The Embassy of Sir Thomas Roe to the Court of the Great Mogul 19.4.5

19.4.5

Parts, and some hould and retrayt, both for the keeping in awe of those with whom they traded, and for a security for themselues from all violence or vnconstancy, which Course they had held in all parts to the South and East where they had any recourse, building forts for defence of themselves, wherby by little and little they became masters of the Port, wherof at Mesolapatan was a Neighbouring example : But I thought if they Came as men of warr, they would not attempt any thing on this Coast, especially in presence of our fleete, which wee expected as soone as they arriue, nor in any place where wee had residence, for reuerence to his Maiestie the king of England, to whom they did owe eauen that liberty wherby they molested others : But rather they would prosecute their Mortall quarrell against the Portugalls, eyther at Damon, Chaul, or perhapes at the head, Goa itself, for that if they came with such intent, they would doe somwhat woorthy their labour. The king was somewhat troubled at my relation ; but, as if all things were to little to concerne such mightines, it passed away without any resolution. August 11.