[Pramāṇa](https://indike.org/pramana/) › [Indian literature](https://indike.org/pramana/in) › [Dark Ages](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages) › [Travellers (1500–1858)](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel) › [The Embassy of Sir Thomas Roe to the Court of the Great Mogul](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy) › [The Embassy of Sir Thomas Roe (Foster)](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster) › 19 # The Embassy of Sir Thomas Roe to the Court of the Great Mogul 19: To Sultan Caronne. (Addl. MS. 6115, f. 96.) 1st Maye, 1616. The Embassy of Sir Thomas Roe (Foster) 19 - **Language:** English ## Contents - [19.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.1) — 8 parts - [19.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.2) — 9 parts - [19.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.3) — 7 parts - [19.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.4) — 8 parts - [19.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.5) — 8 parts - [19.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.6) — 7 parts - [19.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.7) — 7 parts - [19.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.8) — 7 parts - [19.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.9) — 4 parts ### To Sultan Caronne. (Addl. MS. 6115, f. 96.) 1st Maye, 1616. ### [19.1.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.1.1) Most Royall Prince, I Cannot but confesse and acknowledge the great Justice you haue done our Nation in the debts and extortions of Zulpheckcarcon, wherof I will speedily aduise my lord the most mighty King of England, that his Maiestie may render your Highnes condigne thanckes and that your fame and renowne may be knowne in all parts. But I cannot but greeue when I consider that your highnes good opinion and grace toward vs is auerted by some misfortune or misinformation, which by many Cercumstances is manifested to mee, Principally in that fauour your highnes hath declared to the Portugall, our enemyes. Butt if your highnes were pleased to regard the differance betweene our proceedings and theires, that wee only desire open trade for all Nations, to the enriching of your highnes kingdomes and the advancing of your Customes, wheras they haue euer sought to keepe in subjection your subiects, suffering none to trafique but them selues and exacting dutyes for licence to passe vpon your seas, contrary to all honor and Justice, calling their King in Europe King of India. In proofe wherof our readines to embrace Peace & their obstinacy in yt is sufficient wittnes; though theyr force is no way terrible to vs, that are so poowrfull in shipping that all Europe is not able to equall his Majestic therin. ### [19.1.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.1.2) And if your highnes suppose that the Portugall hath or would bring eyther more raretyes or more profitt to your port, I dare affirme your highnes hath receiued wrong enformation. First, for curious and rare toyes, we haue better meanes to furnish your highnes then any other, our kingdome abounding with all arts and our shipping trading into all the world, wherby there is nothing vnder the sunne which wee are not able to bring, if we knew your highnes pleasure, what you did most affect; wherof whensoeuer you shall please to giue a writing, you shall haue experience of our readines to doe you seruice. Secondly, for profitt, our kingdome is Naturally the most fructfull in Europe and the most abundant in all sorts of armes, cloth, and whatsoeuer is necessary for mans vse; besides which, your Highnes I suppose knowes not wee yeerly bring into your Port in ready mony 50,000 Rialls of Eight, for which wee only carry away Callicoes and Indicoes, to the enriching of your highnes kingdomes with siluer. ### [19.1.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.1.3) And that your highnes may better perceiue what profitt doth arise by our trade at Suratt, and that hereafter we may not bee vexed by officers at the Alfandica, wherby we shalbe enforced to trouble your highnes with daylie Complaynts, wee are desierous to rent our Customes of your highnes, both in and out, and will yearly pay your highnes at one payment 12,000 Rupies for our sayd Customes, So that your highnes wilbe pleased to dischardge vs of all other duties and troubles; which I suppose is a farr greater summe then euer your officers made you any account. And in all mattres wherin your Highnes shall Command, you shall fynd our Nation most ready to obey you, and myselfe in particular will not omitt all occasion to doe you seruice, wherin I doubt not I could some wayes giue your highnes content, if I had oportunitye to speake with you. Your Highnes Noble Nature will excuse my bouldnes, and that I wayte not on you myselfe, for that for want of language I could not so well expresse my desires, as by writing. The great Creator of Heauen and earth blesse you and multiply on your head all felicitye and Honor. To doe you seruice, Tho. Roe the English Ambassador. At night I went to the Durbarr to visitt the king. So soone as I came in hee sent Asaph chan to mee: that hee heard I had in my house an excellent Paynter, and desiered hee might see some of his worke. ### [19.1.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.1.4) I replyed, according to truth, that ther was none but a young man, a Merchant, that for his exercise did with a pen draw some figures, but very meanly, far from the Arte of painting. The king replyed that I should not feare that hee would take any man from mee by force: that hee would neyther doe me Injurie nor suffer any other; and prayed that hee might see that man and his woorke, whatsoeuer it was. I replied I had no such doubte of his Maiestie, and for his satisfaction I would bring him to the Guzellchan with such toyes as hee had, which perhaps was an Eliphant, or a deare, or such like in paper. At this answere the king bowed himselfe; and returnd that if I desiered an Eliphant or the figure or any other thing in his Cuntrie, I should not buy it nor seeke any other way but to him: that whatsoeuer I had a minde too, hee would giue mee: and that I should freely speake to him, for he was my frend. I made a reuerence and answered that I humblie thancked his Maiestie: Eliphantes were of no use to mee, neyther was it the Custome of my Nation, especially of my place, to aske anything: if his Maiestie gaue mee but the woorth of a rupy I would receiue it and esteeme it as a marke of his fauour. ### [19.1.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.1.5) He replyed that hee knewe not what I desiered: that ther were some things in his Countrie rare in myne, and that I should not make daynty to speake to him, for hee would giue mee such things as should bee most wellcome: and that I should bee Cherfull, for that hee was a frend to our Nation and to mee, and would protect vs from any Injurye; but desiered that I would that night come to the Guzellchan with the youth that Paynted and his Picktures. So Asaph chan wishd me to send home to fetch him to his house, whither if I would goe and stay with him vntill the king Came abroad I should bee veary wellcome, which I promised. I neuer receiued so much grace and fauour from the King as at this tyme, which all men tooke notice off, and accordingly altered their fashions toward mee. Especially it hapned well that the Iesuite was made interpreter of all this by the kings appoyntment. When the king rose, I went to Asaph Chans house (hauing sent for Master Hewes, the supposed Paynter), Asaph chan beeing gone somwhat before. I found him satt on a poore Tarras in the ayre on a sheete with other great men. His Porters stayed mee at the doore at my entrance; so that as soone as I came to him I said I was come according to his request and did often desire to visitt him, but his seruants stopped me as if I were a sutor: I entreated him to reforme it, for that it was a discurtesye to one of my place. ### [19.1.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.1.6) He Called his steward and Master Porter, and Commanded them that if I came my selfe no man should presume to stay mee but lett me passe into him, and that all my seruants at all tymes should bee brought into a roome to sitt downe and that his house should euer bee free for them. So I satt, and for Complement acknowledged the fauour the king had done mee so publiquely to proceed from good reports made by him of me and our Nation, which wee would with all due respect endeauour to requite. He replied he was euer my frend in his particular, but that the kings good opinion and fauour to mee proceeded from his owne good disposition. I answered: seeing he was so modest not to take it vpon him and so refuse the thanckes, yet I desiered him that hee would vse this oportunitye and season of his Maiesties gratiousnes to mooue at night the sealing of our Priuiledges, for that our shipes were ready to arriue, and if they found no alteration they would land no goodes, and I should bee reputed very Negligent in my dutie, to my vtter disgrace and ruine in my Masters fauour, who would not lay the fault on any other nor beeleue any excuse, having receiued such assurance of loue from the Great Mogull by his last lettres; and that I had a Pickture of a frend of myne that I esteemed very much, and was for Curiositye rare, which I would giue his Maiestie as a present, seeing hee so much affected that art; assuring myselfe he neuer saw any equall to it, neyther was any thing more esteemed of mee. ### [19.1.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.1.7) He answered it was not good to Moue yt publiquely, it might bring forth opposition and dispute: but that I should relye on him: hee would see them sealed speedely: that the kings consent was already passd by referrence to him: but for the Picture he desird I would send for yt presently, that hee might see it, and present it to the king (so nothing in this kynd once named is lett slipd, and I was engaged to my guift). I sent for yt and astonishd him, hee seeming to take extreame content, eauen to admiration; assuring mee it would bee the most welcome guift I euer presented. Suddenly hee rose (the king beeing come out) and desiered me to staye there: that hee would goe to the king and send for mee, leauing mee musique and Company. Within halfe an hower two of the kings seruants came for mee; and after some speech with Master Hewes, wherin hee was Satisfied, Asaph chan asked mee for my little Picture and presented it to the King. He tooke extreame Content, showeing it to euerie man neare him; at last sent for his Cheefe Paynter, demanding his opinion. The foole answered he could make as good. Wherat the king turned to mee, saying: my man sayth he can do the like and as well as this: what say yow? I replyed: I knew the Contrarie. But if hee doe, said he, what will you say? I answered: I would giue 10,000 rupies for such a Coppy of his hand, for I knowe non in Europe but the same master can performe it. ### [19.1.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.1.8) Nay, said the king, I will call 4 Paynters, my Cheefe woorke men, and what will you giue mee if they make one so like, that you shall not knowe your owne? I replyed: I had nothing of valewe to giue his Maiestie, but at the arriuall of the shipes I would giue the best rarety I could procure. He answered: that was long: but what wager would I lay in the meantyme? I replyed: I knew not what to offer in wager to so great a Prince, nor became it me to name it; but if his Maiestie were pleasd I would lay any in my Power to pay. Why, said hee, if yow will not lay with mee, lay with the Paynter. I answered: no. Sir, as I am vnfitt with your Maiestie, so your Paynter is no equall match for mee: but I will wager with Asaph chan or Abdalazan or any of your lordes. So he Commanded Asaph chan, who offered 5,000 rupies, I replyed I was Content, but mony was no honourable bett, especially among frendes: but I would lay a good horse. Soe the match was agreed on; but Asaph chan recanted in Priuat. ### [19.2.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.2.1) After, the king fell to drincking of our Allegant, giuinge tasts to diuers, and then sent for a full bottle, and drincking one Cup sent it to mee: that it beegan to sower soe fast it would be spoyld before hee Could drincke all, and that I had none. So hee turned to sleepe ; the Candles were poppd out, and I groppd my way out of doores. This day a gentellwoeman of Normalls was taken in the kings house in some action with an Eunuch. Another Capon that loued her kylld him. The Poore Woeman was sett up to the Arme pitts in the Earth hard ramed, her feete tyde to a stake, to abyde 3 dayes and 2 nights without any sustenance, her head and armes bare, exposed to the sunns violence : if shee died not in that tyme she should bee pardoned. The Eunuch was Condemned to the Eliphantes. This damsell yeelded in Pearle, Jewelles, and ready mony 160,000 rupias. July 14. — I sent Asaph Chan a bottle of wyne, putting him in mynd to dispatch the sealing of our Priuiledges. Hee Called to his Secretarie for them and promised to send them seald with expedition. ### [19.2.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.2.2) July 15. — I sent to Zulpheckcarcon for mony. He desiered that I would forbeare 6 dayes ; for that his mony and the Princes was ready, but for som goodes deliuered to others there was difference : that hee had sent to Suratt for testemony against such as denyed and wee should be cleared with all togither. I gaue order to Master Fettiplace to returne that I was Content to forbeare tenn dayes for mony : but that I desiered he would firme the agreement in generall with his hand and seale, that I might be secure from any new cauelles ; which hee promised to doe the next day. July 16. — I Could not gett the brokar to goe, by whose Negligence all our busines was deferrd and delayd. I had not power to dismisse him, though hee did more hinder vs then all other letts togither ; neyther had the Merchanntes any will, for I mooued it often. So that I can doe no more. He offereth his bill for the mony, and that is a warrant for the Princes part, if they will fetch it ; if not, I am blamelesse. July 18. — I went to the Durbar to visitt the king, but could not yet gett a dispatch of my demandes. ### [19.2.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.2.3) July 19. — I sent to Socoralla for the Princes answer to my lettre concerning the farme of Coustomes. Hee said that it was referrd to Asaph chan and him : that they must meete and Conferr about yt and then I should receiue yt. At euening I sent to Asaph chan, desiering him to fauour my request for renting the Princes dues at Suratt, It beeing referrd to him and Socorolla, in which by a speedie answer hee should doe mee Curtesie, that I might tymely aduise therof to Suratt. He promised that hee would that night Consult about yt and giue me all assistance, and for my other busines in his hand it should bee ready in two dayes. Thus I was fedd with hopes and delayes to no effect. ### [19.2.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.2.4) July 22. — I receiued lettres from Bramport in answer of those to Mahobet chan, who at first granted my desier, making his firmaen to Baroch most effectuall, to receiue our Nation and to give them a house near the Gouernor : strictly Commanding no man to molest them by sea or land, nor to take any custome of them or any way trouble them vnder colour therof : finally that they might buy, sell, and transport any Comoditye at their pleasure without any molestation : Concluding that they should expect to heare no other from him and therefore they should be carefull in execution. I receiued with yt a lettre from himselfe (which was more Ciuilitye then all the Indyes yeelded mee) full of Curtesye and humanitie and great respect, protesting his desier to giue me Content and that what I had demanded I should make no doubt of performance: and if I had any other occasion to vse him, hee desiered me to write and it should bee performed. ### [19.2.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.2.5) The Coppies are woorthy the seeing for the rareness of the Phrase: the firmaen I caused to be sent to Suratt. So that Baroch is prouided for a good retraite from the Princes Iniuryes, and the Custom giuen, wherby 1,500li. per annum wilbe saued, besides all manner of searches and extortions. For the performance of this no man maketh any doubt, for that all men Confesse that hee neither Careth for the Prince, and soe feareth not, nor needeth any man, beeing the only beloued man of the king, and second person in his dominions, and in all his life soe liberall of his pursse and honorable of his woord that hee hath engrossed good reports from all others. And Concerning Custome, the king takes none; the Gouernors make it their proffitt; which hee professeth to scorne that hee should abuse the liberty of the kinges Ports. July 23. — I wrote to Mahobet chan complements and thanckes, and sent away lettres to Mesolapatan concerning a factory at Bengala. At night I solicited Asaph chan for my Articles. His answere was short: tary a whyle; which I vnderstand not. July 25. — I sent to Zulpheckcarcon at the Princes. He desiered the Merchanntes to come to his house and hee would dispatch them. July 26. — I sollicited Sacarolla for the Princes answer. He replied that Asaph chan and hee had not mett, and that I must moue him to yt, for that else it would bee forgotten. July 28. ### [19.2.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.2.6) — I went to the Durbar to visitt the king, who referrd me to Asaph chan, with whome I went home and with all earnestnes pressed the dispatch of my demandes and that hee would meete Sacarolla about the farme of our Customes. He answered me with many Complements of frendship and loue, but delayed mee with sentences and Morality : that kings were to be attended, and that things must come from them of their owne mynde, without importunitye : that patience would bring all to passe. I answered I had worne out all my store with so tedious delayes, and that, if I had not depended on his promise, I would haue some way at least procured a refusall and so departed : but that I hoped he would effect yt, for that the king my Master would impute the faulte to my negligence and I durst hardly see his face without a better account of that Committed to mee. He replied I must not vse such speeches, for the king could not blame me for anything out of my Power : that hee knewe the myndes of kings were in Godes handes only, and no man could rule them but himself : that hee spake not this with any purpose that I should not haue them, but to giue me content, least I should with impatience mistake his good meaning and affection towardes mee. I answered I was free from Ielousy of him, but if I were more importunate now, the Comming of the shipes enforced mee : that I was resolued noe goodes should be landed vntill I had some better assurance of our vsage. ### [19.2.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.2.7) Hee said all was past and that these Articles I should haue, but that the kingdome of Suratt was wholie in the Princes Power : the king would doe nothing to preiudice his authority : That I should visitt the Prince and giue him a Present, and make frendes among his seruants, for from him I must expect my best reamedy and our quiett residence. I answered I had no presents vntill their arriuall : that all other means I vsed to procure the fauour of the Prince, and the assistance of those neare him, but it became not mee to seeke to every body in that which was a free demand of leauge betweene Princes, which I thought they should as readily accept as the king of England should offer yt Concerning the farme of Customes hee promised to send for Socorolla and giue me answere. Many faire wordes were cast away on both Parts, and so I returned only with New promises. July 31. — I went to visitt the Prince and, because I would haue occasion to speake, as well as to follow Asaph Chans aduise, I presented him a very delicate Piece scrued, with a fier loock, made in Leige, that would Carrie Poynt blanck as farr as a Muskett and weighed not 4 li. He saw first all the qualetyes and after, as I suppose, sent for Zulpheckcarcon, whom I had not seen since his arriuall at Adsmere. When hee Came, the Prince poynted him to mee, wherat hee came and saluted mee. My enterpreter was Called for and hee asked mee why I was angry with him. ### [19.2.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.2.8) I replied the Cause was Publique: for many Iniuries offered our Nation, and for yet deferring any honest satisfaction. Hee replied with protestation that hee was my Frend: that what hee had done was by Commandement; poynting to the Prince confidently and Carelessly, Ther, saith hee, is hee that did it: but for his owne affection he swoore hee would doe mee any seruice, and that I should not refuse to bee his Frend: that hee would feast mee, and make any recompence, for that was not his owne faulte. I replyed that as long as the busines stood vnfinished I could not accept nor embrace his Frendship: hee had daylie promised to seale the agreement, and made the Merchanntes attend in vayne, which I tooke in great scorne. He answered if that were all betweene vs, that I should send this day: it should bee signed and the mony paied: that hee Cared not for such trifles: to doe me seruice hee would doe a thousand tymes more, soe that I would bee reconciled. I answered: when I saw his performance I would readilye embrace him, and both visitt him and invitte him to mee: and that if his harte were answerable to his professions, hee should for amendes of past wronges mooue the Prince to a better opinion of our Nation, and procure for us such Priuiledges as hee in his owne experience best knew were necessary for vs: this performed and our reckonings evened, I was very ready to exchange any curtesy with him. ### [19.2.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.2.9) Hee replied if I would come oftner to the Prince, he would effect all my busines and vse his best Creditt; and soe wee parted. The Prince harkened to this discourse, and many of the Principalls were gathered about vs, supposing wee would have Chidd, or at least expecting some better sport then wee made them (for they delight in contraversies as a Pastime), but his faire woordes prevented yt. This obseruance I made of him, that hee seemes to bee a free and good Naturd man, for that hee Confidently avowed the fault in his Master, & seemed as it were to scorne to have done such outrages of his owne disposition; and his professions appeared harty, his Carriadge to the Prince carelesse and familiar, vnlike all other men. At afternoone I desiered Master Fettiplace and Iadowe to goe make experience of his Promises. ### [19.3.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.3.1) August 1. — Master Fettiplace went to Zulpheckcarcon for his Scrito for our mony according to agreement; but hee refused to seale it, vnder pretence that hee would first Collect the mony from diuers that had parte of the goodes, and for his owne hee gaue a bill to receiue 3,500 mamoodies of Abram chan; but would not tye himselfe to answer other mens debts. August 2. — I wrote to Asaph chan eyther to procure the seale to my demandes before the shipes arriuall, with all the reasons I could urdge, or to deale soe Nobly as to giue me a reasolute answere; and to meete Mirze Socorolla about the farme. The Coppy is registred. Hee returned: for my Articles they could bee sealed without delay, but that by the negligence of his seruant they were mislayed, else they had bene finished, and required another Coppy: for the farme of Customes, hee would advise thereon and doe me all Frendship; but in plaine termes hee beggd a rich present for the Prince. August 5. — I seeing how Zulpheckcarcon notwithstanding all promises vsed vs, I resolued I would trye the vttmost and bee no farther abused with delaies. Soe that I tooke the occasion of his watch day at the Princes, where hee must needs bee, and ther publiquely to demand satisfaction before his face and lett his highnes know with what euasions my long patience had bene tyred. ### [19.3.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.3.2) But before I went in, I sent Iaddow to signifie the intent of my Comminge, whereatt hee entreated mee not to Complaine nor speake of yt for that day, and if I would trust him soe farr as to forbeare vntill the Princes goeing in, hee would returne with mee, and giue mee full satisfaction. So that I ventured once more, not for his sake, but for that I knewe it would not bee a wellcome motion to the Prince that was soe vnpleasing to his Minion. When the Prince rose and departed I, that neuer thought myselfe suer of soe vncertaine a man, desiered Merzie Socorolla to heare the Conditions agreed on and lett him know that at Zulpheckcarcons entreaty and promise to finish it now, I had that day forborne complaint, desiering \[him\] to wittnes to the Prince, if I were enforced, the iust cause of greeuances I receiued by his daylie falshood, repeating the debt, the abatement, and my desier, with the others promise. With much adoe I got him to Confesse the sumes, but then, beeing free for 4 or 5 daies and hauing now escaped mee, hee sought all means to deferr giuing his scri\[t\]o for the whole, which was that I insisted on. ### [19.3.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.3.3) Breefly, after many disputes Socorolla tould him plainly it was dishonest to putt vs off to any other, seeing hee tooke our goodes, howeuer hee bestowed them : for the Princes part, it was giuen as a present : but that if hee would doe as hee ought, giue me content by his bill for the whole debte and take it vpon himselfe, that hee would moue the Prince to pay as much as hee had receiued, and soe farr ease him : if not, hee would hinder him all in his power and assist mee next daye to Complayne. Diuers others councelled him and perswaded him ; soe at last he gaue his woord Publiquely, desiering me to goe with him to the Court of Guard, wher hee sate, and I should haue my desier. Socorolla intreated mee to doe soe and finish yt, and for the mony hee promised to see it performed. When wee were sate hee offered mee presents and much kind vsage. I desiered a dispatch of that I staied for, and before I could accept of none. Soe hee drewe the bill himselfe and sealed in the presents of diuers and read it to our interpreter and Master Bidolph, who said it was well and sufficient ; wherat wee tooke handes. And pressing mee to take a Gould shalh, I answered wee were but newly frendes : when I saw any constancy in his Carriadge and the mony paid, I would bee more free with him, yet I would receiue no obligation. ### [19.3.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.3.4) Thus this long and troublesome busines is finished, in which I was so farr from any assistance of Justice that I got the disfauour of him that should haue been my Iudge, and Asaph chan my procurator could find noe other means of reconcilment but by agreement with my enemie. Yet the losse is not great or none to the Company, for it is in their powers to make shares, more beeing recouered then their debt by 300 mamoodies or therabouts ; and in theirs not only all things at their owne rates, but the 2,000 mamoodies giuen is Comprised and restored (which was almost a shame to demand, beeing called a guift) ; and I shall desier those that deale in the busines not \[to\] ease themselues in their dispatches, soe gently parting with mony, and cast the burthen and envy on mee to recouer it. What paines and aduentures I ran, what I bare shutting myne eyes and ears against many ill vsages, I best know that soe often felt Nature and honor repine and obiect a stupid patience. This night the king sent 4 or 5 messengers for mee to \[come to\] the Guzelchan, but the first mistaking his arrand and my owne indisposition deferrd my goeing. August 6. — I was sent for to the Durbar, The busines was about a Picture I had lately giuen the king and was Confident that noe man in India could equall yt. So soone as I came hee asked mee what I would giue the Paynter that had made a Coppy soe like it that I should not knowe myne owne. I answered : a Painters reward — 50 rupies. ### [19.3.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.3.5) The king replied his Painter was a Cauallero and that too smalle a guift ; to which I answered I gaue my Picture with a good hart, esteeming it rare, and ment not to make comparisons or wagers : if his Seruant had done as well, and would not accept of my guifte, his Maiestie was most fitt to reward him. Soe with many passages of Iests, mirth and brages concerning the arts of his Countrye, hee fell to aske mee questions : How often I dranck a day, and how much and what ? What in England ? What beere was ? How made ? and whether I could make it heere ? in all which I satisfied his great demands of state. He concluded that I should come to the Guzelchan, and then I should see the Picturs. At night hee sent for mee, beeing hastie to triumph in his woorkman, and shewed me 6 Pictures, 5 made by his man, all pasted on one table, so like that I was by candle-light troubled to discerne which was which ; I confesse beyond all expectation ; yet I shewed myne owne and the differences, which were in arte apparent, but not to be iudged by a Common eye. But for that at first sight I knew it not, hee was very merry and Ioyfull and craked-like a Northern man. I gaue him way and Content, praysing his mans arte. Now, saith hee, what say you ? I replied I saw his Maiestie needed noe Picture from our Country. But, saieth hee, what will you giue the Painter ? ### [19.3.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.3.6) I answered : seeing hee had soe farr excelled my opinione of him, I would double my liberalitye, and that if hee came to my house, I would giue him 100 Rupies to buy a Nagg; which the king tooke kindly, but answered hee should accept no mony but some other guifte; which I promised. The king asked: what? I said it was referrable to my discretion. So hee answered it was true; yet desiered I would name yt. I replyed a good swoord, or Pistoll, or Picture; wherat the king answered: yow confesse hee is a good woorkman: send for him home, and showe him such toyes as you haue and lett him choose one; in requitall wherof you shall choose any of these Coppies to showe in England wee are not soe vnskillfull as you esteeme vs. Soe hee pressed mee to choose one, which I did. The king, wrapping it vp in paper and putting it vp in a table booke of myne, deliuered yt with much Joye and exultation of his mans supposed victory. Wherat I showed him a Picture I had of his Maiestie farr infearior to the woorke I now sawe, which caused mee to iudg of all other by that which was deliuered mee as the best. He asked me where I had it? I tould him. Why, said hee, doe you buy any such things? Haue not I the best, and haue I not tould yow I will giue you what soeuer you desiered ? I thancked his Maiestie, but that I held it not Ciuilitie to trouble him in such trifles, especially as a begger. Hee replied it was noe shame to aske of him, and bad mee speake at all tymes freely ; ### [19.3.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.3.7) pressing mee to Aske somewhat. I answered I would not choose my guifte : what soeuer came from his Maiesties handes I would receiue as a marke of honor. He replied : if you desier my Picture I will giue you one for your selfe or for your king. I answered if his Maiestie would send the king one I would gladly Carrie yt, and knewe his Maiestie would take it Frendly and esteem it much : but that since his Maiestie had embouldned mee I would desier one for my selfe, which I would keepe and leaue to my posterity as an ensigne of his Maiesties fauour. Hee replied : your king doth not desier one, but you doe : therefore you shall haue it ; and soe gaue present order for the Making. Then hee turned to rest, and wee were blindfold dismissed. ### [19.4.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.4.1) August 8. — I receiued lettres from Agra, which signifie that Indico is like to bee at good rates and Cheape : Cloth sells not att all ; hides for losse. Concerninge the debt of Mahamett Hassine left by Robert Young, vpon my lettre the Gouernor wrote to him to pay it ; who refusing, he sent for his officers and hurd the Cause and Judged the debt dewe to the English, and gaue sentence for payment. Yet ther was after abated about 90 rupies, of which Master Crowther frees himselfe. August 9. — This empty day of other busines enuites mee by the strangenes of the action to mention breefly a sentence of the king and execution accordingly. 100 theeues were brought Chayned before him and accused. Without farther Ceremony, as in all such Cases is the Custome, the king bad Carry them away and lett the Cheefe be torne with doggs, kyll the rest. This was all the processe and forme. The Prisoners were deuided to seuerall quarters of the towne, and openly in some street, as in one by my howse, wher 12 doggs tare the Princepall; and 13 of his fellowes, having their handes tyed downe to their feete, had their Neckes cutt with a swoord, but not quite off, and so left naked, bloody, and stincking to euery mans vew and incomodytie. August 10. — I receiued lettres from Amadavaz; with which a Copy newly arriued, from Master Kerridg to Jhon Browne, concerning a dutch shipp of 300 tunns at Ankar at the barr of Swaly. ### [19.4.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.4.2) She had been at Bantam, and laden with south Comodities, had dischardged most part at Moha in the redd sea, wher shee tooke Chickenes and royalls for her goodes, and with about 100 tunns of spices and that mony Came to Suratt, pretending to seeke trade. Her People seemed not willingly to disclose their purpose but that they expected a fleete from Holland and would ryde vntill the season, and accordinly declare. Her arriuall, it seemes, made our factors at Suratt much afrayd, eyther of their purpose to doe some spoyle on the Coast in reuenge of Certeine debts oweing, or of settling a factory in India, where they would both out-present, out-bribe, and out-buy vs in all things, ether of which would be very preiudiciall to our proceedings, especially if they should robb Sultan Caronns ship expected this season in returne from Moha. So that although I had not aduise particularly addressed to mee (of which I woonder) and this Comming casually, yet I went to visitt the king and enformed him of all my lealousyes, which were noe other then to begett some in him. Hee enquired what this ship brought ? which I declared according to relation : What the fleete was like to bring? If they intended trade? Or, if they were men of warr, vpon whom the storme were most probable to fall? ### [19.4.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.4.3) I answered that for their trade they Could bring nothing but Easterne Comodityes, from China or the Islands, for that their owne land yeilded nothing fitt for these parts, but that they liued upon transport of forraigne goodes, and seeking new trades, gayning by all Nations that needed others and had not vse of shipping : but that they most affected a footing in these stated that the ship was the Nassau, which left Bantam in the previous September, and, capturing on her way a Portuguese vessel laden with cinnamon, entered the Red Sea and anchored at Mocha ; after disposing of most of her lading to great profit, her commander, encouraged by some Gujaráti merchants, determined to visit Surat, after spending the monsoon at Socotra ; failing, however, to fetch that island, he was forced to proceed, in spite of the danger of approaching the Indian coast at this season. The governor, wrote Kerridge, was afraid either to entertain the Dutch or to drive them away, and so was temporising : he had refused them a house, though he offered to buy their cargo at current rates : and he was trying to frighten them away by representing their danger of shipwreck or of attack from Portuguese vessels. The English, it seems, entertained the Dutch merchants hospitably, but were evidently alarmed by the prospect of competition from this quarter ; ### [19.4.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.4.4) and Kerridge expressed a strong hope that the expected fleet from England would drive them away, "for such," he said, "is their practice against the English wher or whensoeuer they have power to effect it." Roe's reply, however, was : "concerning the Hollander I haue receiued instructions from England how to deale — not by force, as you intended ;" and, although he spared no pains to secure their dismissal, he was careful to avoid all show of hostility. For a fuller account the narrative of the Dutch commander, Pieter van den Broecke, published at Amsterdam in 1648, should be consulted. Therein he expressly says that "the English did their best with presents and bribes to cause our departure ;" and in his letter to the Directors at Amsterdam describing his voyage (I. O. Records : Hague Transcripts, Series i, vol. ii, No. 73) he specifies the amount thus given as 800 rials. He also mentions that there was an English ambassador at court with a large train of from twenty-five to thirty men. ### [19.4.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.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. ### [19.4.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.4.6) — I visited Asaph chan, and Cast new doubts into his head, pretending seruice and much affection to the Prince : that, because the Hollanders were in leauge with the English, I would not speake that openly to the king which I had reason to feare in behalfe of the Prince, whose shippes were now abroad, to whom all the Coast was now subiect : therfore I had reserued matter of most Consequence for his highnes, wherin if hee would bee pleased to heare mee and to follow my aduise, I would perhaps prevent that which would both trouble and dishonor him : in all which, seeing it proceeded out of an earnest zeale to doe his Highnes seruice, I hoped hee would Iudge of my good meaning and purpose, not according to euents, which were subiect to Casualties, which had often more force in execution of councells then the wisest and most aduised reasons. He gaue mee great thanckes for my Care and loue to them, desiering me to goe on the morowe to the Prince, whom hee would prepare that eueninge for a Conferance with mee; ### [19.4.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.4.7) withall admonishing mee (with deepe protestations that he spake it with the like affection and loue to mee that he saw I carried toward them by tymely warning) that I should by all meanes indeauour to prevent that the Dutch should neither robb the Princes ships nor spoyle the Coast, for that it would bee very ill taken of the king and dangerous for vs, in respect that he had often hard that they were a Nation, though not subiect, yett som way dependant vpon the king of England. I answered: though I had no reason to doubt the kings iustice and wisdom in discerning and doeing right, yet hee might see that I had their safety already in my Care, which made mee so farr wade into the busines almost against our frendes: yet the loue of Iustice compelled me to yt, for that wee were frendes to the dutch, but not to any of their vnlawfull attempts: that I could by noe means answer, nor by any equitye be required to yt, for what they should doe at sea: but after the arriuall of our fleete, or where wee were seated, I supposed they would offer no violence, and to that end I would both use my Creditt and authoritye, and also giue such dayly aduise and intelligence as came to mee: and that for prevention of what might happen at sea, I would deliuer my opinione to the Prince. Now though these doubts which I sowed (especially of any enterprise on the Coast) were not so vrgent as I pretended, yet they serued my turne for many purposes; ### [19.4.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.4.8) first, to imprint in the Prince an opinion of my desier to doe him seruice and good affection of our Nation toward. him, and hereby to procure a more familiarytie of discourse ; secondly, I would vnder that pretence lay such rubbs in the Hollanders way as should not easely bee remooued, a matter of no small consequence to this trade, by whose admittance wee were vtterly lost ; at least I would so farr norish Iealousy as to keepe them from any footing ; lastly, and which is not of least vse, I would tell my owne tale in the Hollanders person, seeing it is necessarie that the Prince know how wee wilbe reuenged if we continew to bee misused, and yet not convenient that I deliuer so much playnly, as our busines now standes. ### [19.5.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.5.1) Asaph chan seemed greatly pleased, assuring mee of fauour from the king to our Nation and of very gratfull reception from the Prince of my endeauours ; wherat I tooke occasion to tell him how little encouragment I had yet receiued, especially in the delay of those articles propounded in the Name of my Master, which was a busines most concerned mee and was the only siment to ioyne the affections of both Nations to avoyed and disperce all Iealousyes, whereby a perfect leauge and a kind of naturall loue would growe by Continuall trafique, commerce and entercourse one with another. He answered it was his faulte, but that ther was tyme enough, it beeing 6 weekes to the shippes arriuall, before which I could make little vse of yt : but that if hee had any honor in him, I should receiue them sealed within 3 dayes, and that what soeuer else lay in him to doe mee or my nation seruice I should Command. I answered in the same mettle of obedience, but to shorten Complements hee said wee should bee brothers, and that the title should bee sufficient to expresse all profession. August 12. — I went to the Princes, to whom (as if I had reserued the secrett and misterie of the busines only for him) I desired what I deliuered might bee priuatly ; which was done. ### [19.5.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.5.2) First, I tould him I had great reason to suspect that the dutch fleete expected had some ill purpose, by the Carriadge of the shipp arriued, who offered to land no goodes but dealt closely, reseruing their resolution vntill the Comming of their fellowes, pretending that they entended a factory, which if they did they would vnlade and not venture to ride in soe terrible a roade open to the sea upon a lee shoare, a thing strange and with vs held impossible, that any shipp could gett in from the westward in this season, much lesse bide at Anchor the force of wyndes ordinarye vntill the change of the Monson : But for preuention, I vnderstood they desired to bring their ship, which drew but 12 foote water, over the barr and to ride in the riuer, yet without Command of any fort ; which gaue mee the most suspition, for shee would bee master of the riuer, and goe out at Pleasure ; ### [19.5.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.5.3) But that which did almost Confirme mee that assuredly they ment to surprise his hignes ships was That about tenn yeares since The Hollanders had a factorie at Suratt where all their Merchannts died, leauinge much goodes and mony in their house, which being veiwed and taken by Inventorie, Channa Channa and diuers great men deuided and tooke amonge them, yet sending lettres to Mesolapatan of the Particulars, offering to repay it all to any that should bring lawfull authoritie to receiue it, whervpon this last yeare The Hollanders sent ouer land two principall Merchannts from Mesolapatan to Suratt, hoping to haue found such Iustice as their promise pretended, but Contrary they were beaten and ill vsed, recouering scarcly their Chardge and some Indico that was kept vnsould, but for the mayne of the mony it was pretended to be in the handes of Channa Channa and other great men ; ### [19.5.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.5.4) These Merchants thus baffatted at Suratt resolued to trie the vtmost by faier meanes, and desiered leaue of mee to goe in my Company to Brampore, wher beeing, as they pretended, refused audience and all satisfaction they returned to Mesolapatan, but first reauealing to mee their intents : that they feared this refusall before they vndertooke the voyadge, but yet to bee free from all scandall they had made tryall : but that it was resolued the yeare following (which is this present) there should Come a fleete to the Port of Suratt, wher, if satisfaction had beene made, they would trade, but finding the Contrarie with some shipes they would shutt vp the riuer and with others range too and againe and surprise all that Came out of the redd sea and all other trading on the Coast; all which Considered, and that this shipp desiers to Come over the barr, I had great reason to suspect that now that was in execution which was so long threatned : that this shipp should stopp the entrance to safety while the others tooke the booty, the rather because the Hollanders were soe incensed at the insolencyes offered them, and that they were a people strong at sea and revengfull, and would neyther forget to \[nor ?\] pardon Iniurye. ### [19.5.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.5.5) I put his highnes in mynd how easy it was to take his shipps and all others trading into the redd sea, and what losse it would bee to him and to all his subiects to haue the trade either shutt vp or to expose his goodes to yearly and Certaine danger : that therfore his highnes should well advise how those were entreated that beeing too strong in shipping were so able to requite all Iniuryes. Hee gaue mee many thanckes, with much profession of his gratitude for my good affection showed him in this intelligence ; but withall was much troubled, desiering me to giue him some councell what to doe and how to behaue himselfe at present, and to avoyd the danger of his shipes. I answered I was very vnfitt to giue him advise, being so naturally Pregnant, haueing so many wise men about him : but, seeing hee so pleased to Command, I would venture my opinione and referr it to his Judgement to execute according to his wisdome : That hee should write to the lieutenant at Suratt to giue them all good woordes, but if it were possible (vnder pretence of care of their safety) to fright them from Comming ouer the barr with the many shelffs, sandes and dangers of the riuer, and then his highnes should bee sure they would either away for feare of the weather and not returne vntill the season of Change, when I hoped our ships would be arriued to doe him seruice and to prevent any injury : or if they resolued to ride it out it was 100 to one they would be Cast away, and soe the question ended. ### [19.5.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.5.6) But if no perswation could preuaile but that they would ouer the barr, then the Leiutennant should perswade them to bring the ship vp to the towne, vnder pretence of better riding and more Conuenience of refreshing (which may else be refused them) and so draw them vnder the Command of the Castle, wherby they could not depart without leaue, and if their fellowes had done any thing at sea this would bee a good Pawne to redeeme yt. But because it is easier and wiselier done to prevent mischeefe then to redresse it or punish yt, his highnes might send a Post ouer land to Syndu in. 6 dayes, and thence send an aduisall frigott to his shipps to giue warning to looke out for a fleete and to keepe in sight of land, so that if such bee discouered they may shift vnder some fort or gett into Syndu : and that after, if the fleete arriue at Suratt peaceably and desier satisfaction and trade, his Highnes in honor would I doubt not cause them to haue iustice, But for trade I must referr it to his wisdome. ### [19.5.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.5.7) Only thus much I would signifie : they would bee very vnruly ashore, disorderly especially by drincke, and that, if any iustice were done in such Case, they would make it a quarrell, beeing desierous of any occasion, for that accept they might Command here (which would not befitt his greatnes) as they did in all other their residences, they professe them selues they shall gaine more by stealing in one yeare then by trading in many : So that if his highnes could be quiettly ridd of them, it were a happines and ease to him. But, howeuer, if his highnes saw cause to entertaine them, I hoped it should noe way bee in our preiudice, who had beene priuiledged many years by his father and were most ready to doe him seruice. Hee answered mee they should noe way disadvantage vs : that in all that I had deliuered he would follow my Councell and would not resolue anything Concerning the Hollanders without my aduise, desiering me to Continew to enforme him, and hee would apply him selfe wholy according to such instructions as hee should receiue of mee ; with many promises, good woordes, and Complements. So that I haue arriued at one of my proposed endes, and am in a faire Course to all ; but successes are subiect to the Chance of circumstances, and the myndes of Princes alter with tyme, or are ouerswayd with Passions and some tymes bought with too easy a Price. ### [19.5.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.5.8) Here I mooued Mir\[z\]ie Socorollo for the Princes resolution for so much of Zulphecarcons debt as hee chardged the Prince withall, for that Master Bidolph the day before had showed him his hand and seale for the whole, wherin was Mentioned to be oweing by his highnes 5,500 mamoodies, and hee desiered to show the bill to the Prince and to know his pleasure. He answered he had moued the Prince and had order for so much, and would eyther pay it on the morrow or giue warrant to receiue so much at Suratt ; and for 3,500 mamoodies which Zulpheckcarcon had previously giuen his bill to Abram chan, hee would write his lettre to Command the deliuery, which made 9,000 in all ; the remainder, which was to bee payd by Zulpheckcarcon, hee would see performed at the Arriuall of the Iudg of the Custome house, who was dayly expected. ### [19.6.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.6.1) I am loath to omitt any Curtesie done me — I had so fewe — and because this was one of the greatest and for the manner new and from a person of so great qualety, I cannot but in gratitude confesse it. His name is Gemal-Din-Vssin, a man of 70 yeares, vizeroy of Patan and lord of four Cittyes in Bengala, one that hath beene often Embassador, and of more vnderstanding and curtesye then all his Countriemen, and to be esteemed hospitable and a receiuer of strangers, not secrettly ambitious. Hee often made meanes that I would come to his house, which at last I did, and was receiued with extraordinary familiarity and kindnes ; offering me a /eeck of rupias and such other Curtesyes so great that they beespake their owne refusall. His fauour with the king, his Creditt, his councell, all was offered that could fullfill Complements. And this I must confesse that from a person reuerent in yeares it seemed more cordiall ; and for in some discourse speaking so playnly of his fellowes in Court truthes in myne owne experience, I resolued hee was a good-Natured and right-harted ould man. ### [19.6.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19.6.2) Hee tould mee much of the Customes of this Countrie, of their seruitude, of their want of lawes, of the encrease of this empire, wherin hee had serued 3 Princes in grace and fauour (of which tymes hee showed mee a booke or Annall of all memorable Actions, which hee had daylie Committed to record and had nowe composed them into a historye, the Copy wherof hee offered mee, if I could procure it translated), concerning the kings reuenew and the manner of raysing it, besides Confiscations, guifts, and Cuttings vpon great men: that the Gouerment of euery Prouince did yearly pay a rent, as for his Gouerment of Patan only hee gaue the king 11 leeckes of rupies (the rupe starling is 2 shillings 2 pence): all other profitts were his, wherin hee had regall authoritye to take what hee list, which was esteemed at 5,000 horse, the pay of euerie one at 200 rupies by yeare, wherof hee keept 1,500 and was alowed the surplase as dead pay; besides this the king gaue him of Pension 1,000 rupies a day and some smaller gouerments ; yet hee assured mee ther were diuers that had double his entertaynment, and aboue 20 equall. Hee praysed the good Prophet Jesus and his lawes, and was full of very delightfull and fruictfull discourse. This visitt was past some few dayes, and I thought that his curtesye had beene at an end, but this day he had borowed of the king his house and Garden of Pleasure Hauaz Gemall, a mile out of towne, to feast mee in ; _First 42 of 75 passages. [Read on](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19)_ --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.roe-embassy~en-foster.19) · Pramāṇa