An encouragement to colonies. By Sir William Alexander, knight..

AN ENCOVRAGEMENT TO COLONIES.

THe sending forth of Colo∣nies (seeming a nouelty) is esteemed now to bee a strange thing, as not one∣ly being aboue the cou∣rage of common men, but altogether alienated from their knowledge, which is no wonder, since that course though both ancient, and vsuall, hath beene by the intermis∣sion of so many ages discontinued, yea was impossible to be practised so long as there was no vast ground, howso∣euer men had beene willing, whereupon Plantations might haue beene made, yet there is none who will doubt but that the world in her infancy, and innocency, was first peo∣pled after this manner.

The next generations succeeding Shem planted in Asia, Chams in Africke, and Iaphets in Europe: Abraham and Lot were Captaines of Colonies, the Land then being as free as the Seas are now, since they parted them in euery part where they passed, not taking notice of natiues with∣out

impediment. That memorable troope of Iewes which Moses led from Aegypt to Canaan was a kind of Colonie though miraculously conducted by God, who intended thereby to aduance his Church and to destroy the rejected Ethnikes. Salmanezer King of Ashur was remarked for the first who did violate the naturall ingenuitie of this com∣mendable kind of policy by too politike an intention; for hauing transported the ten Tribes of Israel, to the end that transplanting and dispersing them, hee might either wea∣ken their strength, or abolish their memorie by incorpora∣ting of them with his other Subjects; he to preuent the dangers incident amongst remote vassals did send a Colo∣nie to inhabite Samaria of a purpose thereby to secure his late and questionable conquest.

Who can imagine by this industrious course of Planta∣tions, what an vnexpected progresse from a despised be∣ginning hath beene suddenly made to the height of great∣nesse! The Phoenicians quickly founded Sidon, and Tirus, so much renowned both by sacred, and humane writers, and a few Tirians builded Carthage, which had first no more ground allowed her than could be compassed by the extended dimensions of a Bulls hide, which for acquiring of the more ground they diuided in as many sundrie parts as was possible, yet in end that Town became the Mistresse of Afrike, and the riuall of Rome: and Rome it selfe that great Ladie of the World, and terrour to all Nations, am∣bitiously clayming for her first founders a few scandali∣zed fugitiues that fled from the ruines of Troy, did rise from small appearances to that exorbitancy of power, which at this day is remembred with admiration; Though the walls of it at that time were very lowe when the one bro∣ther did kill the other for jumping ouer them, either jea∣lousie already preuayling aboue naturall affection, or else vnaduised anger constructing that which might haue been casually or carelesly done, in a sinistrous sense to the hate∣full behauiour of insolency or scorne; Their number then was not only very small, but they wanted women, with∣out

which they could not encrease, nor subsist, till they ra∣uished the daughters of the Sabins, by a violent match at first, portending their future rapins, and what a furious off-spring they were likely to ingender. And when that haughty Citie beganne to suffer the miseries which she had so long beene accustomed to inflict vpon others, the vene∣rable Citie of Venice (keeping for so many ages a spotlesse reputation) was first begunne by a few discouraged per∣sons, who fleeing from the furie of the barbarous Nations that then encroached vpon Italie, were distracted with feare and (seeking for their safety) did stumble vpon a commo∣dious dwelling.

The Graecians were the first, at least of all the Gentiles, (who joyning learning with armes) did both doe, and write that which was worthie to be remembred; and that small parcel of ground whose greatnesse was then only va∣lued by the vertue of the inhabitants, did plant Trapizonde in the East, and many other Cities in Asia the lesse, the protecting of whose liberties was the first cause of warre between them and the Persian Monarchs; then besides all the adjacent Iles they planted Siracusa in Sicile, most part of Italie, which made it to bee called Graecia maior, and Marseills in France. O what a strange alteration! that this part, which did flourish thus, whilest it was possessed by vigorous spirits, who were capable of great enterprises, did so many braue things should now (the seate of base seruile people) become the most abject and contemptible part of all the Territories belonging to the barbarous Ottomans, whose insolent Ianissaries (as the Pretorian Guards did with their Emperours, and Mamalukes of Egypt with their Soldans) presume at this time to dispose of the Regall power, vpbrayding the miserable follie of Christians, who dangerously embarqued in intestine warres, though inui∣ted by an encountring occasion, neglect so great, so glo∣rious, and so easie a conquest.

The Romanes comming to command a well peopled World, had no vse of Colonies, but onely thereby to re∣ward

such old deseruing Souldiers as (age and merit plea∣ding an immunitie from any further constrained trauell) had brauely exceeded the ordinary course of time appoin∣ted for military seruice, which custome was vsed in Germa∣nie, France, Spaine, and Brittaine, and likewise that the Townes erected in this sort might serue for Citadels impo∣sed vpon euery conquered Prouince, whereof some doe flourish at this day, and of others nothing doth remaine but the very name onely, their ruines being so ruined, that wee can hardly condiscend vpon what solitary part to be∣stowe the fame of their former being.

I am loth by disputable opinions to dig vp the Tombes of them that more extenuated then the dust are buried in obliuion & will leaue these disregarded relicts of greatnesse to continue as they are, the scorne of pride, witnessing the power of time. Neither will I after the common custome of the world, ouerualuing things past disualue the present, but considering seriously of that which is lately done in Ireland, doe finde a Plantation there inferiour to none that hath beene heretofore. The Babylonians hauing conque∣red the Israelites did transplant them as exposed to ruine in a remote Countrey, sending others of their owne Na∣tion (that they might be vtterly extirpated) to inhabite Sa∣maria in their places. And our King hath only diuided the most seditious families of the Irish by dispersing them in sundry parts within the Countrey, not to extinguish, but to dissipate their power, who now neither haue, nor giue cause of feare. The Romanes did build some Townes which they did plant with their owne people by all rigour to curbe the Natiues next adjacent thereunto, And our King hath incorporated some of his best Brittaines with the Irish, planted in sundry places without power to op∣presse, but onely to ciuilize them by their example. Thus Ireland which heretofore was scarcely discouered, and on∣ly irritated by others, prouing to the English as the Lowe-Countries did to Spaine, a meanes whereby to waste their men, and their money, is now really conquered, becom∣ming

a strength to the State, and a glorie to his Majesties gouernment, who hath in the setling thereof excelled all that was commended in any ancient Colonie.

As all first were encouraged to Plantations by the large∣nesse of the conquests that were proposed vnto them, fea∣ring onely want of people, and not of land, so in after ages when all knowne parts became peopled, they were quickly entangled with the other extremitie, grudging to be boun∣ded within their prospect, and jarring with their neigh∣bours for small parcels of ground, a strife for limits limi∣ting the liues of many who entring first in controuersie vpon a point of profit though with the losse of ten times more, valuing their honour by the opinion of others be∣hooued to proceed as engaged for the safety of their repu∣tation. Then richesse being acquired by industrie, and glo∣rie by employments, these two did beget auarice, and am∣bition, which lodging in some subtile heads vpon a poli∣tike consideration to vnite intestine diuisions did transferre their splene to forraine parts, not seeking to rectifie the af∣fections, but to busie them abroad where least harme was feared, and most benefit expected, so that where they had first in a peaceable sort sought for Lands onely wherewith to furnish their necessity, which conueniency, or sufficien∣cy, did easily accommodate, now ayming at greatnesse the desires of men growne infinite, made them strangers to contentment, and enemies to rest.

Some Nations seeking to exchange for better seates, o∣thers to command their neighbours, there was for many ages no speach but of wrongs and reuenges, conquests and reuolts, razings and ruining of States, a continuall reuolu∣tion determining the periods of Time by the miseries of mankind, and in regard of the populousnesse of these ages during the Monarchies of the Assirians, Persians, Graecians, and Romanes, the world could not haue subsisted if it had not beene purged of turbulent humours by letting out the bloud of many thousands, so that warre was the vniuersall Chirurgeon of these distempered times: And thereafter

O what monstrous multitudes of people were slaine by huge deluges of barbarous armies that ouerflowed Italie, France and Spaine! and the Christians haue long beene subject to the like calamities wanting a commoditie how they might (not wronging others) in a Christian manner employ the people that were more chargeable then necessary at home, which was the cause of much mis∣chiefe among themselues, till at that time when Spaine was striuing with France how to part Italie, as Italie had formerly done with Carthage how to part Spaine. Then it pleased God hauing pitie of the Christians who for pur∣poses of small importance did prodigally prostitute the liues of them whom hee had purchased with so pretious a ransome, as it were for diuerting that violent kind of vani∣tie, to discouer a new world, which it would seeme in all reason should haue transported them with designes of more moment, whereby glory and profit with a guiltlesse labour was to bee attayned with lesse danger whereunto they are as it were inuited, and prouoked with so many e∣minent aduantages palpably exposed to any cleare judge∣ment that I thinke (this obuious facilitie vilifying that which a further difficulty might the more endeare) the easinesse of the prey hath blunted the appetite.

When Christopher Columbus had in vaine propounded this enterprise to diuers Christian Princes, Isabella of Ca∣stile against the opinion of her husband (though so much renowned for wit yet not reaching this mysterie) did first furnish him for a Voyage, as if it were fatall that that Na∣tion should owe the greatest part of their greatnesse to the female Sexe, And if the Spaniards would sincerely, and gratefully haue bestowed the benefits whereby God did al∣lure them to possesse this Land for the planting of it with Christians enclined to ciuilitie, and religion, it had at this day considering the excellency of the soyle, for all the per∣fections that nature could affoord; beene the most singu∣larly accomplished place of the world, but it hath infortu∣natly fallen out farre otherwise, that the treasures that are

drawne from thence (mynes to blowe vp mindes and rockes to ruine faith) doe proue the seed of dissention, the sinewes of the warre, and nurcerie of all the troubles a∣mongst Christians.

The Spaniards that were so happie as to chance first vp∣on this new World, were of all others (hauing but a vast mountainous Countrey) in regard of their scarcity of peo∣ple, most vnfit for planting thereof, and could not but soone haue abandoned the same, if they had not so quick∣ly encountred with the rich Mynes of Mexico, New Spaine and Peru, which were once likely to haue beene lost for lacke of wood, till the way was inuented of refining Sil∣uer by quicksiluer, which may bee easily done out of any oare that is free from Lead, and (all the Spaniards disday∣ning worke as a seruile thing belowe their abilities) their greatest trouble is the want of workmen: for the Natiues that are extant, suruiuing many vexations, if they become ciuile out of an indulgency to libertie, and ease, whereun∣to all the Americans (liking better of a penurious life thus then to haue plenty with taking paines) are naturally encli∣ned, that they may haue a secure ease warranted by an or∣der, doe betake themselues to Cloisters, so that they haue no meanes to prosecute these workes but by drawing yeer∣ly a great number of Negroes from Angola, and other parts, which being but an vnnaturall merchandise, are bought at a deare rate, and maintayned with danger, for they once of late, as I haue heard from one that was there at that time designed to murther their Masters, by a plot which should haue beene put in execution vpon a Good-friday, when all being exercised at their deuotion were least apt to apprehend such a wicked course, and it is alwaies feared that to reuenge what of necessitie they must suffer, and to procure their libertie hating most what they feele for the present, and hoping for better by a change, they will joyne with any strong enemy that landing there dare attempt the conquest of that Countrey.

I will not here insist in setting downe the manner how

the Spaniards made themselues Masters of so many rich and pleasant Countries, but doe leaue that to their owne Histories, though I confesse (like wisemen) they are very sparing to report the estate of these parts, and doe barre all strangers from hauing accesse thereunto, wishing to enjoy that which they loue in priuate, and not inconsiderately vanting by the vanitie of praises to procure vnto them∣selues the vexation that they might suffer by the earnest pursuit of emulating riuals, but as they did brauely begin, and resolutely prosecute their Discoueries in America, so hath it justly recompenced their courage, prouing the ground of all that greatnesse which at this time (not with∣out cause) doth make them (as able, or willing, to conquer others if not both) so much suspected by euery jealous State. And Henry the Seuenth the Salomon of England had his judgement onely condemned for neglecting that good occasion which was first offered vnto him by Colum∣bus, yet did he presently seeke to repaire his errour by sen∣ding forth Sebastian Chabot a Venetian who did discouer the Ile of Newfound-land, and this part of the Continent of America now intended to bee planted by his Majesties Subjects vnder the name of New England, and New Scot∣land, so that the fruits of his happie raigne still growing to a greater perfection and now ripe to bee gathered by this age, as he made way by the marriage of his eldest daugh∣ter for vniting these two Nations at home, so did hee the same likewise by this discouerie abroad, but the accom∣plishment of both was reserued for his Majestie now raign∣ing, and no Prince in the world may more easily effectuate such a purpose since his Dominions affoord abundance of braue men singularly valued for able bodies and actiue spi∣rits whereof the English haue already giuen good proofe of their sufficiency in forraine Plantations; but before I proceed further in that which doth concerne them I must obserue what the French haue done in this kind.

All such aduentrous designes out of ignorance, or enuie (either contemned, or doubtfully cēsured) are neuer appro∣ued,

nor imitated, til they be justified by the successe, & then many who had first been too distrustfull falling in the other extremitie of an implicite confidence, to redeeme their former neglects, doe precipitate themselues in needlesse dangers. After that the Spaniards were knowne to pro∣sper, and that it was conceiued by the Voyage of Chabot what a large vastnesse this new Continent was likely to proue, Francis the first did furnish forth ••ohn Verrizzon a Florentine, who did discouer that part of America which was first (and most justly) called New France, and now Ter∣ra Florida. And vpon his returne he affirming it to be (as it is indeed for all the excellencies of nature) one of the most pleasant parts of the world, This was the cause that after a long delay (during the space of two Princes whole raignes) some new Discoueries reuiuing the memory of this, in the yeere of God 1562. Charles the ninth (hauing a haughty mind, and being so rauished with a desire of glorie, that he was sometimes tempted by sinistrous suggestions in see∣king after it to goe vpon wrong grounds) was quickly en∣amoured with the eminency of such a singular designe, wherein hee did employ Iohn Ribaut, who comming to Florida, was kindly receiued by the Natiues there, and ha∣uing made choice of a place where to build a Fort, after hee had stayed a time giuing direction for such things as were necessarie to be done, he left forty men therein when hee came away with one Captaine Albert to command them, who after that hee had with difficulty beene freed from the danger of famine, and of fire (vnseasonably affe∣cting the disused austeritie of the Ancients) did for a small offence hang one of his companie with his owne hands, so losing both the dignitie of his place, and the hearts of his people at one time, which hee should haue beene extremely studious to preserue, esteeming them as fellowes of his sufferings, and coheires of his hopes, at least the qualitie of the offence and necessitie of his death should haue beene made so cleare, that as im∣porting a common good, all (if not vrging it) should at

least haue condiscended thereunto, but this errour of his was acquited in as rude a manner: for his companie put∣ting him to death did make choice of another Captaine, and despairing of a new supplie though wanting skilfull workmen for such a purpose (necessitie sharpning their wits) they builded a little Barque which they calfatted and made fit for the Seas with the Gummes of trees which they found there in stead of Pitch, and in place of Sayles they furnished her with such linnens as they had vpon their beds, and being thus set forth (couragiously ouercomming a number of admirable difficulties) did returne to France after a desperate manner.

The dangerlesse returne, and plausible hopes of Ribaut, assisted by the serious perswasions of the Admirall, (the re∣ceiued opinion of whose not questioned wisedome was enough to warrant any thing that had his approbation) did moue the French King to send out a great number of men with a competent prouision of all things requisite vnder the charge of Monsieur Laudonier, who had a prosperous Voyage, and a congratulated arriuall at the French Fort by the Sauages in Florida, but immediatly thereafter hee was extremely perplexed with the vnexpected, mutinies and fa∣ctious offers of some whom he had carried with him, who had not gone thither intending what they pretended, out of a cleare resolution to inhabite that bounds, but did one∣ly flee from some inconueniences that had vexed them at home, such men as hating labour they could not industri∣ously serue by their endeauours in a mechanike trade, so were they not capable of generous inspirations that pro∣uoke magnanimitie, but habitually bred to vice were natu∣rally enemies to vertue, which made thirtie of them taking away a Barke that belonged to the Plantation betake them∣selues to the Seas in hope (continuing as they had beene accustomed in naughty courses) to seize vpon a prize whereby they might incontinent bee made rich; and their designe in some measure had the projected issue, but in place of raising their fortunes (the Lord neuer blessing

them that abandon such a worthie worke, much lesse with a minde to doe mischiefe) it proued in end away to worke their confusion, And Laudoniere being hap∣pie to haue his companie purged of such pestiferous fel∣lowes did carrie himselfe brauely as became a commander, aduisedly enquiring concerning the Sauages, what their force was, what relation they had one to another, where they were friends or foes, how their pleasures were placed, and by what accounts they reckoned their gaines or losses, so that hee was alwaies ready as might stand best with the good of his affaires to assist, or oppose, to diuide, or agree any partie, thus by shewing power purchasing authoritie, til he drew the ballance of all businesse to bee swayed where hee would as being Master of the Countrey. Hereupon (the vmbragious aspersions of enuie so darkening reason that it could not discerne merite at least out of a depraued opinion with a derogatory censure cancelling all naturall ingenuitie, could not or would not acknowledge what was due thereunto) a report was spread in France by some that Laudoniere liued like a Prince disdayning the condition of a Subject, and the French out of a preposterous policie fea∣ring what they should haue wished that one of their owne Nation could be too great abroad, they sent backe Ribaut with a new commission to succeed him in his charge, (sha∣king thereby the first foundation of a growing greatnesse) who seeking to steale priuately vpon him to preuent aduer∣tisements that hee might take him at vnawares did hardly escape to haue beene sunke at his first entrie.

Immediatly after that Ribaut was admitted Gouernour (Laudoniere hauing shewed himselfe as dutifull to obey as he had beene skilfull in commanding) intelligence was gi∣uen them that sixe Spanish Ships were riding at an anchor not farre from thence, and he ambitiously aspiring to grace his beginning with some great matter against the aduice of all the rest with an obstinate resolution would needs goe and pursue them taking the best of the companie with him, and so left the Fort weakely guarded, which made it

to proue an easie prey for the Spaniards of whom the most part leauing their Ships (a minde transported with hope not thinking of paine) did march thorow the woods whence no perill was expected, and in a maruellous stormy night, as if the very Heauens (accessarily culpable) had conspired with the malice of men for the working of mis∣chief. When the Frenchmen (too much affecting their owne ease) had neglected their watch, surprizing their Fort did put them all to the sword, which extreme crueltie of theirs was brauely reuenged by one Captaine Gorgues a Gentle∣man of Burdeaux, who out of a generous disposition being sensible of this publike injurie whereby all his Nation was interested, as if it had only in particular imported the ruine of his owne fortunes, went of purpose to this part, and se∣cretly before his comming was knowne contracting a great friendship with the Sauages who did hate the austere coun∣tenance, and rigorous gouernment of the Spaniards, when it came to be compared with the insinuating formes of the French, he found the meanes by a stratagem that he vsed to entrap the Spaniards, by the death of them all expiating that which they had made his Countreymen formerly to suffer, yet after the manner of many being more apt to ac∣quire then to preserue (acting greater things when carried with the impetuositie of a present fury then hee could confirme with the constant progresse of a well setled reso∣lution) he made no more vse of his victorie, but returned back to France, flattering himself with the hope of a trium∣phall welcome, in place whereof by some meanes made Court he was proclaimed a Rebell, as a sacrifice appointed to appease Spaine. This was the last thing that the French did in Florida.

The next forraine aduenture was likewise procured by the Admirall, a worthie man, who would gladly haue di∣uer••ed the vindictiue dispositions of his Countrymen from the bloudy ciuile warres wherewith they were then entan∣gled, to prosecute some braue enterprise abroad whereby they might not be made guilty, and yet haue glorie, The

man that did offer himselfe for Conductor of the Voyage was one Villegagnon a Knight of Malta who then pretēded to be of the reformed religion (as all doe who affect to ap∣peare what they are not indeed) making shew of extraordi∣nary remorse, and zeale, and that hee had a desire to retire himselfe from the vanitie, corruption, and vexation of their parts to some remote place in America, where professing himselfe such as he was, he might (free from all kind of im∣pediments) begin a new life, and where he hoped to found such a Colony as should serue for a retreat to all those of the reformed Religion who (weary of the persecutiōs at home) would goe where they might liue with safety, and enjoy the libertie of their conscience, by this meanes hee got a great number to accōpany him, amongst whom was Iohn de Lerie their Minister, a learned man who wrote a discourse of all that passed in this Voyage, and there were sundry others that came from the Towne of Geneua, so that hauing a reasonable number and well prouided, hee embarqued and sayled towards Brasile, making choice of a place fit for a Plantation, where they found (the soile excellent, the Na∣tiues well inclined towards them, and a supplie comming in due time) all things so concurring for their contentment that they might haue begunne a great worke happie and hopefull for their posteritie, if Ʋillagagnon had beene the man that he made them beleeue he was, but he apparantly neuer louing them of the Religion in his heart had coun∣terfeited to doe so for a time, onely (angling their affe∣ctions) by this meanes to draw a supply from them; for as soone as hee was setled in his gouernment, that hee found himselfe strong enough by Catholikes, and others of his friends that he had with him to doe (as hee thought) what he would, straight, remouing the maske that hypocrisie had put vpon him, he discharged all exercise of the refor∣med religion which no man with more feruency had pro∣fessed then himselfe, commanding all to conforme them∣selues to the orders that he had set downe, but (in place of feare which he purposed to giue, receiuing hut contempt)

this base kind of carriage did quite ouerthrow and they making a partie amongst themselues did remoue with their Minister Iohn de Lerie, which diuision of their Colonie in two was the was cause that neither could subsist, so that Ʋillagagnon abandoning that Countrey, all after many seuerall designes returned vnto France, ha∣uing found no impediment to so good a purpose but the peruersenesse of such mindes as they had earried with them.

Monsieur De Larauerdier a very worthie Gentleman did of late enterprise the like course in the same bounds, and was crossed in the same manner by the difference of Religion (disputations quickning them to contrauert who will not be conuerted) that distracted his companie with seuerall opinions, yet at this time a long continuance ma∣king that lesse strange amongst the French then it was wont to be, the Gentleman did command with such judgement, and discretion, that what euer priuate dislike was, it neuer bursted forth in any open insurrection. And for the space of foure or fiue yeeres being befriended by the Natiues, though continually opposed both by the Spaniards, and by the Portugals, yet he alwaies preuayled, liuing (as himselfe told me) with more contentment then euer he had done in his time either before or since; hee could neuer discerne any Winter there by the effects, seeing no stormy weather at all, and finding a continuall greennesse to beautifie the fields, which did affoord such abundance, and variety of all things necessary for the maintaynance, that they were neuer in any danger of famine, but in end finding no more people comming from France, and fearing that time should weare away them that were with him; then being flatte∣red with the loue of his natiue soyle, longing to see his friends, and tempted by the hope of a present gaine, which as he imagined might the better enable him for some such purpose in an other part, he capitulated with the Spaniards to surrēder the place hauing assurāce giuen him for a great summe of money which should haue beene deliuered in

Spaine, but comming to receiue the same (it being more easie to pay debt by reuenging a pretended injurie then with money which some would rather keepe then their Faith) he was cast in prison, where hee remayned long, till at last he was deliuered by the mediation of our Kings Am∣bassadour, and came here where I spake with him of pur∣pose to giue his Majestie thankes- I heare that for the pre∣sent he is now at Rochell (with a hope to repaire his error) ready to embarque for some such like enterprise. This is all that the Frenchmen haue done in the South parts of A∣merica, and now I will make mention of their proceedings in these parts that are next vnto vs.

Francis the first of France a braue Prince, and natural∣ly giuen to great things, after the Voyage made by Iohn Verrizan (Chabot hauing discouered the Continent for Henry the seuenth) did send forth Iames Quartier one of Saint Malo, who by two seuerall Voyages did discouer the Riuer of Cannada, and by his relation doth commend it exceedingly as being fertile in variety of Fishes, and bor∣dered with many pleasant meadowes, and stately woods, hauing in sundry parts abundance of Vines growing wilde, chiefly in one Ile which he hath called by the name of the Ile of Orleans. This man neuer made any Plantation at all, but onely discouered and traffiqued with the Sauages, neither was there any further done by Roberwall, who did liue one Winter at Cape Breton.

The Marquesse De la Roche by a Commission from Henry the fourth, intending a Voyage for Cannada, hap∣pened by the way vpon the Ile of Sablon (which is now comprehended within the Patent of New Scotland) and there (trusting to the strength of the place where there are no Sauages at all) landed some of his men till hee should haue found a conuenient place within the maine Land fit for habitation, promising then to returne for them; but it was his fortune by reason of contrary winds neuer to finde the maine Land, being blowne backe to France with∣out seeing of them, where he was in the time of the ciuile

warres (such is the vncertainty of worldly things produ∣cing vnexpected effects) taken prisoner by the Duke of Mercoeur, and shortly after died, so that his people whom hee had left at Sablon furnished but for a short time had quickly spent their prouisions, and tooke for their maintay∣nance onely such things as the place it selfe did without labour freely affoord, which hath a race of Kowes (as is thought) first transported thither by the Portugals that haue long continued there, and sundry roots fit to be eaten, with abundance of Fishes, Fowle and Venison. And (ha∣uing no meanes to liue but by sport) as for their apparell they clothed themselues with the skinnes of such crea∣tures as they could kill by Land, or Sea, so that liuing there for the space of twelue yeeres when they were pre∣sented to Henry the fourth who had hired a Fisherman to bring them home, as I haue heard from them that did see them at first before the King, they were in very good health, and looked as well, as if they had liued all that time in France: But hauing beene abused by the Fisherman who (cunningly concealing that he had beene directed by the King) did bargaine with them to haue all their skinnes for transporting them home, which were of great value, some of them being of blacke Foxes, which were sold at fiftie pounds sterling a piece, and aboue, for the recouerie thereof they intended a processe against him before the Court of Parliament at Paris, wherein by the equitie of their cause, or by the compassion of the Iudges, they pre∣uayled, gayning by that meanes a stocke wherewith to traf∣fique in these parts againe.

Monsieur De Montes procuring a Patent from Henry the fourth of Cannada from the 40. degree Eastward compre∣hending all the bounds that is now both within New Eng∣land and New Scotland (after that Queene Elizabeth had formerly giuen one thereof as belonging to this Crowne by Chabots Discouerie) did set forth with a hundred per∣sons fitted for a Plantation, carried in two ships of small burthen, which parting from France on seuerall dayes did

appoint their meeting at the Port of Campseau, but the ship wherein Monsieur De Montes had placed himselfe going first, and fearing the huge Mountaines of Ice that dissol∣uing from the farre Northerne parts come alongst the coast of Newfound-land during the Spring time, did take her course more to the South, and arriued at Port De Muton a Bay now in the fore-land of New Scotland, from whence one of the Natiues of the Countrey (either out of courte∣sie, or to gayne a reward) leauing his Wife and Children (as a pledge, or else to bee nourished with them) went to Campseau, and within a weeke brought them newes from their other Ship that had arriued there, which comming to them, and Monsieur Champlein who had gone in a shal∣lop to discouer the coast being returned, they sayled toge∣ther Westwards to Cape Sable, and from thence North∣wards to Bay Saint Maries, where towards the South side thereof they found good meadowes and arable ground fit to be planted vpon, and towards the North a mountai∣nous and minerall bounds, hauing discouered one veine of metall that did hold Siluer, and two of Iron stone: After this, hauing seene Port Royall, they went to the Riuer cal∣led by them Sante Croix, but more fit now to bee called Tweed, because it doth diuide New England and New Scot∣land, bounding the one of them vpon the East, and the o∣ther vpon the West side thereof, here they made choice of an Ile that is within the middle of the same where to win∣ter, building houses sufficient to lodge their number; There, besides other sorts of wood, they had store of Ce∣dar trees, and found the ground very fertile as it did proue afterwards, bringing forth that which they did sow with an extraordinary encrease, yet during the Winter time when they could not conueniently goe to the maine Land, they found it a very incommodious dwelling, specially for want of fresh Springs; And the soyle being of it selfe humid, and obnoxious to waters, they had not beene so industrious as to cast a ditch wherewith to drie the ground whereupon their houses stood, and in end finding that a little Ile was

but a kind of large prison, they resolued to returne vnto Port Royall, whereof I will giue a particular Description, because it was the place of their residence, as I intend it to be for the chiefe Colonie of the Scottish Nation, grounding that which I am to deliuer vpon such Discourses as the Frenchmen haue written, and vpon that which I haue heard reported by sundry others who haue seene the same.

The entry in Port Royall is from the South side of a great Bay, which doth make the South part of New Scotland al∣most an Ile, and hath the passage at first so narrow, with a current so violent, that Ships can hardly enter if they take not the Tide right, and may easily be commanded by any Ordnance that is planted on either side, where there are parts fit for that purpose; As soone as they are within the Bay, it doth enlarge it selfe to the bredth of seuen or eight miles, and doth continue so as if it were square for the like bounds in length; There are within the same two Iles e∣uery one of them extending it selfe about three miles in circuit, and both are well garnished with trees, and grasse; Diuers Riuers and Brookes doe fall within this large bo∣some on euery side, of which the chiefe is one that doth come from the South, being discouered to be aboue fortie miles portatiue, and it hath all alongst on euery side for the bounds of a mile, or halfe a mile at least, very faire mea∣dowes which are subject to bee ouerflowed at high tides, and there is Land fit to be laboured lying betweene them and the woods, which doe compasse all about with very faire trees of sundry sorts, as Oakes, Ash, Playnes, Maple, Beech, Birch, Cypresse, Pine and Firre; The great Riuer doth abound exceedingly in Salmon and Smelts during their season, and euery little Brooke in Trouts. One Lake within this Bay hath yeerely a great quantitie of Herrings, which by reason of a strict way which they passe are easie to be taken, and all the yeere ouer they neuer want shell∣fish, such as Lobsters, Crabs, Cockles and Mussels. The chiefe beasts that inhabite the Woods there, are Ellans, Hart, Hind, and fallow Deere, with store of other wilde

beasts, such as Wolues, Beares, Foxes, and Otters, but the most vsefull of all is the Beauer, both for his flesh that is esteemed to be very delicate for eating, and for the skinne that is of good value; as for wild foule, there is great varie∣tie and store, of Partridges, Plouers, Woodcockes, Larkes, Wild Geese, Wild Duckes, Heron and Crane, with many other forts peculiar to that part of the World, and not knowne here.

Vpon the East side of this Port the French did entrench themselues, building such houses as might serue to accom∣modate their number, and a little from thence Monsieur Champlein did cut a walke through the Woods, where they delighted to repaire in Summer to shroud themselues from the heate, and the rather that they had a sweet Me∣lodie which was made by the varietie of voyces, of singing Birds which without any affectation did affoord them na∣turall Musicke.

Some sixe miles further vp that side of the Riuer they built a Barne, and laboured ground for Wheat; ouer against which they made-a Water-mill vpon a Riuer, that doth fall in on the West side, the Damme of it beeing there where the Herrings haunt most, and they did likewise try some ground neere by for Wheate, whereas their owne Writers make mention, they reaped aboue fortie for one, but what they did was rather trying the nature of the soile to satisfie their curiositie then to haue a quantitie fit for their maintenance, which they trusted to bee sent vnto them by two Merchants from the Rochell, and were that way well furnished so long as they keeped their skinnes to giue them in exchange (but the Merchants either by some priuate conueyances) or by the comming in of some Flemmings to traffique, being disappointed by the Planters as soone as they missed their present Commoditie did like∣wise frustrate them of the prouisions that they expe∣cted. Whereupon Monsieur de Montes betaking him∣selfe to trade for Furres. Monsieur Poutrincourt resolued to prosecute the Plantation at that place, and lent for his So••

Biencourt to France, to bargaine with some that would send them a supply, such as was requisite for establishing of that Colony.

The first that embraced his Propositions were the Ie∣suites who as they haue ordinarly good wits which made them the rather capable of so aduantagious a proiect, so they were the more animated thereunto (by vpbrayding the lazinesse of our Clergie) to shew with what feruencie they trauell to propagate the Gospell in doing whereof (whither it be ambition or deuotion that prouokes them sparing no paines) they haue trauelled both to the East and West Indies, and to that admired Kingdome of China; their Societie in France preuayling with all that had any incli∣nation either to religion, or to vertue did easily gather a voluntary contribution for the furthering of so commen∣dable a purpose, thereafter they sent away two Fathers of their company with a new supply of all things necessarie to the Plantation at Port Royall, but shortly after their ar∣riuall (their predominant disposition hardly yeelding to any Superiour, specially if it be a Secular power) they be-beganne to contradict Poutrincourt, in the execution of these Decrees which had beene giuen forth by him as Ciuil Magistrate of that place. Whereupon the Gentleman ex∣treamely discontented, and wearie of contesting with them, hauing said that it was his part to rule them vpon earth, and theirs onely to guide him the way to Heauen, he returned backe to France, leauing his Sonne Biencourt in his place, who being a youth at that time of more courage then circumspectnesse, disdayning to be controlled by them whom he had inuited thither, and scorning their insuppor∣table presumption, and imperious kinde of carriage, vsing Spirituall Armes for Temporall ends, whose spleene had excommunicated and branded him with a Spirituall cen∣sure, hee threatned them by his Temporall power with a more palpable panishment, so that after much controuer∣sie, resoluing to separate themselues, the two Iesuites ta∣king a part of the company with them, went from thence

to a place in New England, called by them Mount Desert' where they seated themselues, and hauing a supply from the Queene Mother, did plant sundry fruit trees of the most delicate kinds in France, such as Apricockes and Pea∣ches neuer intending to remoue from thence.

At this time Sir Samuell Argall, who hath beene Go∣uernour of Virginia, coasting alongst New England, to traf∣fique, discouer, or to acquire things necessary for the Sou∣therne Colonie in these parts, where the Lands are reputed to be more fertile, and the Seas more frequented, did con∣ceiue by a description made vnto him by the Sauages, that there were some come from this part of the World to in∣habit there, and being iealous of any thing that might de∣rogate from the honour, or prooue preiudiciall to the bene∣fit of his Nation, whereof their interest in this was easie to be apprehended, hee went whereas hee was informed that they were, and his vnexpected arriuall, as it would seeme, not onely amazing the mindes of the French, but likewise preuenting their preparation, and resolution, he approched so neere to a ship that lay before their Fore, that hee beate them all that were within, with Musket shot, from ma∣king any vse of their Ordnance, and killed one of the two Iesuites, who was giuing fire to a Peece; hauing taken the ship he landed and went before the Fort, summoning them that were within to yeeld themselues, who at the first made some difficultie, asking a time to aduise, but that be∣ing refused, they priuately abandoned the Fort, stealing out by some back way into the Woods, where they stayed one night, and the next day comming backe rendred them∣selues, giuing vp the Patent they had from the French King to bee cancelled, hee vsed them courteously, as their owne Writers doe make mention, suffering such as had a minde to goe for France, to seeke out fishers ships wherein they might bee transported, the rest that were willing to goe for Ʋirginia, went thither alongst with him, no man hauing lost his life, but onely that one Iesuite who was kil∣led whilest they made resistance during the time of the

conflict, thereafter Father Biard the other of the Iesuites comming back from Ʋirginia, with Sir Samuell Argall, out of the indigestable malice that he had conceiued against Biencourt, did informe him where he had planted himselfe offering (as hee did) to conduct him thither. As soone as they were entred within the Port, neere the vppermost of the Ilands, Sir Samuell directing the ship to ride at a reaso∣nable distance to attend occasions before the Fort, did land himselfe with fortie of the best of his men vpon a Medow, where immediatly they heard a Peece of Ordnance from the Fort, and he conceiuing since it was shot whilst it could do no harme that it was done either but to giue terrour to them, or to warne some that might happen to bee abroad, Did make the greater haste towardes the Fort, where hee presently entred, finding it abandoned without any men at all, left for the defence thereof, hee went vp the Riuer side fiue or sixe miles, where hee saw their Barnes and the ground where a great quantitie of Wheate had growne, which he carried with him to serue for Seed in Virginia, he saw likewise their Corne Mill very conueniently placed, which together with the Barnes hee left standing vntou∣ched. As for the Fort it selfe he destroyed it downe to the ground, razing the French Armes, and leauing no monu∣ment remayning, that might witnesse their being there.

After this Biencourt who had beene some where abroad trauelling through the Countrey, comming home desired to conferre with Sir Samuell Argall, who did meete with him apart from the Company vpon a Medow, and after they had expostulated a space for what had past contro∣uerting concerning the French and English Title to these bounds, at last Biencourt offered (If hee might haue a prote∣ction) to depend vpon our King, and to draw the whole Furres of that Countrey to one Port, where he would di∣uide them with him, As likewise he would shew him good Metalls, whereof hee gaue him pieces, but the other refu∣sed to ioyne in any societie with him, protesting that his Commission was onely to displant him, and that if hee

found him there, after that time hee would vse him as an enemy. Biencourt labouring earnestly to haue had the Iesuit (as he confessed) with a purpose to hang him. Whilst they were discoursing together, one of the Sauages came sud∣denly forth from the Woods, and licentiated to come neere, did after his manner earnestly mediate a peace, wondring why they that seemed to bee of one Countrey should vse others with such hostilitie, and that with such a forme of habit and gesture as made them both to laugh.

After this Biencourt remoouing from thence to some o∣ther part, Monsieur Champlein who had liued long here, did carrie a company with him from France, of some fortie persons or thereabouts vp the Riuer of Canada, whom hee planted on the North side thereof, with a purpose to serue for a Factorie, drawing all the Trade of that farre running Riuer (which a Plantation would haue dispersed in many parts) within the hands of a few whom he doth command otherwise if his desires had beene bended that way, hee might haue planted many people there ere now, the place is called Kebeck, where the French doe prosper well, ha∣uing Corne by their owne labour, which may furnish themselues for food, and likewise for a stocke to trassique with the Sauages, with sundry Fruits, Roots, Vine, Grapes and Turkie Wheate. Champlein hath discouered the Riuer of Canada, from the Gulfe vpwards aboue twelue hundred miles, finding in it sometimes such falles, as to scape the same, he must carrie his Boate a little way by Land, and then hee did many times come to great Lakes at the end whereof hee did alwayes find a Riuer againe, and the last Lake where hee came was a very huge one, iudged to bee three hundred miles in length, by the report of some Sa∣uages, who did affirme vnto him, that at the further end thereof they did find Salt-water, and that they had seene great Vessels which made Champlein beleeue that a passage might be there to the Bay of California, or to some part of the South Sea, which would prooue an inestimable benefit for the Inhabitants of those parts, opening a neere way to

China, which hath beene so many sundry wayes with so great charges so long sought for, howsoeuer in regard of the season, and for want of necessary prouisions, Champlein did returne backe at that time with a purpose to goe againe another yeere, which if he hath done is not yet knowne, but this is most certaine, that the Riuer of Canada hath a long course and through many goodly Countreyes, some of these great Lakes by sending forth, or by receiuing great Riuers, do affoord meanes of commerce as farre as to some parts of Terra Florida, as may bee gathered by Champleins Discouerie. And now hauing giuen a breuiarie of all that is done by the French in America, will next report of that which hath beene done by some others.

I will not here make mention of the many and braue Voyages that at the Sea haue happily beene performed by the English, which same by eternall records hath recom∣mended to be applauded by the best judgements of euery age, but I will only shortly touch that which they haue at∣tempted by way of Plantation, beginning with the New∣found Land which was first discouered, and doth lie neerest to this Countrey. Sir Humfrey Gilbert hauing a Commis∣sion from Queene Elizabeth did take possession of it in her name at Saint Iohns Harbour, and thereafter purposed to haue seene Canada, but encountring with some vnexpe∣cted crosses as hee was returning from thence, seeking to condemne an opinion (malice or enuie ordinarily taxing all aspiring spirits whose vertue by way of reflection doth vpbraide the basenesse of others) that had beene conceiued of him as wanting courage, he precipitated himselfe vpon an other extremitie, not to seeme fearefull, prouing despe∣rate; for in the time of a storme, out of a needlesse braue∣rie, to shew a contempt of danger, being in a little small Pinnace, and refusing to come to his best Shippe that was of a large burden, hee was suddenly swallowed vp by the waues neere to the Ile of Sablon, and his death did ouer∣throwe great hopes of a Plantation that by the generous∣nesse of his minde might justly haue beene expected from

him; but long before his time and euer since the English had vsed to fish vpon the Banke, and within the Bayes of Newfound Land, and the sweetnesse of the benefit arrising from thence, did perswade a companie composed of Lon∣doners and West-country men to joyne together for sen∣ding some to inhabite there, where before howsoeuer the Summer was large as hote as here, the Winter was thought vnsufferable.

The first houses for a habitation were built in Cupids Coue within the Bay of Conception, where people did dwell for sundry yeeres together, and some well satisfied both for pleasure, and profit, are dwelling there still, finding small difference betweene the seasons of the yeere in that Cli∣mate, and here. There is another Plantation begunne at Harbour à Grace within the same Bay by the Citie of Bristoll called Bristols Hope, whereas by the sowing and reaping of some Cornes of sundry sorts doth appeare what further may possibly be expected; And within these three yeeres Master Secretary Caluert hath planted a companie at Ferriland, who both for building and making triall of the ground haue done more then euer was performed be∣fore by any in so short a time, hauing already there a brood of Horses, Kowes, and other beastial, and by the industry of his people he is beginning to draw back yeerly some bene∣fit from thence already: which course howsoeuer at first it proue good, or bad for his particular, is by example benefi∣ciall for the publike.

Last, I heare that my Lord Vicount Falkland now Lord Deputie of Ireland, hath this last yeere sent a companie to inhabite at Renouze a place lying South-west from Ferri∣land, where the soyle is esteemed to be the best whereupon any hath setled there as yet, and hee hath the shortest way, and best opportunitie of any within his Majesties Domini∣ons for transporting of people and cattell to that part from Ireland, which if his course bee rightly directed, as all haue reason to wish, may promise him a good successe.

The first Patentees for Newfound-land haue giuen mee

a grant of that part thereof which doth lie North-west from the Bay of Placentia to the great Gulfe of Canada ouer-against New Scotland, where I had made a Plantation ere now, if I had not beene diuerted by my designes for New Scotland, but I purpose to doe it as soone as conueniently I may. The most part of the bounds whereupon any hath planted as yet in Newfound Land is found to be rockie and not fit to be manured: it may be these that made choice thereof (neglecting the Land) had onely a regard to dwell commodiously for making vse of the Sea, the present pro∣fits whereof doth recompence the losse of that which might be expected by the other, but there can be no hope of any constant dwelling where the people that inhabite doe not take a course to maintaine themselues by their owne Cornes, and pasture, as all there might doe, if they would respect their posteritie more then the present time.

Before I come to the Continent I must remember the Iles of the Bermudas, whose Discouerie and Plantation was procured by so strange a meanes, for a Ship happening to perish vpon their Coast, her passingers seeking the next Land for a refuge, they were compelled to doe that out of necessitie whereunto in good reason, both for honour and profit, they might more warrantably haue beene inuited; Thus doth benefit flowe from losse, safety from ruine, and the Plantation of a Land from the desolation of a Shippe: they found at the first store of Hogs, which in all appea∣rance had their beginning from some such an accident as theirs was, and the Fowles were there in abundance so easie to be taken that they could scarcely be frighted away, these first people by repairing of their Ship which was cast away vpon the Land, or by building some other Vessell out of her mines, comming backe to England, and reporting what was past, some joyned together in a companie after they had taken a Patent thereof from the King, and did send people of purpose to inhabite there, who trusting too much to the goodnesse of the soyle, and neglecting their owne industrie, or not gouerning that well which was car∣ried

with them, were reduced to a great distresse for want of victuals, so that, if they had not beene confined within an Iland (more sensible of a present suffering then capable of future hopes) they would willingly haue retired from thence, but a great quantitie of Ambergreece hauing been found by one by chance, and sent backe in a Ship that was going for London, their Merchants finding it to bee of a great value, were so encouraged by such a substantiall ar∣gument, that they presently dispatched away a new supply of persons and all prouisions necessary, who arriuing there, and hauing considered what a gulfe of famine was likely to haue swallowed their fellowes, they improuing their judgement by the others experience, by betaking them∣selues to labour in time did preuent the like inconue∣nience; there is no Land where men can liue without la∣bour, nor none so barren whence industrie cannot draw some benefit, All Adams posteritie were appointed to worke for their food, and none must dreame of an absolute case, which can no where subsist positiuely, but onely com∣paratiuely, according to the occasions more or lesse.

This Plantation of the Bermudas, a place not knowne when the King came to England, hath prospered so in a short time, that at this present, besides their ordinary (and too extraordinarily valued) commoditie of Tobacco, they haue growing there Oranges, Figs, and all kind of fruits that they please to plant, and doe now intend to haue a Su∣gar worke. These Iles being about twentie miles in bredth can onely be entred into but by one passage, which is forti∣fied and easily commanded by Ordnance, so that, hauing no Sauages within, and fearing no forces without, it is esteemed to be impregnable; and the number of the In∣habitants there, being neere three thousand persons, are suf∣ficient for the ground that they possesse, This part may proue exceedingly steadable to this State, if euer it happer to haue (as it hath heretofore had) any designes for seru••e in these Seas.

The first Plantation that euer the English intened a∣broad

was in Ʋirginia, which was first discouered and na∣med so by Sir Walter Raleigh, who in the time of Queene Elizabeth did place some persons, to inhabite there, who not being supplied in time, or out of ignorance, or lazi∣nesse, not vsing the ordinary means (the vsual fault of all be∣ginners) were brought by famine to a great extremity. And Sir Francis Drakes comming by chance that way did trans∣port them backe with him to England, whilest at the same time there was another companie furnished forth by Sir Walter Raleigh, who missing them whom they expelled to haue found there, did remaine still themselues; but what did become of them, if they did remoue to some other part, perish, disperse, or incorporate with the Sauages (no monument of them remayning) is altogether vnknowne; This noble worke hauing so hard a beginning after a long discontinuance was reuiued againe in the Kings time by a companie composed of Noblemen, Gentlemen, and Mer∣chants, who (joyning priuate purses with publike supplies) did send thither a sufficient Colonie, well furnished with all things necessary, who after their first comming had a conti∣nuall warre with the Natiues, till it was reconciled by a Marriage of their Kings sister with one of the Colonie, who hauing come to England, as shee was returning backe, died, and was buried at Grauesend. Thus euen amongst these Sauages (libertie being valued aboue life) as they were induced to contest in time, before that power which they suspected, could come to such a height, that it might haue a possibilitie of depressing them, so was their malice with their feares, quickly calmed by the meanes of a mar∣riage; Lawfull allyances thus by admitting equalitie re∣moue contempt, and giue a promiscuous otf-spring extin∣guishing the distinction of persons, which if that People become Christians, were in some sort tolerable, for it is the onely course that vniting minds, free from jealousies, can first make strangers confide in a new friendship, which by communicating their bloud with mutuall assurance is left here••••••ary to their posteritie.

This longed for peace, though it bred a great content∣ment for the time, was attended by wrapping them that apprehended no further danger (too common an inconue∣nient vp in the lazie remissenesse of improuident securitie. For a number leaning the feate of the mayne Colonie, did disperse themselues to liue apart, as if they had bin into a well inhabited Countrey, which (as perchance) it had em∣boldened the Sauages to imbrace the first occasion of a quarrell, so did it giue them an casie way for executing the mischiefe that they intended, by killing two or three hun∣dred persons before they could aduertize one another, farre lesse, ioyne to oppose them in a company together, which course might not onely then haue made them able to resist, but preuenting the others resolution had kept them from being pursued: yet I heare of late, that they haue reuen∣ged this iniury (though (as some report) not after a com∣mendable manner) by killing their King, with a great number of the chiefe of them whom they suspected most.

This Plantation of Ʋirginia, if it had not beene crossed by the Incursion of the Sauages abroad, and by the diuision of their Owners at home, had at tayned to a great perfecti∣on ere now, hauing had Inhabitants from hence to the number of neere three thousand persons, and if some of them who are there, being Lords of reasonable proporti∣ons of ground, and hauing people of their owne, owing no∣thing but due obedience to a Superiour Power, and the lea∣ding of a life conforme to the Lawes, had no care but (ma∣king their Lands to maintayne themselues) how to build, plant, and plenish in such sort as might best establish a for∣tune for their Posteritie, they might quickly make vp a new Nation, but it is a great discouragement vnto them who dwell there, that they must labour like the Seruants of a Family, purchasing their food and rayment from England, in exchange of Tobacco, as they are directed by their Ma∣sters, many whereof are strangers to the estate of that bounds, and intending to settle none of their Race there,

haue no care but how the best benefit may presently bee drawne backe from thence, the number of voyces at their assemblies preuayling more then the soundnesse of iudge∣ment, otherwise that Countrey before this time for Wine, Oyle, Wheate, and other things necessary for the life of man might haue equalled for the like quantitie any bounds within Europe, to which the soile of it selfe lac∣king nothing but the like industry is no way inferiour. And it is to be exceedingly wished by all his Maiesties sub∣iects that the Plantation of Virginia may prosper well, which lying neerest to the part from whence danger might come, may proue a Bulwarke for the safetie of all the rest.

That which is now called New England was first com∣prehended within the Patent of Virginia, being the North∣east part thereof, it was vndertaken in a Patent by a com∣pany of Gentlemen in the West of England, one of whom was Sir Iohn Popham then Lord Chiefe Iustice, who sent the first company that went of purpose to inhabit there neer to Segadahoek, but those that went thither, being pres∣sed to that enterprize, as endangered by the Law, or by their owne necessities (no enforced thing prouing pleasant, discontented persons suffering, while as they act can sel∣dome haue good successe, and neuer satisfaction) they after a Winter stay dreaming to themselues of new hopes at home returned backe with the first occasion, and to iustifie the suddennesse of their returne, they did coyne many ex∣cuses, burdening the bounds where they had beene with all the aspersions that possibly they could deuise, seeking by that meanes to discourage all others, whose prouident forwardnes importuning a good successe, might make their base sluggishnesse for abandoning the beginning of a good worke, to be the more condemned.

About a foure yeeres since, a shippe going for Virginia, comming by chance to harbour in the South-west part of New England, neere Cape Cod, the company whom shee carried for Plantation, being weary of the Sea, and enamo∣red with the beautie of the bounds that first offered it selfe vnto them gorgeously garnished with all wherewith

pregnant nature rauishing the sight with variety) can grace a fertile field, did resolue to stay, and seated themselues in that place which is now called New Plimmouth, where they haue builded good houses, and by their owne industry haue prouided themselues in such sort as they are likely to subsist, keeping a good correspondencie with the Captaines of the Sauages, who haue done nothing hitherto that might offend them (and after this) though they would dare at∣tempt nothing to their preiudice, who are now aboue two hundred persons, and doe increase their number yeerely. They find both the Land and the Seas there abounding in all things needfull for the vse of man, and doe gouerne themselues after a very ciuill and prouident manner.

Sir Ferdinando Gorge hath beene a chiefe man for the furtherance of all things that might tend to the aduance∣ment of New England, hauing beene at great charges these many yeeres past for the Discouerie thereof, in doing which (a good intention bent for other ends, casually bringing forth this effect) the fishing there(not sought for) was found, which doth prooue now so profitable, as fortie or fiftie Sayle are imployed there from England yeerely, and all that haue gone thither, haue made aduantagious Voyages.

This last yeere, hee sent his Sonne Captaine Robert Gorge with a Colonie to be planted in Messasuats bonds, and as I heare out of a generous desire by his example to encourage others for the aduancement of so braue an En∣terprize he is resolued shortly to goe him selfe in person, and to carrie with him a great number well fitted for such a purpose, and many Noblemen in England, (whose names and proportions as they were marshalled by lot, may ap∣peare vpon the Map) hauing interressed themselues in that bounds, are to send s••uerall Colonies, who may quickly make this to exceed all the other Plantations.

Hauing sundry times exactly weighed that which I haue alreadie deliuered, and beeing so exceedingly enflamed to doe some good in that kinde, that I would rather bewray

the weaknesse of my power, then conceale the greatnesse of my desire, being much encouraged hereunto by Sir Fer∣dinando Gorge, and some others of the vndertakers for New England, I shew them that my Countrimen would neuer aduenture in such an Enterprize, vnlesse it were as there was a New France, a New Spaine, and a New England, that they might likewise haue a New Scotland, and that for that effect they might haue bounds with a correspondencie in proportion (as others had) with the Countrey whereof it should beare the name, which they might hold of their owne Crowne, and where they might bee gouerned by their owne Lawes; they wisely considering that either Ʋirginia, or New England, hath more bounds then all his Maiesties subiects are able to plant, and that this purpose of mine, by breeding a vertuous emulation amongst vs, would tend much to the aduancement of so braue a worke, did yeeld to my desire, designing the bounds for mee in that part, which had beene questioned by the French, and lea∣uing the limits thereof to bee appointed by his Maiesties pleasure, which are expressed in the Patēt granted vnto me, vnder his great Seale of his Kingdom of Scotland, marching vpon the West towardes the Riuer of Saint Croix now Tweed (where the Frenchmen did designe their first Habita∣tion) with New England, and on all other parts it is com∣passed by the great Ocean, and the great Riuer of Canada, so that though sundry other preceding Patentes are ima∣ginarily limited by the degrees of the Heauen, I thinke that mine be the first National Patent that euer was cleer∣ly bounded within America by particular limits vpon the Earth.

As soone as my Patent was passed, resoluing to take pos∣session of the Lands, that were granted vnto me, I proui∣ded my selfe of a ship at London, in the moneth of March, in Anno 1622. but that the businesse might beginne from that Kingdome, which it doth concerne, whereby some of my Countrimen might be perswaded to goe, and others by conceiuing a good opinion thereof, to depend by expecta∣tion

vpon the reports of such of their acquaintance, as were to aduenture in that Voyage, I directed her to go about by S. Georges Channell, to Kirkcubright, where she arriued in the end of May; Some Gentlemen of that country, vpon whose friendship I reposed most, happening at that time to bee out of the Kingdome, I encountred with sundry vnexpe∣cted difficulties: the prizes of victuals beeing within the space of three monethes, since I had parted before from Scotland, suddenly tripled, and yet so scarce as I could hard∣ly in haste bee well furnished, yet since I was so far aduan∣ced, lest I should loose that which was done, if I did not the rest, I vsed the best diligence I could to prouide the shippe with all things necessary. Then the very people specially Artizens, of whom I stood in need, were at first loth to im∣barke for so remote a part, as they imagined this to bee, some scarce beleeuing that there could bee any such bounds at all, and no wonder, since neuer any in that part had euer trauelled thither, and all nouelties beeing distrusted, or disualued, few of good sort would goe, and ordinarie persons were not capeable of such a purpose.

At last, in the end of Iune, they parted from thence to the Ile of Man, and after some stay there, in the beginning of August, leauing the sight of his Maiesties Dominions, did betake themselues to the Sea. Though by reason so the latenesse of their setting forth, they had the windes very contrary about the middest of September, they discouered Saint Peters Ilands, and were neere to Cape Bretton, but yet were beaten backe againe by a great storme to New-found-land. And as they passed by the Bay of Placentia, neglecting the occasion to place themselues in some part of my bounds, there as they might haue done, they went in∣to Saint Iohns Harbour, where they concluded to stay that Winter, and sent the ship home for a new supply of such things as were needfull.

Though it might haue discouraged mee much, that they had retired to New-found-land, foreseeing that what they had with them might be wasted, and that it would bee as

chargeable and difficult to furnish them forth from thence, as if they were to goe of new from Scotland, yet rather then they should bee in danger for want of prouision, ma∣king me any way guiltie of their losse, that had aduentu∣red their liues, trusting to my care, I fraughted a shippe of purpose furnished with such things as were required in a Note, which they sent home with their Messenger. This shippe was dispatched by mee from London in the end of March 1623. but shee happened to stay so long at Plimmouth, first, vpon some necessary occasions, and last by contrary winds, it being the eight and twentieth of April, before shee parted from thence, hauing no good windes at all, that they arriued not at Saint Iohns Harbour, till the fift of Iune. At their comming they found the company not fit for a Plantion which had first by an vnexpected cause been deuided in two during the Winter, and in May some doubting of a supply, had engaged themselues to serue Fishermen, by which meanes they gained their main∣tenance, and some meanes beside, so that they could hard∣ly be gathered together againe, and their Minister and Smith (both for Spirituall and Temporall respects, the two most necessary members) were both dead, so that seeing no hope to plant themselues in any good fashion that yeere, ten of the principall persons concluded to go alongst with the ship to New Scotland, to discouer the Countrey, and to make choice of a fit place for a Habitation against the next yeere, considering very well, that they could not doe so much good by staying there with so few a number, as they might doe at their returne, by reporting the truth to their friends, of that which they had seene, whereby a new Co∣lonie might be encouraged to set forth well furnished, and instructed according to that which might bee learned by their experience.

The three and twentieth of Iune, they loosed from Saint Iohns Harbour, and sayled towards New Scotland, where for the space of fourteene dayes, they were by fogges and contrary winds kept backe from spying Land till the eight of Iuly, that they saw the West part of Cape Bretton, and

till the thirteenth day, they sayled alongst the Coast, till they ranne the length of Port de Mutton, where they dis∣couered three very pleasant Harbours, and went ashore in one of them, which after the shippes name, they called Lukes Bay, where they found a great way vp a very plea∣sant Riuer, being three fathom deep at a low water at the entry thereof, & on euery side of the same they did see very delicate Medowes, hauing Roses white and red, growing thereon wtih a kind of wilde Lilly, which had a daintie smel, the next day they resolued (coasting alongst the land) to discouer the next Harbour, which was but two leagues distant from the other, where they found a more pleasant Riuer then the first, being foure fathome deepe at a low water with Medowes on both sides thereof, hauing Roses and Lillies growing thereon as the other had, they found within this Riuer, a very fit place for a Plantation, both in regard that it was naturally apt to be fortified, and that all the ground betweene the two Riuers, was without wood, and very good fat Earth, hauing seuerall sorts of beries growing thereon, as Goose-beries, Straw-beries, Hind-beries, Rasberies, and a kind of red Wine berie, as also some sorts of graine, as Pease, some Eares of Wheate, Barly and Rie growing there wilde; the Pease grow in a∣bundance alongst the Coast, very bigge and good to eate, but did taste of the fitch, this Riuer is called Port Iolly, from whence they coasted alongst to Port Negro, beeing twelue leagues distant, where all the way as they sayled a∣longst, they spied a very pleasant Countrey, hauing grow∣ing euery where such things as were obserued in the two Harbours where they had beene before. They found like∣wise in euery Riuer abundance of Lobsters, Cockles, and o∣ther shel-fishes, and also not onely in the Riuers, but all the Coast alongst, numbers of seuerall sorts of Wild-foule, as Wild-goose, blacke Ducke, Woodcocke, Crane, Heron, Pidgeon, and many other sorts of Fowle which they knew not. They did kill as they sayled alongst the Coast great store of Cod, with seuerall other sorts of great fishes.

The Countrie is full of Woods not very thicke, and the most part Oake, the rest are Firre, Spruce, Birch, with some Sicamores, and Ashes, and many other sorts of Wood which they had not seene before. Hauing disconered this part of the Countrie, in regard of the Voyage their ship was to make to the Straits with fishes, they resolued to coast a∣longst from Lukes Bay to Port de Mutton, beeing foure leagues to the East thereof, where they encountred with a Frenchman, that in a very short time had made a great Voy∣age, for though he had furnished one ship away with a great number of fishes, there were neere so many readie as to load himselfe & others. After they had taken a view of this Port, which to their iudgement they found no waies inferiour to the rest they had seene before, they resolued to retire backe to New-found-land, where their ship was to receiue her loa∣ding of fishes. The 20. of Iuly they loosed from thence, and the seuen and twentieth thereof they arriued at Saint Iohns Harbour, and from thence sailed alongst to the Bay of Con∣ception, where they left the ship, and dispatched themselues home in seuerall ships that belonged to the West part of England.

This is no wonder, that the French beeing so slieghtly planted, did take no deeper roote in America, for they as onely desirous to know the nature and qualitie of the soile, and of things that were likely to grow there, did neuer seeke to haue them in such quantitie as was requisite for their maintenance, affecting more by making a needlesse ostentation, that the World should know they had beene there, then that they did continue still to inhabit there, like them, that were more in loue with glorie then with vertue, then being alwaies subiect to diuisions amongst themselues, it was impossible that they could subsist, which proceeded sometime from emulation or enuie, and at other times from the lazinesse of the disposition of some, who (lothing labor) could bee commanded by none, who would impose more vpon them then was agreeable with the indifferencie of their affections and superficiall endeuours.

The English were free from these mutinies, and wanted not industry enough, but their out of a custome they haue to trauell more for the benefit that doth flow from grasse, then by manuring of the ground for Corne, or otherwise if they were forced so to doe by their Owners at London, who enforcing a speedie returne by their labour, would needs be trusted with furnishing of them victuals, they ap∣plying themselues to Tobacco, and such things as might import a present commoditie, neglecting the time that might haue beene imployed for building, planting and husbandrie, did liue but like hired Seruants, labouring for their Masters, and not like Fathers prouiding for their Fa∣mily and Posteritie, which can neuer bee auoided till the ground be inhabited by them, that being Owners thereof, will trust it with their maintenance, and doe content them∣selues with the delight of that which may giue glorie to them, and profit to their heires.

The Plantations in America doe approch neerest to the puritie of these that (by an industrious diligence) in the in∣fancie of the first age did extend the mutiplying generati∣ons of Mankind, to people the then Desert Earth, for here they may possesse themselues without dispossessing of o∣thers, the Land either wanting Inhabitants, or hauing none that doe appropriate to themselues any peculiar ground, but (in a straggling company) runne like beasts after beasts, seeking no soile, but onely after their prey. And where of old the Danes, Gaules, Gothes, Hunnes, Ʋandals, Longo∣bards, and thereafter Sarazens, Turkes, and Tartarians, did (with an inundation of people) encroach vpon these places of Europe, which were most ciuill, and where the Gospel was best planted, out of an ambitious enuie to draw vnto themselues the glory that any Nation had formerly gained, or out of an exorbitant auarice to swallow vp their sub∣stance, and to vsurpe (if they had power challenging right) any Lands that were better then their own, as the most part did in Greece, Hungary, Spaine, Italy and France. Wee here goe to cause preach the Gospel where it was neuer heard,

and not to subdue but to ciuillize the Sauag ruine could giue to vs neither glory nor benefit, since in place of fame it would breed infamie, and would defraud vs of many able bodies, that hereafter (besides the Christi∣an dutie in sauing their soules) by themselues or by their Posteritie may serue to many good vses, when by our meanes they shall learne lawfull Trades, and industries, the Authors whereof (though preuenting the like Superstition) may acquire no lesse reuerence from them, nor in like case of old Saturne, Bacchus, Ceres and Pallas, by teaching to plant Corne, Wine, and Oyle, did get from the credulous ignorance of them with whom they communicated their knowledge.

When I doe consider with myselfe what things are ne∣cessarie for a Plantation, I cannot but be confident that my owne Countreymen are as fit for such a purpose as any men in the world, hauing daring mindes that vpon any pro∣bable appearances doe despise danger, and bodies able to indure as much as the height of their minds can vndertake, naturally louing to make vse of their owne ground, and not trusting to traffique. Then Scotland by reason of her populousnesse being constrained to disburden her selfe (like the painfull Bees) did euery yeere send forth swarmes whereof great numbers did haunt Pole with the most ex∣treme kinde of drudgeric (if not dying vnder the burden) scraping a few crummes together, till now of late that they were compelled, abandoning their ordinary calling, to be∣take themselues to the warres against the Russians, Turks, or Swedens, as the Polonians were pleased to employ thē, others of the better sort being bred in France, in regard of the an∣cient league, did finde the meanes to force out some small fortunes there, till of late that the French though not alto∣gether violating, yet not valuing (as heretofore) that friend∣ship which was so religiously obserued by their predeces∣sours, and with so much danger and losse deserued by ours, haue altered the estate of the Guards, and doe derogate frō our former liberties, which this King now raigning, we

hope, will restore to the first integritie. The necessities of Ireland are neere supplied, and that great current which did transport so many of our people is worne drie. The Lowe Countries haue spent many of our men, but haue en∣riched few, and (though raising their flight with such bor∣rowed feathers, till they were checked by a present danger) did too much vilipend these fauourable Springs by which their weaknesse was chiefly refreshed: But howsoeuer some particular men might prosper vnder a forraine Prince, all that aduenture so, doe either perish by the way, or if they attaine vnto any fortune, doe lose the same by some colour that strict lawes vrged against a stanger can easily affoord, or else naturalizing themselues where they are, they must disclaime their King and Countrey, to which by time (the obiect of their affections altered) being bound to haue a care of that part where there posteritie must liue, they turne euery way strangers, which necessitie imposed vpon them to take this course, and inconuencies following thereup∣on, may be preuented by this new Plantation. And where the Scottish Merchants before had no trade but by transpor∣ting Commodities that might haue beene imployed at home, and oftentimes monie, to bring backe Wine from France, and Pitch, Tarre, and Timber from the Easter Seas. Now only by exporting of men, Corne, and Cattle, they may within a little time be able to furnish back in exchange these things before named. As likewise a great benefit of fishes, Furres, Timber and Metals, drawing forth our peo∣ple to forreine Traffique, wherewith they neuer haue bin accustomed before, and that to the great increase of the Customes, helping hereby to enrich that ancient King∣dome, which of all the rest hath onely lost by his Maiesties greatnesse, being hereby not onely defrauded of his owne presence, and of the comfort that his countenance did con∣tinually affoord, but likewise of many Commodities arising to any Countrie where a Court is Resident, as the vniuer∣sall pouertie thereof (hauing few rich vnlesse it bee some

Iudges and their Clerkes) by a common complaint doth too sensibly testifie.

I haue neuer remembred any thing with more admirati∣on then America, considering how it hath pleased the Lord to locke it vp so long amidst the depths, concealing it from the curiositie of the Ancients, that it might be discouered in a fit time for their posteritie, they were so farre of old from apprehending it by any reach of reason, that the most lear∣ned men (as they thought) by infallible grounds, in regard of the degrees of the Heauen, did hold that these Zones could not be inhabited, which now are knowne to include the most pleasant parts in the Word. This neuer came to the knowledge of any Hebrew, Greeke, or Roman, who had the most able mindes to haue found out such a myste∣ry: and howsoeuer some would glose vpon that Fable of Platoes Atlantick Iland, I haue neuer obserued any thing a∣mongst the Ancient Writers tending to such a purpose, if it be not these lines of Seneca the Tragedian, whereby hee might (if not with a prophetick, yet with a poetick rap∣ture) deliuer that which he had a mind to make the poste∣ritie expect, and was in possibilitie to happen.

Ʋenient annis— Secula seris, quibus occanus Vincula rerum laxet, & ingens Pateat tellus, Tiphisque nouos Detegat orbes; nec fit terris Ʋltima Thule.

And it is a thing not yet comprehended by the course of naturall reason, how these parts of the World came first to be peopled: We must grant (according to the grounds of Diuinitie) their people to be descended from Noah, and it is not long since that (the Loadstone being found out) the best Saylers (scorning as in former times to be only coasters) haue brought the Art of Nauigation to that perfection, that they durst resolutely aduenture to search the most remote

parts in the Ocean, and if any had gone thither of purpose to inhabite, they would haue carried with them the most vse full kindes of tame Cattle, such as Horses, Cowes, and Sheepe, whereof neuer any was found in these parts, till they were transported thither of late yeeres; but onely such wild beasts as of themselues might haue wandred any where through vast Forrests, and Deserts: so that I doe thinke there must bee some narrow passage vpon the East, towards Terra Australis Incognita, not yet discouered, from whence people by time might haue come (crossing the Straits of Magelane) to inhabite Brasile, Chile, and Peru, or rather I should thinke that there were some Continent, or Narrow Sea towardes the North, about the Straits of Anien, from whence the first Inhabitants in America might haue come; because the wild beasts that are there are creatures most peculiar to the North, such as Elkes, Beares, and Beauers, which are knowne to bee ordinary with the Russians, and Tartarians; and I am the more con∣firmed in this opinion, when I remember of the Mountains of Ice that come floting euery Spring alongst the Coast of New-found-Land, which (as it is likely) may dissolue from some Sea that hath beene frozen during the Winter time, ouer which people, and wild beasts might haue commodi∣tie to passe; but this is a matter that can hardly bee deter∣mined by demonstration or reason, therefore (all men for∣ming that which they know not, according to the square of their owne conceits.) Wee must leaue this to the vnli∣mited libertie of the imagination of man.

But the thing most wonderfull of all is this, though now it bee cleerely discouered, that so few are willing to make vse therof; This doth chiefly proceed from want of know∣ledge, few being willing to aduenture vpon that where∣with they are not acquainted by their owne experience, and yet those who haue not made triall themselues, if they will trust others, may bee abundantly satisfied by the re∣ports of a number, who to Plant and Traffique doe yeerely

haunt these parts. If the true estate of that which might bee done at this time by the ioyning of some reasonable company together were rightly vnderstood, then so many would not liue at home as they do, losing their time, where they can make no benefit, and burdenable to them to whom they are not vsefull, rather admitted, then welcom∣med, the one thinking that their seruice should deserue a reward, and the other that their maintenance is an vnne∣cessary charge, neither gaining, and both discontented: then would not so many aduenture their liues for the de∣fence of strangers, whereby they scarce can acquire that which doth defray their owne charges, and howsoeuer the hope of Honour may flatter a generous spirit, there is no great appearance by this meanes to prouide for a Family, or for a Posteritie. And if we rightly consider the benefit that may arise by this enterprise abroad, it is not onely able to afford a sufficient meanes for their maintenance, who can∣not conueniently liue at home, by disburdening the Countrey of them, but it is able to enable them to deserue of their Countrey, by bringing vnto it both Honour and Profit.

Where was euer Ambition baited with greater hopes then here, or where euer had Vertue so large a field to reape the fruites of Glory, since any man, who doth goe thither of good qualitie, able at first to transport a hundred persons with him furnished with things necessary, shall haue as much Bounds as may serue for a great Man, where∣vpon hee may build a Towne of his owne, giuing it what forme or name hee will, and being the first Founder of a new estate, which a pleasing industry may quickly bring ••o a perfection, may leaue a faire inheritance to his poste∣ritie, who shall claime vnto him as the Author of their Nobilitie there, rather then to any of his Ancestours that had preceded him, though neuer so nobly borne elswhere, and if the vastenesse of their hopes cannot bee bounded within their first limits, as soone as they haue strengthned

themselues for such a designe, either by Sea or by Land, (in regard of the large Countries next adiacent hereunto) there doth alwaies rest a faire possibilitie of a further encrease, ei∣ther for them, or for their successours; and so euery one of inferiour sort may expect proportionably according to his aduenture: The Merchans that are giuen to trade, where can they haue a fairer ground for gaine then here; and that besides that which may bee expected from so fertile a Land by industry or husbandry hereafter, in present commodi∣ties, such as Cod fishes and Herring in the Seas, Salmonds in the Riuers, Furres, Pype-staues, Pot-ashes, and all that may arise from the plentie of good Wood, Mineralls, and other things though not knowne to strangers that onely coast a∣longst the Lands, that may bee discouered hereafter by them that are to inhabite the Bounds.

Here those that are so disposed, without making a Mo∣nasticall retreate (free from a multitude of troubles) may inioy the pleasures of contemplation, being solitary when they will, and yet accompanied when they please, and that not with such company as (pressed by importunitie) they must discontentedly admit, but onely by them of whom they haue made choice, and whom they haue carried with them, with whom (as partners of their trauells) by mu∣tuall discourses they may remember their former dangers, and communicate their present ioyes: heere are all sorts of obiects to satisfie the varietie of desires. I might speake of the sport that may bee had by Hunting, H••wking, Fishing, and Fowling, where all these creatures haue had so long a time for increase, without being destroyed or frighted, as likewise of the great contentment that must come by daily discoueries of new Fieldes and Riuers, with the diuersitie of things not seene before that may happen to bee found in them: but I would rather haue all at first to thinke of the paines they must indure, in bringing of so notable a Worke to perfection, since no good thing can be had with ease, and all the sonnes of men are borne to la∣bour.

But leauing these worldly respects, the greatest incouragement of all for any true Christian is this, that heere is a large way for aduancing the Gospel of Iesus Christ, to whom Churches may bee builded in places where his Name was neuer knowne; and if the Saints of Heauen reioyce at the conuersion of a Sinner, what exceeding ioy would it bee to them to see many thou∣sands of Sauage people (who doe now liue like brute beasts) conue••ted vnto God, and I wish (leauing these dreames of Honour and Profit, which doe intoxicate the braines, and impoyson the minde with transitory pleasures) that this might bee our chiefe end to be∣gin a new life, seruing God more sincerely then before, to whom we may draw more neere, by retyring our selues fur∣ther from hence.

As I would haue no man that hath a mind for this course, to abuse his iudgement, by trusting too much to the ferti∣litie of the bounds where he is to goe, and too little to his owne prouidence, and industrie, whereby he may be made to neglect the preparing himmselfe for this Voyage after such a manner as is requisite, So I altogether disl••ke them that possessed with the preposterous apprehensions of feare (like the lazie man of whome Salomon speaketh, that pretending difficulties to preuent trauell, would say there was a Lion in the way) will needs imagine the worst that is in possibilitie to happen: for such a man (too inge∣niously subtill in coniecturing danger) doth both by pre∣iudicated opinions disable himselfe, and discourage them, who not being duely informed, are confirmed by the con∣fidence of other vndertakers, that professe to haue know∣ledge, there is no man at home where he was borne, so free from the accidents of fortune who may not quickly by a publike, or by a priuate calamitie be brought in some mea∣sure to suffer, and much rather should wee arme our selues with a high resolution against all inconuencies that can occurre in such a forraine enterprise (being circumspectly

prouident, but not cōfounded with a deiecting feare) where the greatnesse of so well grounded hopes for vs and for our Posteritie should make vs (hoping for pleasure) to disgest any present paine, with a courage greater then can bee bra∣ued by any apprehended trouble. And because the Lord in such eminent Exploits doth commonly glorifie himselfe by a few number, I wish that all such whose hearts doe mis∣giue them portending any disaster (like them of Gideons troupes that bowed downe like beasts to the water) should retire in time, ere the contagiousnesse of their infirmitie come to infect them that are more soundly disposed. There is no iust cause for a reasonable man to feare any worldly thing, but onely disgrace and want of necessary maynte∣nance: A man can hardly fall in the first here, since an honourable intention what euer the successe prooue must acquire prayse, and the other by ordinary meanes, is easie to be auoyded, but I am so farre from painting out a suppo∣sed facilitie to snare weake minds, that I would haue none (with whom it is not fit to communicate more then they be capeable of) to imbarke in this busines, but only such as do resolue against the worst, for I professe as Cato did, when he was to enter the Deserts of Arabia.

—Neque enim mihi fallere quenquam Est animus, tectoque metu perducere vulgus. Hi mihi sint comites, quos ipsa pericula ducent, Qui me teste, pati, vel quae tristissima, pulchrum, Romanumque putant; at qui sponsore salutis Miles eget, capiturque animae dulcedine, vadat Ad Dominum meliore via.—

And last should not these memorable Exploits of late performed in the East and West Indies by the Flemmings, enflame vs with a generous ardour to equall, or rather to exceede them, whose penuritie of people (euen at home) must bee supplyed by the superfluitie of ours: They haue

not onely in the East Indies by seuerall Habitations appro∣priated large Territories to themselues, but likewise to the great preiudice of their Neighbours, improouing their owne profit, haue engrossed the generall Commerce by consequence depending thereupon. And if they seate themselues (as it is likely they will doe) in Brasill, pro∣uidently prosecuting the good beginning that they haue gotten by sparing people of their owne, or by intere∣sting Strangers whom they dare trust for founding of a suf∣ficient Colonie, that being strong enough to defend and command the Inhabitants. (Securely exacting a due obe∣dience) may enable them for greater matters; then con∣fining with the very Springs whence the streames flow that entertayne the power of their enemies (exhausting their substance both by Sea and Land) they haue a maruellous faire occasion offered to aduance themselues by depres∣sing of the opposed partie whose prosperous and desired successe (whilest the adding to one doth derogate from another) if not emulated in time, will bee enuied here∣after.

I know that many of my Nation if they had beene as willing as they are able had beene more fit then I am for this purpose, but yet it hath oftentimes pleased God to doe the greatest matters by the meanest Instruments. And as no one man could accomplish such a Worke by his owne priuate fortunes, so if it shall please his Maiestie (as he hath euer beene disposed for the furthering of all good Works more for the benefit of his Subiects, then for his owne par∣ticular) to giue his helpe accustomed for matters of lesse moment hereunto, making it appeare to be a Worke of his own, that others of his subiects may be induced to cōcurre in such a common cause, no man could haue had my charge that with more affection and sinceritie should haue vsed his endeuours for discharging of the same, but I must trust to be supplyed by some publike helps, such as hath beene had in other parts, for the like cause whereunto, as I doubt not, but

many will be willing out of the noblenesse of their disposi∣tion, for the aduancing of so worthy a Worke, So I hope will some others, the rather out of their priuate respect to me, who shall continue as I haue heretofore done, both to doe and write in so farre, as so meane an abilitie as mine may reach, what (I conceiue) may proue for the credit or benefit of my Nation, to whom I wish all hap∣pinesse.

FINIS.