The present state of the United Provinces of the Low-Countries as to the government, laws, forces, riches, manners, customes, revenue, and territory of the Dutch in three books / collected by W.A., Fellow of the Royal Society.

THE THIRD BOOK Containing the DELIGHTS OF HOLLAND. (Book 3)

CHAP. I.

Of the Original of Holland.

SOme Writers say, that the word Holland is deriv'd from the G••r∣man word Holtlandt, which is as much as to say, a Countrey of Wood; and they found this their conjecture upon the names of many Villages,

which have been nam'd from their Woods. Our Annals likewise do say, that formerly this Province was full of Forrests, and the Sea-side all border'd with Trees.

There was not above a hundred years ago a large Forrest in the Island of Texel, (which does as it were make up the tail of the Lion, which the seven∣teen Provinces put together do repre∣sent.) And to this day there are bo∣dies and stumps of Trees, which do of∣ten hurt Ships, and entangle their Ca∣bles about their roots, which in a storm is often the cause of the loss of divers Ships; for that reason the Fishermen never cast their Nets there, for fear of tearing them.

Some others say, and that probably enough, that the word Holland does denote the property of the Earth, which in most places seems hollow, and quakes as if it swam upon the top of the Water. To this purpose Guicciardin tells a Story of a Cow, That passing in a Meadow half a mile from Harlem, fell into a Ditch, and was drown'd, and ••••re•• dayes after was found in a Lake

hard by the Town, on the East-side of it, which had no communication with the Ditch.

The third opinion, and that which is most likely to be true, is, that these Provinces having been conquer'd by the Normans, they gave them the name of the Provinces they came out of. And in effect, not only whole Provinces, but many Towns and Villages have the same names here, and in Denemark, as Zeeland, Oland, besides the Kingdome of Norway; the Towns, as Schagen, Bergen, Valkenburg, and many others, which it is needless to set down.

In all antiquity it is observable, that when ever a Nation did enlarge by Conquests or Colonies, the same cu∣stome was put in use. So the French having entred Gallia drive out the Ro∣mans, and call'd the Countrey France. The Spaniards do the same in the West-Indies. And to go no further, the Dutch themselves have given the name of Batavia to that great Town in the Indies, which they have made the seat of their Trade and Empire in those parts.

These Northern Nations, not content with their having deluge-like over-run these Countreys, pass'd into Neustria, and call'd it Normandy; and to this day the people of that Province have an ac∣cent much resembling that of the Danes in their tongue, which is not a small conjecture that they are come original∣ly out of the North. Our Authors do not agree about the time that these Nations did invade Holland, and whe∣ther they were again driven out by the French or no.

CHAP. II.

Of the length and breadth of Holland; the number of its Towns and Villages.

UNder the name of the Low Coun∣treys are comprehended the se∣venteen Provinces, and before these troubles Flanders was esteem'd the best of them; but now Holland may more

justly claim that title, as being the rich∣est Countrey in the world for its big∣ness.

Holland is encompassed almost on three sides by the Ocean, viz. on the West, the East, and the North; it has Brabant, the River Meuse, and Utrect, to the South. It may be said of this Province as an Ancient said of France, that there is no desert, solitude, nor empty place in it; for there has been such an affluence and concourse of peo∣ple by reason of the Wars, that it is al∣most too little to hold them. The Circuit of Holland is only a hundred and fourscore miles, and in this com∣pass are comprehended great Lakes, and a part of the South Sea. Its length is taken from the Island Schelling, in the North, to the River Scheld, and Zee∣land in the South. The breadth is not above twenty four miles, if we take it in a straight line in the middle, from Catwyck by the Sea-side, to Woerden, a small Town upon the Frontiers of Utrect.

The chief and principall Towns are six in number; Dort, Harlem, Delft,

Leyden, Amsterdam, Goude. The o∣thers that are less Towns, but who do send their Deputies to the States Gene∣rall, are these; Rotterdam, Gorcum, Schiedam, Schoonhove, Briel, Alcmaer, Horn, Enchuyse, Edam, Monnicken∣dam, Medenblick, and Purmerend. The other Towns are not admitted to the same priviledges, either because they are built upon the conquer'd Countrey of Brabant, as Gertruden∣bergh, Heusden, Workum; or because they have particular Lords, that will not have them belong to the States, as Vianen is owned by the Brederodes, and Yselsteyn is claim'd by the States of Utrect; or else because they are poor, and cannot bear the charges of Depu∣ties, as Woerde, Audewater, Heukelom, Asperen, Leerdam, Naerden, W••sop, and Muyden, of which mention shall be made hereafter.

The principall Burroughs which have the priviledges of Towns, though they be not wall'd, are, the Hague, Vlaer∣ding, Grav••sant, Delfs-haven, Bever∣wyck, Schagen, Nieuport.

There are in Holland above two

hundred Villages, which if you consi∣der for their building, trade, and rich∣es, they may take place of many Towns in other Countreys; but the fairest of them are Nortwic, Reensburg, Worbury, Maeslant-s••••ys, Egmond, Ryswyck, Geervliet, &c.

Vlaerding Re••nsburg, and Bev••••wyck were in former ages reckon'd amongst the strongest and fairest Towns of this Province; as also Geervliet. But Hol∣land is much chang'd since its troubles, and many Towns are risen by trade and their situation, which before were very inconsiderable. I have heard old Wo∣men say, how they could remember that Lootwyck was as big again as it is now, and that it has been by little and little eaten away by the Ocean, its too powerfull Neighbour.

In the year 1574. at Schevelinge, near the Hague, the Sea broke in, and car∣ried away 121. Houses, as any body may see it recorded upon a Picture in the Church. In a word, the ruine of the neighbouring Provinces, and the great a version of the people to slavery, has made them all resort to this, and

there produce that plenty and abun∣dance of all things, which commonly follows great numbers of people, par∣ticularly being so situated, as to take the advantage of three great Rivers, and the Sea.

CHAP. III.

Of the division of Holland, and the nature of the Soyl.

HOlland is divided into the South or Meridionall part, which reaches from Zeeland, Brabant, and Utrect, to the Dike at Sparendam, and that is above half Holland; and into North-Holland, or West-Frieze, which reach∣es from Amsterdam to the North Sea: and the people though penn'd up as it were in so small a compass, does ne∣vertheless differ very much in manners, customes, and Cloathes, in these parts.

The Kennemaers, which the Annals speak so much of, did live between

Harlem, Alcmaer, Beverwy••k, and Pur∣merend. There is a little Mountain be∣tween these Towns, which carries the name of St. Albert, and there the Earls were install'd Lords of the Kennemaers; and near that place they kept their Courts, as well because of the beauty of the Countrey, as for the conveni∣ence of many fair Castles that are built there, such as Cleves, Brederode, Vel∣sen, Egmond.

Waterland is so call'd, because of the abundance of waters, on the top of which it seems to swim. There are in it but three little Towns, viz. Edam, Monnicken-dam, and Purmerend.

That part of Holland which is nearest the North, has a soft moorish Soyl, not at all fit to be till'd. From the Downs to the Frontier of Brabant, 'tis nothing but Meadows, which towards the end of October begin to be cover'd with water, and which encreases by continuall rains and storms, and that lasts all Winter, insomuch that in most places you see nothing but some Stee∣ples and Houses, which look as if they came out of the Sea; all these fine Mea∣dows

being then cover'd with Boats, and the Dikes with Passengers. This Water does mightily fatten the ground; and in the beginning of February, (provided the Frosts do not hinder it) begins to be emptied, by the admirable invention of those Wind-mills, which drive away these deluges of Water, and confine them to certain Channels. The Earth being dry begins about March to look green, and then the Cattell come out to grazing.

Now it is to be observ'd, that the fa∣vourable Wind for Holland is the South-East, and the worst is the North-West.

To prevent the dangerous effects of so much Water, this Countrey is full of Banks, rais'd by the industry of the Inhabitants, and which have cost vast summes of money to make, as they do still to maintain and keep in repair. The chief is the bank of the River Issel, that of the Meuse, of Sparendam, and of Medenblick. The care of them be∣longs to the Dyckgraves of each Hun∣dred, and to the Heemrades, who are Gentlemen of the Countrey.

In the year 1638. the Dike of Issel broke by the thawing of the River; for the Rhyne carrying huge mountains of Ice, they eat into it, and made 〈◊〉〈◊〉 breach of many foot, not far from Utrect; whereupon almost all Holland was over∣flown with clear water, which did little hurt: the breach was soon made up, and the water drain'd by the help of the Wind-mills.

The Earth produces all sorts of Fruits and good Corn about R••••ns∣bourg and Nortwyck, as also near Vooer∣schote and Warmont, but not enough for the vast multitudes of people that swarm in this Countrey, therefore the great supply is from Poland and Moscovy. There grows besides here Hemp and Flax, for fine Linnen, and Sayls, &c.

There are incomparably more Mea∣dows than arable grounds, which feed a world of Cattle; particularly a large sort of Cows, vvhich give great store of Milk, of which is made excellent But∣ter, and rare Cheeses, which are sent all the world over. In some places there are Cows that yeeld three great Pales full of Milk a day.

Every Spring there comes great store of ••ean Cows and Oxen from Danne∣mark, Jutland, and H••lstein, which are within three weeks time fa••••ed up∣on these excellent pastures. In some places they ••owe the Grass twice a year; and the Hay is much better than in any other place; it is for that reason, that the Horses and Cows are bigger and taller than in any other place.

The Earth of which the Turss are made is call'd Veens, which being cut out of the Ditches, and exposed to the Sun-beams, grows hard, and then be∣ing kept some time in a Barn or Garret, grows dry, and fit for fewell. The best are those that come from Frieze∣land, and they use them in Brewing and Baking. They have all much sul∣phure in them, and being mingled with Wood, make an excellent fire.

The mountains of Sand call'd Downs, serve as a bar to the fury of the Ocean; and though they seem barren, yet have they an advantage, which is, that they are full of Rabbits, which are both a pleasant diversion, and a good provisi∣on for Passengers.

The Sea-side from the Meuse to the Texel is about a hundred miles in length; and there is so plain and smooth a way between the Mountains and the Sea, that it is a great pleasure to travell in it either afoot or on Horse-back. When the Sea is calm, you may see the Ships under sail; and if there be a storm, it is with a kind of terrible delight, that you may perceive the threatning Sea come, and spend all its fury upon this even shore.

There are some pleasant Forrests standing yet, as that of the Hague and Harlem. There is likewise a Wood at Sevenhuyse, a fine Village five leagues from Leyden, where the Scholars go twice a year to take the sport of shaking the Trees, and making a great sort of Bird that builds in them fall at their feet.

It is most certain that this Province was anciently full of Trees, which (according to the opinion of some Au∣thors) were destroyed by that horri∣ble storm, which hapned in the year 860. and which shut up the mouth of the River Rhene near Lat••i••, made it

take another course, and mingle with the Meuse, after a great devastation of Woods, Lands, and Houses. In proof whereof you see that the Channell that comes from U••rect, and passes through Leyden, retains yet the name of the Rhyne. The Countrey people in dig∣ging do find to this day in the Veens, and other places, great bodies and branches of Trees, particularly towards the South. Nay they have found Nuts entire and well preserv'd in the bottom of the Water, though there has been no Trees to bear them since this hun∣dred years.

And indeed it is no wonder that a Countrey formerly over-run with Wood, should now be so empty of it, since we know that Germany which is now so full of Towns and Cities, was anciently one great Forrest al∣most.

The Air is pretty well temper'd in Holland, though cold do a little predo∣minate, there being continuall winds and frequent rains; but the inconstancy of the Climate is such, that the seasons seem to be in a perpetuall confusion.

It rains ordinarily in the Dog-dayes; and sometimes in July it is as cold as in December. Likewise in Winter it is sometimes so warm and milde weather, that one can hardly endure a fire: but as the heat is never violent, so the cold is seldome lasting, according to the Proverb that sayes, that rigorous Ma∣sters do not govern long; yet is there no such generall Rule but admits of an ex∣ception; for there has been long and hot Summers, and violent cold lasting Winters: the Annals speak of some, as of the year 1149.

When the Channels are frozen, they slide upon them with a certain sort of Shooes call'd Skates, which have a long, shining, narrow, crooked Iron, that stands out before. They that are perfect in this exercise turn their Feet inwards, that the Iron may take the more hold of the Ice, upon which they fly like Birds in the air with that swift∣ness, that one can hardly follow them with the eye. The Women too use this as a diversion, and many do very pretty tricks upon the Ice; but most are content with a straight course, as

much as needs to get heat and ground. Every Sunday after Sermon all the peo∣ple of the Towns come out upon the Ice, some to slide and others to look on. I knew a young Clown of ten year old, who did brag that he had gone eighteen miles or six leagues in an hour upon his Skates. The same laid a Wa∣ger with a Peasant his neighbour, that he would sooner slide three leagues, than the other should ride one and a half with the best Horse he should get. It is ordinary for these sort of people to go from Leyden to Amsterdam in an hour and a quarter, if the Ice be even, and yet that is near eighteen miles.

There are besides things call'd Trais∣neaur, like our Sledges, that are of two sorts, some that are drawn by Horses, and others that a man drives before him as he slides upon the Ice. There are also Boats, that having a great Iron under them, sail along, and go sometimes fifteen leagues an hour; but that is seldome practis'd, because there is danger in it, and because that often the Ice is not even.

When it has snowed and frozen to∣gether,

they use great Sledges to go across the Meadows, and not follow the ordinary way. Some wonder to see the Countrey people carry great Poles upon their Shoulders; but the reason of it is, that if the Ice should break, they might by the favour of their Poles, (both ends of which would lye upon the two extremities of the crack'd Ice) get out again. The te∣merity of the Hollanders deserves to be blam'd; for many will venture upon one nights Ice, and thence happen ma∣ny sad accidents.

Holland is so flat and even a Coun∣trey, that you see not a Mountain nor a Hill, except those Sand-hills that keep out the Sea. It is almost all Mea∣dows, cut into a thousand Channels, which in Summer by their delicate green, and their variety of Flowers, are a pleasant object to look on. 'Tis true, that in some places the Earth pro∣duces Corn, Beans, Pease, and all sorts of grains; the Mountains of Sand are full of Rabbits; the Waters of excellent Fishes; and the Air supplyes them with Fowl from the Northern

parts, viz. with Woodcocks, Snipes, Hernes, &c. insomuch that Holland may be call'd very justly, the Marrow of the Low Countreys, as well for its fertility, as for the delights and plea∣sures that may be enjoyed in it. It seems a terrestriall Paradise for its Meadows and pleasant Fields, the Channels and Rivers so ingeniously contriv'd for Trade, and the noble magnificence of its Buildings. We must needs confess that there are very few plow'd grounds, considering the vast numbers of people that must be fed; and yet there are no where great∣er Store-houses, nor better furnish'd than here: nay Holland may with rea∣son be call'd the Store-house of Europe, considering the vast transportation of all sorts of grains that are made from hence into Italy, Spain, England, France, and Brabant, when their own Corn has fail'd them by any accident of War or Famine.

That great Man Scaliger speaking of the Wonders of this Province, sayes, that here grows no Vines, and yet here is more Wine than in any one place in Europe.

In effect, the Wines of the Rhene, the Mosella, and the Mouse, come to Dort, and from thence into all the o∣ther places of these Countreys. The Wines of France, Spain, and Greece, come to Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

There grows very little Wood, and yet there are no where to be found more Carpenters and Joyners than here. And it may be there is not in the rest of Chrystendome, so many Ships and Boats as in this one Province: there is scarce a Peasant but has his Boat to bring his Commodities to the Towns. To be short; sayes he, we live amongst the waters, and yet we drink not of them. There are no Flocks of Sheep, and very little Flax; and yet where is made more Cloth and Linnen than here? I adde, that there are no Mines in Holland, and yet all sorts of Mettals are more abundant here than in any part of the world, as it appears by the rich Furnitures and Ornaments of the Houses of our Citizens, whose Wives delight in that more than in any thing else.

Strangers cannot easily conceive

these wonders, or at least they alone amongst them that understand the se∣cret of Trade, and what vast advanta∣ges the Hollanders have reap'd from that War, which they so long and so generously maintain'd against Spain, and which at last ending in an honour∣able peace, has left them Masters of the Trade of the world, fetching by their Ships from the remotest parts of it all that's good and precious, and to be had for money.

CHAP. IV.

Of the Manners and Dispositi∣ons of the Inhabitants.

THe old Hollanders were formerly despised by their Neighbours, for the grossness of their temper, and the simplicity of their life. They were us'd to be call'd Block-heads, and eaters of Cheese and Milk: but as they for∣merly had the reputation of silly, so now they are esteemed as subtil and un∣derstanding

a Nation as any is in Eu∣rope; as may be well evidenced from their Treaties and Alliances made with Strangers. This I think proceeds from that Commerce they drive through all the world, and from the mixture made amongst them by divers Strangers that have setled in these parts; for above half those that do inhabit the Towns are either Strangers, or descended from them.

They all love their Liberties, even those that have made but a few years stay in the Province, as if the genius of it had a secret power over mens inclina∣tions. It is not lawfull to beat nor strike any body. Servants have as great priviledges as their Masters, who dare not abuse them with blows. And if any body chance to be so far tran∣sported by their passion, as to 〈…〉〈…〉t their Man or Maid-servant, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 come to the hearing of the Magistrate, they are fined for it, and often forc'd to pay them their whole year of wages, though not due, and so turn them away.

There are no Slaves in Holland, but

any man in that condition is free as soon as he sets his foot on that ground. The Hollanders are very constant in their resolutions, and seldome desist till they have obtain'd their end.

They are not so much upon the pun∣ctilio of honor, as the other Nations, but are rather given to Trade and getting, and they seem as if they had suck'd in with their milk the insatiable desire of acquiring. They never complain of the pains they take, and go as merrily to the Indies, as if they went to their Countrey Houses. They are of a strong Constitution, tall proper men, and very capable of whatsoever they undertake.

Those amongst them that prefer the study of Liberal Arts to the desire of growing rich, do succeed as prospe∣rously; for without doubt or flattery, Holland has produced as many learn'd and ingenious persons as any Province in Europe. Others follow the Art of Painting, and transport themselves in∣to Italy, where are the best Masters of the world; and by these means good Pictures are very common here, there

being scarce an ordinary Tradesman, whose House is not adorn'd with them. If there be any body that has any new invention or discovery, he shall be sure to find money for it here, if it will yeeld any.

Above all things the Hollander, hate all Quarrels and Duels; as likewise they abhor all treacherous actions, blasphemy, swearing, &c. They are no wayes bloody-minded, but much more enclin'd to compassion than their Neighbours.

I pass to their way of living. And first of their Winter-Provision.

In the beginning of Autumn when the Turfs are dry, they lay in their provision of them. Towards Novem∣ber they buy an Oxe, or half a one, ac∣cording as their Family is, that they salt and smoke for Summer, eating it with Butter or Sallet. Every Sunday they take out a great piece out of their salting-Tub, upon which they dine: this piece comes every day after upon the Table all the week long, with some other Dish of boyl'd Meat, or Milk. They do not love Pottage so much as

the French; neither do they much e∣steem Leek, or Garlick, or Onion. They are not nice in their Diet, and none amongst them, but the very rich, do eat after the French fashion.

They have that common custome of all Northern Nations, which is, that they delight much in drinking and feast∣ing with their friends; if any chance to be quarrelsome in his drink, he is pre∣sently driven out of the Company. Here we must not omit a certain cu∣stome, which has for drift, peace, a∣mity, and concord: All the Towns are divided into divers Quarters, called Neighbourhoods; every one of these has a Master, and he has his Counsel∣lors; if there happen any quarrell, the parties appear before him, who endea∣vours to agree them; if he cannot, then they may go twice a week before the Commissioners for hearing of quar∣rels, and keeping peace amongst Neighbours; if they cannot bring them to take or give satisfaction, then they may go to Law.

The Treasurer of each Neighbourhood receives the Fines, which are these fol∣lowing:

If any one has not waited up∣on a dead body of the Neighbourhood going to be buried, he is fin'd three half-pence. The Heirs or Kindred of the dead person are bound to make a Present, according to their quality, though there be no set Tax. For a Childe they give not so much as for a person of age. The gift that is made for a married person, is call'd in the language of the Countrey a fat Dish. When a Citizen purchases a House, he is bound to a Present proportionable to the value of his House.

When there is a pretty round summe of money got together by six or seven years gathering, the Master and his Counsellors meet at the desire of the Neighbours, and appoint a day for a Treat, which lasts ordinarily three or four. 'Tis most commonly in Autumn, and there every one comes with his Wife, but without either Children or Dogs, under pain of being fined. Be∣fore they sit down, the Laws of the Feast are publickly read; amongst which the chiefest are, that you must not blaspheme, nor start any discourse about

Religion, for fear of falling out. Then the Master sits down with his Wife, and the Counsellors next to him of each side; the others draw lots for their pla∣ces. If any one press another to drink more than he is able, he payes a Fine; if he strike, he is banish'd the company, and not admitted the next day without asking pardon. At eight of the Clock every one goes out, and waits upon the Master to his Lodging, where they begin to drink afresh, till wine and sleep part them, and bring them to their own homes. All the time is pass'd merrily, and without Ceremony, as if they were all equall. The four dayes being ended, they summe up what they have spent; and if the publick purse cannot pay the charges, they supply it by an equall contribution. I have re∣cited this custome at large, that from it may be deduced some knowledge of their humour. They are very patient, and not so hasty as other Nations, and have a Proverb amongst them, which sayes, that Rich people do not use to fight. They ha••e going to Law; and as for affronts and injurious words they are

made amends for, by the recantation and confession of him that is in the wrong; then they shake hands, and are made friends.

The married Women and Maids are very fair and chaste. They have a great care of their House, and keep all their Cupboards, Cabinets, even the Floors, extream neat: some of them are so curious, as not to let you come in∣to their rubb'd Rooms, without putting on a pair of Slippers, or making your own Shooes very clean. The Women do enjoy as much liberty as their Hus∣bands; and it is an unpardonable fault to beat them. I have often heard them say, that if a Husband does beat his Wife, he is bound to give his Neigh∣bours a Gammon of Bacon; and if she beat him, she is bound to give two. Every day they rub and wash the lower Floors, and straw them with fine Sand, and make them so neat, that Strangers often make a scruple of spitting in them. If the Citizens Wives are thus neat, the Countrey people are no wayes inferior to them in that point; for they keep all even to their Stables very clean. The

Houshold-stuff of the better sort is very rich, of gold and silver, and carv'd work; good Hangings; excellent Pictures; rare Cabinets, fill'd with China, &c.

I have observ'd one thing of the Hol∣landers by living long amongst them, which is, that they do not easily give credit to such as tell strange Stories and wonderfull accidents, hapned a great way off; and when, by their silence and postures, they seem to admire it, 'tis then that they believe least of all what you say, but they do not take pleasure in contradicting. They are not given to swearing, nor robbing; but are tender-hearted, and inclin'd to pity, and will not willingly see any body wrong'd in their presence.

They are a little too indulgent to their Children, and are punished for it; for many of them rebell against their Parents, and at last go away to the In∣dies, the ordinary vent of these Provin∣ces. When any body tells them of their fondness to their Children, they presently say, Does any body spoil their own Face, or cut off their own Nose?

They are very laborious and indu∣strious, and in the name of liberty and profit undertake any thing. They love familiarity, and are much taken with people that being of great quality do not refuse to eat and drink with them. Prince William the first, Prince of O∣range, won their hearts with that popu∣lar way, and did the King of Spain more mischief by it, than if he had been at the head of an Army against him. They despise and undervalue proud people; and to please them, you must conform to their humour. They are very free, and open apparently, but are indeed alwayes upon their guard. They hate cheats, and are seldome deceiv'd twice.

Those amongst them that are de∣scended from Strangers, do retain something of their first origine, and are a good while before they become right Hollanders.

We have spoke already of their Diet; but this is only to be added, that Trade having brought riches, sumptuosity has followed: so that the Hague may be call'd a compendium of the most

glorious Courts in Chrystendome, and Amsterdam the magazine of all that's precious in Europe.

CHAP. V.

Of the Trade of the Hollan∣ders; and the wayes of getting a Livelyhood.

IT is an ordinary saying in Holland, that He that will work can never want, and it is a very true one; for there are so many Trades kept going by their great commerce, that no body can want work. All Arts are here ex∣ercised; and experience shews, that Manufactures are better made here than in the other Provinces. All turns to account here; and even they that make clean the Kennals with an Iron, and Nets at the end of it to bring up the or∣dure, may earn half a Crown a day, if they will work hard. Children, as so on as they are bound Apprentice, get their

own bread. Amongst the Countrey people, some make Butter and Cheese; others cut up Turfs; every Market∣day they bring their Milk, and Butter, and Whey to Town, which the Tradesmen and Journeymen live most upon.

Among the Citizens, some put out their Money, and live upon the inter∣est; others trade with it, and are call'd Merchants. Their chief Commodities are Butter, and Cheese, and Cloth, and many other Manufactures, as we shall see in the Description of Ley∣den.

The situation of this noble Province is such, as if Nature intended it for the generall Mart of Europe; for it has the neighbourhood of the Sea, and is it self full of navigable Lakes, Rivers, Chan∣nels, all which are night and day loaded with Boats and Passengers. Many Channels have been made since the publication of the peace with Spain, as that from Leyden to Harlem, and from Amsterdam to Goude, which is call'd (Trech-Sch••ite••) because there the Boats are drawn by Horses, that so

they may come in at set-times. The said Channels are made with the greatest ease that can be; for as soon as you have digg'd three or four foot, you meet with the water.

The Herring-Fishing is properly the golden Mines of this Countrey, by the great revenue it brings yearly to it. It is a hard matter to say how many thousands of men are kept by it; for besides those that go to Sea, who are a great number, there are employed as many more in making of Boats and Bar∣rels to pickle them up in.

Every Summer in June there sets out a Fleet of Fishermen from the Meuse; they call them Busses. They cast their Nets near the English Coast upon Mid∣summer-Eve, according to the ancient custome; they pickle them up in Bar∣rels, and serve all the rest of the world with them: the last Fishing is most va∣lued, and the Herrings of that Fishing are all carried abroad. Ten dayes af∣ter Midsummer they may sell them pub∣lickly, but not before; then many go up and down, crying, Fresh Herring, which are esteem'd as a dainty by every

body. The name of the man that first invented the way of pickleing them, deserves to be known; it was William Bueckeld, and he died at Bieverliet, in the year 1347. Charles the fifth Em∣peror went one day to see his Tomb, in acknowledgment of the service he had done his Countrey.

The Merchants do every day encrease their Trade by making Societies and Companies, and setting out men of War at their own charges to protect their Ships home. They never want Seamen, for the Hollanders do delight in going to Sea; nay I have heard ma∣ny of them say, that they could never enjoy their health but at Sea. There are many of these Companies; as that of Moscovy, for Furrs, Skins, and Rye; that of Island and Groenland, for the fishing of Whales: but the chiefest of all, and who with Force and Arms drive a prodigious Trade, are the East and West-India Companies, who have a Patent from the States.

The West-India Company had made great profit by the taking of the Baia de ••odos l••s sanctos, and of the Silver Fleet

which Jason Peter Hain brought into Holland, in the year 1629. which also was the cause of the taking of Bosleduke from the Spaniards. The taking of Fernambuco did likewise give hopes of conquering the rest of Brasil; but after the depart of the noble Count Morice of Nassaw, the Negroes and Portugueses joyning together, revolted, and re∣duced the Company to great extremi∣ties; since it has suffer'd another de∣feat, which has almost made an end of ruining it. It has often been proposed to unite it with the East-India Compa∣ny; but all in vain, for the one is too high and rich, and the other too poor.

The East-India Company has its principall Seat at Amsterdam. 'Tis this Company that has Kings and King∣domes tributary to it, and depending upon it. 'Tis this Company that makes the Hollanders name famous in the re∣motest parts of the Earth, and triumphs over the riches of the Orient, bringing home Pearls, Diamonds, Gold, all sorts of Aromatick Druggs, &c. Be∣sides Batavia, the principall Town,

the Company has a great number of strong Forts well in order, to protect their Merchants, terrifie Strangers, and keep the Indians in awe. 'Tis thought that the Company payes above 10000 men; the places and employ∣ments are much valued, and not to be come by but by the intercession of some great friend.

Every Summer about August there comes in an East-India Fleet of ten or twelve Ships, which is esteem'd to bring in the value of above a million of gold. The prohibitions that Philip King of Spain made to the Hollanders from tra∣ding in his Countrey, were the cause of this Enterprize. 'Tis said that the Ve∣••etians did counsell and further it for a design, which succeeded otherwise than they expected, and to their own loss. The Ships that go for the Indies are of extraordinary bulk. Every one that has put in a thousand pounds may be a Director; and every one that has a hun∣dred pounds there, may have three hundred for it; and every hundred yeelds forty and forty five, sometimes more, sometimes less. The riches of

this Company are inestimable; and to go about to describe them, were to desire credit to a thing which to most people would seem fabu∣lous, though they are very reall in themselves.

All the Channels render them∣selves into Lakes, and they into the Sea. There are two chief o∣vertures to the Ocean; the first is the mouth of the River Meuse, which is at the Brill, and G••ree; the other from Amsterdam, and the Towns of North-Holland, to the Texel.

CHAP. VI.

Of the Imposts and Cu∣stomes.

THough Holland be both naturally, and by the greatness of its com∣merce, aboundant in all things; yet every thing is extream dear, and that for two reasons; first, because of the

greatness of the Consumption, caus'd by the affluence of people from all parts; the other, because of the Ex∣cise which is upon every thing almost, and which is easily supported by the In∣habitants, by reason of the great gains every one is able to make in his pro∣fession. These Imposts are so layed and gather'd, that they are willingly payed, though there be nothing free from them. The Money that is thus rais'd, comes to a vast summe, which added to the situation of the Countrey, has made all the King of Spain's endea∣vours vain. But to shew the greatness of this Tribute, I will give only this ex∣ample: A Cow of nine years old, if it be sold for five pound, will have payed above six pound to the States. There is never a Dish comes to Table, but has payed excise above twenty times. The States seeing the necessity of ha∣ving money to defend their liberties, did by little and little, and not all at once, settle these Excises, so that the people bear it chearfully enough. In the time of the War, every one pay'd the two hundredth penny of their

Estates; they only that were not worth two hundred pound principall, were exempted from this contribution. There are many other Imposts, which may be all seen in the Second Part of this Book, in the Chapter of Imposts. All that is wonderfull, is to consider that that very thing for the fear of which these Nations revolted from the Spaniards, has been put in execution in a higher manner upon themselves, by their own consent, and prov'd the means of their preservation.

Let us now come to the description of particular Towns; and let us begin by Leyden, which is to the rest, as the Spring is to the other seasons of the year, the gayest, and most pleasant. Towns in other Countries are subject to the injuries of time and revolutions, but here they spring up, encrease, and grow bigger every day. This Town a∣mongst the rest, has had the good for∣tune to be one of the most flourishing of the Low Countreys. The Ocean is on the West-side of it, and within twelve miles; Harlem on the North, within fifteen; and Amsterdam within one

and twenty; Utrect within thirty, towards the East; Delft and the Hague on the South and South-West, and within nine miles distance.

CHAP. VII.

Of Leyden, in Latine Lug∣dunum Batavorum.

THis Town, the greatest and most pleasant that is in Europe, (if we consider the magnificence of its Build∣ings, the breadth of its Streets, the conveniencies of its Channels, and the pleasing shade of the Trees planted on each side the Channels) is situated up∣on the ancient River of Rhene, which goes through it, makes many Islands, and then joyns in one bed at the white Gate. It is almost in the Center of Holland, and from it we will draw lines to the rest of the Cities, which are as it were the circumference. It is a very ancient City, as appears by the Burg, built either by the Romans or Sax∣ons;

whence many derive the word Leyden from Legio, there being there a Roman Legion in quarters. The opi∣nion of some is that it was built by an English man, in the year 1050. Plu∣tarch and Ptolomy mention it; and An∣tonine calls it the Capital of the Ger∣mans.

The Burg-graves of Leyden have ta∣ken their name from this Burg, which is round and high, and from it one may discover all the adjacent Meadows, the sandy Downs, and the Sea of Harlem. The ascent to it is by steps, and round about it as well as within are Fruit-Trees in abundance. It has about a hundred and fifty foot in compass; and within these few years there has been bred up Hedges all trimm'd, and cut into Labyrinths, which in a short time will make it a very recreative place.

In the year 1121. the great Church was consecrated to St. Peter; 'tis one of the finest Churches in Holland, ha∣ving three ranks of Pillars on each side without the Quire. It is said that there was a high Tower, which serv'd as a

Light-House to those that were at Sea, and pass'd before Catvic, but it fell down in the year 1509.

In the year 1344. the Church dedi∣cated to St. Pancratius, was bless'd; it is a stately Building, so much of it as is done. It is now the Church of the French and Walloons; the great Scali∣ger lyes buried in it.

In the year 1573. the Spaniards ha∣ving taken Harlem after a long and te∣dious siege, went and sate down before Alcmaer; but being forc'd to raise the siege of that place, they came before Leyden; but hearing of Count Frede∣rick de Nassaw his coming, they re∣tir'd. A little after having recruited their Army, they came again under the conduct of their Generall Baldese, who judging that it would be a hard matter to take the Town by force, resolv'd to starve them to a surrender. The Inha∣bitants endur'd all the extremities of famine, and at last the banks that kept in the Rivers Meuse and Issel, being broke on purpose by the Hollanders, the Spaniards were forced to forsake their Trenches. The first relief came

into the Town the third of October, which is still made an anniversary day of Thanksgiving. Every year there is a Play made in representation of this siege, which draws great numbers of people to see it, and the money ga∣ther'd is given to poor Orphans. In the middle of the famine a troop of Ci∣tizens being come to the door of one Peter Adrian de Verf, cried out aloud, that they must either surrender, or perish with hunger; but he answer'd them with an immortall constancy, Friends, kill me if you will, and divide me between you; for it is the same thing to me to die by your hands, or by the hands of my enemies. They made Paper-money, with this Inscription, H••c libertatis ergo pugno pro patria, &c. which is to say, We endure all these miseries for our liberty and our Countrey. I will adde, that as Leyden has been the second Town that sustain'd valiantly the Spani∣ards attacks, so the Sas of Gand was the last place but one which fell into the States hands, and that by the fault of the Governor, who was not able to make use of his Sluces, against those who by

water had driven the Spaniards from their Walls.

A year after this painfull siege, was establish'd the famous University of Leyden, to recompence the Inhabi∣tants for their constant sufferings. But many other reasons might invite the States to choose this Town before any other; for it is neat, finely built, de∣licate Walks, and a pleasant Countrey about the Town, the Sea near it. The University was inaugurated the eighth of February, in the year 1574. and every year upon the same day is de∣clar'd Rector, he whom his Highness the Prince of Orange is pleas'd to choose, out of three that are nam'd to him.

Here has alwayes been very famous professors in all faculties; but particu∣larly the Civil Law and Physick have al∣wayes flourished, by the particular care of his Highness the Prince of Orange. The great Scaliger, and the incompa∣rable Salmazius, have been as the two great Lights among the other Stars of this learn'd Firmament. There are be∣sides Lectures of Divinity, Mathema∣ticks;

in all which the professors do ex∣cell, as being chosen with care, and well recompenc'd for their labours. When any one dies, the three Curators provide another of the same faculty; so the University is alwayes sup∣plied.

Those Students that are written in the University-Book do enjoy great priviledges. They that are above twenty year old, may have fourscore quarts of Wine in a year, which pay no excise, and half a barrell of Beer every moneth free likewise. They give a groat to the Servants of the University every quarter.

The Rector or Chancellor has his Counsellors, before whom are brought all quarrels, and they endeavour to make the parties agree; if they will not, then they may go to a triall be∣fore the University-Counsell, where the Rector presides, and decides without ap∣peal in civil matters. If any of the Stu∣dents have committed a crime that de∣serves death or otherwise, the Officers of justice cannot take him before they have the Rectors consent; and then too

they may not carry him to a loathsome prison, but into the Town-House Hall.

Duels are severely prohibited, ever since a Danish Student was kill'd in one. Besides they are forbid to commit any riot in the night time, or break the Ci∣tizens Windows, under pain of a consi∣derable Fine, and often of being ban∣nish'd.

There is a Watch goes on purpose to hinder such disorders, which takes a∣way Scholars Swords if they be inso∣lent, and carries them to prison, where next day they are produc'd before the University-Counsell. There are also as good Masters for all Exercises, as Ri∣ding, Dancing, &c. as any where, and the Italian, French, and Spanish Tongues are taught excellently well. Here are Students of all Nations of Eu∣rope, most of them Gentlemen of good Families; and often Princes, and great Lords Sons, have been seen to come hither for their education. They all have a dependance upon the Rector; and to this day never any Member of the University was put to death, except a

servant to a Prince, who confess'd him∣self to be the author of a murder that had been committed.

The University has Schools for the different Lectures; and on the North∣side of the great Court, is the famous Printing Press of John Elzevier, so well known for his fair Characters. It is placed upon the Rapembourg, the fairest Street of all the Town; for in the middle of it runs a large Channell, and of each side is a rowe of tall Trees from one end to the other. The Pavy has a little fall towards the Channell, so that it can never be dirty let there fall never so much rain. There are five fair Bridges over this Channell, and abundance of delicate Houses on each side. 'Tis not only this Street that is thus shaded, but all the Town; so that he was in the right that desir'd to know, whether Leyden was in a Wood, or a Wood in Leyden. We should never have done if I would particularize all the singularities of Leyden: the great and most frequented Street begins at the Gate of the Hague, and ends at Utrect Gate; it is the broadest and highest

Street of the Town. The most consi∣derable next is Harlem Street, which has a Channell call'd the old Rhene, in∣to which all the other Channels do fa••l, and which ends it self at Catvic. It is adorn'd with four stone Bridges, one of which is the largest and fairest of all the Town: it is call'd the Corn-Bridge, because that on every Market-day the Countrey people take up their stations upon it with their Corn. There is another likewise call'd the Fish-Bridge, because the Fishermen do there expose their Sea-Fish to sale. The best Fish comes from Catvic; that of Maeslant∣sluys is not valued, as being ordinarily stale.

If this City had but running Water, a great Market-place, and some foun∣tains of clear Water for drink, it would be the pleasantest in all Europe; but no∣thing can be ex omni parte beatum, ac∣complish'd in all points. There has been lately built a Church in a circular figure, admir'd by all Strangers for its incomparable Architecture both within and without. The first Sermon was preach'd in it some weeks before Easter, in the year 1650.

The Town is so populous, by reason that poor people of the neighbouring Countries do seek a refuge here in time of War, that it is a hard matter to get a Chamber in the new Town. Here is the great manufacture of that excellent Cloths which are transported all the world over; they cannot make any such any where else. The fine Wool comes from Spain, and the course from England, and Pom••rania. All sorts of Nations work in the manufacture, where many other Stuffs are made.

In Summer during the hot weather, these Channels do send forth a noysome smell, particularly when the weather inclines to rain; the reason of it is, the drying up of the Lake of Soetermeer, which did use to cleanse the Town by flowing into it. To prevent this, the Magistrates have caus'd two large Channels to be made, and two Mills to be set upon them, to drive the Water into the Town at one end, and two o∣ther that drive or carry it out at the o∣ther end; so that by this invention the City is free'd from that noysom and in∣fectious smell, though often it fail too

in the great heat of Summer, when there is a great calm, and no winde stirring.

We must not omit to speak of the Anatomy-House; it being the place that ought most to attract Strangers eyes, for the singular curiosities that are in it. There you shall see Egyptian Mummiaes, Pagan Idols, Birds and Beasts brought from China, and remo∣ter places, whole Skeletons, and an infinite number of other things, which cannot be here set down, no more than viewed, in a short time. In the fore∣part of this Church, above the Fen∣cing-School that was, and is now the English Church, there is a fine Library full of all sorts of Books in all Tongues; besides the Legacy of great Scaliger, which is a number of Hebrew Books; all the Manuscripts of the Library of Bonaventure, Vulcan, and the Books that Golias brought out of the Levant. There are other private Libraries, which the civility of the owners makes publick: and it is not only the Profes∣sors, but even the Citizens that are cu∣rious in Libraries; insomuch that if Au∣thors

were lost else-where, they would soon be restor'd by the Hollan∣ders.

There are often Libraries publickly sold to them that give most for them; and this way of exposing all sorts of Goods to publick sale, is very ordinary in Holland, and they that buy them have credit for some moneths.

The City has eight Gates all new, with their Bridges. The Galleries be∣yond the Town-Ditch are set with Trees, having on one side the Ram∣part, and on the other are the Gardens and Meadows near the Town.

The City was very un-inhabited for a great while after the siege; the Grass did grow in the Streets, and most of the Houses were thatch'd: but now they are all cover'd with Tile, or blew Slate; and since the year 1636. this Town is embelish'd, and grown better by half in half.

There is an Hospitall for poor Passen∣gers, and decayed old people; as also a Bedlam or place for mad folks; all being very neatly kept, and the sick well serv'd. The Orphans Hospitall

is a noble Building, and of a great ex∣tent. In it are ordinarily about 500. Children, who are taught to read and write, and bound Apprentices as they grow up. Besides this, there are great numbers of Alms-Houses for poor peo∣ple; they call them Hoffies in Dutch: the fairest of these is the Pape∣graft.

The care that is taken in Holland of such Families as cannot get their living, is very remarkable, and deserves praise. In the Winter time there are deliver'd to them at the publick charge, so many Blankets, Sheets, so much Bread, &c. to keep them from dying either by cold or hunger. They that are either over-burdened with Children, or otherwise undone by any accident, go to the Masters of the poor, and receive relief according to their necessities. But this charity is not extended to the poor Catholicks, though the gather∣ings be made generally, and from all Religions. The number of those that have a share in this charity mounts ordinarily to above 20000. in this City.

Every quarter the Magistrate goes through the Town, having before∣hand given notice to the Citizens, and makes a collection of what every one is pleas'd to bestow. And thus all the poor are so supplied, that in any ex∣tremity they cannot want Bread, and so cannot from their necessity take an occasion of rising. This is practis'd through all Holland; but no where so exactly as at Leyden.

In the year 1629. the King of Swede∣land having landed an Army in Borus∣sia, stopt all the Rivers, and hindred the coming of Corn from Poland; whereupon Bread grew so dear of a sudden, that the common people not being able to go to the price, began to mutiny, and some of them broke in upon a Baker. But immediately the Citizens appearing in Arms, dissipated this tumultuous rabble, and having whipt two or three of them, made the rest go quietly home. Then the Ma∣gistrates gave out Rye to the Bakers, to distribute to such poor as should bring such a mark in testimony of their po∣verty.

Every year in April the Magistrates go through all the Town, and every one must set forth before his door his Fire-Ladder, Buckets, and Sayl, to the end that if Fire should happen any where, it might be readily extinguish'd. This is a very laudable custome, and observ'd over all Holland. All night long in Winter, from nine of the clock to four in the morning, there are men that go through every Street with a Bell, singing the hours and half-hours. They are bound to convey to their Lodgings all drunken people, and such as have lost their way. They take care against Fires; give warning to those that have not shut their doors.

In Summer they begin at ten of the clock, and retire at four in the morn∣ing. They that set upon them or af∣front them, are severely punish'd; as was seen lately at the Hague, where a great Lord having in drink kill'd one of them, was notwithstanding all power∣full intercessions, beheaded, to be an example to every one else.

The Magistrates that administer ju∣stice are chosen out of the forty Nota∣bles,

all Protestants, and rich Citizens. Out of these are chosen every year four Bourgemasters at St. Martins Feast in November, and seven Aldermen on St. James day in July.

There is besides another Assembly, call'd the Masters of the Pupils and Or∣phans; before whom such Men or Wo∣men that have Children, but desire to marry again, must appear, and take their Oath that they have conceal'd no part of their Estate, but that their In∣ventory is good and true; and then the Parents are bound to breed them accor∣ding to their quality, and to assign them a summe of Money upon an im∣moveable, proportionable to the prin∣cipall.

The Towns has besides, its Over∣seers and Surveyors for Building; that when any thing, as Bridges or Gates, &c. requires repair, it may be speedily done.

Every year there are two great Fairs at Leyden, during which time no man can be arrested for Debt. The chiefest is held on Ascension day, and lasts eight dayes. Upon the Monday the Citizens

meet in the Dozles, a place full of Trees, where every one may exercise in shooting with Cross-bowes, and Bowes and Arrows. It is a very plea∣sant place, by reason of the shady Walks, and of two good Taverns that are in it; in the Windows of one of which are represented all the Earls of Holland, down to Philip King of Spain. In most of the Towns of Holland there are of these Dozles, which shews the warlike temper of these Nations, so far as to be able to preserve their liber∣ties.

In this place the six Companies of Ci∣tizens, which make near 2000 men, do use to train. The most ancient Cap∣tain has the Van. They appear with great glory, and perform their Exerci∣ses very well.

The other Fair is that which us'd to be held in memory of the deliverance of Leyden, and was wont to last ten dayes; but it is now put down, and the Story only represented in a Tragedie, to which there is great flocking.

Now let us say something about their way of selling Houses, Gar∣dens, &c.

'Tis ordinarily about the end of No∣vember till February, that Houses are to be sold. There is a note set up decla∣ring the situation of the House, the Owner, the Neighbours, the name of him that lives in it, and his Trade; and lastly, the House where the Bargain is to be driven on a set day. The day be∣ing come, all those that have a mind to it come to the House appointed, which is ordinarily a Tavern. And thus the business is managed:

An Attorney with a Cryer goes through all the Chambers, where there is Company, reads the Conditions up∣on which it is to be sold, and declares whether there be any Rent charg'd up∣on it or no. The Cryer asks them if they have all heard, and observ'd well what has been read, and who amongst them will se•••• a price upon the House. For example, a House shall be worth 600. pound; and in the first Chamber there will be offer'd 320. then the Cry∣er goes to the second Chamber, and tells them that the House has been al∣ready valued at 320. thereupon it may be some body offers 20. more. Then

he goes to the third, and so to all; and it may be the House is rais'd to 400. pounds. Then he comes back to the first, and tells them, Gentlemen, the House is valued at 400. then it may be some body addes 20. more. The Cry∣er goes back to all the Chambers, and if no body offer more, he goes to the seller, and tells him what is offer'd for his House; if ••he does not like the price, he bids the Cryer 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that if there be any body that will speak to the seller, he may come to him. And if he be very desirous to be rid of his House, then he sends a Duccatoon or two, with this condition, that he that will raise 50. pound in the price, shall have the money. The Cryer goes back and tells the company; then he that sayes first (to me) has the money. Then the Cryer goes back, and his Master gives him more money: for example, if the first were two Duccatoons for 50. pounds, the second money shall be two Duccatoons, and two Angels in gold, for him that shall bid 30. pound more. If that be taken, then he brings a great∣er summe still, till there be no body

left that will take any more money; and all those that do take any are ob∣lig'd to declare their names. This be∣ing done, it may be does not yet make up above 500. pound; then the Cryer tells them, Gentlemen, my Master would fain make 600. pound of his House. I will bate the other 100. pound by degrees; then he begins, 90. 80. 70. 60. 50. 40. 30. 20. 10. till there be some body that speaks; and then the House is sold for 500. pound, and so much odd money as hath been taken. If he bate all, and no body speak, then he that took the last mo∣ney is the buyer, and must give in se∣curity the same night. If it happen that some body has drawn money, un∣der hopes of being out-bid, with inten∣tion to keep the money, if unluckily for him no body does out-bid him, he must take the House; if he can give no security, he is carried to prison, and publickly whipt, to give example to the rest. The House thus sold, and se∣curity given, the buyer is to pay all the charges, which come to 10. pounds at least, so that they that have been there, are scot-free.

The Gardens and Tombs are sold or∣dinarily after the same manner; the money to be laid down in three pay∣ments, and of every 40. Crowns, the City is to have one, which is a great re∣venue to it. Thus I have describ'd at length the way of selling, because it is almost the same thing in all the other Towns of Holland.

In the year 1635. and 36. it pleas'd God to visit Holland, and parti∣cularly Leyden, with a great Plague, insomuch that the Church-yards could not hold the dead, but the Bastions were taken to bury them in.

At the same time, or a little after, the Plague being somewhat over, War was proclaim'd between the two Crowns of France and Spain, that made many people who before liv'd upon the Frontiers, come and seek refuge at Leyden; they fill'd up the empty Hou∣ses. Seven years after by the com∣mand of the Magistrates, the Church-yards were levell'd, the dead bones transported else-where, and Trees planted, which now do begin to grow.

There are many other particularities; as the Prison where the Count William was born. The Count Florent was also born at Leyden.

In the Chamber of the Bourgemasters, there is a Picture of Luke of Leyden's making, which was so valued by the Emperor Rodolf, that he offer'd to give as many pieces of gold for it, as would cover it. It represents the day of Judgement.

John of Leyden, a Taylor, was in the first change of the Roman Religion, made King of the Anabaptists; and ha∣ving seized Munster, he made himself be treated as a King, wearing a Crown of gold; and when he did go abroad, had alwayes two Boyes before him, one of which carried a Sword, and the other the Bible. All that did not fall down and worship him were immedi∣ately condemned to die, and executed. He kept 14. Wives, and caus'd one to be kill'd, because she despis'd his in∣spirations. The Bishop laid siege to the place, and John made the people endure as much as ever Saguntum or Je∣rusalem endur'd, assuring them still of a

sudden deliverance. But at last the Town was taken, and the King with his accessaries taken and punish'd as they deserv'd. They keep yet at Ley∣den the Table upon which this Taylor did use to sit and work. May all those that disobey their Magistrates come to as bad an end.

CHAP. VIII.

Of the Territory about Ley∣den.

THe Territory about Leyden is call'd Rhinlant, where is made the best Butter of all Holland. It is full of many fine Villages, which for the nobleness of their Buildings might be reckoned small Towns.

I will begin with Rinsbourg, which was anciently a well fortified Town. About a league from it, Petronella, Sister to the Emperor Lotair, founded an Abbey for Nuns of quality; and by

its ruines it ap〈…〉〈…〉 have been a fine structure. The〈…〉〈…〉 many ancient Epitaphs; one I have seen of a Nun in the year 1218. It did depend for the spirituall on the Bishoprick of Utrect, and so did all Holland, there being in it never a Bishops See; but not for the temporall, as some have writ. The Earls of Holland and their Ladies did use to be buried here.

A league further is Nortvic, within a mile of the Sea. Because of the plea∣santness of the place many Gentlemen live in it. Valkenbourg next is a fa∣mous place for the Horse-Fair held there every moneth of September; I have been told, that before the War there did come to it Merchants from all parts of the world. It is a very plea∣sant place, as well as Catvic, where live many rich men that live of their re∣venues. The Rhene did anciently enter the Sea here; and there was a square Castle built at the mouth of the River, but it is now buried under water. We find it written, that there were the Ro∣mans Magazines and Store-houses a∣gainst the English. Of late when the

Sea has been very 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••y a constant South-wind, the 〈…〉〈…〉ndations have been seen.

In Summer the Scholars and Citizens go to wash there, and eat fresh Fish; as also to breathe the salt Air of the Sea, which is held very wholesome. They that hire Horses may go all along the shore by the two Catvicks, and Walc∣kembourg, and return by Nortvic, Rinsbourg, and Oestgeest. Wassenaer is situated just by the sandy Downs; it did formerly belong to the Prince de Lime, but now it belongs to the ho∣nourable Family of the Wassenaers.

Warmout is a league and half from the Town on Harlem-side. By the way are two or three very fine Farms; and particularly one near the Channell: when you have pass'd the Bridge, you leave upon your right hand Lochorst, and then you come into the most delici∣ous Village in the world; the Lord of it is Mr. James Wassenaer, whose Fa∣ther was Admiral, and has eminently serv'd the publick in military and civil employments. The Arminians have a Church here; the Church is on the

out-side of the Village; as also the Lords House, which is a fair Castle, with a Moat round about it.

Oestgeest is a Village in the Sands, which belongs to the Corporation of the City of Leyden. I my self have seen the Sand taken away three foot deep, carried to the Town and there sold; and an Acre of that ground which before was not worth 20. pound, made worth fourscore. Soutervoude is to the South, at a leagues distance from the Town; the way to it lies through Lam, leav∣ing on your left hand the Castle of Cro∣nestien, a fine House, and Gardens. This Village is little, but it is in a fine Soil, and has the best pasture grounds about Leyden.

The Magistrates have bought the Lordship of it; as also that of Leyder∣dorp, a Village that has more Palaces than Countrey peoples Houses. 'Tis here where we must admire the magni∣ficence of the Citizens; for one would think that there were an emulation be∣tween them, who should shew most marks of riches by their expences. It is built on both sides the Rhene, that

goes through it; and behinde the Hou∣ses in the Meadows is a Church, be∣hinde which there was formerly a Mo∣nasterie. Between Leyden and Fer∣rie there was another Nunnerie, which was built upon a clayish ground, out of which Bricks are made now. In the year 1616. the Work-men found in digging two Meddals of gold, repre∣senting the Emperor Nero to the life; I have seen them both. Woorschoten is another fine Village, belonging to Monsieur de Duvenvoord, whose Father was Keeper of the Great Seal. Here∣abouts the Countrey is so delicious, that it is a kind of Paradise upon earth; as well because of the diversity of Fields, Meadows, and Woods, as of the prospect of so many stately Edifices, and neat Gardens.

The Countrey people wear very good Cloathes, ordinarily of black, but without Cloaks. Their Wives have gold Rings on their fingers. It is not very rare to meet with Peasants here worth 10000. pound; they enjoy as great a liberty as any Citizen. Every Village has its Bailif, Secretary, Bourge∣master,

and Judges; and besides a cer∣tain sort of Countreymen that they call Welboremans, that is, men of a good Family, and well descended.

Alphen is half way to Woorde, and takes its name from a Roman Knight. There are very few Antiquities to be seen in Holland, because that all the Countrey has been chang'd and new peopled, and the Towns and Villages new built; so that there are no foot∣steps of what it was, it is so encreased in riches and beauty. I come now to Caudekerk, where there is a fair Castle belonging to Monsi••ur de Podgeest. All these Villages have their Fairs once a year, which anciently were never kept without some skirmish at Back-sword. The stoutest did use to hang up a Back-sword, and he that did come and touch it, was engaged in a combate, which was to be perform'd after this manner: First the parties break off the points of their Swords; then they take their Hats in their left hands to defend their faces, and nevertheless they often pare off a Cheek, or a Nose, or so. But these Duels are strictly forbidden,

and severely punish'd, if attempt∣ed.

This Countrey is so finely diversifi∣ed, that it wants nothing for a perfect prospect. For though Vines do not naturally grow in it, yet by the indu∣stry of the Inhabitants, there are many which produce Grapes enough for their eating. And as for Wine, they are sufficiently furnish'd by Sea.

Now I come back to the Town, and observe, that it is the Garden of all the adjacent Province for Lettice, Parsley, Carrets, Pease, Beans, Parshley, &c. which are transported to Zeeland and Utrect. At Amsterdam you shall hear them cry, Leyden Parsnips. And in∣deed the Gardiners industry is most ad∣mirable, for they have five or six crops in a year upon the same ground. I was desirous to know how much an Acre of ground might be worth to be sold; and it was answer'd, that Meadow was a∣bout sevenscore pound an Acre; Corn grounds about 200. but Gardenage a∣bout 250. and sometimes 300. pound an Acre.

Every day at six of the clock goes off

the first Boat for Amsterdam, and at twelve a clock the last; at eight and at eleven for Harlem; at twelve for U∣trect. There are eight Barks for the Hague, and as many for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 elft. And so from these two Towns for Leyden; from the Spring to October they go out at five a clock; and after, at half an hour past five. The Arms of the Town are the Cross Keyes.

The Citizens are govern'd with so much moderation by the Magistrates, that since the beginning of the Com∣monwealth to this day, there has been no tumult nor rising by reason of Tax∣es, Impositions, or the coming of Strangers, or for any other cause.

But now let us come to that power∣full City, from which Neptune seems to take his Orders; I mean Amsterdam.

CHAP. IX.

Of Amsterdam.

THis Town which has not its like in the whole world, if we consider its Commerce, the conveniency of its Harbour, and the means it has of set∣ting out powerfull Fleets, takes its name from a Castle built upon Ye, be∣longing to the Lords of Amstel. It is seven leagues distant from Leyden, and you may go to it four different wayes; the most ordinary is that of the great Lake; the next by Harlem, and by the Channell made lately; the third in a Waggon, or on Horseback, by the Veenes; and the fourth by the night-Boat, that you meet at Leyderdorp. Since the late Wars, this Town is en∣creased above two thirds; and there∣fore we shall inquire into its Antiqui∣ties.

Many think that at first it was but a little Village for Fishermen, which has

encreas'd by little and little. In the year 1296. the Lord of Amstel was one of the Confederates of Gerrard de Vel∣sen, who kill'd the Count Florent.

1470. the Town was wall'd with a brick Wall, to resist the invasions of those of U••rect, who had often brought the Town into great danger. Not long after it was almost all consum'd by fire; then built again, and according as Trade encreas'd, it grew bigger still, and richer. The Emperor Maximi∣lian in acknowledgement of the good services they had done him, and as a testimony of their industry and Trade, added an Imperial Crown over their Coat of Arms, which are three Crosses, almost like St. Andrews.

There was formerly in it three Mo∣nasteries for men, and thirteen Nun∣neries, which are all now employed to other uses.

The Factions of the Houcs and the Cabelians have often afflicted this noble City, like those of the G••elphes and Gi∣belins in Italy. But that which brought it nearest its ruine, was the attempt made by the Anabaptists.

In the year 1525. that wicked King of Munster desiring to strengthen his party, by the addition of some conside∣rable place, sent one of his Emissaries, nam'd Golen; who passing through Friezeland rais'd great tumults and se∣ditions there: which being quash'd, he fled to Amsterdam, and there lurking for a while, struck in at last with a man of his own principles, call'd Groet Be∣lite, and they two together resolv'd to make a party, and set upon the Town at some unexpected hour. They got together the chief of their Sect, and made a resolution to fall on at midnight by the sound of a Bell; but this wicked plot was discover'd just upon its execu∣tion, and with much ado hindred: for a young man of their side went and told the Magistrates, that the Anabaptists to the number of 600. were marching to seize the Town. While they were yet in deliberation, they heard the sound of Drums, and found that the Anabap∣tists had already gotten into the Mar∣ket-place, and invaded the Town∣house. In this confusion a Citizen had the fore-sight to carry away the Rope

of the Bell, which the seditious did in∣tend to ring, as a signall to all theirs to unite, and a terrour to the sleepy Citi∣zens, that did luckily contribute much to the saving of the City. For by this time, the Magistrates having sent a∣bout, and got many House-keepers un∣der Arms, resolv'd to stop up all the Avenues to the Market-place with Hop∣sacks, and make a strong Barricado be∣hinde them. The morning come, gave the Townsmen leave to see the great∣ness of the wickedness intended, and the inconsiderable number of the sediti∣ous; who seeing themselves exposed to be pelted in that wide place, took san∣ctuary in the Town-house, but thither they were pursued and cut in pieces, some few scaping by the favour of the night that came on. This conjuration thus quell'd, the Magistrates forbid the Citizens under great penalties, to lodg any Stranger that should be infected with such dangerous principles. Yet in the year 1515. there were more of these Fanaticks, both men and women, that running naked through the Streets with horrible cryes, had like to have

surprized the Town-house, but they were suppress'd and punish'd. The Anabap∣tists of this age do renounce them, for they do not hold it lawfull to fight at all.

All this great Town is built upon Pi∣lotis, which are great Trees driven by main force into the ground, which is all moorish, to be as a foundation to build upon; and ordinarily it costs as much laying, as all the rest of the Fabrick does building up. The Town is like a Crescent, or half Moon, which ere it be long will fill up its round. In the Port there are so many Vessels, that we may say that he that has not seen Am∣sterdam, has not seen a Harbour: for in the Spring, from one end to the other of it, there is such a forrest of Masts, that Strangers are struck with wonder, and do believe, with reason, that all the Harbours of the world together cannot make so many Sayl.

Every year in April there goes out a great Fleet for the Baltic Sea; I have heard many say, that in that Fleet in the time of War do go above 1500. Sayl of Ships: then reckon all those that go for

France, and elsewhere, and all the Barks that are upon the Channels in the Town.

The finest Streets are the Fosses, the Imperial, the Royal, the Cingel, the Street of Harlem, which is all newly built There are also three prodigious Sluces; and all the Bridges that were formerly of wood, are now of stone, with iron Vails and Balasters.

The Town house which is now a building, the foundations of which have cost many hundred thousands of pounds, is to be a Master-piece, and a miracle beyond the seven that Antiquity bragg'd so much of.

In the year 1595. the Monasterie of Sancta Clara was chang'd into a House of correction, call'd the Tucht Huyse, for those Children that will not be obedient to their Parents. At the coming in, there are two Lions upon the door, bridled, as an emblem to the wilde youth of the Town. They make them work; some sawe Brasil-wood, others do harder things, according to their faults and dispositions. If they refuse to work, they are put into a low Cellar,

and water is let in upon them; if they will stand still and be drown'd, they may; if they will pump and deliver themselves, then they are help'd out again.

Some are put in for their life, others for a certain time. As lately there is a Law, that whosoever draws his Knife to strike another, shall either pay 10. pound fine, or work three moneths in the House of correction. Some are put in by their rich Parents, not to work, but only to put a stop to their extrava∣gant expences, and they come out when they give testimonies of their re∣pentance, and desire to mend.

The same year there was a like House set up for young Maids, that should live in a licentious way. Every year in August it is free for all people to go in, and see the miserable condition of these offenders.

The great Hospital has above 4000. pound a year; besides, it is thought that every year there are distributed many thousands of pounds to poor Fa∣milies.

The East-India Company has a no∣ble

House, full of rich treasure; as al∣so the Bank-Generall, in which are al∣wayes many millions. This Company is grown so powerfull, that they can set out a Fleet of men of War if need be; and in the Indies they make no∣thing of waging War with Kings, as lately with the King of Java, and yet drove on their Trade too.

There are here many fair Churches; but I shall mention only that of St. Ka∣therine, burn'd down in 1645. and is now built again better than before. Hard by the said Church are laid the foundations of a Tower, which is to be exceeding high; 6000, 300, and odd great Trees have been driven into a piece of ground of about a 100. foot square, to be Pilotis for the foundation of the Tower. In the Church the Mi∣nisters Pulpit is contriv'd with great art, with the four Evangelists, and a Tower above it. In the Glass-windows is the good Emperor Maximilian his Pi∣cture.

There are two great Suburbs or Fauxbonrgs, one upon the way to U∣trect, and the other that goes to Over∣tom,

a Village where the Boats that come from Leyden pass upon Rowlers. There is built a fair Pest-house.

'Tis commonly said that this City is very like Venice; for my part I believe Amsterdam to be much superiour in riches: though the most serene State of Venice can bragg of having maintain'd a War for this twenty year, against the whole force of the Turks, without as∣sistance from any but the Pope. This Town is exceedingly well govern'd; every ones liberty preserv'd, and safe∣ty provided for all: and even in the night-time you may go any where, without fear of being robb'd or kill'd.

The Air is not quite so good as at Leyden, by reason that it is environ'd with Marishes, which make it in accessi∣ble; but it is better seated for Trade, which is its life. Let us go to Harlem.

CHAP. X.

Of Harlem, and some Villa∣ges round about it.

I Shall speak very little of the Anti∣quity of this pleasant Town; for in the darkness of past times it is so hard to distinguish fables from truth, that it will make any wise person forbear from obtruding old Stories upon an ingenu∣ous Reader.

The first time we find any mention made of the valour of its Inhabitants, is in the year 1245. when Pope Innocent at the Council of Lyons made St. Lewis King of France, and William Earl of Holland undertook the relief of the holy Land. For the Army being come before Da∣mietta, a great Chain did hinder the ap∣proach of the Navy: this the Harlem∣men undertook to break, and did exe∣cute their design, giving entry to the whole Fleet; in memory of which the Town has for Arms, a Sword with four

Stars, and a Cross at the end of it.

William King of the Romans gave the Inhabitants many great priviledges. But if the victory carried in Palestina made them famous, the Art of Printing here invented has made them as remar∣kable: though Me••ts an Electorall Town does claim the same honour, but not so justly; for it was by a Prentice who upon Christmas-Eve run away from Harlem, with the Letters and In∣struments serving to the Art of Print∣ing, taking his time when all the peo∣ple were at Church. Laurent Coster was the name of the man that invented this Art.

In the year 1292. the Faction of the Casembrots seized upon the Town, and plunder'd the Houses of most of the considerable Citizens; but it was crush'd by Albert Duke of Saxony, and the Town condemn'd to a Fine of 27000. Crowns, and to the loss of its priviledges.

In the year 1574. the Spaniards un∣der the conduct of Frederick, Son to the Duke of Alba, having taken Sut∣phenen,

and cruelly cut the throats of all the Townsmen of Naerden, came and laid siege to Harlem: the Garri∣son was 4000. strong, and refusing all conditions of a surrender, made brave sallyes upon them, hanging the Spanish prisoners upon the Walls; and in deri∣sion of the tenth penny which the Spa∣niard would levy, throwing over to them eleven Heads of their prisoners. But the Spaniards were sufficiently re∣veng'd, for they forced them to yeeld at discretion, though the very Women fought valiantly for their liberty.

This Town is rather long than square, and is wash'd by the River Sparen.

In the Market-place is the Town∣house, a stately Building; and over against it is the great Church, dedicated to St. Bavon: it is looked upon as the finest Church in all Holland.

There are many Meadows about the Town; and on the Sea-side mountains of Sand; and there is a Wood towards Leyden, about half a mile from the Town, which is a great diversion to the Citizens, not only of Harlem, but of

Amsterdam. Towards the North there are Suburbs and great Gardens. Har∣lem is pretty populous, and holds a per∣petuall communication with Amster∣dam and Leyden by Boats, which go and come at all hours. In the year 1657. was made a Channell between Leyden and the said Town.

The greatest Trade of Harlem is in Linnen; for there is the finest and whitest Holland. There are likewise many Weavers: I remember I was told that once all these Weavers for∣sook their Trade, and turn'd Tulip-Merchants, at the time when the fancy for Tulips did reign over all the Low-Countries and France. Besides, they do brew excellent Beer in this Town, which being transported into Frieze∣land grows better there than in Harlem it self.

The Villages round about are Hem∣stede, Sparenvow, Tetrode, &c. There are also the Castles of Brederode, Har∣lee, and Velsen; of which there remains little but the ruines. Monsieur Adrian Paw, Lord of Hemstede, &c. has com∣pil'd there a fair Library of Books, of

all Languages and Sciences, and such a one as will hardly be match'd by any private person. He is a very eminent man, employed as Plenipotentiary in the Treaty at Munster; though some do endeavour to cast aspersions upon him, as if he had had a hand in the troubles of England.

Between Harlem and Leyden there are many fair Villages; amongst which Helegon, Lys, and Tassum, are three of the best, not above a league distant from one another. Not far from them is the House of Feiling, now belonging to his High∣ness the Prince of Orange; and a noble Castle that Monsieur Dalmade has caus'd to be built of late. In coming from Harlem to Leyden, you have the Downs or sandy Hills on the right hand, and on the left the great Lake of Harlem which is alwayes co∣ver'd with Boats, going and coming with Merchandizes.

CHAP. XI.

Of Delft, and its Villages.

THis Town is situated in a Plain a∣mongst pleasant Meadows, and was built by Godfrey the Crooked, Duke of Lorrain, who had conquer'd Holland by the assistance of the Bishop of U∣trect. I find nothing in our Annals concerning this place that is memora∣ble, except that after a siege of six weeks, the Town was taken by Albert of Bavaria, because they had receiv'd the Faction of the Hoves: the Town was dis-mantled, the Castle pull'd down, and the Inhabitants fin'd 10000. Crowns to the Duke.

In the year 1536. in the moneth of May, the Town was burnt down by accident; and it was observ'd that a — not being able to save her young ones, because they were not fledged, flew her self into the flame, and died with them: but out of

the ashes of this rose a much more no∣ble Town.

1584. The Prince William of Orange was traiterously kill'd by a Bourguignon, and there lies buried in a pompous Mo∣nument, in acknowledgement of the great actions he perform'd for the pub∣lick liberty.

There are two fair Churches, which have each a very high Steeple; and a Town-house at the end of the Market-place, with an Inscription in Latin up∣on it, to this purpose:

This House hates, loves, punishes, con∣serves, and honours, Wickedness, Peace, Crimes, Laws, good men. Haec Domus odit, amat, punit, conser∣vat, honorat, Nequitiam, Pacem, Crimina, Jura, bonos.

They have here a great Trade of Beer, which they brew very well. The Town is not so big as Leyden, but it has a fairer Market-place; and though there be not so much Trade, nor the Houses so richly adorn'd on the inside, yet are there very rich Citizens.

The Countrey about lies lower than about Leyden; therefore in certain sea∣sons, as when the Wind is North-East, if they should open their Sluces, all the Meadows about Delft would be over∣flown. Delft is but four leagues from Leyden, and you have the convenience of a Waggon. Between these two Towns lies Lordsendam, a great and fair Village, which grows rich since the Channell of Leyden was made. There are two great Sluces to preserve the Countrey about Delft.

Voorburg is a little on one side the Channell, and is the ancientest Village in Holland. There are yet to be seen some foundations of a strong Castle built by the Romans, as it appears by the Inscriptions of the Stones that are every day taken from among the ru∣ines. It being so near the Hague, and upon the passage of so many people, seems rather a Town than a Village. It is but two leagues and a half from Leyden, and one league from the Hague.

Losdun is a Village near the Hague, in which was a Nunnery for Gentle∣men,

and Noblemens Daughters, and no others; founded by Margaret, Countess of Holland, whose Daughter Machtilde was brought abed of 365. Children at once, as many as there are dayes in the year; who were all bapti∣zed by Otho, Bishop of Utrect: the name of John was given to the males, and that of Elizabeth to the females, who all died the same day with their Mother. The Story sayes that this Princess refus'd Alms to a poor Wo∣man, that had Twins in her Arms, say∣ing, that they were not of one mans getting; whereupon the poor Woman finding her self unjustly suspected, wish'd her as many at a time as there were dayes in the year. In memory of this History there is a Picture hung up in the Church, with an Inscription to this purpose; Here is a monstrous and memorable thing, which has not had its like since the beginning of the world: Reader, having perused this Story, go away and admire it.

Near the Meuse there is a Castle with 365. Windows, which are the names of the said Children; and yet there are

many people that do not believe this Story at all. This Village has a sandy ground on one side of it, and on the other a fertile Corn-Countrey, call'd Vestland.

CHAP. XII.

Of Dort.

THis Town is very ancient, and rich, by reason of the great a∣bundance of all sorts of Merchandizes that come down the Rhene. Its situati∣on is incomparable; for it is environ'd with the Waters of the Rhene and Meuse, which make it a place of great Trade. It is call'd the Maiden Town, because it was never taken, though of∣ten besieged, and once particularly by the Duke of Brabant, in the year 1304. For he having conquer'd a great part of Holland, and committed all sorts of inhumanities upon that Na∣tion, sate down at last before Dort; but the Citizens unexpectedly sallying

out upon him, routed his whole Army, and pursued him to Bosleduke; and in their way home, obtain'd a victory over the Flemmings at Isselmond.

In the year 1421. upon St. Kathe∣rines day, the Banks broke near Dort, and about threescore and ten fair Villa∣ges were swallowed up by this unmerci∣full Element of Water; and above a 100000. men died miserably with their Wives and Children. It is said, that a wicked Countrey-Boor being en∣vious of his Neighbours prosperity, made one night a Hole in the Bank, that he might drown him and all his Fa∣mily in their Beds, with a design of stopping it again: but the Tide coming in with a strong Winde, broke quite through; first drown'd this perfidious Rogue, and then overwhelm'd all that stood in its way. Since the Water ha∣ving by little and little been driven a∣way by the industry of the infatigable Inhabitants, they have drain'd most part of that which lay under Water, and discover'd some Villages. There is hopes of getting all, during this peace; but it can only be done in the great heat of Summer.

As it happens often, that when we are ignorant of the cause of a thing, we are apt to attribute it to some invisible supernaturall power, or to our sins, that provoke Gods anger; so some have said, that these Villages were drown'd, because they did make ill use of their great riches; that they would not wear any other than golden Spurrs, and liv'd in a great magnificence.

But let us return to the Town, which by an unlucky accident of Fire had like to have been quite destroyed; there were burn'd above 2000. Houses, with the Town-house, and Cathedral-Church.

1618. the National Syn••d was held in the same Town, under the Authority of the high and mighty Lords the States Generall, to decide those Controver∣sies that were risen concerning Prede∣stination. There were present many learned men both from France and o∣ther parts; amongst others, the most Reverend Father in God the Archbi∣shop of Canterbury, who since was be∣headed in the troubles in England.

Dort was the place where was born

that factious Preacher, Brother Corneli∣us Adrian, of whom the people to this day tell so many pleasant Stories. For my part, I have heard worthy per∣sons say, that he was really a very elo∣quent person, who did ravish his hear∣ers with admiration; but that he did handle some points, that were a little too free in those dayes; but he fear'd no body. He died at Bruges.

It is to be observ'd, that when the Earls of Holland were to be inaugura∣ted, that is, acknowledged for lawfull Princes, they did first come into Dort, and there did swear to the States to ob∣serve all their liberties and priviledges, from whom consequently they did re∣ceive an Oath of Allegiance. In the Assembly of the States of Holland, the Dort-Deputies have the first place, and speak first.

Before the Town are taken great quantities of all sorts of Fish, and par∣ticularly of Salmon; for in one year there were sold in the said Town 892. Salmons: and it is commonly said, that Servants put it in their bargain, that they shall not eat Salmon above twice a Week.

There is a very convenient Port for ••ll Merchandizes coming down the ••hene; and it is in this City that all the Rhenish Wine is first unloaden. But this is enough of the first Town of Hol∣land in dignity; which besides the beauty of its Edifices, is placed in a fruitfull Soyl, and a temperate Air. Leyden is distant ten leagues from Dort, and the ordinary way is by Water.

CHAP. XIII.

Of Goude.

THis is the sixth and last of the great Towns, five leagues from Ley∣den. It lies upon the River Yss••l, upon the conjunction of two Rivers, of which the Waters are clear, and full of Fish. There are many delicious Gar∣dens for the Citizens diversion; and the Air is exceeding good.

In the year 1272. it was built by the Count Florent, and adorn'd with many priviledges; a 100. years after it was

burnt down to the ground; as likewise in the year 1420. in the War between Jacqueline of Bavaria, and Philip of Burgundy.

There is a fine Market-place, in the middle of which is the Town-house; and near it is the great Church, which has been twice burnt. Before the Wars it us'd to be much admir'd for its Bells; as also for the Glass-Win∣dows, which are very curiously ena∣mel'd.

The Air is so good here that the Plague is never in the City; there be∣ing no standing Waters near it; and yet the situation of the Town is such, that there is no bringing any Artillery to beat it, for the Inhabitants can by their Sluces drown all the Countrey round about. Besides, it is environ'd with so deep a Ditch, that it strikes ter∣rour into a beholder. The Citizens are most of them people that search a retreat from the World, and love quiet and peace. After Leyden, 'tis the pret∣tiest and wholesomest Town in Hol∣land.

CHAP. XIV.

Of Rotterdam.

THis Town which is now one of the greatest and most Trading-Towns of Holland, is nevertheless but the first of the small Towns.

In 1270. it was first wall'd; and 27. years after it was taken by the Flem∣mings.

In 1418. Brederode, head of the Faction of the Hoves, surprized it. It is a place that does every day augment, and grow bigger, by reason of the great resort of Shipping to its Harbour. There is made the best Beer in all Hol∣land. When the Prince of Orange was in the Field, he did use to drink no o∣ther than Rotterdam-Beer. Some years ago there was an English man of War cast away in the Harbour; and since there has been spent a great deal of Money to get it up again, but all in vain.

The great Erasmus, so well known, 〈…〉〈…〉 his Learning and Books, was born 〈…〉〈…〉 in 1467, and died at Fryburg in Alsatia; there is his Statue in Copper, upon the Bridge, with his Book in his hand. This Town is the next to Am∣sterdam for Trade; and here are to be met with, Ships for England, Scot∣land, France, Spain, and the In∣dies.

CHAP. XV.

Of the small Towns of Hol∣land.

WIthin half a league of Rotter∣dam, there is a pretty Bur∣rough, call'd Delfs-haven; so nam'd, because that the Duke Albert of Ba∣varia, in acknowledgement of the ser∣vices he had received from those of Delft, granted them the liberty of ma∣king a Port from Overschia, a Village that is about half way between Delft and Rotterdam. The Inhabitants are

most of them Seamen, and send o〈…〉〈…〉 very year great numbers of B〈…〉〈…〉 for the fishing of Herring. Its 〈◊〉〈◊〉 on is such, that with small cost it might be so fortified, as to be made im∣pregnable. Upon the same River, a league off, is Schiedam, a famous Town for Fishing. Vlarding is hard by, a small Village, but formerly a strong Town; the Meuse being a little too near it, has devoured a great part of it. Masanluys is a fair Burrough, two leagues lower; the Inhabitants whereof are most Fishermen. They that take shipping at the Bril, go through this Burrough.

Having cross'd the Meuse, which is above a league broad in this place, you come to the Briel, which is at the mouth of the River, and all Ships that come from Rotterdam, pass before it. This Town was taken by onset by the Count of Lumay, in 1572. and it was the first place that the Water-Gueux took from the Spaniards; and here were laid the first foundations of that Commonwealth, which now flourishes in the Netherlands. The Town is po∣pulous,

and the Territory fruitfull in Wheat; but the Air is thick, and thence proceeds the extream rudeness of its Inhabitants, a vice common to all Sea-Towns.

But let us cross the Meuse again to go to the Hague; and in our way see St. Grave-sant, a place where formerly the Earls of Holland did use to keep their Court. The Countrey round about is very fruitfull in Corn and Pasture∣grounds. Here are made those green Cheeses which the Hollanders do so much value.

Not far off is Hontslardick, where the last Prince of Orange of glorious memory built a most stately House, a∣dorn'd with Walks and Galleries, and much visited by Strangers.

Riisvick is another fair Village, where the said Prince has another House, in a very pleasant situation a∣mong the Meadows, and being full in the eyes of those that come from Delft. It is full of excellent Pictures of the best Masters of Europe. And now let us en∣ter the Hague, the delicatest Burrough in the whole World, as all those that

have seen any thing abroad, do wil∣lingly confess.

CHAP. XVI.

Of the Hague.

THis place, which by the breadth of its Streets, the nobleness of its Buildings, the pleasant shade of its Trees, and the civility of its Inhabi∣tants, may justly claim the title of the most pleasant place in the World, and make all men envy the happiness of those that live in it, has on Delft-side an extent of lovely Meadows; and on the other side over against them the sandy Hills, that keep in the Sea, which is but half a league distant from the Town. And upon the shore is Scheve∣ling, which furnishes the C••tizens with fresh Fish.

That side which is towards Leyden, is a great Wood of Oaks, where there is a Park full of Deer; the Earls of Hol∣land did formerly reside here, and now

the Prince of Orange does keep in it a most splendid Court. On one side o•• this Wood is a great Pond, round a∣bout which of late are built many noble Houses. The Dozles make the corner; Prince William laid the first Stone of them himself. Behinde the Court, over against the other corner, is a House built by Prince Maurice of Nas∣saw, in which are the Pictures of most of the Kings of Europe, with many ra∣rities from America.

The Voorhout, with the House to∣wards the Princes Palace, on the Ponds, make the finest part of the Hague. Here every evening are seen many Lords and Ladies taking the Air, some in their Coaches, and some afoot.

The Jacobins Cloister is still call'd the Cloister-Church. There is another Church lately built in a round figure, and there is not a fairer out-side in all the 17. Provinces; within there is ne∣ver a Pillar, insomuch that the Minister in his Pulpit may be seen and heard by all those that are in the Church. The Chappell of the Earls of Holland is now the Fr••nch Church.

There are two very fine Piazzaes, one before and the other behinde the Princes Palace, where all the Houses are like so many Palaces themselves; there live the Deputies of the States Ge∣nerall. The Towns have each of them built Houses for their Deputies; and that which is for Leyden, is to my liking the best, and most advantagiously situ∣ated. The Embassadors of Princes have also their Houses here.

The Market-place is before the great Church, which has a very high square Steeple, and may be seen a great way off. There is another fine Street, though not finish'd, call'd Le fosse du Prince; here live many Strangers, some for business, and others for their advantage. There are many French; they have a Quarter to themselves. Besides, there are many people of qua∣lity that keep their Coaches, and contri∣bute much, to make the Court at the Hague one of the gloriousest Courts of the World.

Now let us return to Leyden by the Wood, on the right hand of which is a very fair Castle, belong∣ing

to the Princess Dowager. From this Wood to a league within the Town 'tis all Sand, full of Rabbits and Coneys. And here we may admire the Hollanders industry, that diggs and carries away the Sand, and makes a good arable ground.

From Leyden to Werden there are six leagues, either upon a Bank, or by the Channell; and beyond the Sluce of Goude are Suamerdam and Bodegrave, the latter of which is one of the fairest Villages in all Holland.

CHAP. XVII.

Of Voerden.

THis Town was built in 1374. by the Bishop of Utrect, to keep the Citi∣zens of Utrect in awe. It has been the occasion of great Wars between these two Provinces; but at last by the conspiracy of Heman de Voerden with de Velsen, it was reduced under the Hollanders obedience. The Rhene goes through it, and in its Fauxbourgs are made great quantities of Bricks. There is a Castle formerly held impregnable, in which the Admiral of Arragon was kept prisoner a great while, after the Battle of Flanders.

From Voerden we will turn our backs to Utrect, and our side to Montfort, and come to Undevater, and so follow the borders of the Province. This Town is upon Issel, within a league of Montfort; it is but little, but very pleasant. In 1579. it was taken and

sackt by the Spaniards, to revenge the affront they had receiv'd before Ley∣den, and in payment of their arrears. From this place you may go to Goude, and by the Meuse to Rotterdam. All along the said River are nothing but fair Villages, and pleasant Countrey-Houses.

Now let us cross the River Lec, and see the Towns lying upon it. It is pro∣perly one of the Branches of the Rhene, upon which are situated Aulembourg, and Viane, a small Town which belongs to the Brederodes, and is not reckon'd among the Towns of Holland. In it e∣very thing is cheap, for there is little or no Excise payed, and all those that do break in Holland, may sowe themselves here, and have a protection from the Lord of the place.

There is in it a fair Castle, in which ordinarily Monsieur Brederode re∣sides.

Four leagues lower is Schoon-hoven, which takes its name from the beauty of its Gardens; for Schoon signifies fair, and Hoff Garden, or Court. Some by reason of its Harbour have call'd it Schoon-haff.

The River is here very broad, and there are many Salmon and other deli∣cate Fish taken in it. The Town is small, but very pleasant, and there are fine Walks about it.

An Earl of Holland caus'd a Bank to be raised from Ameron to the said Town, in favour of the Bishop O∣tho.

In the year 1424. the said Town was deliver'd to Jaequeline, Countess of Holland, by the treachery of the Ci∣tizens; but the Castle held out, though there were but a Garrison of 50. stout men in it: at last they yeelded, and had all quarter and their liberties, ex∣cept one Albert Beiling, whose vertue and loyalty is as much to be prized, as that of the Roman Regulus; for having obtain'd leave to go home and settle his Estate, and having given no other security than his Parole, he fail'd not upon the day appointed to come and render himself prisoner.

Between L••c and Vahal there is ano∣ther little River, call'd Lingue, upon which are three small Towns, which the curious will do well to see before they come to Gorcum.

Asperen, a small Town upon the same River, which was anciently a Fee of the noble House of Arkel, as well as Heu∣kelom. There was a very ancient Castle.

Leerdam is in the middle of these two little Towns, and belonging to the same Family: it is almost square, and there are many Gardens. Frederick, Count Egmond, having married Mary, Daughter to the Lord of Arkel, was the first Earl of Leerdam. It belongs now to the Prince of Orange, for the Prince Philip, great Uncle to this Prince, had it from his Mother, Anna of Egmond.

Gorcum is now one of the strongest places of the Low-Countreys, being re∣gularly fortified according to the mo∣dern way. It is upon the Meuse, a∣bout five leagues above Dort. It was first built by a Gentleman of the House of Arkel, who had a fair Castle here. The River Lingue runs through it, and brings in all Commodities to the Inha∣bitants. This Town is one of the Keys of Holland, together with the strong Castle of Louvestein, situated a little

higher, upon the confluence of the two Rivers. It is famous for having been the prison of many Arminian Ministers; and amongst others of that learn'd Hu∣go Grotius, who was since Embassador from the King of Sweden to the King of France. He got out by a very witty stratagem, fled into Brabant, and from thence pass'd into France. He endea∣vour'd at last to reconcile all mindes about Religion; but the Politicians on one side, and the Churchmen on the other, frustrated his good intentions. He died at Rostoc in Ruckelbnrg, com∣ing home, and his body lies buried at Delft.

To go to Heusden you must go out of the limits, and pass by Bommel, though it be not altogether necessary, for there is another way. Bommel is an Island which defends Holland, and is about two leagues from Bosleduke, most admirably fortified.

But let us come to Heusden, which is below Bosleduke, upon the Meuse, and let us consider it, not for the contro∣versie, that is, whether it be of the Dutchy of Brabant, or of Holland; but

for its admirable Fortifications. It is environ'd with seven or eight Bastions, and some half Moons. This with the breadth of the River secures it from all danger, and Holland from all fear on that side.

There is likewise a Fort in the Island of Hemert, upon the Vahal, which de∣fends Heusden; a thing to be seen be∣fore you go down the River, and fol∣low the borders of Brabant, upon which lies Voroum, a small Town, with four Bastions between Louvestein and Gorcum.

This little place, with the Lordship of Altena, was sold to the States for 10000. pound, and is now a Rampart to the whole Province. All the Towns fronting upon Gueldres are very well fortified, and in a better Air than the Towns of Holland, as having better Waters; but they are much inferior in beauty, neatness, and riches.

Iselstein is a small Town situated up∣on Yssel, which they of Utrect have of∣ten laid claim to, and there has been War between the Bishops of Utrect and the Earls of Holland for it; the place

standing in a fruitfull pleasant Soyl. It is rather long than square, and adorn'd with fine Gardens; the Prince of O∣range is Lord of it. Now let us fol∣low the Frontier of Brabant, to the West.

As soon as you come out of the Lordship of Altena, you meet with the strong Town of Gertrudenbergue, divi∣ded from Holland by a great Lake that the Rhene and the Meuse make before Dort. It is almost a half Moon, of which two thirds are bath'd with the Water of the Lake, and has excellent Bastions. Besides, there are Forts with Sluces, which can drown the rest of the ground which lies low.

In the year 1321. the Castle was built; and a 100. year after both the Town and the Cathedrall Church were both burnt down by those of Dort, who took it after a long siege. It belongs now to the Prince of Orange, having often chang'd Masters by the chance of War. There is taken before it great quantities of Salmon; but I have heard a Citizen relate, that in the time of the War their Fishing fail'd, because of the

great noise of the Canonadoes, that frighted all the Fish away.

To go from Gertrudenbergue by land to Clundert, you must leave Breda on the left hand, and pass by Sevenberg, a Lordship which depends on Brabant. Clundert has eight Bastions, and some Ravelins, and was first wall'd by Prince William the first, whose it was, and since fortified. It has a fine Church, and good Bells.

Willemstradt is hard by, a Town which bears the name of its founder. It has seven Bastions, a double Ditch, and a fair Harbour. It has Brabant on the South, and Zeeland on the North, which seems to communicate to it something of the courseness of its Air; for here are bred Feavers, very hard to be cur'd, insomuch as those that have them seem as if they were bewitched. The Citizens of Leyden can testifie it to their cost; for many of them were in Garrison there in the War time, and when they came home, some died, some lingred a great while, and in all, I know not above three that scap'd be∣ing very sick.

I have spoke of these little Towns, only for their Fortifications; let us now see the Islands that are over a∣gainst Zeeland. The first is Overslac; you must land at Ol••rens Plact, a Vil∣lage where the Fleet of Shallops was to have landed, 1631. In the said Island which is very fertile in Corn, is a fair Village, call'd Sommerdi••ke, the Lord of which was Governor of Nimme∣gue.

At the end of this Island is another, in which is the Town of Gouree, the Harbour of which is now stop'd up with Sand.

Between Gouree and Helwetsluys there is a great depth of Water, where the greatest Ships may ride. Now we are come to the Island of Vorne, the chief∣est place of which is the Briel, then Geervliet, where there was a Colledge of Canons; and Huervliet, a fine place belonging to Mr. de Kerchove, high Huntsman of Holland. The rest of this Island which ends at Dort, is call'd Beyerland, and the other part Stryac, where there are many rich Villages, the best of which is Isselmond.

CHAP. XVIII.

Of the Towns that are in Goylant, near the South-Sea.

WE have seen the borders of this Province towards Gueldres, Utrect, Brabant, and Zeland; we have now a journey to take South-East, be∣fore we go directly North, to see three small Towns. From Amsterdam you go by Sea to Naerden, the chief Town of Goylant. It has been destroyed, and then built up again; the old foun∣dations are yet to be seen in the South-Sea, when a certain Winde blows and drives out the Sea.

The Citizens of this place acquir'd great reputation, by taking that Tray∣tor Gerrard de Velsen, who was carry∣ing the Earl Florent prisoner into England.

In the year 1355. the second Town

was built, and adorn'd with priviledges by the Duke William of Bavaria.

In 1481. they of Utrect having given the Hollanders a great overthrow, sur∣prized the Town of Naerden by an in∣genious stratagem; for they dress'd a good number of young Souldiers like Countreywomen going to Market, who being let in, seized a Gate of the Town, and gave entrance to the ene∣mies: the Citizens redeem'd them∣selves from fire and sword by a great summe of money. But a little after they were reveng'd; for falling upon the Bishoprick, they kill'd 1500. of their enemies upon the spot, and in memory of that advantage, built a high Tower, with this Inscription, Utrect hold thy peace.

In 1486. the said Town was almost all burnt down; and this misfortune seem'd to be a fore-runner of that which befell them about a 100. years after: for Frederick, Son to the Duke of Al∣va, having taken Zutpheen, fell upon Naerden. The Citizens not expecting so sudden an alarm, were not so provi∣dent as to send Embassadors to mediate

for them; but seeing the Army at their Gates, surrender'd their Town into the victors hands, and trusted to his discre∣tion and mercy: but he participating much of the cruell humor of his Father, commanded all the Inhabitants to be as∣sembled in the publick Market-place, and there sent them Monks to confess them, and pronounce to them their sentence of death. The poor creatures who thought to have heard their par∣don proclaim'd, were immediately set upon by some Regiments, and cruelly slaughter'd. This barbarous execution brought so great an odium upon the Spaniards, that it made the people of Leyden rather resolve to starve, than yeeld to the mercy of so cruell a Nation. That which is most remarkable too, is, that they were most of them Catholicks; and I think it is from thence that comes that deriding Proverb in Holland, Art thou a Catholick, that is good for thy soul.

Mude is hard by Naerden, upon the River Veckt, and at the mouth of the South-Sea. It is a little Town, which has a very ancient Castle, in which was

kept prisoner the Count Florent.

Hard by is Wesop upon the same Ri∣ver, famous for its good Beer, where∣of much is brought to Leyden, where it is call'd, for its excellency, the Flem∣mings Physick.

All the Countrey from Amsterdam, taking by Voerden to Leyden, shut in by the Sea of Harlem, is very low; it is all Meadow, or Turf-ground; as also between Leyden, Goude, and Rotter∣dam, there are digg'd great quantities of Turfs: nay the Earth is so cut in ma∣ny places, that it is inaccessible other∣wise than by Boat, which is a Subject of great admiration to Strangers.

The Boats that go in the night-time from Leyderdorp to Amsterdam, pass through the Lake of Brassmermeere, and stay about two hours at a Village call'd Bilderdam; then in the morning they arrive at another call'd Ouderkerk, which is a league from Amsterdam. There are Waggons that go by land; and it is particularly the Earth of this Countrey that is observ'd to tremble and quake. When it has rain'd, the wayes are all drown'd, and become like a Marsh.

CHAP. XIX.

Of the Lakes and Rivers.

OF all the Rivers that come from Germany and Water-Holland, the chiefest is the Rhene, which divides into two branches; one retains the name of Rhene, and the other is call'd Vahal, and that receives the Meuse, which comes from Lorrain, and goes through the Town of Leege. These Rivers meet all before Gorcum, and flow gen∣tly into the Sea, near Dort and Rotter∣dam, making all the Islands we have spoke of. The Countrey lying low, there are abundance of Lakes, into which enter a great many Channels, made by Art. The greatest of these Lakes is Harlem-Lake, which begins to extend it self between Leyden and the Village of Kague, which stand in at Island at the mouth of the said Lake, into which the Boats enter here. Those Boats that go to Harlem, keep

on the left hand, and they that go to Amsterdam, on the right, and pass by Alsemeer. This Lake is very broad, but not deep; between Harlem and Amsterdam it grows narrower, and is call'd Sprin••smeere: there is a Dike or Bank with prodigious Sluces, which are opened according as the Wind ••its, to let out some of the Water into the River Ye. Here the Harlem Boats stay, and the Passengers land, and see a fair House, built by the noble Col∣ledge of the Heemrades.

On Amsterdam-side it grows still nar∣rower, till you come to Overtom, a fair Village of the Jurisdiction of Har∣lem, which keeps the passage shut by a Dike, over which the Boats which go from Leyden to Amsterdam must pass, by the means of certain wooden Row∣lers, and other Instruments. This ob∣stacle is to force the great Boats full of Merchandizes, to go by Harlem, to the profit of the said Town.

This Lake before the Wars was not half so big; and I have heard old men say, that from their remembrance it had encreased the compass of above

four miles. Every year it eats away some of the Land that borders upon it, insomuch that the neighbouring Cor∣porations have often met to consult a∣bout the drayning of it, but as yet without effect. It would require a∣bove 500. miles, and the cost would a∣mount to above 200000. pound; but the bottome being partly Veenes, and partly good Land, would sell well, and defray a good part of the ex∣pence.

This Lake is very full of Fish, and breeds Eeles of a prodigious bigness, as all ••••imy Waters do. But I shall not speak any more of this nor other Lakes, nor of the holes which the Countrey people make every day by digging up Turfs, which if at last by some rupture they should meet, would go near to drown all this lower Region, and swal∣low up these fine Meadows. Now let us go to North-Holland.

CHAP. XX.

North-Holland, commonly call'd West-Frieze.

THis part is so call'd, because it has Holland on the South, and Friezeland on the East, from which it is divided by the South-Sea, which some Authors affirm to have been formerly so narrow, that it might have been pass'd over with a plank. This Coun∣trey is likewise call'd Waterland, by rea∣son of the many Lakes that it abounds with; some of them have been drayn'd, viz. Beemster, Ziip, and Schermer, which are now rich grounds, where the chief Citizens of Amsterdam have Houses and Gardens. Every where here there are Dikes; that of Mede••∣bliike is made of a certain matter which the Sea casts up, this Element prepa∣ring thus a bridle to its own fury.

This Countrey has on the North the Ocean and the Texel, and on the South

the River Ye, and is joyn'd to the South-part of Holland, by a small neck of Land on Harlem-side.

This people drives a great Trade, by means of the Water they are environ'd with, which at the same time does so fortifie them, as to secure them from all acts of hostility. They keep their old fashions and customes; and yet they are not so simple as they appear, but are indeed very sincere, and more to be believ'd upon their simple affirma∣tive, than other Nations upon their oaths and blasphemies. The Women are equally chaste and fair, and often a young man shall sit a whole night by his Mistress, and never hold any dis∣course any wayes offensive to her ho∣nour. They have most of them red Hair, and their locks guilded upon their fore-heads. They wear not Handker∣chiefs, but a velvet Whisk, with a gol∣den Hook and Clasp. That which I think very undecent, is, that they wear their Petticoats so short, that they scarce come below their knees. The men wear plain Bands, square Beards, have a grave behaviour, and are of a

strong complexion, and tall stature. All their business is Commerce, which they have with all the Northern Countries; and particularly Herrings are their great Commodity.

Between Harlem and Alcmaer there is a pleasant Village, whither anciently people did use to go in pilgrimage. It is situated upon the Sea of Wiie; the bank that begins there is call'd St. A∣gaths bank; and the other which goes to Sardam is call'd Assendelftdike. At Sardam are continually built great Ships for the Indies. But let us take our way to Alcmaer.

CHAP. XXI.

Of Alcmaer and Medenbliic.

ALcmaer is not only one of the fi∣nest Towns of Holland, but also of all the Low-Countries, for the beau∣tiousness of its Buildings, and the neat∣ness of its Streets. The Wars that it maintain'd against the Friezelanders, bear witness of its antiquity.

It is very rich, and has a great Trade. Many of its Inhabitants live pleasantly, having very fine Gardens, and a fine Countrey.

In 1328. it was burnt; the Frieze∣landers have often besieged it: and in the year 1517. it was taken and plun∣der'd for eight dayes by those of Guel∣dres.

The Earl Florent the fifth made a Dike to the very extremities of the Countrey, to hinder the Friezelanders incursions. There are fair marks to shoot at, for the exercise and diversion of the Citi∣zens;

and next to Leyden, it has the reputation of being the cleanliest Town in Holland. The Spaniards after the ta∣king of Harlem laid siege to it, but in wain; they were forced to quit the Town, partly by reason of the ill Airs and partly because of the stout resist, ance made by the Townsmen. Thi Town is near the Schermer, the greatest Lake of this Septentrionall part.

At some leagues from Alcmaer upon the North-Sea-side, is the Hontbos, where there are monstrous Dikes, made in a most singular manner, to re∣sist the fury of the Ocean, which here does most desperately threaten the ru∣ine of all Holland. Therefore there is a double bank, that so in case one should break, the other might give the people time to repair the first. From thence you may go to the Texel, or take your way to Seay n by the Ziipe.

Seayen is a great Village, situated in a fat Countrey, where Land is as dear again as in any part of Holland. There has been Trees, the Fruits of which have been sold for 10. pound in one

year. It has a very large Market∣place. The Lords of Seayen are de∣scended from the House of Bavaria. It is the mid-way between Alcmaer and Medenbliick.

Medenbliick is an ancient Town; all Authors agree that it was formerly the Metropolis, before Horne and Enchusen were built. Some derive its name from the River Medem••lack, of which there remains no marks; neither is it proba∣ble that the famous Prince R••••lbold did live here.

It was taken by the Kenemars in the year 1426. and in 1514. they of Guel∣dres burnt it down to the ground. It has high and strong Dikes to keep out the South-Sea, for the Land lies a great deal lower than the Water. When there is a great storm, and that the Sea beats with that violence, that it does threaten the utter ruine of all that oppo∣ses it, the Inhabitants clap Sails all along between the Dike and the Water, and so hinder it from piercing into the body of the bank: a pretty invention, and to which they owe the safety of their whole Countrey. There is an old

Castle which some suspect to have been the Palace of the Princes of Friezeland. Here live most of your Wood-Mer∣chants, that drive a great Trade to Norway, and in the North. Let us follow the Sea-side, and come to En∣chusen.

CHAP. XXII.

Of Enchusen.

THis Town is environ'd on three parts by the Sea. It is like a half-Moon, and makes a point or neck of Land, which advances into the Zuyder∣zee. It is said that in 1394. Albert, Earl of Holland, set sayl from hence with a Fleet of 300. Boats, to transport his Army into Friezeland; an argument that then it was a famous Port. 'Tis true, that as time changes all things, so has it done this Harbour; for now the Sands that are got into the mouth of it, do much hinder the entrance of great Ships; yet are there often built here

great Ships for the Indies, and great Fleets do sayl from hence to the Baltic Seas.

It was not yet wall'd when it was burnt by John of Arkel, and Nicholas Putene in 1279. In 1426. it was as∣saulted by the Kenemars; and the same year, some Souldiers of the Countess Jacqueline, coming in upon a sudden, surprized about a 100. of the principall Citizens at dinner, and cut off all their Heads; a barbarous action, which does come near the cruelty of our Age.

In 1514. a part of the Rampart, and many Houses, were destroyed by an Inundation.

1537. the Gueldreses having de∣nounc'd War to Holland, had like to have surpriz'd the said Town; but the Water being low, they fail'd of their design.

This was the first Town that revolted from the Spaniards in North-Holland. In the year 1591. the Town was en∣larged, and it now drives a great Trade in Her••ngs and Salt-Fish. It has strong Dikes, and it needs them, being built

upon the Sea; which is the reason why it has no good Water to drink, the Countrey lying so low. By the complaints of its Inhabitants we perceive that it decayes in Trade, and has formerly had a greater Com∣merce, which appears by many empty Houses.

There is a very good Alms-house; and the Steeple is considerable for its height, being built in so moorish a soft ground. These three Towns, Enchu∣sen, Horne, and Medenbliick, have e∣qually, but successively, the priviledge of coyning Money, each for the space of seven years, and then they begin again. Horne now calls upon us to ad∣mire its beauty and Trade, with the con∣venience of its Harbour.

CHAP. XXIII.

Of Horn, and the small Towns of North-Holland.

THis Town is the second of North-Holland. It is built upon the South-Sea, and has the best Harbour of all that Coast. There was in this Town a famous Faction of the Kenne∣mars; but they were routed by the Ci∣tizens after a long combate. They took likewise the Fleet of the Osserlins, by the help of those of Enchuse, and so ended that troublesome War in 1441.

In 1557. the Dikes being broke, so much Water got into the Town, as had like to have drowned it; but by the in∣dustry of the Inhabitants, the banks were soon repaired again.

There is but a little arm of the Sea to be pass'd to come to Edam, two leagues from Horne. It is a small Town, built triangular-wise upon the River of Ye,

in the fattest part of Holland. Here is made the best Holland Cheese with red Rinde, so much sought after by all Na∣tions; and indeed it yeelds not to the Parmesan.

In the year 1430. we finde in our Annals, that the D••kes being broke, and having overflowed the Meadows, some Maids of Edam were in a Boat, going to milk the Cowes at Purmerend, and it being low Water, they perceived a Sea-Nymph in the Mud; they were at first frighted, but at last taking cou∣rage, drew nearer, got her into their Boat, and brought her to Edam, where she was washed and cloathed; she did eat our diet, and had learn'd to spin; but still her instinct did carry her to her naturall Element, the Water, in which she did much delight: they could never teach her to speak. She was transport∣ed to Harlem, where she liv'd many years. A certain Author sayes, that they had infus'd some knowledge of God into her, and that she did use to bowe before the Crucifix.

Monickendam is hard by Edam, up∣on the River Monic, which signifies

Monk, and it has for Arms, a Monk. The Town is very little, and situated upon the Sea-side. In 1426. it was taken by the Kenemars. It has been twice burnt down all, except the Church, and the Carmelites Mona∣stery.

Purmerend was wall'd in the Wars, 1573. There is a C〈…〉〈…〉e which did be∣long to the House of ••gmond; but it has been bought by the States in 1590.

North-Holland is almost quite envi∣ron'd with Water, and joyn'd to the rest of Holland by a neck of Land, from Bevervic to Vic, about a league broad. This small Province which is not in all above 20. leagues in compass, deserves that Strangers should take the pains to come to it, if it be but to see those prodigious Dikes and Banks, which preserve the Countrey from an infallible Inundation.

There are three or four little Islands in the South-Sea, besides the Texel, the Ulic, and some others, that are to∣wards Friezeland, and do break the first fury of the North-Sea. But we will

leave them, to return to Leyden by the Honsbos; and having once again ad∣mir'd the Dikes, go afoot by that lovely sandy shore, which is from the Hons∣bos to Beeve, a sandy mountain at the mouth of the Meuse, for the space of 24. leagues. It is the finest way in the world; for on one side are the high sandy Hills, and on the other the Sea, which is not deep near the sh••re; inso∣much that in calm Weather one may go in a great way without being ••ut to swim: and it is upon this s〈…〉〈…〉re that most Ships are forced to run, when they cannot in a storm get out to Sea; par∣ticularly in Winter, when the nights are dark and long.

When a Ship is thus cast away, and some body scapes, the Goods aboard here are preserv'd for the owners; but if all be drown'd, then what the Sea casts up belongs to the Countrey. It happens often likewise that after a great storm, a sort of Whales call'd by the In∣habitants, Potwisch, are found sticking upon these Sands; these likewise be∣long to the County: and I saw one that was sold for 50. pounds; they make

Oyl of the Flesh, and use the Bones for other uses. The Sea likewise does cast up great quantities of Cockle shells, which are gather'd to make a sort of Quicklime, much whiter than that of France, but not so good to make Mor∣ter with. Sometimes there are some very fine sorts of Shells, but seldome; for those which are kept as rarities, come most from the Indies.

You may see in your way Egmond, a Village, from which came the noble Family of Egmond. All these sandy Hills, from the Honsbos to Beer, are full of Rabbits, which you may see in thousands; it is forbidden to kill or take any of them, under a certain Fine; and to hunt them, you must have leave from the high Huntsman of Holland, or be one of the Nobles of the Countrey. There you may see Eagles, that endea∣vour to prey upon the Connies.

The Peasants hard by have a pretty way of catching them undiscover'd, which is, that in Winter the poor Beasts finding no green thing upon the ground to eat, all being cover'd with Snow, draw near the Houses, in most of which

there is a little hole that goes into the Cellar, in which are green Cabbage∣leaves; the Rabbits emboldened by hunger, creep in by a board set there on purpose, and no sooner are they entred, but the Peasant pulls away the board, and the Rabbit falls into the Cellar. But the Peasant does not brag of his good fortune, nor invite his Neighbours to the good cheer.

These Du••es, or sandy Mountains, are full of physicall Herbs, which the Students of Leyden do much seek after, particularly in the Spring-time, in the company of their Professors; and such Plants as cannot endure the cold, are transplanted into a Gallery which looks to the South, in which are three Stoves, for their conservation all Winter long. This Academy has also another Galle∣ry, in which are many curiosities, as Pagans Idols, Indian Serpents skins, little Chips, and Cloths and Shooes of the Indians. The Gardener gives to the curious a little Paper, in which is contain'd the explication of all these; and the Book-binders sell a little Book, in which are all the names of the Plants

that are in the said Garden.

This Academy was formerly a Nun∣nery, out of which the Nuns being driven by the great revolution of Eu∣rope for Religion, had each of them a small Prebendary for their life assign∣ed to them; and I remember two that did use to come from Boyslednke to Ley∣den, to receive their Sallary.

In the Divinity-School are kept all publick acts, and all Degrees are taken. They that take them publickly are ho∣nour'd with the Magistrates Presents, who ordinarily send them in some Pre∣sents of Wine, after the custome of Germany; then they make a Feast to the Professors, and are very merry. They that cannot afford to be at so much charge, are receiv'd privately, and under the Chimney, as the Proverb sayes. The Commencements are ordinarily in Summer, about the Dog-dayes.

Upon the said Academy is built a high Tower, on purpose for Astronomers to make observations. There are like∣wise many rare Instruments of a new invention, serving to the same end; here being excellent Professors in

all the parts of the Mathematicks.

The Princes House is upon the Rappe••bourg, and has a fine square Court, with a Garden. It was a re∣ligious House for Women, who 'tis said had purchased the place the House stands on with spinning. The lower part of the Church is a magazine for Ammunition, and the upper a Store-house for Corn. This I have added, as omitted in the first De∣scription of Leyden, with which I have perfected my intended Account of the Cities, Towns, and Villages in Holland. Now I will say some∣thing of their Religion.

CHAP. XXIV.

Of the different Religions in Holland.

I Will not here undertake to dispute, which is the best of all those Religi∣ons that are here tolerated, knowing that it is too ticklish a matter to be handled, without giving offence to some body. I shall only relate barely, how many sorts of Religions there are within the limits of the United Pro∣vinces.

They being at their first revolt oppo∣site to Spain in all things: resolv'd to give as much liberty as that King would deny, and to tolerate all Religions, because he would suffer but one. In order to this, the State thriving in their Wars, took upon them to drive out the Priests, Monks, and Nuns, as so many Emissaries of Rome, and stiff maintainers of one only Religion. The chief Mo∣del and Reformation was made accor∣ding

to the Churches of Geneva, and the high Palatinate; and to this day they that pretend to any Charge or Of∣fice, must be of this Religion, if they desire to be admitted.

They that follow the Doctrine of Martin Luther, have all freedome in Holland, and liberty to build Churches among the Houses, to distinguish them from the other Reform'd. The Ana∣baptists have likewise theirs, and are divided into divers Sects. They that have the great Assembly are call'd Drec Wagens. And I will say this to their praise, that in their Meetings they ex∣pound Scripture, without making any invectives, or railing upon any body else.

In the beginning those of the Re∣form'd Religion in Holland, were call'd Geux, or Beggars; as in France, Hu∣guenots, a name which the vulgar yet retain with joy, bragging, that they were neither Papists nor Martinists, but Geux. This was the occasion of their being thus nam'd: In the begin∣ning of the troubles, 500. Gentlemen being come to Brussels, to present a Pe∣tition

to the Princess of Parma, then Governant, came of a sudden into her Palace; she being at the Window, talking with the Earl of Varlemont, was frighted with so sudden and so great an appearance, and asked him if he knew what it mean'd; who answered, Madam, Do not trouble your self, they are but Beggars; Ce ne sout que des Geux. This being told these Gentle∣men at Supper, they all agreed to dress themselves in Beggars Cloaks, and take wooden Dishes in their Hands, with this Motto, We are all the Kings faithfull Servants, even to Beggary.

We must not forget the Arminians, who have made a Schisme among the Reform'd about Predestination. The Gomarists or Counter-Remonstrants opposed the said Articles of Predestina∣tion; they were thus nam'd from their two Heads, who were both professors of Divinity in Leyden, Arminius and Gomarius. Their Division had such in∣fluence among the people, that the Towns did already beg••n to take in Gar∣••••sons, to maintain each their opinion by force. Prince Maurice by the Or∣der

of the States applied a remedy to these Disorders. Barnevelt was taken and beheaded, some Magistrates of Towns deposed, and many Ministers of the Arminians imprisoned, their Do∣ctrine being condemn'd by the Synod of Dort.

But the Arminians have never been at quiet, till they have obtain'd a free exercise through most Towns of Hol∣land, as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and the Hague it self, but not at Harlem, nor Leyden; in the last of which places, they have often met in the open Streets, sung their Psalms, and preached, but have still been disturbed by the Magi∣strate. At last seeing they could not gain a Church in the Town, they have been glad to obtain leave to meet at Warmont, a Village hard by it, which the Lord of the place has willingly grant∣ed, for the benefit that arises to his Village by it.

The Jews are publickly tolerated, and have their Synagogues in Amster∣dam.

The Catholicks are the only excluded from this liberty, though they be in

great numbers, and most of them natu∣rall Hollanders, whose Ancestors have contributed both their bloods and mo∣ney, to the driving out of the Spani∣ards; but all that is forgotten, and they enjoy nothing but a liberty of consci∣ence, in which they rest quietly. Ma∣ny Politicians of our Age have thought, that the reason why they are thus kept under, was, because the King of Spain, the profess'd enemy of the States, was of their Religion; and that if peace were once concluded, there would be more indulgence shewed. But I think our Politicians mistaken in their conje∣cture, and do rather look upon the Hollanders, as people that have imita∣ted the Romans; who having once dri∣ven out the Tarquins, and tasted the sweetness of liberty, did not spare Col∣latin himself, who had been one of the great opposers of tyranny, not because there was cause, but because he was of the Royall Race. So I do not dispute, whether the Papists have given Subject to distrust them; but I say, they have given occasion to fear them, because they are of our enemies Religion. 'Tis

true, that in some Towns, where the memory of the actions perform'd by the Catholicks, in order to the publick li∣berty, is yet preserv'd, they have the freedome of meeting in private Houses. The Countrey people do persevere very constantly in the said Religion, and are not so constrained as in the Towns, though they are derided by all Sects whatsoever.

Their Ceremonies in Burying are the same all over Holland; and since '••is a Religious Worship, we shall here de∣scribe the form of it.

The Catholicks and Lutherans suffer not their Dead to be buried any where, but in Churches and Church-yards. The Reform'd are not so scrupulous, and say, that one Earth is not holier than another, neither do they use much Ceremony.

As soon as the person is dead, the Neighbours sewe the Body up in a Winding-sheet, and they are treated with a Collation, and a Cup of Sack; then they make a Note of the names of those they intend to invite. The day appointed being come, they meet a∣bout

Two of the Clock in the After∣noon, in the House of the deceased; there their names are call'd over, and they go out two by two, the Kindred next the Body, and the Friends after them, every one according to his qua∣lity. The Body being buried, they come back to the House, where he that goes first invites the company in; then they are presented with Wine, and e∣very one drinks as much as he pleases, and goes away when he thinks fit. The richer sort are buried in the Church, and the company has Rhenish Wine given them. The poor give Beer.

The young Men and Maids are carri∣ed by young people. The Body is all cover'd with Flowers, and the Bearers have a branch of Laurell or Rosemary in their Hand. If it be a person of qua∣lity, all the Bearers are presented with a summe of Money, which they go and spend in a treating-House. There is al∣wayes a certain summe to be given to the purse of the Neighbourhood. And such as have not a burying place in the Church, must pay very dear for it, if

they intend to have one. They for whom the biggest Bell rings, pay ••0. shillings at least. The Papists are very observant of that Ceremony; but the Reform'd laugh at it, as a piece of Su∣perstition, and instituted for the Churches profit. However these Bu∣ryings without Prayers or Ceremony, cost as much as the Obsequies of the Catholicks in France. After the bury∣ing of a Professor, there is a Speech made in honour of him. If the Body be not in the Church at half an hour past two, there is a Fine of 20. shillings to be payed; if it be not there till after three, then there is the double due.

Some are so ill-bred, as to drink themselves drunk at these Buryings; and when they go home in their long Cloaks, you shall finde them in the mire; but the people of quality come not to that extremity, but after two or three Glasses of Wine, return qui∣etly.

Besides all these Religions, there is a certain Assembly held at Rinsbourg, ten or twelve times a year, where every

one that will has the liberty of ma∣king an Exhortation; it is call'd the Assembly of the free-minded. There are many others that sit at home reading the Scripture, and never come to any Church, ex∣cept it be out of curiosity. The Arianisme has those that pro∣fess it. In a word, any body may follow his own opinion, but not profess it with a publick Wor∣ship. There are Atheists enough too.

CHAP. XXV.

Of the Nobility.

HOlland has for Arms a — with this Motto, for Liberty. It is ob∣servable, that almost all the Provinces of the Low-Countries have a Lion for their Arms; which made Charles their Duke desirous to make one Kingdome of them, call'd the Kingdome of the Li∣on; but while he was adding to it Lor∣rain and the Swizzers, he died, and left the title of Duke only to his Succes∣sors.

The Emperor Charl••s the fifth had the same design; but he met with so much opposition in the priviledges, and the diversity of humours and tongues in the different Provinces, that he was fain to give over the design of it; he being besides busied with continuall Wars.

There are also many Gentlemen in

the Low-Countries, that bear a Lion in their Coat. But since my design is on∣ly to speak of Holland, I shall mention no other than the Nobility of that Pro∣vince, as well to publish their antiquity, as to stop the mouthes of some Stran∣gers, who either by an absurd igno∣rance, or maliciously, do publish that there are no Gentlemen in Holland. 'Tis true, that the length of the Civill Wars has been the death of many of that couragious Nobility, who seeking Honour have died in the bed of it, and so some Families of ancient extract are quite extinguish'd. But there are yet many remaining, who may contend for antiquity and splendor with most Fami∣lies in Europe.

'Tis commonly said, that the Italian Nobility do not scruple to trade. The French indeed are nicer, and think it a degenerating from their birth; yet do they not make any difficulty of marry∣ing a Citizens Daughter, if she be rich, and can by her means repair the lustre of their decayed Nobility.

But the Germans do not only abhor Traffick, but think it a greater baseness,

to mingle their blood with one meanly born.

The Hollanders seem to be in the middle between these extreams.

For first, The Dutch Nobility does not trade. They love War, for the de∣fence of their Countrey; are not Du∣ellists, nor quarrelsome, like the French; love Learning, particularly the Mathematicks; live pleasantly in their Countrey-Houses; and may with∣out degenerating marry whom they please.

The Gentlemen in Holland have al∣wayes enjoyed great priviledges; for the ancient Earls did never undertake any thing without their advice, as it is now observ'd in Denmarke and Po∣land.

The three principall Families are the Brederodes, the Wassenaers, and the Egmonds; of whom the Proverb is,

The Noble Brederodes. The Ancient Wassenaers. The Rich Egmonds.

The Brederodes are descended from the Earls of Holland; and the Story is,

that Sitfrid, the youngest Son of Ar∣nold of Ghent, and Grandson to Didier, second Earl of Holland, being fallen under his Fathers indignation and ha∣tred, was afterwards pardon'd; and ••he Earl to shew his kindness and recon∣ciliation, caus'd Land to be measur'd out to him with larger Roods: thence he was call'd Brederode; and from him is descended this Family, by his eldest Son Didier; and from his younger, Simon, Lord of Teling, are descended the Lords of Toll and Lecke.

The Wassenaers fetch their origine from a Village between Leyden and the Hague; and their name is deriv'd from the right they had in former Ages to the Waters, Ponds, and Lakes, in Holland. They pretend to be descended from that famous Captain, Claudius Civilis, of whom Tacitus makes honourable men∣tion. They have been Burg-graves of Leyden, and are yet highly esteem'd. From them are descended the Duven∣vords, the Warmonts, the Bouchorts, the Polanes, the Matenesses, all the Flower of the Dutch Nobility.

They that represent the Nobility

of Holland in the States Generall, are these following; whereof some are dead:

John Wolfard, Lord of Brederode and Viane.

John de Wassenaer, Lord of Duven∣vord, &c.

Vesele de Boteselaer, Lord of Aspe∣ren, &c.

James of Wingarde, Lord of Ben∣thuise, Soctemeer, &c.

Albert de Scagen, Baron of Scagen, Harengbuisen, &c.

James of Wassenaer, and Duvenvord, Lord of Warmont.

Henry de Raphorst, Lord of Ra∣phorst, &c.

James de Mateness, Lord of Mate∣ness, Rivier, Opmeer, &c.

Francis Arsen, Knight, Lord of Sommersdiick.

Besides these, there are divers other Families, as those of Arquel, Kenem∣bourg, Haserson, Alquemade, Opdam, Gaudriaen, Sevenhuysen, Vanderlaen, Benthuse, Asmal, &c. who are all by Alphabeticall order, in the Book entitu∣led, The Theatre of the Towns and Coun∣ty

of Holland, by the Learned Monsieur Boxhorne; together with the noble actions of their Ancestors.

CHAP. XXVI.

Of Liberty.

THere is no Province in the World, where the Inhabitants enjoy more liberty, than in Holland. Nay, as soon as any Slave coming from a foreign Countrey, sets his foot upon the Dutch shore, he is free. The Gentlemen are Princes and Fathers of their Families. The Countrey people when they have payed their Rents, are as free as the Citizens. If a Gentleman abuse or kill any of them, he is in great danger of losing his life, if the crime deserve it. Here is no partiality; and let every one know, that the Laws are here in their force.

The Magistrates are bound to main∣tain the Citizens Priviledges, and pre∣serve them from all Oppression. The

Masters may not beat their Servants, nor the Mistresses their Maids. But above all, every one is Master at home; and it is a capitall offence to offer vio∣lence to a man in his own House.

One may travell freely through all Holland, by day and by night, with∣out fear of being rob'd. High-way men are never pardon'd; Theeves are sometimes, but not those among them that break into Houses, or steal Sheep in the Pasture-grounds.

No body is forced to stay here any longer than he thinks fit. Here is liber∣ty of Conscience, and no body is forc'd to go to the Protestant Churches. The liberty of speaking freely, even of Ma∣gistrates themselves, is too great; and that which else-where would be a crime, is here laughed at.

The German Students, I remember, were once about to set up a custome, which is in use in most of the German Universities, by which the new comers are very ill treated for the first year; but the Magistrates oppos'd it, and threatned all those that should go about to introduce such a slavery, in a free Countrey.

Here are never made any Rules a∣bout what people onght to wear; every one wears what he pleases. Nay any body may transport as much Gold and Silver as he pleases, and no body shall hinder him, as they do in England, and France. In a word, all that is reasona∣ble, is lawfull.

They that say that the Nobility are not respected in Holland, are very much mistaken. For those amongst them that do govern themselves with moderation, and are familiar with their Inferiors, are infinitely beloved; but the proud and haughty are despised and hated.

Here is the greatest Equality in the World. It is ordinary to hear a mean Fellow in a dispute with a Citizen, say, I am as much as you; if you be richer than I, 'tis well for you. But the wiser sort avoid such quarrels, as it is easie to do, by keeping a fit distance between them and the common people.

Certainly when I do reflect upon the miserable condition of some Christians in Europe; as of the Peasants in Lytua∣nia, and almost all over Poland, where

the Lords have the power of hang∣ing them, when they run away from their tyranny; in Bohemia, and some other places of Germa∣ny; in Denmarke, and Sweden, where the Gentlemen do ••ighly abuse the Commons; I cannot choose but cry out, O happy Hol∣land, that hast preserv'd that pre∣cious jewel of Liberty; preserve it well, for with its loss, goes that of thy happiness!

CHAP. XXVII.

Of some Voyages undertaken un∣der the Banner of Holland.

I Do not intend to speak here of the ordinary Trade that is driven by Shipping, to the Northern parts of the World; nor of that which is carried on in England, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, &c.

My design is to speak of those Voya∣ges undertaken within these threescore years to the Indies, which were under∣taken upon this occasion:

The King of Spain having seized up∣on, and confiscated some Ships belong∣ing to the Hollanders, that did trade in his Ports, which were then the Mart of Europe, for the East-India Merchandi∣zes, made some Merchants resolve to set out a Fleet of eight Sayl for the In∣dies; whereof four were to go the long way, and four others to go by the North, and endeavour to finde out a

passage to China, by the North-Sea; it being the shorter way to the Indies by half in half.

These four last set sayl from the Texel the fifth of June, 1594. and the eigh∣teenth they came to Kildus in Lapland; and some time after they discover'd the Island of Nova Zembla, between mountains of Ice.

In this journey they met no Pirates nor enemies, but great white fierce Bears, which would follow them upon the land, and in the Sea; as one parti∣cularly did, for leaping into the Sea, to follow their long Boat which they had ma••••d out, they shot him, and hurt him; but he nevertheless following still, they threw a Rope about his neck, thinking to carry him away alive after them to Austerdam; nevertheless this furious Beast had the force to leap with his two fore-feet upon the Boat, and so frighted the Seamen, that they were all ready to leap into the Sea, had not the Rope by good luck entangled it self about the Rudder; whereupon one run him through with a Pike, and kill'd him.

They met besides with a sort of great Fish, as big as Oxen, call'd Valres; their Head is like an Oxes, and they have two Teeth that come out like Boars Tushes.

At last seeing the season of the year far spent, they went back, and some dayes after met with the other Ships which had left them, and learn'd from them that they had been in the Tartari∣an Ocean, which they had found full of Whales. That they had landed, and discover'd a Cross upon a Mountain, near which they had found some Sacks of Meal, and something written upon the Cross in Russian Characters. At last they all arriv'd at Amsterdam in Sep∣tember, having been hindred by the Ice to go any further.

The chief of these was one William Barenson, who having made the recitall of their journey, there was a second Voyage resolv'd of, under the conduct of the said William; but they met with the same obstacles again, though it were in August. They met with a Shal∣lop laden with Barks of Trees, and Geese, and such other Merchandizes,

which waited for the Russian Fleet, which every year goes that way. They that were in the Bark did say, that within a few dayes the Sea would be so frozen, as that one might go over the Ice into Tartary. The Hollanders in∣vited them aboard, and presented them with Butter and Cheese, which they re∣fused, saying, it was fasting-day, but took some Herrings. Having left them, and seen the Countrey of the Samoctes, which they found to be a bar∣barous people, wearing Buff-skins, they steered their course to the States Island, a place which they found full of Hares, whereof they made provision. Some pass'd into the Continent, not far from the Island, and there a furious Bear kill'd two, and routed all the rest of the company, though twenty in number, and well arm'd with Pikes; at last with succour from the Ship, the Bear was kill'd. After which they set sayl for Holland, running much hazard in the Ice, but arriv'd without any o∣ther loss than of those two men.

The small success of this Voyage, could not discourage the undertakers

from venturing once more, under the conduct of the same William Barenson, to whose Ship James Heemskerke was ad∣ed, as Commissary. Two Ships set sayl the eighteenth of May, and met with the first Ice the fifth of June. They sayled up and down till the eigh∣teenth, without being able to meet with any passage. Wherefore one re∣turn'd into Holland; Barenson having steered to Nova Zembla, and endea∣vouring to leave it behinde him, was surprized by the Ice, and his Ship fro∣zen up. In this extremity, some ha∣ving landed, found abundance of Tim∣ber, about a league within the shore; with that they built a little House, which they cover'd with the Boards of their Ship, and had Wood enough left to make fire with. The Sun forsook them quite from the fourth of Novem∣ber, to the twenty fourth of January. Till the Sun forsook them, the Bears tormented them; but they had great relief by a sort of Foxes which they did use to catch and rost, and make warm Caps of their Skins. Their Beer and their Sack being frozen, they were fain

to break them with an Axe, and thaw them upon the fire; and when their Beer was spent, they were fain to melt the Snow, and drink it. At last the Sun came a∣gain, but with him the Bears, who did persecute so as they were not able to stir out; of them they kill'd many, and us'd their fat in stead of Oyl to burn in Lamps. Twelfth∣day being come, they resolv'd to be merry, and choose King and Queen, making their King, King of Nova Zembla, and the Islands a∣bout it. After some time they be∣gun to think of returning home, not in their Ship, for that they could not stir; but in their Boat, which with much ado they fitted up, and set sayl the fifteenth of June, among shoals of Ice, the Bears still following them upon the Ice, and into the Sea. The f〈…〉〈…〉h of July they came to the Cross Island, and the eighteenth they met with two Russian Boats, who gave them some refreshments, and at last they came to Amsterdam, in October,

1597. having lost Barenson, and four more.

CHAP. XXVIII.

Containing divers Curiosi∣ties.

IN the generall recitall of so many de∣licious Wonders, we have it may be omitted some, which we here adde by way of Supplement.

North-Holland had formerly a great Lake, near Purmerend, which has been drain'd with great pains and charges; it is now a most fertile spot of ground, about 20. mile in compass. The Cattle there is the biggest and fattest of all the Low-Countries.

It is confidently reported, that in the generall contribution of the Provin∣ces towards the War, Holland gives 57. in a 100. and Amsterdam alone gives above 27. of the 57. from whence may be inferr'd, what are the riches of that Town. The revenue of the said City

comes to above 4000. pound a day, according to the Treatise that has been Printed of it. This year, 1650. the Excise of Beer, Meat, and Corn, be∣ing farm'd out to them that bid most, was let at a 150000. pounds. Besides these, there is the Wine-Excise, the Taxes upon Houses, the eighth penny, and a thousand others.

There is a Square-house before the Town-house, where all things are weigh'd; it yeelds above 10000. pound a year.

There is a Glass-house, in which Chrystall-Glasses are made, not inferi∣or to Venice-Glasses; as also excellent Looking Glasses, which do attract all mens admiration.

The Rhetoricians or Po••ts-house de∣serves to be remembred, it being a lau∣dable custome, practis'd almost all over the Low Countries; which is, that peo∣ple given to Poetry have a House at Amsterdam, where they may represent Playes. They are distinguish'd into different Chambers, and make Aenig∣mes, which if unridled carry a prize with them for the Oedipus.

I shall end by the publick Library, to shew that our Merchants have not for∣got Learning, amongst the hurry and noise of their Trade.

It is hard by the South Church, and very well stored with all sorts of curi∣ous Books. The Epigram that is at the Door gives people warning how they are to behave themselves, when they are within.

There is added to it a Physick-Gar∣den, which encreases every day, by the care that the Magistrates take to fur∣nish it with rare Plants, at great char∣ges.

But let us leave Amsterdam, for fear we lose our selves in the confusion of so many remarkable things; and come and rest our selves at Leyden, the Gar∣den of Holland. Our nearest way will be by the Lake of Harlem, for with a fair Winde we may arrive in four hours; but if the Winde be contrary, we may go by Harlem in two hours by the Channell, and then take a Chariot for six and twenty pence, which will carry us in two hours more to Leyden. When the Winde is strong, and contra∣ry,

the way by the Sea of Harlem is troublesome, for it makes those sick that have often been upon the Sea with∣out inconvenience; and though in ma∣ny places it has not above six foot Wa∣ter, yet not long ago a Boat with Pas∣sengers was over-turn'd, and they drown'd.

Though there be many tempests and storms upon it, yet within this 25 years I do not remember any ill acci∣dent but this I have now mention'd; and that great misfortune which befell the unfortunate Queen of Bohemia, when she receiv'd the terrible news, how the King her Husband had sav'd himself with swimming, but that her eldest Son was drown'd in this unmerci∣full Element.

The King had left Harlem in Novem∣ber, 1629. towards the evening; the night proved very dark and tempestu∣ous, and the Lake much agitated by great Windes, when unfortunately in the obscurity, another Boat fell foul of his, and sunk it immediately. The poor young Prince was heard to cry out, Ab Sir, dear Father, pray save me!

but all in vain, for the darkness of the night hindring the distinguishing of ob∣jects, it was impossible to relieve him, and so he perish'd in the flower of his youth, to the unspeakable affliction of all that were acquainted with his forwardness in all Arts and Scien∣ces.

The two famous Cities of Holland are Leyden and Amsterdam; one is the Market of all foreign Commodities, and the other of Manufactures of all sorts. Neither is there any City that has so great a Revenue, next to Am∣sterdam, as Leyden, as it appears by the last years Excise only upon Beer, Corn, and Cattle, which came to 50000. pound.

There is wanting to Leyden a good Harbour to the Sea, without passing by other Towns, and it has been proposed to make one at Caetvic, which is but two leagues from it. Nay, the Mathe∣maticians and Engineers having been ad∣vised with, do say the thing is feasible; others say that it cannot be, and that ei∣ther the Sea would choak up the Har∣bour with Sand, or it may be if let in,

drown all the Countrey. To which it is answered, that the securest way would be to go by Wass••naer, and make the overture between two Mountains: but this design is now buried in oblivi∣on. Being one day in the company of a Mathematician at Catvic, he told me, that the Sea being calm is about half a foot higher than the Meadows about Leyden; so that if in the Spring-tides, or a storm, the Sea should make way through those Mountains of Sand, in∣fallibly the Countrey would be all lost.

The most dangerous Winde for Hol∣land is a North-West-Winde, towards the Equinox, with a storm; but God Almighty by his providence hinders these three so dangerous enemies, from assailing us all at one time.

Holland is so populous, that you can hardly go a stones cast without meeting with Houses or Villages.

The Hollanders Diversions are these: In Summer a Citizen shall hire a Boat for himself and his Family, to go and eat fresh-Water Fish. In Winter he shall hire a Sledge upon the Ice. They

are not given to gaming at Dice or Cards, but will play at Bowles and Ta∣bles. They are not quarrelsome, nor apt to strike, but will scold and call one another all to naught, before they come to blowes.

Towards Autumn, and in Winter, the Students pastime is to go and shoot at the wilde-Ducks and Geese; and if they shoot at the Countrey-peoples, as they will often out of roguery, then fol∣lows a scuffle, in which the weakest goes to the Wall.

Their industry is most admirable for inventing, and improving other peo∣ples inventions, witness Printing, and Telescope-Glasses. The Art of Navi∣gation is better understood here than in any place of the World: so is Fortifica∣tion, and all military Discipline; in so much that a Low-Countrey Souldier, when he comes to another Kingdome is presently made much of, and advan∣ced. The Hollanders are the best in the World at Draining, witness what they have done in England and France, at Bourdeaux, and in Britany.

But their Fishing is a thing which in

••ll manners deserves admiration. But they have one odd diverting way of it, which I shall here relate.

There are three Islands which serve as a bar to the Ocean: The first is the Texel, where are made excellent Chee∣ses. The second is the Ulic, where are taken great quantities of Muscles. The third is Schelling, the Inhabitants of which last are much given to Fishing, and the way that they use to catch the Fish, which they call a Sea-Dog, is ve∣ry pleasant. They disguise themselves like Beasts, and at certain hours that these Fishes are us'd to come out upon the shore, they leap and dance before them, and by a thousand antick tricks make them follow them, and leave the shore: in the mean time those that are in Ambushcade set their Nets; then the dancers throw off their Masks, and ta∣king their humane shape upon them, come upon the poor Sea-Dogs, who en∣deavouring to re-gain the Sea are en∣tangled in the Nets, and made a prey to those that had diverted them.

The Hollanders transport salt-Fish all the World over.

There is not any season in the year that does not produce some particular pleasure. For what is more pleasant, than to see the Meadows cover'd with Flowers all the Spring and Summer. Autumn produces an abundance of Fruits. The Winter is more pleasant here than any where else; for in so sad a season, the diversion of the fro∣zen Channels, full of people, sli∣ding upon them, is no small one. Wood is not dear here; and you shall have more for 10. pound at Amsterdam, than at Paris for 15. If the Water be not to be drunk, in recompence there is very good ••eer to be had. 'Tis true, that the Windes and the Rain are very fre∣quent, by reason of the Neighbour∣hood of the Sea; but the inconveni∣ence is recompenced by the conve∣nience of travelling; for if the wayes be broke and bad, you may go by Water. A Merchant never misses of an opportunity of tran∣sporting himself and his Goods, the Channels being loaded night

and day with an infinite number of Boats.

But as there is nothing abso∣lutely perfect, Holland has its Cloudes, its North-Windes, its Rains, and its foggy Mists, which do much bate of the beauty and pleasantness of this fam'd and re∣nowned Province.

The Treaty of Peace Conclu∣ded the thirtieth of Janu∣ary, of the present year, 1648. in the Town of Mun∣ster in Westphalia, between the most Illustrious and most Potent Prince, Philip the fourth, King of Spain, &c. on one side, and the High and Mighty Lords, the States Generall, of the United Provinces of the Low-Countries, on the other.

IN the Name of God. Be it known to all, that after the bloody Wars, that have for so many years afflict∣ed the people, and Subjects, of the o∣bedience

of the King of Spain, and the States Generall; they the said King and States being moved with Christian com∣passion, and being desirous to put an end to all the calamities, and deplorable consequences, which the farther conti∣nuance of the Wars of the said Low-Countries might produce, and to change them into the rest and tranquillity of a firm peace, have, to compass so good an end, Deputed and Commissioned fit persons on both sides, viz. on the side of the said Don Philip the fourth, King of Spain, Don Gaspar de Bracamonte, Y de Guzman, Count of Pigneranda, Lord of Aldea seca de la Frontera, Knight of the Order of Alcantara, per∣petuall Administrator of the Comman∣dery of Damyel, of the Order of Cala∣trava, Gentleman of his Majesties Bed-Chamber, of his privy Counsell, and his Embassador Extraordinary towards his Imperiall Majesty, as also first Ple∣nipotentiary for his Majesty in the Treaty of the generall Peace. Mon∣sieur A••tony Brnn, Knight and Coun∣sellor for his Majesty, in his supream Counsell of State for the Low-Countries,

and his Plenipotentiary in the generall Peace.

On the sides of the States Generall, Bartold de Gent, Lord of Looven and Meynerswicke, Senechal and Diikgrave of Bommel, Fieler, and Brommelerweer∣den, deputed by the Nobility of Guel∣dres, in the Assembly of the States Ge∣nerall. Jean de Mateness, Lord of Mateness, Riviere, Opmeer, Soute∣veen, and Deputy in the ordinary Counsell of Holland and West-Frieze; as also Deputy in the States Generall, from the Nobles of the said Province; Councellor and Heemrade of Shieland Adrian Paw, Knight, Lord of Heem∣steed, Hogersmilde, and first President, Counsellor, and Master of the Ac∣counts of Holland and West-Frieze; as also Deputy in the Assembly of the States Generall, by the said Provinces. Jean de Knu••t, Knight, Lord of Old and New Vosmar, representing the No∣bility in the States in Counsell of Zee∣land, as in the Admiralty; first Coun∣sellor of his Highness the Prince of O∣range, Deputy in the Assembly of the States. G••dart de R••••de, Lord of Ne∣derhorst,

Uredelant, Cortcho••f, Over∣meer, Horstwaert, &c. President in the Assembly of the Nobles of the Province of Utrect, and by them Deputy in the Assembly of the States Generall. Fran∣cis de Doma, Lord of Hinn••ma, Hicl∣sum, Deputy in the Assembly of the States Generall, by the Province of Frizeland. William Riperda, Lord of Hengeloo, Boxbergen, Boculoo, and Sussenbergh, Deputy by the Nobility of Overyssel, in the Assembly of the States Generall. All Extraordinary Embassa∣dors in Germany, and Plenipotentiaries of the said States, for the Treaty of the generall Peace. All being sufficiently impowr'd and assembled in the Town of Munster in Westphalia; have by com∣mon consent, and in vertue of their re∣spective powers receiv'd from the said King, and the Lords, the States Gene∣rall, Concluded and Agreed upon these following Articles.

1. The said King does Declare and Acknowledge, that the said Lords, the States Generall, of the United Provinces, and their Provinces, Countrey-Towns, Lands, and Appurtenances, are free and

Soveraign States, Provinces, and Coun∣tries: upon which, nor upon their Towns, &c. the said King neither doth, nor shall henceforth, or his Heirs and Successors, pretend any thing. And that in consequence of this his De∣claration, he is content to treat with the said States, as he does by these, and conclude a perpetuated peace with them, upon the Conditions here follow∣ing.

2. To wit, that the said peace shall be firm and inviolable; and that all acts of hostility, of what kinde soever, shall cease both by Sea and by Land, in all the Kingdomes and Countries of the obedi∣ence of the said King, and the said States; as also between all their Sub∣jects, of what quality soever they be, without exception of places or per∣sons.

3. Each shall remain in peaceable possession, and shall keep and enjoy all the Countrey-Towns, Lands, Places, and Lordships, that he now enjoyes, and that without being any wayes mo∣lested directly or indirectly. And in this is comprehended the Burroughs,

Villages, and Countrey, appertaining and belonging to that which each shall possess; and by consequence all the Mayorship of Bosleduke; as also all the Lordships, Towns, Castles, Bur∣roughs, Villages, and Champain, thereunto belonging; the Town and Marqueship of Bergues upon Zoom; the Town and Barony of Breda; the Town of Maestrict, and the extent of its jurisdiction; the County of Groon∣hoff; the Town of Grave; and the Countrey of Luychuist; and the Bayli∣ship of Hulst, and Hulster-Ambact, and Ambact: as also the Forts which the said Lords the States do possess now in the Countrey of Waes; and all other Towns and places which the said States do hold in Brabant, Flanders, or any where else, shall remain in the power of the said States, with all the Right of Soveraignty, in the same manner as they hold the United Provinces: but all the rest of the said Countrey of Waes, except the said Forts, shall re∣main unto the said King of Spain. As concerning the three places on the other side the Meuse, viz. Falquimont, Da∣lem,

and Rodeleduc, they shall remain in the condition they are now in; and in case of dispute, the business shall be decided in the (Chambre mipartic) to be mentioned in the following Arti∣cles.

4. The Subjects and Inhabitants of the Countries of the said King and States, shall live in good union and correspondency together, without any resentment for past injuries; and they shall have liberty to go and stay in the Territories of each other, and to exer∣cise their Trade and Commerce in all surety, both by Sea and Land.

5. The Navigation and Trade to the East and West-Indies shall be maintain'd, in conformity to those Grants or Pa∣tents given or to give by the States: for surety whereof shall serve this pre∣sent Treaty, and the ratification of it; and under this Treaty shall be compre∣hended all Potentates, Nations, and Peoples, with whom the said States, or the East and West-India Companies in their name, within the limits of their Patent, are in amity or alliance. And the said King and States shall respective∣ly

remain in possession of all those Lordships, Towns, Castles, Fortres∣ses, Commerce and Trade, in the East and West-Indies; as also upon the Coasts of Brasil, Asia, Africa, and America, that the said King and States do now hold. And in this Article are particu∣larly comprized all those places and Forts, that the Portugueses ever since 1641. have taken from the States; as also are comprehended all those places, that the said States shall hereafter take, conquer, and possess, without infra∣ction of the present Treaty. And the Curators or Directors of the East and West-India Companies of the United Pro∣vinces; as also the Officers, Agents, Souldiers, Mariners, being at prefen•• at the service of the said Companies, o•• having been formerly employed by them; and all such as being now out of their service, do live within the juris∣diction of the said Companies, shall re∣main free and unmolested, in all places under the obedience of the said King in Europe, and may travell, trade, and frequent in all places, as all other Inha∣bitants of the States. Besides, it has

been Stipulated and Agreed, that the Spaniards retain their Navigation to the East-Indies, in such manner as it is now for this present time, without the liber∣ty of extending themselves any further. As also the Inhabitants of these Provin∣ces shall abstain from frequenting the places that the Castilians do possess in the East-Indies.

6. And as for the West-Indies, the Subjects and Inhabitants of the King∣domes and Countries of the said King and States, shall respectively abstain from Navigation and Trade in all the Harbours, places, Forts, Castles, pos∣sess'd by either: to wit, that the Sub∣jects of the said King shall not navigate nor trade in those that belong to the States, nor the Subjects of the States in those that belong to the said King. And in the places of the States, shall be comprehended all those that the Portu∣gueses since 1641. have taken in Brasil, upon the said States, and all those that they now possess, as long as they shall remain in the possession of the said States. In all which there is nothing contrary to the precedent Article.

7. And because a long space of time is necessary, for the giving notice to those that are now abroad with Ships and Forces, that they may defist from all acts of hostility; it hath been A∣greed, that within the limits of the Pa∣tent granted, or to be granted, by continuation, to the Company of the East-Indies of the United Provinces, the peace shall begin no sooner than a year after the date of the present Treaty. And as for the limits of the Patent, granted heretofore by the States Gene∣rall, or to be granted by continuation, unto the Company of the West-Indies, the peace shall not there begin till six moneths after the date of the present Treaty. Provided still, that if the no∣tice of the said peace be arriv'd by pub∣lick Order of each side to the said limits, before the said time be expir'd, that then immediately all acts of hostility shall cease. And that if after the term be expir'd, there be yet committed some acts of hostility, the dammages shall be repair'd without delay.

8. The Subjects and Inhabitants of the Countries of the said King and

States, trafficking in one anothers Countrey, shall not be forc'd to pay any greater Impositions or Customes, than their own Subjects respectively; so that thereby the Subjects of the said States shall be freed and exempted from the Imposition of 20. per cent. or any other whatsoever, which the said King did levy during the truce of 12. years, or would hereafter raise directly or in∣directly upon the Inhabitants of the said States, or any wayes charge them further than his own proper Sub∣jects.

9. The said King and States shall not raise any Contributions or Im∣posts out of their limits respectively, upon any Merchandize, passing ei∣ther by Land or Wa∣ter.

10. The Subjects of each shall re∣spectively enjoy all freedome of * 1.1 Pea∣ges, that they were in possession of before the beginning of the War.

11. The Trade, Commerce, and

Frequentation, shal•• not be hinder'd, between the Subjects of the said King and States; and if it should chance to be obstructed any wayes, the obsta∣cle shall immediately be taken a∣way.

12. And after the day of the conclu∣sion and ratification of this peace, the said King shall no longer enjoy, upon the Rivers of Rhene and Mouse, those Customes or Peages, which before the War were under the jurisdiction of any of the United Provinces; particularly, the Peage of Zeeland, which shall not be levied for his Majesty, neither in the Town of Antwerp, nor any where else: upon condition that from that day for∣wards, the States of Zeeland shall take upon them to pay the annuall Rents, to those to whom the said Peage was mor∣gaged, before the year 1572. which also shall do the Proprietors of all other Peages, if they be charg'd with annuall Rents.

13. The white boyl'd Salt coming from the United Provinces into those of his Catholick Majesty, shall be receiv'd and admitted without any higher Im∣post,

than upon Bay-Salt: and like∣wise the Salt coming from his Majesties Countries shall be admitted in those of the States, upon the same conditi∣ons.

14. The Rivers of Scheld, as also the Channels of Zas and Zwin, and o∣ther entries into the Sea thereabouts, shall be shut up by the States Generall on their side.

15. The Ships and Goods coming in and going out of the Harbours of Flan∣ders, shall be taxed at the same rate as the Ships and Goods going upon the Scheld, and the Channels nam'd in the above-written Article; and it shall be agreed of the proportion between the parties hereafter.

16. The Anseatick-Towns, with all their Citizens and Inhabitants, shall en∣joy as to Navigation and Trade in Spain, and all the Kingdomes and States thereof, all the Priviledges and Immunities granted at present, or that shall be hereafter given to the Subjects of the United Provinces. And recipro∣cally all the Subjects of the said Provin∣ces shall enjoy the same Rights, Fran∣chises,

Immunities, Priviledges, and Capitulations, as well for the establish∣ing of Consuls in the capitall Towns or Sea-Ports of Spain, as for their Mer∣chants, Factors, Masters of Ships, Ma∣riners, or others; and that in the same manner, that the said Anseatick-Towns in generall, or in particular, have heretofore practis'd or obtain'd, and shall hereafter obtain, for the safety and advantage of Navigation and Trade of their Towns, Merchants, &c.

17. Likewise the Inhabitants of the Countries of the said States, shall have the same liberty in the said Kings Do∣minions, that the Subjects of his Maje∣sty of Great Britain do enjoy, by the Articles in the last Treaty of peace made in secret, with the High Constable of Castile.

18. The said King shall as soon as possible assign a place for the honoura∣ble burying of the bodies of such of the States Subjects, as shall die in his Do∣minions.

19. The Subjects and Inhabitants of the said Kings Dominions, coming into

the Territories of the States, shall as to the publick exercise of Religion, com∣port themselves with all modesty, with∣out giving any scandall, or proffering any blasphemy, and the same shall be observ'd by the Subjects of the United Provinces.

20. The Merchants, Masters of Ships, Pilots, Mariners, their Ships, Goods, and other things belonging to them, shall not be arrested nor detain'd, by vertue of any Order, either gene∣rall or speciall, nor for any cause of War, or otherwise; nor under the pre∣text of using them for the preservation of the Countrey. Hereby neverthe∣less are not meant all seisings and ar∣rests of Ships, by the ordinary proceed∣ings of justice, by reason of Debts, Obligations, and Contracts, of those whose Goods are seised, who shall be left to the course of the Law.

21. There shall be fram'd a Court of equall number of Commissioners on both sides, who shall sit in such places in the Low-Countries as shall be thought fit; sometimes under the obedience of one, and sometimes under the obedi∣ence

of the other State, as it shall be agreed by common consent; and accor∣ding to their Commission (which they shall be sworn to observe) they shall take care to maintain a good correspon∣dency on both sides; shall also have a regard to the Taxes and Impositions laid on both sides upon Merchandize; and if they perceive that on either side there be excess committed, they shall imme∣diately redress it. Besides, the said Judges shall examine all questions touching the non-observancce of this Treaty of peace; as also the contraven∣tions or failings against it, not only here, but in distant Provinces and King∣domes of Europe, and shall decide them by a short way. The Sentences and Decrees of which Judges shall be put in execution by all under-Officers, living upon the places, against the person of the transgressors, as necessity shall re∣quire; and the said subordinate Officers may by no means fail in this at their perill.

22. If any Judgement or Decree should pass between persons of different parties, either in civill or criminall mat∣ters,

they shall not be put in execution, neither against the Goods nor against the persons of the said parties; and no Letters of Reprizall shall be granted, but with cognizance of cause, and ac∣cording to the Imperiall Constitu∣tions, and the Order by them esta∣blish'd.

23. It shall not be free to enter or stay in the Harbours, Ports, Bayes, and Rodes, of each other, with men of War, or arm'd Ships, in such numbers as may give occasion of jealousie to any, without the leave and permission of that State to whom the said Ports, &c. do belong; except in case of a storm, or that there were some other necessity of avoiding danger at Sea.

24. They whose Estates have been seized upon, and confiscated, by rea∣son of the War, or their Heirs, Exe∣cutors, &c. shall enjoy the said E∣states, and may enter into possession of them by their own authority, by ver∣tue of this present Treaty, notwith∣standing all Alienations, Incorporati∣ons, into the publick Treasury, Gifts,

Treaties, Agreements, and Transacti∣ons whatsoever, though they contain Renunciations of the parties to whom the said Estates do belong. And all such Estates once restored, may be sold by the Proprietors, their Heirs, &c. without a necessity of a further or more particular leave. And in conse∣quence of this, the Proprietaries of such Rents as shall be constituted by the Treasury, in lieu of the said Estates thus sold, may dispose of the propriety they have in them by Sale, or o∣therwise, as of any part of their E∣state.

25. This shall take place to the profit of the Heirs of the deceased Illustrious Prince, William, Prince of Orange; even for the right they have in the salt-Wells of the County of Burgundy, which shall be restored to them; as also the Woods that do depend on them, that is, so much as shall not be found to have been bought and payed for by his Catholick Majesty.

26. In which are also comprized the Estate and Lands lying in the Counties of Burgundy and Charolois; and all which

has not been restor'd as it ought to have been, by the Treaties of the ninth of April, 1609. and the seventh of Ja∣nuary, 1610. These I say shall be re∣stor'd to the Proprietaries, their Heirs, &c.

27. As also are hereby understood such Lands and Rights, as after the ex∣piration of the Truce of 12. years, were by sentence of the Council of Ma∣lines, judged in favour of the Count John de Nassaw; which Sentence by vertue of this Treaty is made void, and any other acquisition of possession is also an∣null'd.

28. And as for the Suit in Law about Castle-Beliu, begun in the life of the late Prince of Orange, against the At∣torney-Generall of the King of Spain. Since the said Cause has not been deter∣mined in the time of a year, as it was promis'd by the fourteenth Article of the Truce for 12. years; it has been agreed, that immediately after the con∣clusion and ratification of the present Treaty, the Treasury shall desist from all demands touching the said Suit in Law; and that the Prince of Orange,

and his Heirs, shall freely enjoy with∣out molestation, the Lands and Chat∣tels in question, as his own for ever: upon condition likewise, that the Trea∣sury shall not be forced to refund for the past possession of them.

29. If in any place there arise diffi∣culties touching the restitution of Land and Rights, the Judge of the place shall without delay cause the execution, and in this shall proceed the shortest way work.

30. The Subjects of the said King and States, may reciprocally in the Domi∣nions of each, use such Lawyers, At∣torneys, Sollicitors, &c. as they shall think fit.

31. If the Treasury has caus'd any confiscated Estates to be sold, those persons to whom they belong shall be content to receive the payment of them at 16. years purchase, to be payd them every year; or else they shall have li∣berty to distrain upon the Land, in what hands soever they finde it. Pro∣vided, they have Patents from the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to serve them for a title, with the Assig∣nation of the annuall payment, upon

some receiver of the Kings Revenue, in that Province in which the thing shall have been sold; which receiver shall also be nam'd in the Patent, and the price of the thing sold calculated, and summ'd up, according to the first publick sale of it: the first year of which payment shall end a year after the ratification of this present Trea∣ty.

32. But if the sale was made for good and lawfull Debts, of those to whom the said Estates did belong, before the confiscation, it shall be lawfull for them or their Heirs to redeem the said Estates, paying the price of them in a year; after which time they shall be excluded from this priviledge: but having once redeem'd, they may sell and dispose of such Estates as they please.

33. Yet under this are not under∣stood such Houses as have been sold in Towns; for by reason of the many changes and reparations made in them, it would be too hard a matter to settle and determine their just va∣lue.

34. And as for all reparations and improvements made in all other re∣deem'd Estates, the Judges shall exa∣mine them, and have a regard to them; yet shall it not be lawfull for the posses∣sors to retain those Estates till they be re-imbursed, but such Estates shall be bound and morgaged for their pay∣ment.

35. All Estates, Claims, Rights, &c. that have been kept hidden; all Moveables, Immoveables, Rents, Actions, Debts, &c. which shall not have been seized upon by the Treasury, with good cognizance of cause, before the day of the ratification of this Trea∣ty, shall remain in the free disposition of the Proprietaries, their Heirs, &c. with all the Fruits, Revenues, Rents, and Profits of them. And those that have so hid the said Estates, Rights, &c. shall not be any wayes mo∣lested by the Treasury, but shall enjoy and dispose of them as of their own.

36. The Trees cut down after the day of the conclusion of this Treaty, or such as shall be cut down the day of the

conclusion; and those not being cut down, are nevertheless bargain'd for, shall remain to the Proprietary, not∣withstanding the sale of them.

37. The Fruits, Farms, Rents, Leases, Tenths, Fishing-Houses, &c. of such Estates, as according to this Treaty, shall be restor'd to the right owners; if they fall after the conclusi∣on of this Treaty, shall remain for the whole year to the Proprietaries, and their Heirs, &c.

38. All Farms and Leases of confis∣cated Estates, though made for many years, shall nevertheless expire and be at an end, in the year of the conclusion of this Treaty; and the Farms or Lea∣ses falling after the day of the conclusi∣on of this Treaty, shall belong to the Proprietaries; with this caution, that if the Farmer of the said Estates, has employed any of his stock towards the said years crop, he shall be re-payed by the Proprietary, as the Judges of the place shall value the said disburse∣ment.

39. All sale of confiscated Estates made after the conclusion of this Trea∣ty,

is void; as also the sale made be∣fore the conclusion, if it be against the Capitulations and Agreements made particularly with certain Towns.

40. The Houses of particular per∣sons that are or shall be restor'd, shall not be made Garrisons on neither side; neither shall they pay any higher Taxe or Contribution, than the Houses of o∣ther Inhabitants.

41. None on either side shall be hin∣dred directly or indirectly, from chang∣ing the place of his abode, so he pay the ordinary Taxes.

42. If any Fortifications or Works have been made on either side by Au∣thority, in such places as are to be re∣stored, the Proprietaries shall be con∣tent to value them at the rate the Judg∣es of the place shall put upon them; as also the Proprietaries shall receive sa∣tisfaction, for so much of their Estates as shall have been made use of, either in Fortifications, publick Works, or pious uses.

43. As for Church-Revenues, Col∣ledges, and other pious places, situated in the United Provinces, which were

members and dependances of the Bene∣fices, Colledges, &c. now under the obedience of the King of Spain; so much of them as has not been sold be∣fore the conclusion of the present Trea∣ty, shall be restor'd, and the owners may take possession of it by their own Authority; but for those that have been sold, or otherwise disposed of, they shall receive a yearly Rent to the value of them, after the rate of 8. in the 100. The same shall be observ'd on the side of the said King.

44. As for the p••e••ensions and inte∣rest that the Prince of Orange may have in such things which he is not in pos∣session of, there shall be made a Treaty by it self, to the satisfaction of the said Prince. But as for the Lands, Goods, &c. that the said Prince is in possession of, by the gift of the said States, in Bay∣〈…〉〈…〉f ship of Hulster-Ambacth, and else∣where, they shall all remain in his free possession as his own, excluding here∣by all pretensions to the contrary by this Treaty, or any other.

45. Touching certain other 'points, which besides the contents of the prece∣ding

Article, have been agreed upon, and signed in two different Writings, one of the 8th of January, the other of the 27th of December, 1647. in the name of the said Prince of Orange; the said Writings shall be observ'd, accom∣plish'd, and executed, according to their contents, just as if all the said points in particular were all inserted into this present Treaty; and this notwithstand∣ing all Clauses or Articles of this Trea∣ty, any wayes contrary; for if there be any such, they are declar'd void in that point, by this present Article.

46 Those to whom confiscated E∣states are to be restor'd, shall not be bound to pay any Arrearages, Rents, Charges, &c. specially assign'd upon the said Estates, for the time they did not enjoy them; and if any pursuit or molestation do befall them, they shall immediately be relieved.

47. Judgements given upon confis∣cated Estates, between parties that did acknowledge the power of the Judges, shall hold; only the condemn'd parties may seek relief by the ordinary course of justice.

48. The said King does quit and re∣nounce all pretensions of Redemption, or other, upon the Town of Grave, the Countrey of Luych, its Appurte∣nances, Dependances, and the ancient Barony of Brabant, engaged hereto∣fore to the Prince of Orange, and which has been since converted as propriety to the use of Prince Maurice of Nassaw, in December, 1611. by the States Gene∣rall, as Soveraigns of the said Town of Grave, and Countrey of Luych. In vertue of which concession, the Prince of Orange that now is, his Heirs, &c. shall enjoy for ever the propriety of the said Town of Grave, &c. with all its Dependances, &c.

49. The said King does also re∣nounce to all Right, Claims, &c. ei∣ther of propriety, or cession, &c. to the Town, County, and Lordship of Lingen, and the four Villages, and o∣ther its Dependances; as also to the Towns and Lordships of Bev••rgarde, Cloppenberge, that they may remain for ever to the said Prince of Orange, his Heirs, &c. confirming by this Treaty all the said Princes other Titles to them.

50. The said King and States shall each of them separately, and for them∣selves, place Judges and Officers in such Towns and strong places, as by this Treaty are to be restor'd to the Proprie∣taries.

51. The high part of Gueldres shall be changed for an Equivalence; which if it cannot be agreed upon in this Treaty, shall be decided by the Chamber of e∣quall number of Judges on both sides, and that in the time of six moneths after the ratification of the Treaty.

52. The said King does oblige him∣self to procure effectively, the continu∣ation of the neutrality, friendship, and good neighbour-hood, of his Imperiall Majesty, and the Empire, with the States; to the observation of which, the States do likewise oblige themselves: and the confirmation of the said neutra∣lity shall be made in the space of two moneths, by his Imperiall Majesty, and in the time of a year by the Em∣pire, after the ratification of this Treaty.

53. The Fruits, Moveables, confis∣cated and receiv'd before the conclusion

of this Treaty, shall not be subject to be restor'd.

54. They that during the War were retir'd into Countries that did stand neuters, shall enjoy the benefit of this Treaty, and may stay where they please, or return to their ancient homes, there to live in all quiet and tranquilli∣ty, in the observation of the Laws of their Countrey, without danger of ha∣ving their Estates or Chattels seized on, by reason of the stay they make in any place whatsoever.

55. There shall be no new Forts made in the Low-Countries of neither side; neither shall there be made any new Channels, or Trenches, by which any of the parties may be dammage∣ed.

56. The Lords of the House of Nas∣saw, as also the Count John Albert of Solms, Governor of Maestric, shall not be pursued nor molested neither in their persons nor Estates, for any Debts contracted by the late William, Prince of Orange, 1667. to his death, nor for any Arrears due during the confiscation of such Lands as were charged with the said Debts.

57. If there be any infraction made in the Treaty by private persons, with∣out the Authority of the said King or States, the dammage shall be immedi∣ately repair'd in the place where the of∣fence was committed, if the persons be there taken, or in their Domicile; but it shall not be lawfull to pursue them else-where either in their persons, or Estates, or to take Arms, and break the peace; but in case of deniall of justice, to proceed by Letters of Re∣prisall.

58. All Exheredations made by rea∣son of the War, and aversion of parties, are made void; and in this are com∣prehended all Exheredations made for such causes as were causes of the War.

59. All prisoners of War shall be de∣liver'd on both sides, without distincti∣on of persons, and that without ran∣some.

60. The payment of the Arrears of Contributions on both sides, shall be decided by the Supervisors of the said Contributions.

61. All that during this Negotiation

shall be said or alledged either by word of mouth, or by writing, shall not be a prejudice to the Authors; but the said King and States, and all the Princes, Counts, Barons, Gentlemen, Citi∣zens, and all Inhabitants, shall enjoy the benefit of this Treaty.

62. The Subjects of the said King and States respectively, shall enjoy the benefit of the 15^th Article of the Truce of 12. years, and of the 10th Article of the Agreement that followed the 7^th of January, 1610. and that because that during the time of the said Truce, the parties did not enjoy the effect of those Articles.

63. The limits in Flanders and other places shall be set out so, that the par∣ties may exactly know under what ju∣risdiction they are.

64. On the side of the said King of Spain, shall be demolish'd near the Sluce these following places and Forts, viz. the Fort of St. Job, St. Donas, the Star-Fort, the Fort St. Terese, St. Frederick, St. Isabella, St. Paul, the redoute Pape∣m••ts. And on the side of the States Ge∣nerall, shall be demolish'd the following

Forts; the two Forts in the Island of Lasant, call'd Orange and Fredericke; the two Forts de Pas, both upon the River of Scheld, on the East-side (ex∣cept Lill••) and the Fort a Kieldrect, call'd Spinola, touching which Demoli∣tion, it shall be agreed between the par∣ties to set out an Equivalence.

65. All Registers, Charters, Let∣ters, and Papers, concerning Law-Suits, or otherwise, that do any wayes regard or concern any of the United Pro∣vinces, their Towns and Members, be∣ing in the Courts and Chambers of the obedience of the King of Spain, shall be deliver'd bonâfide, to such as shall have commission from the Provinces to re∣ceive them. And the same shall be done by the States, for the Provinces and Towns that are under the said Kings obedience.

66. The jurisdiction of the Water shall be left to the Town of Sluce, as it has of right belonged to it.

67. The Digue traversing and stop∣ping up the River Zout, near the Fort Donas, shall be taken away, by making a Zas, touching the Garde, of which

Zas it shall be agreed upon, as touch∣ing the Demolition of the Forts.

68. In this present Treaty of peace shall be comprehended such as before the exchange of ratifications, or three moneths after, shall be nam'd on both sides; in which time the said King shall name those that he shall think fit: but by the States are nam'd these following; the Prince Landgrave of Hesse-Cassel, with his Countrey-Towns, &c. the Count of Oostfrieze, the Town of Emb∣den, the County and Countrey of Oost∣frieze, the Anseatick Towns, and parti∣cularly Lubec, Bremen, Hambourg. And the said States do reserve to them∣selves, to name such others as they shall think fit in the time prescri∣bed.

69. As for the pretension of Count of Flodrof, touching the restitution made to him of the Castle of Leat, and its Dependances, and all other Villages that may depend on it, and were seized by the said King; the said restitution is confirm'd to him, with this reserve, that it shall be resolv'd between this and the conclusion of the Treaty, about the

entertaining of a Garrison for the said King, or demolishing the Fortifica∣tions made since that the Castle was taken.

70. As for all that was agreed upon the 8^th of December, 1646. between the Plenipotentiaries of the said King and States, touching Roger Huygens, in the name of his Wife, Anna Mar∣garita de Stralem, it shall have its effect, and be of force, as if it were here set down word for word.

71. And to the end that this present Treaty be the better observed, the said King and States do promise to employ all their power and force, to make all passages free, and all Seas and Rivers navigable and safe, against the inrodes of Pirats and Theeves, and to pun∣ish them severely if they can take them.

72. They do promise besides to do nothing contrary to this present Trea∣ty, nor to suffer that any thing should be done either directly or indirectly; and if any thing be done, to repair the offence and dammage without delay. To the observation of all which, they

do here binde themselves; and the more to strengthen the Obligation, do renounce all Laws and Customes contrary to this promise.

73. This present Treaty shall be ratified and approved by the said King and States, and the Letters of ratification shall be deliver'd and exchanged on each side, within the term of two moneths; and if the said ratification do come before∣hand, then all acts of hostility shall cease, without staying for the end of the two moneths. Still it is meant, that after the conclusion and signing of this Treaty, hostili∣ty shall not cease, till the ratifica∣tion of the said King of Spain be deliver'd in good form, and ex∣chang'd with the ratification of the States.

74. So that affaires on both sides shall remain in the same po∣sture and condition, as at the con∣clusion of this Treaty they are, and this till the ratifications be ex∣chang'd.

75. This Treaty shall be pub∣lish'd

in all places that shall re∣quire it, incontinent after the ex∣change of the ratifications, and then all acts of hostility shall cease.

The Treaty of Navigation and Commerce, Concluded at the Hague in Holland, the 17th of December, 1650. between Messire Antony Brun, Extraordinary Em∣bassador for the King of Spain on one side, and the Deputies of the Lords, the States Generall of the U∣nited Provinces, on the other side.

WHereas since the conclu∣sion of the peaee at Munster, between the King of Spain, and the States Gene∣rall,

there has happened some disputes about the true sence of the separate Ar∣ticle, concluded the 4th of February, 1648. in the said Town, touching Na∣vigation and Commerce; the said King and States have thought fit, for the more sincere and perfect observation of the said Treaty of peace, to give a bet∣ter explanation of their meaning: to which end the said King has on his side Deputed and Commission'd Messire Antony Prun, Counsellor in his High Councill of State for the Low-Countries, near his person, and his Plenipotentia∣ry at the Treaty of Munster, as his Or∣dinary Embassador to the said States; who on their side have likewise Commis∣sioned these following, Rugzer Huy∣gens, Knight; Banninck Cock, Knight, Lord of Purmerlant and Apendam, Bourgemaster and Counsellor of the Town of Amsterdam; Cornelius Ripe∣ra, Bourgemaster, Regent of the Town of Horne; James V••th, Counsellor and Pensioner of the Town of Middlebourg in Zeeland; Giisbert de Hoolk, old Bourgemaster of the Town of Utrect; Joachim Andree, first ancient Counsel∣lor

in the Provinciall Court of Fri••ze∣land; John de la Beech, of Dorvick and Crystenburgh, Bourgemaster of the Town of Deventer; Adrian Dant a Ste∣dum, Lord of Nittersum, all De∣puties of the body of their Assem∣bly.

The said Embassador and Deputies having held many Assemblies and Con∣ferences, have at last in the name of the said King and States, agreed upon and concluded this present Treaty, all its Ar∣ticles and Conditions.

1. The Subjects and Inhabitants of the United Provinces may with safety and liberty trade with all those Kingdoms, States, and Countries, that are or shall be in peace, amity, or neutrality, with the said States of the United Provin∣ces.

2. And they may not be molested or troubled in this freedom, by the Ships or Subjects of the King of Spain, by reason of the hostilities that are or may be hereafter between the said King, and the said Kingdomes, States, &c. that are in peace, &c. with the said States.

3. This shall extend it self as to France, for all sorts of Commodities that were used to be transported, be∣fore the said Kingdome was in War with Spain.

4. Yet shall not the Subjects of the United Provinces furnish France with such Merchandizes as come from the States of the said King of Spain, and may serve the French against him and his States.

5. And as for other Kingdomes, States, &c. that may be in War with the said King of Spain, and are in neu∣trality or friendship with the States, their Subjects shall not carry to those Kingdomes, &c. any forbidden Goods, or Merchandizes of Counterband; which to hinder, the said States shall forbid it by express prohibiti∣ons.

6. Besides, to prevent the dispute that might arise concerning the Mer∣chandizes that are of Counterband, and those that are not; it is agreed, that under that name and quality are under∣stood these following, all fire-Arms, and things belonging to them, as Ca∣nons,

Musquets, Mortar-Peeces, Pe∣tards, Bombes, Grenadoes, Cereles, Squibs, Carriages, Forks, Powder, Match, Salt-Peter, Bullets. All other Arms likewise, offensive and defensive, as Pikes, Swords, Casques, Helmets, Back and Breast-pieces, Halberds, Pertuiscens, and other such. Besides, under the same name are understood the transport of Souldiers, Horses, Harness, Metall, Pistols, Belts, and all other Implements of War.

7. Further to avoid all dispute, it is agreed, that under that name of for∣bidden Merchandize, are not compre∣hended Wheat, and all sorts of Grains, Salt, Oyl, Wine, nor in generall any thing that is nourishment and sustenta∣tion to mens bodies, which shall be free, as all other Goods and Merchandi∣zes, not specified in the fore-going Ar∣ticles, and may be carried to all Towns, except to such as are besieged and block∣ed up.

8. And the better to hinder that the said forbidden Merchandizes do not pass into the hands of the enemies of the said King; and that under pretext of hin∣dring

the said transportation, the safe∣ty and liberty of Trade and Navigation be not hindred, it is agreed, that the Ships belonging to the Subjects of the United Provinces, being entred in any Port of the said Kings Dominions, and being from thence bound for the Ports of his enemies, shall be obliged only to produce and shew to the Officers of the said King, their Pasports, containing the particulars of their lading, seal'd and sign'd by the Officers of the Admi∣ralty of such places as they come from, with declaration of the places they are bound for, the whole in ordinary form; after which they shall not be molested, searched, nor detained, under any pre∣text whatsoever.

9. Likewise the Ships of the States Subjects being at Sea, or coming into some Bay without entring the Harbour, or coming in without unlading, shall not be bound to give an account of their lading, except they be suspected to carry Merchandizes of Counter∣band.

10. And in case of a violent suspiti∣on, they shall only be forced to shew

their Pasports, as has been said.

11. If they are met at Sea, or near the Shore, by any Ships or Privateers of the said King, then to avoid disorder and plunder, the said men to War may send their Boat with two or three men in it, aboard the Ship of the States, to which men shall be shewed by the Ma∣ster, the Pasport above-mentioned, with a particular Letter, shewing the quality and place of residence of the owner of the Ship, and Master in the said United Provinces, and to these shall be given credit without further enquiry; but that there be no counterfeit Letters, the said King and States shall agree of particular marks, not easily to be imi∣tated.

12. And in case there should be found in the Ships belonging to the States Subjects, by the foresaid means, some of those Merchandizes, call'd of Counterband, they shall be seized up∣on, and confiscated before the Judges of the Admiralty, or other competent ones; but the said Ship and the rest of the lading shall no wayes be detained, or seized upon.

13. It has been agreed besides, that all Goods whatsoever that the Subjects of the States shall lade in the bottoms of the said Kings enemies, shall be con∣fiscated without reserve or excepti∣on.

14. But also all that shall be found in the bottoms of the Subjects of the said States, though part or all of it do be∣long to the enemies of the said King, yet it shall all be free, and not seized upon, except they be Merchandizes of Counterband.

15. The Subjects of the said King shall enjoy all the same liberties in Trade and Navigation, as is by this Treaty accorded to the Subjects of the United Provinces, with the same equali∣ty: and though some Kingdomes or States should have friendship or neutra∣lity with the said King, though they were enemies of the States, yet shall his Subjects enjoy all the benefit granted in the like case to the Subjects of the United Provinces.

16. This present Treaty shall be as an explanation to the particular Article concluded at Munster, the 4th day of February, 1648.

17. This present Treaty shall have the same force, as if it had been insert∣ed into the original Treaty at Munster; with this reserve, that if for the time to come any frauds or hindrances of Na∣vigation be discover'd, for which this Treaty has not provided a remedy, it shall be lawfull to adde to it such Cauti∣ons as both parties shall agree upon: till then it shall remain in force.

FINIS.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Peages is a word that sig∣nifies the right of levying such summes upon Merchants, in such and such places or passages.