Storia do Mogor 346.1.6

346.1.6

But almost from that moment the French began to tell Phoosen that he must agree to a cessation of hostilities in India. The affair was conducted by Du Dresnay through one of the Dutchmen, Johan de Wolf, who knew French. They dwelt on the inconveniences to both nations from hostilities in India, and said that ratification and approval of the sovereigns on both sides could easily be obtained. Phoosen sent back word that he was in no way empowered to treat, but on reaching Negapatam he would consult with the Governor and Council there. Du Dresnay hinted that this refusal would not help on the release of the prisoners. De Wolf said the two things had not the remotest connection. Meanwhile the Dutch learnt from Negapatam that everybody said that Ariahpa, an interpreter, was very busy trying to thwart the efforts of the Dutch envoys. On their side they employed a native called Letje to find out what was going on. Through him they learnt that a leading merchant of Pondicherry, called Cammer Appa Chetty, was using influence against them with Governor Martin, and they were told at second or third hand that this man had offered Governor Martin 8,000 or 9,000 pagodas if the Dutch prisoners were sent to France, a proposal which Martin indignantly refused.