Storia do Mogor 13.2.3

13.2.3

1700-1703. In 1700 Sir William Norris and Consul John Pitt, who had come out in the interests of the newly-founded rival English company, made overtures to Manucci to join the first-named as interpreter. Manucci declined on the score of age and blindness, but really out of a desire not to offend Governor Pitt. In O.C., No. 6737 (Masulipatam general letter of September 19, 1699), we have an intimation that a letter was awaited from 'Senr Manuchii,' which was delayed by his absence at Pondicherry, the French settlement, on some business he was transacting for them (the French). A translation of Manucci's answer to John Pitt is to be found at the India Office (O.C., vol. lxvi., Part I., No. 6790), and, as Sir Henry Yule does not give it, I insert it in full. 'MOST ILLUSTRIOUS SR. MR. PITT, 'I have received the honour of 3 letters, which you have done me the Favour of writing to me, and am infinitely obliged to you, for all the Goodness you show therein ; and (as I should be alwayes gladd to serve your Honr.) I would doe it with all my heart, but finding my Selfe Old and Infirme, I am not in a Condition to undertake what You desire of me ; If I enjoyed my former health and Strength, it would be a great honour to me, to find soe favourable an opportunity of Serving, his Majesty, his Excellency, and the Noble Company, but my Infirmity and Blindness will not permit me.