The voyages, dangerous adventures and imminent escapes: of Captain Richard Falconer: containing the laws, customs, and manners of the Indians in America; ... Intermix'd with the voyages and adventures of Thomas Randal, of Cork, pilot; ... Written by himself, now alive.

THE VOYAGES AND ADVENTURES OF Capt. Richard Falconer. BOOK II.

WE past our Time in this Makeshift Island as well as we could; we invent∣ed several Games to di∣vert our selves: One Day, when we had been merry, Sorrow (as after Gaiety often

happens) stole insensibly on us all. I, as being the youngest, began to reflect on my sad Condition, in spending my Youth on a Barren Land, without Hopes of be∣ing ever redeem'd. Whereupon, Mr. Ran∣dal, being the Eldest, rose up and made the following Speech, as nigh as I can remember.

Mr. Falconer, and my Fellow-Sufferers; but 'tis to you (pointing at me) that I chiefly address my Speech, being you seem to despair of a Redemption from this Place, (as you call it) more than any other of the same Condition. Is not the Providence of a Power Su∣preme shewn in every Accident in the Life of Man; even you your self, how much better is your Condition now, than you cou'd have imagin'd it wou'd have been a Month ago? There is a Virtue in man∣ly Suffering, and to repine, seems to doubt of the All-seeing Power, which regulates our Actions. If you seem con∣scious of your deserving (as a Punish∣ment for any Crime you have committed) what has happen'd, why do you not with a contrite Heart, lift up your Voice

to Heaven, and sincerely ask Forgiveness of all your past Offences, and that Way free your self of those gross Errors that are crept into your weak Faith. Think you that the Divine Providence that cast Jonas from the Bowels of the Whale, has not that Retentive Power still left, to aid and fetch us from this Place?

I must confess, tho' touch'd with what he said, I could not forbear smiling at the Word Retentive, which brought to my Mind an Image very diverting in an Acci∣dent that happen'd once to me in England, since my Sea Adventures, and perhaps one Time or other I may communicate to my Friends, which I'm sure will divert 'em; for my living on Shore for these six Years last past, has been as extraordinary as my Adventures at Sea.

Here (pursu'd he) we have every Thing that can be requir'd to satisfy Nature; we have Beds to lie on, and a Cover∣ing from the Weather; we have Provisi∣ons for a Twelvemonth, and if we shou'd continue here a longer Time, we need not fear starving, the very Island produ∣cing wherewithal to support Nature, as

Eggs and Fowls; and tho' there is no River or Rivulet of fresh Water, yet it rains so frequently, we need not fear even that, being we have Vessels enough to save it in: You have the least Reason to spurn at Providence of any one here, that had only a Hole in the Earth to save your Water, which had not lasted two Days longer, before we (very happily for you) were thrown on Shore. Is there not a Providence in being thrown on Land, when you expected Drown∣ing before the Morning dawn'd, which happen'd otherwise? Is there not a Pro∣vidence in getting Food, when you expe∣cted to starve? Is there not a Providence in getting Fire by rubbing two Sticks, which you know you could not effect since, tho' we have all endeavour'd at it? Was it not a Providence, that your Boo∣bies remain'd sweet, even till the Day that we came here? And was it not a Providence that we were thrown here, which brought you all Sorts of Provisi∣ons, (I mean all that is necessary) with Flint, and Steel, and other Utensils? And can you then doubt of a farther Provi∣dence,

that have had all these? Besides, even Company is some Allay to Sorrow, you were alone before, and had only your self to talk too. Our Bark is strong and firm, and by Degrees, I don't doubt but with Time and much Labour, to get her into the Water again. I have been a Board her this Morning when you were all asleep, and examin'd her carefully In∣side and Out, and fancy our Liberty may soon be effected; I only wonder we have never thought before of clearing the Sand from our Vessel, which once done, I be∣lieve we may Launch her out into deep Water; we have all our Tackling, Sails and Masts entire, without Damage; I don't despair of the Mercy of God in working our Deliverance, whose Ways are past the Knowledge of us poor insig∣nificant Mortals. I my self have more than once been in the same, or worse Condition.

In a Voyage I made twelve Years a∣go, I suffer'd Shipwreck, and not one Person sav'd but my self: I set out from the City of Cork in Ireland, on Board a Bark bound for the Baltick, we past the

Straits of Elsenor and Helsinburgh, with∣out meeting any thing material; when one Evening it began to Thunder, Light∣en and Rain prodigiously; the Storm was so violent, that we expected every Mo∣ment when we should be drove on Shore on the Coast of Sweedland, or Nor∣way, and be dash'd to Pieces. The Storm continu'd so long, that all our Masts came by the Board, our Vessel sprung a Leak, and the Water gain'd upon us e∣very Moment; at last it overpower'd us so much, that we left Pumping, as believ∣ing it impossible to save ourselves, and re∣commended our Souls to the Mercy of the Lord. At last our Ship sunk down∣right, and most of our Men with it; but I and two more had the good Fortune to lay hold of the Main-Mast, (that had been cut above Deck, being it was sprung below, and thrown Over-board to pre∣vent any Danger) which was tangled in some of the Cordage; but the Ship sink∣ing downright, with the Rope that was turn'd to the Main-Mast, gave it such a Tug, that pull'd it under Water; but afterwards loosing or slipping off by good

Fortune, it rose with two of us again, but the third was never seen after. The other that sav'd himself upon the Mast, was the Master, a Man about Sixty Years old, who held pretty well for a∣bout an Hour, but at last thro' Weakness and Age (recommending his Soul to God) fell off; but yet call'd for Help, and I being willing to give, laid hold of him, which I had no sooner done, but he grasp'd at me, and laying fast hold of the Skirt of my Wastcoat, (having never a Coat on) pull'd me off the Mast; but with his Weight and some Strugling I made to save my self, my Skirt rip'd off, and the Master sunk to the Bottom, and I by good Fortune laid hold of the Rig∣ing that hung to the Mast; so once more got on stride it, but with little Hopes of Life: yet doing my Endeavour to save my self, but with a Resignation to the Will of Heaven. At last, after being toss∣ed about for two or three Hours more, the End of the Mast rush'd with such Vi∣olence against a Rock, (as I suppos'd) that with the Shock I was thrown off; but laid hold of some of the Cordage a∣gain,

and held fast till it fix'd it self in some of the craggy Cliffs of the Rock.

By this Time the Tempest was very much abated, and the Waves not dashing so often, nor so fierce, I found that the Mast hung on the craggy Clifts of the Rock, which I climb'd up as fast as I could, least another Wave should dash me against it, and beat my Brains out. After I had got as high as I could, and out of Danger of the Waves, I kneel'd down and return'd Thanks to the Almighty for my wonderful Deliverance; which was won∣derful indeed! For tho' the Mast beat so often against the Rock, yet I escap'd with∣out being so much as bruis'd. When I had poured out the Fullness of my Soul to the All-seeing Power, that had protected me from such an imminent Danger, I com∣pos'd my self to sleep, but with a Calm∣ness wonderful, (even to my self) won∣derful in every Circumstance, that the Almighty Providence should chuse me out of thirty poor Souls that perish'd in the stormy Deep, for a Monument of his Mercy. I slept, but yet my Dreams were troubled; I thought in my Sleep, I

was cast on Shore upon a Barren Rock, where there was not a Creature but my self, no Food, nor any Thing to sustain Nature; which prov'd too true. I was awak'd by something that lick'd my Face, which in my Fright I laid hold on, but soon let it go again upon finding it hairy, which startled me very much; and tho' it was still dark, I could not go to sleep again for the Concern I was in, for fear of some devouring Creature should come and seize me. I listened, and observed the Storm was laid, and the Dawn approaching, I began to com∣pose my Mind, and to put my Trust in him, that had hitherto preserved me.

When it came to be light enough to perceive any Object, I rose up and be∣gan to view the Place; when, to my great Surprize, I found it to be only a large Rock, about half a Mile in Cir∣cumference as near as I could guess; but the North Part so inaccessible, there was no getting to the Top of it: Looking about me, I saw coming fawn∣ing towards me, a large Bitch, which

was the Creature had awak'd me by licking my Face. I must confess I was surprized and pleas'd, and made much of my new Companion. I hop'd from it I should find some humane Creatures; but searching about and not meeting with any, I was more grieved than before; yet still I resign'd my self to the Will of him that sees all Things, and knew it was in his Power to fetch me out of Darkness and the Shadow of Death. In walking up and down in a little Cavity of the Rock, I met with seven young suck∣ing Puppies, that I found belong'd to the Bitch my Companion, for she gave them suck, which I stay'd a little while to observe. Then a Thought came into my Head, that this might be some re∣sort for Fishermen, and I should very shortly see some that would take me from this desolate Place.

I began to search about for something to sustain Nature, but could find no∣thing but some Perriwinkles, and other little Shell-fish, which I ventured to feed upon, for now I began to be very hun∣gry. I wonder'd mightily at my poor

Bitch, how she got Food to support her self, and her seven young Ones. I ob∣served she used to leave me two or three times a Day, but return'd in a quarter of an Hour. One Day I had the Curiosity to watch her, but she went so fast, that I could not come up to her; but still I follow'd, and at last came to the Point of a Rock where she went down, and look∣ing below, saw her feeding upon a dead Seal; but how it came there I could not suppose, neither could I go down the Rock to see farther, it being so dange∣rous a Place: When she had eat her fill, she came up again, and went to give her young Ones suck. I was mightily put to it for Water, tho' there was good Quantities in several Cavities of the Rock, but so hard to come at, that sometimes I ventured breaking my Neck to get it; besides, I could not expect that would always last, for the Sun was pretty warm, tho' not intolerable. I had in my Pocket a Knife and Fork and a Case of Lancets, but they were rusted by be∣ing wet, and of no use to me, for I could get nothing to exercise 'em on;

indeed my Fork serv'd me to twist out my Perriwinkles.

I had been here now fifteen Days, and nothing to feed on but these sort of Shell∣fish; yet still my Strength and Health continued to a Miracle: I slep'd well, tho' my Bed was something hard: It was compos'd of part of the Rigging that came on Shore with the Mast, which I had untwisted, and pull'd into Oakham, and laid it under an hollow Part of the Rock, where no Rain or Wind could hurt me, unless it blew hard South, which when it did, would force a little into my Bed-Chamber.

Looking out one Day I saw a Boat coming towards my Rocky Island, the sight rais'd my Spirits wonderfully, but observing her narrowly, I found she was only driving, by the Wind and Tide, without any one in her: However I got down my Rock, and waited for her coming on Shore, which she did within twenty Yards of me; I immediately got in her to rumage her, and, suprizing Provi∣dence! found twenty dry'd Fish, a Salt-Box fill'd with Bisket, and about half a

Pint of Brandy in a Bottle. After gi∣ving God Thanks with great Sincerity of Soul, I fell to, and eat heartily. There were two Oars in the Boat, a Boat-Hook, a small Fisher-Net, and a Tinder-Box, with a Grapling Iron and Rope for a Cable: Upon this I began to be exceed∣ing easy, and thought my self to be in a happy Condition: I brought my Fish on Shore, and stow'd it in my Bed-Chamber, and over it, (for fear of my Bitch,) put several Pieces of Ropes. I had a Tinder Box, and could strike a Light, but had no Candle to burn nor any Provision to dress.

After I had settled every Thing as I would have it, I resolv'd to take my Boat and go round the Rock, to see if I could discover any Thing on the other side of the inaccessible Part. Whereupon I took two of my dry'd Fish, and Half a Dozen Biskets, and put my self on Board; but my poor Bitch came to the Shore Side, and took on so migh∣tily, that I went and took her in. I row'd half round, (as near as I could guess) the first Day; but what made me

so long was, that in some Places, I was oblig'd to row half a League from Shore, to avoid some Shallows which lay out towards the North East side. I ventured to lie in my Boat all Night, and the next Morning went onward in my Voyage, and at last came to that Part of the Rock that I could not get over when I was a Shore. Here I found upon the Ground a Nest of Eggs, about the Bigness of a Duck Egg, yet I could not discover what Fowl own'd them; but I took 'em all a∣way, and ventured to suck one of them, which I found as pleasant as a new laid Hen Egg. Here the Bitch grew very un∣easy, and by her whining and fruitless Endeavours to pass the Rock, (which was Perpendicular) let me understand she wanted to be with her Puppies. Finding nothing here for my Benefit, but my Eggs, I got on Board, and endea∣voured to go round, which I did, till I came to the Place where the Seal lay that my Bitch found, but it stunk abo∣minably; yet she fell to, and after ha∣ving eat, ran up the Rock, and so (as I suppose,) to her Puppies. I went on

Board again; but there arose such a Fog of a suddain, that I could hardly see the Length of the Boat, so rather chose to go back again than venture farther out of my Knowledge, which I did in a little time, the Sea being higher over the Sand, and arrived at my own Habitation.

I pull'd up my Boat as high as I could, and went on Shore, and coming to visit my young Companions found the weak∣est dead for want of the Dam, which I immediately took, cut open and flay'd off the Skin, when after being dry'd, I made me a Cap of, by cutting it in form, and sewing it together with some fine Rope Yarn that I twisted on pupose, and my Fork I us'd instead of a Needle. The Fat serv'd me to make Candles in this Manner, by pulling to Pieces some Rope Yarn and twisting it hard; then I struck a Light, and with an Egg-Shell heated my Fat, and drew the Rope Yarn thro' it, so I provided my self with a new sort of Candle. But then I had but a small Piece of Match, and when that should be gone, I should be at a strange loss how to light my Candle.

Finding my Provision decrease, I came to an Allowance of a Quarter of a Fish a Day, and Half a Bisket, and not to touch that if I could get any Shell-fish, which began to be scarce too, for some Days I could not find above Ten or Twelve, and when I came first there, I us'd to take 'em up by Handfuls. Upon this I began to reflect, that Winter was approaching, and consequently very cold Weather; and then perhaps I should not get any Food; I resolved within my self to venture in my Boat, and sail which way the Wind should direct me, but then I was put to it for a Sail, (for we had cut off the Yards and Sails of the Main Mast, before we threw it over Board) but at last I thought of a White Dimit∣ty Wastcoat that I wore, which was lin'd with Linnen, this I unript and sew'd together again, so pieced the Li∣ning to the Outsides, and made me a tolerable Sail. But in the mean time the Wind blew so high, that I durst not venture out; and continued so long, that my Provision was diminish'd to two Fish, which almost put me to my Wits End.

Shell-Fish were not to be had. So at last I resolv'd to kill one of my Bitch's Whelps; which I did, made a Fire with some Boards I found at the Bottom of my Boat, and roasted it; 'twas palatable and eat wonderfully well, they being not two Months old.

I don't question but you'll all laugh at me, when I shall tell you that it went very much against me to kill this harm∣less Creature; but my Necessity had no Law; besides, I had observ'd but two Days before, that the Seal, which was the Dam's Food, was gnaw'd to the Bones. In short, after some Strugglings with my self, I kill'd five of the six, and salted two of 'em; for after eating my Biskets out of the Salt-Box, I found a Handful or two of Salt at the Bottom, which I made use of in that Manner. The Intrails I boil'd, and gave to the Dam and other Puppy, who eat of it heartily, making no Scruple tho' their own Flesh and Blood. The sixth and last Puppy I resolv'd not to kill at all if I could help it, it being so like the Dam, and wou'd always be with me if it

could, when the others would only play about the Hole where they lay.

In short, I began to find the Weather cold, and so resolv'd to set sail in my Boat, with my two Companions, my Bitch and Puppy; and on the 1st of Sep∣tember, after being on the Rock from May the 30th, I set sail with the Wind about N. E. a middling Gale, and steering with my other Oar; for you must know my Boat-Hook was my Mast, and a piece of slit Wood that I sav'd from the Fire was my Yard; so that I cou'd make shift to ply it to Windward upon Occasion, but was resolv'd to sail before the Wind till I discover'd Land; but my Boat being pretty large, and my Sail but small, I could not make my Way as I might have done with a Sail fitted to the Boat, so that I could not discover Land that Night, but sail'd on till about Midnight; then I was so fatigu'd, that in Spite of my self, I was oblig'd to lie along in the Boat, and fell asleep, and slept till I was awaken'd by a Fisherman in a Boat, whom I understood not; but found by his Dialect to be a Dane. I gave him

to understand my Condition, by speaking and Signs together, which he seem'd to be sorry for by beating his Breast, and shaking his Head.

He carry'd me a-Shore to a Village, where they made very much of me, and gave me Cloaths; but I would not stir without my Dogs. My Boat was sold, and the Money gave me, for my own Use. After I had stay'd at the Village three Days, I was carry'd to Copenhagen, to Mr. Bridgwater, the Factor for several English Merchants, who made a Gather∣ing for me which amounted to twenty seven Pounds in English Money. The King of Denmark sent a Person to me, who understood English very well, and took down the Particulars of my Voy∣age in the Danish Language, that I saw afterwards printed there; but no one could ever fix upon the Rock that I liv∣ed on. One said it was such a One, ano∣ther such a One; and some conjectur'd it to be a Part of the Main Land of Swe∣den, which I should have found if I had ventured further when hinder'd by the Fog.

But I forgot to tell you, that by Printing this Account, a Man came to de∣mand his Boat, that he said he had lost by the Carelessness of a Boy, to whom he had given it in Charge; who neglecting to fasten it on Shore, it drove out to Sea, and came where I had the good Fortune to meet with it, or rather guided by the Eye of Providence, to be the Means or Instrument of saving my Life; which, but for that, I must have inevitably lost. The Fisherman that own'd the Boat, had a New One given him in the Room on't, and to the Value of five Pounds for the Things it contain'd.

The Gentleman that was order'd to take the Notes mention'd above, brought me a Hundred English Guineas, collect∣ed from Merchants and Gentlemen of the City. The King likewise order'd me a Hundred more from his Privy Purse; so that in November the 18th, I went on Board an English Ship, call'd the Happy, Captain John Gibson Commander. We immediately set sail for London, and ar∣riv'd at Debtford, December the 25th, being Christmass-Day, 1688; but finding

Things out of Order in England, I thought it was no Place to settle in. So January the 1st I took Horse for Bristol, and from thence embark'd for Cork, where I had some small Effects, and happily arriv'd there, January the 14th; where I was welcom'd from Death, by all my Friends.

But I forgot one Thing which happen∣ed to me at Copenhagen. Dining with the Gentleman that spoke English very well, and several other Danes, I hap∣pened to drink to him in English, with, Sir, My humble Service to you, and ask'd him if he would Pledge me: Upon which, he told me, I must never mention Pledg∣ing among Danes; for, added he, 'tis the greatest Affront you can put upon 'em. How so, Sir, says I? Why, says he, I know 'tis your Custom in England, but if you all knew the Meaning of it, you would surely abolish it. Whereupon, I press'd him to tell me the Foundation of that Custom, according to his Notion. Why says he, when the Danes invaded Eng∣land, and got the Better of the Natives, they us'd often to eat and drink toge∣ther;

but still allowing the Danes to be their Masters: And very often, upon some Pique or Interest, they us'd even to stab 'em when they were lifting the Cup to their Mouths. Upon the English being frequently murder'd in this Man∣ner, they contriv'd at last when they were at Meals, or drinking with the Danes, to say to their next Neighbour, Here's to you; upon which, the other cry'd, I'll pledge you: Which was as much as to say, he would be his Surety, or Pledge, while the other drank; and accordingly the other would guard him while he drank. When done, the other would drink; and then he that drank before, was to stand his Pledge likewise. Nay, it came to be such a Custom at last, that when one Englishman came into the Com∣pany of several Danes, he wou'd say in taking up his Cup, to his next Neigh∣bour, Will you Pledge me, with an Em∣phasis; upon the others answ'ring he would, he might drink without Fear.

After staying the Winter at Cork, I de∣sign'd to embark with Captain Clarke, on Board the Ship Gilliflower, and according∣ly

we set out from Cork, April the 23d, 1689. for Boston in New-England, and so for Virginia; we arriv'd at Boston June the 3d, having a quick Passage. After having done our Business there, we set sail for Virginia. We doubled Cape-Cod without any Danger; but one Night a Storm rose, that flung us on Shore upon the Main, within six Leagues of Cape-Charles, where our Men were all sav'd, but in a poor Condition. Our Ship ly∣ing upon the Sands a Furlong from Shore, fourteen out of twenty of our Men that could swim, went into the Long-Boat, and went on Board the Ship, to get some Necessaries; as soon as they had got what they wanted, they came towards the Shore again; but the Boat being deeply Laden, could not come nigh e∣nough to Shore to unload, so that they resolv'd to go farther to seek for deeper Water, and bid us follow along the Shore, which we did; but they doubling a Point of Land, we lost Sight of 'em: However we follow'd on still, when going over a little Swamp, we perceiv'd several Indi∣dians in a Wood on our Right-Hand.

Whereupon we began to be in a despe∣rate Fright, but still we march'd on; when coming to the Skirt of the Wood, they let fly their Arrows at us, which kill'd one of our Companions, and wounded two more, one in the Arm, and the o∣ther in the Side of the Neck; as for my part, I still remain'd unhurt, but had an Arrow sticking in the Sleeve of my Watch-coat. After the Indians had fir'd, they ran to us with incredible Swiftness, whereupon (having no Weapons) we kneel'd down to 'em, and implor'd their Mercy. One among 'em spoke English pretty well, who said, You Englishmen, White-Men, we will kill you to be re∣veng'd of your Brothers at I amestown, who kill us many Indians; we will take you to our Werowance, (i. e. King,) and he will order us to burn you, where we will drink your Blood, and feed up∣on your Flesh. They hurry'd us along that Night at least twenty Miles up in the Country, and next Morning brought us to their Village, where was their We∣rowance, sick in his Cabin; but hearing of our coming, he rose up, and with se∣veral

of his Officers (who are call'd Cock∣orooses) came towards us. After he had examin'd the Indians (as we suppose) how we were taken, he order'd a great Fire to be made, and had us all ty'd to one Stake fix'd in the Earth; but we were no sooner ty'd, and the Signal given for firing the Wood about us, but we were unty'd and brought back to the Tent, to stay, as we were inform'd, till the next Day, till more Indians could come to be Spectators of our Tragedy. They had strip'd us Naked, and in my Breeches-Pocket had found my Box of Instruments, which they examin'd very narrowly, and ask'd which of us it belong'd to? When they were inform'd it was mine, I was im∣mediately sent for before the Werowance, who ask'd me by his Interpreter, the Name and Use of every Instrument, which I inform'd him: When he came to my Lancets, and being inform'd they were to Bleed, he ask'd in a great Passi∣on, if I was the Murderer of the Indians that were taken by the English? But when I let him know it was to let Blood in many Distempers, for Ease for the Bo∣dy,

and that we were Strangers to those English that kill'd their Indians, he abated of his Anger, and ask'd me if I could show how I let Blood, which I told him I could, if any one wanted it, and was not well. Whereupon the We∣rowance said he was not very well; but he would have me try upon one of my Companions, before he would let me Bleed him. I told his Interpreter that he should tell him I would feel his Pulse, that I might know whether 'twas proper to let him Blood or no; Feel his Pulse! what's that? says the Interpreter, and thought I meant something else; where∣upon I took him by the Hand, and show∣ed him what I meant. When the Inter∣preter had satisfy'd him with what I said, he beckon'd me to him, and held out his Hand, which I felt, and found he was in a high Fever; I told the Inter∣preter that he must be let Blood, for his Indisposition was a Fever, and explain'd his Distemper, which he finding to agree with his Condition, seem'd to be mighti∣ly pleas'd; but he would have me Bleed some one of my Companions before him;

I pitch'd upon one that it would not injure, and Bled him upon the Ground till he had Bled enough, and then ty'd up his Arm. The Werowance and the rest of the Indians were amaz'd to see him Bleed such a Quantity, and ask'd me if he must Bleed as much? I told 'em, yes, or rather more; but that I wou'd have something to save the Blood, be∣cause I could make a better Judgment of the Cause of his Distemper. Where∣upon they brought me a Callibash, which I suppos'd might hold a Quart; and upon this, I ty'd up his Arm, and let him Bleed till I had taken about Sixteen Ounces from him, so ty'd up his Arm again. When I had done, he wanted to go into his Hammock to sleep; but I told him he must not go to rest till Night, which he comply'd with. The next Day he was much bet∣ter, and sent for me again, from the Place where they had kept us waking all Night, by Singing and Dancing round us; and if any of us offer'd to sleep, they would jogg us and hinder us. When I came to him I unbound his Arm,

and he looking at the Orifice, and find∣ing it clos'd, was more amaz'd than be∣fore; then he made his Interpreter ask me concerning his Blood, which was cor∣rupted; and when I told him if I had not Bled him, he would soon have dy'd, he got up, and made me sit down upon a Mat which lay in his Cabbin, and told me by his Interpreter, if I would stay with him, he would save both me and my Companions; if we would Fight a∣gainst the Whites, and Marry Indian Wo∣men, that should be allotted us. I told him I would ask my Companions, who rejoyc'd at the Proposals; (and tho' all marry'd before) yet they made no Scru∣ple of having another Wife. As for my self, (tho' not marry'd,) I did not much care for such a tawny Rib, therefore told the Werowance, none of our Profession ever marry'd; he being well satisfy'd with this Answer, spar'd all our Lives. For my part I had a House allotted me to my self, that is a Place about the Height of one Story with us, and cover'd with the Barks of Trees; the Fire-Place is in the Middle of the House, and all the Chim∣ney

is the Door. The Country is gene∣rally pretty even, and agrees very well with an English Constitution. I need not describe the Climate, being I sup∣pose you all know the Nature of it as well as I. All the Indians that ever I saw, were well Limb'd, and near Six Foot high.

The Marriages were made the next Day without much Ceremony, they were only join'd by their Priests, without any Question on either Side, and so carry'd Home to their several Tents. All the while I was here, they were making Preparations to go against the English. One Day I was sent for, and ordered to feel the Pulse of the King; after I had done, he asked me if I could tell any thing of the Affairs of the Eng∣lish by feeling the Pulse; but I told him, that was impossible, without I was with 'em in Person: Whereupon, the King asked me if I would go to the Eng∣lish, and come to him again, and give him a true Account of 'em, but says he, you must leave your Sagamore, (mean∣ing my Box of Instruments) behind you. I told him I would make it my Business

to inform my self in every Particular, but that I did not know the Way; he told me I should have a Canoe and Four In∣dians that should carry me within a League of the English. I must confess I went with Joy and Sorrow; with Joy to leave such a cursed Place, where Death threatened me every Day; with Sor∣row to go without my Companions: We went into our Canoe, which lay about six Miles from the Place where the King liv'd, but took no Provisions with us; because my Indians were to provide for me by catching of Fish, in which they are very dexterous. We went down the River that the Indians call'd Kuskarra Ri∣ver, till we came to Chesapeack-Bay; then we row'd in our Canoe past Russels Is∣lands, and made toward Cape, or Poynt-Comfort; but coming about a League or thereabouts near the Island, a Boat came down the River, and upon what Account I can't tell; but they fir'd a Musquet, which being heard by the Indians, they immediately jump'd Over-board, and swam back again to Shore. I was not much concerned I must own, for there

was no Danger of their being drowned; for most Indians swim like Fishes. I took the Paddles and made the best of my Way to Poynt-Comfort, which I pass'd, and enter'd Powhattan River, (being directed by my Indians so to do,) and directed my Way to Lamestown, where I arriv'd very late, and was mightily rejoyc'd to find my Companions all well in Health, and ready to embark the next Day for Boston, in a Vessel bound for that Place. After refreshing my self, and selling my Canoe, I with the rest of the Company set sail the next Day, and after various Adventures am arriv'd where you see me.

Now think with your self, Mr. Falconer, whether we need doubt the Providence of God in helping us from this Island? There's nothing here like the Hardships I have undergone, and yet have been hap∣pily freed from; and therefore you need not despair. Despair is the Frenzy of the Mind, and ought to be avoided, by having a true Notion of the Pow∣er we serve. Upon this I happen'd to smile, but was mightily check'd by Mr. Randal, who asked me with a clouded

Countenance, what I smil'd at? I reply∣ed his Story might have had the same Effect upon some old Women, (if it were in Print) that the Sufferings of our Savi∣our had upon a Person in Years. What mean you by that, said Mr. Randal? Why, Ill tell you, but I would not have you angry at it, for I really believe every thing you have said to me. But a Re∣verend Divine once at Stamford in Lin∣colnshire, was preaching a Sermon upon Christ's Passion, where he expatiated on the many Sufferings, and what our Sa∣viour underwent to redeem us Mortals from the Curse that was laid upon us: An old Woman (one of the Auditors) took the Parson by the Sleeve as he went out of the Church, and said to him, Indeed, Sir, you have made a very feeling Ser∣mon, which has mov'd me very much, and more especially to ask you a Que∣stion, or two. Say on, good Woman, says the Parson. Pray then, Sir, (says she) how long is it ago since this Matter hap∣pen'd? Almost Seventeen Hundred Years ago. And how far off? (added the old Gentlewoman.) A great Way off, some

Three or Four Thousand Miles from hence. Alack aday! cry'd the Woman, I'm glad on't; Why so, says the Parson? Because (added she) 'tis so long ago, and so far off, I hope in God it is not true. As to your own Belief, (Mr. Falconer, said he,) I leave it to your self; but I don't like jest∣ing with Sacred Things: The old Wo∣man's Ignorance was Compassion; your Knowledge seems to be profane. I have known a great many airy young Fellows that have talk'd idly on such Things, to make People have an Opinion of their Wit; but yet, I believe, even in the ve∣ry Time of their Utterance, their Con∣science told 'em, the very doing what was not pleasing to God or Man. I real∣ly took Mr. Randal's Way of expressing himself very kindly, and as I ought; for there appear'd so much Sincerity and Can∣dour in all that he said, that it would move any one that had a Sense of Hea∣ven or Humane Nature. Therefore I beg'd his Pardon, and was heartily sorry if I had said ought that might any ways of∣fend him; which he freely forgave. Af∣ter we had spent the Night in Reflecti∣on

of what had past; the next Morn∣ing, we (after imploring the Assistance of the Almighty) went to Work to clear the Sand from our Vessel: which we con∣tinued working on, for 16 Days toge∣ther, resting only on Sunday, which at last we effected. We had thrown up the Sand on each side, down from our Vessel quite to the Surface of the Water, when it was lowest. Now the next Thing we had to do, was to get Poles to put under our Vessel to Launch her out, which we got from the Burton Wood, but with much difficulty, being we were forced to cut a great many before we could get them that were fit for our Purpose. After we had done this, we returned God Thanks for our Success hitherto, and on the Day fol∣ing, resolved (God willing) to thrust off our Vessel into the Water, but was pre∣vented by Mr. Randal's being taken Ill of a Fever, occasioned (as we suppose) by his great Fatigue in working to free our Ship from the Sand, wherein he spared no Pains, for to encourage us as much by his Actions as his Words, even be∣yond

his Strength. The Concern we were all in upon this, occasioned our delay in not getting our Vessel out, be∣sides one Hand out of Five, was a weak∣ning our Strength. Mr Randal never thought of his Instruments, till now, which he wanted to let himself Blood, but not feeling them about his Cloaths, we suppos'd they might have been over∣look'd in the Vessel, so I ran immediate∣ly to see if I could find them; and getting up the Side, my very Weight pull'd her down to the Sand; which had certainly bruis'd me to Death, if I had not by the Appointment of divine Providence sunk into the Hollow that we had made by throwing the Sand from the Ship. I crept out in a great Fright, and ran to my Companions, who with much ado got her upright, and afterwards we fixed some spare Oars on each side, to keep her up from falling again. For the Pie∣ces of Wood that we had placed under her were greas'd to facilitate her sliping into the Water, and we had dig'd the the Sand so entirely from her, that she rested only on 'em, which occasioned

her leaning to one side with my Weight only, which had not happened, I believe, if I had endeavour'd to have got on Board on the other side, which was highest, but chusing the lowest for my more easy Entrance, was the Cause of the Accident, that happened to me. When we were enter'd into the Vessel, and found our Endeavours to find the Box of Instru∣ments fruitless, we were all mightily con∣cerned, for we verily believed that bleed∣ing would have cured him; nay even he himself said, that if he could be let Blood, he was certain his Fever would a∣bate, and he should be easier; yet to see with what a perfect Resignation he sub∣mitted to the Will of Heaven, it would have inspired one with a true Knowledge of the Being good Men enjoy after a Dissolution from this painful Life. He was still worse and worse; but yet so Patient in his Sufferings, that perfectly amaz'd us all. He continued in this Manner a whole Week, without tasting any Thing but Water-gruel ill made, for what little Oatmeal we had, was sower. When we saw by the Course of Nature,

it was impossible he should last long, we all were very much griev'd; as for my own Part, I could not forbear shed∣ding Tears, for I had taken such an Af∣fection to him, that almost equall'd a Child's Love to a Parent. He seeing me weep, call'd me with a faint Voice towards him; and when I was near him, he made me sit down by him. After several kind Expressions, which made my Tears flow more plentifully, he said to me, Mr. Fal∣coner, if you grieve for me, dry your Tears, I desire nothing but your Prayers. I am going to pay a Debt incumbent on me by Nature, and a Debt that must be paid, which was contracted at my Birth, and Death will not admit of any Evasion; all Mortals owe the same Acknowledg∣ment, but some squander away that Sub∣stance which should be freely paid when call'd for. How happy are they that provide against such a Creditor, that may come at any Hour of Day or Night, and lawfully demand his due? Here is no Shuffling as in worldly Matters, no putting off the important Visiter; there∣fore as we are sure he will call upon us,

'tis good to be always provided against the Time. How happy are honest Minds, when they have provided to satisfy their worldly Creditors; they then live in a Contentment of Mind, peculiar to an honest Heart: But what must be said for the last Debt, upon which depends the Welfare of the Soul, our doing well or ill hereafter, is it not of the utmost Importance? Therefore as I am endea∣vouring to pay that Debt, whose utmost Limit will soon expire, help me by your Prayers to finish what I hope I have well begun, and as Friend's Advice, prepare to make up your Accounts to Heaven, for you know not how soon they may be call'd for; besides you will have one less to eat of the Provision is left. After this, being tir'd with speaking so much toge∣ther, he turn'd to rest himself, but his Fever was so violent, he could take no ease in Body, tho' tranquil in Mind. So finding we could not expect his Life, we pray'd for a speedy and a painless Release from it. After this we gave him some Water (which he often beg'd for in vain) to cool his Mouth. When he had

drank it, he said he found himself a lit∣tle easier, and the Pain and Burning something abated, which we took as a lightning before Death, or as the Spirits collected together to make their last fruitless Efforts.

When he found himself just upon the Point of expiring, he made this short Prayer, which was so imprinted in my Memory, that I shall never forget it: O Almighty Creator of Heaven and Earth, whose all-seeing Eye looks into the in∣most Corner of the Heart! pardon my Offences, which I heartily repent of, and rely upon the infinite Grace of thy wont∣ed Mercy to absolve me of all my past Crimes, through the Merits of my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Then lifting up his Hands and Eyes to Heaven expi∣red, with the Happiness of continuing in his right Senses in such a Fever, which is almost always attended with a Fren∣zy.

After our Sorrow for his Death was something abated, we consulted how to bury him. Mr. Middleton and Mr. Mus∣grave were for sewing him in his Ham∣mock

and throwing him into the Sea; But Mr. White and my self were for burying him on the Land, which they a∣greed to; so we dig'd the Hole which I designed for my Well, Seven Foot long and Seven deep, and return'd him to Earth from whence he came. Upon the Bark of the Tree that shaded his Grave, I wrote this Epitaph.

Under this Tree lies the Body of Thomas Randal, Gent. born in the Ci∣ty of Cork, Anno Domini 1641. who was thrown ashore with Richard White, William Musgrave, and Ralph Middle∣ton, both of Jamaica, to the Consola∣tion of Richard Falconer of Bruton in Somersetshire, who was unfortunately cast on Shore before them on the 18th of of September 1699. yet received from their Conversation a Mitigation of his own Misfortune. Whose Chance it is ever to read these Lines, pay a Tear to the Memory of Thomas Randal, and endeavour to make as good an End as he did, who died a Natural Death on Friday December the 21st 1699, in his perfect Mind, and a true Notion of the

Power of God to pardon all his Faults, whose Failings were corrected by a sin∣cere Penitence, dying every Day he lived.

This took me up a whole Tree. Mr. Randal made no Will; yet I claimed his Dog, being the Whelp of the Bitch he found upon the Rock which he was thrown upon in the Baltick, the Bitch being Dead some Years before. We were forced to tie him up after we had buried Mr. Randal, for with his Feet he would scrape Holes in the Grave two Foot deep, and howl prodigiously.

After this we prepared once more to Launch our Vessel; but first we put on Board what Provision we had left, and all the Things that we took from thence. Mr. Randal's Death gave me (with the others Permission) a Title to a Bed, which I wanted before. So that I took up the Cabin which was alloted me, and laid on Board every Night: And now we bent our Thoughts intirely on our Vessel, and on Monday the 31st of December launch'd her out into the Sea, and de∣sign'd to set Sail the next Day. After we had fix'd her fast with two Anchors,

and a Halser on Shore, we went on Board to Dine and make ourselves Merry, which we did very heartily, and to add to our Mirth, we made a large Can of Punch, which we never attempted to do before, being we had but one Bottle of Lime Juice in all, and was what (indeed) we design'd for this Occasion; in short the Punch ran down so merrily, that we were all in a drunken Condition; but when it was all gone, we resolved to go to rest: But all I could do, could not persuade 'em to lie on Board that Night in their Cabins, (yet without a Bed;) but they would venture, tho' they were obliged to swim a hundred Yards before they could wade to Shore, but however they got safe, which I knew by their hollowing and rejoicing.

Having brought my Bed on Board, I went to rest very contentedly, which I did till next Morning: But oh! Horror! when I had drest my self, and going on Deck, to call my Companions to come on Board to Dine, which was intended over Night, and afterwards to go on Shore, and bring our Sails and Yards on

Board, and make to Sea as fast as we could, I could not see any Land, which so overcame me on the Suddain, that I sunk down on the Deck, without Sense or Motion: How long I continu'd so, I can't tell, but I awak'd full of the Sense of my lamentable Condition, and ten thou∣sand Times (spight of my Resolution to forbear) curs'd my unhappy Stars, that had brought me to that deplorable State. O Wretch that I am! what will my unhappy Fate do with me, is any one's Condition equal to mine? (I would cry) But 'tis a just Punishment, in not rendering to God the Tribute due for his Mercies, that we had hitherto known. Instead of coming on Board to be Frolick∣some and Merry, we should have given Thanks to him, that gave us the Blessing of thinking we were no longer subject to such Hardships, that we might probably have undergone, if we had been detain'd longer on that Island. If poor Mr. Ran∣dal had remain'd among us, this Misfor∣tune had not happened. He by his wise and prudent Care and Conduct, would have prevented this unlucky Accident. What

must my poor Companions think that are left in a more miserable Condition than my self, if it be possible. I have no Com∣pass, neither am I of my self capable of ruling the Vessel in a Calm, much less if there should a Storm happen, which are too frequent in this Climate.

After I had vented my Grief in a Tor∣rent of Words and Tears, I began to think how the Vessel should have gone to Sea without my Knowledge; and by Remem∣brance of the Matter the Night before, found by our Eagerness and fatal Care∣lessness, we had forgot to fasten our Ca∣bles to the Geers, and pulling up the Halser that we had fasten'd to one of the Burton Trees on Shore, perceiv'd that the Force of the Vessel had pull'd the Tree out of the Earth. Then I too late found that a Hurricane had rose when I was sound asleep, and stupify'd by too much Liquor, and carry'd off the Vessel. This Reflection wounded me deeper than be∣fore, which I follow'd with Curses on that Liquor that steals away our Senses, and makes worse than Beasts of Humane Creatures.

Now I began to call upon him that hears us in the Time of Trouble, even when the Wind blows loudest, whose Nod can shake the Frame of Earth from off its Basis; and with a Heart sincere, and vicious Thoughts corrected, I sent my Soul in Penitential Words and Tears before his Throne of Mercy, imploring a speedy Ending of my Life or Troubles; when I began to be something better con∣tented in my Mind, and thought of su∣staining Nature almost spent, with the Fatigue and Grieving: One great Com∣fort I had of my Side, which my poor (former) wretched Companions wanted, that was Provision in Plenty, and fresh Water; so that when I began to consider coolly, I found I had not that Cause to complain which they had, who were left on a Barren Island, without any other Provision than that very same Diet which I was forc'd to take up with, when first thrown on Shore; that is, the Boobies, whose Numbers were mightily diminish'd, before we design'd to leave the Island.

What made me most uneasy, was to think what my Companions could judge

of me, whether they should take it for Design or Chance; but then I still'd that Thought, by knowing they must needs see that the Tree was forc'd away with Violence beyond the Strength of Man. Besides, I had another small Comfort, that was the Company of my Dog, which lay on Board with me, which I us'd to talk to as if he were a rational Creature; and the poor Creature wou'd stand and stare me in the Face, as if he were sensible of what I said to him. It was a very hand∣some Creature, of the Danish Kind; but very good-natured, and would often go to the Cabbin where I lay, which was that of his old Master's, and whine migh∣tily.

I remain'd toss'd upon the Sea for a Fortnight without discovering Land; for the Weather continu'd very calm, but yet so hazy that I could not perceive the Sun for several Days. One Day search∣ing for some Linnen that I had drop'd under the Sacking of my Bed, (for I did not lie in a Hammock) I found an old Glove with 75 Pieces of Eight in't, which I took and sew'd in the Waste-Band

of my Breeches, for fear I should want it some time or other. I made no Scruple of taking it, for I was well assu∣red it did belong to poor Mr. Randal. Beside I had heard the other People say, that they were sure he had Money some∣where; and after his Death we search'd for it, but could not find any.

January the 20th I discover'd a Sail to Leeward of me, but she bore away so fast, that there was not any Hope of Succour from her, and I had not any Thing to distinguish me; and I suppos'd tho' I could see them, yet they could not see me by Reason of my want of Sail, which would have made me the more conspicuous. The next Day I discover∣ed Land, about six Leagues to the S. W. of me, which I observ'd my Vessel did not come nigh, but coasted along Shore; but I was well assured it was the Pro∣vince of Jucatan, belonging to the Spa∣niards, and was the Place we came from; now all my Fear was that I should fall into their Hands, who would make me do the Work of a Slave; but even that I thought was better than to live in con∣tinual

Fear of Storms and Tempests, or Shipwreck.

I coasted along in this Manner for two or three Days, and at last discover'd Land right a-head, which I was very glad of; but yet mix'd with some Fear, in not knowing what Treatment I should have. I began now to think of some E∣vasion, and not to tell 'em the Truth, of belonging to the Logwood Vessel, but resolv'd to tell 'em that we were taken by a French Privateer, and after being rumag'd, were turn'd off as useless.

January the 30th, I made the Bay and Town of Francisco di Campeche, as it prov'd afterwards, and was almost upon it before I was met by any Thing of a Ship, or a Boat; but at last two Canoes came on Board with one Spaniard and six Indians, who were much surpriz'd when they understood my Condition by speak∣ing broken French, which the Spaniard understood. They immediately carry'd me on Shore, and from thence to the Governor, who was at Dinner; they would have had me staid till he had din'd; but he hearing of me, commanded

me to come in, where he was at Dinner with several Gentlemen, and two La∣dies; and tho' 'tis very rare any one sees the Women, yet they did not offer to Veil themselves. I was ordered to sit down by my self at a little Table placed for that Purpose, where I had sent me of what composed their Dinner, which was some fresh Fish, and Fowls, and ex∣cellent Wine of several Sorts.

The Chief Town of the Province of Ju∣catan, lies twelve Leagues from the Sea on either Side, which is a Bishop's See, and the Resident of the Governor of this Province. Valladolid is the second City; and Campeche the third; yet tho' but the third reckon'd, it far exceeds the rest, for Riches and Magnificence. It is a well situated neat built Town, and by Com∣putation contains near Two Thousand Houses. It is well fortified both by Art and Nature: By the former in a strong, well built, neat Castle, that contains a Hundred Brass Cannon, and several Mor∣tars; and the latter by a Ridge of Hills, that runs all along the Side of the City. There is in the Castle a very neat Piaz∣za,

consisting of about Thirty high Arches. This Town has the chiefest Trade; for from this Place, the other Ci∣ties and Towns are furnished with all Necessaries that come from the Havana and other Places in America; and like∣wise from Old Spain. Yet for all their Power, Riches and Strength, Capt Par∣ker, an Englishman, with one Ship, and a small Bark, and whose whole Crew contain'd but a Hundred and Forty Men, Landed in the Middle of the Day, and in Spite of all their Forces, which were Two Hundred Horse, and Five Hundred Foot, took the Place, with the Gover∣nor and several other Persons of Quality; together with a rich Ship laden with In∣gots and several other valuable Ladings, before they knew of the City's being ta∣ken. This Province of Jucatan, contains in Compass Nine Hundred Miles, and is situated between Eighteen and Twenty Degrees, Northern Latitude. The Air is very hot, and not altogether so Wholesome as some other Parts of Ame∣rica are. The Distempers that reign here, are mostly Fluxes and Feavers, which

carry off Abundance of New Comers. This Province was first discover'd by Fer∣dinando Cortez, among his Conquests of New Spain; and tho' not altogether so Fruitful, yet by the Industry of the In∣habitants, 'tis as Rich as any of the o∣ther Provinces of New Spain; for they are most either Merchants or Tradesmen: And 'tis the Vulgar Opinion, that these People are more hard and barbarous than any other Part of the Spanish West-Indies; yet, for my own part, I receiv'd more Ci∣vility by 'em, than if I had been among my own Friends in England.

There is a Tradition here among the Inhabitants, that they us'd a Ceremony much like our Baptism, and which had in their Language, the Term of Regene∣ration, or Second Birth; which they thought to be the Seed or Groundwork of all good and just Things; and after being initiated, they were certain it was not in the Power of the Evil Spirit to hurt 'em in Body or Goods: Neither were they permitted to Marry, without first taking that Order upon 'em, which they us'd to distinguish by an Ostriche's

Feather, larger and longer than any other they us▪d to wear for Ornaments upon their Heads.

They have another Tradition, that this Province of Jucatan was first Inha∣bited, and Cultivated by a White-Bearded People, that came from the East; after being toss'd many Moons upon the Sea, and suffering many Hardships for Want of Food and Fresh Water, and other Ne∣cessaries; yet reliev'd from Want and their Enemies, through the Power of the Deity they Worship'd, who even com∣manded the Sun to Shine, or not Shine; who made it Rain or dry Weather; who could heal Sickness, or send Distempers; in short, a God that kept all the other petty Deities in Awe.

This Story, if true, seems to confirm an old Tradition of our Welsh Chroni∣cles, that tell us of one Madoc ap Owen, Son to Guineth, a Prince of that Coun∣try, who was drove by some Disgust, from his own Country, with several Com∣panions, who after various Adventures at Sea, were driven on an unknown Land to the West, many Hundred Leagues,

where they had Communication in a friendly Manner, with the Indians, and made a Settlement. Whereupon Madoc ap Owen return'd for Britain again, and got to the Number of Two Thousand Men and Women, besides Children, which mix'd with the Natives, and left among 'em several of their Opinions and Man∣ners; which they retain'd till the last, when Cortez subdu'd 'em; but now, by the Cruelty of the Spaniards, the Natives are almost extinguished.

After they had feasted me for two or three Days, they sent me about with several Officers appointed by the Gover∣nour, to make a Gathering, which we did with Success; for in Three Days we had got Seven Hundred and odd Pieces of Eight: And Two Merchants there, were at the Charge of fitting up my Bark, in Or∣der to send it for my poor Companions. When it was finish'd, they gave me seve∣ral Necessaries for my self and Compani∣ons, to hearten us up; as some Bottles of fine Wines; Two Bottles of Citron-Water, for a Cordial; Chocolate, and several other useful Things: But the Dif∣ficulty

was to get Seamen to go with me: At last they remembered they had Five Englishmen that were Prisoners there, and taken in the Bay of Campeche, upon Suspicion of Piracy, but nothing could be prov'd against 'em; which they Freed without any Ransom: This did not look like Barbarity or Ill-Nature; for I receiv'd as much Humanity among 'em, as could be expected from any of the most Civiliz'd Nations: But they have a greater Kindness for the English, than they have for their Neighbours the French, being the English are more open and ge∣nerous, (they say) and don't use Strata∣gems to deceive 'em, as the French do frequently; tho' they only pay 'em in their own Coin, for there is no Nation under the Sun more fruitful than the Spa∣niards in Plottings and Ambuscades, (as they call 'em) to deceive their Enemies; which yet they think lawful.

On February the 15th, 1700. we set sail from Campeche Bay, after paying my Acknowledgment to the generous Go∣vernour, &c. but having nothing to present him with worth Acceptance, but my Ovid,

I gave him that, which he took very kindly, and said he would prize it mightily, not only in having never a one, but in Re∣membrance of me and my Misfortunes.

We ply'd it to Windward very briskly, and in Fifteen Days discover'd the Isles of the Alcranes; but we durst not go in within the Shoals, because we were all ignorant of the Channel. So we cast Anchor, and hoisted out our Boat, with Two Men and my self, and made to Shore, where we found my Three Companions, but in a miserable Condition, and Mr. Mus∣grave so faint and weak, that they ex∣pected he could not live long.

When they awak'd the next Day, af∣ter I was drove off in the Dark, they were all in Despair, to find the Vessel gone, which they perceiv'd was occasion'd by a Hurricane, that they were assur'd was violent, because it had blown down their Tent, tho' without awaking 'em. But when they began to consider they had no Food, nor but very little fresh Water, which was left in a Barrel with∣out a Head in the Tent, their Despair increas'd; but as no Passion can last long

that's violent, it wore off with their Care for Sustenance, which they diligently search'd for; but not finding any Quan∣tity of Eggs, or Boobies, the dreadful Fear of Starving came into their Minds, with all its horrid Attendance. Now they imagin'd that all that happen'd to 'em, was, as I had thought, a Judgment of Divine Providence for the vile Sin of Drunkenness, when they should have ra∣ther implor'd Heav'n's Assistance, in fur∣thering 'em in their Delivery from the Place where they were.

They had been now Five Days with∣out Eating or Drinking, not for Want of Stomachs, but Food, which they endea∣vour'd to get, but all to no Purpose; for the Boobies were retir'd, either out of Fear, or Custom, to some other Place▪ Neither could they find one Egg more, and Weakness came so fast upon 'em, with Hunger and Drought, that they were hardly able to crawl, so they thought of nothing but dying; when at last they remember'd the Body of good Mr. Randal, that had been buried a Week, which they dug up, without be∣ing

putrify'd; and that poor Wretch that help'd to support our Misfortunes when alive with his sage Advice, now was a Means of preserving their Lives, tho dead. They had by good Fortune left 'em a Tinder-Box in the Tent, (we hav∣ing two) with which they struck a Light, and made a Fire, then cut off several pie∣ces of Flesh of the Brawn of his Arms and Thighs, broil'd 'em on the Coals, tho' with a great deal of Reluctance; which was the Means of keeping Life and Soul together, till we came to relieve 'em from that deplorable Condition. Mr. Musgrave we brought to a little Life and Strength, by giving him some Citron-Water in small Quantities. When I saw the Carcass of my poor good Monitor lie for Food for Humane Creatures, my Horror at the Sight overcame my Reason, and I believe I said Things shocking enough; however when I had calmly considered their Condition, I was ve∣ry sorry for what I had said, and beg'd their Pardon. After we had refreshed our selves, we once more laid him in the Earth, having sew'd his poor Bones in one of the Hammocks.

I must confess, I never think of that good Man, but Tears come into my Eyes, and Melancholy clouds all my Thoughts: For he was one whose Cha∣racter came up to all we cou'd desire in frail Men. Honest, without Interest; Friendly, without Design; Religious, at∣tended with Reason, and not swadled up so tite as to make it deform'd: Pleasant in Conversation, Courteous to All, Ha∣ting nothing but Vice: Gentle in Re∣proving; Bold in All Dangers, in being arm'd with an Innocence that inspir'd him with Success; in short, he was a Mira∣cle of a Man, when we consider his Life had been always at Sea, among a Crew prone to all manner of Vices, and where it was not possible to find a Pattern to follow of any Goodness.

He was a single Man, or rather indeed, a Batchelor; for he had often told me, he cou'd not bear to Marry a Woman, to put her into Frights and Fears when the Wind blew hard, as every good Wife must certainly be concern'd for the Danger of her Husband. Besides, as it was his Fortune to lead a Seafaring Life, he cou'd

not think of Marrying, to be absent from his other self so long; (as he term'd it) not but if he had had a sufficient Com∣petency, he said, he believ'd he shou'd have enter'd into the Marriage State in the latter Part of Life, that he might have settl'd his Mind; and free from the Hazard and Turmoils of the Sea, slip'd into his Shrowd with Content, among his Friends and Acquaintance at Home.

He was an excellent Sailor, and knew most Parts of the World perfectly well; understood French and Spanish, and seem'd to have a pretty good Know∣ledge in the Latin Tongue. His Jour∣nals were mostly taken in Short-Hand. But he had one small Manuscript, con∣taining about Twenty Leaves, Spanish on one Side, and English on the other, all in his own Hand; which I suppose he had Translated for his Diversion, or to pass away his Leisure Hours. It was a Treatise of Herbs and Flowers, with other Rarities, to be found in the West-Indies: Which being but short, I shall give my Readers at the latter End of this Piece. On the Flat of his Book, he had

writ in a large Hand these Words. This Manuscript in Spanish, I have Transcrib'd from the Original of the Reverend Father Pedero di Riberia, of the Order of Jesus, when I was Pilot in Mexico. The Trans∣lation I have made at my Leisure Hours; and the Cures by the Simples, &c. menti∣on'd in the said Book, I have been an Eye-Witness to many of, and some were pra∣ctis'd on my self. But more of this here∣after.

We now were got on Board once again, in order to sail as soon as the Wind would rise, it being stark Calm, and continu'd so two Days; but at last it blew a little, and we weigh'd Anchor, and stood out to Sea; but made but lit∣tle Way. I now was Master, or Cap∣tain of a Ship, and began to take upon me; we were in all Nine Men, all Eng∣lish; that is, My self first, Richard White, W. Musgrave, and Ralph Middleton, my old Companions: John Stone, W. Kea∣ter, Francis Hood, W. Warren, and Jo∣seph Meadows, (All of England) the Five Men given me by Don Antonio; who, as I said before, were taken on Suspicion

of Pyracy. Whereupon a Thought came into my Head, that had escap'd me be∣fore: I consider'd if these were really Pyrates, being Five to Four, they might be too powerful for us, and perhaps murder us. Franc Hood we had made our Cook, to dress our Provision, which he understood a little. One Day we All Din'd together upon Deck, under our Awning, it being very calm Weather; an Awning is only a Sail fix'd at the Quarter-Deck, and carry'd over the Booms (that is, spare Masts that lie along from Quar∣ter to Forecastle) to the Forecastle, to keep the Sun from our Heads: in Men of War, and great Ships, they have one made of several Kinds of handsome Stuff, for the Officers on the Quarter-Deck; besides another on the Main Deck, for the Common Sailors. One Day, as I said before, being at Dinner, for we All eat together; I ask'd the five Men, what was the Reason they were taken by the Spaniards for Pyrates? Upon this they seem'd nonplus'd, but Warren soon re∣cover'd himself, as well as the rest, and spake for the others, in this Manner: We

embark'd on Board the Ship Bonaventure, in the Thames, bound for Jamaica, where we made a prosperous Voyage; but after taking in our Lading in our Way Home, we were overtaken by a Storm, in which our Ship was lost, and all the Men perish'd, but my self and Four Companions; who were sav'd in the Long-Boat: But the Reason we were taken for Pyrates was, that making to Shore to save our selves, we saw a Bark riding at Anchor, without the Port of Campeche, which we made to, in order to enquire wherea∣bouts we were, and to beg some Provisi∣ons, our own being gone, and entring the Vessel, found but two People in't; the third, jumping into the Water, swam on Shore, and brought three Boats fill'd with Spanish Soldiers, which enter'd the Vessel before we could make off. Make off! said I, what did you design to run away with the Vessel? No; answer'd Warren, with some Confusion, but we did design to weigh Anchor, and go far∣ther in Shore, that we might land in the Morning, it being late at Night; but we were prevented by their coming on

Board us, where we were found, being arm'd, which we had taken Care of, when we went into our Boat, to defend our∣selves, if we were obliged to land among the Savages: And indeed they had their Arms restor'd 'em, when they were freed and sent on Board with me.

I must confess, I did not like the Fel∣low's being nonplus'd now and then, in not knowing what to say; but upon Consideration, thought it might be for Want of Words to express himself better, which is the Occasion very often of Peo∣ple of common Understanding Stammer∣ing, and Humming, and Hawing, to put their Words in better Order; so for that Time I took no more Notice, not weigh∣ing it in my Mind. But in the Evening Mr. Middleton came to me, with a Face of Concern, and told me he did not like these Fellows Tale. Why so? says I. Because I observe they herd together, answer'd he, and are always whispering and speaking low to one another. Oh! says I, there cannot be any Danger in 'em; for if they had any Inclination to run away with our Vessel, they might

have done it when they were five to one, before we took you in. I know not, re∣ply'd Middleton, I have a Heart forebodes something. Pshaw, old Womens Fears; (said I) for, as I said before, they wou'd have don't when they had more Power; before I landed on Despair Island, (as I call'd it) if they had any such Intentions. There is a Providence that rules o'er all our Actions, (answer'd Middleton) that we can no more see into, than the Book of Fate; but if a foreboding Heart may speak, I am sure something we shall suf∣fer from these Fellows, that will be of Danger to us. If so, reply'd I, there's no resisting the Will of Providence; for what will come, will come, and there's no Fending against it: But, added he, this seems something like Fore▪know∣ledge; and to resist against that, seems like struggling against the Will of Heav'n; that warns us by these Forebodings to prevent these Accidents of Life. I be∣lieve God, pursu'd he, has fix'd a Period to our Breath; but Accidents that hap∣pen in this Pilgrimage of Life, may be avoided by a timely Notice: As we are

all Partakers of free Will, and from that, form our own Happiness, or Misery, it cannot be said but that the Actions of Life may be regulated by that free Will. Our Maker never form'd a Villain! nei∣ther does their external Parts differ from a virtuous Man's; if they did, they were to be easily avoided: But as an old Poet says, There's no Art to find the Mind's Construction in the Face.

Upon this Discourse, I began to stag∣ger in my Opinion of their Honesty, and therefore we resolv'd to stand upon our Guard. We took no Notice of our Con∣ference then to our two other Compani∣ons, but resolv'd to stay till Night, we having a better Opportunity, being we lay together in the Cabbin Aft; (which is as much as to say, in the Stern, or be∣hind) when we were to go to Supper, we call'd one another to come, but five of the Sailors excus'd themselves, by saying they had Din'd so lately, that they had no Stomach as yet; whereup∣on we had an Opportunity sooner to converse together than we design'd. For being at Supper, we open'd the Matter

to our other two Companions, and they agreed immediately that we were in some Danger; so we resolv'd in the middle Watch of the Night, to seize 'em in their Sleep. We were to have the first Watch, which we set at Eight of the Clock; then they were to Watch till Twelve; and then in their third Watch, between One and Two, we had conclu∣ded to seize upon 'em as they slept; that is, Four of 'em, for One of them watch'd with us, which was Franck Hood, the Cook; whom we agreed to seize and bind fast, towards the latter End of the Watch, and to threaten him with Death if he offer'd to make the least Noise.

As soon as ever our first Watch was set, we sent Mr. Musgrave to prepare our Arms; in about a Half an Hour, or thereabouts Warren, call'd to Hood upon Deck, (they lying below) to get him a little Water, for he was bloody dry, he said: Whereupon the other went down immediately with some Water in a Can to him. As soon as he was gone down, I had the Curiosity to draw as near the Scuttle as I could to hear the Discourse.

Now, you must know, Hood, our Cook, had been employ'd that Day about search∣ing our Provisions, our Beef Casks, and Pork, to see what Quantity we had, that we might know how long it would last; so that the others had not an Opportu∣nity to disclose the Design to him. As soon as he was got down, I cou'd hear Will Warren say to him G—d D—n ye, Franck, we had like to have been smoak'd to Day; and tho' we had con∣triv'd the Story that I told 'em, yet I was a little surpriz'd at their asking me, because then I did not expect it; but we design to be even with 'em in a very lit∣tle Time: For, hark ye, says he, and spake so low that I cou'd not hear him; upon which, the other said there's no Difficulty in the Matter; but we need not be in such Haste, for you know, as we ply it to Windward, a Day or two can break no Squares, and we can soon (after the Effecting our Design) bear down to Leeward to our Comrades that we left on Shore; for I fancy, added he, that they have some small Suspicion of you now, (which in Time will sleep)

and may be on their Guard; therefore 'tis better to wait a Day or two: No, G—d Z—ds, we'll do it too Night, when they are asleep, reply'd Warren; whereupon there were many Arguments, Pro and Con; (as I fancy'd) but they spoke so low, that I cou'd only hear a G—d D—n ye, now and then, and something of that Kind.

A little while after, Hood came up a∣gain, and after walking up and down, and fixing his Eyes often upon me, who in the mean Time was provided with a Couple of Pistols under my Watch-Coat, and indeed were their own, that we hung up ready charg'd in our Cabbin; which was one Reason of their Design to seize on us in our Sleep, being they had no Arms till they cou'd seize on 'em where they hung; or else, they were such des∣perate Fellows, they wou'd have don't in the open Day. Hood, as I said before, seem'd to fix his Eyes frequently upon me, for till now I never watch'd in the Night; at last, said he very softly, if you please, Mr. Falconer, I have a Word or two to say to you, that much con∣cerns

you All. What is it? says I. Why, answer'd He, I wou'd have the rest of your Companions, Ear Witnesses too; with that I call'd 'em together; but, says he, let's retire as far from the Scuttle as we can, that we may not be heard by a∣ny below Deck; so we went into the Cabbin, and open'd the Scuttle above, that Mr. Musgrave, who steer'd, might hear what was said. When we were sat down upon the Floor, Mr. Hood began as follows. My four Companions below have a wicked Design upon you; that is, to seize you, and put you into the Boat, and run away with your Vessel: But I thinking it an inhuman Action, not only to any one, but to you in particu∣lar, that have been the Means of their Freedom; therefore, I hope, appointed by Providence, I come to let you know it, that we may think of some Means to prevent it. Upon this, (finding his Sin∣cerity,) I told him that we were provi∣ded against it already; and with the Con∣sent of my Companions, told him our Design of seizing 'em in the third Watch; but, says he, they intend to put their

Project in Practice, their next Watch; therefore I think 'twill be more proper for us to Counter-plot 'em, and seize 'em this; but as they have no Arms, says I, and we have, we need not fear 'em.

We had several Debates about this, which took up too much Time to our Sorrow. For Warren mistrusting Hood, it seems, got up and listen'd, and when he found that we retir'd all of us to the Cabbin, he got upon Deck, and steal∣ing softly, came so close, that he over∣heard every thing we said, which as soon as he understood, he went immediately to his Companions, who waited impatient∣ly, (as they told us afterwards) and let 'em know all our Discourse; whereupon, without pausing, they resolv'd to seize us immediately, in the Midst of our Con∣sultation; which was no sooner resolv'd upon, but done: For we were immediately surpriz'd with their seizing us, which they did with that Quickness, and so unper∣ceivably, that we were all confounded and amaz'd; they had whip'd off two Pistols in our Consternation, which they clap'd to our Breasts. In this Confu∣sion,

I had forgot mine that were at my Girdle, (or else we might have been hard enough for 'em;) neither did I re∣member 'em till they found 'em about me. They had shut the Cabbin Door on the Inside, till they had bound us, and ne∣ver minded Mr. Musgrave knocking and making a Noise, till they had secur'd us. Which done, they open'd the Door, and seiz'd him, who came to know what the Matter was, for we had no Candle in the Cabbin, and he hearing a Noise amongst us, thought we were seizing Hood, and call'd to us to forbear, (as he said af∣terwards) and make Haste, for he was going to tack about, tho' we did not hear him; on which he clap'd the Helm a Lee, and came down to fetch us out, to haul off the Sheets, &c. and was seiz'd, and bound with us; for they left us immediately, being the Sails flutter'd in the Wind, by Reason she was veering round, when the Helm was a Lee.

After they had fix'd the Vessel, and it was broad Day, they came and unbound our Legs, and gave us Leave to walk upon Deck; whereupon I began to ex∣postulate

with 'em, particularly Mr. War∣ren, being he seem'd to have a sort of Command over the others. Pray, says I to him, for what Reason have you seiz'd upon us, and bound us in this Man∣ner? Have we done you any Injury? Why, says he, Self-preservation; I found you were a going to do the like by us, therefore you are but serv'd in your Kind. And what do you design to do with us, now you have your Desire? Do with you! why, by and by we design to put you in the Boat, and turn you a-drift; but for that Son of a B—h, Hood, we'll murder him without Mercy; a Dog, to betray us! How, betray you! reply'd I? Yes! for I overheard All; then related the Manner of it as mention'd above. But as you have not so much injur'd us, we'll put you immediately in the Boat, with a Week's Provisions, and a small Sail, and you shall seek your Fortune, as I suppose you wou'd have done by us. No, answer'd I, we only design'd to con∣fine you till we came to Jamaica, and there to have given you your Liberty to go where you had thought fit. Ay, ay,

says Warren, shaking his Head, this is easily said, nor are we bound to believe you. Why, 'tis plain, said I, that our consulting to seize you, was but to pre∣vent what has happen'd. We are not to enquire into the Matter, answer'd War∣ren, and now we have you in our Pow∣er, we'll do as we think fit. Why then▪ says I, put us ashore at any Land that belongs to the English, and we shall think you have not done us any Injury. No, says he, we must go to meet our Captain and Fifty Men upon the Main Land of Jucatan, where our Vessel was stranded not to be gotten off. Our first Design when we were taken in our Boat, was to get us a Vessel to go a Buccaneer∣ing, which we had done at Campeche, if it had not been for the Indian that swam a Shore unknown to us, and brought Succours too soon; which we cou'd not avoid, the Sea Breeze blowing very strong all Night; so we seeing our Dan∣ger, were forc'd to form the Lie we told the Governour, which had some Appear∣ance of Truth, for we did not use any Vi∣olence to the two old Spaniards, being by

good Words we thought to make 'em assisting to work our Bark back again to our Men. Now, pursu'd he, if you will all resolve to go a Buccaneering with us, we'll venture to carry you to our Cap∣tain and Men; if not, we'll do as we have propos'd. We looking one upon another, as if it were to know each o∣ther's Resolutions; he cry'd, nay, if you pause, you shan't have that Grace, if you desire it: Therefore prepare every Thing, pursu'd he, to one of his Companions, that they may be going, they won't be long before they come to their Journey's End.

When they had got every Thing ready, that is to say, a Barrel of Bisket, ano∣ther of Water, about half a Dozen Pie∣ces of Beef, and as much Pork, a small Kettle, and a Tinder-Box; we were bet∣ter provided than we expected, by much. Besides, they granted us Four Cutlasses, and a Fowling-Piece, with about Four Pound of Powder, and a sufficient Quan∣tity of Shot; together with all poor Mr. Randal's Journals, after their perusing 'em, and finding 'em of no Use to them:

When this was done, he order'd 'em to tie Hood to the Mast of the Vessel, and was charging a Pistol to shoot him thro▪ the Head, not considering it was charg'd before, for it was one of them I had at my Girdle, and which they took from me; but in his Eagerness and Heat of Passion did not mind it. We all intreated for the poor Fellow, and he himself fell upon his Knees, and beg'd with all the Eloquence he had, to spare him, and let him go with us; but Warren swore bitterly, nothing should save him. Says I, Mr. Warren, if you believe there is a Power that form'd this Globe, and sees every Action of Mankind, think what a Crime you commit by wounding of him, by murdering his Image: But if you're an Atheist, and believe in no Power Su∣pernatural, yet consider what a Conquest you will have gain'd over your self by overcoming this headstrong Passion. It may be your own Case another Time; and Murder you know is punish'd with Death. What the Devil have we got here, a preaching Puppy? Why, dost think that I mind thy ridiculous Cant!

prithee mind thy own Business, and get thee gone, or perhaps I may begin with you, and send you to the Devil before your Time. With that, he cock'd his Pistol, and levell'd it at Hood; but firing, it split into several Pieces, and one struck Warren into the Skull so deep, that he was breathing his last upon Deck; one of the Bullets graz'd upon the Side of my Temple, and did but just break the Skin; as for Hood, he was not hurt; but with the Fright and Noise of the Pi∣stol, (as we suppos'd) labour'd with such an Agony of Spirit, that he broke the Cords that ty'd him by the Arms, tho' as thick as a Middle Finger, and fell down; but rose immediately, and not finding himself hurt, ran to us, and un∣bound our Arms, not perceiv'd by the other two, who were busy about unfortunate Warren; and tho' they were call'd to by him that steer'd, (who ran immediately to prevent it) yet they did not mind it, they were so concern'd about Warren. And before he that steer'd came, Hood had unbound me, and stop'd the Fellow (Meadows) by giving him a Blow with his

Fist that knock'd him down. In the mean Time, I had unbound White, Mus∣grave and Middleton; and we went and seiz'd upon the other two Pyrates, for now we call'd 'em nothing else. After we had bound 'em in our Turn, we went to see what Assistance cou'd be given to Warren, where we found that a Piece of the Barrel of the Pistol had sunk into his Skull, and that he was just expiring; but yet, he sat upon his Breech with great Resolution; says he, I see you have overpower'd us, and I likewise see the Hand of Heav'n is in it. I now with Horror find (added he) that what you intimated to me about Heav'n, to be true; I see it more in this one Accident, than in all the Preachings of the Fathers. I was bred a Roman, had good Honest Parents, Romans, whose Steps, if I had follow'd, wou'd have made my Consci∣ence easy to me at this Time; but I for∣sook all Religion in general, and now too late, I find, that to dally with Heav'n is fooling ones self; but yet, in this one Moment of my Life, that's left, I hear∣tily repent of all my past Crimes, and

rely upon the Saviour of the World, that dy'd for our Sins, to pardon mine. With that, he cross'd himself, and expir'd.

I must confess, I was very sorry for the unhappy Accident of his Death; but yet, glad that we were at Liberty; and was something easy that the poor Soul repented before his Expiration; not doubting but the piercing Eye of Provi∣dence, saw that if he had surviv'd, he would have liv'd a good Christian. And sure the Almighty's infinite Stock of Bounty, has enough Mercy to save the repenting Soul, tho' late before his Re∣pentance comes.

After we had secur'd our Tartars, we threw Mr. Warren Over-board, and bore up to the Wind; for after our first tack∣ing about in the Morning, when the Bu∣stle happen'd, they bore away with Tack at Cat-head, as being for their Purpose. The three Men that were left, desir'd us to let 'em have the Boat, and go seek their Companions; which we refus'd, as not having Hands enough to carry our Vessel to Jamaica. But we promis'd 'em, if they wou'd freely work in the Voyage,

they shou'd have their intire Liberty to go where they thought fit, without any Complaints against them. Upon this, we began to be a little sociable as before, and they all declar'd, that what they did was by the Instigation of Warren.

The next Day we discover'd a Ship to Windward of us, that bore down upon us with crowded Sails. We fill'd all the Sails we had, and endeavour'd to get a∣way from her as fast as we cou'd, but all to no Purpose; we saw they gain'd upon us every Moment, and therefore seeing it was not possible for us to escape, we back'd our Sails and laid by for 'em, that they might be more civil if they were Enemies. As soon as ever they came up with us, they hail'd us, and order'd us to come on Board, which we durst not deny; when Mr. Musgrave and I, with Hood and White for Rowers, went on Board 'em. We found by Hood's knowing 'em, that they were his Cap∣tain and Comrades. Now, as Hood said, we did not know how we shou'd behave our selves, or what we shou'd say about Warren; but we only told the Captain

how we met with his Men, and that they were redeem'd upon my Account. He never ask'd particularly for Warren, but how they All did; but when they sent on Board to search our Vessel, they soon came to the Truth on't; for the o∣ther three told 'em the Story, tho' not with aggravating Circumstances: Upon which, poor Hood was ty'd to their Main∣mast, lash'd with a Cat of Nine-Tails most abominably; and after that pic∣kled in Brine, which was more Pain than the Whipping; but it kept his Back from festering, which it might otherwise have done; because they flea the Skin off at every Stroke, and to prevent it, they wash it with Brine; which is call'd Whipping and Pickeling. After this they wou'd not keep him among 'em; but sent for the other three Men from our Vessel, and order'd us all on Board, with another of their Men that was ill of a dangerous Fever, which they fear'd might prove in∣fectious. They did not take any Thing from us, as we expected at first, only gave us this sick Man to look after, which we were very well contented with.

So we parted with 'em very well satisfy'd, but much better when we were out of Sight, fearing they had forgot them∣selves, and wou'd send for us back, and take our Provision from us, or one Mis∣chief or another; for Pyrates do not often use to be so courteous.

Our sick Man mended apace, for we took great Care of him, and by keeping him low, only with Water-Gruel, his Fever left him; when I began to keep up his Spirits with my Cordials that I had by me, and in a Week's Time he was pretty hoddy, (as we call it at Sea). Now we began to converse with him, and he seem'd to be a sensible good∣humour'd Fellow.

Among other Discourse, we ask'd him how Captain M—ll and his Crew got a Ship? Says he, I can only tell the Story as I heard it; (for I was sick on Shore) which is as follows:

Sixteen of our Men got a Paragua from the Indians, who hate the Spani∣ards, tho' under their Subjection, and love the French and English very well; these set out to seize upon the first Ship

that they thought they cou'd compass; when after being five Days Cruising a∣long Shore, they spy'd a large Ship wea∣thering Cape Catoch; but believing it to be too strong for 'em, they resolv'd to work by Stratagem, thus: Twelve Men laid down in the Boat, as if very faint and weak, and made a Signal to the Ship, as if in Distress, who very charitably brought too; now they had no Arms with 'em, for when they resolv'd to use this Stratagem, they left 'em a-Shore, as making the Pretence more feasible; so that when they arriv'd at the Ship, they all went feebly up, as if not able to stand; nay, some were oblig'd to be led, forsooth, to colour the Matter the bet∣ter. They then told 'em that their Ship was cast away upon Logerhead's Key, a∣bout three Leagues from Cape Catoch, and saving themselves in their Boats, they got safe into the Cape; but that wan∣dering up in the Country, they were met by the Indians, who us'd 'em bar∣barously, killing Eleven of their Num∣ber; and wou'd have serv'd the rest so, if they had not made their Es∣cape

in that Paragua; that they were so harrass'd for want of Food, having been without eating two Days, that they fear'd some of their Companions wou'd never recover.

The poor Spaniards swallow'd the Bait, and their Captain being a very good Man, resolv'd to relieve 'em, and ask'd 'em what they wou'd have him to do for 'em? They beg'd him to land 'em on the first English Colony, or Island in their Way. He answer'd, he was bound for St. Domingo in Hispaniola; but that he wou'd put in at Jamaica, tho' something out of his Way; yet, says he, I don't care for going to any of the noted Ports, because there is a War talk'd of between Eng∣land and Spain, and tho' it was not pro∣claim'd they might meet with some Trou∣ble. They were mightily oblig'd to him, they said, but they did not know how to return the Obligation, but by praying for him and his.

They sail'd very lovingly with 'em for three or four Days, till at last For∣tune gave them an Opportunity to put their Enterprize in Execution. They

had Notice that the Ship leak'd migh∣tily, and that the Water came into the Bread-Room; upon which, the Spaniards went down to remove the Bread to get at the Leak, and did not leave more than five Men and the Captain above, whom they instantly seiz'd, and clap'd down the Hatches upon the rest. When they had se∣cur'd them, they arm'd themselves with Pistols and Launces, which were plac'd in the Steerage of the Ship, and so ca∣pitulated with 'em; but first, they steer'd their Course back again, that they might not lose any Time. As they came up, one by one, they bound them, till they were all so, but the Captain and the Pi∣lot: The Captain they confin'd to his Cabbin, with a Centry to guard him; but they let the Pilot go loose, that he might steer the Ship. O inhuman! cry'd I! thus the Snake in the friendly Bosom warm'd, turns and stings his kind Pro∣tector: Thus was their generous Host (if I may call him so) betray'd by his too much good Nature.

After they had brought the Ship safe to us, we embark'd, and put the Spani∣ards

on Shore without a Morsel to help themselves; nay, if the Indians cou'd conveniently meet with 'em, they wou'd not leave one alive. I must con∣fess, pursu'd the Man, that the barbarous Story shock'd my very Nature, and made me hate their Society; and I re∣ally believe the Abhorrence of this curs'd Action brought my Distemper upon me.

How much are some Beasts Acknow∣ledgments of Kindness more than Man? A poor Cur, fed but with a Crust a Day, will follow still the bounteous Hand that gives it. Ingratitude is the Fountain of all other Crimes, for from thence flow all the rest. But all the Knowledge some Men are endow'd with, is but to find the best Way to deceive. How happy it would be, if such Creatures cou'd shake off their Humanity, and become Beasts in Form as well as Mind; then we shou'd have a Mark to shun 'em by. Our Creator has form'd all Kind of Beasts in Shapes that tell us what they are: But Men differ in their Natures more than Beasts, or are indeed under their Hu∣man Form, the very Natures of the Brute

Creation. How many Villains, under a smooth Face and Tongue, betray their Bro∣thers? The Father cheats the Son, the Son the Father, Mothers squander the Dowry of their Daughters, and then prostitute 'em to gain 'em Bread; which is not Gain but Punishment: But Ingratitude, like Murder, meets with its Punishment on Earth, as well as in the other World; and an ungrateful Man shou'd have a Mark that all Human Society may shun him. I think the Lacedemonians us'd to punish Ingratitude with Death, as a Crime equal to Sacriledge or Parricide.

After having taken all their Men on Board, (and leaving Directions on a Bark of a Tree, for the five Men that were gone upon the same Design ano∣ther Way;) we set sail, and had not been out two Days before we met with you. Pray, says I, how came you among 'em, if you lik'd not their Design? Why, Sir, answer'd he by Accident; Em∣barking from Bermudas, bound for St. Catherines, or the Isle of Providence, we were met by this Pyrate in a Ship of

twenty Guns, and a hundred and twenty Men, who took us, and rumaging us, threaten'd to turn us a-drift without Pro∣vision, if we wou'd not embrace his De∣signs, which was Pyracy. We, rather than undergo what he threaten'd us with∣al, consented with our Tongues; but our Inclinations were far from it. And from our first being with him, we were plot∣ing to make our Escape the next Oppor∣tunity. But the other four (being but five in all in our Vessel) were unfortunate∣ly kill'd in that Engagement, where they lost their Ship. What Ship was it they fought with? Why, Sir, a Man of War of twenty six Guns, sent out on Purpose to take her; for the Captain had com∣mitted such Disorders where-ever he came, that he oblig'd the Governour of Jamaica, to send out the Ship call'd the Experiment, to cruise till she met with him; which she did about five Weeks a∣go. Our Captain, as soon as he saw her, guess'd at her Design, and resolv'd to fight her to the last; well knowing if he could take or sink her, he might be pretty secure to range where he pleas'd,

there being never another Ship of War nearer than Barbadoes; who never came so far West. After he had made a Speech to his Men to encourage them to fight it out, and told 'em their Advantage, they consented to hoist the Bloody Flag, and neither to give or take Quarter. As soon as ever the Man of War saw our Bloody Flag out, they hoisted theirs, and there ensu'd a dreadful Fight. We began about two a-Clock, and fought till dark Night, without perceiving any Advantage on either Side; and then by Consent lay by till Morning without fighting; which we did so nigh, it being calm, that we cou'd talk to one another; but we did it only in threatning Lan∣guage. As soon as the Morning dawn'd, we went to it agen, with more Fury than before, for our People fought like despe∣rate Madmen, well knowing if they shou'd be taken, they must all die. The other Ship fought with a Bravery un∣common; but I believe the Advantage was on our Side, tho' we had kill'd on Board us thirty six Men.

We fought on till Noon, when we dis∣cover'd a Ship about three Leagues to Windward of us, which bore down upon us with all the Sail they cou'd. We soon conjectur'd, they cou'd be no Friends to us, so without much Consultation, we resolv'd to run it before the Wind, with all the Sail we cou'd make; as for the Experiment we fought with, we had put it out of their Power to follow us, being we had shot their Main-Mast by the Board, so that if the other overtook us we shou'd have but one to deal with. We by good Fortune had all our Masts firm, and we out-sail'd the other Vessel; but as soon as she came up with the Ex∣periment, (who never offer'd to follow us) she laid by, as we suppose to assist her, and we observ'd thro' our Telescopes that she had Spanish Colours out.

We soon lost Sight of 'em, and then we design'd to change our Course, but were prevented by the Men discovering two Foot Water in the Hold; who cou'd not find out the Leak, tho' they search'd with all the Dilligence they cou'd. So we were oblig'd to Pump, but all that

we cou'd do, the Water still gain'd up∣on us, we resolv'd to bear away to Jucatan, a Province belonging to the Spaniards, and seek out some conve∣nient Place unfrequented by them, where we might find out our Leak, and stop it.

Notwithstanding our Labour in Pump∣ing, the Water gain'd upon us; so we put out our Long-Boat, and our Pinnace, in order to put in our Provision; which by Morning we effected, and very hap∣pily for us; for it was agreed upon all Hands, the Ship cou'd not swim above Eight Hours; and tho' we discover'd Land, and were not above six Leagues off Shore, yet we were afraid we cou'd not reach it, being the Ship was so hea∣vy with Water. So all that cou'd not swim were order'd into the two Boats, with their Arms; which held in 'em thir∣ty seven Men with Officers. They that were left on Board, had Orders to Pump as long as they cou'd, and run direct∣ly into Shore to the Leeward of Cape Catoch; but within half a League off the Place the Ship sunk, and the Men be∣took

themselves to swiming, which we met with our Pinnace, and took up.

I cannot omit one barbarous Action of the Captain's. There was five Men wounded, who beg'd to be taken into the Boat, but the Captain refus'd 'em; and this was his Reason, as he gave to us in the Boat. Says he, those five that are wounded, will take up too much Room, being they can't sit as we do, but must lie along; and another Thing is, they will take more Time in looking after, than we can well spare. Besides, as I believe they won't recover, they will be the sooner out of their Pain; and if they shou'd recover, added he, they wou'd help us to devour our Provision, which we must take particular Care of, for we know not when we shall get more. I must confess, this Usage struck me to the Heart almost, especially as to one of 'em, who seem'd to have a Sense of his Condition, and repented of all his past Crimes.

After we were on Shore, we found that we had kill'd on Board us forty three Men, be∣sides the five that our Captain barbarous∣ly

murder'd, by leaving 'em in the Ship when she sunk. Two of their Bodies were drove on Shore the next Day, but were order'd by the Captain to have Stones ty'd to their Feet, and carry'd off Shore and sunk. As soon as we had made us two Tents with Sails that were put in the Boat for that Purpose, they be∣gan to consult in what Manner they shou'd get a Ship; when one Warren pro∣pos'd to take the Boat, and four Men beside himself, with Arms, and a Week's Provision, for he wou'd not have any more, and go to the Bay of Campeache, or Campeche Town, where he did not fear getting a Vessel for their Purpose; being he said he had done so upon the like Occasion before. Whereupon the Boat and four Men were order'd for him; but he staying longer than the appoint∣ed Time, they thought some Mischance had happen'd to him, so took off their Thoughts of having any Vessel from him. One Day they spy'd a large Pa∣ragua coming towards Shore with Nine Indians, and two Spaniards in't, and finding it come so near, that they

must of Course see 'em, they immediately resolv'd either to take or kill 'em all, for fear they shou'd discover 'em to the Spaniards, before they had got a Vessel to go off again.

Tho' I must confess there was some Reason, yet I thought it barbarous to see how they murder'd the two Spaniards, and nine Indians. They put out their Pinnace and ten Men well arm'd, to go and take this Paragua; as soon as ever they were discover'd by the Indians, they jump'd Over-board, and made towards Shore; but were shot by our Men, or knock'd on the Head with the Butt-End of their Musquets. The two Spaniards had a new Kind of Death; they ty'd 'em, Breast to Breast, and their Hands behind 'em, and threw 'em Over-board; where they struggl'd for some Time, and at last were drown'd. I thought this was a Cruelty exceeding all the Tyrants in the World, and if I had had a Boat, and our People never a one, I wou'd have run any Hazard to have sav'd 'em. Their Paragua was laden with Flower, and dry'd Fish, with several Sides of dry'd

Pork, or Bacon; which was too good for the People that had it. As for my own Part, but little of it came to my Share, for I was taken ill the second Day after we came there, and so weak and feeble, that I did not expect to overcome it; and if it had not been for a Black, that was Trumpeter to the Captain, I shou'd have perish'd for want of Sustenance; but the poor Fellow frequently wou'd bring me something or other to nourish me; and it is to him, under God, that I owe my Life. He wou'd often tell me that he did not love that sort of Life, and wish'd he cou'd get rid of his Master; but, says he, if he did but know I had as much as a Thought that Way, he wou'd be the Death of me. I believe this was the only poor Fellow that pray'd in the whole Crew. He was christen'd at Ply∣mouth in England, (and had very good Notions of Religion) where he was giv∣en to his present Master, who had made several Voyages into the West-Indies, for a Plymouth Merchant; but at last find∣ing Matters on Shore go but indifferent∣ly, and having kill'd a French Officer

there, seiz'd upon the Ship he us'd to Command, and with a Crew of despe∣rate Fellows made off to Sea, and steer'd his old Course for the West-Indies, and there commenc'd Pyrate; but had met with no other Success, than what has been related to you.

Says I, this Fellow's too wicked to have Success in any Thing, especially when Success must be an Addition to his Crimes: If it were possible to know his Fate, we shou'd find that he wou'd have some desperate End: For Men when a∣bandon'd by Providence Divine, tho' perhaps they may meet with some Success at first, at last find an End that's fitted for such Wretches, who de∣ny a Superior Being; and even Athe∣ists, notwithstanding their Human Form, are no better than Brutes; nay, I take an Atheist or Deist, to have far less Right to Salvation, than those Indians that pray to the Devil; for they do it thro' Ignorance, and Worship him with a more sincere Devotion, because they know 'tis in his Power to do 'em Harm. With what a fervent Zeal wou'd they

serve the true God, if they knew (as all who profess Christianity do) that it is in his Power to bestow Blessings, even after this Life. With what Devotion they Worship the Sun, who they take to be the Superior Deity, because it makes the Earth green, and is the second Cause of all the Good they enjoy? Then, with how much more Reverence ought we to give Praise to that Power that lends Light and general Heat to that Planet? If an Atheist wou'd consider the Works of Nature justly, he would find it an Impossibility to be so any longer; and to fancy this World was form'd by Chance or Accident, is to allow Beasts the Privileges of Nature and Reason, to as great a Degree as we that pretend to Humanity.

John Rouse was the Name of this Sail∣or we took on Board, born at Bermudas. He offer'd us some Proposals if we wou'd go along with him thither; but I de∣clin'd it, as wanting to be with my old Ship's Crew, and thought of seeing my own Country again, as I believe all Travellers have, who bring nothing

Home but Misfortunes, or the Vices of the Places they have travel'd thro'. From this Man, said Rouse, I had the following short Description of Bermudas, or the Summer Islands.

Bermudas, (the Place of my Birth) or the Summer Islands, is suppos'd by some, to take its Name of Bermudas from cer∣tain Black Hogs that came out of a Spanish Ship that was cast away on those Shores. And by others from one John Bermudas, a Spaniard, the first Discover∣er of the Islands. The Name Summer Islands, is deriv'd from George Summers, an English Man, who suffer'd Shipwreck there. They are situated in thirty two Degrees, and twenty five Minutes of Northern Latitude; Sixteen Hundred Leagues from England; Twelve Hun∣dred from Madera; Four Hundred from Hispaniola; and about Three Hundred from Boston in New England. The Spa∣niards had it first, and after them the French; but the Supplies that were sent 'em from France miscarrying by Ship∣wreck, they were oblig'd to abandon the Islands. After this, one Wing field, a

Merchant in London, sent in two Ships, Captain Gosnel and Smith, with People to settle there; but there was not much done till 1612. when a Company was Establish'd at London by Letters Patents, given by King James the first, who im∣mediately sent Captain Moor with sixty five Men, where he was two Years in fortifying the Islands against the At∣tempts of any Invasion from either French, Spaniards, or Indians. In the mean Time a sort of Rats so increas'd, that they de∣vour'd every Thing that was Green in the whole Island, and had like to have starv'd the Inhabitants, if Providence had not timely sent a Disease among 'em that consum'd 'em All. In about three Years after the first Plantation by Cap∣tain Moor, there was sent 'em another Supply of Men and Provision, by Cap∣tain Bartlet, who return'd with a Hun∣dred Weight of Ambergreese. The next Year, there arriv'd five hundred Men and Women, with Tradesmen of all Sorts. In 1616. one Tuckard succeeded in the Government, and was very serviceable to the Plantation, in bringing and plant∣ing

several Trees, and Tobacco. He al∣so divided the Country into Acres, and parcell'd it out to the Tenants. It en∣creas'd daily in Culture and Inhabitants. The Form of the Islands as they lie, re∣sembles something of a Lobster with its Claws off. The Chief of the I∣slands is call'd George Island, and is di∣vided into Eight Parts, besides the Ge∣neral Land. 1. Hamilton Tribe; 2. Smith's Tribe; 3. Devonshire Tribe; 4. Pembroke Tribe; 5. Paget's Tribe; 6. Warwick Tribe; 7. Southampton Tribe; 8. Sandy's Tribe. The Islands are all surrounded by Rocks, that at High-Water are dan∣gerous to Strangers. The Chief Har∣bours are Southampton, Harrinton, and the Great Sound. Upon St. George's Island, they have built several large and strong Forts, whose Chief are Warwick and Dover Forts. The Soil in some Places is Sandy or Claye; and in other Places Ash-colour'd, White, and Black; about two Foot deep under the Ash, is found great Slates, which the Inhabitants make use of several Ways; and under that Black is found a Stony Substance▪

something like a Spunge, or Pummice-Stone. The Wells, and Pits, Ebb and Flow with the Sea, yet produce excel∣lent fresh Water. The Sky is generally serene; but when 'tis o'er-cast they have dreadful Thunder and Lightning. The Air is much the same as with you in England. They have two Harvests in the Year: They Sow in March, and Reap in June; then they Sow in August, and Gather in January: And from that Month till May, the Whales frequently swim by them. They often find great Quanti∣ties of Ambergreece, and sometimes Pearl Oysters. No venomous Creature▪ will live in any of the said Islands. The yel∣low large Spiders have not the least Ve∣nom in 'em. There's Plenty of all Sorts of Cattle, both Wild and Tame, especially Hogs, who have mightily encreas'd since their first Landing; but they are not al∣together so fat as we could wish, feed∣ing only on Berries that fall from the Palmeto-Trees, which are very sweet. There's Plenty of Mulberies, both White and Red, which produce prodigious Numbers of Silk-Worms; who spin Silk

of the Colour of the Berry. The Trees are here of different Kinds; the Cedar is reckon'd the Largest in the Universe. The Leaves are downy, and prickly at the End: The Berries that it produceth are of a pale Red which inclose four White Kernels; the Outermost Skin is sweet; the Innermost that contains the Kernel, is sharp; and the Pulp is tartish. The Tree is always flourishing, being at the same Time full of Blossoms, green, and ripe Fruit. The Berries when ripe begin to gape, and fall off in Rainy Weather; leaving a round Stalk on the Boughs, which loses not its Rind till that Time two Years after. The Berry requires one Year before it comes to its full Ripe∣ness, which happens about December. The Boughs shoot upwards, and in a little Time are so heavy, that they weigh down the Body of the Tree. There are many Plants, as the Prickle Pear, Poyson Weed, Red Weed, Purging Bean, Red Pepper, and the Costive Tree, and the Sea Feather, which grows on the Brink of the Sea. There is another Plant call'd Nuchtly, which grows in

the Niches of the Rocks, wash'd by the Waves of the Sea, and produces a Fruit like a Pear, which they call the Speckl'd Pear, from its Spots. For Fowls, we have all Sorts that England produces, besides a great Number of Cranes, larg∣er than any I have seen elsewhere; with a sort of Fowl that lives in Holes in the Rocks, like Rabbets. As for Tortoises, they are as good there as any where▪ They catch them in this Manner; they watch for 'em at Night, when they come on Shore to dig Holes to bury their Eggs in; while they are doing of it, they turn 'em on their Backs, and not being able to get upon their Legs again, they are easily taken. Some will have a Hundred Eggs in 'em about as big as a common Tennis-Ball, and very round; but a thin Skin, and the Yolk lies on the Side of the Skin, or Shell, and may be seen on the Out-side: These hidden in the Sand, are nourish'd by the Sun, and never minded by the Tortoise that lays 'em; and as soon as ever they have broke the Shell, they all run into the Sea. Some say they are full six Years a

Hatching. They are excellent Meat, (for I can't call 'em Fish) and very nourishing, and we use the Oyl instead of Butter, which will keep longer, and is reckon'd much wholesomer for many Uses. Be∣sides, it is good to bathe, the Place that is stung by a little Insect, call'd Musket∣to. The Largest of these Islands, is Long Island; the next, St. George's Island; af∣ter that, Somerset, and St. David's; next, Hibernia, or Ireland Island; then Long∣berd, Cooper's, and Smith's Island; Non∣such Gates; and the Brothers Island; with many others as well inhabited, and provided with every Thing for the Life of Man; which is elegantly describ'd by your English Poet, Mr. Edmund Waller.

Bermudas, wall'd with Rocks, who does not know That happy Island where huge Lemons grow, And Orange Trees, which golden Fruit do bear? Th' Hesperian Garden boasts of none so fair. Where shining Pearl, Coral, and many a Pound, On the rich Shore, of Ambergreese is sound. The lofty Cedar, which to Heav'n aspires, The Prince of Trees is Fewel for their Fires:

The Smoak, by which their loaded Spits do turn, For Incence might on Sacred Altars burn: Their private Roofs, on Od'rous Timber born, Such as might Palaces for Kings adorn. The sweet Palmettos, a new Bacchus yield, With Leaves as ample as the broadest Shield: Under the Shadow of whose friendly Boughs, They sit Carowzing where their Liquor grows. Figs there unplanted thro' the Fields do grow, Such as fierce Cato did the Romans show; With the rare Fruit inviting 'em to spoil▪ Carthage, the Mistress of so rare a Soil. The naked Rocks are not unfruitful there, But at some constant Seasons e'ery Year, Their Barren Tops with luscious Food abound, And with the Eggs of various Fowls are crown'd. Tobacco is the Worst of Things, which they To English Landlords as their Tribute pay: Such is the Mould, that the Blest Tenant feeds On precious Fruits, and pays his Rent in Weeds: With candy'd Plantanes, and the juicy Pine, On choicest Melons, and sweet Grapes they dine, And with Potatoes, fat their wanton Swine. Nature these Cates with such a lavish Hand Pours out among 'em, that our coarser Land Tastes of their Bounty, and does Cloth return, Which not for Warmth, but Ornament is worn: For the kind Spring, which but salutes us here, Inhabits there, and courts them all the Year;

Ripe Fruits and Blossoms on the same Trees live, At once they promise, what at once they give. So sweet the Air, so moderate the Clime, None sickly lives, or dies before his Time. Heav'n sure has kept this Spot of Earth uncurst, To shew how all Things were created first. The tardy Plants in our cold Orchard plac'd, Reserve their Fruit for the next Age's Taste: There a small Grain in some few Months will be A firm, a lofty, and a spacious Tree: The Palma Christi, and the fair Papah, Now but a Seed, (preventing Nature's Law) In Half the Circle of the hasty Year Project a Shade, and lovely Fruits do wear. And as the Trees in our dull Region set, But faintly grow, and no Perfection get; So in this Northern Tract, our hoarser Throats Utter unripe, and ill-constrained Notes: While the Supporter of the Poet's Stile, Phoebus, on them eternally does smile. O! how I long my careless Limbs to lay, Under the Plantane's Shade—

There is now in the Islands of Bermu∣das, near Forty Thousand Inhabitants, most English. The Laws are the same as in England. The Religion and Di∣vine Worship the same. There are Three and Twenty Parish Churches, besides

Chappels. In the Year 1616, five Sea∣men set sail from thence in an open Ves∣sel of about Three Tun, and after hav∣ing suffer'd several Storms and Tempests, were safely landed at Kingsale in Ireland. The French and Spaniards have made se∣veral Attempts upon those Islands; but always were drove away with considera∣ble Loss.

About a Month before I embark'd for this unfortunate Voyage, we took a French Pyrate, who was so insolent as to come into Harrinton's Sound, even at Noon-Day, and cut the Cables of a Merchant-man, richly laden, bound for England; but by good Fortune run up∣on the Flats in the Mouth of the Sound, in going out again: So we had Time to Man some Boats with some of the Soldi∣ers of the Garrison, and send to their Relief, where there happen'd a desperate Fight for some Time; but more Forces going to the Assistance of the others, they took 'em after an obstinate Resist∣ance, killing twenty seven of their Men, and losing eleven of our own. The Captain made his Escape in his Boat,

in the latter End of the Engagement, when he perceiv'd his Danger; but was o∣blig'd to go on Shore on Ireland Island for some Provision, where he, and four Men that were with him, were secur'd, and sent to Tucker's Town; where they were to be try'd the Day I came a∣way.

Two Nights after we had parted with the Pyrate, we were encounter'd with a dreadful Storm, that lasted two Days without abating; and out poor Bark, which was none of the best, was tumbl'd and toss'd like a Tennis-Ball, yet we receiv'd no Damage, but that she wou'd not answer the Helm; so that we were oblig'd to let her go before the Tempest, and trust to the Mercy of Heav'n for Relief. This Storm and the Danger we had escap'd from the Pyrate, put me in Mind of these four Lines of the foremention'd Poet, the celebrated Waller.

Bold were the Men, which on the Ocean first Spread their new Sails, when Shipwreck was the Worst. More Danger now from Man alone we find, Than from the Rocks, the Billows or the Wind.

We, in the Middle of the Storm dis∣cover'd Land right a Head, which put us all into our Pannicks; we endeavour'd to bring our Vessel to bear up to the Wind, but all to no Purpose; for she still drove nearer the Shore, where we disco∣ver'd several Tokens of a Shipwreck, as Pieces of broken Masts, and Barrels swiming on the Water, and a little far∣ther Mens Hats; then we began to think we shou'd certainly run the same Fate, when as soon as thought our Bark was drove on Shore, in a smooth sandy Bay, but where we had Opportunity to quit her, which was happy for us; for the Sea wash'd over her with such Violence, we had not any Hopes of her escaping the Storm, but thought of Course we shou'd be torn to Pieces.

When we were a-Shore, we all con∣cluded it cou'd be no other Part but the South of Cuba Island, belonging to the Spaniards. We were then in a terrible Fright, lest we were near any Part that belong'd to the Indians; for Mr. Mus∣grave assur'd me, that there were some Parts of the South▪Side of Cuba, that In∣dians

dwelt in, in Spite of the Spaniards, and Massacre'd them where-ever they met 'em, or any other Whites. We lay all Night in terrible Fear, and tho' we found the Storm abated, or rather a Calm succeeded, yet we durst not stir till the Moon rose, and then we all walk'd towards our Vessel, which we found all on one Side; but by good For∣tune most of our Provisions was dry, which mightily rejoyc'd us; but all the Vessel's Riging and Masts were shatter'd and torn to Pieces, and some Part of her Quarter wrung off, that she cou'd not be of any Use to us if we cou'd have got her upright. But we took out all our Pro∣vision, and our Arms, with two Barrels of Gun-Powder that was dry, the rest being damag'd with Water and Sand that had got in. We had Arms enough, as having them that belong'd to the three Sailors that were taken in the Pyrate, which we suppos'd they had forgot; so we were six Men well arm'd, with each a Musquet, a Case of Pistols, and a Bay∣onet; beside two Cutlasses, if Need were.

By that Time we had taken every Thing out, Day approach'd, and then we design'd altogether, well arm'd, to go and view the Country. John Rouse was very well recover'd of his Fever, but a little weak, yet his Heart was as good as the Best of us. So we resolv'd if we were set upon by Indians, to defend our selves to the last Drop of Blood, chu∣sing rather to die by their Hands in Fight, than to be tortur'd after the Man∣ner as they inflict upon all the Whites they get into their Hands. But still we had some Hopes that we were too far to∣wards the Northward for 'em.

When we had plac'd our Provision and other Necessaries safe behind a Tuft of Trees that grew close by the Water Side, we fix'd our Arms, and ventur'd to walk up in the Country, which we did almost every Way that Day, four or five Miles; but cou'd not discover any Living Crea∣ture, nor any Sign of Inhabitants, only in one Place the Grass seem'd to be late∣ly troden, but whether by Man or Beast we cou'd not discover; so being pretty well tir'd, we went back again to our

Station, where we eat heartily, and at Night we laid our selves upon the Grass, and fell asleep, for we durst not lie upon the Sails we had got for that Purpose, being they were not dry, tho' spread all Day long.

I was awaken'd the next Morning by a Company of Lizards creeping over me, which is an Animal frightful enough to look at, but very Harmless, and great Lovers of Mankind; they say, that these Creatures, if a Person lies asleep, and any voracious Beast, or the Al∣ligator, which comes on Shore often, is approaching the Place where you lie, will crawl to you as fast as they can, and with their forked Tongues tickle you till you awake, that you may avoid by their timely Notice the coming Danger. I got up, being rowz'd by these Ani∣mals, and look'd about me, but saw no∣thing but an odd Kind of a Snake about two Foot long, having a Head some∣thing like a Weesel, and Eyes fiery like a Cat's; as soon as it spy'd me it ran a∣way, and my Dog after it, but he did not kill it; but I believe put it in a ter∣rible

Fright, for it made a Noise some∣thing like a Weesel, but louder, which awaken'd my Companions. When I told Mr. Musgrave what I had seen, he said it was a small Serpent, but not very hurt∣ful, call'd the Guabiniquinaze Serpent, from eating a little Creature of that Name, something resembling a small Mole; and the Indians and Spaniards eat of 'em, and reckon 'em dainty Food.

We now resolv'd for another Walk, to discover what Inhabitants were our Neighbours, whether Indians or Spani∣ards; if Indians, we design'd to patch up our Boat, which had several Holes in't, and make off as fast as we cou'd, and Row Northward, till we came to some Place inhabited by Spaniards. But if we found the Latter, to beg Protecti∣on, and some Means to get to Jamaica; whereupon we ventur'd out with these Resolutions. We met with several fine large Cedar Trees, and one particularly so large, that Mr. Musgrave and I cou'd but just fathom it with our Hands joyn'd.

We had not gone far before my Dog be∣gan to bark, when turning my Head on one Side, I beheld a Black approaching towards us, and being startled at the Sight, I cock'd my Piece, and resolv'd to fire at him; but he call'd to me in English, and told me he did not come to do any Harm, but was a poor distress'd Englishman, that wanted Food, and was almost starv'd, having eat nothing but Wild Fruit for four Days. Upon that I let him come near, where he was soon known by Mr Rouse to be Willam Ply∣mouth, the Black that was Trumpeter to the Captain that commanded the Pyrate Ship. Upon his knowing him, we sat down and gave him some Provision, which we had brought with us, because we design'd to be out all Day.

After he had refresh'd himself a little, we ask'd him how he came into this I∣sland? Why, answer'd he, we were Crui∣sing about Cuba, in Hopes of some Spa∣nish Prize, when a Storm arose and drove us upon a Rock, where our Ship was beat to Pieces, and not above Eighteen Men sav'd beside the Captain. And did

that wicked Wretch escape the Ship∣wreck? Yes, answer'd Plymouth, but to undergo a more violent Death. For, says he, as soon as ever we landed, we wander'd up in the Country to see for some Food, without any Weapons but a few Cutlasses, having lost our first Arms; but however we all got something or other to defend our selves on Shore, as long Clubs, which we got from the Trees we found in our Walks; our Captain resolv'd if he met with any Indians or Spaniards Huts, that he wou'd murder all that he found in 'em, for fear they shou'd make their Escape, and bring more up∣on us. Thus he encourag'd his Men to follow him with their Clubs; says he, we will walk till we find fome beaten Path, and there lie hid till Night, when we may go on to some Houses, and come upon 'em undiscover'd; by which Means we may get Provision and other Arms: For the Indians of Cuba use Fire-Arms as well as the Spaniards, and are full as dexte∣rous in using 'em as any Europeans, &c. After travelling about ten Miles to the N. W. we discover'd a Path, upon which a Halt was commanded, and to retire in

to the Woods again till Night; which we did, and din'd upon what Fruits we cou'd get upon the Trees.

About two Hours before Night a Dog smell'd us out, and running away from us, bark'd most furiously; upon that we were afraid of being discover'd, which Fear prov'd true; for in Half an Hour, or thereabouts, after the Dog left us, we were saluted with several Ar∣rows and Musquet-Shot, that kill'd us three Men, and wounded me in the Foot, but it prov'd the Means of saving my Life: For as soon as our Men perceiv'd what had happen'd, they ran as hard as they cou'd to meet the Danger, as knowing they cou'd do no Good till they came to Handy-Blows; I, in endeavouring to follow 'em, found my Hurt, which pre∣vented my keeping up with the rest; but I cou'd hear and see 'em at it: There was about Two Hundred Indians set up∣on our Men, and in about Half an Hour kill'd 'em every One. I saw the Cap∣tain lay about him desperately, but at last fell, being run thro' the Throat with a Wooden Stake. As soon as ever they had

conquer'd 'em. or rather murder'd 'em, they fell to striping of 'em as fast as they cou'd, and carry'd 'em off, together with their own Dead, which were many, for the English sold their Lives very dearly.

After they were all gone, which I sound by their Screeming and Noise at a Distance, I ventur'd to steal out from be∣hind a Row of Bushes, where I had plac'd my self to see what had happen'd; I went to the Place of Battle, where I found two of our Men that they had left, with all their Arms, and some of their own; so I took up one of their best Musquets, and a Cutlass, and made far∣ther into the Wood, for fear of being caught; which I had certainly been, if I had staid a Quarter of an Hour longer, for I soon heard 'em come Hooping, Scream∣ing and Hollowing back, to fetch the o∣ther two Bodies, and their Arms, as I conjectur'd.

I walk'd as far as my hurt Foot wou'd let me that Night, and out of Danger of the Indians as I thought, and then lay'd me down to sleep as well as I cou'd, be∣ing

very hungry, and sadly tir'd, and slept pretty well till Morning, when I proceeded forward in my painful Jour∣ney, and directed my Course N. E. think∣ing that was the best Way to avoid the In∣dians, and probably to meet with some Spa∣niards, whom I knew inhabited towards the North; the Havanna the Capital City of the whole Island being seated there. I wander'd for four Days, eating nothing but Fruit in the Woods; but laying my self down about an Hour ago, to rest my self a little, I thought I heard the Tongues of Englishmen, which to my great Joy prov'd true. I left my Mus∣quet behind the Bushes, for fear of a∣larming you; but now after returning God and you Thanks for this time∣ly Nourishment, I'll go and fetch it, which he did; and we might easily know it to be an Indian Piece, for they had rudely carv'd it all over with several Figures of Birds and Beasts.

Now, said I to my Companions, you see the Reward of Wickedness. He was not suf∣fer'd by Providence to go on long in his Crimes, tho' some are that are inur'd to Ills;

yet they are overtaken at last, when their Crimes are full blown; for tho' Justice has Leaden Feet, yet they always find he has Iron Hands: And we too often see that he who kills his Adversary in a Du∣el, tho' he escape the Law, one time or other meets the same Fate himself.

After poor Plymouth had refresh'd him∣self, we set forward, and walk'd along till we came to a Road that seem'd to be a Main Road of the Island, by the Large∣ness. Here we consulted what we shou'd do, whether we shou'd go on, or return for more Provision; but we re∣solv'd to go a little Distance from the Road, for fear we shou'd meet with more of the Indians, and run the same Fate with the other Englishmen. But Ply∣mouth told us, we were a great way from that Place where his Countrymen were kill'd; (for Plymouth, tho' born in Gui∣nea, wou'd always call himself an English∣man, as being brought over very young,) so we resolv'd one and all to venture.

We sent up our Prayers to the Almigh∣ty for our Safety, and went on with a Faith that we shou'd come off with Success;

but we had not gone far when we heard the Reports of several Musquets, and shouting in a barbarous Manner, behind us. Looking that Way, we saw a Mu∣latto riding as fast as ever his Mule cou'd carry him; when he came up to us, he stop'd, and cry'd in Spanish, Make haste, run, for the Indians are coming upon you, they have kill'd several Spaniards already, and they are fighting with them. Mr. Mus∣grave, who understood Spanish very well, interpreted what he said to us; he ask'd him how far they were off? He answer'd just by, and hearing another Shout, put Spurs to his Mule, and left us in an In∣stant. We found by the Shouting and the Firing, that they wou'd be immedi∣ately upon us, so we retir'd out of the Road to let 'em pass, and laid down up∣on our Bellies that they might not dis∣cover us. Immediately came by about twenty Spaniards on Horseback, pursu'd by near a hundred Indians: Just as they came by us one Spaniard drop'd, and crept in∣to a Bush on the other Side of the Road; and presently the Indians follow'd, shout∣ing in a horrid Manner, and overtook

the Spaniards again, who being very swift on Foot, out-run an ordinary Horse; and they had thrown away their Fire-Arms, to make them the lighter to run, as we suppos'd. The Spaniards knew they wou'd soon overtake 'em, so only run to charge their Pistols, and stand till they came up; then discharge 'em, to put 'em in Confusion; and run again, to prolong the time, in Hopes of some Aid. All this we un∣derstood by the Spaniard, that crept into the Bush undiscover'd by the Indians, by Reason of the Horses Feet, and the Dust to∣gether, he being the Foremost in Flight. He told us moreover that about three Leagues farther, there was a Fort belonging to the Spaniards to stop the Indians, they using to make Inroads before that Fort was built, even to the Gates of the Ci∣ty Havanna. Upon this we consulted and resolv'd to follow, upon the Edge of the Road, to see how we cou'd be as∣sisting; we soon came even with 'em, for they were in a narrow Place, and the Spaniards kept 'em at Bay pretty well; by good Fortune there was a high Hedge made by Trees all along as we went,

which hinder'd us from being discover'd. Here we resolv'd to fire upon 'em all to∣gether, and then run further up, and if possible get out into the Road and face 'em. Accordingly we agreed to fire four, and three, and the first four to charge again immediately. Mr. Musgrave, Mr. Middleton, Mr. White and my self agreed to fire first; then Hood, Rouse and Ply∣mouth; which as soon as we had taken good Aim we did, and firing at their Backs, kill'd four downright, and wound∣ed several, for I had order'd 'em to put two Bullets into each Piece. As soon as ever we had fir'd our Musquets, we let fly one Pistol each, and then the o∣ther three fir'd their Guns. As soon as Ply∣mouth had fir'd, he ran and charg'd our four Guns, (he having never a Pistol) and then we let fly our other Pistols. With these Discharges we had kill'd at least fifteen Indians, and put the rest in∣to such Frights that they began to run; (for with the Dust and Bustle they made, they cou'd hardly distinguish from whence the Fire came) neither did they stop till they met with the poor wounded Spani∣ard,

who had crept out, hearing the Discharge of our Pieces, (as we suppos'd) they fell upon the poor Fellow with Shouts and Outcries, and tore him to pieces, never minding the Spaniards pur∣suing 'em; who cry'd Miracalo! Miraca∣lo! a Miracle! a Miracle! By this Time we got within twenty Yards of the End of the Hedge, where we Seven fir'd our Musquets, and left 'em to Plymouth to charge; then we ran in upon 'em with our Pistols, and discharg'd 'em close upon 'em. With this last Fire we drop'd 'em twelve Men, and they scream'd out, and ran away as fast as they cou'd. We did not think fit to follow 'em, for it was not to any Purpose, being they were soon out of Sight. We charg'd our Guns and Pi∣stols again, and the twelve Spaniards did the like, they having Nine in the last Conflict kill'd, and two desperately wounded. They gave us Thanks for our Rescue, and said we were surely sent from Heav'n to their Relief; they let us know they were Tax-gatherers for the King of Spain, and were oblig'd to go in Numbers, and well arm'd, for fear of

these desperate Indians; who, about nine Years ago, set upon 'em and kill'd Eigh∣teen of 'em, and but two escap'd; but never met with any Molestation from that Time till now; so that this Time (thinking the Danger over) we lessen'd our Number from Fifty to Thirty, which I suppose the Indians having Notice of, was the Occasion of their setting upon us. They said it was to no Pur∣pose for to go back, for the rest of their Companions that were kill'd, which being a Mile of, they had taken with 'em.

We had not gone above half a League onward, but we heard dreadful Shout∣ings as before, and looking behind us, it being a strait Road, we cou'd perceive a Cloud of Dust, and the Indians running full Speed towards us. Upon which, we put down our two wounded Men that were on Horseback, and mounted upon the Spaniards spare Horses. Now we being nineteen Horsemen, resolv'd to stand it: We divided into Ranks, four in a Rank, which made five Ranks; only there was but three in the last Rank. So we resolv'd to keep directly one behind the other, and when the first File had

fir'd to fall in the Rear, and charge a∣gain. The Spaniards wou'd make up the three first Ranks, as they said they cou'd not in Honour expose us to the first On∣set, being we ventur'd our Lives in com∣ing to their Assistance. We had no Time to dispute for now they were just upon us, and to our Surprize had several Fire Arms among 'em. As soon as they got within a Hundred Paces of us they fir'd, but not above two of their Pieces went off, the rest were clog'd with Dust in running, that very happily for us hin∣der'd their Discharging. The Shot miss'd us by Providence, and we wou'd not give 'em Time to charge again, but we mov'd forward and fir'd in upon 'em, and did great Execution; when it came to our Turn to fire, we in the Heat forgot our Orders, but after we had discharg'd our Guns and Pistols, we fell in with 'em with our Cutlasses, and being rais'd a∣bove 'em by being on Horseback, did great Execution; and that with the Spa∣niards charging and firing again, put 'em to the Rout; but now we follow'd 'em being on Horseback, and dispers'd 'em

so that it was impossible for 'em to rally any more that Night. However we took four of 'em Prisoners, and tying their Hands behind 'em, fasten'd 'em to two of our foremost Horses, the rest following after, that they might not get Loose.

We were met in the Road by twenty Spanish Horse, with each a Foot-Soldier behind 'em, who were upon the full Gal∣lop to our Assistance, being alarm'd by the Mulatto that rode by; but I believe some were glad they came too late. The Officer and the rest saluted us very courteously, when they heard how lucki∣ly we came to their Assistance; but fell a whipping the poor naked Indians so barbarously, that tho' they deserv'd it, I cou'd not bear to see it done in cold Blood, and tho' the Blood follow'd every Lash, yet they never cry'd out. This is the chief Cause of the Hatred of the Indians, when ever the Spaniards get any of 'em in their Power, they put 'em to all man∣ner of Torture; but if, on the contrary, they would use 'em civilly, and dis∣charge 'em now and then, I am sure they might live in perfect Friendship with 'em:

For the Indians are good-natur'd, loving and affable, till they are incens'd, and then they are implacable.

We arriv'd at the Fort about Evening, and were very well entertain'd. The Officer did not doubt but to procure us a Ship▪ to transport us to Jamaica, tho' they had Orders from Havanna to secure all English Vessels, there being a War talk'd of between the Spanish, and French, and English, and Dutch. The next Day the Officer mightily brag'd of being an old Spaniard, that is, born in Spain, and of an ancient Family; and Mr. Musgrave made us very merry upon the Road, in interpreting the Don's Speeches. We found all along from the Fort, a great many Gentlemens Houses pleasantly situ∣ated, and the Country all along yield∣ing delightful Prospects.

We were well entertain'd at a Gentle∣man's House at Dinner, with Provisions dress'd after the English Way, and all manner of Sweetmeats and cool Wines. The Gentleman had a Vault or Cellar thirty Foot deep under Ground. He spoke pretty good English, and had been

a Factor several Years in London, and knew our Customs and Manners very well, and prefer'd our Way of dressing Victuals before their own. He had an English Cook from a Tavern behind the Royal-Exchange, that he brought with him into Spain, and from thence to Cuba, where he had a vast Estate left him. His Cook's Name was Hodges, a good understanding Fellow, and made very much of us, and wou'd fain have had us to stay with his Master longer. But as soon as we had din'd, we were oblig'd to get on Horseback, and away for the Havanna, which we reach'd about six a-Clock in the Evening. We had Rooms alloted us, and several English and Irish Men came to see us, that liv'd there.

Havanna is the Capital City of the whole Island of Cuba, and has as great a Trade as any Place belonging to the Spaniards in the West-Indies. It has one of the finest Harbours in the Universe, not for its Greatness, but its Security, yet able to contain five hundred Ships of the greatest Burthen. The Mouth of

the Harbour is commanded by a Plat∣form, and a square Fort, fasten'd toge∣ther by a strong Boom, or Iron Chain, that no Ship can enter. The most shal∣low Part of the whole Harbour, is eight Fathom Water, and all its Banks is pav'd round with flat Stone, so that a Vessel of a Thousand Tun may lay her Side to it and unlade. Just between the two Forts there stands a round Water Tower, where they discover to the Town how many Vessels are coming towards the Harbour by putting out a Flag for eve∣ry Ship. This Place is the best fortify'd and garrison'd in all the Indies, to secure the Plate Fleet, and all other Ships that meet here, to set Sail altogether for Spain. This City is very large, near as big as Bristol in England, and the Hou∣ses are handsomely built, but after the Spanish Fashion. There are Two hand∣some Churches, fine, and well built, with Spires, and an Organ in each, be∣sides several Chappels; and a Foundati∣en laid for a third Church while we were there. This City almost as soon as it was built, was sack'd by a French

Pyrate in the Year 1536, who was dri∣ven thither by a Tempest, and landing his Men well arm'd, took the City in Spite of all their Resistance, and burnt many of the Houses, they being most part Wood; and had consum'd 'em all, had not the Spaniards redeem'd the rest by paying 'em a Thousand Ducats. Upon the receiving of the Money, they made out to Sea, and the same Evening came into the Havanna three Ships from Spain, who hearing of what had chanc'd, prepar'd to follow 'em, taking several Soldiers on Board 'em; the Admiral, who sail'd best, got the first Sight of the Frenchman; but being fearful to attack him before the other Ships came up, lay by. The Frenchman seeing that, boldly set upon the first Ship, and took her without fighting; the second, seeing that, tack'd about, and ran a-Shore, which was taken by the Ship's Boat; the third also run the same Fate. Flush'd with this Success, they return'd to the Havan∣na the second time, and exacted a Thousand Ducats more, or else they threaten'd to level the City with the Ground, which

was paid 'em immediately. Then they took their last Leave, with this rich Booty, and sail'd for Rochel in France, where they shar'd their Prizes. After this they built their Houses with Stone, as they are now, which nevertheless the English took about twelve Years af∣ter.

There are many fair Harbours besides the Havanna, in Cuba, as that of St. Jago City and Harbour, which is a handsome Place, seated on the South of the Island, and is also a Bishop's See under the Archbishoprick of St. Domin∣go. Three Leagues from St. Jago lies those famous Copper Mountains, call'd by the Spaniards, Sierra de Cobre. There's another Town and Harbour situated on the Eastern Part of Cuba, call'd Baracoa, where they gather the best Ebony of all the Indies. There's many other good ones, as St. Salvador, Trinedad, Puerto del Principe, which has a Fountain near it, that some times of the Year produces Liquid Pitch.

Cuba was formerly divided into Eight Provinces and Governments, and better

Peopl'd than any other Island in America, before the Spaniards invaded 'em; but now there are but few Indians, which inhabit several Parts of the Island unmo∣lested by the Spaniards; but the Natives can never forget their Barbarity, which they have by Tradition from Father to Son. Nay, I have been inform'd that they keep a solemn Festival once a Year, which was the Time that the Massacre of the Indians happen'd; and if they can get any Spaniards, they sacrifice 'em to satisfy the Manes of their dead Ance∣stors.

Hugh Linscoten, the French Voyager, relates that a Cassick, or one of the Lords of a Province, caught a Spani∣ard at their first Landing, and threw him into a River, to see if he wou'd drown, which he did, and that satisfy'd him they were not Immortal. Whereupon he encourag'd his Men, and repuls'd the Spaniards several times with great Loss; but at last run the same Fate with the rest of the Natives. 'Tis reported that the Spaniards first and last had massa∣creed Sixty Thousand Indians in the I∣sland of Cuba.

La Casas, a Bishop in New Spain, that wrote the History of the Indies, tells us this Story of another Cassick, that was taken by the Spaniards in Cu∣ba, and condemn'd to be burnt alive with green Wood, that his Torture might be the longer and more exquisite. While he was ty'd to the Stake, before the Fire was lighted, a Fryar that was pre∣sent preach'd to him the Truth of the Christian Religion, and that all who dy'd in that Faith, and trusted in God that form'd the Earth, and all the Creatures therein, shou'd immediately after their Purgation, ascend into Hea∣ven, the Residence of our Creator, there to converse with Angels, and such as dy'd in that Faith; but on the contrary, if they persisted in Ignorance, and dy'd in a contrary Opinion, they should de∣scend into Hell, and live in an Eternity of Torments. Upon this, the Cassick ask'd him if there were any Spaniards in Heav'n? And being answer'd there were many; Then says the Cassick, let me go to Hell, for I wou'd rather converse with those you call Devils, than you

Spaniards in Heaven; for I am sure you are far the Worst of Devils, and take Delight in nothing but tormenting us. Tho' the Fryar's Preaching was certainly true, yet Men of any Reason must con∣clude, that no Religion can be propa∣gated by Cruelty and the Sword, which was always the Spaniards Method with the Indians, where-ever they came; and all their Excuse was, that if they had not us'd them in that Manner, they cou'd never have made their Conquests, being they were forc'd to lessen 'em, for fear their Numbers might overpower 'em; so that in short, as Dryden says in his Conquest of Mexico by the Spaniards, You threaten Peace, but you invite a War.

I met here with a Priest, that I am sure harbour'd nothing of Cruelty in his Breast, for he came to see us every Day, and in such a friendly Manner, that charm'd us all. He was always sending us one good Thing or other, and wou'd take us to divert us Abroad. He understood Latin very well, and some English. On the Sunday he preach'd an excellent Ser∣mon in Spanish, as Mr. Musgrave in∣form'd

us, whose Chief Heads ran upon us; and to excite Charity in his Audi∣tors, to let us have what was necessary in carrying us to Jamaica. The next Day he brought us to the Value of Fifty Pound in Spanish Dollars, which were collected at the Church Doors for us. There was a small Vessel of about Forty Tun upon the Stocks, that was bought of the Owners for us, and a Collection made in the Town for Mo∣ney to pay for it. We told 'em of the Provision we had left on Shore, which by our Computation cou'd not be above twenty Leagues off; but they told us it would be difficult to find it. One Day a Spaniard met us walking with Father An∣tonio in one of the Cloysters of the Con∣vent, and reprimanded him for favour∣ing Hereticks (as he call'd us) so much. He thought none of us understood Spa∣nish, so was more free in his Conversation. Says Father Antonio, we ought to use Charity even to Brute Beasts, and much more to our Fellow Creatures, who wear with us our Creator's Image; I wou'd not be thought to make a

Schism in our Religion, which I am sure is the holiest and most pure; but yet I cannot consent in my Thoughts, that All who are out of the Pale of our Church must suffer Damna∣tion; it wou'd be horrid to think it, and would take away from the Lustre of our Opinion, which shines so brightly. If they are in any Errors concerning their Belief, God, in whose Breast it lies, can open their Eyes when he thinks fit that they may see those Er∣rors. Then added the Spaniard, with the same Reason you may say the Indi∣ans and Natives may still remain in Ignorance, till Heaven shall think sit to open their Eyes, as you say; and if so, the Missionary Fathers may spare their Trouble. No, reply'd the Father, We are there appointed by Pro∣vidence to bring 'em out of the Cloud that dims their Sight. But of People that own Christ, and serve the same God with us, who differ but in a few outward Forms of Worship, it is very hard to believe that those instructed in that Worship, must inevitably sink into

Damnation. I can't tell what the Spa∣niard's Thoughts were upon this Dis∣course, but I am sure he was more cha∣ritable than before, for he pull'd out of his Purse a Moidore, and gave Father Antonio for our Use, which it seems he had refus'd to do, when he went about collecting for us. After he was gone, he told us his Discourse, Pro and Con, and what he cou'd not make out in Eng∣lish, Mr. Musgrave clear'd to us from the other's telling him in Spanish what he meant.

The End of the Second BOOK.