The Embassy of Sir Thomas Roe to the Court of the Great Mogul 22.6.1

22.6.1

At night I sent to the Princes secretary for my promised writing; but his Highnes was loath to lett the Presentes passe without ransacking and had changed his mynd, refusing to seale the lettre. October 22. — I went early to the Secretary to know the reason of this inconstancy and the Princes resolution. He answered I could not haue the letter sealed vnlesse I would consent to haue all opened in the Alfandica, Pretending that the Merchanntes would pass vp Jewelles and Pearles to sell vnder that Coulor. I assured him on my woord they were dearer in England then here: that wee brought none: that I would not countenance any thing vnder that Coulor to abuse the Prince and dishoner my selfe: that I scorned to saue Petty Customes basely: that I gaue among the Princes Porters dayly more. I vrdged the kinges command, his Masters Promise; but no reason, no importunitye would preuayle against this gredy desier of Presentes, though in yt hee robbd his father. What will not youth and insolency attempt when it knowes no limitts, when it is aduanced beyond the Capacitye and law of reason?