A TRUE RELATION Of the Unjust, Cruel, and Barbarous pro∣ceedings against the English at Am∣boyna in the East-Indies, by the Ne∣therlanders there, upon a forged pre∣tence of a Conspiracy of the said English.

AFter the fruitless issue of two several Treaties: the first Anno 1613. in London; and the other An. 1615. at the Hague in Holland, touching the differences between the English and Dutch in the East-Indies, at last by a third Treaty, Anno 1619. in London, there was a full and solemn composition made of all the said differences, and a fair order Page  2 set for the future proceeding of the Sup∣posts of both Companies in the Indies, as well in the course of their Trade and commerce, as otherwise. Amongst sun∣dry other points, it was agreed, Tha• in regard of the great blood-shed and cost, pretended to be bestowed by the Hollanders in winning of the Trade o• the Isles of the Molluccos, Banda, and Amboyna, from the Spaniards and Por∣tugals, and in building of Forts for the continual securing of the same, the said Hollanders therefore should enjoy two third parts of that Trade, and the Eng∣lish the other third; and the charge of the Forts to be maintained by Taxes and Impositions to be levied upon the Mer∣chandize. Wherefore in consequence of this agreement, the English East-In∣dia Company planted certain Factories for their share of this Trade; some at Molluccos, some at Banda, and some at Amboyna. Of the two former of these, there will be, at this present, small oc∣casion to speak further; but the last will prove the Scene of a sad Trage∣dy.

This Amboyna is an Island lying near Page  3 Seran, of the circuit of forty leagues, and giveth name also to some other small Islands adjacent. It beareth Cloves; for gathering and buying in whereof, the English Company for their part, had planted five several Factories: the head and Rendezvouz of all, at the Town of Amboyna; and therein first Master George Muschamp, and afterward Mr. Gabriel Towerson, their Agents with directions over the smaller Factories at Hitto and Larica upon the same Island, and at Loho and Cambello, upon a point of their neighbouring Island of Seran.

Upon these Islands of Amboyna, and the point of Seran, the Hollanders have four Forts, the chief of all is at the said Town of Amboyna, and is very strong, having four Points or Bulwarks with their Curtains, and upon each of these Points, six great pieces of Ord∣nance mounted, most of them of brass. The one side of this Castle is washed by the Sea, and the other is divided from the land, with a Ditch of four or five fathom broad, very deep, and ever fill∣ed with the Sea. The Garrison of this Castle consisteth of about two hundred Page  4 Dutch Souldiers, and a Company of free Burgers. Besides these, there is alwaies a matter of three or four hundred Mar∣dikers (for so they usually call the free Natives) in the Town, ready to serve the Castle at an hours warning. There lie also in the road (for the most part) divers good Ships of the Hollanders, as well for the Guard of the place by Sea, as for the occasions of Traffick: this be∣ing the chief Rendezvouz, as well for the Island of Banda, as for the rest of Amboyna. Here the English lived; not in the Castle, but under protection, in a house of their own in the Town; hold∣ing themselves safe, as well in respect of the ancient bonds of amity between both Nations, as of the strict conjuncti∣on made by the late Treaty before men∣tioned.

They continued here some two years, conversing and trading together with the Hollanders, by vertue of the said Treaty. In which times there fell out sundry differences and debates between them: The English complaining that the Hollanders did not onely lavish away much Money in building, and unneces∣sary Page  5 expences, upon the Forts and other∣wise, and bring large and unreasonable reckonings thereof to the common ac∣count; but also did, for their part, pay the Garrisons with Victuals, and Cloath of Coromondell, which they put off to the Souldiers at three or four times the va∣lue it cost them, yet would not allow of the English Companies part of the same charge, but onely in ready Money; thereby drawing from the English (which ought to pay but one third part) more than two thirds of the whole true charge. Hereupon, and upon the like occasions, grew some discontents and disputes, and the complaints were sent to Jacatra, in the Island of Java Major to the Coun∣cil of defence of both Nations there re∣siding: who also, not agreeing upon the points in difference, sent the same hither over into Europe, to be decided by both Companies here; or, in default of their agreement, by the Kings Ma∣jesty, and the Lords the States Gene∣ral, according to an Article of the Trea∣ty of the year, 1619. on this behalf. In the mean time the discontent between the English and the Dutch, about these Page  6 and other differences, continued, and daily encreased, untill at last there was a sword found, to cut in sunder that knot at once, which the tedious dis∣putes of Amboyna and Jaccatra, could not untie. And this was used in manner as followeth.

About the eleventh of February 1622. Stilo veteri. A Japoner Soldier of the Dutch in their Castle of Amboyna, walk∣ing in the night upon the wall, came to the Sentinel (being a Hollander) and there, amongst other talk, asked him some questions touching the strength of the Castle, and the people that were therein. It is here to be noted, that those Japoners (of whom there is not thirty in all the Island) did, for the most part, serve the Dutch as Soldiers, yet were not of their trusty bands al∣waies lodged in the Castle, but upon oc∣casion called out of the Town to assist in the watch. This Japoner aforesaid, was for his said conference with the Sentinel, apprehended upon suspition of Treason, and put to the Torture. There∣by (as some of the Dutch affirmed) he was brought to confess himself, and Page  7 sundry others of his Countrey-men there, to have contrived the taking of the Ca∣stle. Hereupon, other Japoners were examined and Tortured, as also a Por∣tugal, the Guardian of the Slaves un∣der the Dutch. During this examina∣tion, which continued three or four days; some of the English-men went to and from the Castle upon their business, saw the prisoners, heard of their tortures, and of the crime laid to their charge; But all this while suspected not, that this matter did any whit concern them∣selves, having never had any conversa∣tion with the Japoners, nor with the Por∣tugal aforesaid. At the same time there was one Abel Price,* Chyrurgion of the English, prisoner in the Ca∣stle for offering in his Drunkenness to set a Dutch mans house on fire. This fellow the Dutch took, and shewed him some of the Japoners, whom they had first most grievously tortured, and told him, they had confessed the English to have been of their confederacy for the taking of the Castle; and that if he would not confess the same, they would Page  8 use him even as they had done these Ja∣poners, and worse also. Having given him the Torture, they soon made him confess whatever they asked him. This was the fifteenth of February 1622. Stilo veteri. Forthwith, about nine of the Clock the same morning, they sent for Captain Towerson, and the rest of the English that were in the Town, to come to speak with the Governour in the Castle: They all went, save one that was left to keep the house. Being come to the Governour, he told Cap∣tain Towerson, that himself and others of his Nation were accused of a con∣spiracy, to surprize the Castle, and therefore, untill further Trial were to remain prisoners. Instantly also they at∣tached him that was left at home in the house, took the Merchandize of the Eng∣lish Company there, into their own cu∣stody, by Inventory; and seized all the Chests, Boxes, Books, Writings, and other things in the English house. Cap∣tain Towerson was committed to his Chamber, with a Guard of Dutch Sol∣diers. Emmanuel Tomson was kept pri∣soner in the Castle; the rest, viz. John Page  9 Beomont, Edward Collins, William Webber, Ephraim Ramsey, Timothy Johnson, John Fardo, and Robert Brown, were sent aboard the Hollanders Ships then riding in Harbour, some to one Ship, and some to another, and all made fast in Irons. The same day also the Governour sent to the two other Factories in the same Island, to apprehend the rest of the Eng∣lish there. So that Samuel Colson, John Clark, George Sharrock, that were found in the Factory at Hitto, and Edward Col∣lins, William Webber, and John Sadler at Larica, were all brought prisoners to Amboyna, the sixteenth of February. Up∣on which day also John Powl, John We∣theral, and Thomas Ladbrook, were ap∣prehended at Cambello, and John Beo∣mont, William Grigs, and Ephraim Ram∣sey, at Loho, and brought in irons to Am∣boyna the twentieth of the same moneth. In the mean time the Governour and Fiscal went to work with the prisoners that were already there: And first they sent for John Beomont, and Timothy John∣son, from aboard the Ʋnicorn; who be∣ing come into the Castle, Beomont was left with a guard in the Hall, and John∣son Page  10 was taken into another room. Where, by and by, Beomont heard him cry out very pitifully; then to be quiet for a little while, and then loud again. After taste of the torture, Abel Price the Chyrurgion, that first was examined and tortured, (as is above remembred) was brought in to confront and accuse him: But Johnson not yet confessing any thing, Price was quickly carried out, and John∣son brought again to the torture; where Beomont heard him sometime cry aloud, then quiet again, then roar afresh. At last, after he had been about an hour in this second examination, he was brought forth wailing and lamenting, all wet, and cruelly burnt in divers parts of his body, and so laid aside in a by-place of the Hall, with a Souldier to watch him that he should speak with no body. Then was Emanuel Tomson brought to examination;* not in the room where Johnson had been, but in another, some∣thing farther from the Hall. Yet Beo∣mont being in the Hall, heard him roar most lamentably, and many times. At last, after an hour and an half spent in Page  11 torturing him, he was carried away into another room another way, so that he came not by Beomont through the Hall. Next was Beomont called in, and being demanded many things, all which he denied with deep Oaths and protestati∣ons, was made fast to be Tortured, a cloath tied about his neck, and two men ready with their Jarres of water to be poured on his head. But yet for this time the Governour bad loose him, he would spare him a day or two, because he was an old man. This was all Satur∣days work, the fifteenth of February aforesaid.

Upon Sunday the sixteenth of Fe∣bruary, William Webber, Edward Collins, Ephraim Ramsey, and Robert Brown, were fetcht from aboard the Rotterdam, to be examined. At the same time came Samuel Colson, William Grigs, and John Clark, George Sharrock, and John Sad∣ler, from Hitto and Larica, and were im∣mediately, upon their arrival, brought into the Castle Hall.

Robert Brown Tailor was Robert first called in;* and being tormented with water, con∣fessed Page  12 all in order as the Fiscal asked him.

Then was Edward Collins called in,* and told, that those that were formerly examined, had confess'd him as accessary to the Plot of taking the Castle. Which when he denied with great Oaths and execrations, they made his hands and feet fast to the Rack, bound a cloath about his throat, ready to be put to the torture of water. Thus prepared, he prayed to be respited, and he would confess all. Being let down, he again vowed and protested his innocency; yet said, that because he knew that they would by torture make him confess any thing, though never so false, they should do him a great favour, to tell him what they would have him say, and he would speak it, to avoid the torture. The Fiscal hereupon said, What, do you mock us? and bad, Up with him again; and so gave him the torment of water: which he not able long to endure, prayed to be let down again to his Confession. Then he devised a little with himself, and told them, That about two moneths and a Page  13 half before, himself, Tomson, Johnson, Brown, and Fardo, had plotted, with the help of the Japoners, to surprize the Castle. Here he was interrupted by the Fiscal, and asked, whether Captain Towerson were not of that conspiracy. He answered, No. You lie, said the Fiscal; did not he call you all to him, and tell you, that those daily abuses of the Dutch, had caused him to think of a Plot, and that he wanted nothing but your consent and secrecy? Then said a Dutch Merchant, one John Joost that stood by, Did not you all swear upon a Bible to be secret to him? Collins answered with great Oaths, that he knew nothing of any such matter. Then they bad make him fast again: where∣upon he then said, All was true that they had spoken. Then the Fiscal asked him, whether the English in the rest of the Factories, were not consenting to this Plot. He answered, No. The Fiscal then asked him, whether the President of the English at Jaccatra, or Master Welden Agent in Banda, were not Plot∣ters or privy to this business. Again he answered, No. Then the Fiscal asked Page  14 him, by what means the Japoners should have executed their purpose. Whereat, when Collins stood staggering and devi∣sing of some probable fiction, the Fiscal holp him, and said, Should not two Ja∣poners have gone to each Point of the Castle, and two to the Governours Chamber door; and when the hurly∣burly had been without, and the Go∣vernour coming to see what was the matter, the Japoners to have killed him? Here one that stood by, said to the Fiscal, Do not tell him what he should say, but let him speak of himself. Whereupon the Fiscal, without attending the answer to his former question, asked what the Japoners should have had for their re∣ward. Collins answered, 1000 Ryals apiece. Lastly, he asked him, when this Plot should have been effected. Where∣unto, although he answered him nothing, (not knowing what to devise upon the sudden) yet he was dismissed, and very glad to come clear of the Torture, though with certain belief that he should dye for this his confession.

Next was Samuel Colson brought in,* being newly Page  15 arrived from Hitto, as is before touched, and was the same day brought to the Torture, who, for fear of the pain where∣with he saw Collins come out, in such a case, that his eyes were almost blown out of his head with the Torment of water; chose rather to confess all they asked him: and so was quickly dis∣missed, coming out weeping, lamenting, and protesting his innocency.

Then was John Clark,* that came with Colson from Hitto, fetcht in, and a little after was heard (by the rest that were with∣out in the Hall) to cry out amain: They Tortured him with water and with fire, by the space of two hours. The manner of his Torture (as also of John∣sons and Tomsons) was as followeth: First they hoised him up by the hands with a cord on a large door, where they made him fast upon two staples of Iron, fixt on both sides at the top of the door posts, haling his hands one from the other as wide as they could stretch. Be∣ing thus made fast, his feet hung some two foot from the ground; which also they stretcht asunder as far as they Page  16 would retch, and so made them fast be∣neath unto the door-trees on each side. Then they bound a cloath about his neck and face so close, that little or no water could go by. That done, they poured the water softly upon his head, untill the cloath was full up to the mouth and no∣strils, and somewhat higher; so that he could not draw breath, but he must with∣all suck in the water: which being still continued to be poured in softly, forced all his inward parts, came out of his nose, ears, and eyes, and often as it were stifling and choaking him, at length took away his breath, and brought him to a swoun or fainting. Then they took him quickly down, and made him vomit up the water. Being a little recovered, they triced him up again, and poured in the water as before, eftsoons taking him down as he seemed to be stifled. In this manner they handled him three or four several times with water, till his body was swoln twice or thrice as big as be∣fore, his cheeks like great bladders, and his eyes staring and strutting out beyond his forehead: yet all this he bare, with∣out confessing any thing; insomuch as Page  17 the Fiscal and tormentors reviled him, saying that he was a Devil, and no man, or surely was a Witch, at least had some charm about him, or was enchanted, that he could bear so much. Wherefore they cut off his hair very short, as sup∣posing he had some witchcraft hidden therein. Afterwards they hoised him up again as before, and then burnt him with lighted Candles in the bottom of his feet, untill the fat dropt out the Candles; yet then applied they fresh lights unto him. They burnt him also under the elbows, and in the palms of the hands; likewise under the arm pits, un∣till his inwards might evidently be seen. At last when they saw he could of him∣self make no handsome confession, then they led him along with questions of particular circumstances, by themselves framed. Being thus wearied and over∣come by the torment, he answered, yea, to whatsoever they ask'd: whereby they drew from him a body of a Con∣fession to this effect; to wit, That Cap∣tain Towerson had upon New-years day last before, sworn all the English at Am∣boyna to be secret and assistant to a plot Page  18 that he had projected, with the help of the Japoners, to surprize the Castle, and to put the Governour and the rest of the Dutch to Death.

Having thus martyred this poor man, they sent him out by four Blacks: who carried him between them to a Dun∣geon, where he lay five or six dayes, without any Chyrurgion to dress him, untill (his flesh being putrified) great Maggots dropt and crept from him, in a most loathsom and noisom manner. Thus they finished their Sabbath dayes work; and it growing now dark, sent the rest of the English (that came that day from Hitto, and till then attended in the Hall) first to the Smith's shop, where they were loaden with Irons, and then to the same loathsom Dunge∣on, where Clark and the rest were, ac∣companied with the poor Japoners, ly∣ing in the putrefaction of their Tor∣tures.

The next morning being Munday the seventeenth of February, Old Stile, Wil∣liam Griggs, and John Fardo, with cer∣tain Japoners, were brought into the place of examination.

Page  19The Japoners were first cru∣elly tortured to accuse Griggs,* which at last they did: and Griggs, to avoid the like tor∣ture, confessed all that the Fiscal de∣manded. By and by the like also was done by John Fardo,* and other Japoners: but Far∣do himself endured the tor∣ture of water, and at last confessed what∣soever the Fiscal asked him; and so was sent back to prison.

The same day also John Beo∣mont was brought the second time to the Fiscals Chamber;* where one Captain Newport a Dutch mans son (born in England) was used as an Interpreter. William Griggs was also brought in to accuse him; who said, that when the consultation for taking of the Castle, was held, then he (the said Beo∣mont) was present. Beomont denied it with great earnestness and deep Oaths. At last being triced up, and drenched with water till his inwards were ready to crack, he answered affirmatively to all the Fiscals interrogatories: yet as soon as he was let down, he clearly demonstrated to Page  20 Captain Newport, and Johnson a Dutch Merchant, then also present, that these things could not be so. Nevertheless he was forced to put his hand to his con∣fession, or else he must to the torture a∣gain, which to avoid, he subscribed; and so had a great iron bolt and two sha∣ckles rivitted to his legs, and then was carried back to prison.

After this George Sharrock As∣sistant at Hitto,* was called in question; who, seeing how grievously others were martyr∣ed, made his earnest Prayer to God (as since upon his Oath he hath acknowledg∣ed) that he would suffer him to make some such probable lies against himself, as the Dutch might believe, and so he might escape the torment. Being brought to the Rack, the Water provided, and the Candles lighted, he was by the Go∣vernour and Fiscal examined, and charg∣ed with the Conspiracy. He fell upon his knees, and protested his Innocency. Then they commanded him to the Rack, and told him; Unless he would con∣fess, he should be tormented with fire and water to death, and then should be Page  21 drawn by the heels to the Gallows, and there hanged up. He still persisting in this his innocency, the Fiscal bad him be hoised up. Then he craved respite a while and told them, that he was at Hitto, and not in Amboyna, upon New-years day, when the consultation was pretended; neither had been there since November before, as was well known to sundry of the Hollanders themselves, that re∣sided there also with him. Hereupon they commanded him again to the Rack: but he, craving respite as before, now told them, that he had many times heard John Clark (who was with him at Hitto) say, That the Dutch had done them ma∣ny unsufferable wrongs, and that he would be revenged of them: to which end, he had once broken with Captain Towerson, of a Plot. At which word the Fiscal and the rest were attentive, encouraging him to proceed. So he went on, saying, that John Clark had intreat∣ed Captain Towerson that he might go to Maccasser, there to consult and advise with the Spaniards to come with Gallies, and rob the small Factories of Amboyna and Seran, when no ships were there. Page  22 Here they asked him, what Cap. Towerson said to this, He answered, that Captain Towerson was very much offended with Clark for the motion; and from thence∣forth could never abide him. Hereupon the Fiscal called him Rogue, and said he prated all from the matter, and should go to the torture. He craved favour a∣gain, and began another tale; to wit, That upon Twelf-day then last past, John Clark told him at Hitto, that there was a practise to take the Castle of Am∣boyna; and asked him, whether he would consent thereunto. Whereupon he de∣manded of Clark, whether Captain Towerson knew of any such matter. Which, Clark affirming; then he (the said Sharrock) said, that he would do as the rest did. Then the Fiscal asked him, what time the consultation was held: He answered, In November last. The Fiscal said, That could not be: for, the consultation was upon New-years day. The Prisoner said as before in the beginning, that he had not been in Am∣boyna since the first of December, till now that he was brought thither. Why then quoth the Fiscal, have you belied your Page  23 self? whereto the Prisoner resolutely an∣swered, that all that he had spoken touch∣ing any treason, was false, and feigned onely to avoid torment. Then went the Fiscal out into another room to the Go∣vernour, and anon returned, and sent Sharrock, unto the Prison again. The next day he was called again, and a writing presented him; wherein was framed a formal confession of his last conference with Clark at Hitto, touch∣ing the plot to take the Castle of Amboy∣na: which being read over to him, the Fiscal asked him, whether it were true, or no. He answered, No, Why then, said the Fiscal, did you confess it? He answered, for fear of Torment. The Fiscal and the rest in a great rage told him he lied; his mouth had spoken it, and it was true, and therefore he should subscribe it. Which as soon as he had done, he fell presently into a great passi∣on, charging them bitterly to be guilty of the innocent blood of himself and the rest, which they should look to answer for at the day of Judgment: withall he grap∣pled with the Fiscal, and would have stopped him from carrying in the con∣fession Page  24 to the Governour, with whom he also craved to speak; but was instantly laid hold on, and carried away to pri∣son.

William Webber,* being next examined, was told by the Fis∣cal, that John Clark had confes∣sed him to have been at Amboy∣na on New years day, and sworn to Cap∣tain Towerson's plot, &c. All which he denied, alledging, he was that day at Larica: yet being brought to the tor∣ture, he then confessed, he had been at the consultation at Amboyna, upon New-years day, with all the rest of the circum∣stances in order as he was asked. He al∣so further told them, he had received a Letter from John Clark; after which was a Postscript, excusing his brief writing at that time, for that there was great business in hand. But one Renier a Dutch Merchant, then standing by, told the Governour, that upon New-years day, the time of this pretended consultation, Webber and he were merry at Larica. So the Governour left him and went out. But the Fiscal held on upon the other point, touching the Postscript of Clark's Page  25 Letter, urging him to shew the same. Which when he could not do, though often terrified with the torture, he gave him respite; promising to save his life, if he would produce that Letter.

Then was Captain Tower∣son brought to the examina∣tion,* and shewed what others had confessed of him. He deeply protesting his innocency, Samuel Colson was brought to confront him: who being told, that unless he would now make good his former confession against Captain Towerson, he should to the Torture, coldly re-affirmed the same, and so was sent away. They also brought William Griggs and John Fardo to justifie their former confessions to his face. Captain Towerson seriously charged them, that as they would answer it at the dreadfull day of Judgement, they should speak nothing but the truth. Both of them instantly fell down upon their knees before him, praying him for Gods sake to forgive them, and saying further openly before them all, that whatsoever they had formerly confessed, was most false, and spoken only to avoid Page  26 torment. With that the Fiscal and the rest offered them again to the torture: which they would not endure, but then affirmed their former confessions to be true.

When Colson (who had accused Cap∣tain Towerson before) was required to set his hand to his confession, he asked the Fiscal, upon whose head he thought the sin would lie: whether upon his that was constrained to confess what was false, or upon the constrainers? The Fiscal, after a little pause upon this que∣stion, went in to the Governour then in another room; but anon returning, told Colson he must subscribe it: which he did; yet withall made this protestation: Well, quoth he, you make me to accuse my self and others of that which is as false, as God is true: for, God is my witness, I am as innocent as the child new born.

Thus have they examined all that belong to the English Company in the several Factories of the Island of Amboyna.

*The one and twentieth of February, they examined Page  27 John Wetheral, Factor at Cambello in the Island of Seran. He confessed, he was at Amboyna upon New-years day: but for the consultation, where∣of he was demanded, he said he knew of no other, but touching certain cloath of the English Company, that lay in the Factories rotting and worm-eaten, which they advised together how to put off to the best avail of their Imployers. The Governour said, they questioned him not about cloath, but of Treason: whereof when he had protested his inno∣cency, he was for that time dismissed. But the next day he was sent for again, and Captain Towerson brought to con∣front and accuse him, having before (it seems) confessed somewhat against him. But Mr. Towerson spake now these words only: Oh, Mr. Wetheral, Mr. We∣theral, speak the truth, and nothing but the truth, as God shall put into your heart. So Captain Towerson was put out again, and Wetheral brought to the tor∣ture of water with great threats; if wa∣ter would not make him confess, fire should. He prayed them to tell him what he should say, or to write down Page  28 what they would, he would subscribe it. They said, he needed no Tutor; they would make him confess of himself. But when they had triced him up four several times, and saw he knew not what to say, then they read him other mens confessi∣ons, and asked him from point to point, as they had done others: and he still answered, Yea, to all.

Next was called in John Powl,* Wetherals assistant at Cambello: but he, proving that he was not at Amboyna since November, (save now when he was brought thi∣ther prisoner) and being spoken for by one John Joost, who had long been well acquainted with him, was dismissed with∣out torture.

Then was Thomas Lad∣brook,* servant to Wetheral and Powl at Cambello, brought to be examined: but proving that he was at Cambello at the time of the pretended consultation, and serving in such quality, as that he was never ac∣quainted with any of the Letters from the Agent of Amboyna, he was easily and quickly dismissed.

Page  29Ephraim Ramsey was also examined upon the whole pre∣tended conspiracy,* and parti∣cularly questioned concerning Captain Welden the English Agent in Banda; but denying all, and proving that he was not at Amboyna at New-years tide, being also spoken for by John Joost, was dismissed, after he had hanged in the Rack a good while, with irons upon his legs, and the cloath about his mouth.

Lastly, John Sadler,* ser∣vant to William Griggs at Larica, was examined; and being found to have been absent from Amboyna at New-years tide, when Griggs and others were there, was dismissed.

Thus have we all their examinations, tortures, and confessions, being the work of 8. dayes, from the 15. to the 23. of February. After which was two dayes re∣spite before the sentence. John Powl, being himself acquitted as before said, went to the prison to visit John Fardo, one of those that had accused Capt. Towerson. To him Fardo religiously protested his innocen∣cy; but especially his sorrow for accusing Mr. Towerson: for, said he, the fear of death Page  30 doth nothing dismay me; for, God (I trust) will be merciful to my soul, according to the innocency of my cause. The only matter that troubleth me, is, that through fear of Torment I have accused that honest and godly man Cap∣tain Towerson, who (I think in my con∣science) was so upright and honest to∣wards all men, that he harboured no ill will to any, much less would attempt any such business as he is accused of. He further said, he would before his death receive the Sacrament, in acknow∣ledgement that he had accused Captain Towerson falsly and wrongfully, only through fear of Torment.

The five and twentieth of February, old stile, all the prisoners, as well the English, as the Portugal and the Japoners, were brought into the great Hall of the Castle, and there were solemnly con∣demned, except John Powl, Ephraim Ramsey, John Sadler, and Thomas Lad∣brook, formerly acquitted, as afore∣said.

Captain Towerson having been (during all his imprisonment) kept apart from the rest, so that none of them could come Page  31 to speak with him; writ much in his Chamber, (as some of the Dutch re∣port) but all was suppressed, save only a Bill of Debt, which one Th. Johnson, a free Burgher, got of him by favour of his Keepers for acknowledgement, that the English Company owed him a cer∣tain sum of money. In the end of this Bill he writ these words: Firmed by the Firm of me Gabriel Towerson, now ap∣pointed to dye guiltless of any thing that can be justly laid to my charge. God forgive them their guilt; and receive me to his mercy. Amen. This Bill being brought to Mr. Welden, the English Agent at Banda, he paid the money, and received in the acknowledgement.

William Griggs (who had before ac∣cused Captain Towerson) writ these words following in his Table-book: We, whose names are here specified; John Beomont Merchant of Loho, William Griggs Merchant of Larica, Abel Price Chyrurgion of Amboyna, Robert Brown Tailor, which do here lie Prisoners in the Ship Rotterdam, being apprehended for Conspiracy, for blowing up the Castle of Amboyna: we being judged to death this Page  32 fifth of March, Anno 1622. which we through torment were constrained to speak, that which we never meant, nor once ima∣gined, the which we take upon our deaths and salvation: they tortured us with that extreme torment of fire and water, that flesh and blood could not endure: and this we take upon our deaths, that they have put us to death guiltless of our accusation. So therefore we desire, that they that shall un∣derstand this; that our Imployers may un∣derstand these wrongs, and that your selves would have a care to look to your selves: for their intent was to have brought you in also; they ask'd concerning you; which if they had tortured us, we must have con∣fessed you also. And so farewell: written in the dark.

This Table-book was afterwards de∣livered to Mr. Welden aforenamed, by one that served the Dutch.

Samuel Colson also, another that accu∣sed Captain Towerson, writ as followeth in the waste leaves of a book, where∣in were bound together the Common-Prayers, the Psalms, and the Cate∣chism.

Page  33 In one page thus;

On the other side, upon the first page of the Catechism, is thus written:

Page  34 In the beginning of the Psalms, and in the leaf so referred unto, is thus written; viz.

Yet in another page were these words;

This Book he delivered to one that •erved the Hollanders, who sowed it up •n his Bed, and afterward, at his oppor∣•unity, delivered it to Mr. Welden be∣•ore named.

Page  36All these said writings are yet extant under the hands of the several parties, well known to their friends here in Eng∣land.

The six and twentieth of February, Stilo veteri, the Prisoners were all brought into the great Hall of the Castle (except Captain Towerson and Emanuel Tomson) to be prepared for death by the Mini∣sters. The Japoneers now all in general, as some of them had done before in par∣ticular, cryed out unto the English, say∣ing; Oh you English men, where did we ever in our lives eat with you, talk with you, or (to our remembrance) see you? The English answered, Why then have you accused us? The poor men, perceiving they were made believe each had accused others, before they had so done indeed; shewed them their tortur∣ed bodies, and said, If a stone were thus burnt, would it not change his Nature, how much more we that are Flesh and Blood?

Whilst they were all in the Hall, Cap¦tain Towerson was brought up into the place of examination and two great Jar• of water carried after him. What h• Page  [unnumbered] there did or suffered was unknown to the English without: but it seemeth they made him then to underwrite his confessi∣on. After supper John Powl, Ephraim Ramsey, Thomas Ladbrook, and John Sad∣ler, who were found not guilty, as afore∣said, were taken from the rest, and put into another room. By and by also were Samuel Colson, and Edward Collins brought from the rest; into the room where Emanuel Tomson lay: The Fiscal told them, it was the Governours mer∣cy, to save one of them three: and it be∣ing indifferent to him, which of them, were the man, it was his pleasure they should draw lots for it, which they did, and the free lot fell to Edward Collins; who then was carried away to the Cham∣ber, where John Powl, and the rest that were quit, lodged, and Samuel Colson back into the Hall. Anon also John Beo∣mont was brought out of the Hall into the Chamber, where John Powl, and the rest of the acquitted persons were, and was told, that he was beholding to Pe∣ter Johnson the Dutch Merchant of Loho, and to the Secretary; for they two had begged his life.

Page  [unnumbered]So then there remained in the Hall ten of the English; for Captain Towerson and Emanuel Tomsom (as is said before) were kept in several rooms apart from the rest. To these that remained in the Hall, came the Dutch Ministers, who telling them how short a time they had to live, ad∣monished and exhorted them to make their true confessions; for it was a dan∣gerous and desperate thing, to dissem∣ble at such a time. The English still pro∣fessed their innocency, and prayed the Ministers that they might all receive the Sacraments, as a seal of the forgiveness of their sins; and withal, thereby to confirm their last profession of their in∣nocency. But this would by no means be granted. Whereupon Samuel Colson said thus unto the Ministers; You ma∣nifest unto us the danger of dissimulation in this case. But tell us, if we suffer guiltless, being otherwise also true belie∣vers in Christ Jesus, What shall be our reward? The Preacher answered, By how much the clearer you are, so much the more glorious shall be your resur∣rection: With that word, Colson start∣ed up, imbraced the Preacher, and gave Page  39 him his purse, with such money as he had in it, saying; Domine, God bless you: tell the Governour, I freely for∣give him; and I intreat you, to exhort him, to repent of his bloody Tragedy, wrought upon us poor innocent souls. Here all the rest of the English signified their consent to this Speech. Then spake John Fardo to the rest, in presence of the Ministers, as followeth: My Country∣men, and Brethren, all that are here with me, condemned to die; I charge you all, as you will answer it at Gods Judgment Seat, if any of you be guilty of this mat∣ter, whereof we are condemned, dis∣charge your Consciences, and confess the truth for satisfaction of the World. Hereupon Samuel Colson spake with a loud voice, saying, According to my in∣nocency in this treason, so Lord pardon all the rest of my sins: and if I be guilty thereof more or less, let me never be partaker of thy heavenly joys. At which words, every one of the rest cried out, Amen for me, Amen for me, good Lord. This done, each of them knowing whom he had accused, went one to another beg∣ging forgiveness for their false accusati∣on, Page  40 being wrung from them by the pains or fear of torture. And they all freely forgave one another: for none had been so falsly accused, but he him∣self had accused another as falsly. In particular, George Sharrock (who sur∣vived to relate this nights passage) kneel∣ed down to John Clark, whom he had accused of the tale at Hitto above men∣tioned, and craved forgiveness at his hands. Clark freely forgave him, say∣ing; how should I look to be forgiven of God, if I should not forgive you, ha∣ving my self so falsly accused Captain Towerson and others?

After this, they spent the rest of the doleful night in Prayer, singing of Psalms, and comforting one another; though the Dutch that guarded them, offered them wine, bidding them drink Luslick, and drive away the sorrow; according to the custom of their own Nation in the like case, but contrary to the Nature of the English.

Upon the morrow morning, being the Execution day, the 27th. of Februa∣ry, Stilo veteri, John Powl being freed (as is above recited) came into the room Page  41 where the condemned persons were, and found them at Prayer. They all requested him to relate unto their friends in Eng∣land, the innocency of their cause; ta∣king it upon their deaths, that what they had confessed against themselves and o∣thers, touching this crime, was all false, and forced by fear of torture.

The same morning William Webber was called again into the Fiscals room, and there pressed to produce the Letter, which he had before confessed to have re∣ceived from John Clark, in the Postscript whereof some great business was intima∣ted. They promised him his life, if he would deliver or produce them that Let∣ter: which although he did not, nor in∣deed could, yet at last they pardoned him, and sent him to the rest that were saved, and Sharrock with him.

That morning Emanuel Tomson under∣standing that John Beomont was pardon∣ed, made means to have him come and speak with him; which, with much a∣do, he obtained. Beomont found him sitting in a Chamber, all alone in a most miserable fashion; the wounds of his tor∣ture bound up, but the matter and gore-blood Page  42 issuing through the Rollers. He took Mr. Beomont by the hand, and pray∣ed him, when he came into England to do his duty to the Honourable Compa∣ny, his Masters, to Mr. Robinson, and to his Brother Billingsley, and to certifie them of his innocency, which (said he) you your self know well enough.

All things being prepared for the Exe∣cution, the condemned were brought forth of the Hall along by the Chamber where the quit and pardoned were; who stood in the door, to give and take the farewell of their Countrey-men now go∣ing to Execution. Staying a little for this purpose, they prayed and charged those that were saved, to bear witness to their friends in England of their inno∣cency, and that they died not Traitors, but so many innocents, meerly murther∣ed by the Hollanders, whom they prayed God to forgive their blood-thirstiness, and to have mercy upon their own souls.

Being brought into the Yard, their sentence was there read unto them from a Gallery, and then they were thence carried unto the place of Execution, to∣gether Page  43 with nine Japons and a Portugal; not the ordinary and short way, but round about in a long procession, through the Town; the way guarded with five Companies of Soldiers, Dutch and Am∣boyners, and thronged with the Natives of the Island, that (upon the summons given the day before by the sound of the Drum) flocked together to behold this triumph of the Dutch over the English. Samuel Colson had conceived a Prayer in writing, in the end whereof he protest∣ed his innocency: which Prayer he read to his fellows the night before, and now also at the place of Execution devout∣ly pronounced the same; then threw away the paper, which the Gover∣nour caused to be brought to him, and kept it.

Emanuel Tomson told the rest, he did not doubt but God would shew some sign of their innocency; and every one of the rest took it severally upon their death, that they were utterly guiltless; and so one by one, with great cheerfulness suf∣fered the fatal stroke.

The Portugal prayed over his Beads very devoutly, and often kissed the Page  44 Cross; swearing thereupon, that he was utterly innocent of this treason: yet confessed, that God had justly brought this punishment upon him, for that ha∣ving a wife in his own Countrey, he had, by the perswasion of the Dutch Gover∣nour, taken another in that Countrey, his first being yet living.

The Japons likewise (according to their Religion) shut up their last Act with the like profession of their inno∣cency. So there suffered ten English∣men, viz. Captain Gabriel Towerson the Agent of the English at Amboyna, Samuel Colson Factor at Hitto, Emanuel Tomson Assistant at Amboyna, Timothy Johnson Assistant there also, John Wetheral Factor at Cambello, John Clark Assistant at Hitto, William Griggs Factor at Larica, John Fardo Steward of the house, Abel Price Chyrurgion, and Robert Brown Tailor.

The Portugal also suffered with them: his name was Augustin Perez; he was born at Bengala.

The names of the Japoneses that suffer∣ed (if any be curious to know them) were as followeth:

Page  45
• Hititso all born at Firando.
• Tsiosa all born at Firando.
• Sinsa all born at Firando.
• Sidney Migiel born at Nagansacque.
• Pedro Congie born at Nagansacque.
• Thome Corea born at Nagansacque.
• Quiandayo native of Coraets.
• Tsabinda of Tsoncketgo.
• Zanchoe of Fisien.

Besides these, there were two other Japoneses; the one named Soysimo, born at Firando; and the other Sacoube, of the same place: the former of which being tortured, confessed both to have been privy to this pretended treason, and to have offered his service unto the Eng∣lish, to aid them in taking of the Castle: and the latter confessed to have had knowledge of the consultation of the other Japons to this purpose. But neither of them was executed, nor so much as condemned: The reason whereof was not known to the English that were saved.

They had prepared a cloath of black Velvet, for Captain Towerson's body to fall upon; which being stained and Page  46 defaced with his blood, they afterwards put to the account of the English Com∣pany.

At the instant of the execution, there arose a great darkness, with a sudden and violent gust of wind and tempest; whereby two of the Dutch Ships, riding in the Harbour, were driven from their Anchors, and with great labour and diffi∣culty saved from the Rocks. Within a few dayes after, one William Danckin, who had told the Governour, That Ro∣bert Brown, the English Tailor, had a few Moneths before told him, he hoped that within six Moneths the English should have as much to do in the Castle of Am∣boyna, as the Dutch: This fellow, coming upon an Evening to the Grave where the English were buried, being all (save Captain Towerson) in one pit, fell down upon the Grave; and having lien there a while, rose up again stark mad, and so continued two or three dayes together, and then dyed. Forthwith also fell a new sickness at Amboyna, which swept away about a thousand people Dutch and Am∣boyners: in the space wherein, there usually dyed not above thirty at other Page  47 seasons. These signs were by the sur∣viving English, referred to the confident prediction of Emanuel Tomson above∣named, and were by the Amboyners in∣terpreted as a token of the wrath of God for this barbarous Tyranny of the Hollanders.

The next day after the execution, be∣ing the eight and twentieth of February, Stilo veteri, was spent in Triumph for the new General of the Dutch then pro∣claimed, and in publick rejoycing for the deliverance from this pretended Treason. The day following, being the first of March, John Beomont, George Sharrock, Edward Collins, and William Webber, were brought to the Governour; who told Webber, Beomont, and Sharrock, that they were pardoned in Honour of the new General, and Collins, that he was to go to Jaccatra, there to stand to the favour of the General. So the Go∣vernour made them drink Wine with him, and courteously dismissed them: willing them to go and consult with the rest that were saved, who were fit to be placed in the several Factories. Which done, and their opinions reported to the Page  48 Governour, he accordingly commanded each to his place; adding, that he would thenceforth take upon him the patro∣nage and Government of the English Companies business. To which purpose, he had within a few dayes past, opened a Letter that came from the English Pre∣sident at Jaccatra, directed to Captain Towerson; being (as he said) the first English Letter that ever he intercepted; further saying, that he was glad that he found by that Letter, that the English at Jaccatra were innocent touching this business.

The Governour and Fiscal having thus made an end at Amboyna, dispatch∣ed themselves for Banda: where they made very diligent enquiry against Cap∣tain Welden, the English Agent there; yet found no colour nor shadow of guilt to lay hold on: but at last entertained him with courteous speeches, professing to be very glad, that they found him, as well as the English at Jaccatra, to be without suspicion of this Treason, (as they term it.) Captain Welden, per∣ceiving the disorder and confusion of the English Companies affairs at Amboyna, Page  49 by means of this dealing of the Dutch; forthwith hired a Dutch Pinnace at Banda, and passed to Amboyna: where, instantly upon his arrival, he re-called the Companies servants, sent (as before) by the Dutch Governour to the upper Factories.

Having enquired of them, and the rest that were left at Amboyna, of the whole proceedings lately passed, he found, by the constant and agreeing relation of them all, that there was no such Treason of the English as was pretended: as also understanding what strict command the Governour had given to the surviving English, not once to talk or confer with the Countrey people concerning this bloody business, although the said Coun∣trey people every day reproached them with Treason, and a bloody intention to have massacred the Natives, and to have ripped up the bellies of women with child, and such like stuff; wherewith the Dutch have possessed the poor Vul∣gar, to make the English odious unto them. The said Mr. Welden therefore finding it to sort neither with the honour, nor profit of the English Company, his Page  50 Masters, to hold any longer residence in Amboyna, he took the poor remnant of the English along with him, in the said hired Pinnace for Jaccatra; whither the Governour had sent John Beomont and Edward Collins before, as men condemn∣ed, and left to the mercie of the Gene∣ral,

When this heavy news of Amboyna came to Jaccatra and the English there, the President forthwith sent to the Gene∣ral of the Dutch, to know by what Au∣thority the Governour of Amboyna had thus proceeded against the English, and how he and the rest of the Dutch there at Jaccatra, did approve these proceed∣ings. The Governour returned for an∣swer, that, The Governour of Amboy∣na's Authority was derived from that of the Lords States General of the Uni∣ted Neatherlands; under whom he had lawful Jurisdiction both in Criminal and Civil causes, within the district of Am∣boyna; further, that such proceeding was necessary against Traitors, such as the English Executed at Amboyna might ap∣pear to be by their own confessions: a Co∣py whereof he therewith sent to the Eng∣lish Page  51 President; who sent the same back to be Authentickly certified, but recei∣ved it not again.

Hitherto hath been recited the bare and naked Narration of the Progress and passage of this action, as it is taken out of the Depositions of six several English Factors; whereof four were condemn∣ed, and the other two acquitted in this Process of Amboyna: all, since their re∣turn into England, examined upon their Oaths in the Admiralty Court. The par∣ticular of Captain Towerson's, as also of Emanuel Tomson's examinations and an∣swers, are not yet come to light, by rea∣son that these two were kept apart from all the rest, and each alone by himself; nor any other of the English suffered to come to speak with them, except onely that short Farewell, which John Beomont took of Tomson, the morning before the Execution before mentioned. The like obscurity is yet touching the Examinati∣ons and Answers of divers of the rest that are Executed; being, during their im∣prisonment, so strictly lookt to, and watched by the Dutch, that they might not talk together, nor mutually relate their miseries.

Page  52But because the Hollanders defend their own proceedings by the confessions of the parties executed, acknowledging se∣verally under their hands, that they were guilty of the pretended crime; it will not be amiss to recollect and recall unto this place, as it were unto one sum and total, certain circumstances dispersed in several parts of this Narration; where∣by, as well the innocency of the English, as the unlawful proceedings against them may be manifested.

First, Therefore it is to be remembred, that the Japons were apprehended, exa∣mined, and tortured three or four dayes, before the English were attached; and the same as well of their apprehension, as torture, was rise and notorious in the Town of Amboyna, and the parts ad∣joyning. Tomsom, in this interim, and the very first day of the examination of the Japon, went to the Castle to ask leave of the Governour to land some Rice, and brought back the news with him to the English house of the cruel handling of these poor Japons. This had been Item enough to the English, if they had been guilty, to shift for themselves: Page  53 whereto also they had ready means by the Curricurries or small Boats of the Amboyners, which lie along the Strand in great number, wherewith they might easily have transported themselves to Se∣ran, to Bottom, or to Maccasser, out of the reach and Jurisdiction of the Dutch: but in that they fled not in this case, it is a very strong presumption, that they were as little privy to any treason of their own, as suspicious of any treache∣rous train laid for their bloods.

In the next place let it be considered, how impossible it was for the English to atchieve this pretended enterprize.

The Castle of Amboyna is of a very great strength (as is before declared;) the Garrison therein two or three hundred men, besides as many more of their free Burgers in the Town. What their care and circumspection in all their Forts is, may appear not onely by the quick A∣larm they now took at the foolish questi∣on of the poor Japon, made to the Sen∣tinel, above recited; but also by that which a little before happened at Jacca∣tra, where one of their Soldiers was shot to death for sleeping in the Watch.

Page  54Durst ten English men (whereof not one a Soldier) attempt any thing upon such a strength and vigilancy? As for the assistance of the Japons, they were but ten neither, and all un-armed, as well as the English: For, as at the seizure of the English house, all the provision therein found, was but three swords, two Muskets, and half a pound of powder: so the Japons (except when they are in service of the Castle, and there armed by the Dutch) are allowed to have no Arms, but onely a Catan, a kind of short sword: and it is forbidden to all the Dutch, upon great penalty, to sell any hand-gun, powder or bullets to the Ja∣pons or Amboyners. But let it be imagin∣ed, that these twenty persons English and Japons, were so desperate as to ad∣venture the exploit; how should they be able to master the Dutch in the Castle, or to keep possession when they had got∣ten it? what second had they? There was neither Ship nor Pinnace of the Eng∣lish in the Harbor. All the rest of the Ja∣pons in the Island, were not twenty per∣sons, and not one English more. The nearest of the rest of the English were at Page  55 Banda, forty Leagues from Amboyna; and those but nine persons, all after∣wards cleared by the Governour and Fis∣cal themselves, from all suspition of this pretended crime, as were also the rest of the English at Jaccatra.

On the other side, besides the strength of the Castle and Town of Amboyna, the Hollanders have three other strong Ca∣stles, well furnished with Soldiers in the same Island, and at Cambello near adjoin∣ing. They had then also in the road of Amboyna, eight Ships and Vessels, name∣ly, the Rotterdam of 1200 Tun, the Ʋ∣nicorn of 300 Tun, the Free-mans Ves∣sel of 100 Tun, the Calck of 60 Tun, Captain Gamals Junek of 40 Tun, the Flute of 300 Tun, the Amsterstam of 1400 Tun, and a small Pinnace of about 60 Tun; and all these well furnished with Men and Ammunition. It is true, that the Stories do record sundry valiant and hardy enterprizes of the English Nation, and Holland is witness of some of them, yea, hath reaped the fruit of the English resolution; yet no Story, no Legend scarcely reporteth any such hardiness, ei∣ther of the English or others, That so few Page  56 persons, so naked of all provisions and supplies, should undertake such an adventure upon a counter-party, so well and abundantly fitted at all points.

But let it be further granted, that they might possibly have overcome all these difficulties; yet to what end and pur∣pose should they put themselves into such a jeopardy? They knew well enough, that it was agreed between both Companies at home, That the Forts in the Indies should remain respectively in the hands of such, as had possession of them at the date of the Treaty, Anno 1619. and that the same was ratified by the Kings Majesty, and the Lords States General. They knew likewise, and all the world takes knowledge of his Ma∣jesties Religious observation of Peace and Treaty with all his Neighbours, yea, with all the world: what reward then could these English hope for, of this their va∣lour and danger? Certainly none other than that which is expresly provided by the Treaty it self, that is, To be punished as the disturbers of the Common Peace, and Amity of both Nations.

Page  57But let these English men have been as foolish in this Plot as the Hollanders will have them; is it also to be imagined, that they were so graceless, as when they were condemned, and seriously admo∣nished by the Ministers to discharge their consciences, yet then to persist in their dissimulation, being otherwise of such godly behaviour, as to spend the time in Prayer, singing of Psalms, and spiritual comforting one another, which the Dutch would have had them bestow in drink∣ing, to drive away their sorrow? Let Colsons question to the Minister be con∣sidered: his and the rests offer and desire to receive the Sacrament, in sign and token of their innocency; their mutual asking forgiveness for their like false ac∣cusations of one another, forced by the Torture; Tomsons last farewell to Beo∣mont; Colsons prayer, and his writing in his Prayer-book; Fardo's farewell to Powl; also his conjuring exhortation to his fellows, to discharge their consci∣ences, and all their answers thereunto; craving Gods mercy or judgment, ac∣cording to their innocency in this cause; their general and Religious profession of Page  58 their innocency, as to their Countrey∣men, at their last parting with them; and finally, the sealing of this profession with their last breath and blood, even in the very Article of death, and in the stroke of the Executioner. What horri∣ble and unexampled dissimulation were this? If some one or more of them had been so fearfully desperate, yet would not there one amongst ten be found to think of the judgment to come, where∣unto he was then instantly summoned without Essoin, Bail, or Mainprise? What? had they hope of reprieve and life, if they kept their countenance to the last? Yet what hope had Tomson and the rest, when Captain Towerson's head was off? Nay, what desire had Tomson and Clark to live, being so mangled and martyred by the Torture? They were executed one by one, and every one seve∣ral took it upon his death, that he was guiltless.

Now to blanch and smooth over all this rough and Barbarous proceeding; it is here given out, that the Governour and Fiscal found such evidence of the Plot, and dealt so evenly in the process, Page  59 that they spared not their own people; having used some of their Native Hollan∣ders, partakers of this treason, in the same manner as they did the English. But this, as well by the Relation here truly and faithfully set down, grounded upon the sworn Testimony of six credi∣ble witnesses, as also by other sufficient reports of divers, (lately come out of those parts) appeareth to be a meer tale, not once alledged by any in the Indies in many moneths after the Exe∣cution, but only invented and dispersed here, for a Fucus and a fair colour upon the whole cause, and to make the world believe, that the ground of this Barba∣rous and Tyrannous proceeding was a true crime, and not the unsatiable cove∣tousness of the Hollanders, by this cruel treachery to gain the sole trade of the Molluccos, Banda and Amboyna, which is already become the event of this bloody process.

To adde hereunto by way of aggra∣vation, will be needless; the fact is so full of odious and barbarous inhuma∣nity, executed by Hollanders upon the English Nation, in a place where both Page  60 lived under terms of Partnership and great amity, confirmed by a most solemn Treaty.

Thus you have had an account of the great misery inflicted upon defenceless mortals, the English, by their fellow Creatures, yea pretended Friends and Allies, the Dutch; a misery indeed as great as their malice could invent, or cruelty pursue and practise. For 'tis too probably to be fear'd, by their own contrived accusations imposed upon, and extorted from the innocent Sufferers, that their cruelty reached not only to the transitory destruction of their frail bo∣dies, but to the eternal ruine also of their immortal souls.

A Tyranny so execrable, that Heaven would not withhold a severe and speedy Vengeance upon the Authors and Actors of it; for thereupon, First, King James and King Charles the First, excepted those Murders from the Indempnities that passed in those times between us and the Hollanders. Secondly, a sudden Hurricane or terrible Tempest did much dammage to the Dutch Ships in the Haven of Amboyna, about the very time Page  61 of this horrid Execution. Thirdly, the first informer against the English, fell down as dead upon the very place where the murder'd men were buried, rising again distracted, in which condition he continued till his dying day. Fourthly, in the year 1630. eighteen Dutchmen (whereof three were guilty of the Massa∣cre at Amboyna) supping at Frankford in their way to Strasburgh, boasted how they served our Nation; which one in the company noting, and relating it to two English Captains then in the German Wars, whose Kindred had suffered there; the Captains laying in Ambush for the Hollanders with a Troop of Horse, took them and commanded them to prepare for death; upon which the Dutch sub∣missively laid their Treasure at their dis∣posal, hoping thereby to redeem their lives; but they resolutely replied, your Treasure we seek not, but you must die, for that our Countrymen and Friends you murder'd at Amboyna: and so hang∣ing up one Johnson the chief Amboynist, and giving the rest leave, by casting the Dice, to try their fate which of them should bear the News of this to Holland, Page  62 they dispatch'd all but him, whom they sent home to relate the certainty of Di∣vine vengeance, and assure his Country∣men, that doubtless there is a God that judgeth the Earth.

They indeed promised before, the year 1625. but never made any suitable satisfaction for these injuries, nor resto∣red to us any of those Islands of Spices that they had taken from us; but added to their insolencies a strict Order against all free Trade to Flanders, monopolizing it to themselves; and indeed where∣ever they have seen any advantage, by cunning, force or fraud, without any con∣sideration of Right, League, Humanity or Religion, they have endeavoured to prosecute their designs.

This cruelty of the Dutch against the English is much more horrible, if consi∣dered with those aggravating circum∣stances that attend it, for when England was newly recover'd from Popery, and unsetled, when engaged in Ireland and the Countries about, when govern'd by a Woman, when threatned from Spain, did then relieve the distressed States, espoused their quarrel, and ventur'd Page  63 their lives and fortunes in their cause. Yea, so great was the endearment, that they seemed but one Nation, being con∣stantly entertain'd with the affection of Brethren, the love of Friends and the re∣spects of Neighbours and Allies.