Storia do Mogor 137.4

137.4

The viceroy took up the proposal and hired a strong fleet of good ships and frigates for this service. But he let no one know what he meant to do ; and from this secrecy the Dutch dreaded some sudden blow at them, as they could not find out what such preparations were meant for. By the distribution of copious bribes in all directions they won over several of the officers. The viceroy, being desirous of equipping his ships well, ordered the embarkation by force of every valid man, compelled the better class of the Portuguese from the northern parts to come to Goa, and directed that no one should be allowed to quit the place. Thus, when the ships were well fitted out, he made over sealed instructions to the captains, with the order not to open them until arrival at a certain latitude. Thus the fleet set sail without anyone knowing its destination.