The history of the bucaniers being an impartial relation of all the battels, sieges, and other most eminent assaults committed for several years upon the coasts of the West-Indies by the pirates of Jamaica and Tortuga, both English & other nations : more especially the unparallel'd atchievements of Sir H.M. / made English from the Dutch copy ; written by J. Esquemeling, one of the bucaniers ; very much corrected from the errours of the original by the relations of some English gentlemen that then resided in those parts.

THE Second Part.

CHAP. I.

SOon after Captain Morgan arriv'd at Jamaica, where the old trade of Cup∣ping and Canning, and Drabbing, and Di∣cing had gone so briskly forward, that both Officers and Soldiers were reduc'd to their accustom'd state of Indigency, that they were very importunate for new Invasions and Exploits, to satisfy the cra∣ving hunger that began to gnaw their Pockets. By this means the first care of procuring men was soon over. Notice therefore being given of the Design, and the Rendevouze appointed upon the South∣side of the Island of Tortuga, the Sons of Fortune flock'd from all parts to put themselves under the Captains Conduct,

and to be in readiness also against the time appointed, which was the 24th of October, 1670.

The Captain failed not to be punctual to his appointment, and came in his own Ship to the Port, called Port Couillon, over against Cow-Island. There they concluded to send four Ships, and one Boat over to the Continent, to rifle some of the Towns and Villages, and get all the Maiz they could gather. To that purpose they set sail for the Continent toward the River de la-Hacha, with a de∣sign to plunder a small Village called Ron∣cheria. Another party was sent to hunt in the Woods, who killed a vast number of Beasts, and salted them. The rest of the Company remain'd in the Ships to clean, and rigg them out to Sea.

CHAP. II. Their Success in the River de la Hacha.

AFter this the four Ships, and one Boat steer'd their course within sight of the River de la Hacha. Where an unlucky Calm gave the Inhabitants time to prepare for the Entertainment of the Sea-Hectors, or at least to hide the best of their goods, that they might be in a better readiness to retire, when they found themselves overmatch'd. But such was Fortunes kindness, that what they went to seek, chopp't into their Mouths. For at the same time there happened to be in the River a very considerable Vessel sent from Cartagena to load Maiz, which was just ready to return as the Sea-Hectors came. This Ship they took with a wet finger, with all the Seamen, who in vain endeavour'd to escape. The next morning by break of day they drew near the shore,

and landed their Men, though the Spani∣ards made a stout resistance from a batte∣ry rais'd on that side, where of necessity they were to land. But they were not to be repuls'd by Batteries, that were Batte∣ry proof, so that the Spaniards were forc'd to retreat to a Village, whither the Sea-Hectors pursu'd them. There the Spani∣ards rally'd again, and stood to it like Sons of Priam, but finding the Sons of Hector too hard for 'em, they were forc'd to betake themselves to the Woods.

The next day the Sea-Hectors percei∣ving the Spaniards fled, pursu'd as far as possibly they could, and overtaking a Party of unfortunate Diego's, took them all Prisoners. These they Catechized ac∣cording to their wonted mercy, to disco∣ver where they had hid their goods, which brought some that could not endure pain so well as others, to auricular Confession. Insomuch that in 15 days, they had got se∣veral Prisoners, great store of Plate, and moveable Goods, with other things, which they made no scruple to carry away. But not so contented, they dispatch'd some of their Prisoners to barter for Ransom-mony; to which it was answer'd, they had no Plate, but they would give 'em as much Maiz as they could afford; Thereupon they conjobbl'd together for

4000 bushels of Maiz, for sometimes they thought it as convenient to provide for the Gut, as well as for the Pocket.

They had been now absent five whole weeks together, which made the Com. in chief almost despair of their return, and to be in some fears lest they should be fallen into the hands of their Friends the Spaniards. But when he saw the Ships return, and one more then had been sent out; there was not only joy in the chief Commanders heart, but the whole Com∣pany with their loud Acclamations gave the Sky to understand their universal glad∣ness, which was much augmented when they found 'em laiden with Maiz, and so many other good things. So that now they began to look upon themselves again as thriving men.

After this the Commander in chief di∣vided the Maiz, and the Flesh proportio∣nably to every Ship, and then having ta∣ken a view of every Ship, to see that it was in good order and trim, he steered a∣way for Cape Tiburon, where he met with some other Ships come from Jamaica to join their Forces in this splendid Expe∣dition; so that now the whole Fleet con∣sisted of 37 Ships, mann'd with 2000 fighting men, besides Seamen and Boys. And now wo be to somebody, for great

storms fall heavy. The Admiral was mounted with 22 great Guns, and six small ones, the rest carried some 20, some 18, others 16, and the smallest at least four. It would have made any mans heart ake that had any kindness for the Spanish Dominions, to see such a cloud hang over their heads. And certainly it must be a blessed time in the Infernal Re∣gions, when Hell was so rak'd, and the Devil scumm'd.

The Commander in chief finding him∣self furnished with such a considerable Fleet, divided the whole into two Squa∣drons, appointing Officers to each Squa∣dron by itself. And thus you see how Ir∣regularity itself moves upon the hinges of Regularity.

This being done, he call'd all his Cap∣tains together, and caus'd them to sign certain Articles of common Agreement in the name of the whole. For himself, that he should have the hundredth part of all that was gotten, to himself alone. That every Captain should draw the shares of eight men for the expences of the Ship, besides his own. That the Chirurgion besides his pay, should have 200 pieces of Eight for his Chest of Medicaments; and that every Carpenter should draw a hun∣dred pieces of Eight, besides his common

Salary. Then for recompences and Pen∣sions for the maim'd, they were advanc'd somewhat higher then before, 1500 pieces of Eight, or 15 Slaves for the loss of both Legs. For the loss of both Hands 1800 pieces of Eight or 18 Slaves. For one Leg 600 pieces of Eight, or 6 Slaves. For a hand, the same. For an Eye a hundred pieces of Eight, or one Slave. For him that signaliz'd himself in any Fight, by ta∣king down the Enemies Colours, and putting up their own, or entring a Fort fore-most, 50 pieces of Eight, and that all extraordinary Salaries and Rewards should be paid out of the first purchase that should be taken.

All things thus order'd, three places were propounded to be attack'd, Cartage∣na, Panama, or Santa Cruiz. But the fatal Lot fell upon Panama, as being accounted the richest of the three. But not know∣ing the Avenues to it, they thought it re∣quisite first to take St. Katherines in their way, there to furnish themselves with Guides, in regard there are many Out∣laws in that place, who are very expert in the knowledge of that Countrey.

CHAP. III. The Island of St. Catherine taken.

FRom Cape Tiburon the Fleet weighed Anchor the 16 of Decemb. 1670. and four days after arriv'd in sight of St. Ca∣therines, at what time the Commander in chief sent one of his nimblest Vessels to view the entry of the River, as also if there were any Ships there to oppose his landing, or acquaint the Inhabitants with his arrival, and thereby prevent his design.

The next morning early the whole Fleet came to an Anchor in a Bay called Augua Grande, near unto the Island where the Spaniard had a Battery mounted with four Pieces of Canon; Captain Morgan having landed his Men, began his March through the Woods, having no other Guides than some of his own men who had been there before, which conducted him to a Fort where the Governour com∣monly kept his residence, but was then quite abandoned; the Spaniards having retired into the lesser Island, which was

so well fortified, that it seemed impreg∣nable.

The Spaniards perceiving the Pirates to approach, began to fire most furiously up∣on them, which made them retreat, and take up their rest upon the Grass for that night, being sorely pinch'd with hunger; about midnight, to add to their affliction, it began to Rain as if the Skys were melt∣ed, which continued till next morning; then after two hours it recommenced again anew rather harder than before, which caused them to cease from ad∣vancing towards the Fort whence the Spa∣niards did continually fire at the Pirates, seeing them approach.

Cold, hunger and nakedness, did now reduce the Pirates to so great straits, that an old scabb'd Horse, which they found in the fields, was acceptable to them, which they kill'd, and with greediness eated. C. M. knowing how much this tended to the prejudice of his Enterprise, and per∣ceiving his men to talk of venturing to their Ships, resolv'd upon a sudden reme∣dy, which was this; he caus'd a Canow to be rigg'd out in all haste, having Co∣lours of Truce display'd, which he sent to the Governour of the Island with this message, That if he surrendred not him∣self and his men within a few hours into

his hand upon mercy, he might certainly expect to be put to the Sword, without Quarters to any; the Governour terrified with such big words, desires two hours to deliberate, which Captain M. granted; a little after the said Governour sent two Canows, with white Colours, and two Persons to treat with him; the substance of their Commission was, that the Go∣vernour had resolv'd to surrender the Island to C. M. not being sufficiently pro∣vided to defend it, desiring only that (to save his credit) he would be pleased to use the formality of a Stratagem of War, the method of which the Governour him∣self proposed to him; C. M. agreed to every one of these Propositions, where∣upon the Messengers taking their leave, returned to give an account of their Ne∣gotiations to the Governour.

Presently after C. M. commanded his whole Fleet immediately to enter the Port, and his men on shoar to be in readi∣ness to assault the Castle of St. Jerom; the Castle taking the Alarum, as was con∣trived betwixt the Governour and C. M. began to fire furiously at the Ships, but without Bullets, as was before agreed; then the Pirates landed, assaulting the lesser Island which they took, with both the Fortresses, forcing the Spaniards in

appearance to flee into the Church for Sanctuary. The Island being taken by this pretended Stratagem, the Souldiers made it their only care to satiate their empty stomachs with the best Victuals they could find; next day they numbred their prisoners, which were found to be four hundred and fifty persons in all, whereof one hundred and ninety were Souldiers belonging to the Garrison; next they took a view of the whole Island, with its Fortresses, which they found to be nine in all, viz. the Forts of St. Jerom, St. Matthew, Santa Teresa, St. Augustine, la Plattaforma de la conceptione, St. Salvador, Plattaforma de Las Artilleros, Santa Cruz; and lastly St. Josephs Fort, all which were indifferently provided with Arms and Ammunition, some of them having twenty great Guns; also in their Store-house were found above thirty thousand pound of Powder, all the Guns were stopp'd and nailed, the Fortresses also demolished, only St. Jerom the Pirates saved to keep their Garrisons in.

Captain Morgan enquired if any Ban∣dits were there from Panama, or Puerto Velo; three being found, were brought before him, who being examined, pre∣tended exactly to know all the Avenues of those parts; he asked if they would

guide him to Panama, which if they did, they should have an equal share of what should be pillaged in that expedition; they readily accepted his proffers, promising all obedience to his commands.

CHAP. IV. The Castle of Chagre taken.

CAp. Mor. having so promising an occa∣sion, thought it not fit to neglect it, whereupon he gave orders that four Ships and one Boat should be provided with all necessaries for taking the Castle of Cha∣gre, seated upon a River of that name; in these Ships he puts 400 men under the command of one Captain Brodely, whose actions of this nature had rendered him famous formerly in those Coasts, this Brodely having received his orders, puts to Sea, and within three days arrives with∣in sight of the said Castle.

This Castle is seated upon a high Moun∣tain, having many advantages both from art and nature, for its strength being for∣tified

on all sides with strong Palisado's, on the Land side it hath four strong Bastions, and two towards the Sea, the South-side is unaccessible, by reason of the asperity of the Mountain; the North-side also is en∣compassed with the broad River; at the foot of the Mountain is a strong Fort which commandeth the entry of the Ri∣ver, with several other singular advanta∣ges of a well fortified place.

The Pirates came to an Anchor about a League from the Castle, which the Spani∣ards perceiving, began to fire briskly at them with the biggest of their Guns; next morning they landed, and marched through a Wood, resolving to attack the Castle on that side, but the difficulties they met with in their march, as also the Spaniards constant firing from the Castle, made them much to fear the success of that enterprise (for on that side of neces∣sity they must make the assault) however, they resolved rather to hazard all, then give it over.

Whereupon they advanced towards the Castle with their Swords in one hand, and Fire-balls in the other; but the Spaniards received them with so much briskness, that after they attempted to scale the walls, they were forced to retreat, and rest themselves until night; then they re∣turned

again to the Assault, and attempted with their Fire-balls to pull down the Pales before the wall; while they were thus disputing the matter with great reso∣lution on both sides, a very remarkable accident happened, which put the Victory in the Pirates hands, for one of them be∣ing shot with an Arrow quite through the body, he with courage pull'd it out at the side of his breast, and wound a little cotton about the head of it, and putting it in his Musket, shot it back again into the Castle, the cotton being kindled by the Powder, set fire to 2 or 3 thatch'd houses that were within the Castle, which not being timely taken notice of, blew up some barrels of Powder, which put the Spaniards into great consternation, not knowing how the fire came, as also not having sufficient water to extinguish it.

The Pirates seeing so favourable an op∣portunity, made use of it, setting fire un∣to the Palizadoes, which gave them great advantage, many breaches having there∣by been made among the Pales, which made the earth fall in great heaps into the Ditch, upon which they climbed up, and got over unto the Castle, notwithstan∣ding of much opposition; for they threw down flaming Pots full of combustible matter, by which several were killed.

The fire thus consuming the Palisado,'s the Pirates prosecuted their intention of being Masters of the Castle, when day appear'd, they saw the earth fallen down from the Palisado's to the Ditch, which put them on even ground with them that were within.

The Pirates seeing the fire thus to rage, thought it their interest (being in hopes to be Masters of all) to extinguish it, for this end they appointed some of their number to do what they could to extin∣guish it by constant shooting at it, while the rest managed the Assault; about noon the Pirates gained a breach, which the Governor himself manfully defended with 25 men; here was hot work with Muskets, Swords, Pikes and Stones, notwithstan∣ding the Pirates forced their way through all difficulties, till at last they were Ma∣sters of the Castle; the Spaniards who were alive, threw themselves headlong in∣to the Sea, disdaining to ask Quarters for their lives, the Governor retreated unto the Corp du Garde, where he intended to defend himself, but at last was kill'd by a Musket shot.

All the men that were found alive, were but 30, whereof 20 were wounded, and this was all that surviv'd of 314, wherewith the Castle was Garrison'd,

them they made Prisoners, compelling them to tell what they knew of their in∣terprises; the Pirats also had a great loss of their men here, for when they came to number them, they found they lost an 100, besides 70 that were wounded.

CHAP. V. Captain Morgan cometh to Cha∣gre, and goeth from thence to Pa∣nama.

THE Pirates having fully possest them∣selves of the Castle of Chagre, pre∣sently acquainted Captain Morgan with it, by a Messenger, who thereupon resolved in all hast to go thither himself in Person; for this end he caused all the Provision that could be found to be imbarked for the use of Chagre, so having set fire to all the Houses and Forts there, except the Castle of St. Terresa; and carrying all the Prisoners with him, he set Sail for the Ri∣ver Chagre, where he arrived upon the eight day from St. Katherine.

The Fleet were so overcome with Joy, seeing the English Colours upon the Castle, that not minding the entry to the River, they lost four Ships (the Ship wherein the Captain himself was, being one) yet they saved all the men, and most of the Goods; the Captain being with great so∣lemnity brought to the Castle, he com∣manded all the Prisoners to be set to work for repairing of the breaches about the Castle: then they seized upon all the Ships and Canows belonging to the Spaniards, and having put a Garrison of 500 men in the Castle, and 150 more in the Ships within the River, he departed towards Panama, the 18th of August, 1670. taking no victuals in his Ships, hoping to be fur∣nished by the Spaniards.

The first day they only failed 6 Leagues, and came to a place called de Los Braccos; here they went on shore to search for Victuals, but nothing could be had, the Spaniards being fled, so that some were forced to dine upon a Pipe of Tobacco.

The next day continuing their Journey, they came to a place called Cruz de Juan Calego, here they were forced to leave their Canows, the River being dryed for want of Rain; but their Guides told them that about two Leagues farther they they might continue their Journey by land; hereupon leaving some Companies

aboard to defend the Boats, the next mor∣ning, being the third day, they all went on shore, but they found the way so deep and dirty, that Captain Morgan thought it fit to transport his men in Canows to a place further up the River, called Cedro Bueno; which accordingly he did.

The fourth day the greatest part of the Pirates marched by land to discover the Ambuscadoes of the Spaniards, being ex∣treamly pinch'd with hunger. About noon their Guide cryed aloud he had found an Ambuscado; this made the Pirates re∣joyce, hoping there to find some Provisi∣on, but coming to the place, found that all were fled, which disappointment vexed them grievously; there nothing could be found but a few leathern bags, all empty, but their hunger was such, that they fell greedily to eating the leather.

Having dispatched this tough feast, and gone a little further, they found another Ambuscado, but as barren as the former, but some of them were so provident as to reserve some pieces of the leather upon which they dined, of this they made their Supper.

The fifth day they marched to a place called Barbacoa, but as empty as any of the former, yet having ranged along, they found two sacks of Meal, with two Jars of

Wine, and some fruits called Platanos this treasure Captain Morgan caused to be equally distributed amongst them who were in greatest necessity, which refreshed them, so that they marched now with grea∣ter courage than ever, till night. Continuing their march thus, part of them by land through the Woods, and part by water in the Canows, upon the sixth day at noon they came to a Plantation, where they found a Barn full of Maiz; they fell to eating of it dry, till they could eat no more; then they distributed it in great quantities among themselves, and so con∣tinued their Journey, but a little further discovering an Ambuscado of Indians, whereupon they threw away their Maiz, hoping there to find plenty of all things, but they found themselves much deceived, for all were fled; only on the other side the water they discovered about an 100 Indians in a company, who like Roes run through the Woods till they were out of sight, but some of the Pirates endeavou∣ring to catch them, were killed by their Arrows; not only so, but they houted at them at a distance, crying, ha Perros a la Savana, a la Savana, ha ye Dogs, go to the Plain, go to the Plain, but night com∣ing on, they took up their rest in the Plain, where sleep was not much minded, some beginning to murmur, blaming the Cap∣tains

bad Conduct, others continuing still resolute; one of their Guides also gave them encouragement, telling them that a short time would bring them where there was somewhat to be reaped.

Next morning being the seventh day, they all made clean their Arms, fixing their fire-locks; which done, and marching till noon, they discovered much smoak a∣rising at a great distance from them, thi∣ther they marched with all possible speed, promising to themselves plenty of good cheer, but when they arrived at the place, found themselves miserably disappointed, for the Spaniards had set fire every man to his House, carrying all things that were eatable with them, excepting some Dogs and Cats, which the Pirates were glad to feed upon.

Yet after a narrow search, they found in the Kings Stables 16 Jarrs of Peru Wine, with a Sack full of Bread, which they no sooner drank of, but they fell sick every man; this made them presently ap∣prehend the Wine had been poisoned, so they gave up themselves all for dead men, which made them take up their rest there for that night: this place is 26 Spanish Leagues from Panama, as also the last place unto which the Boats or Canows can come; which forc'd Captain Morgan

to leave his Canows, and land all his men, though never so weak, but the Canows he sent back again to the place where the Boats were, except one, which he caused to be hidden for carrying of Intelligence, as his affairs required.

Upon the eighth day in the morning Captain Morgan sent 200 men before, to discover what Ambuscado's were laid in the way to Panama; so having marched about ten hours to a place called Quebrad∣da Obscura, here they were welcomed with a shower of 3 or 4 thousand Arrows, not knowing whence they came, or who shot them, this put them in a great surprisal, especially not knowing whence they came, but marching a little further, they perceived some Indians fleeing as fast as they could before them, to take the advan∣tage of another post; notwithstanding there remained a whole troop upon the place, designing to fight the Pirates; which they did with great courage, until their Captain fell, who, although he despaired of life, yet would he ask no Quarters, but endeavouring to raise himself, with undaunted courage laid hold of a Javelin, but was presently shot dead with a Pistol.

Here eight Pirates were kill'd, and ten wounded, the slain they buried, and so went on a little further, where they disco∣vered

a parcel of Indians at a distance, standing upon the top of a Mountain very nigh unto the way by which they were to pass; they sent 50 of their number to see if they could catch any of them, that they might get intelligence from them, but all in vain, for they betook themselves to their heels, and presently after shewed them∣selves at another place, crying, Ala Sava∣na cornudos Peros Engleses, i.e. to the Plain ye Cuckolds, ye English Dogs; at the place there was a Wood, wherein Captain Morgan suspected the Spaniards had placed an Ambuscado, whereupon he sent 200 men to search it; the Spaniards and In∣dians observing the Pirates to descend the Mountain, did so too, seeming as if they intended to Attack them, but being got once into the Wood, they disappeared, and were seen no more.

Night coming on, there fell a great rain, which caused the Pirates march the faster, and seek for shelter to preserve their Arms, but none could be found, for that the Spaniards had set all on fire, only they found some little Hutts for Shep∣herds, which not being capable to hold them all, they put in them a small number of every company, to keep the arms of the rest, and thus they continued till mor∣ning.

Morning being come, they put forward while the fresh air of the morning lasted; after two hours march they discover'd a company of twenty Spaniards, of which they endeavoured to catch some, but could lay hold of none, they suddenly disappea∣ring. At length they came to the top of a high Mountain, whence they discover'd the South-Sea, at which they greatly re∣joyced; having descended the Mountain, they came to a valley, in which were great numbers of Cattle; here now be∣gins a most bloody Massacre amongst these Animals, some killing, another flaying, a third making of fires to roast them, tho very little roasting served them, resemb∣ling rather Canibals eating their raw flesh, then Englishmen.

CHAP. VI. The Spaniards defeated, and the City of Panama taken.

THE Pirates having thus satisfied their hunger, they marched forward. C. M. being much vexed, that for nine days time he could get no information of the condition of his Enemies, sent out 50 men to take (if possible) some Priso∣ners, to be informed by them, but could catch none.

Within a few hours they came within sight of the Steeple of Panama, which they no sooner saw, but they shouted for joy, as if the Victory were already put into their hands. Thus they pitched their Camp for that night high to the City, waiting with much impatience for the dawning of the day, when they intended to attack the City.

The noise of their Drums and Trum∣pets put the City into an Alarum, who thereupon sent out fifty Horse to observe

their motion: Mean while they began to play furiously upon them with their great Guns from the Walls, but with little or no harm to the Pirates, whom they could not conveniently reach. There appeared also to them a Body of two hundred Spa∣niards, at a little distance, who look'd as if they intended to block up all the Pas∣sages, so that none of the Pirates could escape; but they no ways regarding these menaces, open'd every man his Satchel, and began to examine what he had left at noon; and having supp'd as well as they could, laid themselves down upon the Grass, and slept till morning. The day no sooner began to appear, but they draw to Arms, and being drawn up in very good order, marched directly toward the City, but C. M. being advis'd by one of the Guides not to keep the high-way, for fear of Ambuscadoes, chose another way that led thorow the Wood; the Spaniards seeing the Pirates take another way than they expected, were forc'd to leave their Posts, and come out to meet them.

The Spanish Forces consisted of two Squadrons, four Regiments of Foot, and a great many wild Bulls driven by Indians and Negroes for their help; which when the Pirates perceiv'd from the top of an Hill, they were much terrified at their

number, and feared the success very much; but reflecting upon their present straits, and that now of necessity they must either conquer, or die, being out of hope to get Quarters from an Enemy whom they had so incensed, they began to encourage one another to stand to the very last man, ra∣ther than now to yield; so they divided themselves into three Battalions, having sent one of two hundred Buccaniers before them: Thus they descended the Hill to∣ward their Enemy, who had taken the advantage of the ground already; as soon as they approached them, the Spaniards gave a shout, crying, Viva el Rei, God save the King; presently after the Horse began to move; the two hundred Buc∣caniers, every one putting one knee to the ground, fir'd full in their face: Thus the work begins fiercely on both sides. The Spaniards acted very gallantly, both Horse and Foot, but the Pirates having got betwixt the Horse and the Foot, for∣ced them to separate much to their pre∣judice; next they essayed to disorder the Pirates, by driving the wild Cattle among their Ranks; but most of them ran away, being frighted with the noise of the Battle, others were shot dead by the Buccaniers.

The Spanish Horse began at length to

lose their ground, most of them being kill'd, which the Foot perceiving, threw down their Arms, and betook them to their heels; the Pirates being overwea∣ried, were not able to follow, so that they not being able to flee to the Woods for shelter, hid themselves among the Shrubs, but upon search they were all found and put to death. Some Priests were also brought before C.M. who were all served with the same sauce. They took also a Captain, and carried him before him; him he spared, and made him give a particular account of the Forces of the City; which he did.

His Relation made C. M. alter his re∣solution, so that he ordered they should march another way. Thus having rested their weary bones a little, they began cou∣ragiously to march toward the City with full resolution either to conquer, or be conquered; but they met with great dif∣ficulties in their approaching the City, by reason of the Spanish Cannon firing inces∣santly at them, which occasioned great∣loss of their men; notwithstanding they resolutely advanced, no ways deterred by so imminent danger; so that after three hours hot dispute, wherein the Spaniards did indeed play the men, they were forc'd to yield upon mercy.

The Pirates now being Masters of the City, cut them all off that offered in the least to oppose them: They found not so much Riches here as they expected, the best of them having before been trans∣ported to some remoter place for security. Captain Morgan having assembled all his men together, when the fury was over, gave them order, that under the greatest penalties they should tast no Wine, being privately informed the Spaniards had poisoned it.

CHAP. VII. The City of Panama set on fire, and the Effects thereof.

ALL things being thus put in sub∣jection to the Pirates, and their Guards being set at several quarters of the City, promising to themselves no less than a Paradise there for a while; They were suddenly Alarum'd by a Fire, which appear'd in several places of the City, none knowing how it came; but the wi∣ser sort suspected deeply that C. M. was the Author of it, though upon what mo∣tives,

or for what end he did it, none could guess. All means possible were used by the Spaniards, and some of the Pirates also, for quenching of it, but in vain, for in less then half an hour almost a whole Street was turn'd to ashes.

The Houses were all built with Cedar of a magnificent structure, and richly a∣dorned within, although the best of the Furniture was conveyed away before from the Pirates: here were also eight Mo∣nasteries, wherein there was great Riches, which the Monks secur'd from hazard be∣fore the taking of the City.

The loss which the Spaniards sustained here was infinite, for besides 7000 dwel∣ling Houses, there were also 200 rich Ware-houses burnt, together with many Negroes that had hid themselves there, al∣so a stately House of the Genoeses, be∣longing to their Trade. This fire con∣tinued the space of four weeks before it was quite extinguished.

The Pirates for the most part lodged without the City, and there kept guard, fearing the Spaniards would rally, and to keep their Forces (now much weakned) together, for they knew the Spaniards had a far greater number of men then they had, whom they saw several times in whole Troops cruize too and fro in the

Field, but durst not hazard a Battle; when the Pirates saw no appearance of hazard from the Spaniard, they re-entred the City, and fell to seeking among the Ruines for Plate and Gold, of which they found great quantities hid in Wells and Cisterns, and other such places.

Soon after Captain Morgan sent out 300 men in two Troops, to search for the In∣habitants that were fled, who after two days returned, bringing with them 200 Prisoners, men and women; this day also came in a Boat, which was sent into the South-Sea to search, bringing with her three other Boats; but had missed one Gallion much better then all the three, being laden with the Kings Plate, and o∣ther Riches, both Gold, Pearl, Jewels, and other most precious goods; but it being badly provided both of Arms and Victuals, might easily have been taken, had not the Pirates been otherwise taken up with Drinking and Whoring, till she was got out of their reach, yet the next day they sent after her with all speed, but in vain, she having got to some remote shore un∣known to them; but though they missed the Gallion, yet in searching for it, they found several other Boats laden with cost∣ly merchandise, which they seiz'd upon, and brought to Panama.

Where being arrived, they gave an ac∣count of their Adventures to Captain Morgan, who when he heard of the rich Prize that had escap'd (some of the Prisoners putting him in hope to retrieve her) immediately commanded all the Boats that were in the Port with all hast to pursue her, which they did for the space of eight days, but to no purpose; so returning home by the Isles of Tavoga, and Tavogilla, they found a Vessel laden with Cloath, Sugar, Soap, and Bisket, with 20000 pieces of Eight in money, which they seized without the least opposition, together also with a Boat that lay nigh unto this Ship, into which they put part of the Goods that were in the Ship, with some Slaves found upon the Island, with this purchase they return'd to Panama, yet much unsatisfied that the Gallion escap'd.

While Captain Morgan was thus busy at Panama, those at Chagre were not idle; for they sent out two Boats to follow their imployment, which happened to meet with a Spanish Ship laden with Victuals, and other Provisions, her they began to chase within sight of the Castle, which they in the Castle perceiving, instantly hung out a Spanish Flag, the poor Spaniard seeing this, thought all was right, so that they run in their Ship just under their

Cannon, where they were presently caught and made Prisoners.

This encouraged C. M. to stay the lon∣ger at Panama, where he caused several excursions to be made, sending forth daily Parties of 200 men, and as one Party came back, another of the same number were sent out, by which means he gathered a great deal of Riches; upon a day they happened to find a fellow in a Gentlemans House, who had put on a pair of Taffety Breeches belonging to his Master, with a silver Key hanging at its strings, they put this wretch to exquisite Torments, to make him confess where the Cabinet was to which the Key belonged.

Yea, certain it is, they were most cruel to all ranks, even the Religious Persons were forc'd to buy their lives with their Money, the Women also were little bet∣ter used, especially by practising upon their Chastity, their Captain shewing them no good example in this, an instance whereof was a Gentlewoman brought from Tavo∣ga, and Tavogilla, she was Wife to a rich Merchant who at that time was in Peru about the concerns of his Trade. No sooner was this Lady brought before him, than he designed her for his base plea∣sure, giving orders she should be lodged in an apartment by her self, with a Ne∣gro

to attend her; but this civility soon discovered itself to be for a base end, for soon after he came to her Chamber, where he communicated unto her his ardent de∣sire of accomplishing his lust, she with all civility imaginable denied him, upon which he presented her with Pearl and Gold, and other precious things, but with as little success; hereupon, presently alte∣ring his note, he commanded her to be stript of her cloaths, and put her in a dark stinking Cellar, allowing her no more Victuals then might keep her from star∣ving; but he finding that this cruelty might render him odious even to the Pirates themselves, forges an Accusation against her, as if she kept correspondence with his Enemy the Spaniard, pretending this to be the reason of her being so dealt with, yet in a short time she was allowed the same liberty with the rest.

About this time there was a Plot dis∣covered in the City, of a considerable num∣ber of Pirats (who wearied of Captain Morgans service) resolved to desert him, and that by taking one of the Ships which were in the Port; resolving to follow their old Trade a while by themselves, and then to return home to Europe; for this end they gathered great store of Pro∣vision, which they hid in some private

place, also some great Guns belonging to the Town, with other necessaries suitable to their design.

Certainly their design had taken effect, had not one of their own Comrades be∣trayed them, by discovering the whole to Captain Morgan; who presently caused the Mast of their Ship to be cut down, and burnt, together with all the other Boats that were in the Harbour, after this he sent out many of the Spaniards to the adjoyning Country to seek for mony to redeem themselves, and others their Companions, as well Ecclesiasticks as La∣icks, he caused likewise all the Cannons of the Town to be nail'd, and stop'd up.

CHAP. VIII. Captain Morgan returns to Chagre, and divides the Spoil.

CAptain Morgan being now weary of Panama, resolved to leave it, there∣fore he commanded that all things should be put in order for his departure, but ha∣ving notice that the Governor of Panama had laid several Ambuscado's in his way, he sent out a strong Party to search for him, who soon after returned, and assured him there was no appearance of any such thing, for proof of which, they brought with them some Prisoners, who confessed that indeed the Governor did intend to lay Ambuscado's for him in his return, but that he could not put his design in exe∣cution, because such as he design'd to ef∣fect it, would not undertake it, so the de∣sign was laid aside.

Upon the 24th of February, 1671. the Pirates left the City of Panama, or rather

the place where it did stand; having la∣den 175 Beasts of Carriage, with Silver, Gold, and other precious Spoils, also car∣ried with them 600 Prisoners; having marched a League from Panama, Captain Morgan drew up his men in Battle Array, in such a form, as that the Prisoners were in the midst surrounded with Pirates on all sides, here nothing could be heard but shrieks and Cries of these poor Creatures, terrified with the thought of being tran∣sported, as also being sorely pinched with extream hunger and thirst; which Captain Morgan made them suffer of purpose, that they might with more earnestness seek for Mony for their Ransom; many of them begged with tears, upon their knees, that he would suffer them to go back to Panama again; but he replied that his business there was to get Mony, and not to hear their cries and lamentations.

But the forc'd Lady had some more re∣spect put upon her then the rest, being led by her self betwixt two Pirates. But when she saw that she was like to be car∣ried Captive to a strange land, she was ex∣ceedingly disordered, piercing the skies with her lamentations, also protesting to the Pirates that she had ordered two re∣ligious Persons in whom she confided to go to such a place, where they should find so

much money as her Ransom would amount unto, but instead of bringing it to her, they imployed it some other way, which Captain Morgan hearing, enquired further into it, and finding it to be a truth, imme∣diately released the Lady, but detained the Priests as Prisoners in her place, with∣al using them according to the demerits of their inhumane intreagues.

The Pirates being come to a Town called Cruz, seated upon the River Charge, it was ordered, that within three days every prisoner should bring in their Ransom, otherwise to be transported to Jamaica, whereupon some paid their Ran∣som here, and were set at Liberty, others who could procure no money, were de∣tained; from hence they marched upon the fifth of March, carrying away all the spoil of the place, and also some prisoners whom C. M. added to those of Panama, that payed not their Ransom, and caus'd them all to be transported, excepting their religious men, who had cheated the Lady of her Ransom; they were ransomed three days after the imprisonment by some who pitied their case more than they did hers.

Now these Gentlemen that were for∣merly so strict in examining of others for their goods, begin to set up the same Disci∣pline

amongst themselves; for about half way to Chagre C. M. caus'd every one in the company to be sworn that they had conceal'd nothing of their purchase; which they willingly did, not standing much up∣on such a trifle as an Oath; but he know∣ing by experience what conscience men of that profession were Masters of, com∣manded every man to be searched, even to the very soles of their shoes; but that this Order might not be ill taken, he agreed that he himself should be searched first, which was accordingly done, then by mutual consent there was one chosen out of every Company to search the rest; some were not well pleased with this in∣vention, yet were forc'd to submit, not being able to resist. This being done, they reimbarked for Chagre upon the ninth of March, where they found all things in good order, except the wounded men, whom they left there, most of which died of their wounds.

Having arrived at the Castle of Chagre, C. M. sent to Puerto Velo, demanding a considerable Ransom for the said Castle, threatning otherwise to rase it to the ground, to which they of Puerto Velo an∣swered, that he might do with it as he pleased; as for them, they would not give one farthing for its Ransom; which An∣swer,

though it did vex him, yet he could not help it at that time.

But now being out of all hopes of getting any more by that Voyage, they come next to divide the Spoil, which when done, many complained they were wronged, judging Captain Morgan an unfit divisor, being one that always loved to be his own Carver, which made their proportion the smaller, for notwithstanding of their many dangerous Adventures, and rich Prizes, their share of the dividend came to no more then 200 pieces of Eight per man; this unhandsome dealing did very much exasperate them against him, which he perceiving, began to fear the effects of it, therefore thinking it not safe for him to tarry any longer there, he commanded the Ordnance of the Castle to be carried aboard his Ship, then he ordered as much of the walls and edifices to be ruin'd, as the shortness of the time could permit; after which, he went secretly on board his own Ship, not acquainting any of his Companions with his departure, being only followed with three or four Vessels of the whole Fleet, which some suspected to have shar'd with him in the best and greatest part of the Spoil; some of the discontented would willingly be reveng'd upon him, had they not found themselves

too weak, and ill provided even for their intended Voyage to Jamaica, as you shall hear in the sequel.