedition of Navarino against the Turks, and the His brave Actions. others that ensu’d in those Parts, in Naples, in Portugal, and all those that occur’d before, till his Majesty was put in Possession of that Crown. Lastly, When he commanded the Spanish Galleys he fought those of the Moors and Turks, with the Galiots, and Brigantines of the Levant, and English Ships, and took and sunk several of both Sorts. He took a great Number of Slaves in Barbary; particularly at Zangazon, Benegicar, and Alcazar. He defended Cadiz from the Invasion, and Rapine of Drake, the English Admiral, who attempted it with a mighty Fleet. This was done by only four Galleys, but two of which were clean, yet the Bravery of the Commander made amends for all. How great an Action this was, and what Reputation Don Pedro gain’d by it, appear’d afterwards, when the English again possess’d themselves of Cadiz, at the Time that all the Galleys in Spain were in the Bay, and the Fleet then preparing to sail to the Indies. In each of these Actions, most whereof were victorious, there are many remarkable Particulars, and they all deserve large Encomiums; but since they do not belong to the Subject of this History, it would be blameable to insert them here.

The King for these Reasons constituted Don Pedro de Acunna, his Captain General, in the Province of Cartagena and Tierra Firme, and Commander of the Galleys on that Coast; which Commissions had never before been united in that Government. He gave him a Galley, and Orders to receive the Royal Fifths of the Pearl-Fishery, at the Island Margarita. He set out from the Port of Sanlucar, on the 27th of September, in a Pink, with 12 Soldiers, His Voyage. some Religious Men, and his Servants, the Galley, and another Ship following. The Winds soon rose, and the Sea swell’d, and the Vessels were dispers’d. In one of them there were 20 Soldiers, and 40 Slaves at the Oar, this was so far drove away, that they saw it no more, till five Days after they came to Cartagena. The Storm ceas’d, and Don Pedro arriv’d at Gran Canaria, but would not go into the City. He took in two hundred Cask of Water. The Governour Don Lewis de la Cueva was not in the Island; but it being known in his Family that Don Pedro was come, they sent to welcome him. The Visit was follow’d by some Horses loaded with Abundance of Fowl, Game, Sheep, Wine, Pears, and most stately Quinces, besides Abundance of other Provisions. He sail’d thence with a favourable Wind, which soon turn’d against him, and tho’ he was far enough off, drove back the Ships in Sight of Teneriffe. After being toss’d about for some Days, there happened such a tedious Calm between two Islands, as made Amends for the Violence of the Storms, and yet he had others afterwards as violent as those before. Many Days after, when they had lost their reckning, they arriv’d at the Island Metalinon, inhabited by unconquered Indians, where they took in Water without Opposition, for the Rest of the Voyage. Thence he had fair Weather to the Island Margarita. As soon as he landed in the Harbour, Don John Sarmiento de Villandrando, the Governour of the Island came to meet him, having hourly expected him, since he knew he was to come. The rejoycing, and Entertainment was such as became Friends, and Friends of that Quality.

An English Ship near the Island Margarita. An English Ship of above four hundred Tun Burthen, with thirty Pieces of Cannon of five thousand Weight each, and Abundance of Men, had been 30 days in a Harbour but two Leagues from the Island Margarita. Don John Sarmiento telling Don Pedro, what Insolences that Ship committed, and how much to his Disreputation she oppress’d the Islanders under his Government, desir’d he might attack her with his Galley. Don Pedro perswaded him to desist from that Enterprize, since it did not belong to him, and it was an unpardonable Fault to attack her, without an equal Force. Don John persisted so long, that he carry’d it against Don Pedro’s Opinion. They made to the Place where the Ship lay, passing by dangerous Rocks, and being come in Sight of it, perceiv’d it was stronger, and better provided than they had been told. Our Men, in Order to fight, turn’d out all the Women, most of them Wives to those that came in the Galleys. Twenty Soldiers came from the Island Margarita, by their Governours Order, who being ship’d they appear’d by Break of Day in Sight of the Enemy. The Wind then The Islanders oblige Don Pedro to Fight her. blowing fresh Don Pedro advising with the Natives of the Island Margarita and their Governour told them, it was requisite to expect a Calm, in Order to take the Ship, since the Galley could wait for it under Shelter, without any Danger. The Islanders being provok’d by the Dammage they had receiv’d, and to flatter Don John Sarmiento, answer’d, That they had two of the Prime Men of that Ship Prisoners in the City, by whose Account they were inform’d of the Distress she was in, and that she must surrender, as soon as attack’d. This Opinion being bandy’d about with Obstinacy, came to be Positiveness in Don John. Don Pedro looking upon it as such, and concerned to see his Friend engag’d in such a Piece of Madness, with those Hot, but unexperienc’d Men, said to them, By my long Experience in several Seas, I know it is the worst of Conduct to attack a Ship, when she has the Wind; but let us fall on; that the People of the Island Margarita may not have it to say that I deferr’d engaging out of Fear, and not out of Discretion. This said, he order’d his Galley to weigh Anchor. He arm’d himself, and Don John, and just as the Sun appear’d they attack’d the Ship The Engagement. with Fury and Violence. The English were not backward; they speedily cut the Cables of three Anchors they had out, and leaving them in the Sea, set their Sails. The Wind was fair and soon fill’d them. The Men were brisk and ply’d their Cannon without ceasing. Our Galley did the same, and fir’d five Shot, before it receiv’d any Harm. Then she ran her Beak against the Poop of the Ship, but could not grapple, nor board. Some Men went down to the Boats which were tow’d by the Ship, and cut the Ropes. The Ship, and Galley fell a firing again, without Intermission. Don Pedro receiv’d a Musquet Shot on his Target, which glancing off broke in Pieces a Board of the Stern Lockers, and wounded those that were next it. A Cannon Ball took of the Head of one of our Slaves, and scatter’d his Brains in Don Pedro’s Face; but another Ball touch’d him nearer, when it threw Don John Sarmiento into the Sea, who being sunk by the Weight of his Armour, was never seen again. Fourteen Soldiers of the Island Margarita, and nine Spaniards were kill’d, and many wounded, of all whom Don Pedro took Care, without neglecting the other Duties of a Commander. Some Persons of Note were also kill’d, as Alonso de Anduxar, a Youth about twenty Years of Age, of the Order of Christ, and Antonio Santiso, who had been a Captain in Flanders. The Ship holding on her Course, made the best of the fair Wind, and was seen to fly, as if she had been victorious; tho’ she threw many dead Bodies over Board, in Sight of our Men. Don Pedro return’d to the Island Margarita, lamenting the Death of his Friend, and his Wifes Widow-Hood, amidst the Tears of other Widows, and Fathers left Childless. He comforted the afflicted the best he could, received the King’s Boxes of Peals, and went on much griev’d at the Event, and to see how little his Precaution had avail’d.

Don Pedro had a prosperous Passage thence, to the Island Curazao, to Rio de la Hacha, and so in Sight of Cartagena. Being descry’d from the City Don Pedro at Cartagena. the Galleys went out to meet him, whose Musick and Guns, with those of the Fort made a Mixture of Harmony and Noise. He enter’d upon the Government and immediately took a View of the Galleys, Warlike Prepations being of the greatest Consequence in those Parts. He found them shatter’d, and almost gone to Ruin, refitted one, and furnish’d another with Slaves, and all other Necessaries. All things were before in such Disorder, and Confusion, that it was hard to distinguish betwixt the Galley Slaves and the Soldiers, the former going about as free, and gay as the latter. He blam’d this Liberty, and order’d the Heads and Beards of the Slaves to be shav’d, and that they should be chain’d. Next he took in hand the Divisions, Manners, and civil Government of the City, and there was soon a Reformation of Abuses, and publick Crimes, all this he perform’d by his Valour, and Example. He also review’d the Horse and Foot; repair’d the Fortifications; attended all Martial Affairs; had his Gates always open to decide Controversies, without Distinction of Persons; and tho’ he had here considerable Opportunities offer’d him, and much Matter to discover his Capacity, and the Greatness of his Soul, yet he found in himself greater Hopes and Desires, above what was present, and exciting him to advance farther, and to make known to the World that generous Restlessness, which was afterwards serviceable to the Church, by restoring its former Honour, in the remotest Provinces.

The End of the Fifth Book.

THE
HISTORY
OF THE
Discovery and Conquest
OF THE
Molucco and Philippine Islands, &c.

BOOK VI.

Gomez Perez builds four Galleys, and makes Slaves wrongfully. In the mean while Gomez Perez, still carrying on his Preparations, conceal’d the Design, without sparing any charge for Shipping, Provisions, or Men. Among other Necessaries, he built four choice Galleys and for the manning of them, took a Method which was look’d upon as severe. He Order’d, That as many Indians who were Slaves to other Indians of Quality, as would serve to Man the Galleys, should be bought up, and Paid for by the Spaniards, who were Proprietors, out of their own Money; setting the Price of each Slave at two Taes in Gold, each Taes of Gold their Value. Tae being little above an Ounce, which was the Price Slaves had in former Times been valu’d at among them. He promis’d, that the Proprietors should afterwards be Refunded what they laid out, from the Kings Revenue. Yet this did not seem to mollify the Rigour of the Order; because he improperly call’d those Indians Slaves, for their Lords use and love them like Children, set them at their own Tables, and Marry them to their Daughters; besides that, Slaves then were worth more Money. The Concern of those that were to be Sold, was attended by that of the Proprietors, who were to Discontent in the Philippines. contribute out of their Estates, to defray Charges they look’d upon as not very Necessary, and to Disgust their Vassals, by taking them away forcibly, being never likely to recover the Money they laid down, which they The Governors excuses. were well assur’d of. The Governour gave out, That those Galleys were to secure the Country, and defend it from the Danger that threatned; because he knew the Emperor of Japan was coming to Invade it, with a numerous Fleet; and that it could not be Defended without Galleys, and therefore it was absolutely Necessary to Man them with Slaves, since they had no others to Row. That these were not to be Fetter’d in the Galleys, nor Treated like Slaves, but so kindly used, that they themselves should prefer their Entertainment, before that of their Lords, whom they look’d upon as Parents, or Fathers-in-Law.

These Allegations, and the absolute Necessity of defending themselves, The Design against the Moluccos takes Air. silenc’d both Parties; but could not stop the Mouth of Fame, for it was already known, what Engagements he made before he came from Spain, to the King, the Ministers, the Kindred, and Fomenters of the Expedition of Ternate, so that whatsoever he conceal’d, was divulg’d by uncertain Authors. However some advis’d him not to rely on the Chineses, or Sangleyes for the Defence of the Philippines; because no natural or civil Tye had ever gain’d, or attracted their Affection towards them. That he ought to remember the fresh Instance of what they did, when his Predecessor employ’d them, and consequently should be watchful over them. That he sending a Supply of Men, Ammunitions and Provisions to the Fort and Town of Cagayan, which is on the Coast of that Island of Luzon, 80 leagues from the City Manila, and there being then no Ship to send it in, Necessity pressing, he thought he might relieve that Want, by making use of one of the Chinese Ships that were then at Anchor in the Harbour, and clear’d in Order to return to China. He commanded the Falshood of the Chineses. Supply to be put aboard her, and the Chineses to carry, and in the Way, to land it where he directed, since it was no let to their Voyage; promising to requite and gratify them for that Service. They undertook it with extraordinary Tokens of good Will; but their Artifice appear’d by the Event, and show’d how Men that are upon the Watch, improve Opportunities. The Chineses set sail, and the second Day after, when the Spaniards were asleep, as believing themselves safe among trusty Friends, they fell upon them so unexpectedly, that they had not Time to stand upon their Guard, but were all murder’d and cast into the Sea. They plunder’d all they carry’d, and dividing the Spoil, sail’d for their own Country. They Spanish Woman abandon’d in China. only sav’d one unhappy Spanish Woman, that went with our Men, and took her along with them. They spar’d her Life, but after having insolently abus’d her, they set her ashore, in a Sea-Port Town of the first Part of China they made. She presently had Recourse to the Magistrates, whom she acquainted with the Villany those Men had committed, and the Wrongs they had done her; but tho’ favourably heard by those Judges, she had no Satisfaction for her Wrongs, nor could she obtain Justice. However they appointed Officers to carry her up the Country, remitting her to other Supream Magistrates. In this Journey, which was many Leagues, she endur’d more than she had done before, till some of the Governors taking Compassion on her and her Tears, carry’d her to the City of Macao, where the Portugueses reside, and set her at Liberty. Thus the whole Matter came to be known, and it was at Manila in the Mouths of all Men, who now magnify’d it, upon Occasion of the New Enterprize.

Chineses put into the Galleys. In short, all the Slaves demanded by the Governour Gomez Perez, were raised with much Trouble and Oppression, and in the same Manner they were put into the Galleys, where they continu’d some Time before they departed, and many of them dy’d, as not being us’d to that sort of Life. All those Slaves were not sufficient to Man the Galleys, and the Admiral Galley remain’d without Rowers. This, and the Necessity of finishing the Work produc’d a more rigorous Practice than the former. The Governour order’d that 250 of the Chineses, who resort to the Philippines to Trade, should be taken to Man the Admiral Galley, and each of them to be allow’d two Pieces of Eight a Month, out of the King’s Revenue. He assur’d them, they should not be chain’d, but at Liberty, and with their Arms, to serve as Soldiers; and that they should only row in the Galleys when there was any Calm, and to weather some Capes. The Chineses being acquainted by their Chinese Governour with this Resolution, positively refus’d it, as an intolerable Burden. But our Governour pressing to bring about his Design, the Chinese assembled his People, to treat about the Affair, and contrive how 250 might be chosen out from among them all, threatning that he would take every Tenth Man out of their Houses. These Words provok’d them to such a Degree, that the next Day they shut up the very Windows of their Houses, and the Traders their Shops, and stopp’d the Provisions which run through their Hands. Our Governour seeing this Proceeding, and alledging that they mutiny’d, caus’d about 50 of those that came next to hand, to be seiz’d, and put to the Oar in the Galley. The others terrify’d by this Action, met, and drew from among them all, the 250, and because no Man would be of that Number, they divided 20000 Pieces of Eight among those that would comply, and gave every Chinese that would go in the Galley 80 Pieces of Eight, besides the King’s Pay. By Means of this good Encouragement, there was no Want of Chineses that listed themselves to row, but the 20000 Pieces of Eight were consum’d among them, or rather among the Officers. These 250 Chineses were form’d into five Companies, under five Chinese Christian Captains, who pass’d Musters and Reviews, with Pikes and Catanes, which differ little from Cymiters, and express’d Joy and Satisfaction.

Whilst these Things were in Agitation, Brother Gaspar Gomez came B. Gaspar Gomez brings Intelligence. to Manila, full of Intelligence, whereof he gave the Governour an Account, at several private Conferences. He said, the King of Ternate’s Affairs were in no ill Posture; tho’ somewhat weak’ned, by not agreeing with the Prime Men of his Kingdom; and that many of them threatned, they would Rebel, on Account of his Tyranny, and because he rais’d intolerable Taxes. That then, neither the Javaneses, nor the Lascarines, nor the Moors of Mecca frequented Ternate, as they had done at the Time when Captain Morones arriv’d there, under the Government of Santiago de Vera. He gave very particular Information concerning the two Forts of Talangame. That the King of Ternate had then about 3000 common Strength of Ternate. Soldiers, 1000 Musquetiers, and a great Number from his other Kingdoms. That they fought with Darts, Campilanes, or Cymiters, and Shields; and others had Coats of Mail, and Head-Pieces they got from the Portugueses, in exchange for Spice. That they had Abundance of Ammunition, all of their own making, of the Materials the Javaneses brought to barter for Clove. That the Principal Place was the City Ternate, where the King and all his Court reside, and therefore it is best secur’d, and from thence all others are supply’d, supported, and encourag’d. How to be attack’d. He advis’d that our Men should assault it before Break of Day; because all Attacks made upon those People in the Morning Watch had been successful. That, if our Fleet came unexpected, it would certainly succeed; but that the said King had his Spies spread abroad in almost all those Islands, as far as those of Canela, Sarvangan and Mindanao. That a good Number of Brass Sakers, and other great Guns might be brought in the Carcoas, from the Fort of Amboyna, and the Kings of Sian, and Tydore. That the People of Amboyna would send them upon Command, those of Sian and Tydore, upon very small Intreaty; because besides their owning the Crown of Spain, they are Enemies to Ternate. That the necessary Preparation for finishing the War, even in case the King of Tydore should fail, and it might be suspected he would not willingly see his Enemy utterly destroy’d, consisted in Artillery and Shipping, which was ready, and above 1200 Soldiers well arm’d, with their Coats of Mail and Head-Pieces, till they went over to the Island of Banda, to put in the necessary Garrison there. Light Vessels of good Use. That there should be a Number of Light Vessels to take the Enemy flying; for by that Means the War would be quite concluded in a short Time, and without Bloodshed. That even the Malecontent Ternates declar’d, and publish’d as much, and own’d, that if a considerable Number of Fighting Men should come into their Country, they would all come in and submit without striking Stroke. Hence he inferr’d, that there were conceal’d Christians in the Molucco Islands. That the Conquest of the whole Island of Banda, was very advantageous and profitable, and not hazardous, and that the Neighbourhood of Amboyna, which was ours, would be of great Consequence for maintaining it. He further affirm’d, That the Portugueses very much facilitated the Enterprize, and magnify’d the great Benefit it would be to his Majesty; and that F. Antony Marta, of whom the Governour had so great a Conceit, was of the same Opinion. Brother Gaspar Gomez added so many Circumstances to these particular Accounts, that he wholly inflam’d the Governour’s Heart.

King of Camboxa sends Spaniards Embassadors to the Governour. At this Time, Landara, King of Camboxa, sent the Governour an Embassy by two Spanish Commanders, attended by many of his Subjects, with such Splendor as the Occasion of it requir’d. That barbarous King thought fit his Embassadors should not be natural born Subjects, because of the Occasion his People had given him to suspect their Fidelity. He chose them of Different Conditions, to the End that such Variety, the Diversity of Inclinations, and Opposition, might produce the better Effect. The one of them was a Portuguese, his Name James Veloso, the other a Spaniard, Blas Ruyz de Fernan Gonzalez. They brought Gomez Perez a Magnificent Their Present. Present, a great Quantity of Ivory, Benjamin, China Ware, Pieces of Silk and Cotton, and an Elephant of a generous Temper, as afterwards appear’d by Experience. They deliver’d their Embassy, the Purport Subject of their Embassy. whereof was, to desire Succour against the King of Sian, who was marching against him of Camboxa, with a numerous Army; offering in Return for his Assistance to become subject to Spain, and embrace Christianity. That the King concluded, that so brave and gallant a Gentleman as Gomez Perez, would not on Account of any other Diversion refuse to perform an Action, which must redound so much to the Glory of God, and the Advantage of the Crown of Spain. The Governour receiv’d the Present, making a Return with another of some European Curiosities; and by way The Answer. of Answer, thank’d that King for the Confidence he had seem’d to place in him; but that, for the Present, he could not possibly afford the Succours, nor divert those Forces, which he was getting ready, to punish the King of Ternate, and recover that Kingdom, and the rest of the Moluccos, which had Rebell’d, so much to the Dishonour of the Spanish Nation. That his Highness should place his Confidence in the Goodness of God, and persevere in the Design of serving him in his Holy and True Religion, and as soon as the Expedition of Ternate was over, he would convert his Forces to the Relief of Camboxa. The Embassadors were dismiss’d with these Hopes, which the Governours Son, Don Lewis de las Marinas, afterwards made good; and to give them entire Satisfaction, and justify the Delay, it was found necessary to make Publick the true Design of that Fleet, which till then had been kept secret.

Mighty Preparations against Ternate. The Governour, in fine, resolv’d to set forward, and endeavour’d to take along with him all the Men he could get. All were listed that could be prevail’d upon either by Force or Intreaties. The Proprietors and Soldiers were extravagantly expensive, upon the Ships, Provisions, and Gallantry; and the Philipines being well furnish’d with all Things, they did more than had been imagin’d, or could be in the Governour’s Power. He sent his Son Don Lewis, with all the Soldiers that were in Pay, to the Island of Zebu, where the Fleet was to rendevous, and there he continued six Months, waiting for new Orders. Gomez Perez stay’d at Manila, ordering Matters of great Moment. Two Days before his Departure, being invited by, and supping in the House of Peter de Rojas, his Lieutenant, where diverting himself with Gaming, and much Pleasure, he grew Prediction of ill Success. so merry, contrary to his Custom, and the Harshness of his Temper, that many interpreted it as a good Omen of his Success. He said in Discourse, that F. Vincent, of the Order of St. Francis, had told him, the Enterprize could not succeed, because the Army was made up of Men that were carry’d away by Force, and particularly the marry’d Men were so. He departed Manila on the 17th of October, with six Royal Galleys, one Galleon, one small Vessel call’d a Foist, one little Frigot, and several other Frigots, Carcoas, and Bireyes, which are another Sort of The Fleet sets out. Vessels of the Natives; all which, being part the Kings, and part belonging to Subjects, who offer’d to serve him with their Lives and Fortunes, amounted to an hundred. There were a Thousand Spaniards well arm’d; above four hundred Musquetiers of the Territory of Manila; a thousand more of those they call Visaias, Men arm’d with Lances, Shields, Its Force. Bows and Arrows, and above four hundred Chineses, of those that dwelt in the Island, besides a good Number of those that came to Trade taken into Pay; but many more Compell’d than Voluntiers. The Galleys carry’d Abundance of Provisions for the Army, over which he appointed his Son Don Lewis Perez, his Lieutenant, and sent him before, as has been said, with Orders to make for the Island of Zebu. He embark’d himself aboard the Admiral-Galley, which had twenty eight Benches for the Men to row, and was mann’d with the 250 Chineses for the Oar. Eighty Spaniards were put aboard it; they touch’d at Cabite, sail’d thence on the 19th, and with them some Vessels, in which there were private Persons, who follow’d at their own Expence, coasting the Island of Manila as far as Balajan. They parted, because the Vessels kept in Sight of Land, and the Governour put out to Sea. On the 25th he came alone to pass the Night, at the Point call’d de Azufre, or of Brimstone, in the Island of Manila, opposite to that of Caza, where the Current, and the Drift of the Water from the Land run strong, and the Breezes then blowing, the Galley could not weather it. He anchor’d under the Shelter of it, and yet dragg’d a little with the Force of the Current. They made the Chineses row excessive Chineses at the Oars ill us’d. hard, to bring her up again under the Land. In short, they row’d very faintly, either because they were not us’d to that Labour, and forc’d to the Oar, or because they were then tir’d, and incens’d with the Command. Other contrary Winds darted up, which again obstructed their Voyage, and to weather some Points of Land, it was necessary to ply the Oars, and to vex the Crew, with the usual Severity and Punishment commonly inflicted aboard the Galleys. They thought this hard, and contrary to what the Governour had assur’d them, which was, that they should be kindly treated; but neither the Lash, nor the Threats, nor the stemming of the Currents, with the Vigour and Sweat of their Bodies, seem’d so The Governour threatens them. intollerable, and injurious to them, as to hear the angry and stern Governour himself bid them row manfully, for if they did not, he would put them in Chains, and cut off their Hair. This to the Chineses is an Affront that deserves Death, for they place their Honour in their Hair, which they cherish and preserve very fair, and value themselves upon it, as the Ladies in Europe us’d to do, all their Delight and Reputation being The Chineses rebel and kill the Spaniards. in keeping it curiously comb’d. Hereupon they resolv’d to mutiny, to prevent such an Affront and Contempt. The next Night, which was the 25th of October, being appointed for the Execution, when the tir’d Spaniards laid themselves down upon the Benches, and other convenient Places in the Vessel, the Chineses did so too, but cunningly dividing themselves, every one lay down by a Spaniard, pretending to be asleep. In the dead of the last Watch, which they thought the properest and safest Time, seeing the Spaniards sound asleep, the Chineses, upon hearing of a shrill Whistle, which was the Signal agreed upon between them, started up all together, and every Man with wonderful Celerity put on a white Vest, or Shirt, that they might know one another in the Height of their Fury, and the Darkness of the Night, and so distinguish where to make the Slaughter, tho’ for the more Security, they also lighted abundance of Wax-Candles, which they had conceal’d wrap’d up in those white Vests. Then they drew their Catanas, which are keener, and more crooked than our Cymiters, and began without any Noise every Man to hew his next Spaniard; so proceeding in their Fury, and killing all those that slept. Above 60 Persons had imbark’d in the Admiral-Galley, some of them being the Governour’s Servants, and other old Soldiers, who suffer’d Inconveniencies to oblige and divert him. They had play’d all the Night, and being tir’d, and the Heat very violent, they lay naked, some on the Gang-Way in the middle of the Galley, others on the Benches, and the greatest Favourites, who had more Room allow’d them, in the Poop, and to that Purpose the Governour retired into the Cabin. The Chineses continu’d the Execution, on those who slept, without any Mistrust, which was done so expeditiously, that when some of those who slept in the Poop awak’d, the other Spaniards were all kill’d. The Watch heard nothing of it, tho’ there could be no Excuse for that Neglect, because there had been Instances and Warnings enough before. Others awak’d, and feeling themselves wounded, in the Confusion leap’d into the Sea, where most of them Many of them drowned. Only 12 escape. were drown’d; some few cast themselves into the Sea before they were hurt, and were also swallow’d up by it, tho’ they were near Land, because the Current being strong, they could not stem it; twelve escap’d, and many Bodies were found along the Shores.

The Chineses now grown bold, drew out the Pikes they had hid under the Benches, and finish’d their Treacherous Work with Noise. The Governor, The Governor kill’d. who was under Deck, Sleeping, with a Candle and Lanthorn by him, Awak’d; and that he might do so, they made the greater Noise; and the Chineses themselves cry’d out to him, desiring he would come up to pacify a Quarrel there was among the Castillas, so they call the Spaniards. He, for this Reason, or believing the Galley dragg’d, as it had done at other times, getting up in his Shirt, and opening the Scuttle, look’d out, lifting half his Body above it: At the same time the Chineses fell upon him with their Cymiters, and wounded him Mortally, clutting his Head, and running him through with their Pikes in more than barbarous manner. Seeing his Death near he drew back, and took up the Prayer Book of his Order, which he always carry’d about him, and an Image of our Blessed Lady, and ended his life between those two Advocates, which were afterwards seen bathed in his Blood: Yet he dy’d not presently, for they afterwards found him in his Bed, imbracing the Image, where he Bled to Death, and about him the Bodies of Daniel Gomez de Leon, his Valet de Chamber, Pantaleon de Brito, Sucro Diaz, John de Chavez, Peter Maseda, John de S. Juan, Carrion Ponce, and Francis Castillo, all of them his Servants, and four brave Slaves, who had the same End. This was not known till it was Day; because none of the Chineses durst go down where the Governor was that Night, fearing least some of the 80 Spaniards that were in the Galley, had retir’d thither; such was the Dread of their own Guilt. None were left Two sav’d alive. alive in the Galley, but F. Francis Montilla, of the Barefoot Order of S. Francis, and John de Cuellar, the Governors Secretary, who lay under Deck, whether the fainthearted Chineses durst not go down in three Days, when their first Fury was over. Then they afterwards set Ashore, on the Coast of Ilocos, in the same Island of Luzon, that the Natives might suffer them to Water; and because the Frier and the Secretary had Capitulated, having their promise that they would do them no hurt, before they surrendered. The Chineses being satisfy’d that there were no more ancient Christians left, began to Shout and Roar for Joy that they had gone through with their Work, and had no Man more to stand in Awe of.

The Spaniards, who were in the other Vessels, near the Shore, tho’ they saw the Lights, and heard a confus’d Noise aboard the Admiral, thought it might be on account of some Work belonging to the Galley, or the like. The Chineses sail for China. When, a long time after, they understood how matters went, from those who sav’d themselves by Swimming, they lay still, not being able to redress it. They were but few; had not Strength enough; and the Mischief was done. They stay’d till Morning, and when Day appear’d, perceiv’d that the Galley had set her Shoulder-of-Mutton-Sail, and was standing for China, but they could not follow her; The Wind favouring, she sail’d all along the Coast of the Island, till they got clear of it, the Chineses all the way Celebrating their Victory.

The two Prisoners beg an easy Death, and are promis’d their Lives. The Frier and the Secretary, who were among them, being fully perswaded they would soon kill them, and fearing it would be after some of their cruel Methods, holding up their Hands, begg’d they would allow them some Time to make their Peace with God; and in case they would put them to Death, that it might be by Beheading, and not any other Inhuman Way. One of the Chineses bid them not Fear, for they should not Dye. They all lay’d down their bloody Weapons, and prostrating themselves, return’d Thanks to Heaven in most humble manner, beating Drums, and ringing Bells they carry’d, according to their Custom. The two Christians being then bolted to a Bench in the Galley, during 15 Days their Captivity lasted, were fed with a small Proportion of Rice, boil’d in Water, without Salt, continually looking upon the Blood of their Companions that had been spilt, wherewith all the Deck was Stain’d. They shed Abundance of Tears on it, besides those they hourly let fall with the Apprehension of Death, those Chineses, like faithless false Men, designing to take away their Lives, in some strange manner. They weigh’d, and sailed between the Islands of Mindanao and Luban, towards China, and Coasting along Manila towards Cagayan, some contrary Winds happening to blow, and Calms succeeding, they were much concern’d, fearing, that if the News of The Chineses invoke their Gods. their Treachery reach’d the Philippines, they would send after and overtake them. This Dread made them have recourse to their Gods, and call upon them, offering several sorts of Sacrifices, Perfumes, and Prayers, which the Devil often answer’d in formal Words, by the Mouths of such as were Possessed, whom he Enter’d to that Purpose, for there never wanted two or three such, all the time those Christians were in the Galley. What they saw was, that when least they thought of it, and on a sudden, the Person possessed began to quake, from Head to Foot. The others seeing him in that Condition, said, Some God was coming to Speak to them. Then coming up Some of them possess’d. to him, with Tokens of Respect, they unty’d, and spread abroad his Hair; and stripping him quite naked set him on his Feet, and he presently fell a Dancing to the Noise of some Drum, or Bell, they beat or rung. They put a Cymiter, or Spear into his Hand, and as he danc’d he brandish’d it over all their Heads, with no small danger of hurting them, which they were not the least apprehensive of; alledging, that their God, tho’ he did so, would never hurt them, without they were guilty of some Sin against him.

Before the Devil had possess’d any in the Galley, the Chineses were concerting Christians preserv’d by Means of the Devil. to murder the Christians, believing they were the Occasion, why God did not give them a fair Wind for their Voyage; but that watchful sovereign Providence, without whose Direction the least Accident does not happen, making Use of the Devil himself as an Instrument, prevented it by Means of those very Persons who offended it. The Person possess’d ask’d for Ink and Paper, which being presently brought him, he made certain Characters and confus’d Scrawls, which being expounded by the others in the Galley, they found signify’d, that those two Men were harmless, therefore they should not kill them, which was no small Incouragement to the Prisoners. However this lasted not long, for some others who were possess’d after the first, tormented them cruelly, especially one of them, who was the maddest. He told the Chineses, that if he should happen to hurt those Men, as he brandish’d the Weapon he had in his Hand over them, making Essays, as if he cut and slash’d, then they must kill them immediately; because it would be a certain Sign, that their Gods requir’d it, and that their being in the Ship was the Occasion, why they gave them not a fair Gale. All the Men in the Galley assembled, to behold that Spectacle, and the Person possess’d having for a considerable Space walk’d about the Gang-Way, with extravagant Gestures, went then to the Place where the Religious Man and his Companion were; there growing hellishly inrag’d, he commanded all the rest to stand aside, and being left with only the two Prisoners, began to make hideous Faces and Grimaces at them, Horred practices upon the Prisoners. when getting upon the Table in the mid Part of the Galley, he thence threw his Cymiter at them, with such Fury, that it stuck in the Deck, between their Feet. Seeing he had not hurt nor touch’d them, he ask’d for it again to make a second and third Tryal, sticking it every Time so deep, that the others could scarce draw it out from the Planks. This done, he bid them give him a Partesan, with which he hack’d, hew’d, and thurst, in such frightful and dangerous Manner, that the Chineses themselves were astonish’d. He kept them above an hour in that Dread and Affliction, without daring to stir, or beg for Mercy; believing it would not avail them, but that on the contrary, whatsoever they could say might be prejudicial. Thus having plac’d all their Hopes, and Confidence on that sovereign Lord, who even when he delays does not fail to give Assistance, they call’d upon him, and offer’d themselves up to him in fervent Prayers; particularly the Religious Man, repeating some Psalms and Verses, which his former Devotion, excited by the present Danger, brought into his Mind, and were suitable to that Occasion, and such like Exigencies; by which, as he afterwards said, he receiv’d great Comfort, and Addition of Courage. This sort of miserable Life, and these Torments lasted all or most Days during therein Captivity.

The Chineses land, 820 of them are kill’d. At length, the Chineses perceiving they could not possibly perform the Voyage they desir’d, by Reason the Wind was contrary; they resolv’d to land on the Island of Ilocos, not far from Luzon, at the Port they call Sinay. They being there ashore to Water, the Natives knowing they had murder’d the Governour, laid an Ambush and kill’d twenty of them, and might have destroyed above eighty that had landed, if they had not wanted Courage; because at the very Shout the Men gave, when falling on, they were so daunted, that they all fled several Ways in Confusion, throwing down their Arms, endeavouring to save their Lives, by leaping into the Sea, so to get off in the Boat. The Chineses meeting with this Disaster, and thinking one of their own Men had been the Occasion of it, because he advised them to put into that Port, they resolv’d to seize and put him They drown one of their own Men. to Death. They did as had been resolv’d, and at Night, by unanimous Consent, threw him into the Sea, then weighing their Anchors, they got out of that Harbour, and put into another, three Leagues off, on the same Coast. There the Devil entering into one of them, as he us’d to do, commanded them immediately to return to the Port, where they had sustain’d that Loss of their Friends and Companions, and that they should not depart thence, till they had sacrific’d a Man to him, without appointing which he would have. They immediately obey’d the Command, one of the Chief Chineses making Choice of one of the Christian Indians of the Philippines they had Prisoners, to be Sacrifiz’d, and ty’d his Hands and Feet, stretching them on a Cross, which they rais’d up, and the Christian being bound against the fore-Mast, one of those possess’d by the Devil came up An Indian cruelly Sacrifiz’d. to him in Sight of them all, and playing the part of an Executioner, ripp’d up his Breast, with one of those Daggers they use, making a wound so large, that he thrust in his Hand with ease, and pluck’d out part of his Entrals, whereof, with horrid Fury, he bit a Mouthful, and casting the rest up into the Air, eat what he had in his Mouth, and lick’d his Hands, pleasing himself with the Blood that stuck to them.

They cast him into the Sea. Having committed the Murder, they took the Cross, and him that was on it, and cast it and the Martyr into the Sea, which receiv’d that Body, offer’d in Sacrifize to the Devil, then to be cloath’d in Glory, by him that has provided it for those who suffer for the Confession of the Faith. This dreadful Spectacle struck Horror, and rais’d Emulation in the two Christians, who beheld it with Zeal, and had expected as much before. The Inhuman Sacrifice being over, they put out of the Harbour, and having for some days Coasted the Island with Difficulty; one of them, by command of the Possess’d Person, who had order’d the Sacrifice, with the consent The Secretary and Frier set at Liberty. of them all, set at liberty the Religious Man, the Secretary, and all the Indians they had Prisoners, putting them ashore in the Boat, and then the Chineses stood out to Sea. They endeavour’d to make over to China, but not being able, put into Cochinchina, where the King of Tunquin took all they had, and among the rest two heavy Pieces of Cannon, that had been put aboard for the Expedition of the Moluccos, the King’s Standard, and all the Jewels, Goods, and Money. He suffer’d the Galley to perish on the Coast, and the Chineses dispers’d, flying into several Provinces. Others affirm, that King seiz’d and punish’d them.

Spaniards that escapd came to Manila. The Spaniards that escap’d, went to carry the News to Manila, where some griev’d, and others, who hated the Governour for his Severity, rejoyced; but that ill Will soon vanish’d, and all generally lamented him; more especially when some of the Bodies were found and brought in. Among them were those of the Ensign, John Diaz Guerrero, an old Soldier, and Governour of Cebu; of the Ensign Penalosa, Proprietor of Pila; the great Soldier Sahagun, whose Wife ran roaring about the City; Bodies found. of Captain Castano, newly come over from Spain; of Francis Rodriguez Perulero; of Captain Peter Neyla; of John de Sotomayer; of Simon Fernandez; that of his Sergeant; of Guzman; of the Ensign and Sergeant of the Company brought by Don Philip de Samano, who being sick transferr’d it to Captain John Xuarez Gallinato; and those of Sebastian Ruis and Lewis Velez, these two Merchants, all the rest old Soldiers; whose Funerals renew’d the Sorrow for that dismall Accident.

Rojas chose Governour by the City. This News being brought to Manila, and no Papers of the Governour’s appearing, wherein he nam’d, who was to succeed him, tho’ it was known he had the King’s Order so to do, believing it might be lost in the Galley, among much of the Kings, his own, and private Persons Goods, the City therefore chose the Licentiate Rojas for their Governour, and he was so forty Days. But the Secretary John de Cuellar returning to Manila, in a miserable Condition, with F. Francis de Montilla, gave Notice, that Gomez Perez, before his Departure had appointed his Son Don Lewis to succeed, and that this would be found at the Monastery of S. Augustin, in a Box, Don Lewis das Marinnas Governor. among other Papers, in the Custody of F. James Munnoz. Rojas had already sent Orders to Cebu, for all the People employ’d in the Expedition, to return, as was accordingly done. So that Don Lewis coming, not withstanding some Protestations, he, by Virtue of his Father’s Authority, succeeded him in the Government, till Don Francis Tello came.

Character of Gomez Perez. Such was the End of that Gentleman, whose Actions were valuable in themselves, and the more for the Zeal he did them with. He wanted not for political and martial Virtues, nor for Prudence in both Sorts; but he would not regard Examples; and contrary to what those taught him, durst promise himself to succeed, so that he became confident, if not rash. But his Christian Piety makes Amends for all.

Don Lewis, his Kindred and Friends, would fain have prosecuted the Expedition The Fleet dismiss’d. to the Moluccos, and to this End F. Antony Fernandez came from Tydore; but he succeeded not. The Fleet was dismiss’d, and it was a singular Providence for the Security of the Philippine Islands; for presently after, at the Beginning of the Year 1594, there came thither a great Number of Ships from China, loaded only with Men and Arms, and bringing no Merchandize, as they are wont to do. Those Ships brought seven Mandarines, being some of the chief Viceroys and Governours of the Provinces. It was believ’d, and Arm’d Chineses in the Philippines. prov’d certainly true, that they knowing Gomez Perez went upon that Expedition, to which he took with him all the Spaniards, concluded the Country was left defenceless, and therefore came with a Design to Conquer, or plunder it, which would have been very easy, had they found it as they expected. They went out of their Ships but twice to visit Don Lewis, with great State, and much Attendance. He receiv’d them affectionately, and presented every Mandarine with a gold Chain. They told him, they came by their King’s Order, to pick up the Chineses, who wander’d about those Islands without his Leave; but this was look’d upon as a meer Pretence; because there was no Need, for that Effect, of so many Mandarines, nor such a Number Mandarines visit Don Lewis. of Vessels arm’d and furnish’d for War. The Chineses who murder’d Gomez Perez, were of Chincheo, and therefore Don Lewis, as knowing the certain Criminals, sent his Kinsman Don Ferdinand de Castro, in a Ship, to give the King of China an Account of that Treachery; but his Voyage miscarry’d, and all was left in Suspence.

King of Camboxa demands the promis’d Succour. At this Time Langara, King of Camboxa made Instance for the Succours, and requir’d Don Lewis to perform his Fathers Promise made to him not long before. He therefore, in Pursuance to it, and to the End that those Forces, or some Part of them, might continue in the Church’s Service, since they were provided for that End, in the Design of Ternate, resolv’d to support that King with them.

Camboxa is one of the most fertile of the Indian Regions. It sends Camboxa described. Abundance of Provisions to other Parts, for which Reason it is frequented by Spaniards, Persians, Arabs, and Armenians. The King is a Mahometan; but his Subjects the Gusarats and Banians, follow the Precepts of Pythagoras, perhaps without any Knowledge of him. They are all sharp witted, Opinions of the Natives. and reputed the cunningest Merchants in India. However they are of Opinion, that after Death, Men, Brute Beasts, and all Creatures, receive either Punishment, or Reward; so confus’d a Notion have they of Immortality. The City Camboxa, which gives its Name to all the Country, is also call’d Champa, abounding in the Odoriferous Calambuco Wood, whose Tree call’d Calamba, grows in unknown Regions, and therefore has not been seen standing. The Floods upon those great Rivers bring down Trunks of it, and Lignum Aloes. this is the precious Lignum Aloes. Camboxa produces Corn, Rice, Pease, Butter, and Oyl. There are made in it various Sorts of Cotton Webs, Muslins, Buckrams, Calicoes, white and painted, Dimities, and other curious Manufactures. Pieces exceeding the finest in Holland. They also adorn their Rooms with Carpets; tho’ they are not like those brought out of Persia to Ormuz. They weave others for the common Sort, which they call Bancales, not unlike the Scotch Plads. Nor do they want the Art of Silk-Weaving, for they both weave, and work with the Needle, rich Hangings, Coverings for the low Chairs us’d by the Women of Quality, and for the Indian Litters, or Palanquines, which are made of Ivory, and Tortoise-Shell, and of the same they make Chess-Boards, and Tables to Play, Seal-Rings, and other portable Things. In the Mountains there is found a sort of Christal, extraordinary Product. transparent, whereof they make Beads, little Idols, Bracelets, Necklaces, and other Toys. It abounds in Amethists, Garnets, the Sort of Saphirs call’d Hyacinths, Spinets, Cornelians, Chrysolites, Cats Eyes, properly call’d Acates, all of them precious Stones; There are also those they call Milk, and Blood Stones, pleasant, and medicinal Fruits, Opium, Bangue, Sanders, Alom and Sugar. Indigo is incomparably prepar’d in Camboxa, and thence sent to several Provinces. The living Creatures are the same Asia affords in those Parts, Elephants, Lions, Horses, wild Boars, Beasts. and other fierce Beasts. It is in Ten Degrees of North Latitude. The River Mecon waters all the Kingdom, and in it falls into the Sea; being look’d upon as the greatest in India, carrying so much water in Summer, that it Mecon River. floods, and covers the Fields, like the Nile in Egypt. It joyns another of less Stock, at the Place call’d Chordemuco. This River, for six Months runs backward. The Reason of it is the Extent and Plainness of the Country it runs along. The Southern Breezes choak up the Bar with Sand. The Currents thus damm’d up, swell and rise together, after much Struggling one against the other. The Bar looks to the South-ward, both Waters at first Form a deep Bay, and finding no free Passage out, but being drove by the mighty Violence of the Winds, are forc’d to submit and bend their Course the wrong Way, till a more favourable Season restores them to their natural Course. We see some such like Effects in Spain, where the Tagus falls into the Sea of Portugal, and the Guadalquivir into that of Andaluzia, oppos’d by the superior Force of the Sea Waves, and of the Winds.

About this Time, in the remotest Part of this Country, beyond impenetrable Angon City Discover’d. Woods, not far from the Kingdom of the Laos, was discover’d a City, of above six thousand Houses, now call’d Angon. The Structures, and Streets, all of massy Marble Stones, artificially wrought, and as entire, as if they had been modern Works. The Wall strong, with a Scarp, or Slope within, in such Manner, that they can go up to the Battlements Its Magnificence. every where. Those Battlements all differ one from another, representing sundry Creatures, one represents the Head of an Elephant, another of a Lion, a third of a Tiger, and so proceed in continual Variety. The Ditch, which is also of hew’d Stones, is capable of receiving Ships. Over it is a magnificent Bridge, the Arches of it being supported by stone Giants of a prodigious Height. The Aqueducts, tho’ dry, show no less Grandeur. There are Remains of Gardens, and delightful Places, where the Aqueducts terminate. On one Side of the Town is a Lake above thirty Leagues in Compass. There are Epitaphs, Inscriptions, and Characters not understood. Many Buildings are more sumptuous than the rest, most of them of Alabaster, and Jasper Stone. In all this City, when first discoverred by the Natives, they found no People, nor Beasts, nor any living Creatures, except such as Nature produces out of the Breaches of Ruins. I own I was unwilling to write this, and that I have look’d upon it as an imaginary City of Plato’s Atlantis, and of that his Common-Wealth; but there is no wonderful Thing, or Accident, that is not subject to much Doubt. It is now Inhabited, and our Religious Men, of the Order of St. Augustin and St. Dominick, who have Preach’d in those Parts, do testify the Truth of it. A Person of Reputation for his Learning, conjectures it was the Work of the Emperor Traian; but tho’ he extended the Empire more than his Predecessors, I have not ever Read that he reach’d as far as Camboxa. Were the Histories of the Chineses as well known as ours, they would inform us, why they abandon’d so great a Part of the World; they would explain the Inscriptions on the Buildings, and all the rest that is unknown to the Natives themselves. I know not what to say of so Beautiful a City’s being buried in Oblivion, or not known. It is rather a Subject of Admiration than Reflection.

Three Spanish Ships sent to the Relief of Camboxa. Don Lewis being zealous to bring those Nations into the Bosom of the Church, and their Wealth, and Kings under the Subjection of the Crown of Spain, fitted out three Ships, under the Command of John Xuarez Gallinato, born at Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands, with 120 Spaniards, and some Philippines. They Sail’d from Cebu, but there rose a Storm immediately, which dispers’d the Ships. Gallinato drove on by the Fury of the Winds, arriv’d at Malaca, and the other two at Camboxa. Going up the River, King of Camboxa routed by him of Siam. they were Inform’d, That the King of Sian had defeated him of Camboxa, his Neighbour; who, with the wretched Remains of his Army, fled into the Kingdom of the Laos, a Neighbouring but Inhumane Nation; and that, whilst he was begging Compassion among those obdurate Hearts, the King of Sian had set up Prauncar, Nick-nam’d, Wry Mouth the Traytor, Brother to the vanqush’d Monarch, for King of Camboxa. This Accident did not obstruct the Succours which the Spaniards carry’d under Colour of an Embassy. They came to the City Chordumulo, 80 Leagues distant from the Bar, and leaving 40 Spaniards in the Ships, 40 others went to the Country where the new King was. They made Application to visit him presently, but he would not be seen that Day, tho’ he order’d they should have good Quarters, and be told, he would give them Audience three Days after. But James Veloso and Blase Ruyz, either that they were formerly acquainted Design to murder the Spaniards. with the Country, or some new Subtilty occurring, looking on that delay as suspicious, visiting a beautiful Indian Woman, of the King’s Family, she told them in private, That being admitted into that Tyrants Secrets, he being fond of her, she knew he intended to Murder them all; and that during those three Days he had assign’d them, as it were to Rest, after their Journey, the Men and Means for Executing that Design were to be provided. The Spaniards return’d Thanks for the Intelligence, not without promise of Reward.

Desperat Bravery of the Spaniards. They were not dismay’d at the Danger; but repeating their Thanks to the Indian Woman, for her Intelligence, came to this magnanimous, if it may not be term’d a rash Resolution. They agreed to attack the King’s Palace that same Night, and to withstand the whole Army, if Need were. They prepar’d themselves for that Enterprize, which was above human Strength, set fire to the House where the Powder lay, and the People running to help, or to see the Mischief, the Spaniards, during the Confusion, enter’d the Palace, and being acquainted with the royal Apartments, made through them, till they came to the King’s Person, whom they run thro’, and kill’d They kill the King of Camboxa. after cutting his Guards in Pieces. He defended himself, calling out for Help, but those who came to his Assistance found him bloodless. The Report of this Action alarm’d the other Guards, and then all the City, which contains above thirty thousand Inhabitants, who where all running to Arms; above 14000 Men took up such as Occasion offer’d, and came upon the Spaniards with many war-like Elephants. Our two Commanders drew up Retire before 14000 Indians. their little Body, and retir’d in great Order, always fighting and killing great numbers of their Enemies. The Fight lasted all the Night, with wonderful Bravery, the next Day they got to their Ships, and imbark’d, leaving that Kingdom full of new Divisions.

The second Day after, Gallinato came in, with his Ship. He landed, having Gallinato at Camboxa.been before inform’d of what had happen’d, and thinking he did not perform his Duty, unless he succour’d the Spaniards, when he heard the Drums and Bells, and saw the Streets and Port full of trading People, now in Arms. He gave strict Orders to those that attended him, to behave themselves very modestly, so as to conceal their own Concern, and deceive the People of Camboxa, both by their Looks, and the Sedateness of their Words. The principal Men of Camboxa visited him, in peaceable Manner; whom he treated very courteously. He might have perform’d some great Exploit, but finding his Strength too small for such an Enterprize, and that now Affairs had taken another Turn, and were in a different Posture, he thought fit to be gone. Most of those great Men oppos’d it, promising him the Crown, as being well affected to the Spaniards, and a foreign Government. The great Men offer him the Crown. Hence came the idle Report, that Gallinato was King of Camboxa, which was believ’d by many in Spain, and acted on the Stage with Applause, and good Liking. And it was the Opinion of Persons well acquainted with those Countries, that had Gallinato laid hold of the Opportunity offer’d him, he might then have possess’d himself of Camboxa, and united it to the Crown of Castile.

I have seen Letters of Velloso, and Blase Ruiz, to the Council at Manila, after this Action, wherein they speak to this Effect, and complain that Gallinato should blame what they did. But Gallinato, whose Judgment, and Valour, had been try’d in the greatest Dangers of those Eastern Parts, and many Years before in Flanders, would not suffer himself to be easily The depos’d King’s Son restor’d. led away by popular Affection, and honourably rejecting that Opportunity, sail’d towards Manila. He took in some Refreshment in Cochinchina. Blase Ruiz and James Velloso had landed there before, and went alone by Land to the Kingdom of the Laos, which lies West of Cochinchina, to seek out the depos’d King Langara, and restore him to his Throne. They found he was dead, but had a Son living, who being told how they had kill’d the Usurper, his Uncle and Enemy; he set forward immediately for his Kingdom with Velloso and Ruiz, and 10000 Men, the King of the Laos, contrary to all Expectation furnish’d him. He attack’d Camboxa, where Ruiz and Velloso faithfully stuck to him during the War, and afterwards in his Government. Then he sent another Embassy to the Philippine Island, asking Supplies of Men to quell the Troubles in his Country, and that he and his Subjects might receive the Faith of JESUS CHRIST; promising a considerable Part of his Dominions to the Spaniards, to subsist them. This Embassy came to Manila, when Don Lewis had quitted the Government, and resign’d it up to Don Francis Tello, which gave Occasion to Ternate to grow more settled in its Tyranny.

D. Pedro de Acunna fortifies Carthagena. Don Pedro de Acunna, who govern’d Carthagena in the West-Indies, in this Year 1595, either because it was his natural Inclination, or the Necessity of the Times requiring it, fortify’d the Place with Fascines, Planks, Piles, and Ditches, working at it himself in Person. Thus he oblig’d the Bishop, Clergy and Religious Men, to put their Hands to the Work; the very Ladies of Quality, their Daughters and Maids, did not refuse to follow such an Example. It was wonderful to see with what Expedition and Zeal the Work was brought to Perfection, of such Force is a good Example. Soon after came to Puerto Rico, the Ship call’d Pandorga, or Borgonna, that was Admiral of Tierra Firme, and New Spain, with three Millions in her. The whole under the Care of the General Sancho Pardo.

56 English Sail sent to rob the West-Indies. At this Time there came into the West-Indies a Fleet of 56 Sail, sent by the Queen of England to plunder them, under the Command of John Hawkins and Francis Drake. Captain Peter Tello defended the three Millions so bravely with the Spanish Frigots, that he sav’d the Prize. Hawkins was wounded in the Fight, and dy’d of it before he could come to the Firm Land. Drake, with that Fleet, enter’d Rio de la Hacha and Santa Maria; and being one Night in Sight of Carthagena, took a Frigate belonging to that Coast, by which he was inform’d, how well the Governour had fortifi’d it; therefore making a Compliment of Necessity, he sent Don Pedro a Message by the Men of his Frigot, whom he therefore set at Liberty, saying, He did not attack his Works and City out of Respect to him, and because he honour’d his Valour. The Truth of the Matter was, That Drake call’d together his Captains to consult what was to be done, and they all advis’d him to attack the City, promising to do their utmost, and be answerable for the Success; alledging it ought to be attempted, for being a Place of vast Wealth and Consequence. Only Drake oppos’d it, Drake’s Actions there. strength’ning his Opinion by saying, His Mind did not give him, that the Enterprize could have the Success they would assure him, because they were to have to do with a Knight of Malta, a Batchelor, nothing weakned with Womanish Affection, or the Care of Children; but watchful, and intent upon defending the Place, and so Resolute, that he would dye on the Spot before he would lose it. This Opinion prevail’d, and the English standing in Awe of Don Pedro’s Reputation, went away to the Town of Nombre de Dios, and took it. Drake afterwards designing to do the same at Panama, was disappointed, meeting Opposition by the Way, which had been provided upon the Advice sent by Don Pedro, that the English were moving against that City.

But let us return into Asia. Still the People of Camboxa persisted to ask Succours at the Philipine Islands, upon the usual Promise of Conversion and Vassalage. Don Lewis de las Marinhas undertook the Enterprize in Person, D. Lewis de las Marinhas goes to relieve Camboxa. and at his own Cost. He set out from Manila with Don James Jordan, an Italian, Don Pedro de Figueroa, Peter Villestil, and Ferdinand de los Rios Coronel, Spanish Commanders, the last of them then a Priest, who had also been in the first War of Camboxa. A Storm took them out at Sea, which lasted three Days, with the usual Fury. The Shipwrack was miserable, two Ships were stav’d in Pieces, and the Sea swallow’d up all the Men, Provisions and Ammunition. Of all the Soldiers and Seamen on Board the Vice-Admiral, only five swam ashore on the Coast of China. Some Soldiers were also sav’d out of the Admiral, and among them Captain Ferdinand de los Rios, the Vessel remaining founder’d under the Waves. The other Ship got to Camboxa almost shatter’d to Pieces after Is cast away. many Dangers. She found in the River of Camboxa, eight Juncks of Malayes, and the Spaniards seeing they design’d to carry away some Slaves of the King of Camboxa, to whose Assistance they came, inconsiderately boarded the Malayes, who being well furnish’d with more than ordinary Fire-works, soon burnt our Ship, and most of the Spaniards perish’d in the Spanish Ships burnt. Flames or Smoke. Blaze Ruiz, nor Velloso were not there at that Time, but soon after in the Country, where they were attending the King, being beset in the House where they lodg’d, were barbarously murder’d. Those few Spaniards that escap’d, got into the Kingdom of Sian, and thence to Manila. Heaven was pleas’d this should be the End of all those mighty Preparations made for the Recovery of Ternate, and the other Molucco Islands, whose Tyrant triumph’d at the News, concluding it was the Effect of his good Fortune, and looking on it as a Testimony of the Justice of his Cause, and accordingly he confederated a new with our Enemies.

Don Francisco Tello, a Gentleman of Andaluzia, succeeded Gomez Perez D. Fran. Tello Governor of the Phil. in the Government of the Philippine Islands, and came to Manila in the Year 1596. His first Care was to inform himself of the Condition his Predecessor had left them in, and to supply the Garrisons; because the Emperor of Japan, having in the Year 1595, executed those glorious Martyrdoms, the Memory whereof is still fresh, on the Religious Men of the Order of S. Francis, it gave him Jealousy, that he might have a Design against the Philippine Islands.

The Natives of the Islands of Mindanao, hate our Nation as much as People of Mindanao hate the Spaniards. those of Ternate, and upon any Occasion take Arms against it, as they did in the last, at the said Island of Ternate. For this Reason, Stephen Rodriguez de Figueroa enter’d into Articles with the new Governour. Don Francisco Tello, by Virtue whereof he made War on the People of Mindanao and Ternate, at his own Expence. Stephen Rodriguez was so rich, Stephen Rodriguez makes War on Mindanao, at his own Expence. that he might safely undertake this Affair. He liv’d at Arevalo, a Town on the Island Panaz, one of the Philippines, and set out with some Galleys, Frigots, Champanes, and one Ship, in which there were some Spaniards, and above 1500 of the Painted Natives, call’d Pintados, who were to serve as Pioneers. He arriv’d at the River of Mindanao, on the 20th of April, 1596, and as soon as the Inhabitants of the Town, peculiarly call’d Mindanao, saw such a sightly Company, they fled up the Side of the River, abandoning the Place, to the Fury of the Soldiers. Most of them resorted to the Town of Buyahen, then the Residence of Raxamura, King of Mindanao, who being under Age, had yet no Charge of the Government, which was wholly in the Hands of Silonga, a Soldier, and Commander of Reputation. Our Men following up the River, came to Tampacan, five Leagues from the first. That Place was govern’d by Dinguilibot, Uncle to Monao, the true Proprietor, who was then also young.

These two were naturally well affected to the Spaniards, and therefore, as soon as they discover’d their Arms, came out, in peaceable Manner, to meet, The Natives fly, and he pursues. and offer them their Assistance. They inform’d them, that the Enemies, for they were so to those of Buyahen, had retir’d into the Fort they had there. Stephen Rodriguez hearing the News, and having made much of those Princes, order’d the Fleet to weigh Anchor, and continue the Pursuit, four Leagues farther, still along the River, to Buyahen. Being come thither, he landed his Men on S. Mark’s Day; which was done by the Col. John de Xara, but without any Order, because having had no Engagement at Mindanao, they thought they should have little to do there; as if this, or any other Pretence ought to be an Excuse for not observing Martial Discipline, Stephen Rodriguez would land to rectify that Disorder by his Presence. He went out in such Armour of Proof, that a Shot of a small Drake would scarce pierce it. Only his Head unarm’d, but cover’d with a Cap and Feather, a black carrying his Helmet, and five Soldiers well arm’d attending him. He had scarce march’d fifty Paces, before an Indian, whose Name was Ubal, suddenly rush’d out of a close and topping Thicket, and running Is kill’d. at him, with his Campilan, or Cymiter, clove his Head. Ubal was Brother to Silonga, and Owner of one only Cow there was in all that Country. He kill’d her three Days before this Accident, and inviting his Friends to her, promis’d in that War to kill the most noted Man among the Spaniards. He was as good as his Word, for Stephen Rodriguez dropt down of the Wound, and dy’d three Days after, without answering one Word to the Questions that were made him, tho’ he did it by Signs. The five Spaniards, seeing their Commander so suddenly wounded, that the Slayer, appeared, and the Stroke was heard the same Moment, fell upon Ubal and cut him in Pieces. They acquainted Colonel Xara with their General’s Death; A Fort erected in Mindanao and call’d New Murcia. and he suppressing his Concern, drew back the Men, and threw up a Fortification in the most convenient Place, near the River, where he orderly founded his Colony, to be inhabited by our Men. He appointed Aldermen, and Magistrates, calling it New Murcia, in Honour of the old one in Spain, where he was born. Afterwards, designing to marry Donna Ana de Oseguera, Widow to Stephen Rodriguez, he left Things unsettled, and arriv’d at the Island Luzon about the Beginning of June.

The Governor Don Francis Tello, who was then at the Place call’d El Embocadero, an hundred Leagues from Manila, being inform’d of what had happen’d, and told upon what design the Colonel Xara came, seiz’d him immediately, Cap. Miranda sent to Mindanao. sending Captain Toribio de Miranda, to the War in Mindanao. He found his Men were retire’d to the Port de la Caldera, in the same Island but 36 Leagues from the Mouth of the River. There he maintain’d himself, till about August Don Francis Tello appointed Don John Ronquillo, who was Commander of the Galleys, to succeed in that Post. He also commission’d Peter Arceo Covarrubias, and others, as Captains, to go with him; James Chaves Cannizares, Collonel; Garcia Guerrero, Major; and Christopher Villagra and Cervan Gutierrez, Captains of Foot. Don John Ronquillo came with his Recruit to press upon the Enemy, and did it so effectually, that being distress’d, they crav’d Aid of the King of Ternate, to whom the People of Mindanao pay an Acknowledgement, which is little less, or the same as Tribute. Buizan, Brother to Silonga, went on this Embassy; Ternates Succour Mindanao. and succeeded so well, that the King of Ternate sent with him seven Carcoas, x heavy Pieces of Cannon, two smaller, some Falconets, and six hundred Men. They sailing up the River of Mindanao, design’d to pass on as far as Buyahen; but met with great Difficulties at the Reaches; because at one of them they were threatned by the Spaniards chief Fort, the Galleys, and other Vessels; and the other was a narrow Channel, with a Point running out into it, on which was erected a Bastion, defended by forty Men. From thence our Men had artificially laid a strong wooden Bridge over to the other Side of the River, close to which a Galliot ply’d up and down.

The Ternates seeing both Sides so well Guarded, resolv’d to fortify themselves at the Mouth of the River. They accordingly erected a small They build a Fort on the River. Fort, and put themselves into it, with an equal Number of Mindanao Soldiers. The News hereof mov’d the General Ronquillo to dislodge them; and in Order to it, came down with the Galleys and other Vessels, and 140 Men well appointed. He landed with 116, and the Captains Ruy Gomez Arellano, Garcia Guerrero, Christopher Villagra, and Alonso de Palma, facing the Enemy, at about eighty Paces Distance, on the Bank of the River. The Ternates and Mindanaos had levell’d all the Front of their Fort, and designedly left a Spot of Bushes and Brambles on one Side, where 300 Ternates lay in Ambush, the rest being in the Fort. Both their Parties perceiving how few of our Men came to attack them, were asham’d to be shut up within Fortifications, and lye in Ambush, and accordingly making Show of haughty Threats, came out and met the Spaniards. They found such Opposition, that without the Help of any Stratagem, or other Cause but their natural Valour, at the very first onset, almost all the Ternates were kill’d, Slaughter of Ternates. and the rest fled. Our Men follow’d the Chace, till they made an End of them. The people of Tampaca, who till then had been Neuters, to see which Side Fortune would favour, perceiving she declar’d for us, took up Arms for our Part. Only seventy seven escap’d dangerously wounded, whereof fifty were drown’d in the River leaping, into it in Despair: Of the other twenty seven, only three surviv’d, who carry’d the News to their Only three escape. King. The Spaniards possess’d themselves of the Shipping, Cannon, and Plunder of the vanquish’d, and were encourag’d to prosecute the War.

Don Francis Tello did not neglect other Affairs of this Nature. He understood by his Spyes, and it was bruited abroad, that the Emperor of Japan Warlike preparations in Japan. was gathering a mighty Army, and fitted out a Fleet for it, with Arms and Provisions. It was also known, that he was in Treaty to secure himself against the Chineses, of whom the Japoneses are naturally Jealous. Hence it was inferr’d, that he arm’d to carry the War out of his own Dominions. He had already enter’d into Allyance with the King of Ternate, and other Neighbours, who were Enemies to the Crown of Spain. All these Particulars gave vehement Cause to conjecture, that the Storm threatned the Philippine Islands, and more especially Manila, the Head of them. The Governour strengthned himself, and sent Captain Alderete to discover the whole Truth, under Colour of complimenting that Emperour, and carrying A Spanish Embassy thither. him a Present. The Embassador set out for Japan in July, and at the same Time Don Francisco dispatch’d the Galeon S. Philip for New Spain, with Advice of those Reports. These two Ships, viz. that Alderete went in, and the S. Philip, were together in Japan, which the Natives were jealous of. Alderete got full Information of the Strength and Designs of the Japoneses, and his Industry was of Use, for the taking of right Measures in Manila, and to prevent their fearing without Cause. He brought back another noble Present to the Governour; and both Sides stood upon their Guard, to be ready upon all Occasions.

Sovereign Court at Manila. In the Year 1598, the sovereign Court was again erected at Manila, King Philip prudently conferring Dignity on that Province. It was compos’d of the Iudges Zambrano, Mezcoa, Tellez de Almazan, and the Kings Attorney Jerome Salazar, y Salcedo. That great King never allow’d of any Intermission in his weighty Cares, which extended to all the known Parts of the World; having a watchful Eye upon the Designs of other Princes, whether well, or ill affected to the Propagation of the Gospel, which was his main Design. Therefore, about this Time, he made Haste to rid himself of his neighbouring Enemies, that he might have Leasure to attend the remotest Rebels against the Church and his Monarchy. And in Respect that as Peace between France & Spain. Age came on, its Distempers grew heavier, he concluded a Peace with France, which was proclaim’d at Madrid, with Martial Solemnity, after he had withdrawn himself to the Monastery of S. Laurence, at the Escurial, K. Philip the 2d dies. a Work of his Piety and Magnificence, where he dy’d on the thirteenth of September 1598, with singular Tokens of Sanctity. He frequented the Sacrament of Confession, receiv’d the divine Viaticum, and extreme Unction, the last Remedy for temporal, and eternal Health. His Death was in all Respects answerable to the wonderful Course of his Life.

K. Philip the 3d. King Philip the Third, our sovereign Lord, succeeded him, having been before sworn in all his Kingdoms, who, amidst the Tears and Funeral Solemnities, Commanded the Will to be open’d, and what his Father had order’d to be fulfill’d. His Instructions, and the Mysteries of State, whereof he was so great a Master, and which he communicated to his Son till the last Gasp, produc’d the Peace which attended his most happy Succession, which was his Due by Natural Right, the Law of Nations, and his own innate Virtues; the general Submission of his Subjects, and the Fidelity of the Armies that serv’d in the Northern Provinces in Italy, Africk, Asia, the Indies, and in Garrisons, were a Curb to other Nations. Many of them presented the new King with Protestations of Loyalty, before they had receiv’d Letters and Advice of his being upon the Throne. The same Unanimity was found in the Fleet, and Naval Power, wherein the Treasures and Commodities are transported; a rare Tranquility upon the Change of Princes. The Roman Legions in Germany, and Illyricum, did not show such Respect to Tyberius, after the Death of Augustus. Greatness of the Spanish Monarchy. And tho’ the Spanish Monarchy is of so great an Extent, that it borders on the unknown World, and it is never Night in all Parts of it, because the Sun encompasses and continually displays his Light over it, yet it obey’d without any Commotion, or rather with Pride, as if it knew and were sensible of the new Hand that took up the Reins of Government. Excellent Princes have seldom fail’d to employ extraordinary Ministers about their Persons, to manage and sustain the Burden their Fortune lays upon their Shoulders; so Alexander the Great had Hephestion; the two Scipios, the two Lelij; Augustus Cæsar, Marcus Agrippa; the Princes of the August House of Austria, other Persons of singular Virtue; for all moral Wisdom, and Experience it self teaches us, that the Difficulties of weighty Affairs are not to be duly manag’d, and surmounted, by any but Persons of a more than ordinary Capacity; because Nature has not left any of its Works destitute of a proportionable Ministry. And considering, that it is of great Importance to the publick Welfare, to contrive, that what is necessary for the Use and Commerce of Mankind may appear eminent in Dignity, for the strengthning of the common Advantage with Authority: The King, I say, following those ancient Examples, made Choice of Don Francisco de Rojas y Sandoval, then Marques of Denia, and since first Duke of Lerma, a most Duke of Lerma Prime Minister. able Minister, privately to consult with him about fundamental Matters and Concerns, for which he had been prepar’d with singular Affection in those Times: Besides the great Antiquity of his Family, which has ally’d him to all the noblest of the Grandees of Spain, all Men own him endow’d with the necessary Virtues, that belong to a Person in so great a Post; which shine through that pleasing Gravity of his Countenance, with a stay’d Gayity that testifies his Capacity, and provokes Respect at the same Time that it gains Affections. He constituted him the first of his Council of State, and all the Orders for Peace and War began to run through his Hands. All the Opinions of Councels, which he found seal’d, for King Philip the 2d to give his Decision thereupon, he restor’d, without opening them, to the Presidents of the said Councels they came from, being, perhaps, calculated out of Respect, that they might again debate upon them with more Liberty, and send them back enlarg’d or reform’d.

Heaven was now hastening the Reduction of the Molucco Islands, and the Neglect of the Moluccos in Spain. punishing the Persecution of the faithfull, tho the Tyrants appear’d never so haughty; however the Talk of it was discontinu’d for some Time; because the Enterprize was to be concerted, and carry’d on in the Philippine Islands, and to be resolv’d on, and encourag’d in the supreme Council of the Indies, and it was requisite that the President and Councellors should be well affected to the Cause, which had then no Body to support it, as being despair’d of by Reason of so many unfortunate Attempts: and therefore the Papers of Reflections, and Informations relating to it, lay by, forgotten, in Heaps. This was the Posture of those Affairs till Providence dispos’d the Means for bringing it about, that a Matter which was difficult on so many several Accounts, might fall into the Hands of a Sovereign, who being well affected, might with special Zeal bring it to Perfection.

No Body now disturb’d the King of Ternate. The English settled on his Lands, and Trade enrich’d the Sovereign and the Subjects. He, tho’ he had many Sons, and the Prince his Successor was of Age to bear Arms, did not cease equally to increase his Wives and Concubines. Lust was never circumscrib’d by any Laws among those People. The Relations of curious Persons inform us, That among the rest of this Kings Wives, there was Queen of Ternate in Love with the Kings Son. one very young, and singular for Beauty, with whom the Prince her Son-in-Law, whose Name was Gariolano fell in Love, and she rejected not his Courtship tho’ she was Wife to his Father: But that Nearness of Blood secur’d their Familiarity, and under the Shelter, and Cover of it, she admitted both Father and Son.

Sangiack of Sabubu Father to her. This Queen was Daughter to the Sangiack of Sabubu, a potent Prince in the great Island Batochina, who came to Ternate, upon some slight Occasion. He being lodged in the Palace, and entertain’d as a Father, and Father-in-Law, easily saw into the Incestuous Life of his Daughter. He resolv’d to be thoroughly convinc’d, yet concealing his Jealousy from both the Lovers, he was satisfy’d of the Truth, learnt who were the Parties privy to it, abhorr’d the Baseness, and condemn’d his own Blood. He pretended one day he would Dine in private, and sent only for his Daughter; who being free He Poisons her. from all Jealousy or Suspition, swallow’d a Poison, which soon took away her Life, in that Food which she us’d most to delight in. Endeavours were us’d to help the unhappy Queen, and compose the Father; but he angrily obstructing that last act of Compassion, put away the Physitians, and Women, and being left alone with the King, who, upon hearing the News, was come to give his Assistance, said, This Woman, whom Nature gave to me for a Daughter, and I to you for a Wife, has, with her Life, satisfy’d a Debt she had contracted by her inordinate Passions. Do not Lament her, or believe she dy’d of any Natural Distemper. I killd her, taking the Revenge off your Hands. The Prince, your Son, had a Love Intrigue with her? Being in your House I had full Proof of it, and not being able to endure, that my Blood should wrong you, I could lay aside all Fatherly Affection, and take away the Stain that on my Side is laid upon the Law of Nature, and your Honour. I have honourably finish’d the first Part of this Example. Now, if you think your self wrong’d by your Son, he is in your Power, and I have no Right to deliver him up to you, as I do this false Body. It lies upon you to finish this Work upon the Offender, for I have perform’d all that was my Duty in giving you this Information, and depriving my self of the Daughter I lov’d best.

The King was astonish’d, without knowing how to return Thanks, or perform any other Act becoming a King; and having lamented the Misfortune for some time, order’d Prince Gariolano to be secur’d; but he, who was no less belov’d by the Guards than his Father, Guessing at the Consequences, The Prince Flies. which might certainly be deduc’d from the Queens violent Death, sparing no Horse-flesh, made to the Sea-Port, where he withdrew, with some of his Relations, from his Fathers Presence and Anger, till it naturally cool’d. It happen’d as he expected, for he was appeased before a Year expir’d, and the Is Restor’d to Favour. Prince was restor’d to his Favour; the King then making a Jest of the Stains of his Honour, and saying, He well knew his ill Luck in Wives and Concubines. But what Laws does he observe, who is guided by his Appetite? And how can he weigh the Duties of Honour, who Thinks that only the common Actions of the Sense have any solid being?

The End of the Sixth Book.

THE
HISTORY
OF THE
Discovery and Conquest
OF THE
Molucco and Philippine Islands, &c.

BOOK VII.

The Governour Don Francis Tello, to attend other Neighbouring D. Francis Tello neglects the Moluccos. Provinces, where greater Commotions were threatned, turn’d his Arms that Way; sending some inconsiderable Part, at several Times to the Moluccos; for he never went seriously about recovering those Islands, either because he apprehended, or had Intelligence of Dangers threatned by the haughty Japoneses, Mindanaos, and Chineses, or that he would not tread in the Track of those who ruin’d themselves in the Expeditions against Ternate. Yet our Men fought that Nation in other Parts; for being the most Warlike, and averse to the very Name of Spaniards, it never let pass any Opportunity of doing them Harm.

We have already mention’d the first coming of the English into those Seas, and the Care that was taken to obliterate the Example set by their Voyage, by fortifying the Streights of Magellan. It could not be effected, nor did our Fleet succeed in punishing, as was intended, those who had the Boldness to attempt that unthought-of Passage. Since then, the Hollanders Dutch at the Moluccos. and Zealanders, supported by Rebellion and Disobedience, have sail’d into India, possess’d themselves of strong Holds, and erected Factories, transporting the Drugs, Precious Stones and Silks of Asia; and what is worse, possessing themselves of several Places, and rending the Spanish Monarchy. They have made several Voyages. What Island have they not pry’d into? What Barbarous Nation have they not encourag’d to Rebellion and Tyranny; especially since Maurice of Nassau is possess’d of those Provinces, by the Title of Governour.

Philippines fill’d with Chineses. The Philippine Islands were now appointed for the Place of Arms, considering the great Delays Experience had shown there were towards Recovering of the Molucco Islands. In the mean while, notwithstanding that Don Francis Tello was warn’d, how pernicious Inhabitants he was like to have in the Sangleyes, or Chineses, by whom the Islands of his Province began to be much peopled and fill’d, yet he allow’d them greater Liberty than was convenient; and the Municipal Laws which provided against this Disorder being forgotten or contemn’d, in a very short Time there were additional Towns of Chineses, Chincheos, and other such like Monsters, who were no better than Pyrates, or Incendiaries in that Country, which ought to have taken sufficient Warning by, and been well provided on Account of past Accidents, to shut up all Passages against such Enemy Nations. Don Francisco excus’d their Resort, alledging, That they imported Abundance of Provisions and Merchandise, which is what usually enriches all Places; That no Men have such a consummate Mechanick Genius as they; That they are more assiduous and constant at the Works and Buildings than the Natives of the Philippines. He said, That all the Jealousy generally conceiv’d of them vanishes, if the Governour administers Justice impartially, and permits no private Cabals. All these are, or appear’d to be frivolous Reasons, without any Force; and the admitting of such an Inundation of those People, prov’d very dangerous, as may be seen in the Sequel of this Work, by what happen’d to the Governour Gomez Perez. It was a particular Providence of Heaven, that other Nations did not go about to League with this, or the Dutch, who have so strongly fix’d themselves in the Archipelago; for they might, without much Difficulty, have given us more Trouble than has been occasion’d by the Rebellion of the Kings of the Moluccos; to whose Country, and all others in India, great Fleets of Dutch resort, ever since the Year 1585, whereof Dutch Writers give an Account, and lay down in Cuts, even the smallest Plants they produce.

It does not belong to us to give an Account of the English, Dutch, or other Nations of India and Asia, or their Expeditions and Voyages; but only such as relate to the Conquest of Ternate and the Molucco Islands, or may have some Dependance on this Subject; but be it known, once for all, that every Year, some Northern Fleets appear’d, coming either thro’ New Streights, still unknown to our Discoverers, or those before frequented and laid down. But before we enter upon this Relation, it seems requisite to say something of Holland, the Head of the Neighbouring Islands, as that which is become most outrageous in India, and most covets the Account of Holland. Moluccos. The province of Holland is almost on all Sides encompass’d by the Sea, and the Ports of the Maese and Rhine, for about 60 Leagues in Compass. Within it are contain’d 29 wall’d Towns, whose Names and Situation does not belong to us to speak of, nor of those of Zealand, or the other Provinces subject to them. The Curious may read Lambert, Hortensius, and Montesortius. The Natives are descended from the Ancient Catti; and forasmuch as Erasmus of Rotterdam, which is in Holland, describes it in his Chiliades, we will abridge what he there delivers at large, out of Affection to his Country. The Learned, say he, agree, and it is a probable Conjecture, that the Island Tacitus mentions, lying from Tacitus l. 20. the Rhine to the Ocean, is that we call Holland; which I am oblig’d to Honour, as owing my first Breath to it; and would to God we could honour it as it deserves. Martial charges it with being rude, or unpolished; and Lucan with Cruelty. Either these Things do not belong to us, but to our Ancestors, or we may value our selves upon them both. What Nation is now known, whose first Fathers were not more uncouth than their Posterity? Or when was Rome more highly commended, than when its People knew no other Arts but Tillage and Warfare? Erasmus spends Time in proving, that it is the Nature of Holland, not to relish Martial’s Wit; and that this is not the Effect of Rudeness, but a Gravity worthy Imitation. Then he makes an Exclamation, saying, Would to God all Christians had Dutch Ears! And that if still any one shall contend, the Nation is in the Wrong, in having stopp’d theirs to all Poetical Delights and Allurements, and arm’d it self against them; the Dutch valu’d themselves upon being comprehended in that Reflection, which did not displease the Ancient Sabines, the Perfect Lacedemonians, and the Severe Catos. Lucan call’d the Batavi, that is the Dutch, Cruel, as Virgil did the Romans, Vehement. Erasmus adds, That the Customs of these Nations Erasmus of the Manners of Hollanders. are Familiar, inclining to Meekness and Benignity, and not to Fierceness; because Nature endow’d them with a sincere Disposition, free from Fraud and Double-Dealing, and did not make them subject to extraordinary Vices, except the Love of Pleasure, and Excess in Entertainments. This is caus’d by the Multitude of Beauties, which are Incentives, by the several Sea-Ports on the Ocean, the Mouths of the two Rivers, Rhine and Maese; the perpetual Felicity of the Soil, water’d by other Navigable Rivers; and the Fish and Foul in the Ponds and Woods. No Province of so small a Compass, contains so many Cities of a considerable Magnitude, and so Populous, excellently govern’d; so full of Commodities, Arts and Trade. It abounds in Men indifferently learn’d. Erasmus himself, in Conclusion, owns that none of them arrives to singular Erudition. This Account, which in all that is natural must be own’d not to exceed, affords Arguments to condemn and convince the Author of it, and the Nation it self. All that Part of the World where Religion and Politeness flourish, is acquainted with the Diversity of Opinions all those Nations espouse, of Protestants, Puritans, Calvinists, these the most Numerous; Huguenots, Lutherans, and all other Sorts, too long to enumerate, and not to our Purpose. Since Erasmus confesses that his Country does not produce any Persons of eminent Learning, why do they take upon them to decide Controversies in Religion? Why do they incroach upon Councils? If they are of such an excellent Disposition, and have such a modest Genius, The Authors Reflections on them. Why do they cast off that Piety, whereof there are such ancient Testimonies in our first Fathers, so much honour’d by the primitive Charity of the true Church? It is true, as Erasmus says, that they are of a kind Temper, but Tenacious of whatsoever they once espouse; the same moves us to pity them the more, for the Difficulty of dealing with Positiveness in Minds that are not given to change. Let no Man believe but that under that seeming Meekness in Behaviour, the highest Degree of Pride lies A Spanish Author cannot forbear these Reflections. couch’d. What greater Pride than to scoff at the most ancient Church? At its Apostolical Traditions? At her universal Agreement? At the Miracles God has wrought, to approve the Catholick Doctrine? And what Error can be more inexcusable, than to follow the New Opinions of unlearned and vicious Men, such as the Arch-Hereticks were; and to live under a Necessity of not laying down their seditious Arms only to defend Impiety grounded on Ignorance, and the Extravagancies of their Passions? What House is there in those Cities which Erasmus extols, wherein all the Inhabitants profess and follow the same Way of spiritual Salvation? When the Father is a Calvinist, the Mother is often a Huguenot, the Son a Lutheran, the Servant a Hussite, and the Daughter a Protestant. All the Family is divided, or rather every particular Person’s Soul is so, and at best doubts of all. Wherein does this differ from Atheism? It is positive Atheism. This Division, unworthy of wild Beasts, is the Occasion, and a Sort of Mathematical Necessity, that these People cannot be united among themselves in true Peace. For those Things are the same to one See the latter part of the Preface. another, that they are to a Third; so that almost all these having different Notions, as to God, they cannot of Necessity be united among themselves, as differing in the most essential Part, which is the having an uniform Notion of God in Religion. Let no Man believe, that because they are not at War among themselves, it is Love that is the Occasion of it. The Ground of their false Tranquility is to be call’d a Cessation, and not Peace. These are the People who have unhing’d Loyalty and the Christian Religion, before settled in the Islands, and remotest Parts of Asia, making Excursions from their own Country, as far as China, their raging Avarice being grounded on the Advice given them by the Queen of England, and on Malice, because King Philip the IId had shut up the other Ports of his Kingdoms against them; so to endeavour to reduce them to the Truth and Submission, by taking from them the Advantages of Trade.

Dutch first sail to the Moluccos. The first Dutch Fleet that came to the Molucco Islands, after the English, in the Year 1598, shall be here spoken of. Some prime Men, for the Sake of their Country, as they said, and to gain Reputation, met in Holland and Zealand, and fitted out six Ships and two Brigantines, to sail into India. The first Ship they call’d the Maurice, the Admiral in her being Jacob Cornelius Neck, born at Roterdam, and the Master Gonaert Jansk; the second was the Amsterdam, and in her the Vice-Admiral Vibrant Darkik; the other Ships were the Holland, the Zealand, the Guelder, and the Utrecht; The bigger Brigantine the Friezland, and the smaller the Overissel. They carry’d 160 Soldiers, besides Mariners, and saild from Roterdam on the 13th of March. Off from Sluys, on the 4th of April, they had such a dreadful Storm, as might have discourag’d them from Proceeding, and the Ship the Holland was almost disabled; but still they were drove on by the Weather to the Texel, and thence to Debenter, and in Conclusion they got into the Ocean. They met another Ship returning to the Low Countries, which presented them with 10000 Oranges, and having distributed them among the Men, they made a general Rejoycing, for the baptizing of 25 Men, aboard the Ship the Guelder, on the 10th of May. Barrels must be a Mistake. On the 11th they anchor’d at Barrels, and on the 15th at the Island Madera, and again on the 17th at the Canaries, Gomera, and Palma, passing by those of Sal and Santiago, which are those of Cabo Verde, they furl’d all their Sails, and drove in a Storm, in 29 Degrees Latitude. On the first of June they took a Sea Tortoise which weigh’d 143 Pounds. On the 15th of the same Month, Gerrit Jans, either provok’d by Wine or a worse Spirit, cast himself into the Sea, from the highest Part of the greater Brigantine. The next Day, aboard the Ship Guelder, in which the new baptised Men were, they saw a large flying-Fish, which clapping too its Wings, Fell into the said Ship; but they saw the same Sort of Fishes fall upon their Vessels at other Times. On the Eighth they cross’d the Line, and began to distribute a Pot of Wine to every six Men; but on the 25th of the same Month, for Joy of having pass’d the Ridges of Rocks before Brazil, which run to the Southward in 18 Degrees of South Latitude, they allow’d three Pots to every seven Men. Such a thick Fog fell that they lost Sight of the smaller Brigantine; the Zealand soon found her again, and discover’d many Cranes standing on the Tops of the Reeds, or Canes, that grew out Tall and of an equal Height above the Water. On the 24th of July, they came to an Anchor at the Cape of Good Hope, whence they sail’d again on the 15th of August with Stormy Weather, all the eight Vessels together, the Sea there boiling up as a Pot does upon The Sea seems to boil up. the Fire. This Motion, like boiling, was seen for about a Musket Shot in Length, and the Breadth of a Ship, and all this Space was cover’d thick with Weeds, which they pass’d over by main Force, without any Danger.

Madagascar. On the 24th they reach’d the Island of Madagascar, or of S. Laurence, and saw abundance of Whales. Here the plentiful Distribution of Wine ceas’d, and it began to be given out more sparingly, to lament by this Abstinence, the Death of John Pomer, a skilful Sailor. On the 27th they pass’d Cape S. Sebastian, and on the 30th Cape S. Julian. On the 4th of September, it was debated whether they should make for the Island of Banda, or put into the Bay of Anton Gill. They came to no Resolution at that Time, tho’ they afterwards arriv’d separately at Banda, and at several Times. On the 17th they discover’d, at a great Distance, the Island of Cerne, by others call’d the Isle of Swans, which is high and mountainous, and for Joy of the Water they expected to take in there, they gave every Man three Cups of Wine. Before that, the Vice-Admiral went ashore with five Men, in another little Island, and taking a View of it, found a Noble Spacious Harbour, well land-lock’d, into which a Rivulet of fresh They land in a small Island. Water fell. They put in and refitted their shatter’d Vessels, finding 14 Fathom Water. They had not Landed in four Months, and therefore in Thanksgiving, and because it was then Fair Time in Holland, they made a Sort of Chappel; on the Bodies of Trees, and covering it with Leaves, preach’d there twice a Day, in Honour of the Fair. They eat Abundance of Fowl, which they could almost take with their Hands, and drank Wine more plentifully. A Native of Madagascar, who came along with them, and had been taken in a former Voyage, was, by the Instruction of those Sermons, made a Christian, and baptiz’d, taking the Name of Laurence. They found no Inhabitants in the Island though it was Delightful.

Clear Water in the Sea. On the 28th and 29th, they observ’d they were upon a very Christalline Water, without any other Tokens of their being near Land, and those same Days at Noon, they had the Sun in the Zenith, directly over their Heads, which had happen’d to them at other Times. Here a Storm separated the Ships; the Maurice, which was Admiral, by them in Latin call’d Prætoria, the Holland, and the Overissel, tho’ they endeavour’d to Cerne Island. make Java, were drove by Stress of Weather to Banda; and the other five to the Island Cerne, or of Swans, leaving six other smaller on the Right Hand. They enter’d the Port with ten Fathom Water, between two Mountains, which contract the Mouth of it. The Situation of it is in 21 Degrees of South Latitude, and is five Leagues in Compass. The Port is Spacious enough to contain 50 Ships, and shelter’d against all Winds. They were so well pleas’d with the Island, that they chang’d its ancient Name of Cerne, or of Swans, for that of Maurice, in Honour of Count Maurice of Nassau, Bastard Son to the Prince of Orange, so well known in our Days. Discoverers were sent about it, and return’d without finding any humane Track, nor Signs of any Habitation. They had a doubtful Tame Birds and Beasts. Proof hereof in the Birds and Beasts; for they ran into their Hands and alighted on their Heads, as they might have done on the Branches of Trees, or had they been bred Tame; which Boldness proceeded either from their having never seen Men, or being grown very familiar with them. Strange Bats. Among the rest, there are Bats, which have Heads as big, and like Apes, and these sleep considerable Numbers of them together, and hanging on the Trees, with their Legs and Wings extended. The Air and Soil are so healthy and fit to be inhabited, that as soon as the Sick were landed, they recovered. The Land is high and mountainous, full of Woods, and not being inhabited, there are no Tracts or Paths through them. There Ebony. is an infinite Quantity of Ebony Trees, as black as Pitch, and as smooth as Ivory; the Trunks being cover’d with a rough Bark, preserve the Body solid. There are other Plants, whose Trunks are Red, and others Pale as Wax; delicious Coco-Nuts, vast Numbers of Palm-Trees, and some of them of such Sort, that one of their Leaves covers all a Man’s Body, and defends it against the Rain. They spread their Nets, and among the other Monstrous Thornback. Multitude of Fishes, took a Thornback so large, that it afforded two Meals Tortoises. for all the Men in the Ships. They saw Land Tortoises, so big, that one of them walk’d with four Soldiers sitting on its Back; and ten of them din’d upon the Shell of another, as if it had been a round Table. In a very short Time they kill’d Abundance of Turtle-Doves, and another Sort of Penguins. white Birds, bigger than our Swans, but as round as a Ball, and have only two or three curl’d Feathers in the Tail. There were so many blew Parrots, that they might have loaded their Ships with them. Indian Crows, twice as big as the European, of three several colour’d Feathers.

They erected Forges, dress’d all their Tools, and built another Vessel, to supply the Place of the Utrecht, which with the other two, had directed her Course for Madagascar. They again took a View of their Maurice Island, and towards the Inland Part of it, tho’ there were no Signs of any Wax found with Greek Characters. humane Habitation, found about three hundred Pounds weight of Wax, on which there were plain Greek Letters and Characters. They also saw Oars, Nets, and Pieces of Timber, being the Wreck of Ships. The Vice-Admiral, providing a smooth square Board, carv’d on it the Arms of Holland, Zealand, and Amsterdam, and nail’d it on the Top of a Tree, as a Memorial of his being there, and giving the Name of MAURICE to the island, with this Inscription, which being in Spanish, denotes their Hatred to the Ancient Faith of our Nation, and being couch’d in one Line over their Arms, was, THE REFORM’D CHRISTIANS. Then they plow’d up a large Field, and sow’d it with Wheat, and other European Grain; turning lose some Hens, to see what Improvement they should find another Time. They again, for some Days, visited the Hills and Plains, and found no Track of Man.

Whilst these refresh’d themselves at the Island Cerne, or of Swans, being fourteen Days, the other three Ships arriv’d at S. Mary’s, a barren Island, S. Mary Island. tho’ some Orange and Lemon Trees grow in it, as also Sugar Canes, and there are Hens. About it, and in Sight of Land, there are monstrous Whales. They landed, but not without Opposition from the Natives, with whom they fought, and took their King; but he was easily ransom’d, a Strange Ransom for a King. Cow and a Calf being given them in Exchange for him. They saw the Manner of the Whale Fishery, which is very easy there. The Indians make up close to them in their Canoes, and stick them with a Harping-Iron they dart, being ty’d to Ropes made of the Barks of Trees. They stor’d their Ship with their Flesh and Oil, and some Oranges, and went over to the Bay of Anton Gil, where the Madagascar Indian, would not stay, as he had desired before, being now well affected to the Habit and Drunkenness of his Companions. They were toss’d backwards and forwards for five Days, between certain Islands, destitute of Provisions, and unsafe, by Reason they were in War among themselves.

They set forward with a fair Gale towards Java, and on the 26th of December, 1598, arriv’d at Banda, which is eight Leagues from Amboina. Banda Island. This Island is shap’d like a Horse-shooe, and lies in four Degrees of South Latitude. It is most fruitful, with little or no Improvement, in Nutmegs, and their precious Mace; as also Provisions and Medicines for Men, beyond all other Parts of the known World. It is divided into three Parts, each of them three Leagues in Compass. The Capital City is called Nera. As soon as they arriv’d, they contracted Friendship with the Islanders; tho’ a foreign Ship, to secure the Trade to herself, gave them to understand, that the Dutch were certain Pirates who fled the Year before, and had lain conceal’d at Sea, to come again and rob the Island, and therefore they did not fully credit them. This Notion was back’d by Trading Portugueses, and others settled there; but the Dutch sending their Abdol, that is the Indian Interpreter, with some Soldiers, and Gifts to present the King, according to the Custom of Merchants that come into his Country, they before him clear’d that Imputation, and defended their Innocence. The King was an Infant, and govern’d by his Cephates, that The Dutch settle Trade there. is his Vice-Roy, Tutor, or Protector, who set all right. They gave the King the Present before him, which he receiv’d very graciously. It consisted of certain valuable gilt Vessels, admirably ingrav’d, Christal Glasses, Looking-Glasses in gilt Frames, and Pieces of Velvet and Taffety. They deliver’d him Letters and Commissions of the States of Holland, Zealand, and Count Maurice, with their Seals hanging to them in Form. All was accepted, and they lay down flat on the Ground to receive and read the Letters, with profound Reverence. The King promis’d to answer them, as he did, and immediately gave leave to Trade; whereupon the Dutch built Factories in the Island. They then expos’d in publick Shops great Store of Arms, Silks, Linnen and Cloth; as did the Natives their Spice, China Ware, and Pearls, and other Commodities the Neighbouring Islanders and Chineses bring hither to barter, and sell to one another. Five All their Ships meet again. Weeks after, the other three Ships arriv’d, and the people of the City hearing the Discharges of the Cannon, and seeing the Auncients spread abroad, for Joy of the Ships meeting again, came down to the Port, and encompass’d the Ships in Boats, offering them Plenty of Fowl, Eggs, Coco Nuts, Bananas, Sugar-Canes, and Cakes made of Rice-Flower. This dainty Feeding continu’d every Day, and they gave them a Weeks Provision for a Dutch Man for one Pewter Spoon. However they rais’d the Price of Pepper; but they pay’d for all with Pins and Needles, Knives, Spoons, Looking-Glasses, and little Tabors; and with those same Commodities, they purchas’d more valuable Goods at Sumatra, as also Provisions; when four of these eight Ships return’d Homewards, the others sailing for Ternate and the Moluccos.

The greatest Quantity, and best Commodity they took in here, was of The Nutmeg Tree. are few and weak; but in Banda there is a plentiful Crop, and they have much more Virtue. Nature has cloath’d its Mountains and Plains, with Woods and Groves of these Plants. They are like the European Pear-Trees, and their Fruit resembles Pairs, or rather in Roundness the Melocotones. When the Nutmegs blosom, they spread a cordial Fragrancy; by degrees they lose their Native Green, which is original in all Vegetables; and then succeeds a Blew, intermix’d with Grey, Cherry-Colour, and a pale Gold Colour, as we see in the Rainbow, tho’ not in that regular Division, but in Spots like the Jaspar Stone. Infinite Numbers of Parrots, and other birds of various Plumage, most delightful to behold, come to sit upon the Branches, attracted by the sweet Odour. The Nuts, when dry, cast off the Shell it grows cover’d with, and is the Mace, within which is a white Kernel, not so sharp in Taste as the Nut, and when dry is converted into its Substance. Of this Mace, which is hot and dry in the second Degree, and within the third, the Bandeses make a most Oil of Nutmeg. precious Oil to cure all Distempers in the Nerves, and Aches caus’d by cold. Of these Nuts they choose the freshest, weightiest, fattest, juiciest, Virtues of Nutmeg. and without any Hole. With them they cure, or correct stinking Breath, clear the Eyes, comfort the Stomach, Liver, and Spleen, and digest Meat. They are a Remedy against many other Distempers, and serve to add outward Lustre to the Face. The Bandeses call the Mace of their Aromatick Nuts, Buna Pala. It was not known to the Greeks nor to Pliny, according to Averrois; tho’ Serapion, whether the true, or the suppositious, when he describes it, alledges Gallen’s Authority. It is true, the Chrisabolans he treated of, agree well enough with the Nutmegs in Colour and Shape.

The Javaneses, Chineses, and Natives of the Moluccos resort to the City Mora, to barter for this precious Fruit, and load their Ships with it; and Merchants way of living at Banda. this is the Trade of that People, as is that of Clove to Ternate, Tydore, and the other Moluccos. The Merchants arriving in this Island, many of them contribute to make up a Sum, wherewith they purchase a Woman, to dress their Meat, and attend them. The Dutch did so from this first Time. When they go away she is left Free, till they return the next Year; so that her Slavery commences with the Return of her Masters, and their Absence gives it an Intermission. Some of the Natives are Idolaters; but the greater Part Mahometans, and so superstitious, that the very Soldiers do not mount the Guard, till they have pray’d in the Mosques, so loud, that all Religion of Banda. the Neighbourhood can hear them. Nor must any Man go into them without washing his Feet, in great Vessels of Water, provided at the Door, by the publick. Their Prayers consist in these Words, Estagfer Ai’lah Estagfer Al’lah, Asgiv’d Ai’lahe, Asgiv’d Al’lahe, La Il’lahe Inla Ai’lah, Mu.amed resul At’lahi. When they utter these last Words, they stroke their Faces with their Hands, a Ceremony denoting much Devotion. The Words in English are; Pardon O God, Pardon O God. I prostrate my self to God. I prostrate my self to God. There is no other God but God, and Mahomet his Messenger: By these Words, There is no other God but God, they deny the eneffable Mystery of the most blessed Trinity. Then they proceed to several Blasphemies. They say other Prayers, at which they scarce move their lips; when they do this they stand three and three upon a Mat, lifting up their Eyes to Heaven three Times, and bowing down their Heads to the Ground. The Dutch Author, who gives this Account, does not mention any other Religion in this Island, nor in any of the others their Fleets touch’d at; tho’ it is so well known, that the Catholick Faith of our Lord Jesus Christ has been preach’d many Years before, throughout them all, with the Glory of Martyrdom; but those People conceal it, to what Intent is well known.