Storia do Mogor 346.2.2

346.2.2

Yet the Dutch thought it wise to test the force of this threat by demanding as a condition precedent to any discussion that the prize Goude Vogel Phenix, with its crew and cargo intact, should be restored. This proposal acted on our opponents like a thunderbolt.' They were much astonished at such an incredible demand, and declined to listen to any further mention of it. They closed the interview by saying that all they could do was to submit the point for their sovereign's decision. The Dutch officials now found themselves in difficulty and perplexity. They knew their superiors would never ratify any such agreement, yet if they did not enter into it they would be deported to Europe. They requested leave to withdraw, and take some time for reflection. The points now discussed by them among themselves were four: First, had their company any forces in sight sufficient to attack the enemy and effect their release? This was decided in the negative; and as the monsoon was over, future arrivals could with difficulty be brought as far as the roadstead of Pondicherry. Secondly, a Dutch vessel, the Pappensburg, was daily expected from Japan, and would most assuredly be captured as the Goude Vogel Phenix had been. Thirdly, the presence of Commissary Phoosen on the Choromandal coast was absolutely necessary. Fourthly, the French possessed a fast ship, Le Petit Marchand, which could prevent all traffic by sea between the Dutch factories.