Storia do Mogor 344.3.1

344.3.1

In this village were several quarries of very fine stone, excellent for paving, road-making, and similar purposes. The Jesuits attempted in various ways to get possession of these, but Gonzalves would never consent to part with them. Finally, they made a novel and most curious attempt. One night without any warning they brought several houses of straw, made ready beforehand for this purpose, and erected them among the palm-trees round the said village. They were at once occupied by men, women, and children with dogs, cats, cocks, hens, bringing their pots and pans, their goods and chattels. On the following morning George Gonzalves was thrown into wonder and amazement on beholding this novel and unexpected sight. He began at once to question these people to find out by whose orders they had come to take up their quarters there. They answered that they were the tenants of the Jesuit fathers, and had lived in the place for many years. George Gonzalves perceived that this was a stratagem of the fathers in order to render themselves masters of his property. He collected his men, and attempted to expel the intruders. But the Jesuits appeared with their servants, and after some struggling Gonzalves was forced to retreat.