The Embassy of Sir Thomas Roe to the Court of the Great Mogul 16.1

16.1

26 April, 1616. You may thinck I haue forgotten to write, so teadious vncertaintyes having shutt up all occasion. I was willing to effect somwhat, and by the passadge therof to make iudgment of our estimation here and what wee might discreetly hope for in tymes to Come, as well in respect of our reception, as of our meanes to continew this trade from England; soe that nowe I will giue you particular answers to all the parts of your lettres, as also some generall aduises and obseruations of myne owne The Confinuinge of this trade consists principally on two Poynts: our good reception and priueledges to be obteyned and performed to vs here: and the vent of our owne comodityes. Without the one, wee cannot abyde with honor; without the other wee will not, to no proffitt. For our reception and priuiledges they stand on doubtfull tearmes and will runne the chaunce of fortune. For the King respectes vs very well and is ready to grant all reasonable demandes; but this affection is forced and not naturall, and therfore noe permanent nor assured ground to build on. The Prince dislikes vs, and though he fauour no Christian, yet the Portugall most, and hath pleaded for him (vnder pretence of more profitt to his Port, disdainfully asking what wee bring, but Cloth and Kniues). Now this disposition is Naturall, like to Continew and in tyme vpon all aduantages to woorke or weare out his fathers better opinione, which is att best but feare and temporising;