Cosmographie in four bookes : containing the chorographie and historie of the whole vvorld, and all the principall kingdomes, provinces, seas and isles thereof / by Peter Heylyn.

OF THE AMERICAN ILANDS: And first of those which are in MARE DEL ZUR.

THE AMERICAN ILANDS, scattered up and down the Shores of this New World, are commonly divided into those of Mare del Zur, or the Pacifique Ocean; and those of the Atlantick, or Mare del Noort. The first so called by Magellanus, the first Discoverer: who passing thorow those troublesome and tem∣pestuous Streits which now bear his name, found such a change upon his coming into the Main, that he gave it the name of Mare del Zur (quod à tranquillitate vocavit Mare del Sur, faith the Author of the Atlas Minor) from the calm and peaceable temper of it. By the Latines called Mare Pacisicum, in the same regard. Called also the Southern Ocean, because of its situation on the South-side of America, in reference to some part of the Golf of Mexico, and the Streits of Anian. Not known unto the Spaniards till discovered by Nonnius Vasques de Balboa, conducted hither by one of the Caciques or petit Kings of the Country about Nombre di Dios; Who seeing the Spaniards so greedy after Gold, told them that he would bring them to a place where their thirst should be satisfied. Accordingly he brought them to the opposite shore, this Balboa being the chief man in that Adventure: who discovering further on the Sea, opened the way unto Pizarro, and the rest that followed to the golden treasures of Peru: Executed notwithstanding this good service by Don Pedro de Avila, within short time after. But the more full discovery of it is to be ascribed unto Magellanus and some later Adventurers, though the Spaniards got nothing by the bargain. For formerly, as long as this Southern Sea was unknown to any but themselves, they conveyed their Gold and treasures from one place to another, from Panama to Peru from Peru to Panama, without loss or charge, and thought their Ports upon that shore to be unaccessible. But after the way unto this Sea was found out by Magellanus; Drake, Cavendish, and the rest of our English Adventurers did so scoure these Coasts, that they left them neither Port, nor Ship, which they did not ransack; as hath been evi∣denced before in some particulars.

As for the Ilands of this Sea, they lie most of them so neer the shores, as if placed there by Nature to serve as Out-works to defend the Continent. Many in tale, but few of consideration; and of those few some of the chief have been described already in their proper places, as parts and members of the Pro∣vince upon which they lie. The residue which lie too far off to come under such consideration, must be mentioned here; and those reduced to these two Heads, 1 Los Ladrones, & 2 the Ilands of John Fernandes.

1. LOS LADRONES are certain Ilands situate betwixt the main Land of America and the Philippine Ilands, in the Longitude of 185. and the 4. Degree of Northern Latitude. So called by Magellanus who first discovered them, because of the thievishness of the Inhabitants, (Insulae Latronum is their name in Latine) who had stollen his Cock boat, which he was forced by main force to recover from them. And they continue still both their name and nature. Found such by Cavendish and Noert in their several Voyages, to whom they came under colour of buying Iron (a commodity which they highly prize) but either closely or openly stealing whatsoever they met with. The people tall of stature, brown of complexion, and inclining to corpulencie; extremely active, and good Divers, continuing a long time under the water, as if alike fitted to both Elements; insomuch as the Hollanders then with Noort, to make trial of it, cast five peeces of Iron into the Sea, all fetched out by one of them: The women as good at it as the men. Both Sexes given to filthy and promiscuous lusts; for which branded (many of them) with the marks of their incontinencie, the Pox having eaten off both their Lips and Noses.

Their Religion is worshipping the Devil, whose Images they have in wood on the head of their Boats; the Chappel and the Saint fit for such devotions. But for the nature of these Ilands, and what subje∣ction the Inhabitants of it yield to the King of Spain, I am yet to seek. But like enough they yield as little as some others do, which yet are reckoned by our Authors to be parts of America.

2. The Ilands of John Fernandes, are two in number: so called from John Fernandes the first Dis∣coverer, An. 1574. each of them five or six miles in compass, and about 300 miles distant from the shores of Chile. Situate in the 33. Degree of Southern Latitude; rockie and barren, but well wooded, and those woods replenished with Goats, but their flesh not so favourie as in other places. Some store of Sanders there is in them, and of Palms no scarcitie. Plenty of Fish upon the shores, for which cause visited sometimes by the Spaniards living in Peru: and fitted with commodious Harbours and Roads

for shipping, which makes them not neglected by other Nations as they pass this way. None else of note in all this Sea, but such as lie upon the Shores of their several Provinces; which we have looked up∣on already. And therefore passing thorow the Straits, and coming up unto the Ilands of Paria, where before we left; we will now look on those of Mare del Noort, or that part of the Atlan∣tick which washeth the shores of this New world (the reason of which names we have seen before) sub∣ordinate to the Counsell or Government of S. Domingo, viz. 1 the Caribes, 2 Porto Rico, 3 Hispani∣ola, 4 Cuba, and 5 Jamaica. The rest already spoken of in their proper places.

1. THE CARIBES.

THE CARIBES or Cannibal Ilands, are in number many; 27 of them known by their proper names; the rest, of less note (though some of these of little enough) not yet so distinguished. Called thus in general, because inhabited by Cannibals and Man-eating People (at their first Discovery) as the word Caribes doth import. They lie extended like a Bow from the Coast of Paria unto the Isle of Porto Rico: of different temper, as must needs be in such variety; and therefore not within the compass of a general Character. Some of the principal we shall consider more distinctly; and for the rest it will be trouble enough to name them, or else pass them by.

1. GRANADA the neerest of this crew to the Main-land of Cumana, is situate in the Latitude of 12 Degrees and 15 Minutes; in form like a Crescent or half Moon, the two horns not a mile asunder, the whole length but six. Shaded all over with thick Woods, but notwithstanding of a rich and fruit∣full soil. A Haven in it of good use; but no Town of note. The People of the same ill condition with the other Savages, but more wit to hide it; most mischievously intended when they seem most kinde; and then the more to be avoided.

2. S. VINCENT 18 miles on the North of Granada, is of so blessed a soil, that it brings forth abundance of Sugar-Canes without charge to the Husbandman, Watered with many pleasant Rivers, and full of safe and convenient Bayes for the use of Marriners. In figue Circular, the Diameter being six miles over; the Circle by consequence eighteen. The People but of mean stature, slothfull, and studious only for their Belly: their love to which makes them to adventure in their small Boats, hewn out of the body of a Tree, to pass into the Continent, and return again, without help of the Compass; though distant from it at the neerest, above 30 miles.

3. BARBADOS on the North-east of S. Vincent, in the Latitude of 13 Degrees, and 20 Minutes. Of an Oval form, 17 or 18 miles in compass. The soil in shew like that of England, but far more fruitfull: on the East side thrusting out it self with Points and Angles, which yield some Bayes, but full of Quick Sands, and unsafe for shipping, on the South furnished with a large and commodious Har∣bour. Not very well provided of for Fruits or Cattel, till made a Colony of the English; who have brought thither from their own Country, Swine and Kine; Oranges, and the like from others. The chief Commodity made hitherto of this Plantation, comes by the planting of Tobacco; and by a kinde of course Sugar called Barbados Sugar, which must be quickly spent or will melt to nothing. Were they in stock, and not forced to make a quick return of their Commodities, they might make here as good Sugars as in other places. Yet this Plantation said to be worth all the rest which are made by the English; who (as I take it) are the sole Colony in it: The Iland but at the courtesie of the Spaniard; without whose leave and liking not of force to hold it.

4. MATININO on the North-west of the Barbados, by the Salvages called Madaninam, with little difference. Everywhere swelled with Hills, of which three most eminent for height: one of them, which way soever a man looks upon it, carrying the resemblance of an Hat. Inhabited in the time of Peter Martyr the Historian, with none but Women: afterwards, with a more fierce and barbarous Peo∣ple then the rest of these Ilands: but neither Men or Women to be seen of late: whether destroyed, or removed further from the shores for fear of their destruction, is a thing uncertain.

5. DOMINICA, seated on the North of Matinino, twelve Leagues in length; exceeding fruit∣full of Tobacco, which they sell unto the Europaeans for Hatchets, Knives, and other Instruments of Iron. Famed for two Fountains of Hot-water, and a commodious Haven at the West side of it, into which falleth a River 20 paces broad. The People as barbarous as ever Cannibals or Man eaters to this very day: At deadly enmity with the Spaniards, and to no man trusty, but where they cannot hurt or dare not. Both Sexes wear their hair long, and colour their bodies over with Oaker. Yet bloody and barbarous though they be, they are ruled by a King of their own, distinguished from the rest in his dress or habit, whom they most readily obey.

6. DESSEADA, or the Land of Desire, on the North east of Dominica, Discovered by Colum∣bus in his second Voyage; naked of Trees, and at the first sight afar off, not unlike a Galley. Of great use to the Spaniards, who always take it in their way from the Canaries to the parts of America, and back again at their return.

The like use do they make of 7. The Isle of GVADALVPE, parallel to this, but directly West∣ward: at which the Fleets which come from Spain use to take fresh water, and there disperse them∣selves to their several Ports. Eight miles in length, and of good Anchorage in most parts of the Sea adjoyning. North-cast from hence lieth

8. S. Maria del Antigna, commonly called ANTIGNA onely, and by some mistakingly ANTEGO. Seven leagues in length, and as much in breadth; difficult of access, and destitute of fresh water, but well replenished of woods, and provided of Fens. Of late times made a Colonie of the English, who do still possess it.

9. S. CHRISTOPHER, on the North-west of Guadalupe, in the Latitude of 17 Degrees & 20 Minutes. The length six miles, the breadth in many places four, and in some but two: much swelled with hils, and towards the East provided of several Salt-wiches. The French and English had sometimes in it their several Colonies: by whom the Natives were destroyed, or otherwise compelled to forsake their dwellings; convict, as was pretended, of some manifest treacheries. But the two Colonies did not long enjoy the sole possession; ejected by Frederick de Toledo, as he passed this way with his Navie; t••ough suffered to return to their former dwellings, as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 profitable then dangerous to the Crown of Spain. Their chief employment and commoditie lies in their Tobacco, by some much commended. Joyning hereto, or but a League from it at the most, is

10. The Isle of NIEVES, affirmed to be five leagues in compass; well wooded and as pleasantly watered; insomuch as the Inhabitants of the Isle of Dominica used to come hither for their pleasures, but for hunting chiefly. Now famed for some Bathes or Hot Waters, found out by the English, who in the year 1528. placed a Colonie in it. But whether subsisting of it self, or a part of their Plantation in S. Christophers, I am yet to learn.

11. SANCTA CRVX, by the Inhabitants called Ayay, on the North-west of S Christophers, and the South-east of Porto Rico, from which last distant 15 leagues. Woody and mountainous; not well provided of fresh waters; but on the West-side furnished with a safe and commodious Road, under the covert of the mountains. Amongst their fruits some that resemble a green Apple; which tasted, so i•• flames the tongue, that for 24 houres it swelleth in so great extremity, as makes it altogether useless, but after that by little and little it abates again. The like hapneth also to the face, if washed before sun∣••ising with their Fen-waters, which are very frequent in this Iland; after the rising of the sun, without any harm at all. In this there is a Colonie of the English also, but of later standing then those of S. Christophers and Barbados.

Some of the principal of the rest, 1 Anguilla, 2 Barbada, 3 S. Bartholmews, 4 S Lucies, 5 S. Mar∣tins, 6 Montferrat, 7 Rotunda, 8 Saba, 9 Virgo Gorda, & 10 Sumbrero; of which we have little but the names: the rest, though known by several names, are not worth the naming. Onely we are to adde concerning the whole Nation of Caribes, once here inhabiting, that they did usually hunt for Men, as Men for Beasts, roving as far as Porto Rico to seek after their prey; and what they caught, was sure to go to the pot, in the worst sense too. Columbus, when he was at the Isle of Guadalupe, found 30 Captive Children which were reserved to be eaten, and in their houses divers vessels filled with Mans flesh, and some upon the spit ready to be roasted. Nor had they laid aside this diet, till after the year 1564. but how long I know not: For at that time, a Spanish ship coming to water at the Isle of Dominica, they cut her Cables in the night, haled her to the land, and devoured all that were in her. But the Ilands have been of late times well cleared of these Monsters; some of them brought unto better order, but the most destroyed as the common Enemies of mankind; the Ilands where they dwelt being either totally desert∣ed, or taken up by the Europaeans and their several Colonies.

2. PORTO RICO. And 3. MONICO.

PORTO RICO lyeth on the North-west of Sancta Crux, from which distant about 15 Leagues, and near upon as many from Hispaniola, 136 Leagues from the main Land of Paria, and not much less from the Cape of Coquibocco in Rio de la Hacha, a Province of Castella Aurea. It took this name from the chief Town and Haven of it; but was called by Columbus at the first discovery S. Johannis In∣sula, o•• the Isle of S. Johns; by the Natives Boriguen.

It is situate under the 18 and 19 Degrees of Northern Latitude; in form quadrangular, but of a greater length then breadth, such as the Geometricians call oblongum: The length thereof being 30 Leagues, and the breadth but 20. The Ayr hereof very pleasant and temperate, not scorched with furious heats in Summer, nor made offensive by the fall of continual rains; exposed sometimes (chiefly in August and September) to the trouble somness of sudden tempests, called Hericanos. The soyl indifferently fruitful, though somewhat Mountainous: here being (besides other Hils of inferiour note) a ridge of high Hils which run cross the Country from the one end unto the other. Their chief commodities Sugar canes, Ginger, Cassia, and great store of Hides: the Europaean Cattle having so abundantly increased, that they kill thousands for their skins; leaving the flesh to be a prey unto Dogs and Birds. Some Mines here were of Gold and Silver, but consumed long since. And so are all the Natives also; of whom, in that respect, impertinent to give any Character.

Chief Rivers of the Iland, 1 Cairobon, 2 Boyaman: of divers fountains, and of severall and divided courses. 3 Luysa, & 4 Toa, two Rivers growing out of one. The Spring of that one in the Mountains of Guayamo, whence running Northwards in one Channel 16 Leagues together, doth afterwards divide it self into those two streams. 5 Guiano. 6 Arezibo. 7 Guabiabo; of lesser note; but all of them, as well as all the rest before, concluding in some safe and capacious Haven.

Places of most importance in it, 1 Porto Rico the chief town, built in a little Iland, on the North side of the greater, but joyned unto it with huge piles, and vast expences, by the command of Philip the first, An. 1514. Well built, with large streets, and convenient houses, according to the model of the Cities of Spain; and beautified with a fair Cathedral; the Bishop one of the Suffragans of the Archbishop of S. Domingo in Hispaniola. The town unwalled, but fortified with two strong Castles: the one of which secures the Haven, and the other the Town. In vain attempted, and with the loss of 40 or 50 men, by Sir Francis Drake, An. 1595. but taken two years after by George Earl of Cumberland, who had a pur∣pose to have peopled it with an English Colonie. Discouraged from it by the death of 400 of his men, by change of Ayr, and some intemperance of Diet; he set sayl for England, doing no other hurt to the Town or Iland, but the disfurnishing it of 70 piece of Ordnance, and some part of their treasure, which he brought home with him. 2 S. Germans, in the Western part of the Iland, but four Leagues from the Sea; once the chief of the Iland, now both unfortified, and small. 3 Arezibo, on the River so called. 4 Luysa, the most noted Port of the Eastern parts, situate on the mouth of the River so named.

Eastward hereof betwixt it and Hispaniola, lies the Iland of Mona, (might not this think we be so called by Madoc ap Owen Gwinedth, of whom before?) three Leagues in compass; rockie and of a brackish earth; but fit for the production of Limons, Orenges, and such kind of fruits, which are here in plenty. Not far off▪ but more towards the West, Monico, or Monetta, as our English call it, where they found such infinite store of Fowl, that they flew over their heads as thick as Ha••l, and made them almost deaf with the very noise; their Eggs so thick upon the ground, that they loaded two Boats with them in three hours, and could hardly pass forwards without treading on them.

But to return to Porto Rico, or the Isle of S. Johns, it was first touched upon by Columbus in his second voyage, An. 1493. but first inhabited by John Ponce of Leon, An. 1510. who being courteously enter∣tained by Aiguabana, the chief Prince thereof, planted a Colonie of Spaniards in the North part of the Iland, which he called Caparra. The Colonie ten years after that removed to Guanica, and from thence to S. Germans: carrying with it the repute of the chief town of all the Iland, upon every remove, till the building of Porto Rico, where it since hath fixed. The Iland, very populous for the bigness of it, when the Spaniards came to it: but the Natives long ago consumed by several Butcheries; and as some write, not above 1500 Spaniards in all the Country. What else concerns the storie of it, we have seen before.

4 HISPANIOLA.

HISPANIOLA lyeth on the West of Porto Rico; the distance we have seen already. By the Inhabitants called Haiti••, and by some Quisqueia; but by Columbus it was honoured with the name of Hispaniola, or little Spain; and of late times beginneth to be called S. Domingo, from the chief Town of it.

The form thereof Triangular, extended in a sharp Angle, called Cabo del Enganno, towards Porto Rico: the Western end fashioned like a large Bay, or Semicircle; the Northern point of which is named S. Nicholas; the Southern, Cabo de Donna Maria. The length affirmed to be 150 Leagues, the breadth in some places 60. in some but 30. thence growing less and less till it come unto the Eastern Angle; the whole compass estimated at 400. Situate betwixt the 18 & 20 Degrees of Northern Latitude. Of an Air much infested with Morning-heats, but cooler in the Afternoon by the constant blowing of a Sea-gale, which they there call Virason.

The Country for the most part beautiful and flourishing; the Trees alwayes in their Summer-livery, and the Meadows green, as if it did enjoy a perpetual Spring. In many places swelled with high craggie Mountains, whence the name of Hayty, that word so signifying in the natural language of the Natives. Of such an excellent herbage, that the Cattel brought hither out of Spain have increased almost beyond Arithmetick; grown wilde for want of proper Owners; and hunted unto death like the Stags of the forrest, though onely to rob them of their skins. The soil so fertile, that in the space of sixteen dayes Herbs and Roots will grow ripe, & be fit to be eaten. So plentifully stored with Ginger, and Sugar-canes, that in the year 1587. there were shipped hence 27500. pound weight of Ginger, and 900. Chests of re∣fined Sugar; an evident argument of the riches and fertility of it. A further proof hereof may be, the rich Mines of Gold, in which they used to find Gold without mixture of dross or other metals. 2 The great increase of Sugar, one Cane here filling twenty, sometimes thirty measures. 3 The wonderful yield of Corn, amounting in some places to an hundred fold. But the Mines were long ago exhausted, in∣somuch as the Inhabitants are fain to use brass-money: but in stead of those of Gold, they have found out others of Brass and Iron, and some few of Silver; but not much searched into of late for want of Workmen.

The reason of that want to be ascribed unto the Covetousness and Crueltie of the Spanish Nation: who out of an unsatiable thirst for Gold, consumed the people in their Mines; and out of the like thirst for Blood, killed so many of them, that in few years they destroyed three Millions of the Natives. And it is probably supposed, that had not Charles the 5. restrained them by a Penal Edict from com∣pelling the Natives against their wils to those works of servitude, there had not been one Native left in

all this Iland, nor in any other part of their Plantations. Such as are left, are said to be of low stature, of black hair, and a complexion somewhat inclining to that colour: not differing in manners, habit, or Religion from the Spaniards there.

Rivers of most note, 1 Ozama, on whose Banks stands Domingo, the chief Town of the Iland, ca∣pable of the greatest ships to the very Wharf. 2 Nigua, which passing thorow rich Pastures, or ma∣king the Pastures rich, by its secret vertue; runneth towards the West: as do also, 3 Yaquimo, 4 Ni∣zao, and 5 Neyba. 6 Hayna, of a contrary course to the other three. 7 Yaqui, or Jacho, which falleth into the Northern Seas. 8 Nicayagua, 9 Cocitemuco, 10 Xanique. These three last famous heretofore for their Sands of Gold. Some speak of 30000 Brooks and Rivers, which are found in this Countrey; two parts of which vast number had their Golden Sands. A thing so far beyond the charity of the strongest Faith, (though reported by a grave and Reverend Author) that I know not what Interpre∣tation to put upon it, except every Water-course, Ditch, and Gutter, may be reckoned in.

The whole divided, when the Spaniards first came amongst them, into several Provinces or King∣doms, as 1 Higuey, 2 Jacuaguia, 3 Samana, in the Eastern parts. 4 Yaquimo, 5 Boaruco, and 6 Xaragua, towards the South. 7 Guahabu, and 8 Cabaya, in the West: and in the North▪ 9 Cibao, rich in Mines of Gold; 10 Marien, the Landing place of Columbus; and 11 Maguana in the center of the Iland, the King whereof in the time of Columbus was named Conabo, of greatest power of any of those peti•• Roytelets. Another division of it hath been made by Nature, parting it by four Rivers, all rising from one Mountain in the midst of the Iland into four Divisions: the River Jache running towards the North; 2 Nubiba hastning to the South; 3 Yuna, or Junna towards the East; and 3 Hatibonico to the West. But these divisions being long since grown out of use, we will survey the chief of the Towns and Cities of it, as they come before us.

And they are 1 S. Domingo, first built by Bartholomew Columbus, Anno 1494. on the East bank of the Ozama; and afterwards (in the year 1502) removed by Nicolas de Obando, then Governour of the Iland to the opposite shore. Situate in a pleasant Country, amongst wealthy Pastures, and neighboured with a safe and capacious Haven: the houses elegantly built, most of them of stone, and the whole well walled▪ beside a Castle at the VVest end of the Peer to defend the Haven: enriched by the resi∣dence of the Governour, the Courts of Justice, the See of an Archbishop (and besides many Convents and Religious houses) an Hospital endowed with 20000 Ducats of yeerly Rent. Esteemed of greatest Trade and concourse of Merchants till the taking of Mexico, and the Discovery of Peru; since that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sensibly decaying; and now reduced unto the number of 600 Families of Spaniards; the greatest p••••t of the City, and all the Suburbs, inhabited by Negros, Mulatos. and other Strangers. Not yet 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the hurt it had by Sir Francis Drake, who in the year 1586 ••ook it by force, and held it for the space of a moneth, burning the greatest part of the houses, and suffering the rest to be redeem∣ed a certain price. 2 Salvaleon, 28 Leagues to the East of Domingo. 4 Jaguana, called also Santa 〈◊〉〈◊〉 del Porto, from a safe and beautifull Haven adjoyning to it; situate in the VVest part of the I∣land, of no great bigness, consisting of no more then 150 houses, when it was at the greatest; but made much less by Captain Newport, who in the year 1591. burnt it to the ground. 4 Cotuy, in the North of the Iland, opposite to S. Domingo, from which distant almost 60 Leagues: a little Town, but formerly of great esteem for its Mines of Gold. 5 Conception de la Vega, the foundation of Chri∣stopher Columbus; for whose sake afterwards adorned with a See Episcopal. 6 Puerto de la Plata, 40 Leagues from Domingo on the Northern shore; where built on a commodious Bay by Nicholas de O∣•••••••• before mentioned, by whom also fortified: the second Town of wealth and Trade in all the Iland. 7 Az••a, now called Compostella, a noted Haven, and much resorted to for Sugars, which it yields abundantly.

This Iland was first discovered by Columbus (for I believe not that it was any of the fortunate Ilands which we read of in the life of Sertorius) in the first voyage which he made: conducted hither by some of he Inhabitants of the Isle of Cuba. Landing, and gaining the good will of the Savages, by gentle usage, he obtained leave of one of their King or Caciques to build a Fortress in his Country, which he called Na∣vided or Natividad, leaving in it 36 Spaniards to keep possession: whom he found both mastered and murdered at his coming back. Being now better furnished for a new Plantation, he built the Town called Isabella, (in honour of Isabella Queen of Castile) near the Mines of Cibao; which afterwards was de∣serted also, and the Colonie removed unto S. Domingo: the Spaniards sending one Colonie after ano∣ther, till at last their number was increased unto 14000. besides women and children. But having rooted out the Natives by their infinite cruelties, and exhausted the riches of the Country with as infinite cove∣tousness: they betook themselves to fresher Quarters, abandoning the Iland to devour the Continent. Once had the Ilanders rebelled, and fortified themselves in the Province of Baoruco; a place so natu∣rally strong, that there was little need of the helps of Art. Not brought to leave that fastness but on such conditions as made the Spaniards less insolent, and themselves less slaves.

5. CVBA.

CVBA lyeth on the West of Hispaniola, from which parted by a Frith, or narrow Channel, inter∣posed betwixt the two Capes of S. Nicholas, and that of Mayzi. Backed on the North with a frie of Ilands, called the Lucaios, and some part of the Peninsula of Florida; extended towards the East to the extream point or Foreland of Jucutan, called Cape de Gotache, from which distant about 50 Leagues, and neighboured on the South with the Isle of Jamaica.

It is in length from East to VVest, that is to say, from Cape Mazie towards Hispaniola, to the Cape of S. Anthony, 230 Leagues; in breadth where broadest hardly 40, but fifteen in others. For the fertility of the soil contending with Hispaniola for the preheminence; but in the temperature of the Aire a great deal before it. Liberally stored with Ginger, Cassia, Mastick, Aloes, Cinnamon and Su∣gar, (not reckoning such commodities as are common unto this with others) besides great plenty of Flesh, and Fish; and of Fowl no scarcity. The Gold more drossie in the Mine, then in Hispaniola, but the Brass more perfect. Hilly, and full of lofty Mountains; but those Mountains clad with divers trees, some of which drop the purest Rosin, and the Hills sending to the Valleys many notable Rivers. Pester∣ed with many sorts of Serpents, not so much out of any ill condition of the Soyl and Air, as by an old Superstition of the Savages: in former times not suffered to kill them when they might (this be∣ing a Dish reserved for the higher Powers) not able afterwards to destroy them when it would have been suffered.

What other Savage Rites they had, is not now material, the Spaniards having took an Order that they should not trouble us in that particular. Yet thus much we may adde in memory of the first Inhabi∣tants, that an old man of 80 years, one of the Caciques of the Iland, addressed himself unto Colum∣bus at his first coming hither, advising him to use his Fortune with moderation, and to remember that the souls of men have two journeys when they leave this world; the one foul and dark prepared for the injurious and cruel person; the other delectable and pleasant for the men of peace. It is said also of them that they knew not the use of money, nor understood the niceties of Meum and Tuum: Tenants in common to the blessings which the earth brought forth, and Coheirs of Nature.

Amongst the Rarities of this Iland, they mention a Fountain out of which floweth a pitchy substance, which is found frequently on the Seas into which it falleth, excellent for the Calking of ships: Se∣condly, a Navigable River (but the name not told us) the waters of which were so hot, that a man could not endure to hold his hand in them. They tell us also thirdly of a Valley 15 Leagues from S.Jago, which produceth stones exactly round, as if made for pleasure; but yet meerly natural. But these no greater Rarities then in other places: nor altogether so great as in Hispaniola. Of which they tell us of a fair River, whose waters are Salt, and yet none but fresh streams fall into it: Of another Lake (three Leagues in compass) on the top of the Mountains, into which many Rivers were known to run without any Exit. Neither of these so strange or rare as the Cucuyo, a kinde of Scarabe or Beetel: the eyes and wings whereof when opened give so great a light, in the darkest places, that a man may see to read and write by it, as well as by Candle.

Rivers of most note, 1 Cante, much annoyed with Crocodiles (a Beast not common in these Ilands, nor elswhere in this) exceeding dangerous to such as repose themselves on the Banks of the River. 2 A∣rimao, which disburdeneth it self neer the Port of Xagua. 3 Rio de Porcos, full of Rocks and quick∣sands, at the entrances of it. 4 Rio Escondida, passing betwixt Habana, and the Port of Marancas, 5 Marien, and 6 Tanne, of less note: Besides these, there is Xagua, a safe Station and Road for ship∣ping; of a narrow entrance, but large and spacious when once entred, above ten Leagues in length, and of breadth proportionable. So fenced on all sides from the winds, that ships lie here in ••afety with∣out any Anchor. Some other Baies there be as usefull, though not so considerable.

Towns of most consequence, 1 S. Jago in the South part of the Iland, situate about two Leagues from the Main, but in the bottom of a large and capacious Gulf, the most noted Port of all these Seas. Built by Don Diego de Velasques, An 1514. Afterwards made a Bishops See, beautified with a Cathedral; some Religious houses; once not inferiour unto any for numbers of People, though now few enough. 2 Baracao, 30 Leagues on the East of S. Jago, the same Foundation as the other; and neighboured by great quantities of Eben-wood. 3 S. Salvador, by some called Bayamo, according to the old name of the Province in which it standeth; built by Velasco in the most pleasant and richest part of all the Iland; but not so fitly, as the other, for Trade and Merchandise. 4 Porto del Principe, an Haven Town in the North parts: not far from which is the Fountain of a pitchie or bituminous liquor, spoken of before; which I conceive to be much of the same nature with the Fountains of Naphta in the East. 5 Trinidad, another of Velascos foundations, nine or ten leagues Eastward of the Port of Xagua: once well frequented, but now forsaken, and meer nothing. 6 Havana, in the North parts, opposite to Florida, a noted and well traded Port; so strongly situate and fortified both by nature and Art, that it seems impregnable. The Entrances defended with two notable Castles; a greater then either opposite to the mouth of the Haven; all so commodiously built, and well planted with Ord∣nance, that they are able to keep out and scatter the greatest Navy. Neer one of them standeth an high Tower, from the top whereof notice is given unto the Guards, of every ship that cometh within view of the Watchmen. The best assurance, not only of this Iland but the Bay of Mexico; and therefore honoured for the most part with the seat of the Governour, and the greatest Trade of all these Seas: the ships which are bound for Spain from all parts of the Gulf, tarrying here for one another, till all met together, and setting fail from hence by the Streits of Bahama, amongst the Isles of the Lucaios.

This Iland one of the first which was discovered by Columbus: who having almost tired the Spani∣ards with the expectation, first fell upon the Iland of Guahanani, one of the Lacaios, to which he gave the name of S. Saviours. From thence he sailed to Baracoa, on the North of this Iland, which he caused to be called Fernandina, in honour of Ferdinand the Catholick▪ King of Castile and Aragon; at whose charge and the incouragement of Isabella his Heroick Queen, he pursued this enterprise▪ Land∣ing, he asked the People if they knew Cipango (by which name Paulus Venetus calls the Isle of Japan)

and they conceiving that he enquired after Cibao (of great note for the richest Mines in Hispaniola) pointed towards Hayty; some of them going with him to conduct him thither. Cuba by this means laid aside, and all the thoughts of Spain upon Hispaniola, where they found many golden provocations to in∣vite their stay; till hungring after more Gold, and some new Plantations, they passed over hither: and in few years by the prudent conduct of Velasco, got such footing in it, and made that footing good by so many Colonies; that their title and possession was beyond dispute; and so continueth to this day.

6. JAMAICA.

IAMAICA lyeth on the South of Cuba, from which distant 20 Leagues, and as much, or very lit∣tle more, from Hispaniola. Discovered in the second voyage of Columbus, by whom named S. Jago; that name changed afterwards to Jamaica.

It is in length from East to West about 50 Leagues, and in breadth 20. the whole compass estimated at 150. the middle of it under the 18 Degree of Northern Latitude. Of a rich soyl, abundantly pro∣vided of all things necessary: well stocked with Cattle, and no less plentifully stored with most sorts of Fruits, which either Industry or Nature have supplyed it with. Great store of Cotton-wooll; and such abundance of Jaccu (a Root whereof the Savages once made their bread) that it was deemed the Grana∣rie of the neighbouring Ilands. And were it not disfurnished of convenient Ports (which is all the want of it) would be as much frequented by the sea-faring men, as any other in those parts. Once very popu∣lous now destitute of all the natural Inhabitants: this Iland, and that of Porto Rico, loosing in few years 60000 by the Spaniards cruelties. Cruelties which not only raged upon the men, but destroyed poste∣rity: the Women, here and elsewhere so abominating their sad condition, that they strangled their Children in the birth, to the end they might not live to serve such a cruel Nation.

Chief Towns hereof (for though it be well watered, it hath no great Rivers) 1 Sevilla, in the North∣part of the Iland, beautified with a goodly Monasterie, the Abbot whereof hath all Episcopal jurisdicti∣on, and is priviledged to wear a Miter; in nothing more enobled, then that Peter Martyr the Histo∣rian (to whose Decades all succeeding Ages are to be beholding, for the Chorographie, and History of these parts of the World) was once Abbot here. 2 Mellilla, a small Town, but memorable for the un∣fortunate shipwrack of Columbus, on the shores adjoyning. 3 Oristan, on the South of the Iland, four∣teen Leagues from Sevil. 4 De la Vega, now a ruine only, once a Spanish Colonie; and of great fame for giving the title of Dukes to Christopher Columbus, and his brother Bartholmew. Since whose time nothing hapned prejudicial to the State of this Iland by the hands of any but the Spaniards; till con∣quered, but not held by Sir Anthonie Sherley, An. 1596.

Thus having took a short Survey of the several parts of this great Body; we now briefly take a view of the Government and Forces of it. The Government committed chiefly to two great Vice-Royes, the one of Nova Hispania, who resides at Mexico; the other of Peru, who abideth at Lima; the princi∣pal Cities of those Kingdoms. The first hath jurisdiction over all the Provinces of Nova Gallicia, Nova Hispania, Guatimala, Castella Aurea, and the Provinces of the Mexican Ilands; the other over those of Peru, Chile, Rio de la Plata, and the new Realm of Granada. Such scattered pieces as they hold in Guy∣ana, Paria, and the Caribes, with their Forts in Florida, being reduced to some of these. Of these the Vice Roy of Peru is of greatest power, because he hath the nomination of all the Commanders and Of∣ficers within his Government: which in the other are reserved to the King himself. But that of New Spain counted for the better preferment, because of its nearness unto Spain (in respect of the other) the beauties of the City of Mexico, and the Civilities of the People. For the administration of Justice, and ordering the Affairs of the several Provinces, there are ten chief Courts, from which there lyeth no Ap∣peal: that is to say, 1 Guadalaiara, for Gallicia Nova. 2 Mexico, for New Spain. 3 S. Domingo, for the Province of the Ilands. 4 Guatimala, for the division so named. 5 And Panama, for Castella Aurea. Then for the other Government, Quitos, Lima, and Charcas, in the Realm of Peru. 9 Imperiale, for Chile. 10 S. Foy, for the New Realm of Granada. From these, though no Appeal doth lie in matter of justice; yet both from them and the two Vice-Royes an Appeal may lie in affairs of State, or point of Grievance. And to this end there is a standing Counsel in the Court of Spain, which is called the Counsel of the Indies, consisting of a President, eight Counsellors, two Proctors Fiscal (which we call the Solli∣citors General) and two Secretaries, besides other Officers: to whom it appertaineth to take care of all matters which concern the Government of these Countries; to appoint the Vice-Royes, to dispose of all the great offices (except those of the Government of Peru) and spiritual Dignities; to appoint Visiters to go into those Provinces for the examining the actions of all Officers, hearing the grievances of the People, and to displace or punish as they find occasion; but with the Kings privity and consent.

As for the Estates of private men, they which hold Lands or Royalties from the Crown of Spain, hold them but for life (except it be the Marquess of Valsa in New Spain, of the race of Cortez) after their deaths returning to the King again; who gives them commonly to the eldest son, or the next of blood; but so that they receive it as a mark of his favour, and not from any right of theirs. And though they have many times attempted to make these Commanderies and Estates hereditarie, and offered great summes of money for it, both to Charles the fifth, and Philip the second; yet they could never get it done; the Kings most prudently considering, that these great Lords having the command of the Estates and Persons of their several Vassals, would either grinde them into powder without any remedy; or up∣on any Inquisition into their proceedings, take an occasion to revolt. Both dangers of no small impor∣tance, both by this uncertainty of their present Tenure, exceeding happily avoided.

The Revenue which the King receiveth hence, is said to be three Millions of Ducats yeerly: most of it rising out of the Fifths of the Mines of Gold and silver: the rest by Customes upon Manufactures and all sorts of Merchandise, and the Acknowledgments reserved upon Lands and Royalty. But out of this there goeth great Exits, that is to say to the two Vice-Roys 12000 Ducats; to the President and Offi∣cers of the Counsel of the Indies in Spain 20000 Ducats; to the Judges and Officers of the several Courts of Judicature very liberall Pensions; to every Arch-bishop and Bishop, of which there are 29. in all 2000 Ducats at the least, and to some much more to mend their Benefices. Then reckoning in the infinite Charges, in maintaining Garrisons, and entertaining standing Bands both of Horse and Foot, in several parts of this Estate; and the continual keeping of a strong Armada, to conduct his Plate-Fleets to Spain, there must be made a great abatement, and the sum will bear it. For howsoever at the first his Revenues came from hence without any great charge, more then the keeping of a few Soul∣diers to awe the Savages; yet after he fell fowl with England, and startled the Hollanders to Rebelli∣on, he was compelled to fortifie all his Havens, and secure his Ports, and to maintain a strong Ar∣mada at the Sea to Convoy his Treasures. Before which time, the English (as is instanced in several places) did so share in his Harvest, that they left him scarce enough to pay his Workmen; which if they should attempt again upon any breach, they would finde it very difficult, if not impossible, to effect any thing on the Coasts, as in former times; or indeed any other way but by making themselves too strong for him at Sea, and thereby either intercept his Fleets, or hinder them from coming to him to supply his needs.

And so much of the AMERICAN Ilands.