The merchants map of commerce wherein the universal manner and matter relating to trade and merchandize are fully treated of, the standard and current coins of most princes and republicks observ'd, the real and imaginary coins of accounts and exchanges express'd, the natural products and artificial commodities and manufactures for transportation declar'd, the weights and measures of all eminent cities and towns of traffick in the universe, collected one into another, and all reduc'd to the meridian of commerce practis'd in the famous city of London / by Lewis Roberts, merchant.

OF AFRICA, AND THE Provinces and Cities of Trade THEREOF.

CHAP. XIV.

AFRICA I make to be my second Division of the World, which is found to be a Peninsula, almost incompassed round, having the Red Sea on the East, the Atlantique Ocean on the West, the Southern Ocean on the South, and the Mediter∣ranean on the North; and where the Sea is defective, to make it a compleat Island, there is a little Isthmus of 20 leagues that tieth it to Asia, which sundry Princes in former ages intended to trench through, to have the benefit of both those Seas united, but have desisted, as finding the Sea in the Red Sea Gulph to be higher than the Land of Aegypt, by nature all flat, level, and plain, and so might thereby overflow and drown all Aegypt.

Africa is at this day usually divided into eight parts, which are,

• 1. Barbary.
• 2. Numidia.
• 3. Lybia.
• 4. Negrita.
• 5. Aethiopia Interior.
• 6. Aethiopia Exterior.
• 7. Aegypt, and
• 8. The Islands thereof.

And first, Barbary is now divided into four Kingdoms, which are, first, Tunis; second, Ar∣gier; third, Fesse; and fourth, Morocco; the Commodities these Countries send abroad, I shall speak of when I come to these particular places.

CHAP. XV. Of TUNIS, and the Trade thereof.

THE Kingdom of Tunis contains sundry Cities of Trade, viz. Bona, Biserta, Tripolis, Africa, and (which is the principal) the City of Tunis it self: Which is situate near unto a Lake, some seven miles in length (and not much less in breadth) extending almost to the Castles of Goletta, whereby this Port (commonly called the Port of Goletta) is strongly guarded, being about eight miles distant from this City. Near unto which was seated that famous City of Car∣thage, who contended with Rome for the Mastery of the World, and challenged the priority in Africa, as Queen and Supreme Lady thereof; not only seen in here Ruines, and known by her vast extent; And from whose ashes sprung up Tunis, which is almost 4 English miles in circuit within the Walls, and with the Suburbs will make in compass about 7 miles: The Streets being generally very narrow, it is exceeding populous; as appear'd by that terrible de∣vastation in the year 1643, and part of 44, wherein there died of the Plague in the space of about 15 months (if Vox Populi may be credited) no less than one hundred thousand persons:

And yet so great a multitude in a year or two after were scarcely missed: The natives are for the greater part Moors and Andaluzes (which are of the Race of those Moors, which by thousands were banished from Spain) who profess the Mahometan Religion.

The great Turk is acknowledged for their Protector, who every three years, and sometimes oftner, do send hither a Bashaw, who representing his person, is as it were a Vice-Roy sent by him to recover in his Tribute from the Moors of this Countrey, and to pay off his Janizaries, which are about 400 in number: And these keep in subjection the whole City and some ad∣jacent Towns; the Government chiefly appertaining to the Dey (or Captain General, for so the word doth import) who is chosen by the Turks: There is also a Duan, or Council of State, who consult about the affairs of the whole Kingdom, yet have not absolute power to determine of any thing, without the consent and approbation of the Dey, who rules them as he pleases.

Their Houses (being built of Stone) are for the most part made after a square form, and flat at the top, there being a Court-Yard in the midst, for the conveying of light into the adja∣cent rooms; Some few of their Houses are magnificent; and their Churches generally, th•• small, are superficially beautiful: which are held to be so sacred, that none that are not Mus∣selman (that is, true Believers according to the Mahometan account) are permitted to set foot therein; if they do, there is no remedy, but they must either turn from, or burn for their Religion.

This Kingdom is much bettered and inriched by the labour of the Andaluzes, who have here built many Cities and Temples according to their superstitious use, planted Vines, Oran∣ges, Limons, Figs, Dates, Almonds and Olives; and thereby have much peopled and pro∣sited the whole Countrey.

The Port is found to be very safe and secure (excepting only when a … wind blows hard, which makes a great Sea) and withal so large, that many hundred Sail may ride at Anchor; the ground likewise being very good.

The Coins passable here are of three kinds of metal, viz. Gold, Silver and Copper. Those of Gold are usually but of three sorts, namely the Sultany, which commonly passeth at 90 Aspers, (52 whereof go to a Spanish Dollar or Ryal of 〈◊〉〈◊〉) the Venice Chickeen at 2 Ryals of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Spain; and the Spanish Pistolet at 3¼ Ryals of 〈◊〉〈◊〉. But these Gold Coins do vary much in their va∣lue according to mens necessities, and the plenty and scarcity thereof. Sultanies have passed some∣times at 100 Aspers apiece for a long while together: Likewise the Spanish Pistolet hath been at 3½ and the Venice Chickeen at 2¼ Ryals of 8/••. The reason why these do often rise so high, is principally the Mahometans going to Mecha, (to visit the Sepulchre of their false Prophet) who for their light carriage are very inquisitive after Gold: But they chiefly desire Sultanies, which in divers places go current for 2 Ryals of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a piece: Sometimes also they en∣quire after Spanish Pistolets, but seldom or never after Venice Chickeens, for they are not pas∣sable in those parts: Yet this last sort is much made use of for guilding, the old ones being ac∣counted the best.

The Silver Coins are of two sorts, viz. the Spanish Ryal of 8/••, and the Asper of this place; which latter notwithstanding hath some mixture of Brass in it; and of late years they have been so falsified by the Jews, that at present they are called in, which cannot but occasion a great detriment to many.

Their Accounts are commonly kept in Dollars (or Ryals of 〈◊〉〈◊〉) and Aspers.

Exportation of Money is sometimes limited (viz. such a quantity at a shipping as the Dey pleases) and often prohibited; yet seldom is this Prohibition so strict, but by means of a Pre∣sent you may transport what you please: yet take this observation, That the Dollars here are generally lighter than in other parts, the reason supposed to be the Jews clipping of them.

Their common Weight is a Cantar, or 100 pound, being about two pounds bigger than our 112 pound of England. So that their pound weight hath been found to make near 16 ounces Troy, and produces in Ligorn, the common Scale of passage from Christendom, 150 pound. This Cantar contains 100 pounds, each pound is divided into 16 ounces, and each ounce into 8 Tamins. And hereby is weighed all sorts of Commodities, except Silver, Gold, Pearl, &c. which are weighed by a Carot Weight and Mitigals, as shall be shewed in another place more convenient.

In weighing of Cloves 5 pound per Cantor is usually allowed for Tret; and for Nutmegs and Pepper 5 pound per cent. for Tret and Bag together.

Their Measure of length is the Pike: whereof there are three sorts; the first being call'd the Cloth-Pike, that's 26½ inches English, by which are measured all sorts of Woollen Cloth, and Stuffs: By the second (termed the Silk-Pike) which is a gray or 1/18 part less than the Cloth-Pike, are measured Silks, Sattens, Velvets, and the like. By the third sort, which is called the Linnen-Pike, is measured only Linnen and Dimity, &c. and is ¼ part less than the Silk-Pike.

Their dry Measures are, 1. The Coffice, which contains about ten English bushels, and

doth commonly hold out 5 Sacks of Ligorn, and somewhat better. Secondly, The Weab, 18 whereof make a Coffice. And thirdly, The Saw, 12 whereof make a Weab.

Their liquid Measure is of two sorts, viz. the Wine-Meetar,, and the Oyl-Meetar; the latter whereof being just twice as big as the former, contains near five English Gallons.

The principal Commodities that this place doth afford are Hides, Wool, Wax, Honey, Oyl, Corn, Dates, Raisins, Anniseeds, Estrich Feathers, and Spunges, &c.

The Commodities vended here, are English and Venice Cloth, Lead, Shot, Deal boards, Per∣petuanoes, Latten-Plates, Sea horse Teeth, Cloves, Pepper, Ginger, Saffron, Cinnamon, Nut∣megs, Tartar, Allum, Spanish Wool, Sassaperilla, Cocheneel, Gold-thread di Genoa, Cotton Yarn and Wool, French Canvas, Gumlock, Madder, Iron, Wire, Iron of Bilbo, Genoa, and Venice Paper, Damask and Satten of Luca, &c.

The Custom of this Countrey upon all Commodities imported (excepting Lead, Shot and Iron, which pay no Custom at all) is 9 per cent, upon the real value sold: whereof lest the Merchant should defraud the Customers, a Broker hath been formerly appointed continually to attend on the Merchants, to keep an exact account of what Goods they receive and sell, and to what value: But of late years this hath been discontinued, confiding (as it should seem) more in the English, than heretofore they were wont: Yet still there are Officers ap∣pointed to take an Account of all Goods come ashore in general; and before you can expose them to sale, an exact Account of every Commodity in particular. Other charges of Goods Im∣ported, besides freight (of which there is no certain rate) are about 8 per cent. more, viz. 2 per cent. Gonsolage, 5 per cent. Provision and Brokerage, and about 1 per cent. for petty charges.

Customs on Goods Exported (excepting Hides, Wax, and Wools, which pay no Custom) is 5 per cent.

All Edible things, as Corn, Pease, Beans, Oyl, Butter, Honey, Dates, &c. and the like, are Contra-banda Commodities. Yet not seldom by the help of Presents, License may be procured for Transportation thereof: Importation of all Goods is allowed of.

To conclude, This place is of no great importance for Commerce, vending but a small quan∣tity of Goods; wherewith having for some years past been glutted, (this Market being soon over-cloyed) hath been found to yield little benefit to the late Traders; and less encouragement to the English Factory, whom (if more than one house be setled) this place will even starve, if they be honest: for no great quantity of any Commodity is to be provided.

CHAP. XVI. Of ARGIER, and the Trade thereof.

ARGIER contains only two Towns of note, Tremesin once the principal of a Kingdom, and Argier the principal now of this Countrey, not found to be very spacious in its self, but strong, and of late much fortified; inriched not only by the labour of the Moors banished out of Spain, but also by the spoils of many Merchants of all Nations, brought thither as the retreat and receptacle of all Turkish and Moorish Pirates, which do much infest the Mediter∣ranean Seas, and of late years have found the way out of the Straights of Gibraltar into the Ca∣nary Islands, and into sundry other Countreys bordering upon the Ocean. In it are accounted eighty thousand souls, the utmost part of them living by Piracies. Merchandizing is not much in use in this City; yet some of the Inhabitants are found to detest this common ill-gotten Gain, by Piracy and Theft: and these are observed to maintain some Trade with other Nations along the Coast. What points necessary thereto, according as I noted there in 1619. I shall here set down: and first their Commodities vended thence to forein parts, are such as fol∣loweth:

The Commodities this Kingdom affords is, Barbary Horses, Estrich Feathers, Honey, Wax, Raisins, Figs, Dates, Oyls, Almonds, Castile Sope, Brass, Copper, and some Drugs: and last∣ly, excellent Piratical Rascals, in great quantity, and poor miserable Christian captives of all Nations too too many, God give them comfort, patience, and release in due time, if it be his Blessed Will.

Their Coins passing current here in Trade is the Double, which is accounted to hold corre∣spondence in value with the English Shilling, or rather two Spanish Rials single.

Four Doubles is 1 ℞ ••/8, called there an Osian.

Five Doubles and 35 Aspers is a Pistolet of Spain.

Seven Doubles is accounted a Sultany or Chequeen, the common piece of Gold found current in all Barbary.

Fifty Aspers is accounted to make a Double; and these are the usual Coins passable in all this Coast belonging to this Kingdom.

The 100 l. or Rotolos here is 120 l. English, so that their 84 l makes 100 l. Sutle, and 94 l. or Rotolos is 112 l. English, according to the custom of Valentia in Spain, from whence it is conceived they have drawn this original of Weights: they are observed to have two several Weights, the proportion being 10 l. of the small making. 6 l. of the gross.

But here sundry Commodities are found to be weighed by sundry Cantars, as Iron, Lead, Yarn, and all Woolls are weighed by a Cantar of 150 Rotolos of the Rotolos above specified.

Raisins, Figs, Butter, Honey, Dates, Oyl, Soap by the Cantar of 166 Rotolos abovesaid.

Almonds, Cheese, Cottons, by the Cantar of 110 Rotolos.

Brass, Copper, Wax, and all Drugs by the Cantar of 100 Rotolos.

And Flax is weighed by the Cantar to contain 200 Rotolos.

Gold, Silver, Pearls and Gems are weighed by the mitigal, which is worth there 9 doubler, and is 72 gr. English, and the soltany, chequeen or hungar weighs 52 gr. English, being accoun∣ted equal to Angel Gold, and worth in England circa 3 l. 11 s. per ounce, Troy Weight, or thereabouts.

They use in Argier two picos or measures, the Turkish and Morisco, the Morisco pics being the measure of the Countrey, and is ¾ of the Turkish, by which is sold all Linnen only.

The Turkish pico is divided into 16 parts, and every ⅜ part is called a Robo, and is 〈◊〉〈◊〉 part of an English-yard, which with the allowance of an inch, according to our custom in England, hath been found to make 1½ picos turkisco, and by which all Silk Stuffs and Woollens are sold in this place.

Their dry measure is called a Tarrie, which heaped up, as they use it, is 5 gallons English, and so hath it been found to produce in Corn, Salt, and some such Commodities.

They keep their accompt in doubles and ossians, and some in soltanies and aspers, the coins of Barbary, 4 doubles making an ossian, and 50 aspers making a double.

Their Customs are here 10 per cent. as in Tunis, and paid upon the Commodity according to the value sold, and permission given to land; and if not sold, to be shipt again free of all du∣ties (as I said before) in the Kingdom of Tunis. And it is to be noted, a Ship entring here and Anchoring, must either land her Sails or her Rudder for prevention of running away without licence; which must be obtained in Duano, which is the common assembly of the Bashaw, who is Commander for the Grand Seignior, and of the principal Moors of the Kingdom and City, and then paying these duties with licence she is dismissed, viz. to the Kaiffa 28 doubles, to the Almaine 31 doubles, to the Captain Anchorage 15 doubles, to the Bashaw 8 doubles, to his Chiouse 4 doubles, to his Almin 8 doubles, to his Chouse 4 doubles, to the Bashaw Sorman 2 doubles, to the Druggerman 8 doubles, to the Sackagie 8 doubles; to the Consuls duty 42 doubles which in all make 162 doubles. And so much shall serve for Argier; now I sail along the Coast, and observe some Maritime Towns of note there seated.

CHAP. XVII. Of ORAN, and the Trade thereof.

ORAN is seated upon this Shore also, and of late in possession of the Spaniards, whose immunities to such as come hither to reside have made the place noted for some Traffick, especially for the Commodities of this Countrey, which hence are transported into Spain and Portugal, such as are Horses, Wax, and some years Corn in a great measure, as I have noted before.

The Coins current of Barbary, and which pass currently here, are those indifferently named before, and the Coins of the opposite shores of Spain.

It is found they have here four several weights: First, A quintar of 5 roves of 20 l. to a rove, which is 100 l. or rotolos: Secondly, A quintar of Spices of 4 roves of 25 l. per rove, which is 100 rotolos: Thirdly, A quintar for Corn, every quintar being only 6 rotolos: And lastly, A quintar for Cotton-wool, every quintar being 15 rotolos, the 100 l. of London makes in the first 90 rotolos; in the second 133 rotolos; in the third for Corn 48 rotolos; and in the last 58⅜ rotolos.

The Measures of ORAN are found to be principally two, the one being the pico Mo∣risco, the proper measure of the Countrey, agreeing with the measure of Argier before mentioned, and the other the Vare of Spain here used in Cloth, Silk, and such like, by the Spaniards.

CHAP. XVIII. Of UNA and the Trade thereof.

UNA is also seated upon this Coast, and dependeth for the most part, in matter of Trade, upon the inland Inhabitants; affording for Transportation the common Commo∣dities of Barbary; and by reason of the situation little known to our Nation, therefore I shall the more briefly pass over the same.

The Coins before mentioned are here current, only with little alteration, as also the same is found to be in Bona (anciently Hippona, the seat of St. Augustine that learned Father) in Cola, Tabaracha, Bugia, Constantine, and other Towns of Trade upon this Coast, therefore I will omit the repetition thereof, having all a reference in Trade one to the other.

But in weights they much differ; for here is found in use three several Quintals composed of one l. or Rotolo, one for Cotton-wool, another for Spices, and the third for Corn; thus agreeing with London.

The 100 l. of London makes 63 Rotolos for weight of Wool.

The 100 l. of London makes 72 Rotolos for weight of Spices.

The 100 l. of London makes 91 Rotolos in the weight of Corn.

All which is to be observed by him that trades into this Port, in the sale of these and the like Commodities.

The measure of length is here the pico Morisco, which generally is used in all Commodities and contains 26 inches English circa.

CHAP. XIX. The Trade in general of ARGIER and TUNIS.

THough these two Kingdoms of TUNIS and ARGIER do afford many fair Towns according to the manner of this Countrey, yet it is not found that the same doth produce many Merchants of quality or of great consideration. This tract of Land is found at present to belong to three several Inhabitants, the Moors as Proprietors enjoy the principal part; and these are found within themselves to acknowledge several Sovereigns, which not sel∣dom are at variance, sometimes amongst themselves, sometimes with their neighbours; and because of the liberty given here for entertainment and protection to all Nations; not only these Towns do harbour Levents, which we call Pirates. and they call natural Turks, but also Christians of all Countreys which hence with robberies infest these adjoyning Mediterranean Seas, add joyning themselves with the abovesaid Levents, make up a dissolute and resolute company of Sea-farers and Pirates; and because these are not sufficient to work any matters of moment alone to make their strength the greater, and their force the stronger, there is of their own accord added thereto the Tagarins, a poor, desperate and naked rascality, and the Spanish, Moors, or Moorish Spaniards of late years banished from the Kingdom of Spain, who willingly some in purse, and some in person, undertake these designs to be revenged of their banishment from their native Countreys, their case herein being most miserable; for whilst they lived in Spain they were accounted for Moors, and now being amongst the Moors are still doubted as Christians.

These last and some other Inhabitants of these Cities of Tunis and Argier, do still profess more civility than the common sort, and have some reliques of that honesty left them, which peradventure they brought with them hither out of Europe; and these are only they that in these Cities profess Merchandizing, and are found to use some Trade alongst this Coast from one part to another, and so to Marselia and Ligorn, Towns seated on the Christian opposite shore, enjoying many priviledges and immunities for Merchants of what Nation soever.

The Spaniards inhabiting in this Coast in sundry good and well fortified Towns, are the second that here bear sway; the Country for some certain miles in circuit over-awed by their Garrisons pay them Contribution; and it is supposed that the charges in maintaining these ex∣ceeds the gain yielded thereby, and here is but little Trade found.

The third sort I account the Genoese and the French Nations, who upon this Coast by permission of the State, do pay certain yearly Pensions, for admission of Trade, and have built themselves Fortresses and Castles for the defence of their Estates and Persons, and Ship∣ping; and these are now found the only Merchants inhabiting this Coast: here they have their scales for the Coral-fishing; for Honey, Wax, Corn, Hides, Horses, Spunges, and many other Com∣modities, which the Countrey-men willingly for love of their Spanish Plate do bring them in,

and here Traffick is made upon good terms and sure guard, buying and selling as they list to inhanse or debase the Commodities the either buy or fell: by which a great gain is yearly made unto them.

And this is as much as I conceive necessary in this point of Merchantile Traffick in these two Kingdoms and Cities of Tunis and Argier: but there is here a Piratical Trade also much practi∣sed by the people of these two places, who set out Vessels in partnerships and shares, to take Prizes or Gonimas, as they term them, which is ever performed by all manner of advantages without faith or promise either kept or regarded; which spoils have been so great and their booties so beneficial, that the desperate spirits of many of sundry Nations have come hither in hope to raise by rapine and theft, what else by honest courses they could not elsewhere compass: their manner of setting forth these Ships is upon a small cost, and done with little charge, con∣sidering the frugality in diet used in these Countreys, and their division at their return is com∣monly allotted, (as I observed in these parts when for some time I abode amongst them, and is still continued) ⅕ for the body of the Vessel, ⅓ for the Victuallers and setters out, and ⅓ for the Captain and his company; and this is truly and exactly made in species and kind, for they hardly admit a Commodity taken, or Slaves captivated to be sold at the Market, and the divi∣dend to be made in Money: but they (as I have often seen) will divide it in kind, as if a bag of Pepper, then by dishfuls, or a piece of Cloth or Linnen, then by proportional shares, according to their gross capacity, which custom I understand is since by their better judg∣ment rectified, and Merchants Ships warned by their losses of latter days, to go better arm'd, mann'd and provided; and seeing their prizes come in thinner, they are more provident in their division, though more venturous in their thefts. Argier in this kind hath been able to set out near 300 sail little and great in those times, now not a quarter so many: and Tunis then had 20 in 31 good sail, now it hath not a dozen: so that I may conclude their Trade de∣creaseth and daily diminisheth, which God of his goodness grant it may still do, to the Merchants comfort, and the Mariners joy: and thus leaving these two Piratical Kingdoms and Cities, with this Maritime Coast.

Sally is divided by a River into two Towns, called the Old and New; inhabited by the race of those Moors which were banished out of Spain, which profess the Mahometan Religion: It is commanded by a strong Castle well fortified, which commands the Harbour; Ships may ride in the open road without command; in fine, to 30 fathom water good Anchoring, all Vessels not drawing above 10 foot water may enter over the Bar into the Creek or Harbour, where they lie in safety fastened ashore: the Harbour will hold at least 100 Sail. Merchants for the most part that trade to this place, will not venture to carry their Goods on shore with∣out a Protection from the Governour, nor hardly then neither, because of the perfidiousness of the people; and therefore for the greater security trade on Ship-board with the Merchants of the Town, which are for the most part Jews of the worst sort.

They Coin Money in the Town, of Gold, Silver and Copper; their Gold is the Ducate, worth about 8 s. Sterling; their Silver is the Blanckhil, worth about 2 d. being the 48. part of their Ducate; their Copper Coin are Fluces, passing for the 20. part of the Blanckhil, or the 10. part of a penny Surling. All Coins of Spain, the French Crown, the Venice Chequin are payable here; and indeed the Coin of all Nations of Gold and Silver are here passable by weight for their value.

Their Weights are those for the most as in Spain.

Their Measure for Corn is an Armudo, about 5 to our Bushel. Their long Measure a Brace about 18 Inches.

Their Commodities are chiefly Cow-Hides, Goat-Skins, Wax, Honey, Oyl, Dates.

Commodities carried thither are several sorts of Cloth, both Linnen and Woollen; great quantities of Fire-lock Muskets, Pistols, Knives, and Iron-work of all sorts.

CHAP. XX. Of the Kingdom of FESSE, and the Provinces thereof.

FESSE is is divided into 7 Provinces, which borroweth their names from the Towns seated therein; the first is Hamlisnon, seated in the mountainous part of this Kingdom; the se∣cond is Seuta, now in the possession of the Spaniard, having a Town of this name strongly by them fortified; the third is Tangier, a City also fortified and belonging likewise to them; the fourth is Mehenes; the fifth Arguer; the sixth is Alcaser, (near to which the three Kings, Sebastian of Portugal, Mahomet of Fesse, and Abdelmelech of Morocco, competitors for this Kingdom, were slain in one day, together with many others of eminent quality; and Stuckley that famous in∣famous English Rebel in An. 1578.) and seventh FESSE the Metropolis, which for its great∣ness merits a more serious consideration.

CHAP. XXI. Of the City FESSE, and the Trade thereof.

THis City bears the name of Fesse, from the abundance of Gold, (as Writers record) that was found in digging the Foundation thereof; it is beautified with many goodly Build∣ings both publick and private; it is divided by the River Sabu into three parts, containing in all 82000 Housholds, having 700 Moschs or Temples, 50 of them being adorned with Pillars of Alabaster and Jasper; and one seated in the heart of the City called Carucen, is the most sumptuous, containing a mile in compass, in breadth cantaining 17 Arches, in length 120, and born up by two thousand five hundred white Marble Pillars, under the chiefest Arch (where the Tribunal is kept) hangeth a most huge Lamp of Silver, incompassed with 110 lesser; un∣der every the other Arches hang also very great Lamps, in each of which burn 150 Lights: it hath 31 Gates great and high; the Roof is 150 yards long, and 80 yards broad, and round about are divers Porches containing 40 yards in length, and 30 in breadth, under which are the publick Store-houses of the Town: about the Walls are Pulpits of divers sorts, wherein the Masters of their Law read to the people such things as they imagine appertain to their salva∣tion: the Revenues thereof in Anno 1526, was 200 Ducates a day of old rent, accounted 100 l. sterling; until the late Civil Wars it was a City of great Traffick, and many Merchants of di∣vers Nations resorted hither, and were allowed a publick Meeting-place for their Commerce, and lodging for their residence, being in form of a Court or Exchange, inclosed with a strong Wall, with 12 Gates, and limited with 15 Streets for several Nations to meet for their business, and for the laying up of their Commodities; and every night for security of their Goods and Persons, the same was kept guarded at the Cities charge, resembling the Besistens or Canes now in use in Turkey and other Southern Countreys.

There is here also divers Colleges where the Sciences are taught, amongst which Madorac is the chief, and accounted for one of the excellentest Pieces for Workmanship in all Barbary! It hath three Cloysters of admirable beauty, supported with eight squares Pillars of divers colours; the Roof curiously carved, and the Arches of Mosaique of Gold and Azure; the Gates are of Brass fair wrought, and the Doors of the private Chambers of in-laid work: It is recorded that this Colledge did cost the Founder King Abuchenen, 480 thousand Sultanies in Gold, which is in English Money 192 thousand pound; which would hardly in these days, were it now to be built, perform the twentieth part thereof, and this was not above 150 years past; and about that time Henry the Seventh King of England did build that sumptuous Chappel in Westminster; which as I have been informed, did in those days co•• 7448 l. and let it be judged by Artists, how much more would build the fellow of it in these our days.

They have also here for the commodity and pleasure of the Citizens 600 Conduits, from whence almost every house is served with water; besides what goeth to their religious uses, at the entries of their Temples and Moschs: but I have staid too long in surveying this City, I will now see what Commodities and Merchandize this Kingdom affords.

The Commodities found in general, as well in the Kingdom of Fesse as of Morocco, and found transportable for Merchandize, is Fruits of all kinds, such as is principally of Dates, Al∣monds, Figs, Raisins, Olives; also Honey, Wax, Gold, and sundry sorts of Hides, and Skins, espe∣cially that excellent sort of Cordovant from this Kingdom of Morocco called Maroquins, famoused throughout Spain, France, and Italy; also Corn, Horses, Wools, whereof the Inhabitants are ob∣served of late days to make some Cloath: here is found also for Merchandize fabricated here some sorts of Stuffs of Silks, as Sattins, Taffataes, and some sorts of Linnen, much in use in this Coun∣trey, made partly of Cotton, and partly of Flax, and divers other Commodities.

The Moneys of this Kingdom, and generally of all the Kingdoms of Morocco, is the Xeriff or Ducate in Gold, deriving the name thereof from the Xeriffs, who within these few years made conquest of these Kingdoms, under Pretext and colour of the Sanctity of their Religion, and is accounted to be about ten shillings sterling Money, divided into 8 parts, and esteemed ⅛ each part, which may be compared to be about 14 d. in 15 d. sterling.

They keep their Accounts in these places by Ducates, or old Xeriffs, now almost out of use, divided into 8 parts, accounted in common value, but 12 d. every ⅛, though worth more, as above is declared.

Their Weight here is two, one used in all ordinary Commodities, which is the Rorolo, contain∣ing (.) ounces or drams, it having been found by observation, that the 100 l. Averdupois, Lon∣don, hath made here 64 Rotolos, and 100 Rotolos is here a Cantar. The second Weight is here the Mitigal, used in the weighing of Silver, Gold, Pearl, Musk, and the like, agreeing with the Mitigal used in Argier and Tunis spoken of before.

The common Measure for length is here the Covado, 12 whereof is accounted to a Cane: and it hath been observed by Barbary Merchants hither trading, that the 100 Yards of London make here about 181 or 182 Covadoes.

The Customs of Fesse and Morocco are paid at the entrance thereinto, as is likewise due at the entrance of any other the Cities of this Kingdom, and is by the Subjects Natives upon all Com∣modities paid two in the hundred, and by all Strangers ten in the hundred, collected for what is sold or landed without leave, for Exportation again if once landed; which causeth divers of our Merchants bound for those parts to make their Ships their Shops, and consequently land so much of their Commodities as they imagine their Market will vend, and no more. But because the Kingdom of Morocco obeyeth the same Rules in matters of Trade, I will speak a word of that place likewise, and then survey the Trade of them both together as they are known now to us, to be as it were but one, though indeed different Kingdoms,

CHAP. XXII. Of the Kingdom of MOROCCO, and the Provinces thereof.

THE Kingdom of Morocco, once of great splendor, is now divided into six Provinces, the first Tangovista, having a Town also of that name: Fisidet is the second, which giveth name likewise to a Province; the third is Massa, the principal of a Province abounding in Amber. Alarach is the fourth, fortified and kept by the only Garrison of this Countrey. The fifth is Taradant, in times past the second in this Kingdom, and the principal for Traffick, ruined by the late Wars, whereunto yet the resort is commonly made by many English and French for Commerce. The sixth and last is Morocco the Metropolis, of which a word according to my in∣tended Method.

CHAP. XXIII. Of the City MOROCCO, and the Trade thereof.

MOROCCO is the chief City of this Kingdom, and in times past was accounted the Metropolis of all Barbary, as once containing one hundred thousand housholds, but now inferiour to Fesse in beauty, spaciousness and populousness: it is strongly walled about, and within adorned with many private and publick Edifices, the chief being the Castle or Arsenal, and the Churches, or Moschs; one whereof is bigger, though not so beautiful as that of Fesse, seated in the midst of the City, and built by Hali their King, augmented 50 fathom in spaciousness by Abdullmumen and Mansor his Son, with many exquisite Pillars brought from Spain; he also covered the same with Lead, and made a Cistern of the same greatness, as this Temple was to receive the Rain-water that came therefrom; besides which he made therein a Tower of Masonry in form of the Roman Colossus, equal in height to the famous Tower in Bolonia, which being ascended, the Hills of Asaffi, being 130 miles distant, may be easily discerned. The Castle is also very large and strong, of the bigness of a reasonable Town, in the midst whereof is a Temple, which hath a Tower, whereon is fixed a Spindle of Iron, passing through three great round Globes made of pure Gold, and weighing 130 thousand Bar∣bary Ducates, which is 58500 l. sterling, which divers Kings have gone about to take down and convert into Money; but have all desisted, by reason of some strange mis-fortune that hath been inflicted on them, so that the common people imagine they are kept by a Guard of Spirits.

They have here also a Burse for Merchants, which is now taken up by Artisans, the late Civil Wars having eclipsed the glory of the famous Trade that was seated in this Countrey, which in its former splendour was found to have several Streets for several Artsmen, and no one Artsman permitted to make his abiding but amongst those of his own Profession.

The Commodities of this Kingdom are the same as in the Kingdom of Fesse, spoken of before, save that the same abounds more in Sugars, especially in Taradant, where divers Merchants are found to reside purposely for that Commodity, from whence it is Exported into other Regions.

The Coins current is also the Xeriff common with Fesse, and all these parts of Barbary, and by some called the Ducate of Gold, having eight divisions or parts, esteemed to be about nine shillings and four pence sterling, each ⅛ worth fourteen pence sterling.

They are found here to have two several Quintals, one that doth accord with the Quintal of Fesse, specified formerly; and the other which doth agree with the Quintal of Sevil, which

may be seen more at large in the ensuing Tract, and there it may be observed, how the same doth agree with the weight of London, and other places; besides which it is observable, that sundry Commodities are weighed by this Quintal, yet comprehending more or less Ro∣tolos, according to the custom in sale of that Commodity, which the Merchants must learn to know.

The Measure of length here is also Covado, agreeing with that of Fesse, as you shall find in the Chapter before touched.

The Customs of Morocco are the same as specified in the Kingdom of Fesse, at the entrado 2 per cent. by the Subject, and 10 per cent. by the Merchant stranger: But the Civil Wars have given a period to that famous Traffick here maintained by the Barbary Merchants of London, which from this Kingdom had its original, and which flourished in the days of Queen Eli∣zabeth; the faction, dissention, and banding for this Kingdom and Fesse, overthrew that Company, from whose ashes and dissolution, arose the Society of Merchants trading into the Levant Seas, known by the name of the Turkie Company, which now we find to be grown to that heighth; that (without comparison) it is the most flourishing and most beneficial Com∣pany to the Common-wealth of any in England of all other whatsoever; into whose Patent was at first inserted the Eastern-Indies, as only proper to their Navigation, which within few years after being by way of Turkey better discovered, and gathering thereby new strength, it was in the beginning of King James's Reign incorporated a Society by it self; and for incouragement to Adventurers in consideration of the length of the Voyage, and of the great charges and dangers incident thereto, it was permitted that all men of what Quality and Profession soever, might be Adventurers therein, and be admitted thereunto, contrary to the Custom and Priviledge of the Turkey, and said Barbary Company, and of all other Societies of Merchants, who admit not any to be a Member thereof, but such as are meer Merchants, and none others.

The Trade of these Countreys by reason of their discontent is almost come now to no∣thing, every Town and Province for the most part acknowledging a several Sovereign; and where Peace and Unity is wanting, Trade must decay. Some good Ports these two Kingdoms are found to enjoy for Traffick, as Tituan within the Streights, Tangier and Ceuta at the Streights mouth, Larache, Maxinara, Sali the old and new, a second Argier, and sure recepta∣cle for Pirates, lately reduced to better conformity with the English Subjects by the valour of some English, under the fortunate and happy conduct of Captain William Rainsborough, to whose worth Powe this particular remembrance: Assasse, Mogador, and Santa Crux, with some others; and lastly, Taradant the only Mart of all these Countreys, seated upon the River of Sens, in a spacious Plain between the Mountain Atlas and the Sea, abounding with Sugar, and all other kind of Provision; the good regard and continual abode that Mahomet Xeriffe, one of their late Sovereigns made in this place, hath greatly augmented and ennobled this Town; the Observations upon the present Trade thereof, I am constrained by reason of my ignorance, to refer to another hand.

CHAP. XXIV. Of Numidia and Lybia, and the Provinces thereof.

NUmidia hath on the East Aegypt, on the West the Atlantique Ocean. on the North Atlas, on the South Lybea: It will not be material to relate the Provinces, for in them are found but few Towns, by reason of the yearly progress of the Inhabitants from place to place in Families and Tribes; the Countrey abounding in Dates, the food here of Man and Beast.

Lybia hath on the East Nilus, on the West the Atlantique Ocean, on the North Numidia, and on the South the Land of Negroes; the Countrey altogether sandy, barren, and a Desert, the Inhabitants altogether Heathenish, and therefore not worthy the conversation of a civil Mer∣chant, or the residence of any Commerce.

CHAP. XXV. Of NEGRITA, or the Land of Negroes, and the Trade thereof.

THis Land of Blackmoors, hath on the East Aethiopia Superior, on the West the At∣lantique Ocean, on the North Lybia, on the South Manicongo; in this tract of ground is accounted twenty five Kingdoms or Provinces, through which runneth the famous River of

Niger or Sanega, in whose over-flowing consisteth the welfare of the Inhabitants; even as in Aegypt it doth by the Inundation of Nilus; for this (as that) increaseth for forty days, and decreaseth for forty days more, during which time the Inhabitants fail over the whole Land in Boats and Barges.

This whole Tract principally now acknowledgeth three Sovereigns, which is the Kingdom of Tombutu, the Kingdom of Borneo, and the Kingdom of Goaga; each Kingdom giving name to a City the principal residence of the Kings. The City of Tombutu lieth beyond the River of Sanega or Niger, wherein is found a Trade driven by many French, Dutch and English Merchants; the manner thereof, and the matter wherewith I shall hereafter as well as I can particularize. Four hundred miles from Tombutu is the City of Goaga, wherein are found eminent Merchants, and precious and sumptuous Merchandize of all sorts. Borneo is the third, the Inhabitants where∣of are better versed in breeding of Cattle, than in the Art of Commerce, and better read in Mars than Mercury.

The Commodities of these Countreys, are Corn, Sugars, Cattel, Horses, Rice, Fruits, Gold in Sand, which they term Siga, and we Tibur; and also in Ingots without Sovereign stamp or character, and is distinguished by its fineness and goodness, which the Inhabitants by way of Exchange do Barter with their Neighbours and other forein Nations, against Cloaths, Linnens, Callico's, Basons of Copper, Iron-work, Sword-blades, Hand-Guns, Glasses, Beads, and such like, and principally against Salt, which of all other Commodities this Countrey is most de∣fective in, and in some places affords not, and therefore pays for it at an excessive dear price to Strangers.

The Trade of all this Tract, such as it is now in these days known to our Nation, is com∣prised alongst the Sea-Coast, which the Portugals by reason of their former Plantation here, and rich Commerce, have entitled the Golden Coast, and we in common appellation, term the Trade of the Coast of Genin and Benin, two of the principal Provinces Maritime, that are found included within the Circuits of these three before-mentioned Kingdoms: which Trade that it may be a little better understood, I shall more particularly survey, according to some Obser∣vations made by some hands thereon.

In the beginning and discovery of this maritime Coast, (for thereto I intend to apply the Trade of this Country) the Portugals were the first that ranged this Shore, and had some small knowledge of their Commodities and of the manner of trading with them, who partly by fair means, and partly by Constraint got footing in this Sea-coast, building Forts in some, and placing Garrisons and Factories in others, which then was found so Golden and beneficial to that Country, that it is conceived this only thing (as what will not Gold attract) drew them to search further the Maritime Coast of this Tract all along to Cape bona Esperansa, and so consequently thereby unto the East-Indies: fair quarter and courteous usage being then per∣ceived in these Forts and Towns thus subjected to the Portugals, drew the Inhabitants and Countrey-men to a fair and ordinary commutation and exchanging of Commodities with them, which according to the custom of that Kingdom, was maintained by Factors appointed for the King's particular account in every Port and Town, as if he intended to make the profits of Merchandizing to defray the charges of his Conquest and Garrisons, furnishing them with Salt, Iron, Tin, Copper, Basons, Knives, Cloth, Linnen, and other European Commodities; recei∣ving in exchange partly the Commodities proper for their nourishment, such as was Cattle, Corn, Rice, and the like; and principally Commodities beneficial, as Gold it self in great abundance both in Sand and Ingots melted, which gave a quickning and life to the further discoveries of those Countreys and continuance of the Trade, which is found there maintained to this day, though in a far lesser manner.

The English and other Nations afterwards desirous to share in this rich Trade, failed within a short time likewise hither; and because they had not such Places and Forts for their Ware hou∣ses, and the Protection of their Persons and Goods, therefore would not, or else might not with safety land their Commodities without danger of the falshood of the Portugals, or treachery of the Inhabitants: therefore at first failing hither were compelled to Anchor alongst the Coast nearest to the best Towns, and of greatest concourse, and signifie to the Inhabitants the Com∣modities they had brought to utter, drew at length by their fair demeanour and courteous usage the Moors to come aboard their Ships, and bring their Gold with them; the manner of which Trade (as being different from any other Country) I shall briefly set down.

In the morning betimes, having for the most part then the Wind off the shore, and calm weather, the Moors came aboard in their Canoes and Scuts to traffique. some for them∣selves, and some which they call Tolkens or Factors for others, who carry at their Girdles a Purse, wherein small Clouts or Papers containing sometimes 10 several mens Gold are wrapped and laid up; which though it should be of one and the same weight and goodness, they not∣withstanding readily distinguish, and having made their Barters for Cloath, Linnens, or the like, at noon return with the Sea-turn, or as they call it, the Brise, again to the shore; and

besides their Bargains covenanted, these Factors have some small thing for themselves as the reward of their pains by way of Brokage or Factorage, which they called by the name of Dachio.

But in process of time the Netherlanders frequenting this Coast, and well acquainted with the manner of this English Traffick; and coming into the same parts where the English traded and were known, were the first that spoiled this Golden Trade, partly by their sinister dealing, and partly by their undermining and fraudulent tricks; for they coming to Anchor together with the English to sell their Commodities, and finding that the English vended more Wares, and had a larger Traffick by the concourse of the native Merchants from ashore, with these Tolkens above-mentioned, than they had, hired these Pilots, Boat-men and Tolkens (that were thus employed, to carry their Passengers and Merchants aboard) under-hand to carry them aboard their Dutch Ships, and not aboard the English, and so to trade with them only; which the English at last perceiving and smelling out their craft, were by the same craft com∣pelled to prevent the same; so that by this means the one out-vying the other, these fellows for their good will and Brokage have by this means drawn the duty or rather courtesie of Da∣chia, to 6 in 7 per cent. to the prejudice of all Traders upon this Coast: but this rested not here, for this dealing drew on a greater inconvenience in their Trade, for when the Flemmings had first been the Authors of this ill custom or courtesie of Dachio to these Boat-men and Tolkens, which necessarily were by all succeeding European Merchants to be imitated, or their Voyage lost, and their Commodities remain unsold: It was found that many Merchant Moors, Inland∣men, coming to the Sea-side to buy Wares of them, bringing great store of Gold with them for Traffick, and having divers Slaves, some 20, some 30, and some more according to their means and Trade, to carry back those Wares they had thus bought on Ship-board, and these Moorish Merchants taking their Lodgings in the Houses of these Tolkens, and using to acquaint them with their full Commissions and Intents, and then receiving of them their Gold, repaired aboard the Ships to Trade and Barter; and if the Moorish Merchants were not skilled in the Portugal Tongue, those Tolkens would presently tell the Flemmings, and desire them not to speak Morisco to them, because their Merchants were such as dwelt far within the Land; thereby giving them to understand that they meant by this Watch-word to deceive him, and afterward to share those so ill-gotten purchases amongst them: and it did, nor doth it seldom fall out, but that the Merchant Moor, not accustomed to the Sea, lies Sea-sick aboard, all the while the knavish Tolken makes his Bargain for him with the crafty Dutch, conniving at the Flemmings great inhansed prices of his Commodities, to draw the greater gain and more Gold from the Moor; whom sometimes he cozens by stealing some of his Gold, and put it into his mouth, ears, or otherwise; which the Moor finding by the Scale and Weight to want, adds some more knavery thereto, by blowing into the Christians Scale and Ballance to make it weight; and when all these his intended Bargains are finished, and the Moor again landed, the Tolkens and Boats-men return again aboard to divide the cozened profit and ill-gotten gain between them, wherein it may be imagined that the Flemming for his part of the knavery and connivance must have a share of the gains; which hath proved such a hindrance and detriment to the English and other Christians that Trade upon this Coast, that unless they also connive at the Tolkens Villany and deceit as the Dutch do, their Voyage will be lost, and their Commo∣dities to their prejudice remain unsold; this is in brief the manner of their Trade, the means now follow.

As for their Customs due to the Kings and Sovereigns upon this Coast, it is found to vary in divers Ports and Havens, and only paid by Inhabitants in case the Christian bring not his Goods ashore to sell, every Haven having a peculiar Officer, and every Merchant that cometh with an intent to buy Wares at a Port-Town, payeth a Toll or small Custom for his Person, though he buy nothing; and that no deceit may be used in the Collector, there is ever a Sen or some near Kinsman of that Prince, joined in Authority with the said Collector, or Cu∣stomer; and if the Merchant buy any Commodities aboard a Ship for less than two ounces of Gold at a time, then he must compound with the Customer for the Custom as he can at his pleasure, as that which is the Customers own profit, fee, and wages: but if he buy above two ounces of Gold which they call a Benda, then the Custom is an Angel of Gold for every Benda, as I am gi∣ven to understand.

I have shewed that Coins acknowledging any Sovereignty by stamp are not here in use, but Gold passable either in Sands or Ingots, according to the fineness and goodness is the current Coin passable, which our Merchants very well distinguish by 24 artificial Needles made by allay of Metals, from the lowest sort of Gold to the finest of 24 Carots fine, having exact Rules for the valuation thereof, accordingly as the same is found either in fineness or courseness: nei∣ther use they any Money, or any kind of minted Coin wherewith to pay each other; but when any Commodity is bought, the payment thereof is made with Gold, and that likewise by weight; and it must be a very small parcel that hath not some kind of weight to distinguish and weigh it

withal, and they pay each other with four square pieces of Gold, weighing some a grain, and some half a grain: and about Mina a Castle of the Portugals, they pay each other with Kaco∣rawns, which is Gold drawn out into Wire, and cut afterward into small pieces for all trivial Commodities; and in other places with little pieces of Iron of a finger in length, with some Characters stamped thereon; and in some places they have not the Art of melting their Gold, but sell it, or rather pay it one to another in Sand by weight, according as they shall agree both in the value and in the quantity.

The Weights are made of Copper of divers sorts, and have little round Copper Scales, like a hollow Orange Pill for Gold.

A Bend•• is the greatest weight, and weighs two ounces.

A Benda Offa is half a Benda, and is an ounce.

Asseva is two Pesos and a half.

Egebba is two Pesos, and accounted half an ounce, or the fourth part of a Benda.

Seron is accounted for one Peso and a half.

Eusanno is accounted a Peso.

Quienta is three quarters of a Peso.

Each Peso is held a Loot.

Mediataba is a quarter of a Peso.

Agiraque is half a Peso, so that by those that have made the trial of their weights with ours, they have found them to be in every pound Troy a Peso and a half in every pound heavier than our Troy pound used in England; and this weight is the Rule for their Gold in passing for Com∣modities: where note, that all Countreys have not in this and other these large Coasts Moneys current of Metal as we have in Christendom; for in some parts of Aethiopia their Money is Pepper, in Tombutu and about the River Niger, their Money is Cockles or Shell-fish, in Azanah their Mo∣ney is Porcellette, in Bengala Porcelete and Metal together, as in China they use Porcelette for Money, and in some other places of India, Paper stamped with the King's Seal passeth for current Mony; and in some places the Barks of certain Trees called Gelsamora, and in Congo and many places of these Countreys Lumach, and in Angela, Beads of Glass, and such like in many other places.

Their Measure for length in Cloth or other Commodities, is a Jactam, which is accounted with us 12 foot, or two fathom, which they cut the one from the other, and in that sort sell their Linnen the one to the other; and those two fathom by trial of the Dutch make a stork and three quarters, but in Woollen they never measure above peices of one handful broad, which they so cut off and use for Girdles, which they wear about their middles, and sell it among themselves in this manner in these pieces abovesaid, and use no other kind of measure which they call a Paw, which is ¾ 1 d. English.

The Inhabitants of this Coast at the first trading here of the Portugals, were very rude and ignorant, and were easily beguiled in all the Commodities which they sold them; and not only took in good part the badness of the Ware they received, but were also deceived in their mea∣sure; the Portugals by this means putting off their rotten Linnens, rusty Knives, broken and patched Basons, pieced Kettles, and such like, and these at what measure, value, weight, and quantity they pleased for their Gold: but the times are now altered, and they by their usual sufferings in this kind by the Portugals, made the more wary, provident and circumspect in their Traffick with the English, French, and Dutch: so that in those Commodities which they buy or barter, ei∣ther for their own use, or for Merchandize, they are found to have as good judgment in them as the Sellers themselves.

Their ignorance in Trade may be judged by their ignorance in Accompting and Reckoning, for when they have past the number of Ten, they rehearse so many words one after another for one number, that they are so puzzled and cumbred therewith, that they cannot tell how to get out, and so sit buzzing so long, till at last they have lost their Tale, and forgot their number, and so are forced to begin to tell again: but since they began to trade with the English, and were to reckon above the number of Ten, for they use no more amongst them, they reckon on till they come to Ten, and then take one of their fingers into their hands, and then tell to Ten again; and then take another finger into their hand, and so proceed till they have both their hands full, which in all maketh one hundred, then they mark that up, and then begin to tell as at the first, and use the same order as before.

To conclude this Traffick, and to leave this Coast, I hear not in these days that the English frequenting that Coast, or that the French or Dutch make any great benefit thereby: for the present subtilty of the Inhabitants, perceiving how their Gold is sought eagerly after by them and all Nations, can now adays set such a rate thereon by this their manner of Exchange and Barter, and that by being so often beguiled by others, they are now grown more wary and circumspect in their Bargaining, and are as ready to beguile the Beguilers, as to be beguiled themselves; for they look now narrowly both to their Measure and the goodness of their Com∣modity; and though at the first they knew no distinction of Christians, but took the Portugals

and all white men to be of one Nation; yet since they know each Nation, and are acquainted with their particular manners and manner of dealing, having ever hitherto from the beginning found the fai••est and squarest Trade with the English, therefore when they come, they are the best welcome to them, and speed best of any other Nations whatsoever with them.

I willingly omit here to speak of the Sugar Trade, and of the plenty of Sugar Canes grow∣ing upon this Coast: the King of Bortugal here in certain places farming the fole Trade thereof to certain his own Subjects, with a strict proviso, that the same be sold to none other but to his own Subjects, and that Provision to be sent only for Lisbon, to gain a great Custom thereby imposed thereon; therefore the Portugal being here the only buyer and ingrosser, the Inhabi∣tants must and are inforced to fell only to them, and at what reasonable rate they best can agree upon; and this restraint of this Commodity hath drawn the Dutch to build and fortifie in some places upon this Coast, as now of late they have done at Mina opposite to the Spaniard, where they are at continual variance, the River only parting them.

CHAP. XXVI. Aethiopia Superiour and Inferiour, and the Provinces thereof.

AEThiopia the Superiour is known to us by the name of Abasine, and comprehendeth many large Provinces and Kingdoms, and contains the Springs of three famous Rivers, Abas, T•…•…iasis and Nilus, arising out of the Lake Zembre; being for the most part Christians, and com∣manded by that so much renowned Emperour Prester John; affording for Commodities to the neighbour Regions, Rice, Barley, Pease, Sugars, Minerals of all sorts, Goats, Sheep, and Oxen: but because these Towns of these Provinces are for the most part in Land, they afford no great matter of Trade, and as little known to our Nation, I willingly omit them.

CHAP. XXVII. Of Aethiopia Inferiour, and the Provinces thereof.

AEThiopia Inferiour, hath the Red-Sea on the East, the Aethiopian Ocean on the West, the Land of Negro's on the North, and the Southern Ocean on the South, commonly di••ided into these parts, Aian, Zanbar, Monomotapa, Caffaria, Monicongo.

In Aian, are upon the Sea-coasts these three Cities much frequented by Merchants, Arar, Zeila, Barbera, the second of which was sacked by the Portugals in Anno 1516. and is found to abound with Flesh, Honey, Wax, Corn, Gold, Ivory and Cattel; especially Sheep in plenty.

Zanibar contains 15 Towns that give names to 15 several Kingdoms, the chief for Trade is Quiloa, where the Portugals have Forts built and fortified Anno 1509. Mosambique also forti∣fied by them. Soffola, which for the abundance of Ivory and Gold is conceived to be the Land of Ophir, to which Solomon sent by his three years Voyage.

Monomotapa contains also sundry Provinces invironed almost round with waters, and abound∣ing with Mines of Gold, accounted to contain above 2000, the principal being three, Monica, Brro, and Quitiana; which yields not any Commodity else save Elephants Teeth, to procure which, it is supposed 5000 are yearly slain in these Kingdoms.

Capharia, hath nothing famous in it, save that famous and noted head-land Cape bona spe∣ranza, discovered by the Portugals in Anno 1497.

Manicongo was discovered by the Portugals 1486, and by them then converted to the Popish Religion, which the Inhabitants soon forsook, as peradventure seeing that that Religion was made the Cloak of their Conquest, yielding yearly 30000 Slaves in sale to the Portugals, which they carry to Brasile to work in their Silver Mines; the Trade of the principal of these it is fit I should in this place more particularly handle.

CHAP. XXVIII. Of Mosambique, and the Trade thereof.

THe Sea-coast affording the prime places of Traffick known to our Countreymen in this large Tract of Land before-mentioned, and especially from Cape-bona-esperanze, to the entrance of the Red-Sea, which now cometh to be handled, it will not be fitting I should wholly omit the Trade thereof, before I have better surveyed the same, together with those Towns of Traffick as are found to be there most eminent, and therewith relate the manner how, and the matter whereof this Trade is here maintained and preserved; I will then include the Trade of this whole Coast under the Title of Mosambique, as being the principal Town of Negotiation found alongst this shore, having Soffola on the one side thereof, and Quiloa on the other side: all which being fortisied by the Portugals, the first Christian Discoverers thereof, give yet that liber∣ty and freedom to the Country Inhabitants and others to exercise the same that would, and con∣sidering their manner of Traffick, it is seen plentifully stored both with the native Commodities of the Coast it self, and of the In-land Countries; there are here found the Towns of Cuama, Se∣na, Macava, Brava, Melinda, and others along this shore, seated some on the Coast of Abex, and some on the Coast of Melinda; but Quiloa for the commodiousness of the River, and the pas∣sage into the Main Continent, having but a short cut into the Lake of Zaflan, in which there ariseth a great River, that runneth into Nilus, and so to Cairo, and therefore the same is ac∣counted the principal City for eminency and concourse of people, though for Traffique this and the rest give place (if the Spanish Relations be true) to Mosambique, wherein is found the first Fortress that was built by the Portugals on this Coast and Seas.

Mosambique then is not only the name of an Island, but also of a Kingdom, seated between Monomotapa and Quiloa; the Island is sound to have a pretty Town seated upon it, and to∣gether with the Islands of Saint George, and Saint Jacob, makes a large, fair and secure Ha∣ven for Ships of the greatest burthen, fit to receive and harbour all Vessels, that come and go, both to and from India to Christendom; and although this Island nor Kingdom are not ve∣ry great, yet they are very rich, and most abounding of all the Countreys of this Coast of Mosambique; the Island whereon the Town is situated, is inhabited now by two manner of People, Christians and Mahometans; the Christians account themselves Portugals, or of the Por∣tugal Race, who are the keepers of a strong Castle seated therein, from whence also all other their Castles and Forts seated in this Tract are supplied with their necessaries; especially Soffo∣la, where the richest Mine of Gold of all this Coast lieth, and there the Portugal Ships do use to harbour in Winter-time, when they are not able to sail either backward or forward otherwise to accomplish their desired Voyage; and there likewise the Indian Ships are accustomed to take in Victuals and fresh Water; and by the only discovery of this place, the Portugals first found out the way to India; for here they met with Pilots that were able to instruct them in the manner of the Navigation of these Seas, and were expert in the Maritime Coasts thereof; they have no sweet Water in the Town, nor in the Castle, though it be imagined to be the strongest in India, but have many Cisterns round about it, wherein a years Provision of Water is ever found, which they fetch from the Continent from a place called Cabasar. The Captain of this Castle is still sound to be the greatest merchant here, for he keeps a Factor in Soffola and another in Quilola, and yearly sendeth Barks for Trade alongst the Coast, who commonly for some good service performed hath this place and Command assign'd him for three years, which is concei∣ved to be worth 400 thousand Ducates, and afterwards he is to go into India, and upon his own charge to serve there at the Command of the Viceroy for the King of Portugal other three years, and then may depart for Spain if he please, besides whom none may hence trade for India, but the Inhabitants Portugals and who are also enjoined to be married men, for such as are unmar∣ried may not stay here by special priviledg from the King, granted to those that inhabit here, to the end, that the Island should be peopled, and thereby kept safeguarded and maintained, and for this immunity they are only bound in time of need to defend the Castle, and are accounted as the Garrison thereof, though it is found that the Governour and his family only lieth therein, and the Townsmen by turns, having the warding and watching thereof committed to their charge and trust.

Their Navigation is hence into India but once a year, which is in the month of April and continueth till the midst of September, because that throughout the whole Countrey of In∣dia, they must sail with Monsons, which are certain current constant winds, which have a setled course of blowing throughout the year, whereby they make their account to go and come from the one place to the other, and in thirty days they may sail from Mosambique to India, and they are then forced to stay in India till the month of August, when as then the wind or Monson cometh again, to serve them for Mosambique and this Coast, in every

which year the Captain abovesaid hath ever a Ship for his own account going and coming into India.

As for the Commodities which this Countrey and Coast are found principally to afford to the Merchant for Transportation, it is chiefly Gold, for near Soffalla is a very rich Mine, and within the Land, the samous Mine of Angela, the richest in the World, is said to be seated, be∣side; the rich Mines of Monomotapa, where in a River running thereby is found Sand of Gold in great plenty, which is accounted the finest and best, and called by the Portugals, Bolongorn Oro••mpo. The King of Portugal having ever a special Factor resident in Mosambique, trading for his account, keeping correspondence with other his Factors, and sending Merchandize from one place to another; for by this means the Kings of Portugal, the first Navigators into these parts, so far honoured Merchandizing, that they held it no disparagement to raise thus some estate, the better to perform and accomplish these long and chargeable Navigations, and hence it grew that they bringing these Indian Commodities into Europe, for their own account did by Commissioners contract with private Merchants for the same in Lisbon, and other places; which hence from this Authority were termed Regal Contracts. The other Commodities of this Coun∣trey, besides Gold in Sand, and Ingots, are, Ambergreese, Ebony-wood, Ivory, Elephants-teeth, and many slaves, both men and women, which hence are carried principally to India, as being reputed the strongest Moors in all the East Countreys, and are put throughout India to the hardest labour and loathsomest drudgery.

In order here, according to my intended method, for the Explanation of the Trade of this place and Countrey, I should lay down the Coins current here, and their valuation, their Measures of length, and their Weights used in Merchandizing; but because that by the Col∣lection I have made, and the Observation that I have noted, the Portugals at their first Con∣quest here, brought with them their own Species and Coins, as also their own Weights and Measures, as a testimony of their Regality and Sovereignty, and that the particulars thereof shall be more at large shewed in its due place, when I come to handle the Trade of Lisbon from whence the same had its original; I shall, to avoid needless repetition, desire the Reader to be reserred thereunto, and so leaving this large Coast with this slender Survey, I shall proceed to what doth rest behind of Africa, which is better known unto us, and wherewith our Nation is more familiarly acquainted.

CHAP. XXIX. Of AEGYPT, and the Provinces thereof.

AEGYPT on the East is bounded with the Red-Sea, on the West with Cyrene, on the North with the Mediterranean Sea, and on the South with Habasia: This Countrey is watered by the fruitful River Nilus, which for the more benefit of the spreading Plains di∣vides it self into seven Channels, and begins about the fifteenth of June to rise and swell above his banks, and for forty days doth so continue, and within forty days again collecteth it self into its own limits: all the Towns here are seated on the tops of Hills, which during this flood appear to strangers like Islands; Intercourse and Commerce being all this time preserved by Boats, Skiffs, and Lighters, instead of Camels and Horses; this River is in length 3000 miles, and when it is found not to swell, it portendeth some fatal accident either to Countrey or Srvereign.

In this Countrey are found these famous Towns for Traffick. Alexandria, built by Alex∣ander the Great, the most eminent Sea. Port of all Aegypt, and whither before the discovery of the Indies was the Scale of those Commodities which since we find to come thence, and then most frequented by the Venetians, who had almost the sole Trade of the Commodi∣ties of India and Aegypt in their own hands, and from them dispersed and transported through Europe, and who to this day yet keep a Consul there for the Protection of their Merchants,

The next is Damiata, seated at the entrance of one of the Channels of Nilus, the Com∣mand whereof cost much blood in the days of those Wars in the Holy-Land by the Western Christians.

The next is Sues, a Haven of consequence standing at the North end of the Red-Sea, where∣in the Great Turk keeps a Station for his Gallies, commonly built in Cairo, and afterward car∣ried thither by Camels to command his Dominions in those parts.

The next is Rosseta, seated on the principal Channel of Nilus, and in a triangle from the two above-named Cities of Alexandria and Cairo, serving for a Scale for both.

The last and most principal is Cairo, the chief of this Countrey containing 18000. Streets, and each Street being every night locked up and barred, which makes the City impregnable,

of which more hereafter. I find some Authors to have left for a remembrance behind them, a touch of the Trade of this Countrey in times past practised by the commodiousness of the Red-Seas, which entreth into the heart of this Countrey; and because that Galuano relateth the beginning, continuance, and period of this Trade, I will briefly follow his words. P••ol. Philadelphus then 277 years before the Incarnation, was the first that gave beginning, and set a∣foot this Navigation, bringing the Spices, Drugs, and Commodities of Arabia and India through the Red-Sea into Aegypt to the Port of Alexandria, where the Venetians as then the only fa∣mous Merchants of Christendom, brought up the same, and were the first that this way dis∣persed it through Europe, Africa and Asia. Casir being then the principal Haven Town in the Red-Sea, whence their Voyage to India was set forth and begun, and where the same af∣terward was ended, and from thence by Land these Commodities were conveyed to Coptus, a Town now altogether inhabited by Jacobite Christians, and so thence down the River Nile to Alexandria in the Mediterranean Sea, by which Traffick this City became so rich and emi∣nent, that the Custom-house there yielded to Ptol. Aalates 7½ millions of Gold: and afterward when the Romans came to be Lords of Aegypt, they found it to yield them fifteen millions. These last augmented this Trade, and sent into India every year by the testimony of Pliny an hundred and twenty Sail of Ships, whose Lading was outward bound worth 120000 Crowns, and it produced in profit at the return homeward, for every Crown, a hundred. But when the Vandals, Lombards, Goths and Moors had rent asunder the Roman Empire, all Commerce in these parts between these Nations began to cease; but when the inconvenience and discommo∣dity thereof was sensibly discerned and perceived, it was begun again and set afoot anew by other Princes that coveted this rich Trade, conveying the Indian Commodities afterward with great difficulty, partly by Land, and partly by Water to Capha in the Black-Sea, as then be∣longing to the Genoese; but this by reason of the long way and dangerous passage, being found too tedious and prejudicial, Trade (which is ever found to have a secret Genius and hidden course of it self) was removed for these and other causes to Trabesond, which was then con∣ceived the fittest Mart-Town, then Sarmachand in Zagethai had it, where the Indian, Persian and Turkish Merchants met to barter their Commodities; the Turks thence conveying the same to Damasco, Baruti and Aleppo, from which last place the Venetians again transported these Commodities to Venice, making that City thereby the common Emporium of Christendom; and lastly, in Anno 1300, the Soltans of Aegypt restored the passage by the Red-Sea, and the Ve∣netians resetled their Factors in Alexandria, which continued for two hundred years, until the Portugals. Spaniards, English, and lastly, the Dutch, found a new way by the back-side of Africa, to convey the same to their own homes, whereby the great Trade which the Aegyp∣tians, and principally the Venetians had to themselves for many years, came thus to nothing, and the Traffick of Alexandria and Red-Sea thereby is now decayed, and become altogether unfrequented, as at this day we find it, subsisting only by the native Commodities thereof; in which nature it is fittest I should now survey the same.

CHAP. XXX. Of ALEXANDRIA, and the Trade thereof.

ALEXANDRIA is said to be built by Alexander the Great, and was called by the Turks the Lords thereof Scanderia, and which in the Nicene Council was ordained to be one of the four Patriarchal Cities; it is yet the fairest and best Maritime Port of this whole Countrey, and hath yet some reliques of that Trade it earst enjoyed, as I have noted before; and because it is the principal of this Region for Merchandizing, I hold it proper to comprehend under this Chapter the greater part of the Trade universally of Aegypt and the neighbouring Cities.

The Commodities of Aegypt, besides what comes hither out of Arabia; Persia and India, is Rice, Corn, Flax, Hemp, Honey, Wax, Balsom, Dates, some Drugs, and some few Spices, and in especial it yieldeth abundance of Palm-Trees, which are of very strange properties, for they are found to grow in couples, male and female, both thrust forth cods full of seed, but the female is only fruitful, and that not except growing by the male, and having his seed mixed with hers; the pith of these Trees are excellent meat: of the branches they make necessary uses in their houses, of the leaves, baskets, mats and fans; of the outward husk of the cod, cordage; of the inward, brushes; the fruit is like a Fig, serving the Inhabitants, sometimes dried in the Sun as bread, and green as meat: and finally it is said to yield whatsoever is ne∣cessary to the life of Man.

The Weights in use in Cairo, Alexandria, and generally throughout all Aegypt for Trade, are found to be of four sorts, the first is the weight called the quintar of Zera, the second the quin∣tar

Forfor; the third the quintar Zaidin, and the fourth the quintar Mina; which because of their former great Trade with Venice, I will first compare with the weights of that City, and then apply the same to the weight of our own Countrey,

One quintar of Zera hath been found to make of Venetia gross 200 l. and suttle 312 l. and in London 212 l. Averdupois.

One quintar of Forfori hath been observed to make in Venice 140 l. suttle, and gross 87 l. and in London 93 l. Averdopois.

One quintar Zaidin, hath made by observation in Venetia 127 l. gross, and 200 l. suttle, and in London 134 l. Averdupois.

One quintar Mina, proper only to Alexandria, hath made in Venetia 250 l. suttle, 155 l. gross, and in London 167 l. Averdupois. Whereas note, that the first three quin∣tars are accounted by Rotolos, but the Quintar of Mina contains in Alexandria 20 ounces to the Mina, and in Cairo 16 ounces to the Mina: And also observe, that Amber, Musk, and some other fine Commodities are sold by a Metalico or Dram, and also by the Peso, whereof 1½ is a Metalico; 50 Metalicoes is here a Mark in Gold or Silver weight, and 42 Metalicoes our English Mark weight of 8 ounces Troy. Again, note, that

One Rotolo Zerai makes Venetia suttle 3 l. 1½ ounce.

One Rotolo Forfori makes Venetia 1 l. 5 ounces.

One Rotolo Zaidin makes Venetia suttle 2 l, gross 1 l. 3 ••/4 ounce.

One Mina makes in Venetia suttle 2 ••/4 l. and gross 1⅔ l.

Now let us observe how these weights are found to accord one with another, and so with Venetia.

One quintar Zerai, which is the general quintar of Aegypt, makes 2 quintars and 16 Rotolos of Forfori in Alexandria.

Again, one quintar Zerai makes one quintar and 56 Rotolos of Zaidin, and maketh 120 Mi∣nas of Alexandria.

One Rotolo Zera makes 2 Rotolo 1 ounce and 4••/5•• Forfori.

Again, one Rotolo Zeri makes one Rot. 6 9/25 ounces of Zaidin.

One quintar Forfori makes 46 Rot. 3½ ounces Zerai.

And one quintar Forfori makes 20 Rot. 11 23/27 ounces Zaidin.

One quintar Forfori makes 55½ Minas.

And one Rotolo Forfori makes 111 ounces Zerai, and 6½ ounces Zaidin.

One quintar Zaidin makes 64 Rot. 2 ounces of Zerai.

One quintar Zaidin makes one quintar 28 Rot. 5½ ounces Forfori.

One quintar Zaidin makes 76 Minas 11 ounces.

One Rotolo Zaidin makes 7 7/10 ounces Zera.

And again, one Rot. Zaidin makes one Rot. 4 ⅗ ounces Forfori.

And one Rotolo Zaidin makes one and 3 quarters ounces Minas.

One quintar Minas makes one quintar 2 Rotolos Forfori.

And one quintar Minas makes one quintar 30 Rotolos Zaidin.

And one Mina makes ten ounces Zera.

And again, one Mina makes one Rot. 9 ¼ ounces Forfori.

And lastly, one Mina makes one Rot. three ounces Zaidin.

The variety of these weights will excuse this tedious repetition, which I was enforced to per∣form for the better understanding of the same; and for the shortening of my present survey of the Trade of Aegypt, I will here reduce not only the weights above-named, but also the weights of some of the principal Cities of Traffick upon this Coast to the 100 l. suttle Averdupois of London, which hath been observed to make by:

Zera quintar	48	Rot. In Cairo and all Aegypt.
Forfoai quintar	108
Zaidin quintar	75
Minas quintar	54
Tripoli suria	25 ½	Rot. whereof 100 makes a quintar,
Achria	17	Rot. the 100 makes a quintar Tamperan.
Aleppo common	21 ¾	Rot. the 100 whereof is a quintar.
Tripoli Barbary	62	Rot. the 100 whereof is a quintar.
Oran common with	91	Rot. the quintar is 5 Roves of 20 Rot.
Oran for Spices	133	Rot. the quintar is 4. Roves.
Oran for Corn	48	Rot. each quintar 6 Rotolos.
Oran for Cotton	59	Rot. each quintar 15 Rot.
Una in Barbary	63	Rot. for Cotton Woolls.
Una	72	Rot. for Spices.

Una	90	Rot. for Corn.
Fras	153	Rot. the quintar is 100 ℞.
Baruti	20¾	Rot. the quintar is 100 Rot.
Argier
Thunes
Cathaia	84	Rot. the quintar is 100 Rot.
Cyprus	19½	Rot. Famagosto 4 per cent. more.
Suus in Barbary	90	Rot. 100 Rot. to a quintar.

When I come to handle those particular places, I shall do the same more exact, for the bet∣ter satisfaction of the Reader.

The Measures of length in Cairo, Alexandria, and in general through Aegypt, are found to be of two sorts, the one the Pico Barbaresco, or proper measure of the Countrey, serving for Cloth, Linnen and other Commodities, being 25⅞ inches English: The other the Pico Turchesco, serving for Silks, Cloth of Gold, and fine Stuffs, which is 22¼ inches English, and with Venetia they are found to render, viz.

100 braces of Silk in Venetia, make here Barbaresco Pico 116.

100 braces of Cloth in Venetia, make here Barbaresco 124½.

But I have found some observations that have noted, that the 100 Yards of London have made here and in these other Cities in Barbary thus, in

100 Yards in London have made in	Alexandria	165	pic.
Baruti	148	pic.
Tripoli Barbariae	165	pic.
Damasco	148	pic.
Bugia	210	pic.
Tripolia Suria	149	pic.
Rama	151	pic.
Tangier
Bursa in Natolia	150	pic.
Amano	133	pic.
Sidon	151	pic.
Gira	165	pic.
Salonica	145	pic.
Achria	151	pic.
Aleppo	133	pic.
Argier
Thunes
Oran
Bona
Morocco	181	cov.
Una

And forasmuch as Cairo is the Metropolis of Aegypt, it will be proper I should travel thither, and survey a little the present Trade and estate thereof, before I leave this COMMERCE.

CHAP. XXXI. Of CAIRO and the Trade thereof.

I Willingly omit the present Trade of Rosetto, Damietta, and some others of lesser note comprehended within the limits of Aegypt, and also (here pass over to a fitter place) the present Trade of Sues in the Red-Sea, till I come to survey that Gulf and the neighbouring Towns of Zebit, Mecca, Aden and others, and now content my self to consider the present state of the place and condition of Traffick of Cairo, as it is found at this day under the Scep∣ter of the Grand Seignior.

Cairo is then commonly reputed to be one of the greatest and most famous Cities of the World, called by the Arabians el Cahair, seated in a beautiful Plain near the Mountain Mu∣catun, and about two miles distant from the famous River of Nilus, invironed with stately Walls, and fortified with Iron Gates, having therein many fair, large and long Streets, where are seen placed by themselves each Trade and Occupation, and some Streets wholly beautified with Colledges for the studious, Palaces for the honourable, Temples for the religious, and Caens or Burses for the Merchants and Negotiators; the principal of which is called Caen Haleli, for∣merly the residence only of Persia Merchants, now admitting of other Nations, built in man∣ner of a King's Palace, having three stories one above another; the lower only containing Ware-houses for the keeping of heavy and bulky Commodities, the middlemost for Spices, Perfumes, and richer Merchandize, and the uppermost for Lodgings for those Merchants that have their Ware-houses therein; near which, and round about the same, the richest Shopkeepers are found to have their dwelling; and where in times past the principal Merchants of Christen∣dom had a place of residence appointed for their Factors and Agents.

This City is surrounded with sundry large and spacious Suburbs, which is peculiar to sundry Artizans and Artists, the principal Suburbs is called Bullach, distant two miles from the Walls of the City, and stretching it self along the Banks of the River of Nile, beau∣tisied with many fair buildings, and is now the common residence of the principal Merchants of this City: and here are all such Commodities landed, as either cometh out of the Mediter∣ranean Sea, by any the Channels of Nilus up this River, or out of Arabia, or other Countreys down this stream; here lies all the Vessels moored▪ either to lade or unlade; and here do the Officers reside, which receive the Customs of all Goods coming by Water from either Damietta, Rosetra, or Alexandria, which in it self is but small, the principal Custom and Duty being paid by these Merchants, and collected by the Agents of the Customers at these Maritime Ports above∣said: but those Commodities that come out of the firm Land do here pay the said entire Customs, as shall be mentioned hereafter.

This City is inhabited by six sorts of Merchants, each of them trading by so many distinct ways; [ 1] the native Aegyptian I reckon the first, ever accounted expert Merchants, but never ad∣venthring out of his own Country, who buy from other forein Nations their Commodities in gross, and supply the necessities of their own Country by retail.

[ 2] The Arabian or Moor is the next, here esteemed the greatest and most eminent Merchants; for these are they who are found to furnish all Aegypt with the Spices and Gems of India, and the Drugs of Arabia, Importing the same by Camels and Dromedaries from Goa, Ormus Aden, Zebit, Dangula, Mecca, and other places from and about the Red-Sea: and in return thereof Exporting hence the Drugs of Aegypt, and such other Commodities as are brought hi∣ther by those Nations neighbouring, principally upon and about the Mediterranean Sea. The principal Commodities accounted and fittest for them is the excellent Gold of this Countrey called the Soltanies and Sheraffie, which Aegypt in great plenty affordeth.

[ 3] The third sort of Merchants I account the Christians of Europe, as principally the French and Venetians, who have here their Consuls and Vice-Consuls for the Preservation of their Trade, and Protection of their Nation, by certain Capitulations agreed upon between their Sovereigns and the Grand Seignior in Constantinople, paying such Duties and Customs here as their said Capitulations do nominate; and these thus furnish Aegypt with Levantine Commodities, and generally with all the Fabricks and Wares of the growth of Europe; and these carry hence in returns these Commodities brought hither both out of Arabia and India, and the native Com∣modities of this Countrey.

[ 4] The Turks I account the next, whose Emperour swayeth the Scepter of this rich Countrey, and who in respect of their easie Customs reap a peculiar benefit by the Trade of this place; but the most eminent of them residing far hence and in Constantinople, and their ad∣venture proving dangerous and hazardable, by reason of the Incursions of the Malta and Flo∣rentine Gallies, joyning thereto the dull temper of that Nation generally in matter of Com∣merce, and the ill success their grand Gallions have of late years had, doth much divert their minds from any eager pursuit of that so rich a Traffick.

[ 5] The Jews here resident I account the fifth, who by reason of their general knowledge in Trade, and their general correspondence in all these Countreys before-mentioned, partake of all the Commerce and Traffick practised by these several persons; for from Venice, Constanti∣nople, Ormus, Goa, and other eminent places of Traffick, they are found to adventure and to have adventures; they travel and return with the Arabian into India and Arabia, they traffick here both in gross and retail; and besides their subtilty in driving of bargains and making of contracts between man and man as Brokers, they are here found to be of all Professions, and are the Professors of all Arts.

[ 6] The last which I reckon in this roll is the Armenian, Graecian and Coptie, all Christians, who in their way set the wheel of Trade on work, by being some Shop-keepers, some Arti∣ficers, and some Merchants, principally trading by Caravans to and from Aleppo, Damascus, Amman and Baruti, and in the Commodities of those Countreys of Armenia, Georgia and Per∣sia, they carry the principal swayand stroke; all which considered, what doth the place want to make it absolute, but only what it hath lost? which is the vast Trade of India, which of late years the Portugals, English and Flemming hath deprived them of; which I leave them to sorrow for, as for a thing past remedy.

The Commodities that this Countrey and place principally affordeth to these Merchants, where∣by their Commerce is now preserved to them, is Flax, and all sorts of Pulse, abounding in the Province of Sahid, where the Pharaohs resided; Fruits, Rice, Balsam, &c. abounding in Erif∣fic, where the Ptolemies resided; Cottons, Sugars, and some Drugs, &c. abounding in Marre∣ma, where the Romans and Graecians resided; and all these annually foretold by the Inundati∣on of the Rivor Nilus, discerned by a Pillar seated in the Island Michias opposite to the City of Cairo, beginning ever to increase about the 15 of June, so continuing 40 days increasing, and 40 days decreasing, as I said before; the height of the increase giving assured testimony of that

years abundance and plenty, at the end whereof a solemn days feast is kept to Nilus, in which it is oftentimes seen the Aegyptian to spend as much in jollity, as with great pain and industry he hath gathered the whole year before with penury, out of this plenty and abundance is yearly drawn for Revenue of this Kingdom three millions of Sheraffies, in value 8 shillings Ster∣ling apiece, the one whereof is now adays sent to the Grand Seignior (by Land and Caravan, for fear of surprizal at Sea by the Florentine or Malta Gallies;) the second Million is spent in the pay of the Militia and Souldiery of this Countrey; and the third rebounds to the benefit of the Bassa, here resident for the Grand Seignior, for the maintenance of his own Court and Dependents.

Their principal parts for Traffick in the Mediterranean Sea is Alexandria, as before I noted, accounted a free Port for Friend or Enemy; the Harbour cammanded by a Castle, and the entrance guided by an eminent Watch Tower to give light to Sailers: the Customs of which place is farmed by Jews at 20 thousand Medins per diem, 30 Medins accounted for a Ryal of eight Spanish, which here may be valued 5 shillings Sterling, the which by the year may amount to 55 thousand pound Sterling. All Goods entring here pay the Custom in species, or com∣pounded for at 10 in the hundred, only Moneys entring pay but one and half per cent. but out∣ward all Commodities pay 11 per cent. but this is to be accounted the Soldans Custom, and called the great Custom: the other Customs raised here is as much, or very near as much more, as he shall find to his cost that tradeth into these parts, whereto for better tryal I will refer him.

Now for the Trade in general of Cairo, the Merchants thereof are found at this day in some sort to have the reliques of that former great Trade which they lost out of the Red-Sea; for hence they send by Caravans sundry European Commodities thither, especially at the time when the yearly Caravan departeth hence for Mecca, and Medina Talnabi, the Sepulchre of their false Prophet Mahomet, which arriving at Sues in the Red-Sea, is there found to have a gene∣ral dispersion, some going for the City of Assuan, which is commodiously seated upon their River. Nile, and upon the borders of the Kingdom of Nubia, which hence sits it self with the Commodities both of Asia and Europe, and is equally distant between Cairo and the City of Suachen or Suasuem, once the principal Port of this Kingdom, situated on the Red-Sea, but now in the subjection of the great Emperour of the Abassins: from which is commodious Na∣vigation to Brava, Melinda, Quiloa. and other places along the Coast of Abex and Mosam∣bique, as I have mentioned before. And because it is the principal Town of trading on Africa side in the Rea-Sea, I hold it here worthy a better and more serious survey.

CHAP. XXXII. SUACHEN on the Red-Sea, and the Trade thereof.

SUACHEN is one of the richest Cities of the Orient, situated within the Arabique Gulf in the Coast of Aethiopia sub Aegypto, and amongst all the famous Cities of Trade in the Orient this is accounted equal, if not superiour to them in four things; the first in the goodness and security of the Haven; the second in the facility and good service for lading and unlading of Ships; the third in the Traffick with very strange and remote People and Coun∣treys, and of divers behaviours; the fourth in the strength and situation of the City: As for the goodness and security of the Port, Nature hath so made it, that it is defended from all storms whatsoever; the Haven is capacious and large, of smooth Tides, the ground good, and able in circuit to hold 300 great Sail of burthen, with water at all times, from six to twelve fa∣thom; the Ships are laden round about the whole circumference of the City, casting only a plank into the Merchants Ware-houses where their Wares are kept; and the Gallies fastning themselves to the stones and doors of their houses, set their Prows over the Streets, and by them as by Bridges they are commodiously laden or unladen; and secondly, as touching the Traffick and Navigation thereof, few Cities can in these parts be compared with it; for this City is found to have Traffick with all India intra and extra Gangem, that is, Cambaia, Tanacerim, Pegu, Mallacca, and with the Arabick, with Judea, Cairo and Alexandria, as I said above, and with all Aethiopia and the Land of Abexi; from whence it gathereth great abundance of Gold and Ivory: Thirdly, For the situation of it; for it is such as if Nature had framed it purposely for a Royal Mart; for it is an Island round in form, incompassed with many sholds and flats, for defence of the Port and City, occupying and taking up the whole bo∣dy of the Island, so that it may as properly be termed an Island of a City, as a City in an Island; for there is no one foot of waste ground upon the whole Island, but is imployed in Housing and Magazines: the manner of Trade here, as far as I have gathered is thus:

It is now the principal Port-Town in these Seas belonging to Prester Jean, from whose Court called Dombia, it is twenty five days journy by Caravan; and the concourse of Mer∣chants is here so great, that twenty Caravans are yearly found to set out hence towards several parts of the neighbouring Regions.

The Commodities they carry, are all kind of Indian Clothing, and also of our English Commo∣dities, as Broad Cloths, Kersies, Lead, and Tin; likewise Velvets, Damasks, Sattins, Taffetteas, and all other sorts of Silk Stuffs; their colours more desired are reds, greens, viol••ts, murries, and other light colours.

Their Measure is called a (—) about half a Yard, and Cloth that is worth in Suachen 4 Ryals of 1/•• is there worth 8 Ryals, and the price of Kersies is half the price of Broad-cloth; Vel∣vets of China are here worth 10 ℞ 8/•• the said measure, and Italian Velvets are mach more worth, but not so profitable to the Merchants, as being much dea••er; Sattins of Florence are worth 10 8/••, Damasks of the best fort worth from 8 to 10 ℞ 8/•• Taffetta's 3 ℞ 8/••, and all colours well sold, excepting yellow and black, which are out of use in these Countreys.

Their Weight is the Rotolo, which is about 16½ ounces Averdupois, the Rotolo is four Wakies, and 360 Rotolos make here a weight called a Bahar.

The Commodities here abounding are these, Civet in great quantity, and worth a ℞ 8/•• a Wai••a, Elephants Teeth also plenty, worth thirty ℞ •• the Bahar, Wax worth 1 ℞ •• the 100 Rotolo's; Gold worth 60 ℞ 8/•• the Rotolo, Tin worth 1 ℞ •• the Rotolo, and Lead much more; but the Turk will not suffer any to be brought hither through his Dominions, for they hold it a contrabanda Commodity: from Grand Caire there goeth always in August a great Caravan for these parts, and likewise another in November, and the Commodities they earry thence is Broad Cloths, Kersies, Velvets, Satins, Damasks and Silks of all sorts, and from Cairo to Dombia this way is fifty days travel by Caravan, and no more, which hence is easily performed.

Now forasmuch as I find not on the Arabian side of the Red-Sea any other Town of eminence in Trade besides this, and that from Cape guarda fue along the Coast, I find none other worthy my detention, I will hence sail down to the bottom of this Gulf, and willingly pass by in silence the famous Port Town of (…) the place conceived where the Israelites passed on dry foot over, or rather throw this Sea, when they were pursued by their envious Enemies the Aegyptians, who therein found their death the reward of their hatred; and perusing the same, survey the now famous Port of Sues, the present station of the Grand Signior's Fleet, that aweth this Sea, and the neighbouring Regions thereof.

CHAP. XXXIII. Of SUES, and the Trade thereof.

SUES is now the reliques of that ancient Heros, to which place Cleopatra carried her Gallies by Land after the defeat of Mark Anthony her beloved, accounted fifteen leagues from the nearest branch of Nilus running to Cairo; it is strengthened by a strong late Fortifi∣cation raised by the Turks, not only for defence of the Town, but in defence of those his Gallies here kept to command these Seas, and his Maritime Coasts on both sides the Gulf; and here it was that several Aegyptian Soltans intended to dig a Channel, and thereby joyn the commodity of this Sea to the Mediterranean, but all of them desisting ere the work was brought to perfection, the reliques whereof in many places remain yet to be seen, the Divine Pro ••idence having given bounds to Seas, which the wit and power of man, though Princes, can∣not transpose or alter. This place would long since have given way to the envy of time by decay and ruine, had it not been for that relique of Trade which is here preserved by a few in∣habiting Merchants, and the station for the great Turks Gallies, which he is inforced to build on the Mediterranean Sea, for want here of wood and fit materials, and thence convey the same hither by Camels and Dromedaries in several pieces, where afterward they are set up and accordingly imployed, sometimes mastering the Portugals and other Kings his neighbours, and sometimes again being by them mastered, according to the fortune of War; other Subject of Trade I find not here material, therefore in silence pass it over. And having thus then briefly run through the principal places of Trade, comprised within the Limits of Aegypt, and noted the concordancy of the weights and measures used commonly throughout this whole Countrey, both with Venice the former greater Traders hither, and with ours in England; before I come to the Coins current of this Countrey, it will not be improper I should infert a Concordancy of the weights of this place with some other neighbouring Countreys, according as I have gathe∣red them out of the works of Alexander de Pasi, a Venetian Merchant, which here for many years resided.

CHAP. XXXIV. Aegypt Weight compared with the Weights of sundry other Countreys.

I Have noted before, how that in Aegypt are used four several Weights proper to several sorts of Commodities; the Cantar Forfori is used in several sorts of Spices coming from Cairo; the Cantar Zero is the greatest and most common in use for all such Commodities as are sold here by Christian Merchants; the Cantar Laidin is only used in Flax, Hemp, &c. and the last in the Can∣tar Mina, most used in Damietta, for Cloves, Maces, Cinnamon, Musk, and some sorts of Spices; the Observations made thereon, with some other eminent Cities, are these:

A Cantar of Tripoli in Suria is thus found to accord with Aegypt.

• A Cantar Forfori is in Tripoli 1 Cantar 24 Rotolos.
• A Cantar Laidin is in Tripoli — 33⅔ Rotolos.
• A Cantar Zeroi is in Tripoli — 52½ Rotolos.
• A Cantar Mena is in Tripoli — 42 Rotolos.

And note, that from Aegypt is sent to Tripoli in Suria, some Spices, Sugars, Rice, Cassia, Salt, &c. and from Tripoli is sent to Aegypt, white Soap, Dates, and some other Commodities.

The Weight of Cyprus is thus observed with Aegypt.

• The Cantar of Cyprus makes in Aegypt
  • 5 Cantar: 20 Rotol. Forfor.
  • 2 Cantar: 30 Rotol. Zoroi.
• And the Cantar Forfori is in Cyprus 19 Rotolo 2/4
• A Cantar Laidin is in Cyprus 26 ½ Rotolos.
• A Cantar Zeroi is in Cyprus 42 ½ Rotolos.
• A hundred Mino is in Cyprus 33 ⅓ Rotolos.

And note that from Aegypt is brought to Cyprus, some Spices, Cassia, Rice, Flax, Salt, Fish, and some other Goods and from Cyprus is brought to Aegypt, Honey, Melasso, Sugars, Cottons, Chamblets, Grograms, and some other Commodities.

Rhodes is thus found to accord with Aegypt.

• The Cantar Forfori is in Rhodes 18 Rotolos.
• The Cantar Laidin is in Rhodes 25 Rotolos.
• The hundred Mino is in Rhodes 32⅔ Rotolos.
• The Cantar of Rhodes is in Aegypt 2 Cantar 56 Rot. Zeroi.

And note, that Rhodes sends to Aegypt, Honey, Wax, Oyls, Raisins, and some Fruits, and from Aegypt is sent to Rhodes some Spices, Cassia, Sugars, Rice, Cow-hides, Flax and salted Fish.

Aegypt is thus found to agree in Weight with Scio and Smyrna.

• The Cantar of Scio is in Aegypt 1 Cantar 11 Rotolos Forfori.
• The Cantar Zeroi is in Scio 1 Cantar 95 Rotolos.
• The Cantar Forfori is in Scio 89½ Rotolos.
• The Cantar Laidin is in Scio 1 Cantar 24 Rotolos.

And note, that from Scio is sent for Aegypt, Wax, Honey, Mastick, white Soap, Cottons; and from Aegypt to Scio and Smyrna is sent Cassia, Rice, Flax, Sugar and Sugar Candid, Oxe and Buffolo-hides, salted Fish, &c.

Aegypt with Candy is thus found to accord in Weight.

• The 1000 l. gross of Candia makes 3 Cantar 63 Rotol. Zero.
• The 1000 l. sotile of Candia makes 3 Cant. 57 Rot. Zero.
• The Cantar Zeroi makes Candia sotile 274 l.
• The Cantar Forfori makes in Candia sotile 125 l.
• The Cantar Laidin makes in Candia gross 115 l.
• The hundred of Meno makes in Candia sotile 220 l.

And note, that from Candia is sent to Aegypt, Honey, Wax, Cheese, Candia Wines, and some other Commodities: And from Aegypt is sent to Candia, some Spices, Rice, Cassia, Sugar •…•…∣did, Flax, and some other Commodities.

Aegypt is thus found to accord with Cania.

• The 1000 l gross of Cania is in Aegypt 6 Cantar 33 in 35 ℞ Zero.
• The Cantar Zero is in Cania sotile 278 l.
• The Cantar Forfori is in Cania sotile 127 in 128 l.
• The Cantar Laidin is in Cania gross 100 l.
• The hundred Mina is in Cania sotile 221 l. in 223 l.

And note, that the Commodities transported for Merchandize are the same as is above re¦hearsed in Candia.

Aegypt is thus found to accord in weights with Brussia in Natolia.

• The Cantar Zera is in Brussio 1 Cantar 77 Rotolos.
• The Cantar Forfori is in Brussia 82 Rot.
• The Cantar Laidin is in Brussia 1 Cantar 14 Rot.
• The hundred Meno is in Brussia 1 Cantar 42 Rotolos.

And note, That from Brussia is sent to Aegypt, Wax, Honey, Carpet, Silk, Civet, and other Com••odities, and from Aegypt those Commodities mentioned heretofore.

Aegypt is thus found to accord with Constantinople in Weights.

• The Cantar Zero is in Constantinople 1 Cantar 77 Rotolos.
• The Cantar Forfori is in Constantinople 82 Rot.
• The Cantar Laidin is in Constantinople 1 Cantar 14 Rot.
• The hundred of Meno is in Constantinople 1 Cantar 42 Rotolos.

And note, That the Commodities accord with the precedent of Brussia.

Aegypt is thus found to accord with the Island of Corfu.

• The 1000 l. sotile Corfu is in Aegypt 4 Cant. 27 Rot. Zero.
• The Cantar Forfori is in Corfu sotile 108 l.
• The Cantar Laidin is in Corfu sotile 150 l. gross 126 l.
• The hundred Meno is in Corfu sotile 187 l.
• The Cantar Zero is in Corfu sotile 234 l.

And note, that from Aegypt to Corfu, and the parts adjoyning, is sent Cassia, Pepper, Cloves, Cinnamon, and some other Spices, Sugars, Rice, Flax, Oxe and Buffello-hides, and other Com∣modities of Aegypt; and from Corfu is sent to Aegypt, Wax, Honey, &c.

Aegypt is thus found to accord with Rhagusa in Slavonia.

• The Cantar Forfori is in Rhagusa 120 l.
• The Cantar Laidin is in Rhagusa 166½ l.
• The Cantar Zero is in Rhagusa 163 l.
• The hundred of Meno is in Rhagusa 208⅓ l.

The Commodities are the same as above mentioned in Corfu.

Aegypt is sound in weight to agree thus with Catarro.

• The Cantar Forfori is in Catarro 108 l.
• The Cantar Zero is in Catarro 234⅓ l.
• The Cantar Laidin is in Catarro 150 l. gross 126 l.
• The Cantar Meno is in Catarro 187 l.

And note, that the Commodities are the same as is mentioned in Corfu.

Aegypt is found to agree with Spollato thus in weight.

• The Cantar Forfori is in Spollato 144 l. sotile.
• The Cantar Laidin is in Spollato sotile 200 l. gross 126 l.
• The Cantar Zero is in Spollato sotile 312 l. in 316 l.
• The hundred Meno is sotile Spollato 250 l.

Note, the Commodities are the same mentioned in Corfu and Gulf of Venetia.

Aegypt is found in weight thus to agree with Ancona.

• The Cantar Zero is in Ancona 268 l.
• The Cantar Fofori is in Ancona 124 l.
• The Cantar Laidin is in Ancona 172 l.
• The hundred Meno is in Ancona 215 l.

And note, That the Commodities of Aegypt are nominated before, and from Ancona is sent to Aegypt, white Soap, Oyls, Nuts, and the common Commodities of the Kingdom of Naples.

Aegypt is found in weight to agree with Apulia thus.

• The Cantar Zero is in Apulia 1 Cant. 7 Rot.
• The Cantar Forfori is in Apulia 48 Rot. or 155 l.
• The Cantar Laidin is in Apulia 68 Rot. or 188 l.
• The hundred Meno is in Apulia 85 Rot. or 235 l.

These weights are found in this manner also to agree with Naples, and hath the Commodities transportable for Merchandize, as is mentioned before in Ancona.

Aegypt is found in weight thus to agree with Sicilia.

• The Cantar Forfori is in Sicilia 55 Rotolos or 138 l.
• The Cantar Forfori is in Sicilia 1 Cantar 29 Rot. or 300 l.
• The Cantar Laidin is in Sicilia 77 Rot. or 192 l.
• The hundred Meno is in Sicilia 96 Rot. or 240 l.

And note, That from Sicilia is sent to Aegypt, Melassus of Sugars, Nuts, Cheese, and Brim∣stone, Pumice-stones, and from Aegypt is sent to Sicilia the Commodities above-named of Aegypt.

Aegypt is found to agree with Tunis and Tripoli in Barbary thus.

• The Cantar of Tunis is 1 Cantar 17 Rotolos Forfori.

• The Cantar Forfori in Tunis and Tripoli 85 Rotolos
• The Cantar Laidin is in Tunis and Tripoli 1 Cantar 19 Rot.
• The Cantar Zero is in Tunis and Tripoli 1 Cantar 84 Rot.
• The hundred Meno is in Tunis and Tripoli 1 Cantar 47 Rot.

And from Aegypt is sent to Tunis and Tripoli some sorts of Spices, as Pepper, Cloves, Cin∣namon, Cassia, Benjamin, Musk, Ambergreece, Civer, Storax, Camphora, Flax, and such like. It resteth yet to make the knowledge of these several weights in themselves perfect, that I should shew what Commodities are weighed by each of them, and afterward shew in brief how they are found to accord with other principal places of Traffick not here above-menti∣oned.

The Cantar Forfori is the weight wherewith in Aegypt Merchants do buy and sell Pepper, Ginger and Green Ginger, Lache, red and white Sandal, Incense, Myrrhe, Zedoaria, Gum Ara∣bick, Semensine, Assa faetida, Mirabolans, Indico, Sugars of all sorts, Sal Armoniack, Elephants Teeth, and the like; agreeing thus with other Countreys of Trade.

Cantar For∣fori, that is, 100 Rotolos is in	Rhodes	17½	Rotolos.
Cyprus	18⅔	Rotolos.
Petras	108	l.
Salonica	109	l.
Zara	116	l.
Fiume	140	l.
Ancona	120	l.
Riconati	223	l.
Pesaro	124	l.
Arminio	116	l.
Lansano	123	l.
Apulia	132	l.
Acquila	124	l.
The Cantar Forfori of Aegypt, is in	Sicilia	134	l.	which are 54 Rotolos.
Calabria	131	l.	which are 47 Rot.
Naples	121	l.	which are 47½ Rot.
Rome	117½	l.
Florence	112½	l.	now all one
Pisa	124	l.
Genoa sotile	133	l.
Lucca	123	l.
Bolonia	116½	l.
Millan	129	l.
Cremona	132	l.
Piedmont	129	l.
Geneva	88	l.
Lions	98	l.
Avignon	102	l.
Barcelona	98	l.
Majorca	100	l.
Marselia	105	l.
Valencia	120	l.
Sevil	90	l.
Lisbon	79⅓	l.
Bona and Bugia	83⅓	Rot.
London	81	l.
Bruges	92	l.

The weight called Meno is accounted by Hundred, and not by the Cantar, which is also pe∣culiar to some Commodities only, and thereby is weighed Cloves, Maces and Fust of Clove••, Nutmegs, Cinnamon, Cubebs, Long Pepper, Aloes, Epatica, Boras, in past and in gain, Cardamon, Spikenard, Costus, sweet and bitter, Sarcacole, Armoniac, Opponax, Storax, Calamint, Turbit, Spodium, Ermodatili, Mumia, Benjoin, Laccia, Euphorbio, Lignum Aloes, Rhubarb, Manna, and other such like are sold by this weight, the hundred whereof make of the Cantar Forfori 180 Rotolos, and makes in

The 100 Rot. Meno doth make in	Venetia soteli	250	l.
Petrasse	184	l.
Corfu	187	l.
Rome	211	l.
Ricanti	220	l.
Lanfano	215	l.
Acquila	223	l.
Fermo	223	l.
Rhagusa	208	l.
Piedmont	229	l.
Savoy	157	l.
Avignon	181	l.
Marselia	187	l.
Majorca	179	℞
Granado	148	l.
Sevil	158	l.
Lisbon	142	l.
Tunis	148	l.
Salerno	135	l.
Ancona	215	l.
Pesari	220	l.
Bolonia	208	l.
Florence	219	l.
Milan	229	l.
Cremona	232	l.
Genoa	238	l.
Verona	225	l.
Geneva	157	l.
Lions	175	l.
Paris	169	l.
Barcelona	178	l.
Valencia	208	l.
Cades	164	l.
Tripol. Barb.	148	l.
London	166½	l.
In Flanders	173	l.

The next is the Cantar Zero, by which is sold Cassia and not any other Spice, also Tin, Lead, Brass, and some other Commodities, the which is found to make in

The Can∣tar Zero doth make in	Venetia gr.	200	l.
Venetia soteli	316	l.
Salonica	177	Rot.
Petrasse	140	l.
Fiume	312	l.
Pulia	108	l.
Lansano	268	l.
Ricante	275	l.
Pesaro	275	l.
Barcelona	219	l.
Majorca	223	℞
Valencia	227	l.
Sevil	198	l.
Lisbon	250	l.
Tunis	186	℞
Rome	266	l.
Ancona	268	l.
Florence	273	l.
Genoa	297	l.
Lucca	276	l.
Millan	287	l.
Sicilia	120	l.
Piedmont	287	l.
Marselia	231	l.
Cades	200	l.
London	223	l.
Flanders	215	l.
Tripol. Barb.	116	℞
Granado	178	℞

And this is as much as I have collected concerning the several Weights of Aegypt used con∣stantly in Cairo, Alexandria, Damietta, and other principal places of that Countrey, which by reason of the diversity, as being fourfold, have proved the more tedious and intricate; wherein if Error be found by the trial of him that shall have cause to make an Experiment, I shall (I hope) find the more favorable construction of this my pains taken, wishing that I could have thus enlarged my self in the Measures of these Countries, and the agreement thereof with the other places before-named, wherein (being defective) I must crave to refer the Reader to him that is herein better acquainted, and therefore next to the Coins current.

The Coins current of this Country are in Traffick of Merchandize, partly foreign, and partly domestick; the foreign is the Spanish Ryal of Eight, which they call here the Piastre and Dollar, and worth in common 80 and sometimes 90 Aspers, which is the domestick Coin of this Coun∣trey, and the Maidin which is the common Silver Coin of all the Grand Signiors Dominions. Three A or Aspers make a Maidin, and 30 Maidins make a Dollar; the Gold Coin, here is the Soltane, Xeriffe and Chequeen, all of one value, little differing, accounted 8 shillings Sterling; but rising and falling in Aspers according to the plenty of Gold.

Their Accompts are here diversly kept, the Inhabitants for the most part accounting by Aspers 80 Aspers to a Dollar; and some by Ducates of Pargo, accounting that three Ducates of Venice make one Ducate of Pargo; besides which, there is also in use an Italian Ducate 10 per cent. less.

The Customs of Alexandria, Damietta and Rosetta is 10 per cent. as I noted before, upon all Commodities inward and outward, and paid in kind or Species, but upon Moneys brought in it is only ½ per cent. and very strictly lookt into and exacted, but the Bashaw govern∣ing here for the Grand Seignor, being ever a principal man, and far remote from the Im∣perial

Port of Constantinople, lays in many Towns of this Kingdom what custom he pleases; and though it be held now to be but 10 per cent. which is the old and ancient Custom of Aegypt, yet the Merchant that tradeth here, shall find ere his Goods be sold, and the Moneys in his Purse, accounting the Consoledge and other Duties, to be adove 22 or 23 per cent. the place be∣ing much subject to Anuenus and Mangaries, and the Custom-house being farmed to Jews, add thereto the greatest deceit they can possible to raise the daily Customs of the place, Alexandria it self paying in this manner 20 thousand Medins a day by Farm, which at the rate of 30 Me∣dins to a Ryal of ••/•• Spanish, and the Ryal of ••/•• accounted at 5 shillings Sterling, amounteth to 54750 l. per annum.

I should in the next place Survey the general Trade of Aegypt, as it is observed and found to be at this day, but by reason I have in many places of the before-mentioned Chapters particu∣larly handled the principal parts thereof, and noted the most eminent Nations that at this pre∣sent do hither Traffick, I shall the more willingly pass over the same in silence, and only now observe, that besides the French and Venetians, not any other European Christians are found here to traffick, and the English have given over all Trade into this Countrey, by reason they are furnished with all the Commodities that this place did formerly yield, at the first hand from India, and what else they want, being Commodities either of Arabia or Aegypt, they furnish themselves from Aleppo, where many English are resident: But here are found Consuls for both the Venetion and French Nations, which continue still some Trade hither, as indeed more proper for them, wanting the Trade of India which the English enjoy, of which I have made mention before, and therefore leaving Aegypt, and with it the firm land, I shall take leave now to view the Islands that belong to Africa by modern Cosmographers.

CHAP. XXXV. Of the Island of Madagascar.

I Find belonging to Africa many Islands, which are found to afford many notable Commodities for Merchandize, which for brevities sake I will only touch, that the Factor may know whence those Commodities do come which are found amongst us. Madagascar, otherwise called the Island St. Lawrence, giving name to a Town, the principal of that Island, was discovered by the Portugals Anno 1506: The Inhabitants willingly permit no man to land upon their Countrey for traffick sake; it yieldeth Cloves, Ginger, and some Silver, to the Inhabitants own use, but not for Exportation, and their Moneys in use are the Gloss-Beads of Cambaia, which in Merchan∣dize and Barter currently pass amongst them.

CHAP. XXXVI. Of the Island of Zocotara.

THE Island of Zocotara lieth in the mouth of the Red-Sea, 10 degrees North from the Equator, wherein the Portugals have fortified two Towns for Traffick; it is replenished with Drugs for Physick, and especially, with that so excellent and well known in Christendom, by the name of Aloes Zocatrina, which is sold there by a Quintal, which (by observation) makes in England 93 l.

CHAP. XXXVII. Of the Island of Saint Thomas.

SAint Thomas Island lieth just under the Equinoctial Line; the prime City is Povoasan, Inha∣bited principally by Portugals and Negro's, abounding only in Sugar, which here groweth in Canes, and are made so that yearly 50 great Ships are here laden with that Commodity for Spain and Portugal, whereto I am not able to add any other material point of Trade, because of my ignorance therein.

CHAP. XXXVIII. Of the Islands of the Canaries, and the Trade thereof.

THese Islands are seven in number, and under the command of the Spaniard, formerly cal∣led The Fortunate Islands. They abound in Sugars, whereof great quantity of Marma∣lade, and other Conserves are made; in Birds, which hereof take their names, excellent in Singing; in Wines, which hence are known by these Islands names, excellent in taste; and in Woad, found excellent for dying.

To these Islands is now found and practised some small Trade by the English; to which place they import some Seys, Serges, Bays, Linnens, and such like, and export thence Woad, and Sugars and Wines of the growth of these Islands; which last is vended thence into England and Hol∣land above two thousand Tuns yearly, to the great inriching of the Inhabitants.

Their Weights, Measures, and Coins, are altogether concurrent with the Weights, Measures, and Coins current in Sevil, to which place it was annexed by the Spaniards the first disco∣verers, therefore I shall not need to say ought here further thereof.

CHAP. XXXIX. Of the Assores, commonly Tercera Islands.

THE Tercera Islands were first discovered by the Flemmings, and a while bare their names; upon which is placed the Meridian Line, dividing the East from the West part of the World; it only aboundeth in Oad or Woad used by Dyers, and is now in the hands of the Spaniards, and in special use to them in their Voyage to the East or West-Indies, and afford∣ing them for refreshment good Water, and store of Goats flesh. Other matter of Trade it af∣fordeth not; therefore this shall serve to have said of the Islands, willingly omitting the Hespe∣rides, the Gorgades, the Princes Islands, and others of lesser moment, and proceed in my MAP to view the Trade of ASIA, somewhat better known to us than AFRICA.

Notes

• Africa, and the Provin∣ces thereof.
• Divided in∣to eight parts.
• Barbary 1.
• Description of Tunis.
• Govern∣ment.
• Buildings.
• Port.
• Coins.
• Accounts.
• Exportation of Money.
• Weights.
• Measures of length.
• Dry Mea∣ures.
• Liquid Mea∣sures.
• Commodi∣ties.
• Customs.
• Contra-ban∣da Commo∣dities.
• Argier and the Trade thereof. Tremesin.
• Commodi∣ties of A••gier
• Coins of Ar∣gier.
• Weights of Argier.
• Measures of length.
• Dry Mea∣sures.
• Accounts in Argier.
• Customs of Argier.
• Clearing of a Ship in Argier.
• Oran and the Trade there∣of.
• Coins of Oran.
• The Weights in use in Oran.
• Measures of Oran.
• Una and the Trade there∣of.
• Coins of Una.
• Weights of Una.
• Measures of Una.
• The gene∣ral Trade of Argier and Tunis.
• The Pirati∣cal Trade of Tunis and Argier.
• Of Sally and the Trade thereof.
• Their Coin.
• Weight.
• Measures.
• Fesse, and the Provin∣ces thereof.
• City of Fesse, and the Trade there∣of.
• Commodi∣ties in the Kingdom of Fesse.
• Moneys of Fesse and Morocco.
• Accounts in Fesse and Mo∣rocco.
• Weights in Fesse.
• Measures in Fesse.
• Customs of Fesse and Mo∣rocco.
• Morocco and the Provin∣ces thereof.
• City of Mo∣rocco and the Trade there∣of.
• Commodi∣ties of Mo∣rocco.
• Coins of Mo∣rocco.
• Weights of Morocco.
• Measure of Morocco.
• Customs of Morocco.
• Barbary Merchants.
• The Origi∣nal of the Turkey and East-India Company.
• The Trade general of Barbary.
• Taradant.
• Of Numidia and Lybia.
• Lybia.
• Negrita and the Trade thereof.
• Tombutu.
• Goago.
• Borneo.
• Commodi∣ties thereof.
• The Trade of Guiney and Benin, and the Gol∣den Coast.
• The Portu∣gals the first Traders in∣to Guiney and Benin.
• Who shew∣ed the way to English and others.
• The man∣ner of the u∣sual Trade of Guiney and Benin.
• The under∣mining tricks of Guiney and Benin.
• Customs of the Golden Coast of Gui∣ney and B•…•…in
• The Coins current in Guiney and B••nin.
• Kacorawns.
• The weights of Guiney and Benin.
• Coins of ma∣ny parts of this Coast.
• Measures of Guiney and Benin
• The manner of account∣ing.
• Sugar Trade.
• Aethiopia su∣periour.
• Commodi∣ties of Aethi∣opia superi∣our.
• Aethiopia in∣feriour.
• Aian.
• Commodi∣ties of Aian.
• Zanibar.
• Quiloa.
• Mosambique.
• Soffola.
• Monomotapa.
• Manica. Boro. Quitiana.
• Elephants Teeth.
• Caffaria.
• Cape Bona Spei.
• Manicongo.
• Mosambique, and the Trade there∣of.
• Soffola.
• The Captain of Mosam∣bique the greatest Merchant.
• Navigation of India.
• Commodi∣ties of the Coast of Mo∣sambique.
• The Kings of Portugal great Mer∣chants.
• Regal Con∣tracts.
• Coins, Mea∣sures, and Weights in Mosambique and the Coast.
• Aegypt and the Trade thereof.
• Nilus.
• Alexandria.
• Damiata.
• Suesa.
• Rossetta.
• Cairo.
• The Trade of Aegypt in times past setled in A∣lexandria.
• Casir in the Red-Sea.
• Coptus.
• And remo∣ved to Caffa in the Euxine Sea.
• Then to Tra∣besond, Sar∣machand, &c.
• Alexandria and the Trade there∣of.
• Commodi∣ties of. Aegypt.
• The excel∣lency of the Palm-tree.
• Wrights of Alexandria.
• 1 Zera.
• 2 Forfori.
• 3 Zaidin.
• 4 Mina.
• Weights of Aegypt and sundry Cities in Barbary, to the 100 l. Averdupois.
• Measures in Aegypt.
• Cairo and the Trade there∣of.
• Misraim.
• Merchants of six sorts in Cairo.
• Commodi∣ties of Grand Cairo and Aegypt.
• Revenues of Aegypt.
• Customs of Alexandria.
• Merchants of Cairo.
• Suachen on the Red-Sea, and the Trade thereof. Suachen fa∣mous for four excel∣lencies needful in Trade.
• Commodi∣ties of Sua∣chen.
• Measures of Suachen.
• Weights of Suachen.
• Sues in the Red-Sea.
• Aegypt Weight, compared with the Weights of sundry other Countreys. The several Commodi∣ties weighed by the seve∣ral weights in Aegypt.
• Aegypt weights compared with Tripoli in Suria.
• Aegypt weights compared with Cyprus.
• Aegypt weights compared with Rhodes.
• Aegypt weights compared with Scio and Smyrna.
• Aegypt weights compared with Can∣dia.
• Aegypt weights compared with Cania.
• Aegypt weight compated with Brussia, Natolia.
• Aegypt weights compared with Con∣stantinople.
• Aegypt weight compared with Corfu.
• Aegypt weights compared with Rha∣gusa in Sla∣vonia.
• Aegypt weight compared with Catar∣ro in Dalma∣tia.
• Aegypt weights compared with Spollato in Istria.
• Aegypt weights compared with Ancona.
• Aegypt weights compared with Apulia.
• Aegypt weights compared with Sicilia.
• Aegypt weight compared with Tunis and Tripoli in Barbaria.
• The agree∣ment of the Cantar Forfo∣ri with other Countries.
• The agree∣ment of the Cantar Meno with other Countries.
• The agree∣ment of Can∣tar Zero with other Coun∣treys.
• Coins cur∣rent in Ae∣gypt.
• The Ac∣compts kept in Aegypt.
• The Cu∣sloms of A∣lexandria, Damietta and Aegypt.
• 54750 l.
• Madagas∣car.
• Otherwise S. Lawrence.
• Zocotara.
• St. Thomas.
• Canaries.
• The Trade thereof.
• Weights, Measures, &c. concur with Sevil.
• Island A•…•… called Ter∣cera.