The Embassy of Sir Thomas Roe to the Court of the Great Mogul 24.3.3

24.3.3

My qualety often for Ceremonyes eyther begettes you enemyes or suffers vnwoorthely. The King hath often demanded an Ambassador from Spayne but could neuer obteyne it, for two reasons: first, because they would not giue Presentes vnwoorthy their kinges greatnes; Next, they knew his reception should not answere his qualety. I haue moderated it according to my discretion, but with a swolne hart. Halfe my Chardg shall corrupt all this Court to bee your slaues; and I assure you I can doe you better seruice at home; and so desire you to bid mee wellcome whensoeuer I come. I will not leaue your busines vnsettled; nor willingly loose tyme to no purpose. I desier you will examine my actions and accept my endeavours, and beleeue my hart is sincere to doe you seruice. Postscript. — The best way to doe your busines in this Court is to find some Mogol that you may enterteyne for 1000 rupees by the yeare as your solicitor at Court. Hee must bee authorised by the King, and then hee will better serue you then ten Ambassadors. Vnder him you must allowe 500 rupees for another at your Port to follow the Gouernor and Customers and to aduertise his Cheefe at Court. These two will effect all.