to all persons whom these may concern, in the several townes, and plantations of the united colonies in new-england it is hereby declared, that his highness the lord protectour of the common wealth of england &c: hath commissoned and impowered daniel gookin dwelling at cambridg in the massachusets, to make agreement with any convenient number of the english in the colonies of new-england, who shall desire to remove themselves or families into jamaica in the west-indies,... gookin, daniel, 1612-1687. this text is an enriched version of the tcp digital transcription a41545 of text w6490 in the english short title catalog (wing g1271a). textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. the text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with morphadorner. the annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. this text has not been fully proofread approx. 2 kb of xml-encoded text transcribed from 1 1-bit group-iv tiff page image. earlyprint project evanston,il, notre dame, in, st. louis, mo 2017 a41545 wing g1271a estc w6490 99829592 99829592 34032 this keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the early english books online text creation partnership. this phase i text is available for reuse, according to the terms of creative commons 0 1.0 universal . the text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. early english books online. (eebo-tcp ; phase 1, no. a41545) transcribed from: (early english books online ; image set 34032) images scanned from microfilm: (early english books, 1641-1700 ; 2005:19) to all persons whom these may concern, in the several townes, and plantations of the united colonies in new-england it is hereby declared, that his highness the lord protectour of the common wealth of england &c: hath commissoned and impowered daniel gookin dwelling at cambridg in the massachusets, to make agreement with any convenient number of the english in the colonies of new-england, who shall desire to remove themselves or families into jamaica in the west-indies,... gookin, daniel, 1612-1687. 1 sheet ([1] p.) s.n., [boston, mass. : 1656] attributed by wing to daniel gookin. imprint from wing. title is from caption and first lines of text. reproduction of the original at the bodleian library. eng gookin, daniel, 1612-1687 -early works to 1800. jamaica -early works to 1800. a41545 w6490 (wing g1271a). civilwar no to all persons whom these may concern, in the several townes, and plantations of the united colonies in new-england. it is hereby declared, england and wales. lord protector 1656 320 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 a this text has no known defects that were recorded as gap elements at the time of transcription. 2007-09 tcp assigned for keying and markup 2007-10 apex covantage keyed and coded from proquest page images 2007-12 mona logarbo sampled and proofread 2007-12 mona logarbo text and markup reviewed and edited 2008-02 pfs batch review (qc) and xml conversion to all persons whom these may concern , in the several townes , and plantations of the vnited colonies in new-england . it is hereby declared , that his highness the lord protectour of the common wealth of england &c : hath commissioned and impowered daniel gookin dwelling at cambridg in the massachusets , to make agreement with any convenient number of the english in the colonies of new-england , who shall desire to remove themselves or families into jamaica in the west-indies , now in possession of the state of england ; and for their better incouragement , his highness ( bearing a special affection to the people of new england , and being very desirous to have the said place inhabited by a stock of such as know the lord , and walk in his fear , ) will graunt them , ships for transportation ; a sufficient proportion of land to them and their heires for ever near some good harbour in the said island ; protection ( by gods blessing ) from all enemies ; a share of all the horses , cattle and other beasts , wild and tame upon the place freely , together with other priviledges and immunities , the particulars wherof may be known by those who shall see cause to address themselves to the said daniel gookin ( or such as he shall desire to be helpfull herein , whose names are underneath expressed in writing ) who will be ready to make full agreement with them according to his highness instructions , and take their reciprocall ingagements and subscriptions to remove accordingly . farther it is desired that such as incline to the design aforesaid , do make known themselves without delay , it being his highness pleasure that the work of transporting should be begun before the end of september next . dated this 25 of march 1656. a letter from jamaica, to a friend in london, concerning kid-napping. 1682 approx. 5 kb of xml-encoded text transcribed from 1 1-bit group-iv tiff page image. text creation partnership, ann arbor, mi ; oxford (uk) : 2009-03 (eebo-tcp phase 1). a48063 wing l1481 estc r213991 99826232 99826232 30629 this keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the early english books online text creation partnership. this phase i text is available for reuse, according to the terms of creative commons 0 1.0 universal . the text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. early english books online. (eebo-tcp ; phase 1, no. a48063) transcribed from: (early english books online ; image set 30629) images scanned from microfilm: (early english books, 1641-1700 ; 1761:34) a letter from jamaica, to a friend in london, concerning kid-napping. t. m. aut 1 sheet ([1] p.) s.n., [s.l. : 1682] caption title. publication date from wing. signed at end: t.m. reproduction of the original in the bodleian library. created by converting tcp files to tei p5 using tcp2tei.xsl, tei @ oxford. re-processed by university of nebraska-lincoln and northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. eebo-tcp is a partnership between the universities of michigan and oxford and the publisher proquest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by proquest via their early english books online (eebo) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). the general aim of eebo-tcp is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic english-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in eebo. eebo-tcp aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the text encoding initiative (http://www.tei-c.org). the eebo-tcp project was divided into two phases. the 25,363 texts created during phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 january 2015. anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source. users should be aware of the process of creating the tcp texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data. text selection was based on the new cambridge bibliography of english literature (ncbel). if an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in ncbel, then their works are eligible for inclusion. selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. in general, first editions of a works in english were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably latin and welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so. image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in oxford and michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet qa standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. after proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of tcp data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a tcp editor. the texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the tei in libraries guidelines. copies of the texts have been issued variously as sgml (tcp schema; ascii text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable xml (tcp schema; characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless xml (tei p5, characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or tei g elements). keying and markup guidelines are available at the text creation partnership web site . eng kidnapping -england -early works to 1800. abduction -england -early works to 1800. jamaica -history -early works to 1800. 2007-11 tcp assigned for keying and markup 2008-05 spi global keyed and coded from proquest page images 2008-06 mona logarbo sampled and proofread 2008-06 mona logarbo text and markup reviewed and edited 2008-09 pfs batch review (qc) and xml conversion a letter from jamaica , to a friend in london , concerning kid-napping . sir , yours found me a little indispos'd ; but yet i made the best enquiry my health and opportunity would give me leave to answer your desires . the relation you have sent me of the great abuses in the spiriting away of children , makes a very sad story ; and must needs be a lamentable grief to their parents that have lost them . you should have done well to have sent me the names of those that are missing ; or if you think fit to have me look any further into this business , pray let me receive your further directions at your best leisure . we are not without apprehensions here in this place for the divisions in england ; i wish we may yet live to meet again in comfort and peace . the paper which i send you here enclosed , is all i was able to do in so short a time ; but upon the truth of it you may depend . i do not know but you may find in this list some unhappy people that you look for ; and it would be well if you made a publication of it in one of the comon news papers : mr. janeway , or mr. curtis , i make no doubt will do it for you , and it may be so notified , as that any of those good people that have lost their children , may understand whither to repair for satisfaction . if you know no better a way , you might do well to apply your self to mr. john wilmore in jewen-street , who is a planter himself , and knows all the tricks of those rascals . besides that , he is a man of business in the city , a large acquaintance , a true protestant , and ( if i am not mistaken ) a common-council-man . he is very industrious and charitable beside ; and if there should be occasion , he is as likely to assist you as any man i know : thô it were to go as far as the hope upon the errand , to save a poor child from want , and slavery . i need say no more to you , than that if you have his friendship , he can tell you all the ways of the trapan : how they take up children , inviegle them away , and the conveieances they have for the concealing of them . these kid-nappers will tell you perhaps that a child was ready to be eaten up with vermin , and they took him in compassion ; that they could not get quit of him , or persuade him to come back it may be , thô he were ready to leap into the sea : wherefore you must get a discreet justice to examine the mater ; so the rest i leave to your discretion . little will takes to his business very well ; and i hope his friends will have comfort of him . pray commend me to all my good friends and acquaintance in your neighbourhood , and pardon all faults ; for i must immediately take my leave of you , and subscribe my self your affectionate kinsman and servant , t. m. if any person named in the following list , shall be found to have been spirited away : notice may be left with mr. walter davis , in amen-corner , who will give directions how to make a further enquiry . the number of whites . 1. joseph russel . 2. william burne . 3. george shallitoe . 4. vrban rony . 5. andrew reddal . 6. william polliard . 7. john brown. 8. richard sevitor . 8. richard sevitor . 9. james durham . 10. george french. 11. thomas woodcock . total of the whites — 11. the number of whites that dyed in my time . thomas hughs . 5 peter peterson . john gwartwrite . thomas davies . samuel hodgley . sold in my time . thomas martin . 2 thomas barber . free. william ward . richard barret . lost at law with fountain . jamaica decemb. a proclamation for the encouraging of planters in his majesties island of jamaica in the west-indies england and wales. sovereign (1660-1685 : charles ii) 1661 approx. 4 kb of xml-encoded text transcribed from 3 1-bit group-iv tiff page images. text creation partnership, ann arbor, mi ; oxford (uk) : 2003-09 (eebo-tcp phase 1). a32556 wing c3479 estc r5792 12271037 ocm 12271037 58242 this keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the early english books online text creation partnership. this phase i text is available for reuse, according to the terms of creative commons 0 1.0 universal . the text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. early english books online. (eebo-tcp ; phase 1, no. a32556) transcribed from: (early english books online ; image set 58242) images scanned from microfilm: (early english books, 1641-1700 ; 863:47) a proclamation for the encouraging of planters in his majesties island of jamaica in the west-indies england and wales. sovereign (1660-1685 : charles ii) charles ii, king of england, 1630-1685. 2 leaves. printed by john bill and christopher barker ..., london : 1661. reproduction of original in the university of illinois (urbana-champaign campus). library. imprint from colophon. caption title. at head of title: by the king. at end of text: given at our court at whitehal, this fourteenth day of december, in the thirteenth year of our reign. created by converting tcp files to tei p5 using tcp2tei.xsl, tei @ oxford. re-processed by university of nebraska-lincoln and northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. eebo-tcp is a partnership between the universities of michigan and oxford and the publisher proquest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by proquest via their early english books online (eebo) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). the general aim of eebo-tcp is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic english-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in eebo. eebo-tcp aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the text encoding initiative (http://www.tei-c.org). the eebo-tcp project was divided into two phases. the 25,363 texts created during phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 january 2015. anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source. users should be aware of the process of creating the tcp texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data. text selection was based on the new cambridge bibliography of english literature (ncbel). if an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in ncbel, then their works are eligible for inclusion. selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. in general, first editions of a works in english were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably latin and welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so. image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in oxford and michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet qa standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. after proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of tcp data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a tcp editor. the texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the tei in libraries guidelines. copies of the texts have been issued variously as sgml (tcp schema; ascii text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable xml (tcp schema; characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless xml (tei p5, characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or tei g elements). keying and markup guidelines are available at the text creation partnership web site . eng jamaica -colonization -sources. jamaica -colonization -government policy -early works to 1800. 2003-04 tcp assigned for keying and markup 2003-05 apex covantage keyed and coded from proquest page images 2003-06 mona logarbo sampled and proofread 2003-06 mona logarbo text and markup reviewed and edited 2003-08 pfs batch review (qc) and xml conversion cr diev·et mon·droit honi soit qvi mal y pense royal blazon or coat of arms by the king. a proclamation for the encouraging of planters in his majesties island of iamaica in the west-indies . charles r. we being fully satisfied , that our island of jamaica , being a pleasant and most fertile soyl , and scituate commodiously for trade and commerce , is likely , through gods blessing , to be a great benefit and advantage to this and other our kingdoms and dominions , have thought fit , for encouraging of our subjects , as well such as are already upon the said island , as all others that shall transport themselves thither , and reside and plant there , to declare and publish , and we do hereby declare and publish , that thirty acres of improveable lands shall be granted and allotted to every such person , male or female , being twelve years old or upwards , who now resides , or within two years next ensuing , shall reside upon the said island , and that the same shall be assigned and set out by the governor and council within six weeks next after notice shall be given in writing , subscribed by such planter or planters , or some of them , in behalf of the rest , to the governor , or such officer as he shall appoint in that behalf , signifying their resolutions to plant there , and when they intend to be on the place . and in case they do not go thither within six moneths then next ensuing , the said allotment shall be void , and free to be assigned to any other planter ; and that every person and persons to whom such assignment shall be made , shall hold and enjoy the said lands so to be assigned , and all houses , edifices , buildings , and inclosures , thereupon to be built or made , to them and their heirs for ever , by and under such tenure as is usual in other plantations subject unto us . nevertheless they are to be obliged to serve in arms upon any insurrection , mutiny , or forreign invasion ; and that the said assignments and allotments shall be made and confirmed under the publick seal of the said island , with power to create any mannor or mannors , and with such convenient and suitable priviledges and immunities , as the grantee shall reasonably devise and require ; and a draught of such assignments shall be prepared by our learned council in the law , and delivered to the governor to that purpose ; and that all fishings and piscaries , and all copper , lead , tin , iron , coals , and all other mines ( except gold and silver ) within such respective allotments , shall be enjoyed by the grantees thereof , reserving only a twentieth part of the product of the said mines to our use . and we do further publish and declare , that all children of any of our natural born subjects of england to be born in jamaica , shall from their respective births be reputed to be , and shall be free denizens of england , and shall have the same priviledges to all intents and purposes as our free-born subjects of england ; and that all free persons shall have liberty without interruption , to transport themselves and their families , and any their goods ( except only coyn and bullion ) from any of our dominions and territories to the said island of jamaica . and we do straitly charge and command all planters , soldiers , and others upon the said island , to yield obedience to the lawful commands of our right trusty and welbeloved thomas lord windsor , now our governor of the said island , and to every other governor thereof for the time being , under pain of our displeasure , and such penalties as may be inflicted thereupon . given at our court at whitehal , this fourteenth day of december , in the thirteenth year of our reign . god save the king. london , printed by iohn bill and christopher barker , printers to the king' 's most excellent majesty , 1661. the earth-quake of jamaica describ'd in a pindarick poem / by mr. tutchin. tutchin, john, 1661?-1707. 1692 approx. 10 kb of xml-encoded text transcribed from 5 1-bit group-iv tiff page images. text creation partnership, ann arbor, mi ; oxford (uk) : 2008-09 (eebo-tcp phase 1). a63960 wing t3373 estc r20574 12293630 ocm 12293630 58951 this keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the early english books online text creation partnership. this phase i text is available for reuse, according to the terms of creative commons 0 1.0 universal . the text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. early english books online. (eebo-tcp ; phase 1, no. a63960) transcribed from: (early english books online ; image set 58951) images scanned from microfilm: (early english books, 1641-1700 ; 196:4) the earth-quake of jamaica describ'd in a pindarick poem / by mr. tutchin. tutchin, john, 1661?-1707. 8 p. printed, and are to be sold by r. baldwin ..., london : 1692. first ed. cf. bm. reproduction of original in harvard university libraries. created by converting tcp files to tei p5 using tcp2tei.xsl, tei @ oxford. re-processed by university of nebraska-lincoln and northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. eebo-tcp is a partnership between the universities of michigan and oxford and the publisher proquest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by proquest via their early english books online (eebo) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). the general aim of eebo-tcp is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic english-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in eebo. eebo-tcp aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the text encoding initiative (http://www.tei-c.org). the eebo-tcp project was divided into two phases. the 25,363 texts created during phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 january 2015. anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source. users should be aware of the process of creating the tcp texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data. text selection was based on the new cambridge bibliography of english literature (ncbel). if an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in ncbel, then their works are eligible for inclusion. selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. in general, first editions of a works in english were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably latin and welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so. image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in oxford and michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet qa standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. after proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of tcp data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a tcp editor. the texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the tei in libraries guidelines. copies of the texts have been issued variously as sgml (tcp schema; ascii text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable xml (tcp schema; characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless xml (tei p5, characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or tei g elements). keying and markup guidelines are available at the text creation partnership web site . eng earthquakes -jamaica. jamaica -history -earthquake, 1692. 2007-06 tcp assigned for keying and markup 2007-07 apex covantage keyed and coded from proquest page images 2007-08 jonathan blaney sampled and proofread 2007-08 jonathan blaney text and markup reviewed and edited 2008-02 pfs batch review (qc) and xml conversion the earth-quake of jamaica , describ'd in a pindarick poem . by mr. tutchin . — namque diespiter igni corusco nubila dividens plerumque per purum tonantes egit equos volucremque currum , quo bruta tellus & vaga flumina , quo styx , & invisi horrida toenari sedes , atlanteusque finis concutitur . valet ima summis mutare , — horat. lib. 1. ode 34. london , printed , and are to be sold by r. baldwin , near the oxford-arms in warwick-lane , 1692. the earthquake of jamaica describ'd in a poem . i. well may our lives bear an uncertain date ; disturb'd with maladies within , without by cross events of fate , the worst of plagues on mortals wait , pride , ignorance and sin. if our ancient mother earth , who gave us all untimely birth , such strong hysterick passion feels ; if orbs are from their axles torn , and mountains into valleys worn , all in a moments space , can humane race stand on their legs when nature reels ? unhappy man ! in all things cross'd , on every giddy wave of fortune toss'd : the only thing that aims at sway , and yet capricious fate must still obey ; travels for wealth to foreign lands , o're scorching mountains , and o're desart sands , laden with gold , when homeward bound , is in one vast impetuous billow drown'd : or if he reaches to the shoar , and there unlades his oar , builds towns and houses which may last and stand , thinking no wealth so sure as firm land ; yet fate the animal does still pursue ; this slides from underneath his feet , and leaves him too . ii. environ'd with ten thousand fears we live , for fate do's seldom a just ▪ warning give ; quicker than thought its dire resolves are made , and swift as lightning flies , around the vast extended skies : all things are by its bolts in vast confusion laid . sometimes a flaming comet does appear , whose very visage does pronounce , decay of kingdoms , and the fall of crowns , intestine war , or pestilential year ; sometimes a hurricane of fate , does on some great mans exit wait , a murder'd cornish , or some hercules , when from their trunks almighty jove , who breaks with thunder weighty clouds above , to honour these large pines and oaks does lop , and in a whirlwind lays 'em upon oeta's top. e're this vast orb shall unto chaos turn , and with consuming flames shall burn , an angel trumpeter shall come , whose noise shall shake the massie ground , in one short moment shall express , his notes to the whole universe ; the very dead shall hear his sound , and from their graves repair , to the impartial bar , those that have been in the deep ocean drown'd , shall at his call come to receive their doom . iii. but here , alas ! no omens fly , no secret whisper of their destiny was heard ; none cou'd divine when fate wou'd spring the mine : safe and secure the mortals go , not dreaming of a hell below ; in the dark caverns of the gloomy earth , where suffocating sulphur has its birth , and sparkling nitre's made , where vulcan and his cyclops prove ▪ the thunderbolts they make for jove ; here aeolus his winds has laid , here is his windy palace , here 't is said his race of little puffing gods are bred , which serve for bellows to blow up the flame , the dire ingredients are in order plac'd , which must anon lay towns and cities waste . strait the black engineer of heaven came , his match a sun-beam was , he swift as time unto the train did pass , it soon took fire ; the fire and winds contend , but both concur the vaulted earth to rend ; it upwards rose , and then it downwards fell , aiming at heaven , it sunk to hell : the neighbring seas now own no more , the sturdy bulwarks of the shoar , the gaping earth and greedy sea , are both contending for the prey ; those whom the rav'nous earth had ta'ne , into her bowels back again are wash't from thence by the insulting main . iv. the old and young receive alike their doom , the cowards and the brave , are buried in one grave ; for fate allows 'em all one common tomb. the aged and the wise lose all their reason in the great surprise . they know not where to go , and yet they dare not stay , there 's fire and smoak below , and the earth gaping to receive the prey : if to the houses top they crawl , these tumble too , and downwards fall : and if they fly into the street , there grizly death they meet ; all in a hurry dye away , the wicked had not time to pray . the soldier once cou'd teach grim death to kill , in vain is all his skill , in vain he brandisheth his steel : no more the art of war must teach , bnt lyes fates trophy underneath the breach : the good companions now no more carouse , they share the fate of the declining house , healths to their friends their bumpers crown'd : but while they put the glasses round , death steps between the cup and lip , nor would it let 'em take one parting sip. v. the mine is sprung , and a large breach is made , whereat strong troops of warring seas invade ; these overflow ; where houses stood and grass did grow , all sorts of fish resort : they had dominions large enough before , but now unbounded by the shoar , they o're the tops of houses sport . the watry fry their legions do extend , and for the new slain prey contend ; within the houses now they roam , into their foe , the very kitchen , come . one does the chimney-hearth assail , another flaps the kettle with his slimy tail. no image there of death is seen , no cook-maid does obstruct their sway , they have entirely got the day . those who have once devour'd been by mankind , now on man do feed : thus fate decides , and steps between , and sometimes gives the slave the victors meed . the beauteous virgins whom the gods might love , cou'd not the curse of heav'n remove ; their goodness might for crimes atone , inexorable death spares none . their tender flesh lately so plump and good , is now made fishes and sea-monsters food ; in vain they cry , heav'n is grown deaf , and no petition hears , their sighs are answer'd like their lovers pray'rs , they in the universal ruin lye . vi. nor is inexorable fate content to ruine one poor town alone ; more mischief by the blow is done : death 's on a farther message sent . when fate a garrison does sack , the very suburbs do partake of martial law , its forces draw to every mountain , field and wood , they ravage all the neighbourhood . worse than the weak assaults of steel , its instruments of death all places feel . they undiscover'd , like fell poison kill , its warriours fierce , the earth , the air , and men do pierce ; and mounted , fight upon the winged winds . here a great mountain in a valley's thrown , and there a valley to a mountain grown . the very breath of an incensed god , makes even proud olympus nod. chang'd is the beauty of the fruitful isle , and its fair woods lopp'd for its funeral pile . the moving earth forms it self in waves , and curls its surface like the rowling seas ; vvhilst man ( that little thing ) so vainly raves ; nothing but heaven can its own vvrath appease . vii . but fate at length thought fit to leave its toil , and greedy death was glutted with the spoil . as weary soldiers having try'd their steel , half drown'd with blood , do then desist to kill . more ruin wou'd a second deluge make , blot out the name of the unhappy isle . it fares with her as when in martial field , resolv'd and brave , and loath to yield , two num'rous armies do contend , and with repeated shouts the air do rend . vvhilst the affrighted earth does shake , some large battalions are entirely lost , and vvarring squadrons from the mighty host : here by a shot does fall some potent general ; and near to him , another loses but a limb. part of the island was a prey to fate , and all the rest do ▪ s but prolong its date , 'till injur'd heav'n finds , its bolts a terror strike on humane minds ; sure we may hope the sinners there repent , since it has made their lewdest priest relent . finis . a trip to jamaica with a true character of the people and island / by the author of sot's paradise. ward, edward, 1667-1731. 1698 approx. 42 kb of xml-encoded text transcribed from 9 1-bit group-iv tiff page images. text creation partnership, ann arbor, mi ; oxford (uk) : 2003-07 (eebo-tcp phase 1). a67527 wing w761 estc r905 12880851 ocm 12880851 94931 this keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the early english books online text creation partnership. this phase i text is available for reuse, according to the terms of creative commons 0 1.0 universal . the text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. early english books online. (eebo-tcp ; phase 1, no. a67527) transcribed from: (early english books online ; image set 94931) images scanned from microfilm: (early english books, 1641-1700 ; 904:48) a trip to jamaica with a true character of the people and island / by the author of sot's paradise. ward, edward, 1667-1731. 16 p. [s.n.], london : 1698. reproduction of original in huntington library. attributed to edward, ward. cf. bm. created by converting tcp files to tei p5 using tcp2tei.xsl, tei @ oxford. re-processed by university of nebraska-lincoln and northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. eebo-tcp is a partnership between the universities of michigan and oxford and the publisher proquest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by proquest via their early english books online (eebo) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). the general aim of eebo-tcp is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic english-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in eebo. eebo-tcp aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the text encoding initiative (http://www.tei-c.org). the eebo-tcp project was divided into two phases. the 25,363 texts created during phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 january 2015. anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source. users should be aware of the process of creating the tcp texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data. text selection was based on the new cambridge bibliography of english literature (ncbel). if an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in ncbel, then their works are eligible for inclusion. selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. in general, first editions of a works in english were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably latin and welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so. image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in oxford and michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet qa standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. after proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of tcp data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a tcp editor. the texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the tei in libraries guidelines. copies of the texts have been issued variously as sgml (tcp schema; ascii text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable xml (tcp schema; characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless xml (tei p5, characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or tei g elements). keying and markup guidelines are available at the text creation partnership web site . eng voyages and travels. jamaica. 2003-02 tcp assigned for keying and markup 2003-03 spi global keyed and coded from proquest page images 2003-04 john latta sampled and proofread 2003-04 john latta text and markup reviewed and edited 2003-06 pfs batch review (qc) and xml conversion a trip to jamaica : with a true character of the people and island . by the author of sot's paradise . the third edition . london , printed in the year , 1698. to the reader . the condition of an author is much like that of a strumpet , both exposing our reputations to supply our necessities , till at last we contract such an ill habit , thro' our practices , that we are equally troubl'd with an iteh to be alwas doing ; and if the reason be requir'd , why we betake our selves to so scandalous a profession as whoring or pamphleteering , the same excvsive answer will serve us both , viz. that the unhappy circumstances of a narrow fortune , hath forc'd us to do that for our subsistance , which we are much asham'd of . the chiefest and most commendable tallent , admir'd in either , is the knack of pleasing ; and he or she amongst us that happily arives to a perfection in that sort of witchcraft , may in a little time ( to their great honour ) enjoy the pleasure of being celebrated by all the coxcombs in the nation . the only difference between us is , in this perticular , where in the jilt has the advantage , we do our business first , and stand to the courtesie of our benefactors to reward us after ; whilst the other , for her security , makes her rider pay for his journey , before he mounts the saddle . it is necessary i should say something in relation to the following matter : i do not therein present you with a formal journal of my voyage , or geographical description of the island of jamaica , for that has been already done by persons better quallifi'd for such a task . i only entertain you with what i intend for your diversion , not instruction ; digested into such a stile as might move your laughter , not merit your esteem . i quistion not but the jamaica coffee-house will be much affronted at my character of their sweeting chaos , and if i was but as well assur'd of pleasing every body else , as i am of displeasing those who have an interest in that country , i should not question but the printer would gain his end , which are the wishes of the author . a trip to jamaica : in the times of adversity when poverty was held no shame and piety no virtue ; when honesty in a tradesman's conscience , and money in his counting-house were as scarce as health in an hospital , or charity in a clergyman . the sword being advanc'd , and the pen silenc'd ; printers being too poor to pay down copy-money , and authors too poor to trust 'em : fools getting more by hazarding their carcasses , than ingenious men by imploying their wits ; which was well enough observ'd by a gentleman , in these following lines . when pens were valu'd less than swords , and blows got money more than words ; when am'rous beaux , and campaign bully , thriv'd by their fighting and their folly ; whilst men of parts , as poar as rats , with mourning swords and flapping hats , appear by night , like owles and bats : with hungry hast pursuing way , to sir john lend , or ' squire pay. till wit in rags , and fool in feather , were joyn'd , by providence , together . the one o'er bottle breaks his iest , like country parson at a feast ; for which he 's treated and exalted , by his dear friend , sir looby dolthead . vnhappy age , which so in vice surpasses , that men of worth must worship golden asses . i being influenc'd by my stars , with an unhappy propensity to the conversation of those unlucky kind of fortune-hunters , till at last , tho' i had no more wit to boast of than another man , yet i shar'd the fate of those that had ; and to bear them company , stragled so far from the paths of profit and preferment , into a wilderness of pleasure and enjoyment , that i had like to have been stuck fast in a thicket of brambles , before i knew were abouts i was ; to clear my self of which , i bustled like a fox in a gin , or a hare in a patridge-net : but before i could free my self from this entanglement , i had so wounded my feet , and stuck so many thorns in my side , that i halted homewards like a gouty puritan to an election , or a lame begger to a misers funeral . these little afflictions mov'd me to reflect upon my mis-pent time ; and like a thief in a goal , or a whore in a flux , i resolv'd for the future to reform my life , change my measures , and push my self upon something that might recover those lost moments , i had hitherto converted to the use of others , and not my self . i now began to peep into the business of the world , and chang'd the company of those who had nothing to do but spend money , for the conversation of such whose practice was to get it . but i , thro' inadvertency , neglecting to consult doctor troter , or some other infallible predicting wisaker , began my reformation in an unfortunate minute , when vserers were unbinding their fetter'd trunks , and breaking up their deified bags and consecrated sums , for the security of religion , and the further establishment of liberty of conscience , without which [ liberty ] join'd , conscience to them would be of no use . tradesmen grumbling at the taxes , merchants at their losses , most men complaining for want of business , and all men in business , for want of money : every man upon change looking with as peevish a countenance , as if he had unluckily stumbled upon his wife's failings , and unhappily become a witness to his own cuckoldome . these i thought but slender encouragments to a new reformist , who had forsaken liberty for restraint , ease for trouble laziness for industry , wine for coffee , and the pleasures of witty conversation , for the plagues of a muddy-brain'd society , who could talk of nothing but prime cost and profit , the good humour of their wives , the wittiness of their children , and the vnluckiness of their prentices ; and knew no more how handsomly to spend their money , than honestly to get it . the complaints of these philodenarians , the declination of trade , and the scarcity of money , gave me no more hopes of mending my condition , by pursuing my intended measures , than a good husband has of mending a bad wife by winking at her vices . i now found my self in great danger of a relaps , to prevent which , after two or three gallons of derby-ale had one day sent my wits a woollgathering , and generated as many maggots in my brains , as there are crotchets in the head of a musician , or fools in the million lottery , i e'en took up a resolution to travel , and court the blinking gipsy fortune in another country . i then began to consider what climate might best suit with my constitution , and what part of the world with my circumstances ; and upon mature deliberation , found a warm latitude would best agree with thin apparel , and a money'd country with a narrow fortune ; and having often heard such extravagant encomiums of that blessed paradise iamaica , where gold is more plentiful than ice , silver than snow , pearl than hailstones , i at last determin'd to make a trial of my stars in that island , and see whether they had the same unlucky influence upon me there , as they had , hitherto , in the land of my nativity . in order to proceed my voyage , i took a passage in the good ship the andalucia ; and about the latterend of ianuary , 1697. upon the dissolution of the hard frost , i passed , with many others , by the night tide , in a wherry , to gravesend , where our floating receptacle lay ready to take in goods and passengers ; but our lady thames being put into a passion , by the rude kisses of an easterly wind , drew her smooth face into so many wrinckles , that her ill-favour'd aspect and murmurings , were to me as terrible as the noise of thieves to a miser , or bailiffs to a bankrupt ; and being pent up with my limbs , in an awkward posture , lying heads and tails , like essex calves in a rumford waggon , i was forc'd to endure the insolence of every wave , till i was become as wet as a new pump'd kidnapper . in this condition i embark'd about two a clock in the morning , where the chief mai t , as master of the ceremonies , conducted me to a wellcome collation of cheese and bisket , and presented me with a magnificent can of soveraign flip , prepar'd with as much art as an appothecary can well shew in the mixing of a cordial . after this refreshment , i betook my self to a cabin , which fitted me so well , it sat as tite as a iacket to a dutchman , where i slep till morning , as close as a snaile in a shell , or a maggot in an appel-kernel . then rising , and after i had survey'd our wooden teretories , i began to contemplate upon things worthy of a serious consideration , which stir'd up in me that malignant spirit of poetry , with which i am oft times unhappily possess'd : and what my muse dictated to me , her emanuensis , i here present unto the reader . a farewell to england . i. farewell my country , and my friends , my mistres , and my muse , in distant regions , diff'rent ends my genious now pursues . those blessings which i held most dear , are , by my stubborn destiny , ( that uncontroul'd necessity ) abandon'd from me , and no more appear . ii. despair of fortune makes me bold , i can in tempests sleep , and fearless of my fate , behold the dangers of the deep . no covetous desire of life , can now my careless thoughts imploy , banish'd from friendship , love , and ioy , to view the waves and winds at equal strife . iii. o'er threatning billows can i fly , and , unconcern'd , conceive , 't is here less difficult to die , than 't was on land to live. to me 't is equal , swim or sink , i smiling to my fate can bow , bereft of ioy , i think it now no more to drown than 't was before to drink . iv. dear friends with patience bear the load of troubles , still to come , you pitty us who range abroad , we pitty you at home . let no oppression , fears , or cares make us our loyalty disband , which , like a well built arch , should stand the more secure , the greater weight it bears . v. farewell applause , that vain delight the witty fondly seek ; he 's blest who like a dunce may write , or like a fool may speak : what ever praise we gain to day , whether deservedly or no , we to the worlds opinion owe , who does as oft mis-take the same away . vi. something there is , which touches near , i scarce can bid adieu ; 't is all my hope , my care , my fear , and all that i pursue : 't is what i love , yet what i fly , but what i dare not , must not name , angels protect the sacred frame , till i to england shall return , or die. towards the evening the captain came on board , with the rest of our fellow-travellours , who , when we were altogether patch'd up as pritty a society , as a man under my circumstances would desire to tumble into : there was three of the troublesome sex , as some call them , ( tho' i never thought 'em so ) whose curteous affabillity , and complaisancy of temper , admitted of no other emulation , but to strive who ( within the bounds of modesty ) should be most obliging . one vnfortunate lady was in pursute of a stray'd husband , who , in iamaica , had feloniously taken to wife ( for the sake of a plantation ) a lacker-fac'd creolean , to the great dissatisfaction of his original spouse , who had often declar'd ( thro' the sweetness of her disposition ) that if he had marri'd another handsomer than her self , it would never have vex'd her ; but to be rival'd by a gipsy , a tawny fac'd moletto strumpet , a pumpkin colour'd whore , no , her honour would not suffer her to bear with patience so coroding an indignity . the other two were a pritty maid , and a comly widow ; so that in these three , we had every honourable state of the whole sex : one in the state of innocency , another of fruition , the third of deprivation ; and if we 'd had but one in the state of corruption , a man might have pleas'd himself as well in our little world , as you libertines can do in the great one. i shall be too tedious if i at large particularize the whole company , i shall therefore hustle them together , as a morefields sweetener does luck in a bag , and then you may wink and choose , for the devil a barrel the better herring amongst us . we had one ( as i told you before ) cherubimical lass , who , i fear , had lost her self , two more , of the same gender , who had lost their husbands ; two parsons who had lost their livings ; three broken tradesmen , who had lost their credit ; and several , like me that had lost their wits ; a creolean captain , a super annuated mariner , an independant merchant , an irish kidnapper , and a monmothean sciths-man , all going with one design , to patch up their decay'd fortunes . every thing being in order for sailing , the pilot came on board , who put on such a commanding countenance , that he look'd as stern as a sarazins head ; and the sins of his youth having crep't into his pedestals , he limp'd about the quarter deck ; like a cripple in forma pauperis upon a mountebanks stage , making as great a noise in his tarpaulin cant , as a young counsel in a bad cause , or a butcher at a bear-garden . as soon as we had weigh'd anchor , under the doleful cry and hard service of haul cat haul , there was nothing heard till we reach'd the downs , but about ship my lads , bring your fore tack on board , haul fore-sail hand , brace about the main-yard , and the devil to do , that i was more amaz'd than a mouse at a throsters mill , or the russian embassador at a clap of thunder . by the help of providence , the pilots care , and seamens industry , we pass'd safe to deal , where we anchor'd three or four days for a fair wind. in which interim , the prince of the air had puff'd up an unwelcome blast in the night , which forc'd a vessel upon the goodwin . the next morning the salvages man'd out a fleet of their deal skimming-dishes , and made such unmerciful work with the poor distressed bark , that a gang of bailiffs with an execution , or a kennel of hounds upon a dead horse , could not have appear'd more ravenous . from thence , with a prosperous gale , we made the best of our way into the wide ocean , which marriners say , is of such profundity , that , like a misers conscience , or a womans concupiscence 't is never to be fathom'd . 't was in the midst of winter , and very cold weather when we set out ; but in a fortnights time we were got into a comfortable climat , which yielded us so pleasant a warmth , than a man might pluck of his shirt upon deck , and commit murther upon his own flesh and blood till he was weary , without the danger of an ague . i happen'd one morning to hear two tar-jackets in a very high dispute ; i went to them , and ask'd the reason of their difference . why sir , says one , i 'll tell you , there was my master whistlebooby , an old boatswain in one of his majesties ships , who was superhanded , and past his labour , and the ambaraltie divorc'd him from his ship , and the king allow'd him a suspension , and this lubberly whelp here says i talk like a fool ; and sure i have not used the sea this thirty years , but i can argufie any thing as proper as he can . the chief sports we had on board , to pass away the tedious hours , were hob , spie the market , shoue the slipper , dilly dally and back-gammon ; the latter of which prov'd as serviceable to me , as a book of heraldry to a gentleman mumper , or a pass to a penniless vagabond : for ( like the whore who boasted of her industry ) i us'd to make my days labour worth two shillings , or half a crown , at two pence , or a groat a bout. the most powerful adversary i engag'd with , was a parson , who , when the bell rung to prayers , would start up in the middle of a hit , desire my patience whilst he step'd into the great cabin , and gave his sinful congregation a dram of evangellical comfort , and he would wait upon me presently . but that recreation in which we took a more peculiar delight , was the harmony we made , by the assistance of the two heaven-drivers , in lyricking over some antiquated sonnets , and for varieties sake , now and then a psalme , which our canonical vice-whippers sung with as penitential a grace , as a sorrowful offender in his last night-cap . to please my self at a spare-hour , i had taken with me a flute , and there being on board a spannel dog , who ( seaman like ) had no great kindness for wind musick , for when ever he heard me tooting , he 'd be howling , which , together , made a noise so surprising , that it frighted away a quotide●n ague , from a young fellow who had been three weeks under the hands of our doctor . one night , after we had well moisten'd our drouthy carcasses with an exhilerating dose of right honourable punch , there arose a storm , for which i had often wish'd , that i might not be a stranger to any surprising accident the angry elements , when at varience , might afford me . the heavens all round us ( in as little time as a girl might loose her maidenhead ) had put on such a malignant aspect , as if it threaten'd our destruction ; and aeolus gave us such unmerciful puffs and whiffs , that i was fearful to stand upon the quarter deck , lest , before my time , i should be snatch'd up to heaven in a whirle-wind . from all the corners of the skie their darted forth such beams of lightning , that i vow and protest the fire-works in st. iames's square , were no more to be compar'd to 't , than a gloworms arse to a cotten candle , which were instantly succeeded with such vollys of thunder , from every side , that you would have thought the clouds had been fortifi'd with whole canon , and weary of being tost about with every wind , were fighting their way into a calmer region to enjoy their rest. then fell such an excessive rain , that as we had one sea under us , we feard another had been tumbling upon our heads ; for my part , i fear'd the very falling of the skie , and thought of nothing but catching of larks . my spirits being a little deprest , by the apprehensions of the danger we were under , i went down into the gun-room ; to consult my brandy-cask about taking of a dram ; where one of our ladies , thro' want of better accomodation , was forc'd to be content with a cradle , in which she was praying , with as much sincerity , for fair weather , as a farmer for a kind harvest , or an old maid for a good husband : and i being greatly pleas'd at her most importunat solicitations , have given you a repetition of one part , viz. and if thou hast decreed , that we shall perish in this tempest , i most humbly beseech thee to punish with pox , barrenness , and dry-belly-ach , that adultrous strumpet , who , by robbing me of my husband , hath been a means of bringing me to this vntimely end ; may her whole life be a continued course of sin without a moments repentance , that she may die without forgiveness , and be damn'd without mercy . in which interim , a sea wash'd over our fore-castle , run aft , and came down the whip-scuttle , she concluding we were going to the bottom , shreek'd out , and fell into a fit ; whilst i , thro my fear , together with my modesty , scorn'd to take the advantage of so fair an oppertunity . in a doubtful condition , between this world and the next , we labour'd till near morning , about which time the storm abated ; but as soon as day-light appear'd , and the serenity of the weather had turn'd our frightful apprehensions into a little alacrity , some of the men , from aloft , espi'd a sail bearing after us with all expedition ; and being no great distance from the coast of sally , a jealousie arose amongst our officers , of her being a man of war belonging to that country , they having , upon the conclusion of the late peace with france , proclaim'd a war with england ; so that we thought our selves now in as great danger of being knock'd on the head , or made slaves , as we were before of being drown'd . this alarum kindled up amongst us new fears of approaching danger , more terrible than the former we had so happily surviv'd . command was given by our captain , to prepare for a fight ; down chests ; up hammocks , ●●ing the small arms upon the quarter and every man directed to his post , by orders fix'd upon the mizzen-mast in the steerage ; the bulkhead and cabins nock'd down , the deck clear'd fore and aft , for every man to have free access to his business . when all things were in readiness to receive an enemy , i took a walk on purpose to look about me , and was so animated with the seamens activity and industry , together with the smell of sweat , match , and gun-powder , that like ' squire witherington in chivie chase , i could have fought upon my stumps . by this time our suppos'd enemy was almost come up with us , under english colours , but his keeping close upon our quarter , and not bearing off , gave us still reasons to mistrust him ; but seeing him a small ship , and ours a vessel of 400 tuns , 28 guns , and about 50 men , we furl'd our main-sail with all our hands at once , as a strategem to seem well man'd ; put our top-sailes aback , and lay by , to let 'em see we were no more affraid than hurt . we had on board an irish-man going over a servant , who i suppose was kidnap'd ; i observ'd this fellow , being quarter'd at a gun , look'd as pale as a pickpocket new taken : i ask'd him why he put on such a cowardly look ; and told him 't was a shame for a man to shew so much fear in his countenance . indeed sir ( said he ) i cannot halp et , i love the bate of a drum , the pop of a pistol , or the bounch of a mushket wall enough , but , by my shoul , the roaring of a great gun always makesh me start . i ask'd him whose servant he was . by my fait , said he , i cannot tell ; i wash upon change looking for a good mashter , and a brave gentleman came to me and ask'd me who i wash ; and i told him i wash myn nown shelf , and he gave me some good wine and good ale , and brought me on board , and i have not sheen him sinch . by this time our adversary was come within hearing , and upon our hailing of him , prov'd a little ship bound to guinea , which put an end to our fears , and made us fly to the punch-bowl with as much joy as the mob to a bonfire upon a states holyday . after we had chas'd away the remembrance of our past dangers , with a reviving draught of our infallable elixir , we began to be merry as so many beggars ( and indeed were before as poor ) beginning to turn that into redicule , which so lately had chang'd our jollitry into fear and sadness . when we had thus refresh'd our bodies , and strengthen'd our spirits , by passing round a health to our noble selves , &c. 't was thought high time by our reverend pastors , to return thanks for our great deliverance from the hands of our enemies , tho' we had none near us , which was accordingly perform'd with all the solemnity a parcel of merry iuvenal wags could compose themselves to observe . by this time we were got into so warm a latitude , that ( god be thanked ) a louse would not live in it . we now began to thin our dress , and , had not decency forbid it , could have gladly gone naked , as our first parents . kissing here grew out of fashion ; there 's no joyning of lips , but your noses would drop sweat in your mouths . the sea , and other elements , began now to entertain us with curiossities in nature worth observing , as crampos , sharks , porpus , flying-fish , albacores , bonettas , dolphin , bottlenoses , turtle , blubber , stingrays , sea-adders , and the devil and all of monsters without names , and some without shape . as for birds , noddys , boobies , shearwaters , shags , pitternells , men of war , tropick birds , pellicans , &c. i shall not undertake here to describe these creatures , because some of them are so frightfully ugly , that if any friends wife with child should long for the reading of my book , it should chance to make her miscarry . but that which i thought most worthy of observation , were the clouds , whose various forms , and beauteous colours , were inimitable by the pencil of the greatest artist in the univers , cities , palaces , groves , fields , and gardens ; monuments , castles , armies , bulls , bears , and dragons , &c. as if the air above us had been frozen into a looking-glass , and shew'd us by reflection , all the rarities in nature . by this time we had gain'd the tropick , and come into a trade-wind ; the greatist of our fears being now a calm , which is fine weather to please fearful tempers ; but it brings us more in danger of being starv'd , than a storm does of being drown'd : tho' it was our fortune in a few days after , to make the leward-islands , and put us past the dread of so terrible a catastrophe , those we pas'd in sight of were , des●ado , a rare place for a bird-catcher to be governour of , birds being the only creatures by which 't is inhabited ; mountserat , antego , mevis , possess'd by the english ; st. christophers , by half english half french ; rodunda , an uninhabitable high rock . from amongst these caribbe islands , in a few days , we got to hispaniola , without any thing remarkable ; and from thence , in 24 hours , with a fresh gail , within sight of iamaica , which ( without malice or partiallity ) i shall proceed to give you some account of . a charactor of jamaica . the dunghill of the universe , the refuse of the whole creation , the clippings of the elements , a shapeless pile of rubbish confus'ly jumbl'd into an emblem of the chaos , neglected by omnipotence when he form'd the world into its admirable order . the nursery of heavens judgments , where the malignant seeds of all pestilence were first gather'd and scatter'd thro' the regions of the earth , to punnish mankind for their offences . the place where pandora fill'd her box , where vulcan forg'd ioves thunder-bolts , and that phaeton , by his rash misguidance of the sun , scorch'd into a cinder . the receptacle of vagabonds , the sanctuary of bankrupts , and a close-stool for the purges of our prisons . as sickly as an hospital , as dangerous as the plague , as hot as hell , and as wicked as the devil . subject to turnadoes , hurricans , and earthquakes , as if the island , like the people , were troubled with the dry belly-ach . of their provisions . the chiefest of their provisions is sea turtle , or toad in a shell , stew'd in its own gravy ; its lean is as white as a green-sickness girl , its fat of a calves-turd colour ; and is excellently good to put a stranger into a flux , and purge out part of those in humours it infallibly creates . the belly is call'd callipee , the back callipach ; and is serv'd up to the table in its own shell , instead of a platter . they have cuanas , hickeries , and crabs ; the first being an amphibeous serpent , shap'd like a lizard , but black and larger , the second a land-tortoise , the last needs no discription , but are as numerous as frogs in england , and borrough in the ground like rabbets , so that the whole island may be justly call'd , a crab-warren . they are fattest near the pallasadoes , where they will make a skelliton of a corps in as little time as a tanner will flea a colt , or a hound after hunting devour a shoulder of mutton . they have beef without fat , lean mutton without gravy , and fowles as dry as the udder of an old woman , and as tough as a stake from the haunches of a superanuated car-horse . milk is so plenty you may buy it for fifteen pence a quart ; but cream so very scarce , that a firkin of butter , of their own making , would be so costly a jewel , that the richest man in the island would be unable to purchase it . they value themselves greatly upon the sweetness of their pork , which is indeed lushious , but as flabby as the flesh of one just risen from a flux , and ought to be forbid in all hot countries ( as amongst the iews ) for the prevention of leprosie , scurvy , and other distempers , of which it is a great occasion . there is very little veal , and that lean ; for in england you may nurse four children much cheaper than you can one calf in iamaica . they have course teal , almost as big as english ducks ; and moscovy ducks as big as geese ; but as for their geese , they may be all swans , for i never see one in the island . there are sundry sorts of fish , under indian names , without scales , and of a serpentine complection ; they eate as dry as a shad , and much stronger than stale herrings or old ling ; with oyl'd butter to the sause as rank as goose-grease , improv'd with the palatable relish of a stinking anchove . they make a rare soop they call pepper-pot ; it s an excellent breakfast for a salamander , or a good preparative for a mountebanks agent , who eats fire one day , that he may get better victuals the next . three spoonfuls so inflam'd my mouth , that had i devour'd a peck of horse-radish , and drank after it a gallon of brandy and gunpouder , ( dives like ) i could not have been more importunate for a drop of water to coole my tongue . they greatly abound in a beautiful fruit , call'd , a cussue , not unlike an apple , but longer ; its soft and very juicy , but so great an acid , and of a nature so restringent , that by eating of one , it drew up my mouth like a hens fundament , and made my palate as rough , and tongue as sore as if i had been gargling it with alum-water : from whence i conjecture , they are a much fitter fruit to recover lost maidenbeads , properly apply'd , than to be eaten . of water-mellons and mus-mellons they have plenty ; the former is of as cold a quality as a coucumer , and will dissolve in your mouth like ice in a hot frying-pan , being as pleasant to the eater ( and , i believe , as wholsom ) as a cup of rock-water to a man in a hectick feavour : the latter are larg and lushious , but much too watery to be good . coco-nuts , and physick-nuts are in great esteem amongst the inhabitants ; the former they reckon meat , drink , and cloth , but the eatable part is secur'd within so strong a magazeen , that it requires a lusty carpenter , well arm'd with ax and hand-saw , to hew a passage to the kernel , and when he has done , it will not recompence his labour . the latter is big as a filbert , but ( like a beautiful woman well drest , and infectious ) if you venture to tast , is of ill consequence : their shell is black , and iapan'd by nature , exceeding art ; the kernel white , and extream pleasant to the palat , but of so powerful an operation , that by taking two , my guts were swep as clean , as ever tom-t — d-man made a vault , or any of the black fraternity a chimney . they have oranges , lemons , limes , and several other fruits , as sharp and crabbed as themselves , not given them as a blessing , but a curse ; for eating so many sower things , generates a corroding slime in the bowels , and is one great occasion of that fatal and intolerable distemper , the dry belly-ach ; which in a fortnight , or three weeks , takes away the use of their limbs , that they are forc'd to be led about by negro's . a man under this misery , may be said to be the scutchion of the island , the complection of the patient being the field , bearing of , charg'd with all the emblems of destruction , proper ; supported by two devils , sable ; and death the crest , argent . many other fruits there are , that are neither worth eating , naming , or describing : some that are never tasted but in a drouth , and others in a famin. of port royal. it is an island distinct from the main of iamaica , tho' before the earthquake , it joyn'd by a neck of land to the palisados , but was seperated by the violence of an inundation ( thro' god's mercy ) to prevent the wickedness of their metropolis defusing it self , by communication , over all the parts of the country , and so call that judgment upon the whole , which fell more perticularly upon the sinfulest part . from a spaceous fine built town ( according to report ) it is now reduc'd , by the encroachments of the sea , to a little above a quarter of a mile in length , and about half so much the breadth , having so few remains left of its former splendour , i could think no otherwise , but that every travellour who had given its description , made large use of his license . the houses are low , little , and irregular ; and if i compare the best of their streets in port royal , to the fag-end of kent-street , where the broom-men live , i do them more than justice . about ten a clock in the morning , their nostills are saluted with a land-breeze , which blowing o'er the island , searches the bowels of the mountains ( being always crack'd and full of vents , by reason of excessive heat ) bringing along with it such sulphorous vapours , that i have fear'd the whole island would have burst out into a flaming aetna , or have stiffled us with suffocating fumes , like that of melted minerals and brimstone . in the afternoon , about four a clock , they might have the refreshment of a sea-breeze , but suffering the negros to carry all their nastiness to windward of the town , that the nauseous efluvias which arise from their stinking dunghills , are blown in upon them thus what they might enjoy is a blessing , they ingratefully pervert by their own 〈…〉 . they have a church 't is true , but built rather like a market-house ; and when the flock are in their pens , and the pastor exalted to over-look his sheep , i took a survey round me , and saw more variety of scare-crows than ever was seen at the feast of vgly-faces . every thing is very dear , and an ingenious or an honest man may meet with this encouragement , to spend a hundred pounds before he shall get a penny. medera-wine and bottle-beer are fifteen pence the bottle ; nasty clarrat , half a crown ; rennish , five shillings ; and their best canary , ten bits , or six and three pence . they have this pleasure in drinking , that what they put into their bellies , they may soon stroak out of their fingers ends ; for instead of exonerating they fart , and sweat instead of pissing . of the people . the generality of the men look as if they had just nock'd off their fetters , and by an unexpected providence , escap'd the danger of a near misfortune , the dread of which , hath imprinted that in their looks , which they can no more alter than an etheopian can his colour . they are all colonels , majors , captains , lieutenants , and ensigns , the two last being held in such disdain , that they are look'd upon as a bungling diver amongst a gang of expert pick-pockets 〈…〉 being 〈…〉 . they regard nothing but money , 〈…〉 not how they got it , there being no other felicity to be enjoy'd but purely riches . they are very civil to strangers who bring over considerable effects ; and will try a great many ways to kill him farely , for the lucre of his cargo : and many have been made rich by such windfalls . a broken apothecary will make there a topping physician ; a barbers prentice , a good surgeon ; a bailiffs follower , a passable lawyer , and an english knave , a very honest fellow . they have so great a veneration for religion , that bibles and common prayer books are as good a commodity amongst them , as muffs and warming-pans . a little reputation among the women , goes a great way ; and if their actions be answerable to their looks , they may vie wickedness with the devil : an impudent air , being the only charms of their countenance , and a lewd carriage , the studi'd grace of their deportment . they are such wh● have been scandalous in england to the utmost degre , either transported by the state , or led by their vicious inclinations , where they may be wicked without shame , and whore on without punishment . they are stigmatiz'd with nick-names , which they bear , not with patien 〈…〉 ly , but with pride , as vnconscionable 〈◊〉 , salt-beef peg , buttock de 〈◊〉 ienny , &c. swearing , drinking , and obscene talk are the principal qualifications that render them acceptable to male conversation , and she that 〈◊〉 a perfection in these admirable acquirments , shall be as much redicul'd for her modesty , as a plain-dealing man amongst a gang of knaves , for his honesty . in short , virtue is so despis'd , and all sorts of vice encourag'd , by both sexes , that the town of port royal is the very sodom of the universe . finis . jamaica viewed with all the ports, harbours, and their several soundings, towns, and settlements thereunto belonging together, with the nature of it's climate, fruitfulnesse of the soile, and its suitableness to english complexions. with several other collateral observations and reflexions upon the island. / by e.h. hickeringill, edmund, 1631-1708. 1661 approx. 83 kb of xml-encoded text transcribed from 54 1-bit group-iv tiff page images. text creation partnership, ann arbor, mi ; oxford (uk) : 2009-10 (eebo-tcp phase 1). a86321 wing h1817 thomason e2267_1 estc r203343 99863318 99863318 170586 this keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the early english books online text creation partnership. this phase i text is available for reuse, according to the terms of creative commons 0 1.0 universal . the text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. early english books online. (eebo-tcp ; phase 1, no. a86321) transcribed from: (early english books online ; image set 170586) images scanned from microfilm: (thomason tracts ; 244:e2267[1]) jamaica viewed with all the ports, harbours, and their several soundings, towns, and settlements thereunto belonging together, with the nature of it's climate, fruitfulnesse of the soile, and its suitableness to english complexions. with several other collateral observations and reflexions upon the island. / by e.h. hickeringill, edmund, 1631-1708. the second edition. [14], 87, [1] p., [1] leaf of plates : map printed for iohn williams, at the crown in st. paul's church-yard, london : 1661. partially in verse. e.h. = edmund hickeringill. reproduction of the original in the british library. created by converting tcp files to tei p5 using tcp2tei.xsl, tei @ oxford. re-processed by university of nebraska-lincoln and northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. eebo-tcp is a partnership between the universities of michigan and oxford and the publisher proquest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by proquest via their early english books online (eebo) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). the general aim of eebo-tcp is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic english-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in eebo. eebo-tcp aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the text encoding initiative (http://www.tei-c.org). the eebo-tcp project was divided into two phases. the 25,363 texts created during phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 january 2015. anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source. users should be aware of the process of creating the tcp texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data. text selection was based on the new cambridge bibliography of english literature (ncbel). if an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in ncbel, then their works are eligible for inclusion. selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. in general, first editions of a works in english were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably latin and welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so. image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in oxford and michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet qa standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. after proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of tcp data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a tcp editor. the texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the tei in libraries guidelines. copies of the texts have been issued variously as sgml (tcp schema; ascii text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable xml (tcp schema; characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless xml (tei p5, characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or tei g elements). keying and markup guidelines are available at the text creation partnership web site . eng jamaica -description and travel -early works to 1800. 2008-09 tcp assigned for keying and markup 2008-11 spi global keyed and coded from proquest page images 2008-12 john pas sampled and proofread 2008-12 john pas text and markup reviewed and edited 2009-02 pfs batch review (qc) and xml conversion jamaica viewed : with all the ports , harbours , and their several soundings , towns , and settlements thereunto belonging together , with the nature of it's climate , fruitfulnesse of the soile , and it's suitablenesse to english complexions . with several other collateral observations and reflexions upon the island . the second edition . by e. h. london , printed for iohn williams , at the crown in st. paul's church-yard , 1661. to the king's most excellent majesty . may it please your majesty , all your dominions , being the happy subjects of your care , are therefore , the proper objects of your view : if in the throng then , jamaica here humbly presents her self to your royal presence , be pleased to interpret this her obsequiousnesse to be duty , not intrusion . for since your majesty has already graciously daign'd this isle your royal patronage , vouchsafe , great sir , at some vacant houre to grace it with your auspicious aspect , in this mirrour , with all humility presented by your majesty's faithfully devoted servant , edm. hickeringill . to the reader . the partiall censures & nick-names which prejudice and interest have injuriously impos'd upon the island of jamaica , ( after it became the refuge of that english colony that of late unhappily invaded hispaniola ) mov'd me , in the negligence of better pens , to apologize for it , in this ensuing description ; for indeed to describe jamaica , is to praise it ; nor can it look better then with it 's own face , exempt from the adulterate fucus of artificial piliary : and believe me , reader , 't was no private nor politick designe , ( hereby to allure and duccoy the unwary world ) but mere zeale to truth , that engag'd me by my opportune continuance there , to do this right to that injur'd island . quid dem ? quid non dem ? renuis tu quod jubet alter . hor. to my honoured friend . capt. edm. hickeringill ; upon his reflexions on iamaica : at his return . this welcome-home , how blunt so e're it be , thou vvilt accept , dear mun , coming from me : and deign it to attend thy smoother line , mine's honour'd with an handmaid's place to thine : and though thou knovv'st , thou had'st my heart before , methinks i love thee for this book the more , which i vvould preface vvith applauses fit , ( praising therein my iudgement , and thy vvit ) but that thou dost detest bespoken bayes . yet truth compells me to prefix this praise , that as thy pregnant lines now life doth give unto jamaica ; here long shall it live : and this epitomiz'd vrn shall retain the indies memory vvhen they 're dead again . observ . amicitiae ergo composuit g. e. med. d. map of jamaica jamaica jamaica viewed . that the island of iamaica was rather the grave then granary to the first english colony ( seated there , after their inauspicious enterprize , upon hispaniola ) cannot modestly be denied ; whether occasioned by the griping monopolie of some hoarding officers ; or through want of timely recruits , alwayes found necessary for such infant-settlements : or , through some fatal conjunction of the superiour luminaties , ( that frown by course with a squint and malignant aspects on one nation or other , ) i will not now dispute . but that such a mortality should proceed , either from the clime , being scituate in the torrid zone , ( a heresie unpardonable in the ancients ; ) or from any accidental malignitie in any of the elements , peculiarly entail'd upon it , whereby it should be lesse habitable then any other most auspicious settlement remains here to be controverted . the decision whereof can be no better evidenced , then by a faithfull description , of the nature of the clime , and soile . 1. first therefore , it 's climate is placed betwixt the tropicks , in 17 and 18. degrees of northern latitude ; and therefore twice every year subjected to the perpendicular beams of the sun , whence it borrowed the style of torrid zone ; a name which did so bugbear and affright the credulity of our ancestors , that they unjustly exil'd and raz'd it out from the habitable part of the world , ( then monopoliz'd in the temperate zones ) till the more daring spirits of columbus , and others , convoy'd us to an experimental confidence in the contrary ; the chariby islands , barbadoes , st. kits , mevis , antego , &c. having prov'd as happy to the complexions and constitutions of english men ; as virginia , new england ; nay as portugal , spain , italy , or any other confines upon the mediterranean sea , all which notwithstanding , are scituate in the temperate zone ; a term of art that now ironically scandalizes that vulgar division of the world into zones habitable , ( the temperate zones ; ) and inhabitable , the ( frigid , and torrid zone . ) for i must avouch that i have found the air as sulphurous and hot in england , in the moneths of iune , iuly , and august , especially whilest the sun was near the meridian , as in the hottest seasons at iamaica , whilest the sun makes a double in cancer ) or in guiana , in the moneths of march , and september ; whilest the sun gallops or'e their zenith in the aequinox . and this will appear to be no such prodigious a paradox , if we be undeceived of that vulgar errour , that the neighbourhood of the sun is the only cause of extream heat , and it's elongation the reason of extremity of cold : for if so , our summers would be equally hot one year , as another , and each day ( after the sun's departure from the winter solstice ) hotter then another , 'till he had posted over his halfdirect stages to face about in retrograde cancer ) both which experience doth disprove ; for though his appropriation and elongation be the same every year , yet our summers and winters are not equally hot and cold , and therefore we must seek out for more intrinsecal and occult causes ; which now ( are not the asylum of ignorance ) since we can certainly ascribe them to the sun's conjunction ( improperly termed an aspect ) and his aspects with other planets , together with his configurations , with the fixed starres : for the weather is usually the hottest with us in england , after the sun hath taken his leave of us from his nearest visit , and most fervent complement , in the foot of gemini , with his old fashion'd congee in the right knee and shoulder of orion , and auriga : and our hottest seasons are the dogge dayes ; yet doth not the sun accompany the lesser heavenly dogge , till he come to his feminine nocturnal and unfortunate lodging , which is in the eighteenth degree of cancer ; of which more at large you may consult astronomy ; my business here being only to present you with an historical truth . and as the coldnesse of our night-air in england tempers our hottest and most canine seasons ; so the fresh breezes that rise alwayes with the sun , doe fanne the sweltering and sultry climes within the tropicks : so that the dayes are usually as cold as the nights , except towards the morning , and then a culinary fire is had in request , though the inhabitants are thought to be dandled in apollo's lap , or ( as the poets feign ) to have been scorch'd , when rash phaeton mistook his way , in his unskill'd and unhappy journey , — magnae pereunt cum moenibus urbes : cumque suis totas populis incendiae gentes in cinerem vertunt , sylvae cum montibus ardent , ardet aethos — quodque suo tagus omne vehit fluit igntbus aurum . ovid. met. l. 2. this scorch'd soil phaethon to cinders burn'd , when he his father's chariot overturn'd ; with hotter flames ( if fame we credit may ) then those he smutch't in aethiopia . but the native indians are sensible of no such extraordinary warmth ; alwayes making a fire under their hammocks , that the piercing air disturb not their sleep . and the english themselves that inhabit almost under the line in surinam , contemn not their coverlets in the night ; though indeed very few of them rest in beds , but hammocks , which do somewhat the more expose the body to the inquisition of the searching vapours . yet as the extremities of cold in these regions betwixt the tropicks are indisputably more remisse then in england , and the rest of europe ; so the heat qualified with the benefit of the breezes , more justly styles them temperate , then those climates that have already falsly , ( though with vulgar consent ) usurp'd the title . and i must not credit my senses , if i should not affirm , that upon an impartial compare , i never came in more temperate climes then those of iamaica , hispaniola , st. kits , barbadoes , &c. so slanderously calumniated ; the heat in the day time being alwayes alloy'd with the sea breezes ; and the nights , naturally cool , are by an interchangeable and never-failing intercourse , refreshed with land breezes ; and therefore authentically renowned ( by the lord verulam , and others , ) above barbary , spain , and italy ( though fam'd to be the world's garden ) as being neither so intemperately hot nor cold . though the lord bacon's arguments are only drawn from the dictates of his reason , neither back't nor reinforced with experience ; now sufficiently confirm'd by every mariner , to take off the greatest sit-fast of incredulity . and this shall suffice for our information touching the clime . secondly . the nature of the soil . 2. the fertility of the soil of this island may best be examined and appear by it's productions , wild and purely natural ; or , improved and artificial . first then . of the purely natural , or wild productions of this island . 1. with which , the soil is so pregnant and fertile , that nature hath stor'd it in no niggardly nor novercal benevolence , with oranges , lymes , ( or bastard lemmons , ) guavars , pomegranates , a kind of pepper , that tastes like cloves , and very aromatick ( known by the name of iamaica-pepper ) with innumerable kinds of several fruits that have scarcely found a name in english with which the woods are so universally crouded , that they are likewise incomparably stockt with abundance of wild hoggs , fat and large , that cannot but thrive well upon so bountiful commons , as falls from the trees in a very liberal contribution ; yet their ordinary is not so free , but that it sometimes costs them their lives ; their fat backs betraying their throats , to the no small advantage of the hunters , and the whole island . nor are the woods a more plentiful nursery for the hoggs then the savana's are for the beeves and wild cattel ; in some of which one thousand would graze in a drove , till the too greedy and repented eagernesse of felling them by gun shot , frighted them to the shelter of the woods and mountains ; from whence now they dare scarcely peep , except secur'd with the covert of the night , ( their now usual feeding-time in the savana's , ) and now but in smaller numbers . an inconvenience wisely prevented by the spaniard ( that lately inhabited , and first stockt the island ) who alwaies on horse-back singled out the beast he intended to kill , ( if so wild as not to come to his pen , amongst his tamer fellows ) and with a sharp iron in form of an half-moon , fastened to a staffe , hough'd him on both his hin-leggs ; afterwards dispatching him at his leisure . with which two singular advantages , for the raising and encrease of stock , ( either of swine in the woods , or beeves in the savana's or plains , ) is happy in iamaica above any other island or settlement ; ( whether upon the continent or islands of america ) at this day peopled by any english colony and plantation ; and will soon flourish above any other , if it want no due encouragement for the preservation and defence of the planters . every ship that comes from the wind ward islands of barbadoes , mevis , st. christophers , &c. being crouded above convenience with all sorts of people . for besides that the soil yields not to any of the chariby islands in the plentifull produce of sugar-canes , tabacco , cotton , maiz or indian corn , potatoes , yawmes , and the like american provisions : it hath three , or four singular and extraordinary advantages to enrich the planter . first : 1. by the speedy raising a stock of cattel , though from a very mean principle , and beginnings : a notable policy in the thriving spaniard upon hispaniola , and especially , on cuba , which is better peopled ; ) and 't is this : near some convenient place , in the wood , that is best stored with all sorts of fruit-bearing trees , as orange-trees , a sort of cabbage-trees , rag'd with berries , &c. they build two or three little houses , or more ; by them called a crawle , and in these , they first inclose these tame hogs , with which they begin their stock , and there feed them ; that after ( being let out ) they will come to the haunt , at the sound of a horn ; but if they be out of hearing , ( they many times suspending all care of them for a week together ) they goe out with three or four dogs , that hunt them in ; the whole herd makeing homewards so soon as ever the dogs do bay them ; unto which discipline , if any of the hogs be not conformable , his refractoriness cost's him his life ; his keeper ( for example sake ) scarcely indemnifying him for the first fault . thus two or three spanish slaves , ( for a native spaniard scorns the employ ) will look to six or seven hundred hogs , and provide them meat , not putting their masters to a penny charge . which course may as effectually be managed upon iamaica , in any part of the island ; unparallel'd by any other english settlement in the more vvind-ward islands . for a stock of sheep , cows , horses , goats , and the like , there is excellent pasture in the savana's ; some of them , fourty , some fifty miles in circumference , wherein the grasse springs fresh and green all the year long . the earth never recalling her lent sap ( as she does mock the europeans ) by giving and taking again , every moneth being an april ; the trees and plants being never disrobed of their phary-liveries , but wear their best clothes every day ; in which prodigality they are licenc'd and born out , by their indulgent parents , the sun and the earth ; these regions being their darlings , and ( to use sir rawleigh's stile ( the paradise of the world . in so much as here is plenty of food to relieve the planters cattel throughout the year , needing no winter hoard ; the providence of the ant being uselesse here . 2. another singular benefit to the planter , is the large numbers of wild horses , well shap'd and very serviceable , being all bred of the spanish gennets , one of these tam'd and well manag'd may be bought for three pounds sterl which would yield six thousand pounds of sugar at the barbadoes : of which special advantage , in easing the charge of making sugars , needs no dispute . 3. thirdly , the said savana's are common to every man that will make use of them ; for as they are good for little else : the woody ground producing the best provisions for a family , as corn , potatoes , plantanes , cassauder , sugar canes , &c. so seating your self upon the skirt of a savana , bordering upon a wood , you may with convenience enjoy the benefit of both . again , as you may stock these plains without limit ; so you may have fifty acres , per head , for your self and servants , freely assign'd and made over to you , in any place you best like to make your choice ; so that the seat , you pitch upon , be not first taken up by another ; whereas in st. kits , barbadoes , &c. you cannot turn a horse out but he presently trespasseth upon his neighbour , if not upon your own canes : the most barren rocks ( even in the scotland of barbadoes ) owning a proprietor , and the whole island pestered with a super-numerary glut of inhabitants ; too small a hive for such a swarm of people . lastly , i shall conclude the transcendency of this isle , by the abundant plenty of choice timber trees and wood for the dyer's use , as fustick , brasiletta , ebonies , and a kind of logwood ; ( but not so effectual as that which grows in the bay of campeachee ) together with choice of medicinal drugs , as china roots , gum vit-trees , cassia , &c. and thus much of the wild and purely natural productions of this happy soil . reddit ubi venerem tellus inarata quotannis : the virgin-earth's not barren here , but will unoccupy'd , fruit , bear . 2. general . second , of the improv'd productions of the isle . in the next place , the fruits of iamaica that are produc'd by the improvement of art , will most methodically present themselves to be considered ; wherein i shall purposely omit to give the reader any account of those usual houshold provisions , of cassawder , corn , potatoes , &c. nor of those merchantable commodities of cotton , indico , tobacco , sugar , &c. common to it with the rest of the english plantations ; but presuming the reader 's acquaintance with those fruits and merchandize so vulgarly known ; i shall only treat of those that are more rare and not to be found in any other of the english colonies in america . 1. the first that i shall mention is the cacoa . walks , which are not few in this island , some of them containing ten or twelve acres of ground , some more , some lesse : the trees are about the bignesse of our largest plum-trees in england , orderly set , like our orchards , at the distance of 6 , or 7. foot from each other ; which interstitiums are carefully weeded , and cleared from the grasse , that the cacoa trees may without a rival engross the sap and substance of the soil , which is chosen the most fertile that can be got , and naturally skreen'd and shaded from the piercing rayes of the sun ; nor indeed can any ground be better employ'd ; the spaniard , ( who best understands the value of them ) reckoning every one of his cacoa trees to be worth him a piece of eight per an . after it begins to bear , which is usually about seven yeares after it's first planting ; in which time they are once or twice transplanted for the first two yeares , & especially in their infancy must be protected from the scorching sun by the favourable interposition of some shady trees ; and therefore the plantane-walks are usually made choice of , for such nurseries . of the fruit or nuts of these trees is made the so fam'd chocoletta , whose virtues are hyperboliz'd upon every post in london : though we must confesse it of excellent nourishment . the spaniard victualling for a long and wildernesse journey , with no other refreshment , then cakes made of the kernels of those cacoa nuts ; which he dissolves in water for his meat and drink . the composition of these cacoa cakes or chocoletta is now so vulgar , that i will not disparage my reader by doubting his acquaintance in so known a recipe , a very crambe in other authors . yet will it not be impertinent to render a most exact description of the nuts , then is hitherto extant , either in the english or spanish writings , that have as yet come to my hands . herrera and acosta report this fruit to be less then an almond ; whereas doctour hernandez , or rather , anthonius recchius in hist . plant. in amer. excuss . romae , 1651. describes it to be bigger then a musk-million . hernandez was imployed by the king of spain , to give an account of the physical rarities and plants of america , and to that purpose dispatched thither by the said catholick king , and is therefore more creditable and authentick then herrera or acosta : though indeed he does somewhat hyperbolize when he equals this fruit with the largenesse of a musk-million ; for the husk or cod is no bigger then the largest pears in england ; growing immediately out of the bole or body of the tree , and stock of the branches , admitting not so much as the intermedium or usherage of a twig , sprouting from the bottome to the top , twice especially every year , viz. in the moneths of ianuary and may , the chief moneths for the harvest of them . the outward crust , or put aminous husk , being broken , appears full of little kernels , or nuts , each of them inveloped in a slimy substance and film , of a phlegmatick complexion , but of a most relishing taste : under which is another shell , which when bak'd in the sun , resembles the colour and substance of a chesnut ; but the kernel is of a chesnut-hue both within and without , and of this is made the chocoletta cakes ; full of an oily substance , not unlike that of the oil of almonds per expressionem : and of this meanest labourer in iamaica compounds his morning draughts , wherein though he fares like a gallant , yet his following musick upon the hoe-boy ( wherein he practiseth to keep his hand in use , and sometimes till his heart akes ) doth more melodiously affect his masters eares then his own , and seems more harmoniously consonant to his canvas-drawers , which are also the sometimes ornament of the petticoat-sex ( through the rigour of their masters unmanumitted ; ) so that here likewise the women , ( though not with that complacency ) sometimes wear the breeches . in the bay of honduras , the coast of carthagena , and also in most places of nova hispaniola : two of these little cacoa nuts ( or kernels ) pass currant for one farthing , with which ( as good sterling ) they truck in the markets . 2. the coco nuts , which grow on a smooth and slender tree , whose wast ( in circumference ) equals that of a man's ; but it 's stature doubles his height . upon the top of whose bulk , the nuts in small clusters doe germinate immediately from the tree , at the footing of the branches . the nuts ( with the husk on ) is of a pyramtdal form and may vte dimensions with the greatest logger-head . the outward rind or husk is of a fibrous , spongy substance , about an inch thick , warily guarding , with superfluous charinesse , the inclosed shell , whose negro-skull is not easily broke . in some countries ( as in guinee ) the natives , card out this rind into a kind of course tow , which serves them for cordage , cables , okam , and ropes to rigge their ships ; whos 's hulls and masts ( as is reported ) are shap'd out of the body of the tree ; and victualled , only with the nuts , in whose content , is barrell'd up both drink and bread ; a milky liquour running out , so soon as you give it vent : for which purpose nature hath trim'd it with three bung-holes at the top . thus one tree sets up a marriner , and an orchard sets out a fleet : and at the return of the voyage , the sea-men are contentedly paid off with this fruit alone ; which serves for money , meat and drink . and indeed the milky juice is a most ambrosian dainty , very diuretick , and proper pharmacy for nephritick distempers . of the shells ( polished ) are made very handsome drinking-cups , in which office , they serve us for rarity here in europe . but they make no such use of the rind at iamaica ; the inner bark of a kind of fig-tree furnishing them ( by the negroes art ) with all sorts of cordage , usefull in a plantation . this tree parturiates every moneth , and will have fifty or sixty nuts at a burthen . if you cut the bark of the tree or fruit ( whilest green ) there issues forth a nectar , like that of the wounded vine ; or the english birtch-tree perforated in the spring , but of a far more aromatick taste . i purposely omit to speak of other pleasant fruits in the countrey , that are either common with other islands , or not transported into europe : because i would not puzzle the reader with hard names , nor tantalize him with a discourse of dainties , that he is never like to tast in europe ; and those that goe thither , need no tutor . but the cacoa and coco nuts are merchantable commodities , enhanced for their singular use and delight . i shall conclude with one rarity more , of which in iamaica is too great a plenty ; and that is the alligator , or indian crocodile , an amphibious creature , that ( like an otter ) haunts both the land and water . i have seen many of them upon hispaniola , but never any in the chariby islands , nor in the wind-ward settlements upon the main . it would be too long to tell what large feats are storied of this beast ; as that he will pull the bulls into the water , ( catching them like a keen mastiffe by the cheek ) when they come to drink , &c. this is true , that they have an incomparable strength in the water , in which as their most friendly element , they do usually encounter the prey , especially , if the mastery , will require their utmost strength in the grapple . but though he winnes the field in the water , ( with a bull ) yet he must share the spoil on the shore ; for he cannot ( without the danger of drowning ) swallow his booty , through an impediment in his throat . some of them ( i have seen ) six or seven yards long , but their usual stretch , may bate the half ; and indeed , though they are fierce and ravenous , yet at the approach of a man , whilest they lie basking upon the sands , they betake themselves , ( though with no great haste ) into the water ; yet is it not very safe sleeping near the shoar where they haunt , lest they take you napping . yet can they not prejudice a child that is but aware of them : for their motion is very slow ; neither can they turn the head , but the whole bodie must wheel for company . dat deus immiti cornua curta — there is as good civet in the cods of an old rammish alligator , as in the ginney civet cats . i shall not mention here the plenty of all sorts of fish , and wild fowl , as ginney hens , ducks , wild pigeons , &c. because these collections shall take notice onely of what is singular in this island , without a co partner , or any parallel in any other settlements of our countrey men . but possibly amongst these rarities some will expect i should ( as the most welcome newes ) discover some mines of silver or gold ; as the most undoubted transcendency of a rich land scilicet uxorem cum dote , fidemque & amicos , et genus & formam , regina pecunia donat . ac bene nummatum decorat suadela , venusque . this auri sacra fames of the lyrick , is usually the grand inquest ; and without it other things seem to want their taste , or relish but unsavourly , especially to such an epicurean as that was that charm'd his senses with this lullabie ; forbear your stoick rules , go read to bed-rid age ; for i 'le not heed your peevish morals , till dull sense despairs to have concupiscence . no , ( whilst my spirits are young & good , revelling in my frolick bloud ) compar'd to me old epicure , shall be a puritan demure , each sense shall play the parasite , to humour my coy appetite , till i ( bidding all joyes good-night ) prove the nil ultra a of delight , for virtues only that attend a state not needy i commend ; for on your beggar-virtues i dote not ( except integrity , ) such as is patience per force , a virtue practis'd by my horse . when him to th' manger i do tie from meat , long'd for with leering eye . and let humility be gone , when i have nought to be proud on . rather then such poor virtues have , some court rich vices , or a grave . such is some mens prophane boulimy and insatiable poludipsie after gold , through the depravement of their canine and pical appetites . — nec terret ambustus phacthon avaras spes . hor. neither heat nor cold can baracade the entratls and womb of the earth from the caesarean section , and debauch'd midwifery of the greedy miners ; which ( as 't is thought ) would not in iamaica , prove labour in vain ; for some melottoes and negroes , ( that were lately slaves to the spaniards in this isle ) tell us , that their masters did certainly know of two silver mines ; yet are they not hitherto found by the english ; whose scrutiny therein is not very prying and exact , the which , though astured , were no policy to divulge , till their numbers be encreased , and their foot hold secured ; arguments , that perswaded the spaniard to reclose and dam up a rich silver vein in a mountain near the sea , a few leagues to the norward of cape st. nicholas , at the west-end of hispantola : not daring to present such a temptation to the princes of europe , till his mines in petozo , peru , and new spain be worn out ; that his spare hands then may not only extract , but secure the oare ; a prize , which if now expos'd to publick notice ) would create him many an unwelcome rival , that would not be to seek of pretences enough , to further his suit : since our mother earth doth indifferently prostrate her womb to the common embraces of any ravisher , that hath arms strong enough to secure him , in the rape ; the only patent that the spaniard can show for his indie-mines . which himself very well knows , and is therefore very unwilling to dispute his title , but where he can empannell an army , instead of a iury to make good the claime ; the which he can hardly levie upon hispaniola ; it being so thinly peopled , that he can scarcely muster five hundred fighting men , ( in the whole island ) though he should put forth a general presse ( enforc'd with the strictest commission of aray ; ) except only in the town of st. domingo ; which is distant above one hundred and fifty miles from the forementioned mine ; and are not able with all their skill and strength to root out a few buckaneers or hunting french-men , that follow their game , in despight of them , though they cannot number three hundred at a general rendezvouse : and those dispersed at three hundred miles distance from one another , on the north and west sides of the island ; of whom peradventure i may have hereafter more occasion to discourse . therefore it is not much material , whether or no , iamaica own any silver mines , though it be more then probable that time will discover some : quicquid sub terra est , in apricum proferet aetas . for if there were but strength of hands in iamaica , they might procure money with lesse labour then digging : except the spaniard will quietly suffer them to reap the fruits of the common earth . for the propriety whereof he can shew no bill of sale but his sword. thus much in general . i shall novv give you a more particular description of this isle , with it's harbours , tovvns , ports , soundings , exactly represented in this map , to your vievv . wherein the chiese harbour at point cagway merits precedency , lying north-west from the said point in an arme of the sea , that shoots in three or four leagues within the land. where 1000. tall ships may safely ride at one time , and all sufficiently shelter'd from winds and waves ; and if they please , close aboard the shore , for an english mile in length , incomparably convenient for careening ships of all burthens . upon this point or sandy bay is now built above five hundred houses , by the english , chiefly for the accommodation of sea-men , especially the privateers , who are their best customers ; and sometimes , as now it is , the residence of the general , and some merchants and manufactures ; whose shares to build upon is measured out to them by the foot , and that immediately forfeited , if not forthwith improv'd by buildings , which now almost cover the face of the bay for a mile in length ; the breadth thereof being variable , sometimes borrowing of the two seas , in whose armes it lies , and then repaying with unequal interest ; so that about a mile from the harbour's mouth , it is almost bankerupt . the bank in that place not extending to above half a cables length in bredth : where , if cut through from sea to sea , ( which very little labour would effect . ) this isthmus would lose it's name in an island ; and the conversion conduce much to it's security . for there is no landing upon the south-side of the bay ( which is wash'd and buts upon the main seas ) by reason of the fury of the waves ( not pacified by any breakers , ) even in the becalmest seasons . and the entrance into the harbour is commanded with a fort , built by the english : wherein there are at this day , some as good canon planted , as the tower of london would afford , yet the bay , ( or said town ) consisting on nothing but loose sand ( in most places whereof you have water , in sinking but three or four foot ) admits no sufficient defence in teneable bulworks , without the tribute of forreign materials ; which are not far to seek . the worst is , their water , which is infected ( by the intrusion of the neighbour-seas ) with a brackish taste ; and therefore they make use of none but what is fetch'd three or four leagues in boats and canoues . which incovenience disswaded the spaniards from gracing it with so much as one house , seating themselves near a pleasant river , and by the side of a most lovely savana , in the famous town of st. jago de la vega. which was as well built , and as large as any town in england ; but now hast lost much of it's pristine lustre , since the landlords became english ; for it did contain two thoufand houses , and upwards , with sixteen churches and chappell 's , when it was first seized upon by the army conducted by gen. venables ; now there remains only the skeletons of two churches and an abbey , with about five or six hundred houses ; some of which are yet very pleasant and habitable . this town was first founded by columbus , to whose happy search , the west-indies first discovered it self ; ( all former commerce and traffick thither being till then adjourn'd beyond the records of time and memory ) bur now by him reviv'd to correspondency . he was the first father and god-father to this town , giving it the name of st. iago de la vega ; which it reciprocally retorted to him in his , and his yet remaining families title of honour ) by the good pleasure of the king of castile , created duke de la vega ; famous in spain , even to this day . here is plenty of cassta ligrea , and oranges of excellent relish in abundance , with some other choice fruits , the fruits of the spanish industry . the mentioned savana that faces this town is now pretty well stockt with sheep , goats , cowes , and especially tame horses . but it did contain many thousands of each whilest the spaniard own'd it . the back-side of the town is wash'd with a fair , but unavigable river which buries it self in the sea passage-fort . about twenty or thirty years agoe , this town was wonne by a little fleet of english men , fitted out from the chariby islands , chiefly from sr. kits , under the command of gen. iackson , who landed about five hundred men at passage-fort , and fought his way up to the town , against two thousand spaniards , who still fled before him ; but some what retarded his carcer , by six or seven several breast-works , cast up athwart the road , on purpose to bulwark this town , ( the jewell of this isle ) from such inroades and sudden surprizals : for the prevention whereof they kept continual watch upon a great hill that overlooks the sea , the harbour , and the town , from whence the centinells , in the twinkling of an eye by tokens agreed upon , signified the imminency of approaching dangers ; as at this time when gen. iackson made the on-set ; the strength of the isle being drawn up on the shore , before he could land his men ; whom , though the spaniards some what resisted , and at their several brest-works caus'd them to make an unwilling halt ; yet the fury of iackson's men , greedy of spoil , overcame all difficulties , neglecting dangers in comparison thereof : thus with the losse of fourty men , forcing to the town , plunder'd it , to their no small enrichment . the booty likewise being advanced by a large fine paid him by the spaniard , on condition the town might be preserved from burning ; which was accordingly sav'd , and their retreat to the fleet undisturb'd . but when the swelling armado with gen. venables , attempted this town , ( after their worse successe against st. domingo ) they beat the bush so long , till the bird was flown . for the subtle spaniard , belaying our men with parleys , and fair words , in the interim dispatches away bag and baggage ; sometimes sending beeves to stay the stomacks of the hungry soldiery ; and bearing gen. venables , in hand with choice viands ; and spanish dainties presented to his lady , who had more mind to eat then fight . thus staving them off , till their train and best movables had got so much law , that afterwards the swiftest pursuit could not give them a turn , before they had got covert in their fastnesse , the woods . and certainly , the treasure they carried with them could not but be very considerable if we may guess at the worth of the jewell by the splendor of the cabinet , that kept it : or estimate the largeness of the bird by the nest : the town being then even to magnificence , adorn'd with spatious houses . for the safe-guard whereof the spaniards never durst cope with our men in the plain field ; yet would sometimes gawl them , when befriended with the treachery , that night and the woods do afford ; in which clandestine encounters , though at first the spanish successe was too fortunate ; yet dear bought experience did in a little time train up our men in the same mysteries : in which now they are grown so perfect , that they never ceast beating both spaniard and negro at their own play , and with their own weapons , till they had cleared the island of them ; in despair now of recovery ( being so often refrustrated in their reattempts , ) except by some invincible armado , which yet will find work enough , e're they make the island too hot for the english , now naturaliz'd to the countrey , and can never want shelter nor victuals whilst they have the woods to befriend ; with which now they are so well acquainted , that the molottoes and negroes , ( which the spaniards left behind them to keep possession of the island , therein reckoning without their host , presuming them unconquerable , and past finding out ) are now so overmatch'd in their own arts , that their captain and the major part of them have submitted ; thereby lessening their master's title by eleven points of the law ; and craving english protection ; into which , they are upon submission received , by the truly honourable general dawley , and now authoriz'd to prey upon , and hunt their fellows , that in scattered parties yet stand it out , having already sealed their allegiance with the bloud of their old associates , not without the dextrous contrivement of that noble general , whose happy policy in the wary preservation of this forlorn in iamaica , hath already without the suspicion of flattery , authoriz'd the style . to whom our nation , in some measures stands indebted for the reprizal of that honour at rio-novo , which was so shamely lost under the debauch'd conduct of gen. venables in hispaniola : the spaniards till then having so mean and despicable thoughts of english courage , that upon the on-set at rio-novo they upbraided our men with the opprobrious mention of sancta domingo , till the repented assay of their valour , disciplin'd them into better manners . for though the numbers of the spanish forces at rio-novo doubled the english ( being sent from cuba to reinforce and resettle the island ) and those strongly entrenched ; yet such was the enraged earnestnesse of the souldiery to redeem their wounded honours , that ( regardlesse of all odds and disadvantages ) they storm'd them in their trenches with a resolution as undaunted as the successe was prosperous . hereby not only retriving the pristine same of their countrey-men ; but also hitherto frustrating all hopes in the spaniards of further attempts to regain the island . another party of spaniards reseating themselves at point-pedro , being attended with a no lesse inauspicious fate . and the truth is , the island , though it were lesse fruitfull , is worth the fighting for , thou it should cost the spaniard some of his best bloud ; for it lies within his bowels , and in the heart of his trade . for all the treasure that his plate-fleet brings home from carthagina steer directly for st. domingo in hispaniola , and from thence must pass by one of the ends of this island to recover the havana , the common rendezvouse of this whole armado , before it returns home through the gulf of florida . nor is there any other way ( whereby to miss the island of iamaica ) because he cannot in any reasonable time turn it up to the windward of hispaniola ; the which though he might with difficulty perform , yet he would thereby loose the security of his united forces , which at the havana ( from all the parts of the bay of mexico , new-spain , and the rich merchandize that comes by nombre de dios , from the south seas , ) accompany each other home from the said general rendezvouse . so that the privateers from iamaica are often fingering the plate , and other precious commodities , that was never consign'd to them ; by picking up their single and stragling vessels before they are ensur'd by their embodied fleet. in which respects ( as in many others ) necessity hath made a better choice of a seat for the english dominions , then their intended surprizal of hispaniola , though it had been atchieved : and their winnings , ( if the game be followed ) will unexpectedly outvie the stakes . and here i cannot but take notice of the many convenient harbours , adjudg'd by the most experienced mariners to equal the best that they ever came to anchor in . for besides that already mentioned at point cagg way . there is another ( nothing inferiour ) below it to lee-ward at about four or five leagues distance ; and may as conveniently serve the town of st. iago , as that other at cagg-way ; they being triangularly scituated : it is usually known by the name of old harbour , where four hundred tall ships may ride together without danger of falling foul upon one another . and about fourteen leagues to wind-ward , is another safe port called by the spaniards porto morant , which yet retains the name . in the confines whereof a regiment is seated ; who with many other planters , have now made themselves considerable in the produce of sugar , tobacco , cotton , &c. but it is besides my scope to mention every harbour on this and the north side of the isle , lest this volume extend beyond the compendious dimensions of journal notes ; calculated only for those that are most remarkable , especially since the fore-inserted plat may satisfie a more critical enquiry ; and be sufficiently authenrick to confute those traditional heterodoxes , that some mens rashnesse hath published to the contrary upon bare report . but i shall adjourn a more plenary discovery to these ensuing animadversions . reflexions upon the present affairs of jamaica ; and the expedition against hispaniola : under the conduct of general vennables . 1. that bulky armadoes are many times sunk with their own weight ; which , if parcell'd out into seasonable recruits , had signified more by each retail , then the prodigal waste of such whole-sale adventures . the dimensions of this great preparation vastly exceeding the difficulties that could encounter them , from all the united forces in hispaniola : and fitted out with strengths sufficient to make prize of the whole spanish plate-fleet , rather then the sacking of a small town , or an unpeopled land , such as is st. domingo , and hispantola ; who at the first brunt left this town to the ransack of gen. iackson's men ; though timely alarum'd by iackson's demurre , at the harbours mouth , for four dayes space ; and then not able to land above five hundred men . a thousand english souldiers being now an over-match to all the power , that the spaniards in hispaniola , can bring into the field ; unable at this day to serrit out a new french buckaneers , or hunting marownaes , formerly mentioned ; who live by killing the wild beeves for their hides ; and might grow rich by the trade , did not their lavish riotings in expence ( at the neighbour tortudoes ) exceed the hardship of their incomes . their comfort is , they can never be broke whilest they have a dog and a gun ; both which , are more industriously tended then themselves . these acteon-straglers ( that seldome number above five or six in a company ) are often affronted with the spanish rounds ( consisting of about one hundred fire-locks ) that once a year compass the island , yet dare they never cope with these resolute champions , & wandring knights ; who , setting back to back , would make sure to sell their lives at a double rate , and in that posture bid defiance to the enemy . the grave seignior scorning to barter a drop of poenish bloud in exchange for an ocean of such rascal gaule . and i am very confident that the small remnant left in iamaica ( knowing how to victual their camps with what the woods afford ) will be able to disaray the spaniards in hispaniola or cuba , ( even to admiration , ) and above what the most favouring presage can expect or autume . and certainly this foot-hold ( yet secur'd , maugre the spanish craft and power , ) foiled twice by them in their reattempts doth open so fair a passage into the indies ; that if his sacred majesty , our most excellent prince do not in mercy balk the spaniard ; a few years will immortalize him one of the greatest emperours of the world : being happy , and not onely in an invincible navy , but in the dominion of northern kingdomes , that are therefore so fruitfull , that they store him with more men then room : who are soonest likely to leave justling when they are parted with more elbow-room : the very division of that united abraham and lot , who by too near correspondence fell together by the ears . thus too nigh neighbourhood begets contentions , whilest distance and absence usually enhanceth the affections of near friends . reflex . ii. 2. that sudden surprizes from an ambuscade , usually prevailes more then open force . the whole strength of hispaniola , though embodied and in view , not being able to strike that terrour , and make such havock of our amazed soldiers , as fourty or fifty negroes and molettoes effected by an unlook'd for on-set . gaining more by this jugling delusion then their whole army could by play above-board . the spaniards ( like hannibal ) obtaining conquest with their heads rather then their hands . nor are they so usually foiled , as when encountred with their own weapons : a wary plodding fabius signifying more then a hot spur marcellus . to which squint-ey'd mode in war scanderbeg stands indebted for most of his victories against the ottomanes ; as also ioshua , though back'd with a divine reserve , for the defeat of aj. thus also do the native indians encounter their adverse nations , rather stealing upon them , then assailing them ; especially , practis'd by the meridional , and more oriental americans ; whose diminitive statures call for the assistance of wily stratagems ; neglected by the more northerly and armstrong regions , whose character , ( according to mine own knowledge and experience ) especially of those guiana and char●by indians , that cohabit with the english in surinam , i deem not much extravagant here to insert . under the line that equal's night and day guiana stands , part of america : on whose head phoebus shoots his fiery steams , twice every year , with down right darted beams . in his twelve houses , as he travels forth alongst the zodiack , 'twixt the south and north. whose native indian hath not , nor needs art to clothe himself , nature supplies that part. they 're true philosophers , not much they have , nor do they want much , nor much do they crave . they care not for to morrow ; no supply , but just from hand to mouth , no granary : if they want flesh , they take their bow in hand . and then for hare or deer , hunt o're the land. for all game here most eas'ly taken be , since they take covert in some hollow tree . or some such crazie refuge , whence they are dig'd forth at leisure for the hunter's fare . or if the stomack do in fish delight , with wily feats he gluts his appetite . his bread & drink both made of one root are , cassawder call'd , cook'd by the women's care ; who shew their best of dutie to their home , when their mates wearied with their booties come . for every man in 's house is lord and king , hath pow'r of life and death , and every thing : his will 's his law , from him there 's no appeal , no other monarchy or common-weale . if wives and children offenders are , his will 's the judge ; hand , executioner : to none but to their chief , they homage owe , that 's th' eldest son , when marry'd , t' him they bowe , his father , mother , brethren , nephews , all ; must low'r to him , and on the knee must fall : till his first son be married , then he ( depos'd ) must to his own son bend the knee . thus do they live by families , thus then they 're alwayes govern'd by middle-ag'd men . when any dyes , into his urne is hurl'd all that he hath ; ( to use ; i' th' other world : ) his axe , bill , knife , his bow and hammock too , and this the best of service they can doe for their dead friend . if he a captain be , then if he have a slave , he then must die ; and the same roge burn both ; thus is supply'd each one i' th' other world , as 'fore he dy'd . but usually their slaves , when captive ta'ne , are to the english sold ; and some are slain , and their flesh forthwith barbacu'd and eat by them , their wives and children as choice meat . thence are they call'd caribs , or cannibals ; the very same that we man-eaters call . and yet herein lyes not their chief content to eat for food , but as a sacrament ; to bind them and their children to be fierce , and into th' entrails of their foes to pierce . though in the world no greater cowards be , managing all their fights with treachery , most of their feats by stealth and night are done , if once it come to handy-gripes they runne . thus much i 'le say ; i would not wish to have a better friend , or foe , or better slave then is an indian ; where he once affects , in love and service shall be no neglects . command him as your slave , his life , his all , if he do once you but bone-aree call ; and who would wish an easier foe then he , that ( like a buck ) at noise of guns will flie , but then your slave if that an indian be , no other caterer you need but he . he plenty shall provide for yours and you , with his dogs only , and his bill and bow and thus much for their men. their women are lovely , though brown ; modest , hiding their ware , with several colour'd beads together knit , with art methodical together set ; and this they use whilest they are young and fair , but when they 're old , their heedlesse , all is bare . if of your wine and brandee , youl 'e be free , they 'le not leave till they drunk as beggars be . they call the devil yerkin , him alone they worship , saying , god wills harm to none , but is intirely good ; and therefore they , the mercy of their yerkin only pray . when they are sick , yerkin doth bear the blame , of him they beg deliverance from the same , the muses and their flamens they cashiere , only diana's troops are ' stablish'd here , except some priests , which they do call peei , with mumbling charms yerkin to pacifie . ( in summe to say ) they 're all simplicity , almost like adam , in 's innocency . whatever nature or their appetite does dictate , they do follow with delight ; not once with conscience check embittered , being by the law of nature only led . not coveting large barns , with hoards to stuffe , when once their belly 's full , they have enough ; for avarice , here never makes them jarre , nor warrants , by religion's varnish , warre . his pride so natural , ( if 't be a vice , ) yet costs him nothing , or but little price ; it never makes him sell his land , nor shut shop-windows up , nor a spare jewel put to trouble , in a pawne for cloak or gown . his onely pride 's a feather on his crown : the cast-clothes of some gaudy bird fits him . for which he needs not venture life nor limb , nor hector it , nor list under sir hugh , ( when known by the old suit , to fish for new ; ) nor cringe to velvet titles , with a gape , like fawning cur , or mopping jack-an-ape : nor need to be light finger'd in a crowd ; nor light heel'd to procure a scarfe or hood , nor with stretch'd fancies beg a ladies smile , which she ( poor soul ) scarce understands the while , they make no mintage here of brains , nor be the sterling pence coyn'd with a comoedie . for pomp and fine clothes only are the cause of all our shirking trades , and endlesse lawes . since nature ne're brought forth a creature yet , unfurnish'd , with what coverlets were fit . the back ( if not misus'd ) in coldest land , craving no waste clothes , more then face or hands . but this diversion is somewhat out of our way to iamaica . reflex . iii. 3. though in multitude of councellours there is safety , yet multitude of commanders equally sharing in power , are usually attended with confusion . and therefore though the wary romanes invested their confuls with equal authority , ( lest the unmated interest of a single general should by happy victories winne so much upon the affections of his concern'd followers , as to enfringe the liberties , with which they hugg'd themselves in their aristocracy ; ) yet the consuls commanded by turns , by intermitting dayes ; and very seldome in one and the same province ; counter to the instructions in this expedition , which oblig'd the general to act nothing without the joint consent of gown-commissioners , for that purpose constituted . which , though it pleads somewhat in apologie for general vennables , yet neverthelesse it raseth out this model from the more genuine maxims of policy ; as invented only by the jealousies of tyrants and usurpers ; but found uselesse and prejudicial to more justly installed princes ; whose undisputed titles need not the broke-age of such shifting and by-way stratagems to ensure their negotiations . reflex . iv. 4. that souldiers wives are more properly seated in their husband's kitchin , then his tent. general vennable's lady being not unjustly blamed , both for his sluggish and listlesse proceedings , as also , for his unlicens'd and immature return , further'd , if not procur'd by her too opportune inculcations . a dalliance of so sad a consequence to the english nation , that zeal to my native countrey whets my passions to so satyrical an edge , that i can scarce forbear , here to lash out , against her whole sex , did not the virtues of some others interceed . however i must have a touch at the martyred state , that warrants such unseasonable companions for the warres ; wisely prevented by the turks in their eunuch-generals . the best on 't is i am not awed ( thanks to my fates ) with the dreadfull catechisme of a curtain lecture . i cannot think on wretched cleopatra , but she doth move my spleen , and bilis atra : who caus'd silly mark anthony to smart ; losing his head , when he gave her his heart . he first embrac'd the serpent in his arm , but she , long after ; both , with equal harm . how call you those who fool'd old solomon ; and shameless put the royal breeches on ? what can secure us from the petticoat ? when wit , nor samson's strength can save the throat ? if pins and laces emperours enthral , wonder not at a puny general . but if you must wed ; see some charm you get , inclose i' th' wedding-ring an amulet : nothing can be too safe ; we thunder fear , a toy to th' curtain-whisper in the car . thus socrates curst zeno , ( when in strife , vying for curses , wish'd , he had a wife . thus the grave judge in rigour did decree , to him that had two wives , he should have three . ( as the monck shriv'd the drunkard ) for his pain , ordaining that he should be drunk again . ) if expiations merit , none 's more meet . then to do penance in the nuptial sheet : for sure they need not purgatory fear hereafter , that ( poor souls ) endure it here . there 's no such joy in this betwin'd state then , if any , th' women get it , not the men . though i must say , those pretty sweet-meats please sometime ; but to cloy'd stomachs a disease . such is the nuptial surfeit , a mere glut , like loathed baggage to the nauseous gut. enough is better then a feast , each one , after a fast does fall the keener on ; but to lie wallowing in cates , though rare , fie on 't , what is it but a hoggish fare ? if then at best no better chear you meet , how doth he fare that 's lodg'd i' th' loathed sheet ? if the most stately prisons cannot please , vvhat shall we find i' th' jakes and little-ease ? is there no paradise in cherry-cheek , what a plague is that then , that 's as green as leek ? if that your pretty maids be things , but filly , ( compar'd by ancient bards , to rose and lilly ) then sure , that look must needs be out of date , bedaub'd ( like ulcers ) with precipitate . if females , at the best , but pester men , he 's match'd , that hath a leagure-lady then . but i 'le forbid no banes ; nor rouse the nest of little angry wasps : i 'me but in jest ; though , whil'st some read these lines , their wives in view , they 'le whisper to themselves , and say , they 're true . for by your leave , with venus though you 're match't , there is no doubt but you are coneycatch't . but such poor men , as this general vennables , ( that are thus o're-mated ) works my pity rather then scorn , moving my bowels more then my spleen ; for though the kingdome was the loser , he is none of the gainers , and the thraldome of his sheets out-vies the halter ; furnishing us with this conclusion , that he 's unfit to be pater patriae that is not domt dominus ; nor to head an army , that must kneel at his own fire side ; nor to ride admiral of a fleet , that cannot carry the flag at home , but is forced to lowre his top sail , to a petty coat . in defiance whereof , i have here , with their own worded weapon , taken up the gantlet , to my no little hazard of a scolding : though if they knew the respect and honour i have for the worthy thy ladies ; ( as those that knows me , know i am no woman hater , ) nor in this relation any thing of kin to the noble blake , the nicest coynes would easily vouchsafe me an act of grace . all my quarrell with their sex consisting only in the defence of those poor men that stand in need of abasuerus his decree . reflex . v. 5. that the most promising designs , though launch'd out and promoted with all the appertinent utensills , that policy can contrive ; are many times easily defeated by uncalculated accidents : sometimes a mistaken letter , in the sound of a word , hath rooted great armadoes : and the whistling of the wind in the sicamour trees destroyed an host . thus gideon founded the midianites with the sudden surprizal of trumpets , lamps , and broken pitchers . * the very looks of the germanes affrighted the gaules ; and the very flashes in the besmeared faces of the picts , did gawle the saxons . thus did the hellish visage of the grim negroes and molettoes beyond all imagination at the first assault nonplus our men at hispaniola ; which yet had not signified so much , if it had not been seconded with the unhappy conduct of gen. venables ; whose crazy management of affairs shared so sinister an influence to his better deserving followers . the indulgent heavens till now , suspending the award of any damages to the english nation , in repair of the losse of that invincible armado in eighty eight . reflex . vi. 6. that necessity often trains up a militia better then plenty . for had not the belly been magister artis , putting the soldiers to their shifts , to silence it's importunities , they had never prov'd so good marks-men , nor had come so familiarly acquainted with the woods : whose skill therein hath now stood them in so good stead , for the stubbing up those spanish negroes , that till then lay as thorns in their sides , that they could scarce stir abroad without being prick'd . thus the alpes prov'd less fatal to hannibal's army , then capua ; and hunger & cold spur'd and egg'd on the weather-beaten goths and vandalls to better their sun , till they did lord it in france and italy . this only inconvenience attended the soldiery of iamaica , that finding their leggs , and able to stand by themselves without the assistance of a providore , they became more refractory , and head-strong , and of a lesse bounded discipline : acknowledging but small homage where they received so small pay ; which did the rather subject them to mutiny , and easie to be wrought upon by more working pates . nor did this licentiousness long want the misimproved subtilty of a gentleman , one lieut. col. raymond , a discontented souldier , that wanted nothing but a better employ , to set out his vast parts : and had he not encountred with a general , that is cunning enough , and prov'd himself at all machievilltan assayes , his match ; he had certainly reduc'd the forces in iamaica , into a self-destroying flame ; especially now their discontents had heated them to so ( tinder-like ) a touchinesse , that they were ready to take fire on all occasions . nor were these incendiaries to seek of all plausible pretexts that witty usurpation doth use to colour and gild blacker designes . but what the aimes of lieut. col. raymond were are not easily to be discovered ; but it is more then presum'd , that his want of employment : ( having never had any charge in iamaica ) though not uncapable of the greatest , that this isle could afford ) made him ( unable to bear neglects ) thus over busie ; and too too active in moulding poor lieut. col. tison to what shape he pleas'd ; his heart being better then his head , and his armoury better blazoned with the dove then the serpent ; and i am very confident did not foresee the evil and danger that those lawless bandyings do incurre , which relation may admit the more credit in that i am altogether unconcerned in either party , and neither prejudic'd nor byassed with partiality . nor were those fickle-headed souldiers so soon invited to rise in arms with them , but they sooner deserted them : leaving them to the mercy of their opponents court-mashalls , who presently doom'd them , to be shot to death . lieut. col. tison died with some reluctancy and regret ; but lieut. col. raymond , like himself ; with an undismay'd resolution answerable to his wonted magnanimity on whose interment a busie wit threw this epitaph . at thy nativity the heaven's have worn such visage as when cataline was born . your significators sure must be th' same , and aspects ; since you differ but in name . his vaster soul rome 's walls could not confine , thine daign'd no pere , scarce that of cataline . his stile long-winded tully 's did surpasse , and thine so ravishing , too perswasive was . he knew no fear , scarce of his own deem'd gods , oh that in this , of thee he 'd had the odds ! his soul , engross'd th' monopoly of arts , and thy orphaean skill could ravish hearts . his to w'ring genius could not bend the knee , and thine was fitter for a throne then thee . the king of terrours could not him affright , and thou did'st seem to court eternal might . not un bewail'd was his catastrophe , and ev'n thine enemies lamented thee . he lives ( though not entomb'd ) by'is famous facts , thy grave , scarce known ; but , well enough thine acts. reflex . vii . 7. that though infant-settlements , like infant-years , are usually most fatal ; yet their blossomes once set , are not so easily blasted . happily experimented in iamaica , whose blooming hopes now thrive so well , and their stocks so well rooted , that they are not easily routed . the major part of the inhabitants being old west-indians , who now naturalized to the countrey , grow the better by their transplantation , and flourish in health equivalently comparable to that of their mother-sotl . for which i need not beg credit , since there is no countrey disease ( as at virginia and surinam ) endemically raging throughout the isle ; nor any new and unheard of distempers that want a name . so that a wise man needs no other physick there but his temperance , scarcely craving hospital assistance so much as we in england , nor have any more reason to deify an aesculapius . and therefore we consult our fears , rather then the dangers , when the very name of travell into foreign parts , doth so much affright us , especially into so serene an aire as breathes in iamaica , that owns nothing but it's distance to dismay us from it's visit ; the indies being no such bugbear as they are ( usually pourtray'd . in vindication therefore , for travel , take this apology . prithee , perswade me not , my dear , you do mistake my fates , i fear . my glass will run no sooner out , though i do range the world about . could my stay here , bribe a delay , from the pale sisters , i would stay . but 't is too true ( though 't be a fable ) the sisters are inexorable ; and are as nimble with their knife to those that lead a home-bred life . brave rawleigh found ( too soon ) a tomb ! not in the indies , but at home . the destinies did drake forbear in the antipodes , not here ; and do , like ladies coy , neglect those most , that court them with respect . but will embraces beg & pray of those that are as niceas they . or , if the froward stars dispence with their malignant influence , adjourning plagues they use to bring , in peccant autumns , or the spring : yet a consumption , or the gout , in chimney-corner finds us out : or , ( what is worse ) old driveling age , with all it's loathed aequipage , arrests us , till we have unsaid the pray'rs which we for long life made ; yet , they 're forc'd soonest to recant , that fruits of youthful travel want : for knowledge onely doth commend old age ; whilest listening nephews'tend with greedy ears to catch up all old stories , grand-sires does let fall ; ( thus shortening long winters night ) this paliiates age with some delight , for when the cold palsey doth seize on other members , tongues at ease . and is the old man's commendamus , which without travel is less famous . nay damn'd exile in this was blest , of kings , it has made ours the best : thus ioseph's brethrens ( meant ) abuse rais'd him , the honour of his house . aeneas thus enhanc'd his fame , from trojan to the roman name . reflex . viii . 8. that an army once cow'd , especially in their first foreign attempt , seldome bound their fear till it become altogether panick : like that punick amaze that epidemically invaded carthage , after the first defeat of hannibal by the more thriving genius of scipio africanus . this is certain , that after the first check given to our forces by the negroes and molettoes in hispaniola ; the very mention of their coming , ( though bruted but for experiment ) caus'd some to hasten their march , beyond the pace of gravity and valour . though after tryals approv'd them to be english men , rather then normans , daring , to rally defeated courage . the truth whereof many an aethiope hath now unwillingly asserted by the lavish expence of his sooty bloud . and here i intended to publish some essayes touching the future settlement of iamaica , which now are upon second thoughts condemn'd to privacy . finis . notes, typically marginal, from the original text notes for div a86321-e930 * amer. desc . p. ult . 1655. * caes . com. de bell . gallic . a description of the island of jamaica with the other isles and territories in america, to which the english are related ... : taken from the notes of sr. thomas linch, knight, governour of jamaica, and other experienced persons in the said places : illustrated with maps / published by richard blome. 1672 approx. 173 kb of xml-encoded text transcribed from 106 1-bit group-iv tiff page images. text creation partnership, ann arbor, mi ; oxford (uk) : 2008-09 (eebo-tcp phase 1). a28392 wing b3208 estc r7437 11899209 ocm 11899209 50575 this keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the early english books online text creation partnership. this phase i text is available for reuse, according to the terms of creative commons 0 1.0 universal . the text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. early english books online. (eebo-tcp ; phase 1, no. a28392) transcribed from: (early english books online ; image set 50575) images scanned from microfilm: (early english books, 1641-1700 ; 55:6) a description of the island of jamaica with the other isles and territories in america, to which the english are related ... : taken from the notes of sr. thomas linch, knight, governour of jamaica, and other experienced persons in the said places : illustrated with maps / published by richard blome. blome, richard, d. 1705. lynch, thomas, sir, d. 1684? [9], 192 p. : 2 folded maps. printed by t. milbourn, and sold by the book-sellers of london and westminster, london : 1672. first ed. cf. bm. identified in reel guide as wing b3208. errata: p. 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xml conversion a description of the island of jamaica ; with the other isles and territories in america , to which the english are related , viz. barbadoes , st. christophers , nievis , or mevis , antego , st. vincent , dominica , montserrat , anguilla , barbada , bermudes , carolina , virginia , maryland , new-york , new england , new-found-land . taken from the notes of sr. thomas linch knight , governour of jamaica ; and other experienced persons in the said places . illustrated with maps . published by richard blome . london , printed by t. milbourn , and sold by the book-sellers of london , and westminster , 1672. to his sacred majesty charles ii. king of england , scotland , france , and ireland , &c. dread soveraign , this small treatise , or description , of your majesties dominions and territories in america , humbly presents its self unto your royal patronage , by the hands of your majesties most humble and obedient subject and servant , richard blome . the preface to the reader . having the favour of some notes from my honoured friend sir thomas linch knight , about the description of the island of jamaica , whose worth and ingenuity hath lately merited from his majesty the government of the said isle ; as likewise the opportunity of several papers relating to the affairs and description of the other isles and territories in america , wherein the english are concerned , which i received from the hands of several of my friends who are related thereunto , i thought them very fit to be published . the said notes and papers i have digested into a clearer and more compendious method ; being brief descriptions thereof , which this small treatise only aimeth at ; and not to trouble the reader with large and unnecessary discourses no ways proper for the design in hand : for by that means , i might ( by the help of a large print which some publisher of books call ornamental ) have put them to an unnecessary charge in buying , and as great a trouble in reading . i have also added some maps for the more utility thereof , which were taken from the latest surveys . rich. blome . errata . in page 126. line 8. the word [ not ] to be omitted . a new survey , or , description of the island of jamaica . the island of jamaica lyeth betwixt the tropicks in the 17. and 18. degrees of northern latitude ; and beareth from off the island of hispaniola eastward , about 35. leagues . from the island of cuba northwards , about 20. leagues . from porto bello southwards , about 160. leagues . from carthagena south-easterly about 140. leagues . from rio de la hache in the continent south-easterly , 160. leagues . the forme and extent of the isle . it is something inclined to an oval forme , being from east to west 170 miles in length ; and from north to south in the midst where it is broadest about 70 , it waxing narrower and narrower at both extream ends . from east to west along the the midst of the isle runns a continued ridge of lofty mount●ins which are full of fresh springs , whence flow the many rivers that so plentifully waters the island , to the great refreshment and accommodation of the inhabitants . the soyle , fertility , &c. it is in most parts ( especially the north ) of a rich and fat soyle , being of a blackish earth , in many places mixt with a clay , and in some , as the south west parts , it is of a more red and loose earth , but every where incomparable apt to produce , and liberally to answer the cultivators cost and paines for what is planted ; being alwayes springing , and its trees and plants never disrobed of their summer livery , every month being to them as our may , or april . here are many savanas which are intermixed with the hills and woods , ( especially in the north and south parts , where are great store of wild cattel ) which by report were sometimes feilds of indian maiz , or wheat , which when the spaniards became masters of the isle , they converted to pasture for the feeding of their cattel ; bringing hither from spain , horses , cowes , hoggs , and asenegros for a breed , after they had destroyed all the natives , or indians , which according to calculation , did amount to about 60000. which cattel did exceedingly encrease , witness the great heards of horses , and other cattel , that are now wild in the woods ; besides the great quantities of cows that have been killed by the english , since they became masters thereof : and these savanas are the most barren , as being so long made use of without tillage ; yet doth they produce such great plenty of grass , that the english are constrained oft-times to burn it up . the air , and temperature . the air is here more temperate then in any of the caribbee isles , as seated more northerly , and of as mild a temperature ( as to heate ) as any place between the tropicks , being always cooled with fresh breezes , that constantly bow easterly , and refreshed with frequent showers of rain , and such dews that fall in the night ( much quickning the growth of what is planted ) that it may truly be called temperate and healthful ; and by reason of its continuall verdure ( as i have before noted ) exceeding delightful . and it is observed that the west and east parts of the isle are most subject to raine and windes ; and the woods being also thick , and close , rendreth the aire less agreeable , then the north and south parts , which are more plain and open , and less subject to raine and winds . the mountaines which run along the midle of the isle from one extreame point to the other , are much cooler then the other parts , insomuch that oft times in the mornings there is small white frosts . this island is in no parts troubled with those storms of wind called huricanes , which all the caribbee isles are much pestered with , having somtimes by the violence of those gusts , their ships forced out of their roads ; and on shore , their houses blown down , and provisions , &c. rooted out of the earth . the weather . the weather of this isle is less certain then in the rest of the caribbee islands ; the most observable wett seasons are in november or may ; there being no seemable winter but by a little more rain , and thunder , in the winter months . the winds here constantly blow all the day from nine in the morning easterly , and become more fresher as the sun mounteth higher , by reason of which , at midd-day travel or labour is sufferable . but from eight at night to about eight in the morning , it frequently blows westerly ; and with these winds , or breezes , the vessells get out of the harbours , and ply to wind-ward . there is scarce any sencible lengthning or shortning of the days or nights , but are almost alwayes of an equal length . the sea ebbs and flowes seldome above a foot . hurricanes are here never known , as before i have noted ; nor hath any vessel been lost , or cast away on the coast , since the english were masters of it . the commodities , which this island produceth . this isle hath , and produceth many excellent commodities and that in exceeding great plenty , as sugars so good , that they out-sell those of the barbadoes 5. s. per cent. there being at present about sugar works , which may produce yearly 1710 thousand weight of sugar , those still encreasing , and divers others a going up . cocao , the principal , and most beneficial commodity of the isle , which i shall anon take occasion to speak of more at large ; and that by reason of the aptness of the ground to produce and beare it above other places : here being at present above 60. cocao walks ; besides abundance of young walks which are a growing up , and still more a planting , so that in time it will become the only noted place for that commodity in the world , which is so much made use of by us , and other nations , but in far greater measure by the spaniards who alone are enough to take of the product of the isle ; so that there is no fear that it will become a drugg , and lye upon the hands of the planter . indico this isle produceth very good , there being at present more then 60. indico works , which may produce about 50000. weight of indico per. annum , and do likewise much encrease . cotton here hath an especial fineness , and is by all preferred before that of the carribbee isles . tobacco is here indifferent good , being esstemed better then that of the barbadoes , but it is not much planted , only a sufficiency to serve themselves ; the other commodities being more benificial . hydes , of which great quantityes have been yearly made , and are found to be very large and good . great store of tortoises are taken on this coast , whose meat ( being excellent ) they eat , and their shells so much esteemed here in england for several curious works , finds good vent . here are great variety of woods for dyers , as fustick , red-wood , a kind of logg-wood , &c. also caedar , mothogeney , brasilletto , lignum-vitae , ebony , granadilla , and many other excellent sweet smelling , and curious woods fitt for choise works , whose names are as yet not known ; nor indeed their excellencies ; but are exported in great quantities . copper , they are assured is in this isle , for they have seen the ore , wrought out of a mine here ; and by the spaniards report , the bells that hung in the great church of st. iago , were cast of the copper of this island . silver may probably be here , as well as in cuba , and in the maine ; and the english have been shewed where the spaniards had found a silver mine , behind the mountains west of cagway . ambergreece ( according to the spaniards report ) hath been often found on this coast . salt , this island might make great quantities , there being already 3. good and very large salt-ponds , containing neare 4000. acres of ground ; but as yet they make no more then for their own use : although there was made in one yeare about 10000 bushells ; and the manager thereof , cap. jo. noye , did affirm that he could have made as many tunns if they had had vent . saltpeter hath been found in many parts of the island . ginger grows better in this isle , then in many of the carribbe islands ; of which here is sufficiency planted . codd-pepper which is so commonly used in all the west indies , grows plentifully here . piemente , or jamaica pepper , a spice of the form of east-india pepper , very aromatical , and of a curious gousto , having the mixt taste of divers spices , grows here in great plenty , wild in the mountains . but the spaniards did sett a high esteeme thereon , and exported it as a very choise commodity , as indeed it is ; and now it is begun to be planted by the english , and will become a good commodity . drugs are here in great abundance , as guacum , china-roots , sasapharilla , cashia fistula , tamerindes , vinillos , achiots or anetto , which is like to prove a good commodity . here are also dive●● gums , and roots , wherewith experienced planters do cure many hurts , ulcers , and distempers of the body . and by the report of an intelligent doctor , which made it his business to search after such things , here are likewise contrayerna , cyperas , aloes , assole pie , adjuntum , nigrum , cucumis , agrestis , sumach , acacia , miselto , with many other druggs , balsoms and gums , whose names are not known , or remembred : but the planters begin to be more expert in these drugs , and endeavour to encrease them , and supply england therewith . cochaneil is produced by a plant that grows in this isle , but as yet the english want experience to husband it ; easterly winds , and many other things being enemies to its growth , besides the difficulty of makeing it . these with some others are the commodities that this island produceth , which if well improved , would soon become the best , and richest plantation that ever the english were , ( or are like to be ) masters of . i shall in the next place give you an account of the management of a cocao walk , with a calculation of its costs , and profits , as it was lately estimated by that judicious and great encourager of the planters , s. tho. modiford baronett , late governour of the said island . directions about a cocao walk . first , take up 5 or 600. acres of land , which be sure choose in a good place proper to produce the cocao , which will cost for the surveying and patent 010 l. 0 s. for 3 negro men , and as many negro women at 20 l. per head 120 l. 0 s. for 4 white servants , with their passage and dyet for a year 080 l. 0 s. for 20 axes , 20 bills , and 20 hoos for them 005 l. 0 s. for 6. negroes dyet , for six months at 2 s. per day , until you have some provisions grown in your plantation . 018 l. 5 s. for an overseer to look after the servants , for his wages ▪ and diet at 40 s. per month 024 l. 0 s. in all 257 l. 5 s. and for the employing these servants in your plantation as followeth : supposing them to land , and to be on the plantation the first of march , and that they have by the middle of that month ( as they may very easily ) cleared a convenient place , and built fitting houseing for the lodging them . then put them to falling , cleaning , and planting a potato peece of 4. acres , which ten hands will very well do by the middle of april : after this , you may clean , and plant with rue and plantin-trees , until the last of february , which is above 10 months ; in which time they may with ease have cleansed and planted 21. acres , besides keeping them clean which are planted and are still a planting ; and in this time , which compleats the year , you may be full of potatoes and corn , and within 2. months of the new year , with plantins , and a small stock of hoggs , and fowles ; so that you will be at no more charge for provisions for your servants . and then to keep this clean , and to plant the cocao-walk , and for five more negro men , and 5. negro-women to buy about the first of march following , at 20 l. per negroe comes to 200 l. and in that month you will have planted cocao-trees out of the nuts , or seed , betwixt all the rows of the plantin-trees , that are 6. foot high ; so that by the first of june , the whole 21 acres that were planted the last year , will be full of cocao-trees , and by that time you will have ( besides much other work done ) 21. acres of cocao-trees in the ground ; which in less then 4. years , from the planting , will begin to bear cods , and in a year after , produce compleat cropps . and according to experience , an acre doth produce every year about 1000. pound weight ; which at jamaica is worth 4 l. per cent. which for the 21 acres , doth amount unto 840 l. per ann. although this last year , by reason their cropps were blasted , it is at present far dearer , the hundred weight at london being now worth 18. pound sterling . the charges of gathering and houseing the cocao , is inconsiderable , only cloths or baggs to put it in , which with some other incident charges , may be reckoned at the most ( as all things else have been ) to amount to 42. l. 15. s. more , which makes up just 500. l. note , that all this that is planted , is done in 15. months , and the cocao bears not compleatly until the sixth year from the first begining , or comming ; so that you will have four years and nine months at liberty with your servants , either to encrease the cocao-walk , building of convenient houses , and makeing of garidens for pleasure ; or else you may fall on ginger , indico , or some other commodity for present profit , which perhapps may be necessary for such as cannot forbear their money , until the cocao walk doth come to perfection as aforesaid : after which , you will find sufficient profit as is exprest , sickness , mortality , and running away excepted . yet it cannot be expected , but that as the island encreaseth in this commodity , they must some-what abate the present price , and content themselves with a more moderate gaines . and according to this calculation proportionably a greater or lesser cocao-walk may be undertaken , and performed . their cattle . in this isle are greater abundance of cattle then in most of the english plantations in america ; as horses , which are here so plentiful , that a good horse may be bought for 6 or 7 l. their cowes are very large , and so numerous , that although there hath been every year so many killed , yet their number seemeth not much to be lessoned . assnegroes and mules ( both wild and tame ) are very many , which are found to be very serviceable to the inhabitants . their sheep are large , and tall , and their flesh good , but their wool is long , hairy , and little worth . goats are many , which thrive exceedingly well , the countrey being very fit for them . hoggs are here in exceeding great plenty , as well those wild in the mountains , as tame in the plantations , whose flesh is far better tasted , and more nourishing and easier to be digested then those of england ; which is the reason that it is so much eaten in this island ; as indeed throughout the west-indies . their fish . this island hath both in the rivers , bayes , roads , and creeks , very excellent fish , and in such abundance that it contributes much to the feeding of the inhabitants ; and those that frequent this isle , say , that they have few or none of those sorts common to us in england ; but such great variety of those appropriated to the indies , that it would be too tedious to repeat the names of them , if they were known or remembred . the principal sort is the tortoise , which they take plentifully on the coast ; and about 20. or 30. leagues to the leeward of port negril , by the isles of camavos , in the months of may , june , and july , do resort great store of ships from the carribbee isles to victual and load with this fish , it being reputed to be the wholsomest and best provision in all the indies . their fowls . here are very great plenty of tame hens , turkies , and some ducks ; but of wild fowle infinite store , as ducks , teale , wigen , geese , turkeys , pigeons , guine-hens , plovers , flemingo's , snipes , parats , parachetos , with very many others , whose names are not known . the fruits . there are great plenty of choise and excellent fruits in this island , as oranges , pome-granates , cocar-nuts , limes , guavars , mammes , alumee-supotas , suppotillias , avocatas , cashues , prickle-aples , prickle-pears , grapes , sower-sops , custard-aples , dildowes , and many others whose names are not known , or too tedious to name , besides plantains , pines , &c. their herbes , and roots . here likewise grows very well , all manner of summer garden-herbs and roots common to us in england , as radish , lettis , purseley , cucumbers , melons , parsley , pot-herbs , also beanes , pease , cabbages , colly-flowers , &c. their diseases . it hath been experimentally found , that there is no such antipathy betwixt the constitutions of the english , and this clime , for the occasioning sickness to be mortal or contageous , more than in other parts ; for if a good dyet , and moderate exercises are used , without excess of drinking they may enjoy a competent measure of health . the diseases that strangers are most incident to , are dropsies ( occasioned often by ill diet , drunkeness , and slothfulness ) calentures too frequently the product of surfits , also feavers , and agues , which although very troublesome , yet are seldome mortal . and the reason of the great mortality of the army , at their first arrival , was their want of provisions , together with an unwillingness to labour or excercise , joyned with discontent . hurtful things . there are upon this island , very few obnoctious beasts , insects , or plants . here is the manchonele , which is a king of a crab , so common in all the caribbee isles . here are snakes , and guianas , but no poysonous quality is observed in them . in many of the rivers , and land-ponds , are alligators , which are very voracious creatures , yet seldome do they prey upon a man , as being very easy to be avoided , for he can only move forwards , and that he doth with great swiftness and strength , and is as slow in turning . some are 10 , 15 , or 20 foot long , their backs are scaly and impenetrable , so that they are hardly to be killed , except in the belly or eye . they have four feet or finns with which they go or swim . they are observed to make no kind of noise : and the usual course for the getting their prey , is to lie on the banks of rivers , and as any beast or fowle cometh to drink , they suddenly seize on them ; and the rather , for that they do so much resemble a long peece of dry wood , or some dead thing . and as these allegators are thus obnoctious on the one hand , so are they found to be useful on the other , for their fat is a sovereign oyntment for any internal ach or pain in the joynts , or bones . they have in them musk-codds , which are stronger scented then those of the east-indies , and by this their strong smell , they are discovered , and avoyded ; which ●s supposed the cattle by instinct of nature , are also sencible of , and do by that means often shun them . they lay eggs in the sand lay the water-side , which are no bigger than a turkeys , which they ●over , and by the heat of the sun , the young ones are hatched , who naturally creep into the water . here are also muskettoes and merry-wings , a sort of stinging flies that are troublesome in some parts of the isle , but are seldome found in the english plantations . their harbours , roads , and bays ▪ this island abounds with goo● bayes , roads , and harbours : th● principal amongst which are port-royal , formerly called cagway , situate on the extream en● of that long point of land whic● makes the harbour , which is e●ceeding commodious for shippin● and secured by one of the stronge●● and most considerable castles th●● his majesty hath in all americ● in which are mounted about 6● peeces of ordnance , and is we●● guarded with souldiers . it is land lock't by a point of land that run 12 miles south-east from the mai● of the island , having the great r●ver that runs by los angelos , and● st. jago falling into it , where ship● do commonly water , and conven●ently wood . the harbour is 2. or 3. leagues cross in most places , and hath every where good anchorage , which is so deep , that a ship of a 1000 tunn may lay her sides to the shore of the point , and load , and unload with planks a float : which commodiousness , doth make it to be the most frequented by men of war , and merchants ships of any in the island , and as much inhabited by the merchants , store-house-keepers , vintners , & alehouse-keepers , being the only noted place of trade in the isle , and doth contain ( since the english became masters of it ) about 800. houses , being about 12 miles and a half in length , and the houses are as dear-rented as if they stood in well-traded streets in london ; yet it 's situation is very unpleasant and uncommodious , having neither earth , wood , or fresh-water , but only made up of a hot loose sand , and being thus populous , and so much frequented , as well by strangers , as by the planters , in the negotiation of their affairs as being the scale of trade , provisions are very dear . this town or port is seated about 12 miles from the metrapolitan town of the island called st. jago , or st. jago de la vega , or the spanish town ; of which i shall treat anon . port-morant in the eastern point , a very capacious and secure harbour , where ships do conveniently wood , water , and ride safe from the windes , and about this place is a potent colony of the english seated . old-harbour westwards , from st. jago , a good bay for ships to ride in . point-negril in the extream western point , very good and sufficiently convenient , and secure to windward , in which men of war do often ply , when they look for the spanish ships , whence a little north-west , was seated the old town of melilla , founded by columbus , after the shipwrack there ; which was the 1st place that the spaniards setled at , and afterwards deserted . port-antonio seated on the north , a very safe land-lock't-harbour , only the coming in is somwhat difficult , the channel being narrowed by a little island that lies off the mouth of the port , being wholly taken up by the right honourable , charles earl of carlisle , visc . howard of morpeth , lord dacres of gilsland , lord lieutenant of the counties of cumberland and westmerland , and one of the lords of his majesties most honourable privy council , &c. here are several other good bayes , and harbours , along the coast of this island ; the names of which are set down in the map , amongst which , these are very commodious and good , viz. in the south-part michaels hole . micary bay. allegator pont. point pedro. pallate bay. lewana bay. blewfelds bay. cabaritaes bay. all very good and commodious bayes for ships . in the north-part porto-maria ora cabessa cold-harbour rio-nova montega-bay orang-bay all very good bays for shipping . the towns. there are at present but three towns of considerable note in the island , to wit , st. jago , or st. jago de-lavega seated 6 miles within the land north-west , in a plaine , by a river , and about 12. miles from port-royal already treated of , which makes another of the 3 towns. this town of st. jago when the spaniards were masters of the isle , was a large city , and of great account , containing about 2000 houses , and for divine worship , had 2 churches , 2 chappels , and an abbey ; which when the english first took the isle ( under the conduct of general venables ) were destroyed to about 4 or 500 houses , and its churches and chappels to a fewer number , & those that remained were sufficiently spoiled and haraced . but since the english have made a settlement , this towne is now of considerable account ; where the governour resideth , and where the chief courts of judicature are held , which makes it to be well resorted unto , and inhabited ; so that most of its ruinous houses are in a faire way of being repaired , and in hopes to arrive to a greater largeness then formerly it was , here being several fair and well built houses : and the inhabitants live in great pleasure , where they have their havana , in which the better sort recreate themselves every evening in their coaches , or an horse-back , as the gentry do here in hide park . passage seated on the mouth of the river , six miles distant from st. jago , and as many from port-royal , where there are about 20 houses , built for the conveniency of going to port-royal ; and here is a fort raised by the english , the better to secure the same . in the time of the spaniards , here were several other townes which are now of no account ; of which said townes , these three following were of most nore , viz. sevilla feared on the north part of the island , once beautified with a collegiate-church , whose chief bore the title of abbot : amongst whom was peter martyr , who described the history of the west-indies by decates . mellila seated in the north east , where columbus mended his ships at his return from veragua , where he was neer ship-wrackt . orista reguards the south-sea , in which are many rocks , and amongst their banks , some isles , as servavilla , quitosvena , and serrana , where augustin pedro serrana lost his vessel , and saved onely himself , and here in a solitary and lone condition passed away 3 yeares ; at the end of which time he had the company of a marriner for 4 years more , that was likewise there ship-wrackt , and also alone saved himself . and although there are for the present no more townes , yet the island is divided into 14 precincts , divisions , or parishes , which are set forth in the map ; many of which said precincts are well inhabited by the english , where they have very good plantations , especially all the southern part from point-morant in the east , almost to point-negrillo in the west , so far as the ridge or chain of mountaines that runneth in the midst of the isle ; nor are its northerns parts , ( especially near unto the sea ) without inhabitants and plantations , though not so thick as south-wardly about st. jago , but of late have much encreased . and for the better satisfying the reader , the parts throughout the island where the english have made their settlements , are marked and distinguished in the map by cyphers . i cannot certainely affirm the number of the english in this isle , but according to the last survey taken and returned into england some yeares since , by sr. thomas modiford , late governour , each precinct , or parish contained as followeth : a general account of the precincts , or parishes , families , and inhabitants in jamaica , taken by order of sir thomas modiford , then governour as aforesaid . parishes . families . inhabitants . port-royal 500 3500 st. katherines 658 6270 st. johns 083 996 st. andrews 194 1552 st. davids 080 960 st. thomas 059 590 clarindon 143 1430   1714 15298 note , that the four parishes on the north-side of the isle , to witt , st. george's , st. maries , st. annes , and st. james , as also the leeward most parish called st. elizabeth , together with these two not named , both adjoyning on st. elizabeths ; the one eastwards , and the other northwards , was not as then so particularly surveyed , by reason of their distance , and new settlements , nevertheless they were found according to calculation , to amount to about 2000 inhabitants . but all these parts , as also those seven aforenamed are now exceedingly encreased , being supposed to be encreased to double , if not treble the number . and the great encouragement of gaining riches , with a pleasant life , doth invite every year abundance of people to inhabite here , quitting their concerns at barbadoes , and other our american plantations ; so that in a short time without doubt it will become the most potent and richest plantation in the west-indies . and besides the aforesaid number of inhabitants in the said 14 precincts or parishes , there are reckoned to belong to the island ; of privateers , hunters , sloop and boatmen ( which ply about the isle ) at the least 3000 lusty and stout fighting men , whose courage hath been sufficiently evidenced in their late exploit , and attempt made against the spaniards at panama . their lawes their lawes are assimulated ( as near as may be ) to those of england , having their several courts ▪ magistrates , and officers , for the executing of justice on criminal offenders , and the hearing and determination of causes or controversies betwixt party , and party . having thus made a short desscription of the island , as to its scituation , fertility , commodities , harbours , towns , and precincts , with an estimate of the number of its inhabitants : in the next place , i shall give you the state of the isle , when the spaniards were possessors thereof ; and wind up my discourse with some seasonable considerations relating to the english affairs in america , with reasons to justifie the first design in taking it , and why his majesty should keep and support it . and of these in order . the state of the spaniards in this island , the spaniards first setled on the north-west part of the isle , under the conduct of columbus , and built the town of mellila , but disliking the scituation , removed to oristana ; and finding that also to be ill seated , and unhealthful , again removed , and setled at st. jago , or st. jago de la vega , where , with the assistance of the indians , they built a fair town or city , which i have already treated of . and in this town inhabited all the spaniards that were in the isle at the landing of the english , keeping their slaves at their several small plantations , or stanchas , who failed not to bring them store of fruits & provisions , which they luxuriously spent in their houses , never intending any thing but to live at ease and plenty : for on this large and fertile island , there was no manufacture or commodity made , except a little sugar , tabacco , and cocao , and those few ships that came hither , traded generally for hydes , tallow , jamaica pepper , and cocao , but not to any considerable account . and the number of inhabitants did not exceed 3000 , of which , half ( if not more ) were slaves . and the reason why it was so thinly peopled , was , because the spaniards generally desire to be in nova hispana , or hispaniola ; but chiefly , because this isle was held ▪ in proprietership , by the heirs of the duke of veragua-columbus , who received the revenues , and placed governours , as absolute lord of it . and at the first , it was planted by a kind of portugals , the society of whom , the spaniards abhors . upon the approach of the english-army after their landing , the inhabitants of st. jago deserted the town , and betook themselves to the mountains , pretending a treaty with the english , untill such time as they had secured their women and goods , and then did they make several attempts , and upon surprisals , murthered many of the english ; but the spaniards soon growing weary of that wild and mountainous course of life , perceiving small hopes of expelling the english , divers of the grandees got into cuba , who by the vice-roy of alexico's order , were commanded back , with a promise of a speedy and considerable supply of men ; upon which they returned , somwhat encouraged , and dispersed themselves by families , that they might the better get provisions , and avoid the being discovered by the english ; but this necessitous and unusual course of life , killed many of them , and discouraged the rest ; for that in all this time there came to their succour , but too souldiers , and those refused to joyn with them , as being so few and sickly ; so that they marched back to the north of the island , and at a place called st. chereras , did fortify themselves , every day expecting a new body of men to joyn with them : but the english discovering their quarters , marched against them . some few months after , about 30 small companies of the spanish forces arrives , and immediately very strongly fortify rio nova , having ordnance , and great store of ammunition , yet were they speedily and succesfully defeated by the valour of the english under the conduct of leiutenant general edw. d'oyley . and this grand disaster , with many petty ill successes caused the spaniards to dispair of regaining the island , and to ship off most of their plat●● and women ; and the negroes finding the greatest part of their masters to be dead , killed the governour , and declined all obedience to the spaniards , appointing a black for their governour . and such was the necessity of the spaniards , that instead of giving them fitting correction , they were constrained to court them for their assistance ; but all their policy would not prevail upon them , for soon after did they submitt to the english goverment , and made discoveries of the spaniards and negroes that would not come in with them , and did further assist the english in the taking of them , in which they have been exceeding succesful . in the year following , the spaniards quite deserted the island , except it were about 30 or 40 of their slaves , who betook themselves to the mountaines , but being afraid of a discovery , and to be pursued to death for some murthers they had committed , built themselves conoas , and in them fled to cuba , and never since hath any considerable attempt been made upon them . the english being thus become masters of the island , formed themselves into a body , or colony : then did they they begin to settle themselves in plantations , whilst others betook themselves to the sea as freebooters or privateers , the better to secure themselves against the spaniards , and force them to a peace by their frequent annoying them , in seizing such their ships which they could meet with , which proved very succesful unto them . and this caused the isle to be much talked of , and had in esteem by the english , who sent them supplies of men , provisions , and necessaryes . and thus by little and little it became to be so potent as now it is . governours since the english were masters of the island . this island ( since the english have been masters of it ) hath had four governours . the first , leiutenant general edward d'oyley , who before his majesties happy restauration , was commander in cheif of all the english army by land and sea in america . the second , the right honourable thomas lord winsor , who is now lord leiutenant of the county of worcester . the third , sr. thomas modyford baronet . and the fourth , and present , sr. thomas lynch knight . some considerations relating to the english affaires in america , with reasons to justify the first designe into the indies . spaniards would never contract a peace with the english in america . they have alwayes taken our merchants ships sayling on these coasts , or forced them into their harbours by distress of weather . in the reign of our late king ( when we had peace with them throughout europe ) they sacked st. christophers , mevis , providence , s ta . cruz , and tortugas , murthering and carrying away most of the inhabitants into slavery ; for which they never made any repairation . the indians , who are the natural proprietors of america , do abominate and hate the spaniards for their cruelty and avarice ; and upon every occasion will shew their willingness to give themselves and their countreys , freely into the power and protection of the english . the pretented first discovery cannot give them a legal power over the genuine right of the natives , nor were they the first discoverers of all those countreys that they pretend unto . the popes donation is of little validity , for he hath given them the crown of england , which of the two he might more legally do , then the indies ; for that the english have been subject to his power , the indians never . possession is not of force to create ( thought it confirms ) a right , nor can it so alter the property , as to make usurpation ( for some time to continue ) as a legal , and just pretence of dominion . it is against the fundamental lawes of spain to make a peace , and allow of a trade into the indies ; now there being no medium , war must needs be justifyable where a peace is not allowable . their barbarous cruelty in compelling our merchants , and others which they have took prisoners , to turn their religion , and to work at their forts and mines at mexico , and elsewhere , from whence they can never return , murthering divers , when upon a treaty , and after promise of fair quarter , and not exchanging or ransoming any , although the english have freely given them some hundreds of prisoners , doth sufficiently justify any attempt or mischief we can do against them , either in seizing on their ships , or the landing on their countreys , and the sacking , burning , or taking their towns and countreys , and the dispossessing them thereof . some considerations why his majesty should keep , preserve , and support this island . jamaica is large , and capacious , whose extent i have already noted ; so that it is capable of receiving very great numbers of people . it is seated in the heart of the spaniards american territories ; so that the spanish shipps coming into the west-indies , and sayling from port to port , either make this isle , or may be immediately met by the ships which ply on this coast , which renders it to be of great importance to us , as well as to the spaniards : for all the plate fleet which comes from carthagena , steer directly from st. domingo in hispaniola , and from thence must pass by one of the ends of this isle to recover havana , which is the common rendevouze of the armado , before it returns home through the gulph of florida . nor is there any other way whereby to miss this isle , because they cannot in a reasonable time turn it up to the windward of hispaniola , which , though with great difficulty , it might be done , yet by this means they would loose the security of the said united fleet , which meet at havana , from all parts of the bay of mexica , nombre de dios , and elsewhere , and so accompany each other home . jamaica is found to precede all the english plantations in america , in the very commodities that are proper to their several colonies , and produceth also of its own cocao , hydes , tortoise-shells , wood for dyers , gums , druggs , and other commodities already treated of ; and for fruits , fowl , and fish , infinite store , many of which are unknown unto them . likewise , such abundance of horses , and cowes , that none other of the english blantations can equalize them . and as this island is found thus advantageous in the furnishing us with such good commodities , so is it no less profitable in the taking off our manufactures , and commodities , as well of the product of this kingdom , as those from forreign parts . that is to say , all sorts of stuffs , fabricks of silks , linnen both fine and course , hatts , gloves , thread , tape , pinns , needles , stockings , shoos ; all sorts of apparel ; wine , brandy , strong-beer ; all sorts of utensils of iron , and other mettals for carpenters , joyners , smiths , coopers , mill-wrights , and other the like tradesmen , that are found useful for the planters service , also , iron , brass , copper , steel , lead and tinn unwrought ; all sorts of armes and ammunition : also , servants , and negro-slaves : and in a word , all commodities that are necessary , and usefull either for the back or belly , are here vendible . and is observed , that the better the commodities are ( especially apparrel and ornaments for the back ) the sooner and better are they vended . 4 it appears to be a place of no small concernment , for it hath not only subsisted at the beginning , but bettered its condition , being setled by an army ( the worst kind of people to plant ) that have had such grand discouragements from england , as want of pay , provisions , and recruits of men ; yet amongst themselves talked of all encouragements to plant , the establishment of justice and government , besides , the frequent attempts of the spanish forces ; and if it thus thrived under these , and such like considerable obstructions , it is more then propable , it will in a short time become a great and profitable colony both to the king and kingdome ; for when well planted , it may bring into his majesty some hundred thousand pownds per annum . barbadoes ( which is so little compared to this ) yeilding about 10000 l. per annum , and employing about 150 or 200 sayl of ships yearly . this island being so large and so fertile , it is capable of the receiving those great numbers of people , that are forced to desert the caribbee isles : their plantations being worn out , and their woods wasted ; as likewise those multitudes of vagrants and beggars that are so great a charge and shame to the kingdom , if transported thither , ( would by their labours ) live both honestly , and plentifully ; here being observed to be no beggars , nor such loose vagabond people . this island being well setled , will be capable of it self to carry on a war against the spaniards in the west-indies ( as occasion requireth ) because of the conveniences of its ports , and its strength of inhabitants and shipping , having already about 20 or 30 sayl of privateers ; and will in a short time be so numerous and potent , that they will become so obnoxious to the spaniards , that probably they will rather admit of a trade into his ports ( which would prove a grand advantage both to them , and this kingdom ) than suffer so disadvantageous a war. and having thus forced a trade , would gain the acquaintance of the natives , and learn their customes , and method of trade , being much inclined to love the english rather than the spaniards . jamaica seems to be approved above any of the other plantations , in regard so many from all the english collonyes have transported themselves and their estates to it , who like it so well , that they have no cause or desire to remove . there is now a considerable progress made in the setling of this isle , there being upon it many plantations of cocao , sugar , indico , cotton , and provisions ; and inhabited with many thousand of of people . the planters ( for the generality ) now living in great delight , and enjoy all things necessary for food and rayment in a liberal measure ; and were it well inhabited , it would very much consume the english manufactures , and encourage navigation and merchandize . it cannot be imputed a disadvantage , that jamaica lyeth so far off , for thereby are more ships employed ; and by consequence , more saylors , shipwrights , rope-makers , and many other tradesmen maintained , whose dependance is thereon . furthermore , if it lay not so far , we could not expect such commodities as it produceth , being appropriate to the clyme ; neither is it a small advantage to have such commodities within his majesties dominions ( though at a distance ) that are both valued and needed by his subjects and neighbours , especially the cocao . and lastly , to conclude , the english have one more considerable advantage by this isle , and that is , the coast of virginia , being subject to gusts of winde , the ships loaden with goods and passengers , have been often forced forth to sea , and so disabled , that they could not ply to any of the outward caribbee islands , but have been constrained to bear up , and put into the spanish leeward ports ; and likewise , some of our merchants have been forced out of the caribbee isles by hurricane's ( which are there common ) and so disabled , that they could not keep sea , but ( as all vessels thus distressed ) have put into some of the spanish leeward ports , where they have alwayes , been made prizes . now , jamaica being so far leeward , is a convenient harbour for all vessels thus distressed ; and did some few years since save three virginia ships full of passengers and goods , and formerly others ; as also some driven by hurricanes from the windward islands : all which , without the conveniency , and assistance of this isle , had perished . map of barbados a description of the island of barbadoes . barbadoes the most considerable colony the english hath amongst that frye of isles called the caribbee isles , or the antilles . it s scituation . it is seated in the north latitude of 13 degrees , and 20 min. and although but of a small circuit , ( being accounted not above 8 leagues in length , and 5 in breadth where broadest , being of an oval form ) yet is it a potent colony , being able as occasion requireth , to arm 10000 fighting men , which , with the strength that nature hath bestowed on it , it is able to bid defiance to the stoutest foe , having been several times ( but in vain ) assaulted by the spaniards . its rivers . this isle is not over-plentifully watered with rivers , or fresh springs , there being but one that may appropriate to it self that name , or rather a lake , which runneth not far into the land ; yet notwithstanding , the inhabitants are not destitute thereof , for the countrey lying low , and for the most part even , there are several pools or ponds ; besides , most houses have wells or cisterns which are always supplyed with rain-water . here is also a river , which the inhabitants call the tuigh-river , from the top of whose waters is gathered an oyl , which serveth them to burn in lamps . it s fertility . this isle is exceeding fertile , bearing crops all the year long , and its trees being always cloathed in their summer livery , and the fields and woods in their verdure , renders it very delightful to the inhabitants . but the two principal seasons of the year for planting , is in may , and november , but the sugar-canes are planted all the year round , the making of which , is not only very chargeable , but also as dangerous , and subject to casualties , either in the boyling-house , with the coppers and furnaces ; in the filling-room , in the still-house , or in the cureing-house . its commodities . the commodities that this isle produceth , are sugars , ( which though not so white as those of brazile , yet better when refined , being of a fairer grain ) indico , cotten , wool , ginger , logwood , fustick , and lignum-vitae . and these commodities , especially sugar , indico , cotton , and ginger , are here in such great abundance , that about 200 sayl of ships and vessels , both great and small , have yearly their loading ; which after imported in the several ports of england , and ireland , is again in great quantities exported to forreign parts , to our great enrichment ; and the rather , for that they are not permitted to trade with any other nation but the english , and such of his majesties subjects in new-england , virginia , and bermudoes : and in exchange of those commodities , they take such as are necessary for the use of man , as well for the back and belly , as for their houses , and plantations ; with many of which , they are supplyed from new-england , virginia , and the bermudoes ; together with servants , and slaves , as i have noted at the latter end of the description of jamaica , about page 73. together with several sorts of commodities and provisions , which jamaica hath no occasion of , as horses , camels , assinegroes , cattel ; also salted flesh and fish of several sorts ; butter and cheese ; but by reason of the great heat of the weather , it will soon stink , and become unfit to eat ; so that instead of butter , they make great use of oyl for their sauces . the dayes and nights are almost thorowout the year , of an equal length , the sun rising and setting at 6. except about october , and then there is some small difference . the temperature of air. this isle is very hott , especially for 8 months , yet not so , but that travel , and labour is sufferable ; but were it not for the cool breezes of winde which riseth with the sun , and bloweth fresher as the sun mounteth up , it would be unsufferable . and these breezes always blow from north-east , and by east , unless it be in the time of the turnado , and then for a few hours it chopps into the south , but returns to the same point again . and it is observed , that although the people do so much sweat , yet they have not that faintness as with us , in the months of july and august ; neither are they so thirsty , without occasioned by excess of labour , or drinking of strong liquors , which the people are here too much addicted unto , to their great hurt , which if moderately taken , would be as great a preservative to comfort their inward parts , which are left cold , and faint , through their sweating . besides , our bodies being accustomed to colder climates , our spirits are not so vigorous without them in a moderate manner . the air , though hot , is very moist , which causeth all iron-tools , as knives , swords , locks , keys , &c. to rust , so that without constant usage , they will soon become eaten up with rust . and this great heat and moisture , doth cause the plants and trees to grow so large , and high . their fruits . here are abundance of fruits of several sorts , as dates , orenges of two sorts , the one sweet , and the other sharp , pomgranates , citrons , limes , lemons , macows , grapes , juneper-apples , papayers , momins , monbains , acajous , icacos , cherries , raysins , indian figgs , cocos , plantins , bonanoes , guavers , prickle-apples , prickle-pears , custard-apples , millons , both land and water , and pine-apples , the rarest fruit in the indies . their fish . here are great store of fish in the sea , as snappers , crabs , lobsters , terbums , macquerels , mullots , cavallos , parrat-fish , cony-fish , and green turtles , which of all others are the most delicious , with several other sorts appropriated to this and the rest of the caribbee isles . but the rivulets , or ponds , have few or no fish in them . their beasts . here are no beasts or cattel but what are tame , and brought them ; as camels , horses , assinegroes , oxen , bulls , cowes , sheep , and goats , and hoggs , which are here in great plenty in every plantation , it being their common food , whose flesh is esteemed very good and delicious ; but as for beef , and mutton , it is very dear , as having but a small stock , but might be soon encreased , would they spare ground enough for pasturage for them from their other occasions . their herbs and roots . here groweth divers sorts of english hearbs , and roots , as rosemary , lavender , lavender-cotton , mar●erom , winter-savory , time , parsley , tansey , sage , purcelane , &c. and for roots , cabages , colworths , collyflowers , turnips , potatoes , onyons , garlick , radishes , lettice , taragon , marigolds , &c. their birds and fowles . here are several sorts of fowles , as turkeys , hens , muscovy-ducks , pigeons , turtle-doves , &c. and for small birds , great variety ; as thrushes , black-birds , sparrows , &c. their insects and animals . here are several animals , and insects , as snakes a yard and a half long , scorpions as big as rats , but no wayes hurtful to man or beast ; lizzards , which are exceeding harmless , much frequenting the houses , and loving the company of men ; musketoes , cockroches , and merriwings , which are very troublesome in the night in stinging ; also , here are land-crabs in great abundance , which are found good to eat . and here is a small fly which they call cayouyou , whose wings in the night , as it flyeth , casts forth a great lustre , and the indians do commonly catch them , and tye them to their hands or feet , and make use of them instead of a candle , which is forbidden them . their trees . here are great variety of trees . fit for several uses , as the locust , mastick , red-wood , the prickled-yellow-wood , the ironwood-tree , and the cedar tree , which are fit for building . also , the cassia , fistula , coloquintida , tamarine , cassavie , of which is made their bread ; the poyson-tree , and the phisick-nut , these have a physical , and some a poysonous vertue in them . also , here are these trees following , the calibash , the shell of whose fruit , serveth to carry liquid things in , being of the nature of goards ; the mangrass-tree , which is of an exceeding greatness ; the roucou , of whose bark is made ropes , as also flax , which being spun , is employed to several uses ; the lignum-vitae , the palmeto , which is very large , and beautiful to behold ; with several others . several caves . in this island are divers caves , some of which are very deep , and large enough to hold 500 men ; and these caves are often the sanctuaries of such negro-slaves that run away , in which they oft-times lie a good while ere found out , seldome stirring in the day-time , although they are such unwholesome places , by reason of the great damps that are found in them . and it is supposed , that these caves were the habitations of the natives . it s division and towns. this island is severed into eleven precincts , or parishes , in which are 14 churches and chappels , and here are many places which may not unaptly be called townes , as being composed of a long and spacious street , which are beautified with fair houses ; and indeed the whole isle for these many years , is so taken up with planters ( there being no wast ground to be found ) that it is thorowout beset with houses , at no great distance from one another . it s chief townes . 1. st. michaels formerly called the bridg-town , or indian-bridg , scituate at the bottome of carlisle-bay in the leeward , or southern part of the isle , which bay is very capacious , deep , and secure for ships , being large enough to entertain 500 vessels at one time , the town is long , containing several streets , and graced with abundance of well-built houses . it is very populous , being the residence of the governour , or his deputy , the place of judicature , and the scale of trade , where most of the merchants , and facttors in the isle have their storehouses for the negotiation of their affairs ; and from these storehouses or shops , the inhabitants are supplyed with such commodities as they have occasion of , in exchange of theirs , which are the product of of the isle . the town is ill seated , the ground being lower than the banks of the sea , by which means the spring tides doth flow over , and there remaining , doth make a kind of of a moorish bogg , which doth occasion it to be more unhealthful than the other parts of the isle . this town for its defence , and security of the ships , hath two strong forts opposite to each other , with a platform in the midst , which also commands the road , all which are well fortifyed with great guns , &c. the principal of these forts is called charles fort , being seated on nedhams point . 2. little bristol , formerly sprights bay , scituate about four leagues leeward from st. michaels , hath a commodious road for ships , is a place well frequented , and traded unto , and is strongly defended by two powerful forts . 3. st. james , formerly called the hall , seated not far from bristol , hath the accommodation of a good road for ships , and is a place of a considerable trade , for its defence , besides a large platform , hath fortified breast-works ; and in this town is kept for the precinct , the monthly courts . 4. charles-town , seated windeward of st. michaels , about two leagues : and on oyster-bay , it is secured by two strong forts , the one to the windward , and the other to the leeward , of the town and road , with a platform in the midst . this town hath the accomodation of weekly markets , and here is kept the monthly courts for the precinct . the other parishes are of less note . other places on the sea-coast . other places of name along the sea-coast of this isle , begining easterly , and so encompassing the isle , are as followeth : fowl-bay , austins-bay , maxwells-bay , where there is a small isle , blackrock , the hole , spikes-bay , balises-bay , long-bay , clarks-bay , and constance-bay . the inhabitants . the inhabitants of this isle may be ranged under 3 heads or sorts , to witt , masters , ( which are english , scotch , and irish , with some few dutch , french , and jews ) christian servants , and negro-slaves . and these three sorts are exceeding numerous ; for , according to a calculation not long since made , the masters , and servants , did amount to about 50000 , and the negroes to about double the number . the masters , for the most part , live at the height of pleasure the servants , at the expiration of 5 years , become freemen of the island , and employ their times according to their abilities , and capacities ; either to get a small plantation , or to work at day-labour in other plantations , or else to exercise their trades , if so capacitated . the negro-slaves are never out of their bondage , and the children they get , are likewise perpetual slaves . they have but mean allowance of dyet , cloaths , and lodging ; and although held to such hard labour , and so ill treated , yet are they well contented with their conditions ; and if their master is but any thing kind , they think nothing too much to be done for them ; and therefore 't is great pity to wrong such poor creatures . the chiefest stock of a planter , consists in his servants and slaves , but especially the slaves , who are more numerous . and these they buy on shipboard , as men buy horses in a fayr , and according as they are handsome , lusty , well-shapen , and young , either the men or women , they give more or less ; the general rates for the christian-servants being about 10 l. but if one that hath a good trade , as a carpenter , joyner , smith , or the like , then far more : likewise , a female that is young and handsome , is highe● valued . the general rate for the better sort of negro-men , is 20 l. or 25 sl . sterling ; and for women , about 15 l. for the encrease of stock of negroes , they generally take as many men as women . the maintenance of the servants and slaves . the maintenance of the servants , and negro-slaves , as to their dyet , apparrel , and lodging , is very inconsiderable . for their food , they are contented from weeks-end , to weeks-end , with potatoes , loblolly , made of beaten maize mixt with water ; cassader-bread common in all the indies , bonavist , and such like food that the plantation affordeth ; as for meat , they are seldome troubled with it , except at christmas , easter , and whitsontide , and they have hoggs-flesh , according to the custome of the island ; but of late , the servants are allowed weekly , a small quantity of swines-flesh , or salted flesh , or fish ; and when any of the cattle dye of any distemper , or by accident , it is given to the negroes , who feed like princes on it . their drinks are mobbie , made of potatoes soaked in water ; perino , made of casavie-root and water ; crippo , kill-devil , punch , made of water and sugar ; plantin-drink , made of plantins and water ; beveridge , made of spring-water , sugar , and the juyce of orenges ; and wine of pines , which is only made of the juyce of the fruit , which is exceeding good and delicious ; but this sort , as also the beveridge , and punch , the servants are not much troubled with . but as for the master-planters , merchants , factors , and strangers , their faire is far otherwise , having their curious-made dishes , as custards , cheese-cakes , tansies ; also , sturgeon , anchoves , caviare , botardo , neates-tongues , besides poultrey , fish , fowl , mutton , beef , kid , porke , beans , pease , several roots , and other good dishes . and , besides the several sorts of liquors already named , wines , strong waters , brandy , and english-beer ; so that they find no want , and do not consider the condition of those poor wretches , their servants and slaves , who are constrained to so hard a labour . the apparrel they allow their servants yearly , for the men , are 6 pair of drawers , 12 pair of shoos , 3 monmouth-caps , 6 shirts ; and for the women , 4 smocks , 3 petticoats , 4 coifes , and 12 paire of shoos , besides , a rug-gown to each , to keep them warm , in the night , and to put on them when they come sweating from their labour . to the negro-men , they allow but 3 pair of canvas-drawers , and to the women , but three petticoats . but for themselves ( especially the better sort ) they are exceeding profuse and costly . the lodging of these poor wretches is worst of all , for having laboured all the day in so hot a countrey , without any nourishing dyet , at night they must be contented to lye hard , on nothing but a board , without any coverled , in their hutts , or rather hogsties ; but christian servants are something better treated , being allowed hamocks . every sunday , ( which is the only day of rest , and should be set apart for the service of god ) they employ either in the getting of the bark of trees , and making of ropes with it , which they truck away for shirts , drawers , and the like ; or else spend the day in recreation , as dancing , and wrestling , which they much delight in , though they are no great proficients in either ; for in their dancing , they use antick actions , their hands having more of motion than their feet ; and their head , than either ; nor do the men and women dance together , but apart ; the musique to which they dance , being a sort of kettle-drums , one bigger than another , which makes a strange and various noise , but whither harmonious , i leave to the judgment of the reader . it is thought by many , that the christians should be in danger of being murthered by the negro-slaves , who so much over-top them in number , and the rather , for that they are so cruelly used , and for that reason , many are fearful to venture to dwell here . but this objection may be thus answered ; that first , they are such as were brought from several parts of africa , and do not understand one anothers language ; and then they are stir'd up with an inb-read hatred against one another , it being the custome in those parts , for several petty kings to go to wars against one another ; and the prisoners that are taken of each side , they sell unto us , and other european nations that come to traffique with them ; also , they are not permitted to touch , nay , hardly to see a gun , or any other weapon ; and being kept in such a slavery , they are fearful of begining such an insurrection , it being present death for any that shall in the least be found to act , or contrive such a thing . the management of a plantation , ought to be the masters care , yet few of them ( except those of the meaner degree ) are without their overseers , who takes off that trouble from them , whose office is to call them to work by the ring of a bell , at 6 a clock in the morning , to appoint them their sevesal works , to give them due correction upon any misdemeanour , or idleness ; he likewise dismisses them at 11 a clock , to go to their dinner , and calls them again by one a clock by the said bell , and dischargeth them at 6 at night . what i have said in this treatise of barbadoes concerning their servants , and slaves , may be said in that of jamaica ; for the servants , and slaves , are their greatest stock ; those they buy , the servants for a tearm of years , the negroes for ever ; their apparrel which they allow to either being much the same , but their dyet better ; and for their labour , it may be said to be much the same , the island producing the same commodities . the island of barbados very strong . this island is very strong , as well by nature as art , being sheltered with rocks , and shoals ; and where nature hath not thus defended it , it is fortified by trenches and rampiers , with pallisadoes , curtains , and counter-scarfes ; besides , round about the isle , reguarding the sea , is standing wood : here are also , for its further defence , 3 forts , one for a magazine for the ammunition , and powder to lye in , and the other two for places of retreats , as occasion serveth . they have also for their further security , a standing militia , consisting of two regiments of horse , and five of foot , which are stout , and well-disciplined men , and alwayes to be ready on beat of drum. the government of this isle . this isle is governed by lawes assimulated to those of england , for all matters either civil , ecclesiastick , criminal , maritine , or martial ; yet not without some few lawes appropriate to themselves , which are not repugnant to the lawes of england . for the execution of these lawes , they have their courts of judicature . the law is administred by the governour , or his deputy , and ten of his council . the isle is divided into four circuites , in each of which , there is an inferiour court for civil causes , from which , appeals may be made to the supream court. here are also justices of the peace , constables , church-wardens , and tything-men . and for the administration of justice , here are yearly 5 sessions . at the governours pleasure , he calleth an assembly for the making of new lawes , ( so , as not contrary to those of england ) and for the abolishing of old ; which said assembly is much in the nature of our parliament , and doth consist of the governour as supream , his ten council as so many peers , and two burgesses , chosen by the commonalty out of each of the parishes . the present governour is the right hon. william willoughby , baron willoughby of parham . as concerning the nature of the sugar-canes , how to plant them , their growth , cutting , grinding , boyling ; the conveyance of the skimmings into the cisterns , how to distill it for spirits ; how long it stayes in the cureing-house , before it be good muscovado-sugar ; together with the making it into whites , is not my business in this small treatise , to give the reader instructions therein , referring to mr. richard ligons book of the description of this isle . a description of the island of st. christophers . st . christophers , so called from christopher columbus , the first discoverers thereof , scituate in the latitude of 17 degrees , and 25 min. in circuite , about 75 miles : the land lieth high and mountainous in the midst , from which springeth several rivers , which oft-times , by reason of the raines that falleth down the mountaines , are overflown to the detriment of the inhabitants . the soyl , commodities , &c. the soyl is light and sandy , and very apt to produce several sorts of fruits , provisions , and commodities ; as sugar , tobacco , cotton , ginger , &c. this isle , by reason of its several great and steepy mountains , between which , are springs of hot , and sulphurous water , with horrid precipices , and thick woods , renders it very impassable through the midst : and the steepy ascents of the mountains , are divided into several stages , or stories , where are spacious wayes . on the sea-side there is a salt-pit called gul-desac , and not far from the said salt-pit , there is a small istmus of land , which reacheth within a mile and a half of the island of nievis , or mevis . this island is a place exceeding delightful , and of a most delectable prospect to the eye of the beholder ; for if the eye be directed downwards , from the top , it hath a prospect of curious gardens , which gently descend to the sea-side ; and in reguard of the continual ascent of the isle , the lower stage or story , doth not debar the eye of the pleasant prospect of that which lyeth at a remoter distance , which is terminated by those high mountains : and that which maketh the prospect the more delectable in the several plantations ( which are bounded with rows of trees alwayes in their verdure ) are the fair houses covered with glazed slate . the division of the isle , and how possessed . the whole isle is divided into four quarters or cantons , two of which , are possessed by the english , and two by the french ; which parts are not so well watered , as those of the english , but are better for tillage , and not so hilly . the english are more populous then the french , and have two fortified places , one commanding the great haven , and the other a descent not far from pointe de sable . the french have four strong forts , of which one hath regular works like a cittadel , that of most note commands the haven , and is called basse-terre . both the english , and the french , keep constant guard at their forts , placed at the entrance of the paths which leads to the several wards , for the better security of each other . here are five churches in those parts belonging to the english , viz. one at sandy-point , one at palme-tree , another near the great road , and two at the inlet of cayoune , with many fair structures . the french , besides their several habitations , dispersed up and down in their quarters , have at basse-terre ( near the haven where ships lye at anchor ) a town of a good bigness , whose houses are well built , of brick , freestone , and timber ; where the merchants have their store-houses , and is well inhabited by tradesmen , and are well served with such commodities , both for the back , and belly , together with utensils for their houses , and plantations , as they have occasion of , in exchange of such commodities which are the product of the island . here is a fair , and large church , as also a publique-hall , for the administration of justice : here is also a very fair hospital , built by the general , for such people that cannot get cure at their houses ; where they are well maintained and attended by doctors , and physitians , for the recovery of their healths . here is also a stately castle , being the residence of the governour , most pleasantly seated , at the foot of a high mountain , not far from the sea , having spacious courts , delightful walks , and gardens , and enjoyeth a curious prospect . a description of the island of nievis , or mevis . the island of nievis , or mevis , lyeth not far from st. christophers , as i have before noted , and in the latitude of seventeen degrees , and nineteen minutes . it is but small , being not above eighteen miles in circuite . there is but one mountain in the isle , and that is seated in the midst , which is of a great height , but of an easy access , and cloathed with trees from its somett to the bottom ; and about this mountain , are the plantations which reach to the sea-shore . springs of water . here are divers springs of fresh-water , and one spring of a hott and mineral water ; not far from whose spring-head are baths made , which are much frequented for the curing of several distempers of the body of man. it is indifferent fertile , and hath store of deer , and other game for hunting . the isle is inhabited by about three or four thousand , who live well , and drive a trade for such things as they have occasion for , by exchanging such commodities as the isle produceth ; as , sugar , cotton , ginger , tobacco , &c. it is a well-governed colony , where justice is duly administred , and all vices severely punished . for the worship of god , here are three churches ; and for its further defence , and safety , it hath a fort , whereon are mounted several peeces , for the security of the ships in the road , or harbour , called bath-bay , as also the the publique store-house . this isle , as the rest of the caribbee's , are troubled with muscheto's , chigos , murigoins , and other stinging flyes , which do much annoy the inhabitants . a description of the island of antego . the island of antego , is seated in the latitude of 16 degrees and 11 min. it is in length , about six , or seven leagues , and about the same breadth in many places . it is of a difficult access , and very dangerous for shipping , by reason of the rocks which encompass it . it hath some few springs of fresh-water , besides which , the inhabitants , which are about 8 or 900. have made several cisterns , and ponds , for the preserving of rain-water . the isle doth abound in fish , amongst which , is the sword-fish which of all others , would be the chief in the sea. here are great plenty of most sorts of wild fowl , and not wanting in venison , and tame cattle . the commodities that it affordeth , are sugar , indico , ginger , tobacco , &c. the lord propriator of this isle is , the rt. hon. will. l d. willowby of parham , who is governour of the island of barbadoes , and some other isles . a description of the island of st. vincent . the island of st. vincent , lyeth in the latitude of sixteen degrees . it is about 20 miles in length , and fifteen in breadth , of a fertile soyl , yielding abundance of sugar-canes ; which grow naturally without planting . it is well watered with rivers , and affordeth many safe roads , and convenient bayes , for shipping . the english have here some settlement , but are not very powerful . a description of the island of dominica . this isle is seated in the latitude of fifteen degrees and a half . it is about 12 leagues in length , and 8 in breadth . on the west side of the isle , there is a convenient harbour for ships . it is very montainous , yet not without many fertile valleys , producing several commodities , but chiefly tobacco , which is planted by the english ; but the natives which are canibals , and very barbarous , doth much hinder the comming of the english to settle here . a description of the island of montserrat . montserrat , an island of a small extent , not exceeding ten miles in length , and of a less breadth . it is seated in the latitude of 17 degree : it is much inclined to mountains , which are well cloathed with caedar , and other trees and the valleys , and plains ar● very fertile . this isle is most inhabited by the irish , who have here a church for divine worship . a description of the island of angvilla . this isle is seated in the latitude of eighteen degrees , and one and twenty minutes . it extendeth it self in length , about ten leagues , and in breadth about three . the inhabitants are english , which are computed to amoun● unto two or three hundred , who are but poor , the isle being said not to be worth the keeping . a description of the island of barbada . barbada , or barboude , scituate in the latitude of of seventeen degrees and a half . it is an isle of no great extent , not exceeding fifteen miles in length , nor is it of any considerable account to the english , who are the possessors of it : yet is it found to be of a fertile soyl , and to be well stored with cattle , sheep , &c. and may produce several good commodities , were it well managed , to the advantage of the inhabitants . a description of the isles of bermvdes , or , the summer-isles . east of virginia , and carolina , which is a part of florida , lyeth the isles of bermudes ; so called , from john bermudes a spaniard , by whom they were first discovered . they are also called the summer-isles , from the shipwrack that one george summers ( an english-man ) there suffered . these isles lye distant from england , about 15 or 1600 leagues , from madera , 1000 , or 1200 ; from hispaniola , 400 ; and from carolina , which is the neerest part of land , about 300 leagues . their extent . of these isles , the greatest called st. georges , is 5 or 6 leagues long , and almost thorowout , not above a quarter , a third , or half a league broad , the others are much less . their form , &c. all these isles together , form a body like a cressent , and inclose very good ports , the chief among which , are those of the great-sound , herringtons inlet , south-hampton , and pagets ; which , with their forts of dover , and warwick , take their names from the several noble men that were concerned as undertakers . the fertility , commodities , fruits , &c. the earth is exceeding fertile , yeilding two crops yearly ; their maize they gather in july , and december . they have excellent fruits , as , oranges , dates , mulberries both white and red ; where breed abundance of silk-worms which spin silk . their chief commodities are , ooranges , couchaneil , and tobacco , with some pearl , and ambergreece , and with these they drive some small trade . they have plenty of tortoises , which is their ordinary food , whose flesh is very delicious . their hoggs , which the spaniards formerly carried thither , are greatly encreased . they have many fowles , and birds , amongst which , a great many cranes , with a sea-fowl that breeds in holes like rabbets . they have no fresh-water for their occasions , but that of wells , and pits , which ebbs and flowes with the sea , there being neither fountain nor stream in these isles . no venemous beast . in these isles are no venemous beast , their spiders are not poysonous , but are of sundry and various colours ; and in the hot weather , they make their webs so strong , that oft-times the small birds are entangled and catched in them . caedar trees . here are caedar trees , which differs from all others in several respects , but the wood is very sweet . the air and healthfulness . the skie is almost always serene , and when darkned with clouds , it commonly thunders , and lightneth : and the air is very temperate , and so exceeding healthful , that it is rare to hear that any one dyeth of any distemper , but only old age ; insomuch that many have removed from england hither , only for the enjoyment of a long , and healthful life ▪ and those that have made any long continuance here , are fearful o● removing out of so pure an air. the inhabitants . the english first setled themselves on these isles about the year 1612. and have now established a powerful colony , there being at present , about four or five thousand inhabitants , who have strongly fortified the approaches , which with the rocks in the sea , renders them impregnable . map of carolina a description of carolina . carolina , a new established colony , of the english , being that part of florida adjoyning to virginia , which makes its northern bounds in the latitude of 36 degrees ; and extendeth it self to the latitude of 29 , which makes its extream southern bounds ; on the east it is washed with the atlantick ocean , and on the west , it hath that large tract of land which runneth into the pacifique ocean . it s temperature , and healthfulness . it is a countrey blest with a temperate , and wholesome air , the heat in summer , nor the cold in winter , ( which is not so much as to check the growth of plants , trees , &c. the several fruits , and plants , having their distinct seasons , being no wayes offensive to the inhabitants . neither is the air thus temperate , and agreeable , to the natives only , but it is as favourable to the english : and being thus healthful , hath invited several persons from the bermudes to settle here ; who dwelling in so pure an air , durst not venture in any other countrey . nor do those from the bermudes only remove hither , upon the assurance of a happy life , joyned with the gaining of fair estates , but also , many english from most of the american plantations , it being generally esteemed one of the best colonies that ever the english were masters of ; for here is health , pleasure , and profit to be found , which cannot be met with in so large a measure , in any countrey of the indies . their fruits , hearbs , &c. the soyl is rich , and fertile , and produceth excellent fruits ; as apricocks , peaches , grapes , ( of which the english have made good wine ) olives , walnuts , apples , pears , plumbs , cherries , figgs , mulberries , strawberries , water-mellons , marachocks , quinces , and other fruits known to us in europe , which for goodness are no wayes inferiour to them ; and in the southern part , oranges , limes , pomgranates , and pome-citrons . and indeed , the earth is very apt to produce , and bring to maturity , corn , all sorts of garden-herbs , and roots , &c. its commodities . the commodities which this countrey doth , and may produce , are wines , oyls , silk , ( mulberry-trees growing in great abundance in the woods ) cotton , indico , ginger , tobacco , &c. and it is believed , that here may be made of the three first commodities , viz. wines , oyl , and silk , such great abundance , to theirs , and this kingdoms enrichment , that besides what we shall use our selves , we may have wherewith to furnish forrain parts . their trees . besides the mulberry-trees , here are those of caedar , oak , both white and red , poplar , bay , ash , and pine ; with several others whose names are yet unknown . their rivers , fish , and fowl. the countrey is very well watered with rivers , there being between cape-carteret , and port-rasal , which is not above 60 miles , 5 or 6 great navigable rivers , which discharge themselves into the sea , besides several others of less remark . and these rivers are plentifully stored with excellent fish of sundry sorts , which being the same as are found in virginia , which comes next to be treated of , i shall omit the nameing of them here . here are also great plenty of wild-fowl , as geese , cranes , swans , herons , curlews , heath-cocks , oxeys , brants , dotterels , widgeons , teals , and duck , and mallard in an undestroyable quantity . provisions in the woods . the woods are well stored with large turkeys , phesants , partridges , turtle-doves , wood-pidgeons , with great variety and plenty of small birds . also in the woods , are great plenty of deer , with abundance of hares , coneys , &c. here are divers delightful , and spacious savanas . the natives of carolina . the natives of carolina , according to the observation of mr. john ledener ( who made three several journeys from virginia , to carolina , about the year 1670. on purpose for a discovery of those parts , and the better understanding the nature and disposition of the inhabitants ) are said by him , to be a people of a ready witt , and though illiterate , of a good understanding . for the account of time , ( he saith , ) they make use of hieroglyphicks , and emblems of things ; likewise they instruct their children in such things as relates to their families and countrey , which is so preserved from generation , to generation ; where a battle hath been fought , or upon the settlement of a colony , they raise a small pyramid of stone , which doth consist of the number slain , or setled at such a colony . for religious rites , either devotion , sacrifice , or burial , they make a round circle of short strawes , or reeds , and according to the placing of the said strawes , or reeds , it is known for what it was made ; and to meddle with such circles , is esteemed no better than sacriledge . he saith , they worship one god ; as creator of all things , to whom their high-priest offers sacrifice , but believes he hath somthing else to do , than to reguard humane affairs , but doth commit the government thereof to lesser deities ; that is , to good and evil spirits , to whom their inferiour priests makes their devotion , and sacrifice . he saith , they beleive the transmigration of the soul , and when any one dyeth , they interr with the corps , provisions , and housholdstuff for the elizium or next world , which they fancy to be beyond the mountains , and indian ocean . he further saith , that from four women , they believe all mankind sprung , and do therefore divide themselves into as many tribes ; and in their marriages , they are very superstitious . he saith , they are generally well-proportionate ; they are great favourers of the english , living together in love and friendship , and upon all occasions , ready to contribute their assistance unto them . they are generally of a good , and honest meaning , no wayes addicted to vice , or to exextravagancies , contending themselves with a mean dyet and apparrel for their present subsistance , not taking much care for the time to come . he further saith , that they are much addicted to mirth , and dancing ; they are also much prone to honour , and valour , which they place above all other vertues , which doth occasion them to be so continually engaged against one another in wars : and that side which fortune crowneth with victory , triumphal jollaties are performed by them . the countrey ( he saith ) is divided into several petty kingdoms , and the people in the one , keep no good correspondence with those that border upon them , and on the least occasion , wage war one against another . in this countrey of carolina ( he saith ) that there are several indian towns which are generally the habitation of the king , that commands the territory . the proprietors of carolina . this province or countrey of carolina , was first possessed by the english , about the year 1660 , and became a proprietorship ; which his present majesty k. charles the second , granted by patent to the right noble , george duke of albemarle , earl of torrington , baron moncke of potheridge , peachampe and teys , knight of the noble order of the garter , captain general of his majesties land-forces , and one of the lords of his majesties most honourable privy council , &c. the right honourable , edward earl of clarendon , viscount cornbury , and baron hide of hendon , &c. the right honourable , william earl of craven , viscount craven of uffington , baron craven of hamsted-marshal , lord lieutenant of the county of middlesex , and borouh of southwark , and one of the lords of his majesties most honourable privy council , &c. the right honourable john lord berkley , baron berkley of stratton , lord lievtenant of ireland for his majesty , &c. the right honourable , anthony lord ashley , baron ashley of winbourn st. giles , chancellour of the exchequor , under-treasurer of england , one of the lords commissioners of the treasury , and one of the lords of his majesties most honourable privy council , &c. the honourable sr. george carteret of hawnes in bedfordshire baronet , vice-chamberlain of his majesties houshold , and one of his majesties most honourable privy council , &c. sr. william berkley of in the county of knight and baronet , and to sr. john colleton of london , knight and baronet ; and to their heirs and successors . and the said lords proprietors , having by their patent , power to establish a government , and make lawes for the better regulation thereof , and the inviting of inhabitants , have formed a model , ( which by the general consent of all the proprietors ) was drawn up by the right honourable the lord ashley , a person of great worth , and prudence ; whose knowledg in matters of state , and the settlement of a government , is sufficiently praise worthy by all perso●● ▪ which said model is so well fr●med for the good and welfare 〈◊〉 the inhabitants , that it is estee●ed by all judicious persons withou● compare ; but the said model , b●ing too long to be set down in th●● small treatise , i must be constra●ned to omit it . the settlements of the english . here are at present two considerable settlements of the english , for so short a time , the one at albemarle-river in the north , and the other about the midst of the countrey on ashley river , which is likely to be the scale of trade for the whole countrey , as being scituate very commodious for shipping , and in a healthful place . map of new england, virginia, maryland and newfoundland a description of virginia . its bounds . virginia particularly now so called , hath for its southern limits , carolina ; for its eastern , the atlantick ocean ; for its northern , mariland ; and for its western , that vast tract of land which runneth into the south-sea . it s name . this countrey was said to b● first discovered by sr. franc●● drake ( as indeed all this tract o● sea-coast ) and was so named by sir. walter rawleigh , ( a great promoter of this discovery , ) in honou● of queen elizabeth , who the● reigned . the settlement of the english . much time was spent in the discovery of this countrey , with vast expences in the setting forth of ships and not without the great loss o● many a poor wretches life , besore it could be brought to perfection ; but at length , through the industry of † captain john smith , and other worthy persons , who took great pains for the advancement of these discoveries , fortune began to smile ●n her , and about the reign of king james , a patent was grant●d to certain persons as a corpora●ion , and called the company of adventurers of virginia . afterwards other patents were granted to them for larger extents of land excluded in the former ; ●ut the said corporation committing of several , and frequent misdemeanours , and miscarriages , the said patent about the year 1623 was made nul ; since which it hath been free for all his majesties subjects , to trade into these parts . it s air and temperature . this countrey is blest with a sweet aud wholesome air , and the clime of late very agreeable to the english , since the clearing o● woods ; so that now few dyeth o● the countreys disease , called th● seasoning . the soyl. it is every where interlaced with delectable hills , and rich valleys and of a soyl so fertile , that an acre of ground commonly yieldeth 200 bushels of corn , and is very apt to produce what is put therein , as english grains , roots , seeds , plants , fruits , &c. besides those appropriated to the countrey , and other adjacent parts of america . their fruits . here are excellent fruits in great abundance , which may be compared with those of italy or spain , as apricocks , peaches , mellons , apples , pears , plumbs , cherries , grapes , figgs , pomgranates , quinces , maracocks , puchamines , chesnuts , walnuts , olives , straberries , rasberries , goosberries , and mulberries in great abundance . of their apples they make syder ; of their pears , perry ; and of their grapes , wine . their roots and herbs . they have several sorts of roots , as potatoes , carrets , turnips , artichoaks , onyons , cabbages , collyflowers , sparagus , &c. and most sort of garden-herbs , known to us in great plenty . their fowles , and birds . here is great plenty of fowle , as wild turkeys , which usually weigh 6 stone ; partridges , swans , geese , ducks , teal , widgeons , dotterels , heathcocks , oxeyes , brants , pidgeons , cranes , herons , eagles , and several sorts of hawkes . and for small birds ▪ innumerable quantities of sundry sorts , as blackbirds , thrushes , red-birds ; and above all , the mockbirds , which counterfeiteth the notes of all birds . their wilde beasts , and tame cattle . they have great store of wilde beasts , as lyons , bears , leopards , tygers , wolves , and dogs like wolves , but brake not ; buffeloes , elks , whose flesh is as good as beef ; rosconnes , utchunquois , deer , hares , bevers , ottors , foxes , martins , poulcats , wesells , musk-rats , flying squirils , &c. and for tame cattle , cowes , sheep , goats , hoggs , and horses in great plenty . their fish . here is great plenty of excellent fish as well in the sea , and bay of chesopeack , as in the rivers , viz. cods , thornback , sturgeon , grampuses , porpuses , drums , cat-fish , basses , sheepsheads ( which makes broath like that of mutton ) cony-fish , rock-fish , creey-fish , white salmons , mullets , soles , plaice , mackrel , trouts , perches , conger-eels , herrings , crabs , oysters , shrimps , cockles , muscles , &c. commodities . commodities which this countrey doth , or may produce , are hemp , flax , hops , rape-seed , anniceseed , wood , madder , pot-ashes ▪ honey , wax , silk , ( if they would make it , mulberry-trees here growing in such great plenty ) saxafras , sarsaparilla , several swee● gums , and balsomes of sovereign vertues , several sorts of plants ▪ woods , &c. used by dyers , here are veins of alomes , iron , and copper , sundry sorts of rich furrs , elk-skins ( which maketh excellen● buffe ) and other hides ; pitch , tarr , rozen , turpentine , butter , cheese , and salted flesh and fish , which find vent at the barbadoes , and other caribbe isles ; but above all these , their chief commodity is tobacco , which they are sure to find vent for , and is the standard by which all other commodities are prized ; but it were well for the inhabitants if they would imploy their time , about the making of silk , or some other commodities , which in a short time would be found more advantageous unto them , & then their tobacco would not be so great a drug as of late it is , insomuch that the merchant oft-times had rather lose it , then to pay the charges and duties of freight , custome , excise , &c. here groweth a kind of flax , called silk-grass , of which the indians make thred , and strings , and is good to make linnen-cloth , and shifts , and would make excellent strong cables . their trade . here all trades-men , especially handicrafts finds good encouragement ; and for those commodities aforesaid , the english ( who have the sole trade ) bring them all sorts of apparel , all manner of utinsills , belonging to household-stuf , or necessary in their plantations , or otherwise ; also wine , brandy , and other strong drinks ; likewise all silks , stuf and cloth , both linnen and wollen , which they convert to several uses according to their fancyes , being now supplyed by taylors . their trees . here groweth sundry sorts of trees , of the red and white oak black walnut , cedar , pine cyprus , chesnut , poppler , ash , elm , &c. many of which are very good for the building of ships , and other uses . the rivers . this country is well watered with several great , and strong rivers which lose themselves in the gulph or bay of chesopeak , which gives entrance for shipping in this country , as also to mary-land next adjoyning ; which said bay is very large , capacious , and comodious for shipping , being said to run up into the countrey northwards near 75 leagues ; its breadth in many places , being 5 , 6 , or 7 leagues , and sometimes more , and 6 or 7 fathom deep , and its opening to the south between cape-henry , which begineth virginia , and cape-charles on the other side opposite , being about 10 , or 12 leagues wide . the principal of these rivers begining at cape-henry , are pawhatan , now called james-river , being very large & commodious for ships , and found navigable about 50 leagues . pamaunke , now york-river , also large and navigable , about 20 leagues . rapahanock or toppahanock , likewise a good river and navigable , about 40. leagues , which is the last river of virginia northwardly , that falls into the bay of chesopeack . their townes . upon , or near , these rivers for the conveniency of shipping , the english are seated , which at present do amount unto the number of about 30 , or 40000 , and have some townes , the chief amongst which , is james-town , or rather james city , commodiously seated james-river ; the town is beautified with many fair and well built brick houses , and as it is the chief town of the countrey ; here is kept the courts of judicature and offices of publique concern ; not far from which , at green-spring , resideth the governour sir william berkley . next to james-town may be reckoned that of elizabeth , seated at the mouth of the said river , a well built town . also dales-gift , wicocomoco , bermuda , and others . the english government . this countrey is governed by laws agreeable with those of england , for the deciding of all causes both civil and criminal ; which said laws are thus made by the governour , appointed by his majesty , with the consent of the general assembly , which doth consist of his council , and the burgesses chosen by the free-holders . and for the better government , the countrey , which is possessed by the english , is divided into several counties , in each of which are sheriffs , justices of the peace , and other officers , which are from time to time appoynted by the governour ; the names of the counties are those of carotuck , charles , glocester , hartford , henrico , james , new-kent , lancastar , middlesex , nansemund , lower-norfolk , northampton , northumberland , rappahanock , surrey , warwick , westmorland , isle of wight , and york , and in each of these counties , are held petty courts , every month from which there may be appeales to the quarter-court held at james-town . the natives or indians . virginia was , and yet is the habitation of divers sorts of indians , which have no dependance upon each other , being of particular tribes , and having their peculiar king to govern them ; every indian-town , or rather poor village , being the habitation of a king ; and these people do rather live at enmity , than amity together . and as to their dispositions , manners , religions , &c. there is found a difference , but most of all in their languages ; so that those people may not improperly be called so many several nations . they are generally a sort of people well proportionate , stout , of a swarthy complexion , their hair black , and flaggy , which they wear long ; they are of a ready wit , very subtile , and treacherous , not much addicted to labour , being too great lovers of their ease ; they are much given to hunting , and going to wars with each other , their weapons being the bow and arrows , at which they are very expert , being good marks-men ; but of late they have got the use of guns , and other weapons , through the folly of the english in shewing them . they are very loving and obedient to their kings ; in matters of religion , they observe strange ceremonies , and their priests ( which are esteemed conjurers ) makes sacrifices for them . they believe the transmigration of the soul , and have strange fancies about the creation of they world , they believe there is a god , but think he hath something else to do then to concern himself with things below , as too inferiour for him , and do therefore not worship him ; but the divel they worship out of a fear , least he should destroy them , as having the power of them . their apparel is but mean , only contenting themselves with something to cover their nakedness ; and for the better defending themselves from the weather , they anoynt their bodyes with certain oyles mixt with beares grease . their houses are no better then our english hogsties , and are made of boughs , and covered with bark of trees ; and in the midst thereof , is placed their chimney , or fire-place . their dyet in meaness , is answerable to their houses , not endeavouring to please their pallets with curious sauces , or pompering their bodies with provokative meates . a description of maryland . it s scituation and bounds . the province of maryland lying between the degrees of 37 , and 50 minutes , or thereabouts , and 40 degrees of northern latitude . it hath for its bounds on the south , virginia , ( from which it is parted by the river patowmeck , whose southerly bank divides the province from virginia ; ) on the east , the atlantick ocean , and delaware-bay ; on the north , new-england , and new-york , formerly part of new-england , lying on the east side of delaware-bay ; and on the west , the true meridian of the first fountain of the river of patowmeck . the bay of chesopeack giving entrance to ships into virginia , and maryland , passeth through the heart of this province , and is found navigable near 200 miles ; into which falls the rivers of patowmeck , patuxent , ann-arundel , ( alas severn ) and sasquesahanough , lying on the west side of the bay ; and to the east of the said bay , those of choptanke , nantecoke , pocomoke , and several other rivers and rivulets , to the great improvement of the soyl , and beauty of this province . the countrey of late , since the felling of the woods , and the peoples accustoming themselves to english dyet , is very healthful and and agreeable to the constitution of the english , few now dying at their first coming , of the countreys disease , or seasoning . and as to the temperature of air , the heats in summer , receive such seasonable allayes from gentle breezes , and fresh showres of rain ; and the cold in winter , is of so little durance , that the inhabitants cannot be said to suffer by either . the soyl , &c. the countrey is generally plain and even , yet rising in some places into small and pleasant hills , which heighten the beauty of the adjacent valleys . the soyl is rich and fertil , naturally producing all such commodities as are in the precedent discourse set down as peculiar to its neighbouring colony , virginia ; as all sorts of beasts and fowle both tame and wild ; fish , fruits , plants , roots , herbs , gums , trees , balsomes , &c. as likewise all commodities produced by industry , are here found in as great plenty and perfection : but the general trade of maryland depends chiefly upon tobacco , which being esteemed better for a forreign market than that of virginia , finds great vent abroad , and the planters at home ; in exchange thereof , are furnished by the merchant with all necessaries , for himself , his house , family , and plantation . their is a competent stock of ready mony in this province both of english , forreign , and his lordshipps own coyne , yet their chief way of commerce is by way of barter , or exchange of commodities , which may be judged to be no wayes inconsiderable , since 100 sail of ships from england , and the english plantations , have of late yeares been known to trade thither in one year . the natives . the natives , as to their complexion , stature , customes , dispositions , laws , religions , apparel , dyet , houses , &c. are much the same as those of virginia , already treated of ; being likewise many different tribes , or sorts of people , and each govern'd by their particular king. the government , &c. of this countrey . this province of maryland , his majesty king charles the first in anno 1632 , granted by patent to the right honourable caecilius calvert , lord baltemore , and to his heires and assignes ; and by that patent created him , and them , the true and absolute lords and propriators of the same , ( saving the allegiance and soveraigne dominion due to his majesty , his heirs , and successours ; ) thereby likewise granting to them all royal jurisdictions , and prerogatives both millitary and civil ; as power of enacting laws , martial laws , making of war , and peace , pardoning of offences , conferring of honours , coyning of money , &c. and in acknowledgement thereof , yeilding and and paying yearly to his majesty , his heires and successors , two indian arrows at windsor castle in the county of berks , on easter tuesday ; together with the fifth part of all the gold and silver oare that shall be found there . for the better inviting of people to settle here , his lordship , by advice of the general assembly of that province , hath long since established a model of good and wholsome laws for the ease and benefit of the inhabitants , with tolleration of religion , to all sorts that profess the faith of christ : which hath been a principal motive to many to settle under that government , rather then in another where liberty of conscience was denyed them . it s division into countyes . this province where it is peopled with english , is severed into 10 counties ; to wit , 5 eastwards of chesopeak bay , as cecil , dorchester , kent , sommerset , and talbot ; and 5 westwards of the said bay , as ann-arundel , baltemore , calvert , charles and st. maries . and in every one of these countyes , there is held an inferiour court every two months for small matters , from which there lyeth appeales to the provincial court , held at st. maryes . here are likewise certain magistrates appoynted by his lordship in each county , as sheriffs , justices of the peace , &c. their townes . the inhabitants ( being in number at present about 16000 ) have begun the building of several townes , which in few yeares 't is hoped may come to some perfection ; as calverton , herrington , and harvy-town , all commodiously seated for the benefit of trade , and conveniency of shipping , but the principal town is st. maryes , seated on st. georges river , being beautified with divers well-built houses , and is the cheif place or scale of trade for the province , where the governour his lordships son and heir , mr. charles calvert hath his house , and where the general assembly , and provincial courts are held , and publique offices kept ; but at present the said governour doth reside at mattapany , about 8 miles distant where he hath a fair and pleasant house . and for the better assisting the said governour , in matters that concerns the government of the province , he hath his council , &c. a description of new-york . adjoyning to mary-land , northwards , is a colony called new-york , from his royal highness the duke of york , the proprietor thereof by grant from his majesty , and is that part of new-england which the dutch formerly seized , and called the new netherlands . it s fertility , &c. it is a countrey , of a rich and fertile soyl , well watered with rivers , as is mary-land already spoken of , and is found to produce the same beasts , birds , fish , fruits , commodities , trees , &c. and in as great plenty . it s town . here is one very considerable town , first built by the dutch , and called new-amsterdam , which name is now changed to new-york : it is well seated both for trade , security , and pleasure , in a small isle called mahatan , reguarding the sea , made so by hudsons-river , which severeth it from long-island , which said river is very commodious for shipping , and is about two leagues broad . the town is large , containing about five hundred well-built houses ; and for civil government , it hath a mayor , alderman , a sheriff , and justices of the peace for their magistrates . for the further security of this town , here is raised a fort called james-fort , which is very strong , and well defended and maintained with men , and ammunition . the town is inhabited by the english , and dutch , and hath a considerable trade with the indians , for the skins of elks , deer , bears , &c. also for those of bever , otter , and other furrs ; and doth likewise enjoy a good trade with the english . the natives . this countrey is also possessed with sundry sorts of people , not much unlike the indians of virginia , being well proportioned , stout , swarthy , black haired , very expert in their bow , and arrows , which are their chief weapons of war. they are courteous to the english , of a ready witt , and very apt to receive instructions from them ; upon the least offence , the man turneth away his wife , and marrieth again , and the children begotten by her , she taketh with her , the man not regarding them . fornication is here permitted . they observe several ceremonies in their religious rites , and are said to worship the devil , whom they greatly fear . their priests are no better than sorcerers , who strangly bewitch these silly creatures . when any woman findeth her self quick with child , she keepeth her self chast , or untouched by man until her delivery , the like she observeth in the time of her giving suck . a strange custom which our european dames would not well like of ! they are very obedient and loving to their kings : they believe the transmigration of the soul ; and concerning the creation of the world , have a strange fantastical opinions . they are much addicted to dancing , sports , and recreations , observing festival times . their habit is but mean , as the rest of the indians , yet do they paint and besmear their faces with several colours by way of ornament . there dyet and habitations are also as mean. they are much addicted to go to wars against one another , and do seldome give quarter to any but the women and children , whom they preserve , and make use of for the encreasing their strength . a description of new-england . it s situation . new england is seated north of maryland , which according to the report of capt. smith , hath 70 miles of sea coast , where are found divers good havens , some of which are capable to harbour 500 saile of shipps from the fury the of sea , and winds , by reason of the interposition of several isles ( to the number of about 200 ) which lie about this coast . and although this countrey is seated in the midst of the temperate zone , yet is the clime more uncertain , as to heat and cold , then those european kingdomes , which lie parallel with it ; and as to virginia , this may be compared as scotland is to england . the aire . the aire is here found very healthful , and very agreeable to the english , which makes them possess many potent colonyes . its inhabitants . this countrey is possessed by divers sorts of people , who are governed by their particular kings , and do much differ in customes , and manners , from one another , as those indians inhabiting in mary-land , virginia , and other parts of america . and do live generally at variance with each other . they have their several townes and settlements , and their riches doth consist in their furs , and skins , which they sell to the english . when first inhabited by the english . this countrey became first to be a colony of the english about the year 1605 , being granted by patent from king james , to certain proprietors under the name of the plymouth company ; but divers years were spun out , with great expences , and not without sundry casualties befalling on the adventurers , before it became any thing considerable , and in a setled condition . their rivers , and fish . this country is well watered with rivers , the chief amongst which , are agamentico , conectecut , kinebequy , merrimeck , mishuin , mistick , neraganset , pascataway , pemnaquid , tachobacco , &c. and in these rivers , together with the sea , are taken excellent fish , as cod , thornback , sturgeon , porpuses , haddock , salmons , herrings , mackeril , oysters , lobsters , crab-fish , tortoise , cocles , muscles , clams , smelts , eels , lamprons , alewives , basses , hollibuts , sharks , seales , grampus , and whales . their fowles , and birds . here are great variety of fowls , as phesants , partridges , heath-cocks , turkeys , geess , ducks , hernes , cranes , cormorants , swans , widgins , sheldrakes , snipes , doppers , blackbirds , the humbird , loon , &c. their beasts , both tame and wild. their wild beasts of chief note , are lyons , beares , foxes , rackoons , mooses , musquashs , otters , bevers , deer , hares , coneys , &c. and for tame beasts , cowes , sheep , goates , swine , and horses . amongst the hurtful things in this countrey , the rattle-snake is most dangerous . here are also several sorts of stinging flyes ; which are found very troublesome to the inhabitants . their trees , and fruits . here are sundry sorts of trees , as the oak , cyprus , pine , chesnut , caedar , walnut , firr , ash , asp , elm , alder , maple , birch , sasafras , sumach , several fruit-trees , as apples , pears , plumbs , with several others that are growing in virginia , and mary-land , which i have already took notice of . their commodities , and trade . this countrey affordeth several sorts of rich furrs , flax , linnen , amber , iron , pitch , tarr , cables , masts , and timber to build ships , also several sorts of grain , &c. the inhabitants drive a considerable trade to barbadoes , and other our american plantations , in supplying them with flower , bisket , salt , flesh , and fish , &c. and in return bring sugars , and other commodities , as well for their own use , as to sell again . they also drive a considerable trade with england for wearing apparrel , stuffs , silks , cloth , several utensils for their houses , iron , brass , and such like things that are useful to man and not found amongst them . as to the coyns , weights , and measures of new-england , and the rest of the american plantations belonging to his majesty , they are the same with those of london , but as to coyns , they are not much made use of in trade , their way being bartering of one commodity for another ; but at jamaica they have plenty of spanish coins , and at barbadoes those of england . the english now inhabiting in new-england , are very numerous , and powerful , having a great many towns , many of which are considerable . the english government . the inhabitants are governed by laws of their own making , and have their several courts , and places of judicature , and assemble together , at their set times , and places , as well for the making of new lawes , abolishing of old , hearing , and determining of causes ; as for the election of a governour , deputy-governour , assistants , burgesses , and other magistrates , ( every town having two burgesses ) each county annually electing such like officers , for the looking after the like affairs in the said colony . and in matters that concern religion , and church-government , they are very strict and make a great shew , being much of the stamp of the ridgid presbyterians . the towns. here are several towns , as boston , the metropolis of new-england , commodiously seated for traffique on the sea-shore ; it is at present a very large and spacious town , or rather city , composed of several well-ordered streets , and graced with fair and beautiful houses , which are well inhabited by merchants , and trades-men , who drive a considerable trade for such commodities as the countrey afforeth to barbadoes , and the other caribbee isles , as also to england , and ireland ; taking in exchange such commodities as each place affordeth , or are found useful to them . it is a place of a good strength , having two or three hills adjoyning , on which are raised fortifications , with great peices mounted thereon , which are well guarded . charles-town , seated on and between the rivers charles and mistick ; it is beautified with a large and well-built church , and near the river side is the market-place , from which runneth two streets , in which are divers good houses . dorchester scituate near the sea , where there falleth in two rivulets . an indifferent town . cambridg , formerly new-town seated on the river merrimeck : this town consisteth of several streets , and is beautified with two colledges , and divers fair , and well built houses . st. georges-fort , seated on the mouth of the river sagadebock . new-plimouth , seated on that large bay of potuxed . reading , commodiously seated about a great pond , and well-watered , and inhabited . in this town are two mills , one for corn , and the other for timber . salem , pleasantly seated betwixt two rivers . other towns placed alphabetically . berwick , braintree , bristol , concord , dartmouth , dedham , dover , exeter , falmouth , glocester , greens-harbour , hampton , hartford , haverhil , hingham , hull , ipswich , lin , maulden , new-bury , new-havon , northam , norwich , oxford , rowley , roxbury , salisbury , sandwich , southampton , spring-field , sudbury , taunton , water-town , wenham , weymouth , woburne , and yarmouth . most of these towns beareth the names from those in england , and many of them are of good account , being commodiously seated , either on the sea-shore , or on navigable rivers , and are well inhabited . and most of those towns are known to the indians by other names . a description of new-fovnd-land . newfoundland is an island in extent equal to england , from whence it is distant little above 600 leagues , lying near half way between ireland , and virginia . it is scituated betwixt the degrees of 46 , and 53 of northern latitudes , and it is only severed from the continent of america , by an arm of the sea , like that which separates england from france . its bays , rivers , fish , fowl , beasts , &c. it is famous for many spacious and excellent bayes , and harbours , and within the land for the variety of fresh springs , whose waters are exceeding delicious . it is enriched by nature , with plenty of fish , land , and water-fowl , and sufficiently stockt with deer , hares , otters , foxes , squirils , and other beasts which yield good furrs : and though not over-run generally with woods , it doth afford ( besides store of fewel ) abundance of stately trees , fit for timber , masts , planks , and sundry other uses . the soile and climate . the soile in most places is reputed fertile ; the climate wholsome , though the rigour of the winter season , and the excess of heats in summer , doth detract something from its due praise . how inhabited . the north and west part of this countrey the native-indians inhabit , though but few in number , and those a more rude and savage sort of people then those of new-england and other places in the adjacent contenent , already taken notice of . new-found-land first discovered by the english . the island , of new-found land was first discovered by the english , who are the true propriators thereof , excluding all forreigne right , and justifying the same to belong to the crown of england only , whose interest hath been there continued by several , under the reigns of divers kings & queens . in the year 1623 , sir george calvert knight , then principal secretary of state and afterwards ld. baltemore , obtained a patent of part of new-found-land ; which was erected into a province , and called avalon ; where he caused a plantation to be setled , and a stately house and fort to be built at ferryland , and afterwards transported himself and family thither , and continuing the plantation by his deputy , till by descent ( after his lordships decease ) it came to his son and heir the right honorable caecilius , now lord baltemore , who by deputies from time to time , was no less careful to preserve his interest there , which ( though during the late troubles in england , it was by sir david kirkes means , for some years discontinued , he was soon reinvested in the same by his majesties most happy restauration . there is no part of new-found-land generally more happy for multiplicity of excellent bayes , and harbours , then this province , and where vast quantities of fish are yearly caught by the english , especially at ferryland , and the bay of bulls . but the whole coast of the island , affords infinite plenty of codd , and poor-john , which is the chief commodity of the isle , which is grown to a setled trade , for these many years , to the enrichment of all those that trade thither . a great bank of land. east of newfoundland , over against cape-ray , at the distance of about 70 miles , lyeth a great bank of land , of about 300 miles in length , and not above seventy-five in breadth , where broadest . it lyes under the sea many fathoms deep , so the ships of a considerable burthen may ride over it : and about this banck lyes dispersed several small isles , called by st. sebastion cabot ( the first discoverer ) los baccaloos , or the isles of cod-fish , from the prodigious quantities of cod-fish there found , which were said to obstruct ●he passage of his vessels . the trade to this island . the french , dutch , biscaners , and other nations that yearely trade hither amounting to between 3 or 400 vessels , are assured to find sufficient freight of cod and poor john , which they find good vent for in the streights , spaine , france and other countreys to their great profit and encouragement . and were the english diligent to inspect the advantage that might accrue to this nation , by settling plantations on the island , and raising fortifications , for the security of the place ; we might give law to all forreigners that come to fish there , and in few years engross the whole fishery to our selves : the greatest ballance perchance of forraigne trade . finis . notes, typically marginal, from the original text notes for div a28392-e830 it s scituation . it s form extent . it s soyl , and fertility . savanas , formerly fields of indian maiz. the air & temperature huricanes not in this isle . the winter known only by rain and thunder dayes , & nights almost equal . sugars . cocao . indico cotton . tobacco . hydes tortoise shells . curious woods . copper . silver . ambergreece . salt. saltpeter . ginger . cod-peper . piemente . druggs . gumms . cochaneil . of servants . horses . cowes . asnegroes . mules . sheep : goats . hoggs . excellent fish in great plenty . tortoise . great variety of tame & wild fowl. excellent fruits . herbs & roots . jamaica very healthful . diseases strangers are most subject unto . manchonele . snakes , guianas . alligators . muskettoes . merry-wings . port-royal . port-morant . old harbour . point-negrill . port-antonio . other good bayes & harbors . st. jago . sevilla . mellila . orista . 14 precincts or parishes in the isle . sre the mapp . the names of the precincts or parishes in the isle . their lawes . the spaniards first settlement . the spaniards inclined to idleness . 1. consideration . 2. consid . 3. consid . 4. consid . 5. consid . 6. consid . 7. consid . 8. consid . 9. consid . 1. consid . 2. consid . 4. consid . commodities imported , and its trade 4 consid 5. consid . 6. consid . 7. consid . 8. consid . 9. consid . 10. consideration . notes for div a28392-e13620 it s scituation . rivers . it s fertility . commodities . dayes & nights almost equal . temperature of air. the air moist . their fruits . their fish . their beasts . herbs , & roots . birds and fowles . animals , and insects . trees . several caves . it s division , and townes . st. michaels . litle bristol . charles-town . other places on the sea-coast . the inhabitants negro-slaves . their food . their drink . their apparel . their lodging . the management of a plantation . the island very strong the government of the island . the isle divided into four circuits . the present governour . see mr. ligons book of barbadoes page 87. notes for div a28392-e19740 it s scituation , &c. it s soyl , and commodities the isle very delightful , and of a pleasing prospect . the isle possessed by the english , & french their churches . a town possessed by the french notes for div a28392-e21060 it s scituation . extent . a spring of mineral water , and baths . their churches , &c. notes for div a28392-e21550 it s scituation . extent . the number of inhabitants . fish . fowl , & cattle . commodities . notes for div a28392-e21970 it s scituation . extent , and fertility . notes for div a28392-e22160 it s scituation , extent . notes for div a28392-e22380 it s extent , scituation . fertility , &c. notes for div a28392-e22580 it s scituation , extent , &c. notes for div a28392-e22710 it s scituation , fertility , &c. notes for div a28392-e22840 their scituation , and name . st. georges isle . several good ports : it s fertility . their fruits . their commodities . hoggs . fowles . defective in fresh-water . their spiders . these isles exceeding healthful the inhabitants and strength of the isle . notes for div a28392-e24140 its bounds , and scituation . this country very healthful . their fruits ▪ commodities . trees . rivers . their fowles . the disposition , &c. of the natives . it s division into kingdomes . the proprieters of carolina . notes for div a28392-e26900 its bounds . it s name and why so called . † capt. smith , a great promoter of the english setling at virginia . virginia nowvery healthful . the soyl very rich. excellent fruits . plenty of roots , & herbs . abundance of fowle . virginia well stored with beasts , & tame cattle . variety of fish , the product of the country their trade . several good woods . it s chief rivers . james town . elizabeth town . dales gift . virginia under a good goverment . the counties . their apparel their houses . their dyet . notes for div a28392-e30290 chesopeak bay. its rivers . the country very healthful for the beasts , fowl , fish , fruits , &c. see in the description of virginia . their coyns , & way of trade . maryland well governed . the names of the countries s. maries town . notes for div a28392-e32170 this country very fertile . new york the disposition of the natives . their habit & dyet , &c. notes for div a28392-e33200 it s scituation . the ayr. the disposition of the natives much like those of virginia . excellent fish . hurtfull things . fruits . commodities & trade . the government of the inhabitants of new-england . boston . charles town . dorchester . cambridg st. georges fort. reading . salem . notes for div a28392-e35690 it s scituation . its bayes and rivers . it s fish , fowles , beasts , trees . its inhabitants . the english the true proprieto●s of newf●und-land the ld. baltemore the proprietor of avalon in new-found-land . a great bank of land. a great trade here driven . friendly advice to the gentlemen-planters of the east and west indies in three parts. i. a brief treatise of the most principal fruits and herbs that grow in the east & west indies; giving an account of their respective vertues both for food and physick, and what planet and sign they are under. together with some directions for the preservation of health and life in those hot climates. ii. the complaints of the negro-slaves against the hard usages and barbarous cruelties inflicted upon them. iii. a discourse in way of dialogue, between an ethiopean or negro-slave, and a christian that was his master in america. by philotheos physiologus. tryon, thomas, 1634-1703. 1684 approx. 219 kb of xml-encoded text transcribed from 113 1-bit group-iv tiff page images. text creation partnership, ann arbor, mi ; oxford (uk) : 2003-07 (eebo-tcp phase 1). a63791 wing t3179 estc r203819 99825289 99825289 29668 this keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the early english books online text creation partnership. this phase i text is available for reuse, according to the terms of creative commons 0 1.0 universal . the text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. early english books online. (eebo-tcp ; phase 1, no. a63791) transcribed from: (early english books online ; image set 29668) images scanned from microfilm: (early english books, 1641-1700 ; 2158:23) friendly advice to the gentlemen-planters of the east and west indies in three parts. i. a brief treatise of the most principal fruits and herbs that grow in the east & west indies; giving an account of their respective vertues both for food and physick, and what planet and sign they are under. together with some directions for the preservation of health and life in those hot climates. ii. the complaints of the negro-slaves against the hard usages and barbarous cruelties inflicted upon them. iii. a discourse in way of dialogue, between an ethiopean or negro-slave, and a christian that was his master in america. by philotheos physiologus. tryon, thomas, 1634-1703. [2], 222, [2] p. printed by andrew sowle, [london] : in the year 1684. philotheus physiologus = thomas tryon. place of publication from wing. a reissue, with cancel title page, of the edition with title beginning "friendly advcie [sic]". the last leaf is blank. imperfect; -f1 (pp. 64-65); some print show-through. reproduction of the original in the henry e. huntington library and art gallery. created by converting tcp files to tei p5 using tcp2tei.xsl, tei @ oxford. re-processed by university of nebraska-lincoln and northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. eebo-tcp is a partnership between the universities of michigan and oxford and the publisher proquest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by proquest via their early english books online (eebo) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). the general aim of eebo-tcp is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic english-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in eebo. eebo-tcp aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the text encoding initiative (http://www.tei-c.org). the eebo-tcp project was divided into two phases. the 25,363 texts created during phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 january 2015. anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source. users should be aware of the process of creating the tcp texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data. text selection was based on the new cambridge bibliography of english literature (ncbel). if an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in ncbel, then their works are eligible for inclusion. selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. in general, first editions of a works in english were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably latin and welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so. image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in oxford and michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet qa standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. after proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of tcp data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a tcp editor. the texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the tei in libraries guidelines. copies of the texts have been issued variously as sgml (tcp schema; ascii text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable xml (tcp schema; characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless xml (tei p5, characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or tei g elements). keying and markup guidelines are available at the text creation partnership web site . eng slavery -jamaica -condition of slaves -early works to 1800. slavery -barbados -conditions of slaves -early works to 1800. jamaica -description and travel -early works to 1800. barbados -description and travel -early works to 1800. 2003-02 tcp assigned for keying and markup 2003-03 spi global keyed and coded from proquest page images 2003-05 judith siefring sampled and proofread 2003-05 judith siefring text and markup reviewed and edited 2003-06 pfs batch review (qc) and xml conversion friendly advice to the gentlemen-planters of the east and west indies . in three parts . i. a brief treatise of the most principal fruits and herbs that grow in the east & west indies ; giving an account of their respective vertues both for food and physick , and what planet and sign they are under . together with some directions for the preservation of health and life in those hot climates . ii. the complaints of the negro-slaves against the hard usages and barbarous cruelties inflicted upon them . iii. a discourse in way of dialogue , between an ethiopean or negro-slave , and a christian that was his master in america . by philotheos physiologus . printed by andrew sowle , in the year 1684. a brief treatise of the principal fruits and herbs that grow in barbadoes , jamaica , and other plantations in the west-indies . the first part. this short discourse of the qualities of the fruits which that gallant island of barbadoes yields , i thought would not be improper , as well for that i do not know that any has hitherto distinctly spoken thereof , as also because they being for the most part the same with those produced , not only in the western plantations , but also in guinea , the east-indies , and most hot countries , one and the same pains will serve to describe the properties of them all ; or at least to give such a general philosophical account , that whatever you meet with in th●se reigons neighbouring to the sun 's more near and direct beams , you may be well able by this specimen , and from the form , taste , colour , smell and signature of each vegetable , to understand its nature , use and operation . in the first place , we must in general observe , that all fruits in hot climates are better , as being as by nature prepared to an higher degree of maturity , than in cold ; for the sun making his nearer visits with auspicious beams , and an innocent and complemental warmth both better disposes the earth's teeming womb , and by a most excellent chymistry , refines the ripening fruits from their gross dull phlegmatick juices ; winter , snows , frosts and other excesses , are there only remembred and talkt of , not known ; and that sol's too ardent kisses may not be offensive , nature provides always delicate cooling briezes and refreshing gales of wind , which not only relieve the inhabitants from the ill effects of an excessive heat , but much conduce to the melioration of the fruits . which being thus brought to its full and absolute perfection , before gathered , may much safer be eaten in those warm countries , than in cold , where they have not sun enough to digest their rawness into a temperature so fit for food . and as it is not fit for man or beast to labour so much and so hard in hot regions , as in cold ; therefore the wise creator has by his hand-maid nature given them food prepared to their hands , that they might have no such need of toiling , there being there no winter to consume what summer brings forth , but a continued spring or perpetual harvest of most excellent and never-failing vegetations , some of the chief of which we shall proceed to speak of in particu●ar . of pine apples . this incomparable fruit deservedly claims precedency for its delicacy and excellency ; for when full ripe , its taste is so exquisitly delightful and pleasant , that it seems to exceed all others that the earth produces ; whence 't is reported , that when some of them , by great care , and the favour of a speedy voyage , were brought into england , ( for very rarely can they be preserv'd so long ) and presented to king iames , he was so ravisht with its charming deliciousness , that he said , it was not fit to be tasted by a subject , but only proper to regale the gusto of princes , inured to the highest delicacies . the four grand qualities , whence all perfect tastes do proceed , viz. the astringent or saltish , the bitter , the sweet and the sour are herein so equally mixt and compounded by gods hand-maid ( nature ) that 't is hard to distinguish which of them does predominate ; but the truth is , the most delightful moderator and king of all tastes , viz. the sweet doth a little exceed all the other three , so that there is nothing appears but an inviting beauty , delightful redolency , and ravishing taste , that feasts in the highest degree , all those senses at once . for it must be noted , that all the various and numberless tastes of things , both in the annimal , vegetable , and mineral kingdoms do all proceed and arise from the four grand qualities aforesaid , ( at large described in my way to health , and the good house-wife made a doctor , &c. ) so that there are but four perfect tastes , they being the radix of all others , as the seven notes are the basis or foundation of all musical harmony ; and according to the equality of those four , or the weakness or predominancy of each , such a taste does carry the upper dominion in all things , and accordingly is the same more or less grateful to the pallate and stomach , and homogeneal to the body . but though our pines are one of the best sorts of fruits in the world , they stand the inhabitants of those parts , and the eaters of them , but in very little stead , being by our english chiefly eaten after or betwixt meals , to pleasure wanton appetite and depraved senses ; for which cause their genuine nature and operation is hardly known to those that devour the most of them ; however , their excellent taste , pleasant smell , and curious shapes do declare their noble vertues , being either eaten alone , or with bread on a well prepared stomach ; for they moderate , cool , comfort and refresh the spirits , cleanse the passages , remove obstructions that fur the pipes , and also purge away and help to digest all slimy and sharp juices that offend nature , being light of concoction , and if eaten full ripe , on an empty stomach , it powerfully purgeth by urine . it makes a good breakfast or supper with the help of bread , it being clean and easie , that the natural heat can easily overcome and digest it at pleasure , and bread does dry up the humidity of the fruit , and renders the nourishment more firm . but note likewise , that this rare fruit is only good raw ( as we usually , but improperly call it ) that without any other preparation , than what nature , and the sun 's digestive heat gives it ; and entire and alone ( except only a little bread eat with it ) it is so compleat , that it will not admit of any alteration or composition , since they cannot add to its vertues , or raise nature to an higher degree , as in many other things may be done ; but here , what-ever humane art is used , or things intermixt , it is still for the worse , because nature ( the art of god ) has already cook't it to the sublimest perfection , it being the best and most fragrant fruit the west-indies do bring forth , most wholsom and healthy to be eaten now and then , viz. two or three times a week to make a meal or part of a meal with it ; for the god of eternal wisdom hath appointed all things to be used with sobriety , temperance and order , for which end he hath given all these brave comforts unto the sons of men : this is a fruit highly dignified with coelestial energy , being under the sun and venus , in the sign leo. of plantains . this is a brave noble fruit , pleasant and grateful to the senses , if not gathered till full ripen'd on the trees , they afford a nourishment of a middle nature , but not so quick nor brisk on the pallate and stomach , nor so easie of concoction as pines , because in these the lunar property does predominate , and the four qualities or tastes are not so equaliz'd ; yet it must be acknowledged a good and wholsom fruit , especially for such as live easily , and work but little ; for hard labourers ought to have food that affords a nourishment more firm and substantial ; and therefore such should eat bread , or some other dry food with them . it is a general custom to gather them before they are ripe , and let them ripen off the trees , which is both contrary to reason and nature ; for thereby the purer brisk spirituous parts are as it were totally destroyed ; so that the true lively vertues and sweetness become of a dull heavy nauseous and unpleasant taste , and harder of concoction , affording a much worse nourishment . nor is this fruit good being any way prepar'd as by art , tho' it be customary for many to make tarts with them , and compound them with several ingredients , which is not commendable ; for nature has already advanced them to the highest degree , provided you let them alone long enough , viz. till they are full ripe ; and all alteration then is for the worse , and not for the better . but the women must be doing something , though it be mischief , as mother eve has given them an example . but if when 't is full ripe it be eaten temperately , either alone , or rather with some bread , it is wholesom and profitable to nature ; but be advised not to eat them in wantonness on full stomachs , or between meals , as the custom of the english is , but not without great prejudice to nature ; for they are naturally a little ▪ dull and heavy , and therefore they require a brisk appetite and well prepared stomach , and store of heat to concoct them . this fruit is under the dominion of the moon , and the sign pisces ; as to heat they are moderate , viz. rather cooling than hot ; when full ripe they gently open obstructions of the breast , being eaten with bread in a morning ; but unripe they are binding , and if baked with sugar , spices , and the like , lose their natural operation , and thereby become hot , and apt to obstruct the passages , and tire the appetite and stomach , generate evil juices , dull spirits and thick blood , and therefore so prepared are no commendable food . of bonnanoes . it is a fruit much of the nature with plantains , but somewhat sweeter , or more venereal , and easier of concoction , very pleasant and delightful to the pallate , stomach , and senses , nature having likewise prepared this to the height , so that whatever alteration mrs. housewife makes , proves improper and hurtful ; the best way of eating them is like the rest before , either alone or with bread ; and so they cleanse , open and remove obstructions , gently loosen the belly , being of a middle quality , neither hot nor cold in excess ; a meal of them now and then will be not only grateful , but also healthful ; but if they are eaten green , or ripned off the trees , then their nature and operations will be altogether contrary , and have many ill effects ; for before fruits arrive to their full maturity , the astringent , bitter and sowr qualities do too violently predominate , and all such things must therefore prove hurtful to the body ; whereas when full ripe , the sweet balsamiak and pure spirituous qualities do tincture the saturnine and martial properties , and as it were captivate their poysonous fierce hot natures , that they can scarce be felt or tasted , the powers and vertues of sol and venus being become more strong . besides , ripening of fruits off from the trees is unnatural , and opposeth her method in the highest degree , as is before declared . of cocoe-nuts . the kernels of this fruit are of a full strong sweet and delightful taste to the pallate and stomach , but apt to stop and fur the passages , if eaten alone , or in quantities . & ut on the contrary , if order and temperance be observed , it makes a brave sublime food , very profitable for all ages and constitutions , affording a clean pure nourishment , easie of digestion , breeds good blood , and pure fine brisk spirits . besides , this fruit contains a thin or milky substance , of a cordial nature , if eaten with some dry food , as bread , and the like . but neither this nor the kernal is not to be eaten alone on full stomachs , or between meals , as english people are apt to do in all places where they come , accounting nothing food but flesh and fish ; whereas herbs , seeds , fruits and grains do far transcend them , as to brave firm substantial nourishment , as i have else-where in several treatises demonstrated , viz. in my way to health , long life and happiness , — the good housewife made a doctor , &c. these cocoe-fruits are under the sun and venus , and the coelestial sign libra , but its outward shell or covering is martial and saturnine . of g●ovars . this fruit is under the dominion of the moon and mars , and the sign scorpio ; it hath its harsh taste from mars , its sweetness from the moon . if eaten unripe or green , then it binds the belly , but when full ripe , it is a good wholsom pleasant fruit , may be eaten raw at meals with bread and other food , as milk , or the like : they are of a moderate cooling opening quality ; but there are two sorts , one that are white within , and the other red , which last are the best of the two . of sour-sopps . this is a good fruit , agreeable to the stomach if full ripe , and it lie not too long after it be gathered before it be eaten ; it is endued with a grateful pleasant taste , very easie of concoction , if eaten moderately , especially with bread , or some other dry food ; if a meal be so made now and then , it will prove very profitable to the breast , by cleansing and removing obstructions that lie in those passages ; it also moderately cools and allays drought , and gently loosens the belly , and if a glass of white-wine , allay'd with water , be drank after it , or other proper liquor , it will bravely cleanse the passages of the uriters , and cause plentiful evacuation of urine ; but if they lie too long after gathering , before you use them , much of the good qualities and natural vertues will be abated , and it will be apt to have a contrary operation ; it is cold in quality , and therefore proves most profitable to the chollerick and sanguine complexions , but not so good for phlegmatick bodies . mercury and the moon have dominion over it , and it is to be attributed to the sign taurus . of prickle-pears . this is a pleasant delightful fruit , very grateful to nature , and may with safety be eaten both in health and sickness , being easie of concoction , it quickly passeth away , digesting and moving the obstructions that offend the passages , if eaten on an empty stomach , either alone or with bread , or some other food , it is moderately cooling , and good against the stone and gravel , if eaten alone in a morning when fasting , and a glass of white-wine , allay'd with water ( viz. one third part wine and two water ) drank after it . mercury governs it , and the sign aries . but neither this nor any other fruit ought to be eaten in wantonness , nor for state or vain pleasure , as between meals and after dinner , our creator never intending them for such uses , but for the support and health of mankind , and those that abuse them otherwise , commit a very great evil , of which they ought to repent , and forsake all such superfluities . of papaes . this is an innocent , yet noble fruit , of little taste taken as it grows , and that which it hath not very delightful ; but it hath a wonderful , and as it were , paradisical and most ravishing . vertue that internally lies hid , which being awakned and raised up by the skill of the good housewife , and proper ingredients , it makes various sorts of most delightful food , but more especially pyes or tarts , there being no other fruit in the west-indies ( nor perhaps else-where in the world ) comparable for that purpose ; for it hath no manifest taste or quality that does too manifestly predominate , ( as most other fruits have , that are used for such foods ) and thereby it is capable of being raised to what degree of taste or pleasantness the cook or good housewife pleases , by mixing and adding proper ingredients , which cannot be done with any fruits or things wherein any of the four qualities do too violently over-rule ; for such things as are unequal in their properties or qualifyings , or where unripe things are joyned with ripe , can very rarely be altered for the better . this fruit being so unparrallel'd a thing for the use aforesaid , the good dames of the western plantations have no reason to desire or long after other improper fruits or mixtures ; for this being aptly prepared and made into tarts , may yield the nicest pallates most ample satisfaction : it is under the dominion of the moon and venus , in the sign taurus , but the moon predominating in its governance , hides the pleasant qualities of venus ; but when other ingredients are mixt with it , then the sleeping or captivated vertues of venus appear in their splendor or ravishing tastes : they are of a cooling opening nature and operation of themselves , but when mixed , are varied according to the nature of the ingredients . i know no other fruit in the west-indies that can be altered to so good advantage as this . and as the pine-apple is the king of all fruits to be eaten raw ; so on the other side this is the best and properest to be used in variation or further prepared . of water melons . this is a most delicious fruit , very pleasant and delightful both to sickly and healthy people ; if eaten moderately 't is very profitable for hot chollerick complexions , and such as are subject to be feaverish , or fumes flying into their heads ; 't is of a cooling cleansing property , easie of concoction , and dis-burthens the passages of all gross offensive matter , if eaten ●asting in a morning with a little bread ; also , it powerfully cleanseth the reins and melancholly , purges by urine , and therefore the frequent use of them moderates the astringent harsh quality in such constitutions as are liable to the stone and gravel , for which it is one of the best remedies in the world. but if you mix sugar , wine , or the like ingredients , then you cannot perceive nor feel its genuine vertue or operation ; for thereby its nature and effects are changed , just as a painter does alter one colour into another , by adding other colours , which ought seriously to be considered by all compounders of food or medicines , and the natural reason to be well understood . this fruit is under the moon and venus ( but luna hath the greatest share in government ) in the sign libra , whence it is that they gallantly purge by urine . there are two sorts , red and white , but the red are the best . of musk-melons . there are two sorts of these , one about as big as our ordinary pumkins , the other smaller , not much bigger than those in england ; of the two , this last sort are the best , though the other are very good in their kind , and to be preferred before any our northren climate produces . the best way of eating them is with salt and bread , which renders them more warming and grateful to the stomach ; nor do they gripe , except it be for want of the bodies being used to them . they gently loosen the belly , and moderately purge by urine , if eaten for a breakfast with a glass or two of white-wine , or white-wine and water mixt ▪ or plain water drank after them : they may be eaten by all ages and constitutions , but are best for young people , and especially for chollerick hot complexions ; for they allay drought , and gently cool the whole body , but they may not be often eaten as food , because they afford not so firm a nourishment , but between whiles it will be very profitable to make a whole meal of them now & then with only bread and salt. of pumkins . pumkins that grow in the west-indies , are much of the nature of those we have here with us in england , but not altogether so cold , being brought to an higher degree of maturity by the powerful influences of the sun-beams , who caress them with nearer embraces ; yet still , this fruit is of a cold phlegmatick nature , but eaten stew'd with warming ingredients , makes an indifferent good food , taking store of bread therewith , its nourishment is not firm , but easie of concoction , loosens the belly , is not proper for cold phlegmatick complexions , but very profitable to be used now and then by the chollerick : it also gently purgeth by urine , as indeed most of the fruits in the west-indies do ; and 't is a great error in our northren people , settled in those parts , especially such as are obnoxious to the stone , gravel , and the like , that they do not accustom themselves more to the use of those noble fruits ; for if they did , they would not be so subject to those torturing diseases as they are ; for all foods , be they fruits or other things , and also drinks , that moderately cool the body , and are of light concoction , do naturally prevent the generation of those cruel diseases ; as on the other side , such as heat , and are of an astringent nature , do generate them in all complexions , but especially in those that are inclinable thereunto . the coelestial regiment of this fruit is to be attributed to the moon , and to the sign pisces . of squashes . these are of a mild gentle nature and operation , being briskly boyled and eaten with bread , butter , vinegar and salt ; they afford a good nourishment , but not very firm , cool the body , and are quick of concoction , cleanse the passages , are good against the obstructions of the breast , gently loosen the belly and purge by urine , especially if a whole meal be made of them without flesh , and only eaten as aforesaid . they are under the dominion of the moon and cancer . of potato's . this is a very brave noble and more excellent root than any other the west-indies bring forth , of a friendly temperate quality , somewhat windy if eaten hot or whilest the fiery atomes or vapours be in it ; therefore they are far better and wholsomer cold , as many other of the like nature are : they afford a brave firm substantial nourishment , surpassing therein all other roots , but not comparative to that of bread ; they are restorative , of a most pleasant taste , comfort and strengthen the body , of a warming nature and operation ; so that they are a good food eaten alone , or with bread , butter , flesh , or the like . the common ways of preparing or dressing them are divers , but the most common are stewing , and roasting them in the embers , the last of which is most commendable , but being more tedious than the other , is not so frequently practised : either way they make a good dish , being eaten when through cold with oyl , vinegar , salt and bread , or butter instead of oyl , to such as do not love it , or cannot procure it . as to temperature they are of a middle nature , but rather warm than cold , easie of concoction , and the drier they are prepar'd , the warmer and firmer nourishment they yield . likewise , they make a good sort of drink , but it will not admit of much age , being apt then to become acid , sharp and keen ; it may be made either stronger or smaller , according to the quantity of potato's allowed , and water put to them . there are various sorts , but the driest and yellowest are best . they are under sol , in the sign taurus . the young and tender leaves are a pretty good sallet boyl'd ▪ they cleanse the stomach and loosen the belly ; being eaten with butter ▪ vinegar , salt and bread , a fine mea● may be made of them . of yams . this also is an excellent root , temperately hot , and more dry than moist , of a lovely white colour , and pleasant innocent taste , which demonstrates their good vertues ; they afford an harmless , clean , and yet pretty substantial nourishment , neither much bind nor relax the belly , but of the two , rather loosen . they are easie of concoction , and if they be well prepared according to art , make a brave friendly pleasant food , drest with butter , vinegar and salt , and eaten with bread : they are good for every age and constitution , rarely disagreeing with any ; they are very useful to be eaten with flesh , a little flesh and good store of yams . they are under the government of venus and luna , and the sign libra . of cusado-bread . this bread is of an innocent nature and operation , yet affords a strong substantial nourishment , far beyond what most people suppose ; for being put into any kind of pottage , milk , or the like ; it dissolves its self into gellious substance , which is a token of its strength , as its pure white colour and innocent taste demonstrates its innate vertues and equality of parts : the four grand qualities ( at large described in my other treatises ) whence the four perfect tastes do proceed , being so equally mixt , that by its taste it can hardly be distinguished which does carry the upper dominion , under which simplicity lies hid the most soveraign vertues of nature ; it is most pleasant when new , but not then the wholsomest ; 't is a good ingredient to be eaten with butter , cheese , herbs , milk , or any kind of pottages , as also with flesh , and will alone sustain nature ; for a man may live as long without being tyred , and be as well supported , as to health and strength , with it , as with the best wheaten bread ; and being once familiariz'd through a little custom and use , it becomes pleasant to most ages and constitutions . i remember a master of a ship , that assured me , that being by stress of weather kept out at sea much longer than they expected , so that all their provisions were spent , but water and cusado bread , of which they had plenty ; he and his ships crew lived thereon for many days , without any other sustenance ; and though at first ( being used to variety of other foods ) they thought it some-what hard , yet after some days it became most pleasing ; and they were so far from complaining of their strength being diminished , that they found themselves more than ordinary brisk and active . as for the temperature of this bread , it is rather hot than cold , and is of easie concoction ; 't is under the government of saturn and venus , in the sign scorpio . it s poysonous liquor which is pressed out of the root when it is made into bread , is saturnine , and the white flowery substance or matter , is venereal : nor is it strange to those that understand nature's course , that poyson and most wholsom food should proceed from one and the same vegetable diversly prepared ; for such do know that in all things , ( as well as in this ) there are lurging poysons that are the root of every life , and without which there could be neither vitality nor vegetation . of ginger . this is an excellent spice , of an hot dry tart nature , endued with a stronger and more durable heat than pepper , and every way more efficacious , so that where-ever this spice is , there is no need of pepper ; it is chiefly good for cold and moist stomachs , and such as are troubled with cold windy diseases ; for it discusseth and helpeth digestion , and in some degree consumeth crude phlegmatick humors : good especially for aged people in cold and moist seasons of the year . but neither this sort of spice , nor any other , is good to be used in hot seasons or climates , except in a physical way , as i have else-where demonstrated . particularly , in young people and chollerick complexions the frequent use of such things does heat , dry and consume the purer spirits and radical moisture and inflame the blood , and in some constitutions makes it sharp and keen ; they are also injurious to the natural heat of the stomach and digestive faculty , whence the scurvey , ioynt-aches , and many cruel distempers proceed , and assist not a little to the generation of the stone , where-ever they meet apt matter for that purpose . the same is to be understood of all other things in which heat and driness do too violently predominate ; the frequent use of which is like the common drinking of brandy ; when once the stomach is accustomed to them , it cannot digest its food without them ; and yet the remedy is as bad as the disease , for as the natural heat is more debilitated , so more brandy is craved for , till people utterly destroy themselves . of oranges . there being various sorts of this fruit , differing in their temperature and nature , they are to be considered according to the sweetness , sowrness and tartness of them ; the sowrest sort are the coldest , most sharp and penetrating , and therefore are not so good and profitable as those called sevil , which is a mean between the sowr and the sweet ; and therefore is best for sawce , and far more acceptable to the pallate , but especially to the stomach , than either the sweet or the sowr , which being full ripe fresh gathered , do not only make the best sawces to most sorts of food , as herbs both raw and boyled , flesh , &c. far exceeding all vinegars made with wine or other liquors , but they also prove profitable in many diseases , especially to allay drought in feavers , and prevent the putrifaction of the humors ; for they cool and refresh the stomach , and are good moderately used in times of health for chollerick people ; but eat them not too frequently , for they astringe or bind the belly , and are not proper for phlegmatick or melancholly complexions ; and as the moderate use of them for sawce in food , does excite and sharpen the appitite , so on the contrary the frequent custom of eating them is apt to hurt the digestive faculty by their cold dry astringent qualities , they being extreams in nature , and therefore cautiously to be used . the sweet oranges are not good for sawce , for they naturally dull or subvert the appetite ; nevertheless they being of a middle nature or temperate quality , are good and very grateful to well-prepared stomachs to be eaten alone , or with some bread or other dry food after them in time of health , especially for young people , and the phlegmatick and melancholly ; but still they ought to remember their sure friend temperance , else they will prove injurious , and hinder concoction . of lemmons . as these are sharper and more sour then oranges , so they are colder , more keen or piercing , but they make a sawce that does wonderfully cool , and for the present stir up the appetite , comfort the stomach , and are good against vomiting , very grateful to such as have weak dull or flat stomachs , they cut and attenuate gross humors , allay thirst , and are refreshing to such as have hot livers ; but on the other side , if not very moderately used , their astringent , sharp or keen quality will by simile awaken the saturnal and martial fires in the body , and instead of allaying heat they inflame the blood , and irritate the natural spirits , which proves fatal as to health ; for as all such fruits are unequal in their parts , so they by simpathy cause an unequal operation in the humors , which is the radix of all distemperatures . of limes . limes are an immature fruit , in which two extream properties do predominate , viz. the saturnal and martial poysons , because the sun and coelestial influences , have not had power to raise or awaken the balsamick or friendly vertues of nature , or bring the properties into an equal operation , as is done in other fruits ; for these two fierce qualities are so powerful , as indeed being the very radix of the fruit , that the friendly property or good vertue is wholly hid or captivated by them , so that it cannot be tasted or felt ; hence the juice of this fruit does contain ( as i have elsewhere declared ) a saturnine churlish fire , which is of an hard coagulating astringent or binding nature and operation , like the raw cold saturnine air of winter , which does congeal the water , and harden all things . 2 dly . a sharp keen martial property , of a sour harsh fretting nature and operation . now these two extreams meeting together , do render it very hurtful to the genuine nature of the stomach , and generate bad blood , stir up the original poysons by simile , and the saturnine property does draw together and congeal the excrements in the bowels ; and the martial fires are forth-driving , and cannot endure to be bounded , from whence proceed various diseases , as gripes , collicks , illiacal passions , or cruel belly-akes . for this cause , our english , and others , that use these juices in their voyages to the east-indies , and other parts , are sorely vexed with many diseases , which they contract ( though they little think it ) from their punch-bowls , rather than the disagreeableness of the climate . moreover the sharp cold juices of oranges and lemmons , which in hot countries they are greedy of , and do eat too freely , do prove very pernicious as to their health ; for the truth is , it is not the climate , whether hot or cold , that causes so many diseases , but peoples intemperances and taking wrong measures ; for the natives both of the east , south and west are as healthy and long liv'd as those of the north ; and these our frequent distempers when we travel into those parts , do but declare our intemperances , and that the meats and drinks we so much desire are not proper for our bodies in such climates , where not our own irregular fancies , but the usages of the natives of each country ought to be our guides and examples , both as to meats , drinks and exercises , and then each country would soon become as natural and wholsom to us as our own , our bodies being assimulated thereunto . of pinpillow-pears . this is a fruit that is not much in use , being some-what troublesom to procure by reason of their martial weapons or prickles ; they are of a sharp brisk taste , their juices quick and penetrating , they cut phlegm , beget appetite and help conoction , being of a cooling nature , they may be eaten with a little sugar with safety , but they are chiefly good for chollerick and sanguine people , and are under mars in aries . of pepper , commonly called guinea-pepper of this there are two sorts , one great the other small ; but both are much of the same nature and operation , only the smallest is rather the hottest . they both contain three extream qualities ; viz. 1. an astringent sulpher , or stupifying poyson from saturn ; 2. a fierce bitter keen sharpness from mars ; and 3. an hot penetrating poyson from mercury . in this vegetation all friendliness and pure vertues are captivated , and the original forms of nature do predominate , there being in it no kind of equality or harmony , but all is out of tune , and the four grand qualities , whence all tastes proceed , have here their operations in discord , and confusedly combate one another ; therefore whatever any may pretend , the frequent eating of it must needs prove pernicious to health ; for those forementioned fierce poysonous qualities do by degrees as it were insensibly prey upon and violate the natural heat , and hinders the way of the spirits , as if men designed to mortifie their natural legs , on purpose to use wooden ones or crutches ; so they destroy the genuine innate heat of their stomachs , and vainly endeavour to procure a false and adventitious one , that may better ( forsooth ) supply nature . the truth is , this hot fiery sawce does powerfully stir up or beget appetite , and warms the stomach , which does intice many to eat it with their common food , but they never consider the mischiefs it brings unto health , being like brandy , a dram of which after a full meal of heavy victuals , will help concoction , and ease the burthened stomach , but the frequent use of it will so destroy the natural heat , that the stomach will not be able , after a little time , to digest its food , neither with it nor without it : so this spice being too much eaten , wounds nature to the very heart ; for by degrees it debilitates the proper heat , infects the blood with a salt sharp keen quality , partches up and consumes the sweet oyl and radical moisture , suffocates the pure spirits by whole-sale , causing the blood ( their limpid fountain and natural habitation ) to become wheyish and watery . especially , if chollerick or sanguine complexion'd people shall accustom themselves to the eating of such sawces , it will much sooner and more deplorably vitiate the tone of their stomachs , than of such as are plegmatick ; but they are not good nor natural for any whatsoever , except now and then in a physical way for very cold dull heavy phlegmatick people , and they must eat it sparingly too ; but the mischief is , whoever shall accustom themselves to these sawces , cannot forbear from excess therein , without great trouble and constraint upon themselves : the very same is to be understood of all other extreams , as brandy , tobacco , and the like . besides , all such things are far more pernicious , and bring greater danger to health in hot countries , than in colder climates , as many have found by woful experience , because there the central heat is nothing so strong and powerful as in colder regions , and consequently the pure spirits and radical moisture weaker , and more apt to be wounded , suffocated or evaporated , as all do know that have eyes that can see into the arcana of nature . but to return to our guinea-pepper , it is such an extream in nature , viz. so hot and poysonous , that if the bigger sort be dryed , and the cods cut and the seeds scattered amongst clothes , hats , or the like , that are to be packt up , it proves the best preservative from the moth , and other vermine that is known ; for its excessive keenness destroys all generation , even in the very bud . likewise , if it be burnt in a room , the doors and windows being close shut , it will destroy and kill all buggs , fleas , or the like , and you too , if you do not get out in time , its fumes are so hot , poysonous and penetrating , when once the fire has open'd its body , and manifested what before internally lay hid . this bigger sort our english do commonly pickle , and so preserve it for a common sawce to eat with flesh : now this pickling of it with salt and vinegar does still add to its heat and sharpness ; for salt is of an hot harsh sharp nature , and if it be not moderately eaten , dries , heats and is of a partching operation , very inimical to health , but a ring-leader to the scurvey and other diseases , and vinegar is also of an hot keen fretting nature , especially when joyned or incorporated with such high fires and things of unequal natures : therefore the frequent use of this sort of swace is to be accounted very injurious to health , especially in such hot climates , where the continual influences of the sun do more exhale and draw forth the radical moisture , thereby weakning the central parts , which ought therefore rather to be refresht and cherisht by proper foods , than annoyed and prejudiced by such hot violent things , as do yet further depress and debilitate them . of occora , or grommer . this is a brave noble fruit , and being boyled , they make a gallant substantial food , affording a good firm nourishment , being eaten with butter , vinegar , and bread. some will boyl and eat them with flesh , but they do not eat so well as many other sorts of herbs and roots do in that case ; for they being in themselves of a jellyous nature , do not seem so proper to be eaten with flesh : but they make an excellent pottage , which if well prepared , and proper ingerdients added , afford a brave strong firm nourishment , and yet easie of concoction . if the intrinsick vertues of this fruit were understood , the food made thereof would be had in far greater estimation than it is ; for both the fruit it self and the pottage made thereof are of singular vertues and use for weakly people , and such as are inclinable to consumptions , weak heats and obstructions of the breast , far more excellent than mr. doctors ielly made of harts-horn , and the like , as being much more natural and agreeable to the stomach . which way ever you dress them they are not only delightful to the pallate , when a little innur'd to them , but also easie of concoction , gently loosing the belly , of a moderate or middle nature as to heat , and may by all ages and constitutions , healthy or sickly , be eaten with safety , and to the advantage of health and strength ; and we do advise all the english to eat of it more frequently , and then they shall assuredly find more vertues therein than is here set down . of aguma . this is an herb of a bitter nature , but when boyled , that martial taste is much allayed , and it becomes a brave noble salad or food , being boyled in plenty of good water , and eaten with butter , venegar , salt and bread , or with flesh ; for it powerfully opens the gates of nature , and the obstructions of the breast and stomach , it moderately relaxes the belly , cools and refresheth all the internal parts , affording brisk lively spirits , pure blood , and a good habit of body , if temperance be observed by the eaters thereof , which does give the greatest credit and reputation to all sorts of meats and drinks ; for the best and most natural cannot but prove burthensome and harmful , when sobriety is wanting . the excellency of this herb does chiefly reside in the distasteful or bitter quality , which at first eating is somewhat unpleasant , but a little custome will make it friend and more delightsom than others that are less bitter ; for all herbs are the most grateful to the stomach , and easiest of digestion , in which the bitter quality or taste is a little predominant , for this property is lively , and the cause of motions quick and penetrating ; for which cause the wise antients have noted , and not without sufficient ground , all or most bitter herbs to be good against most kinds of stoppages and obstructions . and therefore on that account , this herb is to be preferred before those of a sweeter milder nature , because all sweet things are heavy and more flat on the stomach , and harder of concoction , and nothing so brisk and lively ; for which reason the natives in guinea , have a certain root or fruit call'd tantarobois , which is full of bitter seeds , and them they mix with their foods , which proves very profitable to their healths , so that they live strong and lusty to very great ages . this herb agumma , is under the government of mercury and mars , in the sign gemini . of red-weed , or catterpillars . this is an herb of a mild gentle friendly nature and operation , easie of concoction , cleanseth the stomach , and gently loosens the belly , and is very profitable boyled in plenty of water , and eaten with butter , salt and bread , as also with flesh , but especially with salt-fish ; for by its mild friendly nature it allayes the harsh stubborn fierceness of such flesh , and the heat of the salt , which if frequently eaten without store of either herbs or roots to qualifie them , proves very prejudicial to health , especially in hot countries . the truth is , this is an excellent herb , and ought to be encreased and planted for general use ; for it ought to be held in greater estimation than either mutton or beef , or indeed any other sort of flesh , it being an allayer of all immoderate heat : it is under the dominion of iupiter , in pisces . there are also a great number of brave herbs in the west-indies , which are transplanted from the more northern climates , and thrive very well there , viz. sage , rosemary , thyme , winter and summer savory , mint , penny-royal , parsely , charvil , onnions , lettice , sorrel , beetes both white and red , spinnage , cabadges or colworts , comfry , and many other gallant wholsome herbs , and they are all or most of them by the coelestial influences and continual enlivening beams of that fountain of heat , the sun ▪ rendred far more fragrant and salutiferous than in colder regions , and so do make most excellent sallads , which being mixt with oyl or butter , the juice of oranges and salt , warm the whole body , and more naturally and pleasantly exhillerate the spirits than any sort of wine drank in moderation . some brief directions for the preservation of health , and life in hot climates . it is a very common conceit amongst the europeans , that of late are come to inhabit in plantations of america , that by the nature of the climate or by reason of the unusual heats , people there are not so long-liv'd as in the more cold northren parts of the world ; and for this they appeal to experience ; do not we see ( say they ) how men are cut off by diseases in the prime of their years , and very few attain to old age ? whence 't is a common proverb amongst them , soon ripe , soon rotten , as if this were the very nature of the climate ; but this is all mistake ; they blame the climate , when themselves are only to blame : 't is their own intemperance , not that of the heavens , which shortens their days : the wise and merciful god hath ordered so providentially all parts of this habitable world , that his creature [ man ] may thereon live comfortably , if he please : 't was the error of the antients when they divided the earthly globe into five zones , to imagine two of them uninhabitable , one of which they called the frigid zone , through excessive cold , and the other torrid zone , through extreamity of heat . but experience has confuted their guessing philosophy , and shews us , that both these are commodious enough to dwell in , if discretion and sobriety be used ; is one region cold ? god has given its inhabitants strong constitutions , great stomachs , gross suitable food , and furze wherewith to defend them . is another very hot ? here are refreshing briezes constantly imployed by nature , to fan and divert them , rare delicate fruits , easie of digestion , to supply all the necessities of nature , and support them in strength and health . but such is the perversity of men , that being depraved by custom , they pursue and take quite contrary measures to those that nature dictates , and in the hottest climates gorge themselves with the grossest foods , various dishes of flesh , fish and fowls , whereof they daily eat to gluttony , and the strongest liquors , as madera wines , brandy and punch ; so that where they need the least , finest and lightest meats and drinks , they cloy and oppress nature with the grossest and strongest ; and is it any wonder that they are then afflicted with diseases , or cut off by immature deaths ? if a man will turn the top of his candle downwards , and extinguish it by excess of tallow , how unjustly does such an one blame the winds for putting out its light ? the sweet influences of the coelestials , and especially the heat of heaven's bright eye ( the sun ) does in hot countries prepare all sorts of vegetations and fruits , so as that they become more wholsom and proper for the body , than in colder regions , thereby pointing out which is the most natural food in such climates ; of which the natives ( though by us esteemed barbarous ) are so wise as to take notice ; for they in most hot countries do more incline to eat herbs and fruits ( though not so much as they ought , nor do they prepare many of them so well as they should ) yet thereby , and by being strangers to riot and intemperance , they retain an undisturbed health to very great ages ; so in the east-indies , where the food is chiefly herbs , fruits and grains , and their drink only water , to meet with persons of one hundred years of age , is common ; nay , it is credibly reported , that some of those called brachmans , who do wholly abstain from eating either flesh or fish do lengthen out their days to one hundred and twenty , and one hundred and fifty years : and in guinea , tho' it be a very hot country , and generally the constitution of the air accounted very unwholsom , yet you shall see the ethiopians frequently live one hundred and twenty years in great strength and vigour . by all which it is plain , that the fault is neither in the soil , nor the climate , but it is intemperance both in quantity and quality , is the main cause of the grievous distempers and short lives of our english that travel into hot countries , and also of the weakness and untimely death of so many of their children . for prodigious in the excess they commit , such as cannot rationally be imagined of any that had not a mind willfully to destroy themselves : for to omit their extravagances in ordinary diet , the vast quantities of flesh and fish which they unnecessarily devour , i have heard it credibly related and affirmed , that there has been the quantity of one thousand or one thousand two hundred bottles of wine , madera and claret , consumed at one feast , made by a common plantes of barbadoes ; and that the like superfluity ( as if they would vye for luxury with the old romans , in the declining age of their empire ) is not infrequent in that and other western plantations . now let all the world judge , if men will thus seek death in the errors of their lives , how is the country to be complained of ? he that takes his share of three or four such treats , will have little reason to accuse the heat of the weather for casting him into a feaver . if our english , and others , that travel to and live in those westenr , eastern or southern regions would be but so obedient to nature , and kind to themselves as to observe a proper order and right method of living , they would not only live long , but healthy . and for their furtherance and benefit therein ( i mean , such as have not absolutely forsworn hearkening to any remonstrances of reason , nor betrothed themselves to madness and ruinating debauchery ) i shall here add a few general rules or directions for the preservation of health , very necessary to be regarded by all such as live in hot climates . 1. flesh ought not to be eaten at all , or very sparingly ; for flesh in hot countries is nothing so firm , good and wholsom as in cold ( though the eating thereof may well be spared in both ) but on the other side , herbs , roots and most fruits are abundantly more excellent for food in hot climates than in cold ; the same is to be understood by fish , as experience has taught the natives of all such places , who therefore do more incline to eat herbs , fruits and vegetations ; and for want of this prudence , have not many of our northern people after a full meal of flesh or fish in those hot parts , been suddenly surprized with various cruel diseases , as feavers , fluxes , and the like . 2. full and liberal eating of any sort of food , proves of more dangerous consequence to health , especially if the foods be gross , fat and succulent , because the natural and central heat is by the great power of the coelestial influences continually exhaled , and so becomes more external , which does in a degree debilitate the digestive faculty ; for which cause a mans stomach and appetite is rarely so sharp and strong as in cold countries . 3. great drinking , especially of strong exhilerating liquors , as wine , brandy , or other spirits , is very pernicious ; for all such drinks , if not cautiuosly used , and well allay'd with water , proves of fatal consequence , and wounds nature to the very heart , as daily experience does testifie , and doth sooner destroy health than in cold countries , though bad in both . i know this is contrary to the vulgar notions , but it is agreeable to truth , experience and reason ; only people , by a vitious inclination , had a mind to debauch themselves with strong liquors , and the devil , to humor them , suggested that such liquors ( forsooth ! ) were necessary , and most to be used in hot countries ; and so they got a colour for their excess , and continue the maxime and now plead , they must be drunk if they mean to be healthy , &c. but nature , as well as christianity , will read them another lesson ; for in hot climates , the natural or central heat being not so strong , by reason of the forcible influences of the sun , powerfully exhaling the radical moisture , opening the pores , and too violently evaporating the spirits , the stomach and digestive faculty thereby become weak , and the inclination to drinking is encreased ; for which reason many desire hot spirituous drinks , finding a present refreshment ; for such liquors do powerfully awaken the internal or central spirits by simile , which makes the drinkers quick , lively and brisk , during the time of their operation , which is but for a moment , but afterwards they find themselves heavy , dull and indisposed , their stomach more feeble , cold and raw than before , which inclines them to take t'other dram ; and still , the more the worse , till nature be debilitated to the utmost extremity . the same operation have all wines and other drinks , if temperance be wanting , but not so violently as the former ; therefore in all hot climates there ought to be double the care and temperance , as in cold , both in meats , drinks and exercises ; of which , the natives of hot countries may be our examples ; for they do , for the most part live temperately , their drink water , or wine allay'd with water ; their food mean , or more simple and innocent than ours , whereby they are better preserved in health ; the constitutions of all people in hot climates being not so able to bear or endure great meals and superfluous drinking of strong liquors , as in cold . therefore most of those that in such places accustom themselves to the frequent use of those strong spirituous fiery drinks , and the common course of gormandizing on flesh and fish , become very obnoxious to the dry belly-ake , or griping of the guts , dropsies and the gout . for all such foods and drinks too violently stir up and consume the natural heat and moisture , whereby the digestive faculty of the stomach is rendred uncapable to concoct or make any perfect seperation , whereby the body grows oppressed with a mass of crudities and noxious iuices , that sometimes fall into the joynts , infeebling and tormenting them ; and this is the original of that rich evil , call'd , the gout . in other complexions these and the like disorders prey upon the sollid parts , and waste the flesh , taking away natural strength and vigour ; so that such persons pine and languish under such a load of daily ingested aliment ; for nothing is more usual in nature , than for extreams to generate or occasion each other , and these you call consumptions . in others , for want of heat and moisture the excrement in the bowels , is contracted into so hard a substance , that it cannot freely pass ; and this is that which the learned call , the illiacal passion , and the vulgar , the plague in the guts , for which most cruel disease there is scarce a doctor that hath yet found out a certain remedy . now in these our western plantations all these tormenting diseases are much encreased by the frequent tippling of that pernicious drink called punch , the nature and effects of which i have herein before hinted , but more fully demonstrated in my treatise , entituled , the country-man's companion , pag. 110. in some other constitutions the central heat and humor radicalis being wasted by such unfit meats and drinks so received , is turn'd into a flux of humors , both windy and watery , which swells the lower parts of the body ; and this is the generation of your dropsies . but as the lord our bountiful creator is always good , and his hand-maid ( nature ) an indulgent mother ; so they have , as it were , chalked out the means of preventing these evils , and prescribed proper diet and drinks in every country and climate to its inhabitants , by the natural productions of each respective region , would men be so wise to follow those dictates ; for all hot climates , ( as is before intimated ) do furnish their inhabitants with wonderful variety and plenty of brave noble , and most fragrant herbs , fruits , roots and grains , and most pure water , far exceeding those of cold countries , both in quantity and quality ; for in those hot regions , heaven's bright lamp , that central fire of the universe , the svn , has greater power , strength and vertue to fit and prepare all things for our use ; and if our english , and others , would be so prudent as to accustom themselves to those harmless natural simple food and moderate drinks , then the fore-mentioned distempers would hardly be known amongst them . 4. they ought likewise to have regard to the proper times of their eating , or meals , that is to say , to eat about eight or nine a clock in the morning , and then again at four or five 'i th afternoon ; for the common time of dinner about twelve or one , is neither rational nor natural , because the sun is then near the meridian , and doth then so powerfully draw forth , exhale , and weaken the natural and centeral heat of the stomach , that it indisposes the whole body , more than at any other time of the day , so that then nature is not so well able to perform her kitchin-work in the stomach , by a perfect concoction or separation of the meats and drinks , and so all the senses are dulled , and the intellect stupified , and not a few seeds of diseases are thereby sown throughout the body . besides the long mornings work or exercise , has by that time pretty much wearied , dulled , or evaporated the brisk lively spirits , which are alwayes the main supports of concoction and digestion , and so nature is still rendred the more uncapable of doing her work with ease . but in the morning , after nocturnal repose has recovered the wasted spirits , and made them brisk , airy , and full of life , the digestive faculty is fortified , and rendred able to digest the same quantity of food , with much more ease and safety . the same is to be understood in the afternoon , or towards night , for then the heat of the day being over , and the body becomes cool , airy , and full of life , and being a sufficient time before sleep , as at four or five a clock , such suppers will not incommode nature , nor hinder rest , as late eating is apt to do , especially in hot countries , and still the more in maturer age , or such as begin to be striken in years , to whom such meals are most injurious . 5. such as have due regard to their health and strength , ought for the reasons aforesaid to rest from eleaven a clock till two in the afternoon , which will wonderfully recover their spirits , and render them much better able to go through with their labour with a lively vigour , and to do more preparation of each of them ; together with the nature and operation of various drinks , as most sorts of wine , ale , beer , syder , each spoken to distinctly by themselves , &c. 8. they ought to avoid the frequent eating and drinking of all foods or liquors in which the sweet quality is too highly predominant ; for sweet foods are of far more dangerous consequence as to health , than most people imagin ; for all sweet things when fermented in the stomach do turn to the highest sowerness , viz. into a keen sharpness , which does not only spoil the digestive faculty , but infects the blood with a mangie , scorbutick humour , causing stoppages in all the external parts , whence proceed indispositions , and akeing loyns , and feeble joynts . for the same cause it is , that such as eat much sugar or sweet food , are extreamly troubled with rotten decay'd teeth and gumes ; for those dullified foods cause such a sour acid quality as generates putrifaction , which centers on the teeth and between the gumes , and so destroys them : and it were far better and more healthy for people , if they would accustom themseves to foods and drinks in which the bitter and sower qualities were more predominant , especially in hot climates where most sorts of fruits are sweetish , for the root of all motion , opening and cleansing , consists in the bitter quality ; for which reason the sophys or wise-men , both of the southern and eastern countries have taught the people to moderate all or most of their foods with herbs and fruits that are of a bitterish quality , which does wonderfully support nature and preserve health , whereby they attain to very great ages , as we noted before of those in guinea , and the same may be observed elsewhere ; for those patriarchs whose longevity we find recorded , did all of them live in very hot countries : but their temperance supported nature , and so it will ( in a proportionable degree ) all that practice it . and therefore if these rules of health be seriously regarded and followed , those causeless scandals on the climate , the heat , &c. of these happy western , southern and eastern regions ( not inferior for health or pleasantness ( if rightly understood ) to any in the world ) will cease , and the english traders or inhabitants may there extend their lives in comfort to as good an old age , as they would have promised themselves in their native country : but without discretion and temperance in diet , drinks , exercises and affections of the mind , diseases will certainly attend us , wherever we reside ; and an immature death be apt to seize us : there is no region so happy , no elevation of the pole so temperate , no air so salubrious , as to keep people in health whether they will or no , and those that obstinately violate nature , and wilfully persue courses absolutely destructive , may justly be rank't amongst the number of self-murtherers ; for it matters not much whether a man kill himself all at once , or by repeated acts and degrees , only the latter seems less excuseable , since it has not the pretext of a sudden temptation or passion , but seems a more deliberate design of destroying both his body and soul , against all cautions and arguments from time to time offered to him , both by reason and experience to the contrary : those therefore that would avoid the brand of being felo's-de-se , let them before it be too late abandon riot and excess , and embrace temperance and sobriety , so shall they have health of body and strength of mind , and length of dayes here , and a blissful eternity hereafter . a caution . let no sober well minded men , nor any that profess the honourable name of christianity be so frequent in those places of debauchery , viz , taverns and ale-houses , the first whereof being the only places of all manner of wickedness , where all the high lofty state of superfluity is practised , being the haunts of evil spirits , and where their chief work is done , women are defloured , and estates spent , the soul made uncapable of salvation , the health destroyed ; in a word , the whole macrocosmical man ruined , and is ●he very radix of devilish fewds and cruel murders : therefore let no good christians dare to be seen in any such places ; for tell me , i pray , what pleasure or delight can a sober well-minded man take in being amongst such a devilish croud , where there is all kinds of wicked lewd behaviour , as swearing , lying , baudy songs , drunken healths , and roaring huzza's , where a man can hardly hear himself spake , like the fiery unequal operations of the elements , or sea-tempests and storms . now if christian men scruple the wearing of needless o naments and garments , with other things of gallantry and state , wherefore should they not shun and avoid the greater evils : and although it be lawful to drink wine in a tavern , and ale in an ale-house , in cases of necessity , as travelling or the like , ye● they ought in cities and towns to avoid drinking or frequenting such places , whereby you will discountenance the evils thereof , and preserve your selves harmless and innocent . 2. all sober people ought to refrain drinking between meals , especially all gentlemen , merchants , shop-keepers , &c. who are the men that drink the brave noble exhilerating liquors in superfluity ; which a little custom would make most pleasant and easie ; besides , it would free the passages , and disburthen the stomach from all superfluous matter , by which the blood would become fine , and cause it to circulate freely , whence will proceed pure brisk lively spirits , which will also render the whole body and mind lightsom , strong and healthy ; besides it would cut off all superfluity and wantonness in the bud , and gain time , which being well improved becomes a great blessing . 3. not only abstaining from wine ought to be minded but also in foods , great care must be observed ; for those people that live mostly upon clean innocent foods , are brisker , more lightsom and airy , and their minds better disposed , and there does naturally arise in them praises and thanks to god for what they have , be it never so mean , as i remember one assured me , that after a little time of living on mean foods , was more apt to give praise in his heart to god , for a piece of bread , than before for the highest delicacies . 4. whensoever any persons of quality , or men of estates shall in private quarrels commit murder , or kill a man ; if the friends of this murderer shall obtain a pardon from the prince or governour of the place or country , then let it be a custom for his whole estate ( if childless ) to be forfeited and given to the poor , and a good part of it to the use and children of the killed person ; but if the murderer have children , then but one half of his estate . by which means in a few years there would be yearly revenues for the poor , old , blind and lame of most countries and cities ; besides , it would in some degree put a stop to such vile practices , and render such savages uncapable of committing the like offence for the future . the end of the first part. the negro's complaint of their hard servitude , and the cruelties practised upon them by divers of their m●sters professing christianity in the west-indian plantations . the second part. complaints and lamentations are the natural language of the miserable . 't is some kind of easement to hearts swell'd with grief , and almost broken with the rigors of oppression , to tell the sad stories of their woes , and when they have lost all other liberty , to bemoan themselves with freedom : more especially , since nature does not so readily furnish us with tears , ( the usual expressions of sorrow ) we hope we may be allow'd to make our groans articulate , and declare in words how intollerably we suffer by the deeds of unreasonable men . but alas ! what language is suitable for such a purpose ? what expressions will be able to equal our afflictions ? or to whom shall we address our mournful appeals ? if to our country-men , the inhabitants of those lands where we first suckt in vital air , and unhappily saluted the light , they are too remote to hear us , as well as unable to help us ; nay more , many of us owe the original of all our miseries to some of their unnatural cruelty , revenge or avarice : shall we present our dolesom narratives to strangers ? they will scarce be able to credit us when we set forth nothing but certain truths and woful experiences ; such superlative inhumanity amongst nominal christians will surpass all belief , and the extremity of our calamities making them seem romantick , debarrs us even of pity and commiseration , those general slaves of helpless misery : shall we then fling our selves at our masters feet , and with universal cries importune them to compassion and charity ? alas ! those vertues are plants that scarce grow in these islands ; nothing thrives here so fast as po●sonous tobacco and furious pride , sweet sugar and most bitter ill nature : a false conceit of interest has blinded their eyes and stopt their ears , and rendred their hearts harder than rocks of adam●nt , more remorseless than hungry bears or tygers in the hercanian wilderness : to sigh they interpret to rebell , and if we do in the least complain , 't is with them a sufficient cause for addition of stripes , and encrease of ill usage . beset thus with thick-coming sorrows , and without prospect of help or relief from men , to whom can we apply our selves , but to the fountain of mercy and goodness , from whom we and all other creatures derive their being ? to thee therefore , o thou eternal and infinite unknown parent of angels and men ! who numberest the sands of the shore , and didst pour forth the ocean-sea , who formedst the glorious sun , and endued all the stars with their lustre , in comparison of whom princes are vanity , and kings but animated shadows , who art gracious in thy goodness to the poor and oppressed , and whose vengeance shall be terrible to the proud and the cruel . to thee , the only refuge of the distressed , we direct our complaints ! by thy holly power , heaven and earth , and all things therein , were made , and by the same preserved and sustained ! thou hast formed man in thy own likeness , and given him dominion and government , not only over the inferior creatures , but also over each other , in clemency and well-doing ; but instead thereof he hath turned away the eye of his mind from thy counsels , and hath precipitated his imagination into the centre of wrath and fierceness , thereby defaming his noble birth , and depraving that innocent paradisical estate he was created in : so that whereas he was made a sociable creature and intended for the well-ordering of the inferior beings , and the help and comfort of those of his own species by mutural acts of benovelence , courtesie and charity ; he is now become a tyrant , a plague , a professed enemy , hunter , betrayer , destroyer and devourer of all the inhabitants of earth , air and water , and to those of his own kind no less fierce and cruel ; so instead of cherishing , assisting , and relieving one another , they fight and tear each other like tygers , and he is the bravest fellow that can invent the most mischievous weapons and engines of destruction : the stronger and more subtle murder , enslave and oppress the weaker , and more innocent and simple sort at their pleasure , and pretend they have a right , because they have got power so to do . nor is this only amongst us , and those people called heathens , but even those who call themselves by thy name , and boast the title of christians , are no less active in these exploits and practices than any other . we find and feel by sad experience the fatal consequences of this apostacy from the dignity of the humane nature : we had never been snatcht from the lands of our nativity ▪ never travers'd liquid mountains , nor journied through the hazards of vast seas , to be cast away on land ; never been brought in fetters into new worlds , nor made perpetual slaves in regions which neither we nor our fore-fathers ever heard of before , if we had not first forsaken and violated that law of our creator which he had planted in us , and entred with our wills into the root of bitterness and the fierce wrath , whereby the savage nature got the dominion in the hearts of us , and our ancestors , so that fury , revenge , covetousness , pride , vain glory and intemperance is never satisfied ; hence fewds and wars are set on foot in our native countries , and those that are strongest and most numerous , kill , slay and murder the other at their pleasure ; and as for those that they save alive , 't is not out of pity or kindness , but to gratifie their own covetousness , by making merchandize of them , and exposing them to slavery , far worse than death . for then we are hurried from our nearest and dearest relations , the kind husband from his loving wife , the tender mother from her helpless babes , and youths ( the comfort and joy of age ) snatcht from their mourning parents , and that without any hopes of ever seeing one another again . thus are we sometimes driven many miles by land over partching deserts , and through howling wildernesses , down to the sea-coasts , and and factories being all the way miserably abus'd by our unmerciful drivers , and wearied and spent with over-travel , hunger , drought and excessive heat ▪ which puts a period to many of our sweet lives ; but the same , when it happens , is reckoned an happiness ; for thereby that greater and long lasting misery is prevented , which those that survive must endure ; for no sooner are they arrived at the sea-side but they are sold ( like beasts ) to the merchant , who glad of the booty puts us aboard the ship , claps us under deck , and binds us in chains and fetters , and thrusts us into the dark noisom hold , so many and so close together , that we can hardly breathe , there are we in the hottest of summer , and under that scorching climate without any of the sweet influences of the air , or briezing gale to refresh us , suffocated , stewed and parboyled altogether in a crowd , till we almost rot each other and our selves . nay , many times not only our profest enemies , but our treacherous friends betray us to these intollerable miseries ; for so far is the root of bitterness irritated , and such an ascendent it hath got over us , that for vain trifles our paltry parents , shall sell their children , and husbands their wives into perpetual slavery ; nor let any christian tyrants for this upbraid us ; for if it be ( as in truth it is ) a most unnatural wickedness in our people to sell them , is it not upon the matter almost as bad in the christians to buy them ? nay , rather is not the chiefest crime in them , since they are the tempters and occasioners of it ? for they allure our ●eople to it , by offering them several sorts of goods which they find they have most mind to ? and is not this a fine imployment think you , for christians , to run to remotest regions , to get their innocent fellow creatures and make slaves of them ? whilst we are thus mew'd up in the ship , besides the inconveniencies of heat , and danger of suffocation , and the torture of our chains , we also run the hazard of being half starved ; for the ship-masters out of covetousness , and for their own lucre , will not allow us fit or competent meats or drinks , but just enough to keep life and soul together , and that corrupt , decayed stinking and unwholsome , by which all our healths and lives are destroyed or impaired ; for oft times half or more of our wretched number dye in the voyage , and others of us , of more sturdy spirits and tempers , when they see themselves thus captiv'd , scorning to preserve a life that thenceforth would be only advantagious to others , and burthensome to them , by refusing all sustenance , have shortened their dayes . as for the rest we are so generally wounded in our healths by the ill ●sage we receive on ship-board , that we seldom recover our strength , and when we come on shore we find no ●etter fare nor treatment from our ●ew christian masters , most of them proving as sharp and tyrannical as our ●wn heathen fathers and brethren ( as ●hey call them ) for when we by the ship-master and seamen have suffered so many violent miseries and sore op●ressions , that we are thereby as poor , weak and feeble as death , so that we ●an hardly either stand or go , which ●endring us not capable to answer ●he covetous ends of our new masters , our afflictions are thereby doubled ; for when our strength fails us , the inconsiderate and unmerciful overseers make nothing to whip and beat us , ●nd the best words they can afford us , ●re , damn'd doggs , black ugly devils , ●dle sons of ethiopean whores , and the ●ike . alas ! we expected another sort of treatment from the christians , who boast themselves the sons and favourites of the god of love and goodness , and who ( we have been informed ) are , or ought to be endued with the spirit of meekness , innocency , and doin unto all as they would be done unto . we understand that to be a christian is to live under the government of the divine principle of benignity and well-doing , from whence all good vertues are deriv'd , as streams from a fountain : but verily we find little , very little , or scarce any sign at all of this excellent spirit to reign in the hearts of our masters or overseers ; but on the contrary , find them over-ruled and filled with devilishness , cruelty and oppression , which are so extream that we can as hardly bear them , as the israelites of old could the grievous and unreasonable burthens of egyptian , pharoah , and his task-masters , which did force them to cry unto the lord for ease and deliverance from those cruel bonds and slaveries , even as we do at this day . to enumerate the miseries we endure by a particular bill of 〈◊〉 , would be too tedious , we shall instance in some few of the most insufferances , that all knowing power , to whom our cries are directed , knows all the several aggravations of them , and the consciences of our masters , cannot but witness to the truth and justice of our complaints . 1. though we acknowledge man is born to labour , and had not hands only given him to put victuals into his mouth , but first to use them in tilling the earth , and getting food and all other things requisite for humane life , yet certainly the merciful god never intended that any of his creatures should be forced to labour beyond their natural strength , nor have burthens imposed on their weary shoulders , greater than they are able to bear : labour was undoubtedly enjoyned as an exercise to preserve health and strength , and prevent sloth and idleness , not as a perpetual plague to destroy nature , and make life a torment , and death a courtesy ; yet our flint-hearted tyrants , not content with diligent industry and pains , force us to unreasonable labours , both for toil and continuance , beyond the power of nature ; and whereas a good man is merciful even to his beast , they extend no compassion to us , who are of the same species with themselves , but slave us on in continual drudgery , till our heart-strings crack , and our nerves are enfeebled , and our marrow is exhausted , and our bones fall under their burthens , and our spirits are consumed , and our souls in weariness and anguish ; wish for death rather than life . the end of all natures motions is rest , nor can she perform any of her operations without refreshment ; ground alwayes plow'd yields little encrease , but must lie fallow now and then , if you expect a crop : a bo● alwayes bent will hardly send an arrow to the mark , but our inconsiderate masters regard neither the voice of nature nor reason , but with cruelty compel us to labour beyond our strength , and allow us no competent time of rest or refreshment , in so much that often-times we are forc'd to work so long at the wind-mills , until we become so weary , dull , faint , heavy and sleepy , that we are as it were deprived of our natural senses , or like men in a maze , that we fall into danger , and oft times our hands and arms are crusht to pieces , and sometimes most part of our bodies ; and though sometimes these evils do befall us through carelessness , yet oft times they come by the means aforesaid . so also we are forced to stand and work at the coppers , in the hot sulpherous fumes , till nature being overcome with weariness and want of proper rest we fall into the fierce boyling syrups , and in these disasters little or no pitty is taken of us , for though some indeed profess a superfinal sorrow for our mischances , it is cheifly for their own sakes , not ours , because thereby they have lost the worth of so much money as we were reckon'd at , not for the loss of our lives , which yet to us are as precious , and of as much value as those of our proud and haughty masters ; and so also they are in thy sight , o our gracious creator ! for we likewise are the work of thine hands , and endued with equal faculties , both sensitive and intellectual . as in the excess of labour , so also 〈◊〉 the hours of working , our christian and european masters do commit great errors , compelling us to work ●ll day in the scorching heat , till our spirits are thereby exhaled , and our radical moisture dryed up , which is the fountain of life ; they seldom conside●ing the nature of hot climates , wherein no mortal can endure so many hours severe labour as in colder regions . for , 1 st . the constitutions of men in hot climates , are naturally weaker than in cold : 2 dly . they come to maturity in fewer years : 3 dly . the continual heat of the scorching sun opens the pores , and at those innumerable sally-ports powerfully draws out and steals away the sweet oyl and radical balsom of nature , which causeth a dull faintiness and wearisom indisposition to attend the whole body with great drought , which proves very injurious to health and strength : 4 thly . all sorts of foods are here of a weaker or more unfirm nature than those of cold ; and as they sooner arrive to maturity , so consequently they sooner perish and corrupt . for all which reason , it is unreasonable to expect men should constantly and without due intermission undergo such labour and travel in torrid climates , as in those more temperate and refrigerating . do not hot countries presently set open all the gates and secret passages of nature , even to the very centre ? which weakens and evaporates the pure subtle or volatile spirits , whence follows excessive sweating , drought & faintiness ; whereas on the contrary , cold climates shutting up the external passages , drives the natural heat inward , and makes it more central , which occasions strong natural heats and stomachs , able to digest the firmest foods , and in great quanties , whence persons there become strong , hardy and healthy ; likewise most sorts of food in cold countries is of a firmer , stronger nature , and generates a more vigorous nourishment , and firmer flesh and fat , and their fruits will generally keep longer good : nor did the all-wise iehovah intend or require men to work and labour so strenuously much and long in hot climates , having in his natural providence made no such occasion for it , because there is there no winter , nor sharp saturnal airs to cut off and destroy what the summer brings forth , but nature here is always pregnant and teeming , and displays her self in all seasons of the year , with pleasant and fragrant fruits , and prepares them to an higher degree , and fitter for present food , though not so firm and lasting . besides , people in hot regions have not need of so many things , there is no occasion for their houses being so close nor furnisht with so many circumstances of beds and bedding , continual fires , and the like provisional accommodations to be laid up before-hand , either for man or beast ; as also half the clothing will furnish nature ; and the same is to be understood of foods ; for all things necessary to the maintenance of life are far easier , and with half the labour procured in hot countries . but these things our masters never lay to heart , but lay burthen upon burthen , till we utterly sink under the weight of their oppressions ; though many of them cannot but be sensible , that they themselves , though they do little or nothing but eat and drink of the choicest meats & drinks , and sleep their fill without disturbance , yet they are here nothing so strong or able to endure labour and robust exercises , as they have been and would be in cold countries ; which reflection , if they had any bowels of humane sympathy and compassion , should encline them to moderate our servitude , and grant some allowances of respit and refreshment unto us , such as might enable us both more cheerfully and effectually to serve them . it is a custom amongst many of the great dons of masters , to allow their servants little more than only a small piece of ground to raise their whole food and sustenance from ; and tho' this be hard , yet that which renders it worse , is , that they will not allow us any sufficient time to manure it , but we must abate it out of that little time which is permitted us to rest in , otherwise , it must be done upon their sabbath day , whereon we are allowed to rest from our ordinary labours for our masters ; but if then we must work as hard to manure our small pittance of ground , or else starve , i do not find what great advantage we have of that day more than another . it is also an order or custom in some plantations , where the christians inhabit , to allow their negroes two hours rest at noon , viz. from eleaven of the clock till one , which is a wise and righteous law ▪ but few there are that will admit us above half that time , but hurry us again to work , which proves very injurious to our healths ; for then the sun ( which is the central heat of the universe ) draws near the meridean , which does powerfully open the pores , especially of those that labour hard in the scorching beams thereof , and exhales the radical moisture , which weakens and indisposes the whole body and mind , and renders us unfit for the after noons work ; for he that shall rest from eleaven till wo , which is three hours , shall thereby be rendred so lively , lightsom and brisk , that he shall be able to perform more labour than another man of the same natural strength , that is kept to it all day long , or allowed but one hours rest only , and with much less prejudice to nature . this is a thing worthy to be considered by our masters ; for it would add much to their profit and our health , which is also their wealth ; for pray tell us , o you brave and swaggering christians ! who exercise this strange and severe mastership over us , who sport your selves in all manner of superfluity and wantonness , and grow fat with our blood and sweat , gormandizing with the fruits procured by our slavery and sore labour ; set by your rum-pots , your punch-bowls , your brandy-bottles , and the rest of your intoxicating enchantments for a while , and stand still a little , and suffer the cool of the day to overshadow you , and the long obstructed fountain of reason in your hearts to send forth its streams , and then you will be able to tell us what heart or life , strength or courage any man can have that goes to his sleep late , with half his belly-full , and it may too what he did get , was but of little nourishment , and that unfirm , and then to be called out again as soon as 't is light , and work hard till a eleaven or twelve a clock , and to have neither mistrisses nor maids to provide you any breakfast , and at noon to have but one hours rest , and a poor sorry dinner , nothing but a few potato's or yams , and these without either butter or bread , and as soon as you have got a few of these into your belly , to be hurried again to work in the scorching heat , until it be dark : tell us , i intreat you , what liveliness or briskness would you have if you were under such circumstances , not for a day or two , but from week to week , and moneth to moneth , and year to year ? or would you be willing to be thus treated and dealt with , if you were in our condition ? no , no , i am certain you would count it hard , very hard measure , and complain loudly of cruelty and oppression ; and will you , can you be offended and angry with us for doing no more than what you cannot but acknowledge you would do your selves ? it may be you will say , that potato's , yams , and the like , are a brave nourishing food ; and indeed so they are , yet give me leave to tell you , that they afford but a weak unfirm fading nourishment , in comparison of many other things that are to be eaten alone , especially to people that have nothing else , and continually work hard : and for you that so cry up the excellency of these things , which of you all would be contented to live with such food only for one quarter of a year , and sometimes to want that too , as you know we often do ? i 'll warrant you would then think it miserable fare , and be ready to swear you should be starv'd , and yet you might much better support your selves therewith then we , ●ecause you live easie , or rather idle ●ives in comparison of us ; for you ●ie on beds , and as long as best plea●eth your selves , and scarce do an hours work in a moneth ; and if you got but to your next neighbours ●o smoke and drink , you must have in horse to carry you , and a slave to attend you ; and during all the hot time of the day , you take your rest , or keep out of the torrid beams of the sun ; and if you with all these advantages cannot live on bare yams and potatoes , how do you think we can go through with our continual hard labour , with no other provisions ? the truth is , our slavery , hard vsage and burthens are greater than we can bear ; and yet if we complain , our remedy is like your going to doctors , when a man is sick , or wants his health , viz. worse than the disease ; how often are we compelled to carry heavy burthens five , six , seven , eight , nine or ten miles , viz. an hundred weight , or more , with one to follow as with a whip and a spur , until our very hearts ake , and our limbs fail to bear us , and when we come to our journeys end , there is no breakfast , no mornings-draughts , no refreshment provided for us , but only water , where we can find it , so that we are forced to pilfer sugar , malassus , poultrey , corn , or any thing of that kind , and sell it to buy a little sorry stinking rotten fish , or flesh , to give our herbs and roots an hogo or taste ; and then we have so many miles to travel back , and there no rest , but presently to work again till night , and when we have thus moil'd and toil d al● day long worse then horses , our accomodation is worse than theirs too , for we have no meat , no provinder provided 〈◊〉 but have our suppers not only to dress and cook , but to get , which oft times we hazard our lives to procure . for our masters and governours make strict ordinances , that it shall be lawful for any that take us a stealing hens , or any other fowls or provisions , not only to beat and whip us at their pleasure , but also to kill us , and yet at the same time some of these godly law-makers will force us , that is , put us upon an unavoidable necessity , to steal provisions from our neighbours , by not allowing us any thing near sufficient quantities of sustenance , to support and relieve the necessities of nature , or answer the continual expence and waste of spirits by such grievous labours as they compel us to undergo . and yet though they make such severe laws against us , it seems they themselves do not account stealing in it self any evil , for besides their daily practice of over-reaching one another in bargains , which is but a civil way of stealing , we remember that not very long since , six or seven of our country-men , who were slaves to a great man , were taken stealing of provisions from one of his neighbours ; he that took them did not use the rigour of the law , that is to kill them upon the place , but very neighbourly brings them to their master , and complains , who ordered the overseer to whip them soundly ; which being executed accordingly , the master commanded them to be brought before him , and there complemented them in this manner ; you rogues ! i beat and whip you not so much for stealing , as for that you suffered your selves to be caught . is not this rare christian equity , to beat us unmercifully for that which they themselves do but laugh at , and make a jest of ? does this savour of the true christian spirit ? nay , certainly , but of the depraved hellish nature . this more than savage cruelty and oppression , proceeds without any compassion to age or sex , for they have no regard to the weaknesses , diseases or infirmities of our women , nor of our dear and tender infants , they make our wives , during the time of their pregnancy , work equally with the rest , even until the very day of their delivery , or birth of their children , which we can scarce call their lying-in , for , alas ! they have no monethly nurses , nor groaning cheese , none of the comforts of ale , or wine , or caudles , or rich refreshing suppings , but must be content with a few dry potatoes , and a caudle made with stinking mackarel , or broths of unwholsom putrified flesh , and glad if they can get it ; for in truth they allow them little or nothing more than at other times , and but two or three dayes rest ; and then they must out again into the field with their young and tender babes , and leave them sprauling on the ground , which is their only nurse and cradle ; nor can they expect any rocking , unless god to punish our masters inhumanity , should send an earthquake ; nay , when they cry for want of the presence and tendence of their mothers , and for lack of sustenance , our rough and churlish overseers will hardly allow time to give them suck . if our women be disordered by the natural infirmities attending their sex , or by the frowardness and crying of their children , which have broken their and our short hours of sleep ; no body comes and asks , forsooth ! how have you rested to night ? nor cries , pray keep no noise , she has not slept well to night ; no , no , let the case be how it will , as soon as the gray-ey'd morning draws the curtains of the day , and the light begins to peep from behind the mountains of the east , the blustering overseer blows his horn , or sheal , and then presently all excuses set apart , we and our wives must turn out with our tender children , whether we or they be well or sick , disposed or indisposed , it matters not , to work we must go , under the whip and the spur , and the sun's scorching beams all the day long , and none comes and desires them to eat a bit and drink before they go out , to prevent the wind ; but on the contrary , if our wives never so truly plead their inability to labour thus , they find no ears open to hear them with pity , but severe hands and lusty whips ready to lay on cruel stripes upon their tender and fainting backs , and so they are forced to carry their children with them into the work-field , and suckle them there , when they can get an opportunity all day , and so lug them home again at night , and have no refreshing drinks , nor proper foods to supply them with dry or moist nourishment . these things , though our hard hearted masters regard not , yet methinks , our mistrisses , if not out of christianity or good nature , yet out of respect to woman-hood , and their own sex , and by a compassion raised from their own experience of the diffiulties of child-bearing , might be induced to prevail with their husbands to be more tender in such cases , but so far are even these counted of the softer sex , from any such ●ommiseration , that where they alone have the sole command , as when they are left widdows , or the like , many of them are more fierce , dogged , pinching , oppressing and severe than the men themselves . but we are not only with unreasonable beating , made to labour beyond our strength and abilities of nature , but many of our masters will not allow us food that 's sufficient , either in quantity or quality , to support and maintain health , strength and vigour ; so that being pined with want as well as worn out with excessive drudgery , we oft times perish , or at least become poor , lean , feeble , and hardly able to go . for as when they do allow us ground to plant for our nourishment , the same is so little , as not to be half sufficient for that purpose , and so much the worse , because they afford us no time to till and improve it ; so when they pretend to buy us any food , more than our plantation-provisions , viz. either fish or flesh , they will go to all the merchants in the town , and diligently inquire out , and buy the worst they can lay their hands on , viz. stinking decayed flesh and rotten fish , and cry , it is good enough for negro's , they care not how bad it is , so they can buy it cheap ; some of them indeed are so free that they will allow us one salt mackarel or two a week , but others will afford us none , which lays us under a necessity either to starve or steal ; for we are reduced to such extremity , that if a horse dye , and is buried several dayes , if some of our people come to know it , they will dig up the putrified stinking carrion , and make good chear of it ; others will eat all the cats , dogs , rats and mice they can lay their hands on ; so that through necessity , and the depravedness of our minds , with evil customs , we are immers'd into all the beastiality and uncleanness , which the christians have never endeavoured to regulate , or prevent , but rather the contrary . by these , and variety of other the like miseries and oppressions , many of us have been brought to dispair , and chuse a miserable sinful death , rather than such a wretched life , whence some have hang'd , others drown'd themselves , some cut their own throats , and procured to themselves the like violent deaths ; but our blood is of no value in the sight of our masters , which yet we doubt not but will cry unto thee . o thou most just creator and governour of men ! for revenge upon those that have been the prime occasions of all these evils . for these hard usages and cruelties do terribly awaken the central wrath and sleeping poysons of the original nature , by which means and provocations we become sullen , dogged , malicious , envious , angry and revengeful , all which devilish dispositions are occasioned , or much increased in us by the harsh tyranny of our masters ; hence many times we neglect our labour , run away , spoil our business , & in the anguish of our souls continually curse our masters and their posterity ; and thence on the other side , our masters take occasion to redouble their cruel usages towards us , and be-labour themselves to beat and whip us , and hang us up by the hands , feet , and the like , and so bastinado us till our bodies become like a piece of raw flesh , and we are just ready to give up the ghost : for though we are , o great creator ! the work of thy hands , and were made in thine image , and endued with rational and immortal souls , yet we are nothing more in many of our masters esteem , than their money , and if some of them could find out a way to torment and plague us ten fold more , they would do it , provided we might still be but able to perform our drudgery , to maintain them in superfluity and gluttony . for our precious lives are reckoned no more than those of so many dogs , though they cannot gratifie their pallates and paunches , nor maintain themselves in their luxuries , and sinful vanities , but meerly by our labours , yet on any irregular passion or devilish humor , some of them will sacrifice our lives to their fury , and neither count it murther , nor any sin , neither did we ever hear that their law in such cases made inquisition for blood , or punished those that committed such murders , otherwise than by a fine , or ordering them to pay so much sugar for the business ; as if there were any equality , proportion or adequateness between such a crying crime , and such a triffling punishment . do not your plantations which have drank up our innocent and unrevenged blood , cry unto the lord , the righteous judge of heaven and earth , for justice and retaliation ? for divers of our country-men have been butcher'd this way , and little more notice taken of it than if we were fleas or gnats , or wolves or bears . nay , some of us have been burnt for running away ( and yet we were therein justified by the law of nature , for who would not escape , if he could , out of slavery ? ) and this too , although their mistrisses and masters might have sold them , to be transported elsewhere ; but their envy , passion and revenge was so great , that they prefer'd it before their gain ; one widdow woman above all the rest , ( as we have heard ) burned her negro for running away , and saying , that , where-ever he met her , he would kill her : so when she caught him , she was judge , jury , executioner , and all , though at the same time she might have sold him to be transported to mevis . here was ( as doubtless 't is true ) revenge in the highest degree ! if she had only threatned him , as he threatned her , she had been even with him , but nothing would satisfie her malice but to roast him . o thou most just and eternal lawgiver , and perswader of all creatures ! do these things taste or favour of christianity ? have they any such examples left them by thy primitive servants ? or did thy eternal son , the saviour of the world , preach any such doctrine , or set any such example in his meek and holy pilgrimage on earth ? if not , by what authority , or by what dispensation against his divine law do you practise these things ? is it not from the power of the serpent and the dragon , viz. the devilish fierce wrathful hellish nature ? undoubtedly if they repent not of these their cruel crimes , though they call themselves christians never so much ; the christ of god will say unto them , depart from me , i know you not , ye bloody workers of iniquity . by what right , or on what pretensions is it , o you nominal christians ! that you take upon you to make us your slaves , to over-labour , half starve , beat , abuse and kill us at your pleasure ? is it because we are not of your religion and belief ? hath god any where given a commission to those that profess christianity , that they may , when they list , fall upon any persons , whom they call heathens , and dispossess them of their lands , or lead them away captive , and make merchandize of them , and use them in all respects as beasts , or rather much worse ? this was not sure the way by which paul and peter , and the other good men of old , ( whom we often hear you speak of and practise ) did convert our heathen ancestors to your faith : we have heard some of our christian masters say , that christ , ( whom you pretend to follow as your prophet , lord and king ) is son of the eternal and most merciful god , his right-hand , and his eternal love , in which he reconciles himself unto mankind , even all those that shall live in this love-principle , from which proceeds nothing , either of wrath , anger , violence , malice or oppression , but altogether the contrary , as patience , courtesie , good-will , compassion , charity , and the like , to all the world : this , if we mistake not , is the true christian doctrine , which most of you do acknowledge in words . but how does this consist or agree with the violence , injustice and oppressions which you exercise upon us ? or is your religion one thing in profession , and another in practise ? this we are sure of , though , your tongues may be christian , your hands are heathen ; nay , most times your very language is contrary to your before-mentioned pretensions , for how else comes it to pass that you rant , and rave , and swear , and curse , and call devilish names so fast upon the least thing , wherein we displease your humors . but perhaps you will say , that not by virtue of your religion , but by some super-excellent or higher dignity of nature above us , you claim a right to make us your slaves and vassals . but pray , have you this prerogative from your descent or pedigree ? or from some different fabrick of your bodies ? or from your extraordinary endowments of mind ? as for the first , do not the oracles of your religion oblige you to believe , that the great god created the man whom you call adam , and that from him came all the people that ever since were , or are in the world ? and if so , are we not of as good parentage , as ancient a family , as noble a descent as the best of you ? ought you not then to love us as your brethren , descended from the same common father ? or at least respect us as your kinsmen , and of the same lineage . are not our bodies of as proportionable a frame , and as well furnisht with useful limbs ? are not all our senses as good and quick as yours ? nay , are we not naturally obnoxious to fewer diseases than you , though now indeed by your harsh usage our days are often shortned , and our health impaired ; but this is not the fault of our constitutions , but of your severities , which bring upon us those weaknesses and disorders , which we were never before acquainted with ▪ for any exercises of running , leaping , swimming , and the like , which of you can equal us ? as for the blackness of our skins , we find no reason to be ashamed of it , 't is the livery which our great lord and maker hath thought fit we should wear ; do not you amongst furs , prize pure sables as much as ermins ? is iett or ebony despised for its colour ? can we help it , if the sun by too close and fervent kisses , and the nature of the climate and soil where we were born , hath tinctur'd us with a dark complexion ? have not you variety of complexions amongst your selves ; some very white and fair , others brown , many swarthy , and several cole-black ? and would it be reasonable that each sort of these should quarrel with the other , and a man be made a slave forever , meerly because his beard is red , or his eye-brows black ? in a word , if our hue be the only difference , since white is as contrary to black , as black is to white , there is as much reason that you should be our slaves , as we yours . lastly , as to our souls , you dare not deny but they are immortal as well as yours , consequently capable of as much bliss and happiness , being as well as yours , created in the image of god , and of an heavenly original : have we not the same faculties , understanding , memory and will ? are we not endued with a reflex power , whereby to condemn or approve our own actions as they are either good or evil ? are we not , if we had the advantages of education , altogether as docible , and apt to learn arts and sciences as any of you ? witness averves , avicenna , and others of our country-men ▪ who were famous physitians , philosophers , astrologians , and the like . for in us as well as you , are contained the true natures of all elements , the seeds of all sciences , and an hidden epitom of the four worlds , intellectual , rational , elemental and sensitive . 't is true , we are not so ready at words , nor so nimble to express our conceptions , but we can more than guess at what is just , and fit , and honest , and seemly , and know what is agreeable to the dignity of humane nature , and what not , though the christians despise us by the name of heathens ; we must acknowledge that we are not so well acquainted with the wordy and notional matters of religion , nor do talk so much of it , nor keep so much ado about it , as many of the christians do , for we do not wrangle , nor fight , nor backbite or hate one another for , or touching the worship of god : nor do we kill , burn or imprison any for not agreeing with us , or being of our intellectual complexions , because god in his wisdom has made all things to differ ; many there are whose eyes are open see into the truth of these things . as for our faith , touching god and eternity , we have not much to say , neither do we ever use many words ; for we have only one book , viz. our selves , in which is contained the true nature and property of all things , both internally and externally , and happy is he that can read but the christ-cross-row in his own book , it is more profitable to him than a multitude of books , cry'd up and admired by the world : and this we do know and acknowledge , that there is a good and an evil spirit or principle within us , one which prompts , and invites , and leads us to good , and the other drawing us to evil ; and by the light of the good principle , we distinguish between what is right , and the contrary ; and whensoever we do evil , we are convinced and reproved for it by this good genius , whereby we are sensible that lying , swearing , adultery , idleness , disobedience to our masters , burning of houses , murther , and the like , are sins against god ; and when at any time we commit any such things , we are accused and condemned for the same in our hearts , though our masters , nor any creature else know thereof . in short , the main differences between the christians and us , seem to be no more than these , that they are white , and we black , because they are born in one climate , and we in another ; they have learning , as reading , writing , speaking of various languages , and we have none of those ornamental advantages ; but they may please to remember that the more paint glass has upon it , the more it keeps out the light ; they are educated under certain rights and forms , and taught divers notions of religion , which we are not skill'd in : but the grand point of religion , to do as we would be done by , we understand as well as they , and are sure they practise it less than we . what then do they talk so much of the leaves , when we can see no fruits ? let us feel their christianity , and see it , as well as hear of it , and no doubt then we shall be more in love with it . these , i say , are the chief differences ; for as to the natural ●roperties of the body and soul , there is but very little , setting aside custom and education . for as i said before , as to the members of the body , and inward faculties , we are alike in all particulars ; neither is there any difference as to the soul and spirit , they are as much subject to passions , lusts , and irregular affections as we , as also to sicknesses , mortality , and all other misfortunes ; and as your prophet hath said , god ( whose wonderful works we both equally are ) is no respecter of persons , but every one t●at feareth his name , and worketh righteousness , ( according to the measure and gift he has endued every one with ) whether bond or free , jew or gentile , is accepted of him . and it is not the name that will justifie , but a living in the nature and power of well-doing , according as the creator has dispensed his gifts to each person : and let christians know this as a certain truth , that neither before , nor at the great day of reckoning , and when accounts must be given , good words , nor long formal prayers will stand them in stead , except they have lived in the nature , power and operation of the good spirit , which we pray , and wish they would do ; and that they would act what they talk , and then both they and we should find the benefit , to the praise and glory of god , and our own comfort : for this is without dispute , that since christians do know more of god and of the heavenly mysteries than we do , then there is the more required of them ; and how they discharge themselves in their practice we cannot see ; for surely they do very little or not at all live in , and under the christian spirit ; for that leads all that are guided by it , to love even their enemies , to take compassion , and do unto all as they would be done unto , and also endues it followers with the virtues of meekness , humility , self-denyal , temperance and purity , and to deny all ungodliness and worldly lusts. but instead of these dictates of thy most holy religion , o thou great preserver of men ! they enslave and oppress thy poor unworthy servants , and are drunk with our blood and sweat ; we rise early , and lie down late , and labour beyond our strength , whilst our luxurious masters stretch themselves on their soft beds and couches , they drink wine in overflowing bowls , and set their brains a-float without either rudder or compass , in an ocean of other strong and various drinks , even till they are drunk , and vomit up their shame and filthiness , whilst we are allow'd nothing but water , and now and then a little cowou : they feast themselves with the fattest lambs , and variety of rich costly foods , and live in all uncleanness and gluttony : they have their men-servants , and their maids , their coaches and horses to wait on them , whilst we groan under the over-grievous burthens , and excessive labour which they impose upon us : they wantonly consume the encrease and product of our heavy pains in riot and voluptousness , in superfluity , and all kind of extravagant vitiousness ; their chief study and philosophy being to gratifie their liqourish palates , and insatiate paunches , and to enslave us with many intollerable burthens ; so that their lamps are ready to be extinguished by their superfluity and excess of oyl , whilst they make frequent and solemn feasts , ( that is , offer sacrifices , and celebrate festivals to their idol belly-god-paunch , the divinity which they chiefly adore ) and invite our rich masters and dames , and there they sit eating and drinking , ( whether they have any appetites or no ) in a formal way , perhaps two or three hours , inticing each other to gormandize and guzzle down great quantities , and variety of rich food and strong cordial-drinks , not only beyond the necessities , but even the power of nature ; and yet not therewith content , when they have thus already exceeded all bounds of temperance , they yet proceed to gorge themselves with wine , various sorts of brave noble fruits , tarts , sweet-meats , and a thousand novelties brought from forreign regions of themselves , more than sufficient for a sober and temperate meal , not considering the injuries they thereby do both to their bodies and minds , nor regarding in the mean time , the starving condition of us their poor slaves , that would be glad of the crums that fall from their over-spread tables ; and yet 't is from our sore labour , and grievous sweat , and pinched bellies , that what they thus wickedly waste upon their pampered lusts , is extracted . alas ! how few of our christian masters , do ever consider or endeavour to put into practice either abstinence or sobriety , though their own prophets and apostles commend those virtues as the surest bulwarks and fortifications against temptations and viciousness , and such as render the body pleasant and healthful , fit to discharge all its functions , and prepares the mind to be the temple of the lord. but these are things too sublim for our gorbellied christians to consider of , when a number of them gather themselves together to the burial of a swine , which they will roast ( or burn ) it whole , and then bury it in their ungodly paunches , and make them swim in their foolish hogshead , accompanied with drunken healths , and roaring huzza's , where one or two of these epicurean swearing roaring christians will destroy in superfluity as much as an hundred of us poor vassals can get with our hand and sore labour . but why , o ye christians ! do you thus violate the commands of our creator , and withstand , and walk contrary to the pure innocent laws of nature , and by your intemperances and oppressions contemn the great law of love , and doing unto all their fellow creatures as they would be done unto : consider these things impartially , and count us no longer dogs , nor hide the pearl any longer in your ungodly earth , and be as studious and careful to look for it , and find it , as you have carelesly lost it , and you shall see and know the errors of your wayes ; and above all , know this , that every master must give an account of his stewardship to the grand master of heaven and earth , and that there must be retaliation made , either in this world , or the world to come . but alas ! what likelihood or hopes are there of our relief , ease , or refreshment from those oppressions and burthens under which we languish , when these we complain of are become so unnatural , that they deal as hardly and cruelly with their own seed , even the fruit of their own loins , as with us ? for do not our masters , to gratifie their raging lusts , sometimes take our women , and make them their concubines , viz. either our wives , or our daughters , which best pleaseth them , ( for adultery is accounted no greater a crime amongst many of them than fornication , & both of them but venial sins , tricks of youth , or modish gallantries ) upon whom they beget mungril children , that are neither white nor black , but between both , which therefore are called molatto's , and when these poor women in compliance with such their brutish heats , have conceived by them , and brought forth , yet the fathers , being without natural affection , though they are their own seed , do expose them , and make them perpetual slaves , both they and their posterity . now what can be more hellish cruelty , or greater baseness , then for men to afflict their own seed , to beget children in their drunkenness and paroxisms of lust , and then not to care what becomes of them ; nay , to make themselves authors of their miseries as well as of their beeing , and instead of providing for , and well educating them , to enslave and tyrannize over them , and leave them in that wretched condition to all generations : there cannot sure be a greater sin against gods pure law in nature ; do not the whole hosts of the four worlds condemn this ? and will not the very beasts of the earth rise in judgment against such vile hard hearted wretches , and nature disown and spue them out as abominable ? for as the cruelties and oppressions of our masters are our plagues at present , so they will certainly draw down judgments on themselves in time , if not prevented by repentance and reformation ; for their violence awakens the center of dark wrath , both in the internal and external nature , and by a secret and sympathetical power these awakened poysonous properties do strongly excite the malignant influences of the coelestials , and attract their male configurations ; for every particular quality in nature has a key in it self to open the gate of its own principle , whence proceed many calamities , according to the degree of the sin or evil committed , there being a certain secret ( by powerful sympathy ) between the coelestial and terrestrial bodies , by and through whose evil influences mutually working on each other , plagues and vengeance , and calamities are engendred ; as on the other side , by their benigne influences sweetly clasping and embracing each other in harmony , peace and plenty , health and security do proceed . for this cause it is in point of self-interest , a thing of dangerous consequence for our christian masters to be so severe towards us ; for the groaning of him that suffereth pain and torment , is the beginning of trouble and misery to him that is the cause thereof . and it would be well for them , and happy for us poor vassals , if our masters would but be so sober as to consider , and be sensible of this truth , that their fierce wrath , violence , and oppressions to us , do clearly demonstrate that the poysonous wrath is awakened , & does predominate in them , so that let them call themselves by what name or title they please , his servants they are whom they obey ; the dark fierce spirit has overcome the good genius in their soul , and all the pure virtues , as temperance , compassion , fellow-feeling , courtesie , humanity , iustice , and charity , are clapt under hatches , just as we were when we were brought captive out of guinnea , into the land of bondage . and then this irritated wrath , or poysonous spirit , does powerfully penetrate all elements and bodies , and where-ever it finds matter capable or disposed to receive its malignant rayes they incorporate : for the all , wise creator has endued every thing in all the four worlds with an attractive and influential virtue ; and therefore the sons of men by their vncleanness , violence and oppressions do first awaken and stir up the wrathful spirit in themselves , which kindles the wrath in the coelestial bodies , and attracts their ill influences ; and if whole nations or countries live in the irritated wrath , then there are showered down epidemical diseases , as pestilence , war , famine , and the like , all according to the nature of the evils committed , or properties of nature that were awakned . the same is to be understood when any particular person or family has awakned the poysonous wrath , it doth powerfully attract the male influences , whence sickness , waste of estate , and many other great troubles & miseries , both to the body and mind follow ; the truth of this daily experience doth testifie ; how many of our great masters have by their vitiousness , vncleanness , intemperance , violence and oppressions both to man and beast , whom they have had the government over , fallen into great disorders , distempers , losses , crosses , troubles and vexations , so that their children that were kept so fine and choice , that they would hardly suffer the air to blow on them or their legs to carry them whilst they lived in prosperity , are many of them come to nothing ? some forced to work hard for their bread , others have taken worse courses , and have been immaturely cut off . 't is true , the evils both private and publick are sometimes more tollerable , also the good life and prayers of some sober people that live in a town or country , do interpose , and in some degree withstand or mittigate the poysonous kindled wrath , so that the judgment is sometimes deferred , and with-holden , as for two or three ages , according to the degrees of the awakned evils , and the intermingled virtues . therefore since we have obtained the favour to plead our own cause , we will be bold to tell our masters , that these things cannot be otherwise , it being the eternal law of god in nature , that whatever evil , violence or oppression is committed , either by superior or inferior , if not repented of , there must be a time of retaliation either in this world , or that to come , according to the nature of the evil ; for as there is such an affinity between man and man , that they can move each other either to love or hate , so there is a proportionate similitude between him and the coelestial bodies and elements , man being not only the image and likeness of god and nature , but the horizon of both worlds , in whom the superior and inferior natures are conjoyned , and have their intercourse ; for he is the off-spring of the stars , as well as the sun of the earth . therefore let us praise and magnifie the lord , creator of this wonderful nature , which is surpassing humane understanding and number ; for there is no religion or form of worship in the world so noble and well-pleasing to him , as for mankind to imitate him by living in , and under the power of the eternal principle of his light and love , which will lead all that hearken to the voice of wisdom into all innocency and well-doing , and thereby as naturally attract or draw down the sweet and pleasant virtues out of all things , as the loadstone doth iron . but on the contrary , our masters have built their babel , and fortified themselve ; with the poysons of saturn , and fierceness of mars , and made gluttony their trade , and violence their study , whence proceed all our miseries and oppressions , which at long-run recoyl back upon themselves with interest , destroying all their peace of mind , health of body , and outward estates . for are not most of those that thus violate our creator's law in nature , miserably afflicted with many cruel diseases , as the stone , collick , windy distempers , palsies , cramp , leprosies , kings-evils , gout , dry belly-aches , dropsies , consumptions , and an hundred other evils of this nature , which they also intail on their prosterity ; so also are they plauged with vexations and discords between man and wife , and with disobedient and rebellious children ; rot and murrain amongst their cattel , their crops blasted or spoiled by unseasonable weather , losses and disappointments in their trading , even to the consumption of their estates ; all which are the iudgments of god , and just rewards that follow oppression ▪ violence and cruelty , and of spending the blood and sweat of their poor slaves in superfluous wantonness ; for they make nothing to squander away talents in courtly vanities , and value not money in the way of gluttony , then it shall go by whole sale : but if a poor slave breaks but a glass ▪ or miscarries in any little inconsiderable thing , then presently the livid poyson of saturn is raised , and the flaming thunder-bolts of mars are let fly in the greatest fury and fierceness imaginable , and the best word that comes out of their mouth , is , dog , devil , damn'd dog , bitch , and the like hellish expressions , not to mention their horrid oathes , curses and execrations , which lewd words are followed by inhumane blows ; for they fall upon us with whip and spur till the blood come , and we are almost killed with their cruelty . and though they boast , and speak excellent things of the christian-religion , and contemn us for being ignorant of it ; yet 't is plain they never design that we should know and embrace it ; for why else do they make it loathsom in our eyes , by acting so contrary to its genuine nature and principles ? why do they dress up that which is the greatest beauty , and the most amiable thing in the world , in the shape of a frightful deformed hag , or terrible fury , that seems good for nothing but to bite and scratch , and prog for its paunch , and wallow in uncleanness like a swine ? were they in earnest , or desirous to make us christians , and save our immortal souls , they would remove out of our way all stumbling-blocks of scandal , & draw us with the cords of love and meekness ; they would set us examples by their blameless lives , and holy conversations , they would be at pains and charge to teach us the foundation principles of christian religion , and to read the bible , and would in those , and other exercises of virtue and piety bring up our little ones : but so far are they from any of this , that they act the direct contrary , and desire and endeavour to keep us heathens , that we may continue their slaves , and thereby are guilty not only of oppressing our bodies , but ( as much as in them lies ) of damning our souls . but our god is more merciful , and expects a return but proportionable to the talent he hath intrusted ; his ways are the paths of love , and all his out-goings are compassion ; he hath not left us without a guide , even a light shining in a dark place , to the conduct whereof , if we give heed , we shall do well . nor do we in this complaint intend to tax all our christian masters , for we must acknowledge that there are some few of them more just and merciful unto us ; for though under them we labour hard , yet we have our food in some order , both as to quantity and quality , and have tolerable rest , which gives us life and vigour in our occasions ; neither do they lay upon us burthens greater than we can bear ; besides , they often speak kindly to us , which chears and comforts our hearts and spirits ; they call us no evil names , which is well liking unto us ; they allow us the usual time each day to rest in , and eat our food ; they treat our women more kindly , and allow them better accomodations , when they bring forth their young ones : and though sometimes some of this better sort , will command our young women to be their concubines , yet then in such cases , if they prove with-child , they will have some regard to their own seed , and respect to the women : and it is also observable , that all such as deal any thing gently , and with moderation and compassion towards us , are generally blessed with the dew of heaven , and with considerable profits , and their men and women servants , and cattel , do stand to health , and thrive ; for by well-doing , though it be but as it were by halfs , they attract some of the sweet influences , both of the superior and inferior worlds , and go not without a reward ; which might teach all our masters to imitate that course , and use pity , good-will and equity in their dealings with us , whereby they would not only preserve a good conscience void of offence , which is the greatest and most durable riches on this side the grave , but also might increase their outward wealth , by saving them in their purses one , two , three or four hundred pounds per year , in the buying of slaves . for the tyranny , ill usage and improvidence of the generality may further appear by the great numbers of our country-men and women that are brought every year to america , and the isles thereabouts , which shews the vast consumption or destruction that is made of us in those parts ; we shall only give one example ; in the small island of barbadoes there are supposed to be commonly resident , forty or fifty thousand of our country-people , that are slaves ; and though we have our custom of plurality of wives , and are naturally as fruitful as most nations , yet our off-spring will not maintain the number , but they are forced yearly to bring in by shipping , several thousands more of our country-men , as fresh supplies , and to maintain the old stock or number ; so that it looks like the fields of mars , where often recruits are required to supply the place of the slaughtered soldiers . now would not any rational man conclude , that if one thousand men and one thousand women , ( most of them young , and capable of generation ) lived in a seperated place or isle , where they want for no conveniencies , for a matter of ten or twenty years , who , ( i say ) could but in reason expect these two thousand to be multiplyed at least to four thousand , or more , and that they would encrease so fast as to grow rather superfluous and super-numerary , than that there should be any occasion to purchase more at dear rates , from remote regions : for thus it usually happens in other parts of the world , as england , ( which is the country of many of our christian masters ) does not it spare every year great numbers of men , which of late years have settled several colonies , and peopled divers countries and islands in america , which are like to become very numerous , and yet still their own country rather over-stockt , than wanting of men to carry on their affairs ; besides , there come thence great numbers of young men , as factors , sea-men , soldiers , and others that daily are transported by troops , many of whom never return again : and how many thousands of women might england spare yearly ? of whom many that are fit and capable of generation , are never married ; and others , through want of good husbands in time , or to please their parents humours , or for base lucre , marry old , and have no issue , and yet still england wants no people , but ( as we have heard ) is able to spare two or three hundred thousand on a good occasion ; and why might not we in america encrease and multiply proportionably , were it not for those violent oppressions , and harsh usages , which our masters afflict us with , whereby we are destroyed before our time ? and is it not a strange , & an unheard of thing , that a fourth or fifth part every year should dye , and be made away with , more than there are born ? or can there be a more undeniable evidence of the cruelty exercised upon us , occasioning this extraordinary mortality , and the immature deaths of such great numbers of us yearly ? and though nothing can be more against our masters interests , since their chief wealth consists in their servants , yet the devilish wrath has such power over them , that they will not forbear their oppressions , though to their own detriment , as well as our destruction . therefore despairing of relief from them , to thee , o thou most merciful creator ! we address our complaints ; it is thou alone who canst put a period to our miseries ! let our cries come unto thee , for we are the works of thine hands , though now become slaves to unreasonable men : molify our masters obdurate hearts , and endue them with true vnderstanding and christianity indeed , as well as name , and then shall we and our posterity have ease from these intollerable burthens , & with enlarged hearts , and loud songs of ioy in our mouthes , celebrate thy praise , who art both our creator and redeemer . amen! amen! a discourse in way of dialogue , between an ethiopean or negro-slave and a christian , that was his master in america . the third part. master . come hither , sambo ! you look as gravely to day as a dog out-law'd , or a iustice of peace set in the stocks ; i doubt you have been doing some rogury ; i call'd you to make us some sport , let us see one of your dances , such as are used in your own country , with all your odd postures and tricks , for diversion ; i have heard you are the best at it of all my people . slave . boon master ! if you will have me dance upon mine head , or caper on the top of the house , i must do it , though i break my neck ; for you are become lord both of my feet , and every part of me , but i fear i shall not be able at present to answer your expectation handsomly , i am so much out of humour , and unfit for feats of activity . master . why ? what 's the matter sirrah ! i 'll warrant , you have been frollicking so long amongst your companions , that now you 'l pretend your are weary . slave . truly , sir ! this being the only day in the week you spare us from hard labour , and allow us for recreation , we do a sundayes amongst our selves , endeavour to forget our slavery , and skip about , as if our heels were our own , so long sometimes , till our limbs are almost as weary with that , as with working ; but that is not my present case , for i have been walking all alone several hours upon the shoar , viewing that prodigious heap of waters , that with roaring waves continually beat upon this little island , and sometimes casting up my eyes to that glorious eye of heaven , which ( they say ) at one view beholds half the world , i could not satisfie my self which was the greatest wonder ; so that the contemplation of them both together , has fill'd my brains with abundance of strange conceits , and made me very dull and melancholly . master . and what , i pray , might be the result of our wise worships speculations ? slave . i had a thousand different notions offered themselves to my mind , and amongst the rest , i was thinking , what if the sun should forget to rise to morrow morning , whether your man , ( our over-seer ) would make him get up , as he does us , by blowing his horn ? or else how we should do to work in the dark ? or if the sea should swell a little higher , and wash the tops of your sugar-canes , i might not then lawfully swim home to my own country , without being beaten to a jelly for a run-away ? master . out you rogue ! are these your contemplations ? nothing but studying mischief to your master ? your bones shall presently pay for the busie idleness of your brains , and the sauciness of your tongue . slave . o boon master ! i beseech you be not angry , i meant no harm in the world : this is a day on which you do not work , & therefore i hope you will not fight , which i conceive is ten times worse ; for i had rather work all the sunday , then be beaten once : if you will be pleased to lay by your huge cudgel , and vouchsafe to answer me a few harmless questions , i doubt not but i shall divert you as much to your satisfaction , as if i had danc'd two hours . mast. though you are an impudent , yet since you seem to be an ingenious raskal , i am content ( for once ) to hear your prate : what is your wise question ? sl. i desire first you would lay that frightful cudgel a little further off , and then begging pardon for the presumption , since this is the day you observe to serve god in , i would crave leave to be a little instructed touching that service , and wherein it consists . mast. why ? it consists in being christians , as we are — but what should i talk to such a dark ignorant heathen , scarce capable of common sense , much less able to understand things of such an high and mysterious nature . sl. i confess we are poor silly dark ignorant creatures , and for ought i find , so are many of the bacchararo's * too , as well as we ; but that you may not grudge your time or pains , i will assure you , that i will attend very seriously to what you say , and possibly may prove somewhat more docible than some of our complexion ; for i was the son of a phitisheer , that is , a kind of priest in our country and way ; he was also a sophy , and had studied the nature of things , and was well skill'd in physick and natural magick , i have heard him often discourse of a great and mighty beeing , ( greater far , and brighter too than either moon or sun ) which framed both land and sea , and all the glittering glories of the skie ; and he was wont to say , men were the children of the great king , who if they were good , would take them up ( but i think it was after they were dead here ) into spangled regions , where they should do no work , nor endure any pain , nor fight one with another , but remain in ioy and peace , and happiness : 't is so long ago , that i was taken from him and sold hither , that i have forgot much of his talk , and yet i remember some of his skill , whereby i have cured several of my country-men since i came hither , of diseases , that your doctors could not help , either so surely or so suddainly . mast. i have heard something of your suecess that way , and since thou art the son of an heathen-philosopher , and pretendest to more wit than the rest of thy fellow-brutes , what is it thou wouldst be at ? sl. sir ! i desire to be informed , what a christian is , or ought to be . mast. though i think it will be to as little purpose , as to go about to wash thy skin white , to inform such dark stupid heathens as you are ; nevertheless i shall endeavour to gratifie your curiosity . 1 st ; he that is a christian , ought to believe that god made the world , and all things therein . sl. o then , master ! i am a christian , for i believe that as well as you . mast. hold your tongue , there go many other things to make a christian besides that ; for he must also know and believe , that man being thus made , did by transgressing the law of his maker , fall from that good and perfect state , wherein he was made , into a sinful estate , and thereby was liable to the wrath of god , and so to be damn'd forever , or suffer everlasting punishment . but god out of the unspeakable riches of his grace and goodness to his creatures , thus become miserable , determined in his own secret counsel , and in fulness of time did actually send down his most beloved and eternal son , iesus christ , to take upon him mans nature , who after a most unspotted exemplary life , and laborious preaching the good tidings of remission of sins to all that should believe in him , and enduring many persecutions and affronts here on earth , was at last put to death without the gates of ierusalem , by the cruel hands of the iews , and being buried , rose again to life the third day , and ascended into heaven ; by which death of his , he satisfied the wrath of god for the sins of the whole world , as the scripture witnesseth . sl. if jesus christ dyed for the sins of the whole world , or satisfied god's wrath for the sins of all mankind , then we that you call heathens may justly challenge equal priviledge with your selves . mast. o no , you do not believe in his name , nor observe his commands and precepts . sl. as how i pray ? mast. you are not baptized in the name of the holy trinity , nor do believe the merits of christ's satisfaction , or that he hath taken away your sins . sl. this is a brave religion , that by the death and suffering of one , all men that in after generations believe this , shall have their sins pardon'd , and be blest with eternal happiness . mast. still , sambo ! you are too quick , there is more required then a bare faith , or verbal belief that such a thing was done , christ is our prophet to teach us , and our king to rule us , as well as our saviour to redeem us ; they must yield obedience , and do a christian's duty , that shall have an interest or benefit by his death . sl. i pay then tell me the duty of a christian. mast. the gospel of christ , or the doctrine which he taught , and we profess , instructs and requires us ; 1 st , to fear the lord that created all things . 2 dly ; to be merciful , and do unto all men , as we would be done unto . 3 dly ; to be sober and temperate in meats , drinks and exercises , mortifying the lusts of the flesh , and avoiding all kind of superfluity , that so we may not waste or abuse the good creatures of god. 4 thly ; to avoid evil communication , because it corrupts good manners , and vain words , but especially wicked ones . 5 thly ; to observe the rules of purity , and abstain from all appearance of evil , both in words and works . 6 thly ; to free our selves from envy , strife , malice , back-biting and slander ; not to accuse men behind their backs of what they will not speak to their faces , or cannot prove . 7 thly ; not to judge of things we understand not , lest we be judged ; nor condemn those things of which we have no certain knowledge or experience . 8 thly ; to be sensible that the lord by his all-seeing-eye and divine principle , beholds all our wayes , and that to him there is nothing hidden . 9 thly ; to believe and know for a certain truth , that the lord will retaliate and reward every one according to his works . 10. to live according to the gospel and divine principle , by denying all vngodliness and worldly lusts , and vncleanness , as whoredom , adultery , filthy speaking ; yea , even all unchaste desires , for so our lord teacheth us , that he that looketh on a woman , and lusteth after her , commits adultery . 11. to regulate our passions and affections , and to abandon all wrath , anger , malice , envy , vain or immoderate hopes , as also dispair , and all perturbations of mind ; to shun and avoid covetousness , ( that root of evil ) pride , ambition , and all vncharitableness ; and on the contrary , to walk humbly , and meekly towards god , and towards man , and to practise patience , mutual forbearance , moderation , kindness , and commiseration in all our wayes . 12. that we be not too confident , nor conceited of our selves , or our own knowledge , but to have regard to the lord in all our thoughts , imaginations and conclusions , and in every thing to have an eye to his providence . 13. to return god the praise and glory of all the good things we enjoy , as health , strength , food , rayment , knowledge , vnderstanding , and the like , acknowledging them all to be the free gifts of his bounty ; and when we are in any want , trouble , distress or danger to relie upon the same god for help , succour and relief , and with earnest , hearty and faithful prayers , to implore the same of him only . 14. to be merciful to all the inferior creatures , and to use them gently , and with moderation , avoiding all kind of oppressions , violence , hard heartedness or cruelty , either to men or beasts . these , sambo , are some of the principles or rules of the christian religion , the doctrine which it teacheth , and the practices it requires . negro . master christian ! i give you a thousand hearty thanks for this account of your religion & philosophy , which no doubt is the best and noblest of all others : therefore if these be your christian principles , i am already a disciple ; but i beseech you be in good earnest , and tell me the truth . mast. i do assure thee , they are the principles of our lord , christ , the son of the living god , that he preached to the world when he was on the earth , and which his apostles recommended , and left them on record in the bible ; and which he still continues to preach by his spirit in the hearts of all that are his . negr. since these things are so , i cannot but at once be surprized , and as it were amazed , with two different objects of wonder . mast. what are they , prethee ? negr. first , i admire the excellency of your doctrine , and the wonderful mystery contained therein ; it undoubtedly surpasseth all other religions in the world , as much as the sun's light doth that of a glow-worm : it seems to me to be an open gate into paradise , and a leaf of the tree of life ; so agreeable to the nature and glory of the great god , so suitable to the condition of weak man ; no wise person can make any scruple of the things you have delivered , they command assent ; for they proced from a true root . but then i cannot but also much wonder and admire that you christians live and walk so wide from , and contrary unto all those undeniable truths , and holy rules , so that what you preach with your tongues , you pull down with your hands , and your daily conversation gives the lye to your profession . mast. you now grow sawcy thus to upbraid us ; we have indeed our failings , but i hope we do not walk so retrograde as you talk of : what instances can you produce to maintain so general a charge ? negr. i intended not to upbraid you , but to satisfie my self , for perhaps you may have some reason that i do not know of , why you act contrary to what you teach ; nor do i say that all , and every christian does so , there may be hundreds and thousands that i am not acquainted with , and there are some that i know , of whom i cannot say , but that in a very great measure they live according to that righteous doctrine ; but for the generality or major part , i must say , that in all , and every of the aforesaid points by you mentioned , the whole tenour of their ways , and the continual practice of their lives , is directly contrary to the same : and since you command me to instance particulars , i shall endeavour it in some of the chief . 1. you say , that christian religion teacheth to fear the lord , that created heaven and earth : the truth of this we make no doubt of ; but how can we believe , that very many who go under the name of christians do obey this voice of wisdom , since they so lightly and vainly use the name of god in their triffling , and wicked talk , and boldly swear by it ( and that for the most part falsly too ) in their ordinary conversation , contrary to his express commands ; nay , not a few , will commonly challenge the great god to damn or confound them , with divers other blasphemies ; and do you call this fearing the lord ? 2. to be merciful , and do as you would be done by , you in the next place assign , as a grand and important point of christianity ; but where shall we find it ? we cannot perceive any thing of mercy to dwell in your hearts ; for you commit oppression with violence ; and that which you call trade or traffick ( as 't is manag'd amongst you ) is little better than an art of circumventing one another ; and you practise all sorts of cruelty , not only on the inferior creatures , but also on those of your own kind , else what makes us your slaves , and to be thus lorded and tyrannized over by you ? in a word , not only we , but the whole creation groans under your heavy burthens ; & yet you tell us of your mercy and good nature , and boast of your christian charity . 3. you acknowledge , this divine religion requires of you to be sober in meats and drinks , &c. and not to indulge nature with things superperfluous : but does it not appear by your conversation , that you never regard its counsel , since your wayes are directly opposite ? do not we see it a common practice amongst the christians , to drink to drunkenness , and eat to superfluity and gluttony ? & even of those that seem most reserved , scarce any , that have wherewithal , but will indulge themselves great variety of rich compounded foods , and cordial-drinks , that contain too great nourishment , beyond not only the necessities , but even the power of nature , and the digestive faculty of the stomach , which produces many evil effects ; for besides the waste of the good creatures , and a most vngrateful abuse of the creator's mercies , it heats the blood , makes it thick , hot and sharp , and causeth all the members to glow with an unnatural heat , makes both the body and mind uneasie , and disables each of them from performing its offices as it ought , and also sets open the gates of venus to many lewd practices : and thus in defiance to the laws of your religion , and to his own personal hurt , one great over-grown christian shall spend as much in one day , to gratifie his lusts or vanity , as an hundred or two of his poor slaves can get by their sore labour and sweat. and as for exercises , there is rarely here in this island any of the christians that will labour , except pure necessity constrain them to it , but you lay heavy burthens on us , and as your most illuminated prophet , saith , will not touch them your selves with one finger . so that you make it a genteel quality , and honourable , to break and violate that great command of the creator in the beginning , which i have heard is recorded by a most famous prophet of the iews , and whom you also receive , viz. that man should get his bread by the sweat of his brows ; which yet amongst the more noble christians , as you call your selves , is counted a poor , low , base and shameful thing . what heathen people ( as you call them ) are there in the whole world , that more pamper their carkasses , and indulge themselves like you , with things that are not needful , nor convenient ? do you not invent an hundred superfluities and needless toys , to gratifie your own , and your childrens pallates and sensuality ? the wind , forsooth ! must not blow upon them ; and as if the earth were not good enough to bear them , nor their legs made to carry them , you provide horses and coaches for them , or we poor slaves , must lugg them about , who are as well able to go as we . for your garments , houses , furniture , &c. who can exceed your pride , and vanity ? one of your women shall wear at once as much in value as would clothe an hundred poor people in modest rayment , each far better than hers , to defend them from the injuries of the elements , which is the chief end of cloathing : add to this , your great palaces , and sumptuous chargeable buildings , and all kind of rich superfluous ornaments , and knick-knacks in your houses , wherein you study to out-try and exceed each other , meerly for state , pride and vain glory , and to be honoured of men ; which extravagancy is attended with another sore evil , for that it cannot be maintained but chiefly by great oppression of men and beasts ; for those that spend talents daily , must lay about them for a continual supply , so that rather then they will be without those chargeable vanities , they care not how cruelly they use their servants , and inferior creatures ; they will scourge their slaves for a penny , and kill their beasts with over-labour , and at the same time spend pounds in base depraved wantonness , and feasting of the rich , &c. 4. you mention the avoidance of evil communications , as another duty of your religion , which we heathens do acknowledge , and therefore we have a proverb amongst us , when any use lewd discourse , to bid them , wash their mouthes with water ; but we have observed , that amongst the christians there is nothing more frequent than evil communications , whensoever any number meet together , are not your discourses vain , idle and frothy , and oft-times such as no modest ear can hear without tingling forth horror and indignation ? most of it tending to debauchery , or injuring the good name of persons absent , iesting , lying , vapouring , or speaking of things and people they understand not , nor have any thing to do withal ; nay , a man cannot pass the way or street , but his ears shall be grated with horrid swearing , and ungodly speeches , so that 't is evident you walk in the greatest opposition imaginable to his command . 5. you say , you are required to observe purity , and the natural rules of cleanness , and to avoid all appearance of evil : which indeed is no inconsiderable point in nature and religion , but as far as we have been able to observe , you practise the quite contrary ; for not only your words are very unclean for the generality , but also in your foods and drinks you make no distinction , but rich provoking food in excess , and all strong intoxicating drinks , you desire with greedness , which over-heats the whole body , and irritates the fierce wrathful beastial nature , whence all wanton , vain and unclean thoughts and imaginations are generated : also , you make as little distinction between clean and unclean beasts as we , nay , not so much as some of our country-men ; and you eat blood , though i have been told there is not any one thing more frequently , expresly and plainly forbidden in all your bible than that ; besides , you make no distinction of the times and seasons of the year , when beasts are subjects to surfeits , and other uncleannesses ; neither are your preparations and cooking of your food so clean , proper and natural , as they ought to be ; and instead of abstaining from all appearances of evil , we see you court and improve them on all occasions ; for do not you appoint set meetings , and make great feasts ? to which you invite the rich , that will invite you again , where you drink to drunkenness , and eat to gluttony , roaring all the while like mad bulls , and mixing your food with horrid oaths , and vain discourses , the fear of the great creator being banisht from your hearts , nor any pity shewn to us your poor vassals , that endure the heat of the day , and are ready to fall and faint under those heavy burthens laid upon us , and would rejoyce to partake of the crumbs that fall from your tables , which you will not afford , & yet spend our sweat , and the labours of our hands , in all kinds of wantonness and superfluity , by which many of you contract such grievous diseases , both to body and mind , that they become themselves more miserable then us their poor slaves . 6. you say that the next great point of christian doctrine , is to free your selves from envy , strife , malice , back-biting and slander ; which is also contradicted by your general practice ; for what is more frequent amongst you than envy and revenge ? and though in your prayers you formally use those words , lord forgive us our trespasses as we forgive them that trespass against us , yet at the same time envy lies lurking in your hearts , and the very next moment shall erect it self ; for do not many of you keep your neighbours and brethren in loathsom prisons for some very little offence , or in truth for none at all , but only to shew your power , and gratifie your devilish fury : and as for the gentleman called strife , he rides the fore-horse , and is quarter-master-general amongst you ; what fighting , swearing , damning , railing , &c. is there in every house between fathers and children , brothers and sisters , relations and neighbours , ready to destroy and murder one another , and all about things , not worth a wise mans thoughts ? what swarms of lawyers , clerks , pettifoggers and idle-men , does your strife , and unjust contention maintain ? and how many are yearly with their families utterly ruined thereby ? i 'll not leave him worth a groat , cries one : i 'll make dice of his bones , swears the other : let him not in goal , says a third . this is your christian charity , and remission of injuries . and for backbiting and slandering , even eating and drinking , is scarce more universally practised amongst you ; almost every man speaks evil or slighting of those that are not present , though to their faces he complements and flatters them . calumny is the sawce at your great feasts , and reproaches & scandalous stories the entertainments of your clubs and visits , so that scarce any honest man is free from the lashes of your invenom'd tongues , or from having large furrows plowed upon his back , his good name wounded , and his reputation unjustly blasted or called in question , by your false stories and malicious suggestions , whereby many are daily ruined , there being nothing more base and unmanly than these whispering doemons ; nor is there any practice that more opposes christianity , and the pure simple law of god in nature , and therefore is a sin to be condemned forever , and banisht the society of all good men . 7. not to judge and speak of things they understand not , is a very excellent precept , yet nothing is more common among many christians than to judge , censure , and condemn things and persons , though they understand them no more then a blind man can distinguish colours , or the deaf judge of musick ; but right or wrong without any true sight or comprehension , they will pass their verdict , and shoot their bolts , for they count their tongues their own , and think they may say what they list , and so call evil good , and good evil , and abuse their own consciences , and their neighbours , so greatly are many of the christians depraved . 8. the eighth point you mentioned , was , that the lord beholds all mens wayes and doings , and that unto him , and his divine eye there is not any thing hid : which without all doubt , is a most certain truth , which neither christian nor heathen dare to deny ; for as your own prophet saith , it is he that searcheth the heart , and tryeth the reigns . but how can we perswade our selves , that you do in truth and in earnest believe this , since we daily find that you stand more in awe of mens seeing , or knowing your wickedness , than of god's beholding , and revenging of it ; and therefore you love to seem , and be counted honest , and iust , and merciful , but scarce a soul of you seriously endeavours to be so ; 't is the name and the credit you look after , not the thing , which shews that you seek to please , and be well spoken of by men , but regard not the righteous judgment of god , who looks through the fig-leaves , and requires truth and purity in the inward parts : this hypocrisie of yours is notorious , and every one almost taxes his neighbour for it , and yet all generally practise it , and each huggs himself therein , as one of your own poets complaineth ; if my foul deeds of darkness may be wrapt in clouds as black as they ; if being ugly i can paint , and act the devil , yet seem a saint ▪ cheat and oppress , forswear and lye , yet scape the law and infamy , i mind no further honesty . 9. on the contrary , to believe and know ( as you say ) that the lord will retaliate every man according to his work , is a most true and necessary principle ; but if christians did so , surely they could not , nor would do as they do ; for what kind of rewards and returns do or can you expect for all your oppressions to us your poor vassals ? for do not you oppress us at your pleasure , beat , whip , over-labour , and half-starve us , and many of you scruple not to kill us for a small offence , and possibly for none at all , but in your drunkenness to satiate your fierce devilish passions ? nor do our tender children , and dear wives escape your violence . now if retaliation be one point of your christian doctrine , and every man shall be rewarded according to his works , then what a sad reckoning will you have to make , when god shall arise to visit for these things ? and you would not certainly adventure upon those things , which you must pay so dear for , either in this world , or that which is to come , if you were sufficiently sensible of the compensation that must be made for the same . 10. 't is a noble truth , that men should walk according to the divine principle , and forsake all vngodliness and worldly lusts : but the generality of christians take contrary measures for the gospel of truth , neither inwardly nor outwardly doth teach any to compel others by outward force to believe , and do as they do , be it right or wrong ; but advises all to do as they would be done by ; and to let their moderation be known unto all men ; and to bear with one another in love : whereas you impose upon one another , and tye up other men to your own conceptions , and without any compassion or charity ▪ fall upon such as will not go your way , and do as you do , though you have nothing to object against their lives and conversations . and whereas you acknowledge the doctrine of christianity , where-ever it is entertained in the love thereof , will bruise the head of the serpentine nature , that is , of lust and uncleanness , and all ungodliness , yet we see you daily wallowing in all those pollutions ; so that you do not only contradict this holy doctrine , which you boast so much of , but some of you do also severely persecute others for obeying the same and submitting to its guidance ; and as for brutish vncleanness , adulteries , whoredoms , &c. they are but your sports and pastimes , things that many of you glory in ; and to be chaste and modest , is to be an object of your scorn and derision . 11. how well you regulate your passions ( which is another thing you say christian doctrine teaches you ) all the world sees , and we often feel ; the sea when agitated with contrary winds , it throws up dirt and sand from the bottom of the deep , and spits its froth up towards towards heaven , is not more disorderly or dangerous to come near , than you are , when the least thing happens contrary to your minds , your souls are in a perpetual tumult , your lusts duel one another , covetousness fights with luxury , wantonness jostles ambition , and revenge is opposed by cowardize ; sence gets above reason , the man is ridden by the beast , and when in this hurry , conscience gets leave to be heard , then presently there is nothing but furies and dispair : is not all this as contrary to that calmness and stillness , that peace and serenity of mind ( which true christianity , both requires and gives , and is delighted in ) as light is to darkness ? 12. 't is as great point , and as true that men should not be too resolute , confident or conceited of their own wisdom or knowledge , but ought to have regard to the lord in all their thoughts , imaginations and conclusions , and to eye the divine hand of providence in all things , it being better to fear , than to boast . but tell us , o master ! who do violate this rule more than the generality of christians ? do not many of your learnd ones boast of their lights and knowledge , and count all others little better than brutes in comparison of themselves ? and does not every one fancy his own opinion to be the only truth , and condemn the sentiments of others , how well grounded soever they may be ? and do not many endeavour to spread their notions by violence , fighting and oppression , and by cruelty , to force all to be of their complexion in understanding ? which self-conceited proceedings are a true token and demonstration , that they love to contradict the whole course of god and nature ; for he hath made all things to differ , and by that difference the universe is sustained ; and from those various notes proceed the sweetest harmony ? is it not for want of this spirit of humility , that you wrangle , fight , contend , punish and imprison each other , for not thinking as others do , or because they have not all one coloured hair ? for alas ! men's minds and understandings are as different and various , as their complexions or visages ; wherefore then are you angry with your creator , because he hath not made you all alike ? if you were not blind and ignorant , and yet very presumptuous and self-admirers , this could never be amongst people that believe all in one prophet , and one god : i perceive therefore it is not about true virtue that you make all this ado in the world ; 't is for your own conceits , your own inventions , your own dreams , that you thus contend and disquiet your neighbours . 13. your thirteenth point of christianity was to return god the glory of all your enjoyments , and relie solely upon him in your distresses and this you observe no better than the rest ; to give god the glory of your health , strength , wealth , &c , is to use the same soberly and discreetly , and imploy them as he hath required ▪ for the benefit and advantage of our fellow creatures , and our own happiness both here and hereafter ; but you only swagger and vapour and domineer with them , as if your own right hand had made them , your own wisdom and power had procured them , and not as given , or rather lent you by the lord , for the good ends before mentioned ; whereas you use and bestow them only for pride and ostentation , for vanity or luxury , to accomodate your lusts , or gratifie your revenge ; this is sure very far from a true christian improvement of what you enjoy . lastly , whereas you say , your christian doctrine enjoyns you to be merciful to all the inferior creatures , and to use them with compassion , and avoid all kind of oppression and violence to those of your own kind : how contrary most christians act hereunto , our own woful experience has too sadly informed us , that there is little or no mercy or compassion dwells in your hearts ; for on every small occasion you will not only beat and oppress us , but some of you count it no more sin in their drunken fits to murther us , than to kill their horse , or their dog ; but let them know , we are humane rational souls , and as much the image of god as themselves , and want none of the noble faculties , therefore our innocent blood will equally call for vegeance , and as powerfully as if you had killed one of the pretended christians . the voice of god in nature is the same ; and it is not your custom of killing will make it the more lawful or excusable in that day , when accounts and retaliation must be made , every principle then apprehends and comprehends its own children ; those that have immers'd , or precipitated themselves through violence , into the fierce anger and wrathful principle , shall be therein captivated even to eternity : it is not good words , long prayers , and fair speeches , that will break or untye the wrathful net , which men all their lives have been tying ; but look what principle has carried the upper dominion in the heart , to that kingdom you belong . as for the inferior creatures , they groan under your cruelties , you hunt them for your pleasure , and over-work them for your covetousness , and kill them for your gluttony , and set them to fight one with another till they dye , and count it a sport and a pleasure to behold them worry one another ; whereas the same should be matter of grief to you , to see the gate of wrath thus opened amongst the creatures , and that you your selves have been the original cause thereof , by violating the law of your maker . thus , master christian ! have i briefly shewed , that in all the particulars by you mentioned , the generality of you christians do act the clean contrary ; what then do you boast of , and wherein are you better than we ? only that you pretend to understand more , and do less , and so deserve the greater condemnation . will you make us believe , that those men have any religion , who have no god ? or have they indeed a god , who prefer their lusts , or wealth , or honour , or any thing in the world before him , and his holy commands ; can we think that you know what it is to believe that there is a god , and a life to come , and to renounce the flesh , the world , and the devil , and give up your selves to a saviour , and a sanctifier , when we behold you persuing after vanity with out-stretched arms , and committing all kind of wickedness with greediness ? can you your selves think , whilst you are awake and sober , that perfideousness will avail you , and rebellion save you ? or that the god of wisdom , holiness and justice , will accept you for a perjured profession to be , and to do that which never came into your hearts ? is hypocrisie a virtue ? or will lying and dissembling bring a man to heaven ? christianity ( by that very description you have given of it ) is such a blieving in christ , to bring us unto god and everlasting glory , as maketh the love of god become the very nature of the soul , and thankful obedience its imployment , and an heavenly mind , and an humble , pure , harmless and holy life , to be its constitution , and constant trade ; and the interests of fleshly lusts , and the pomps and vanities , the riches and honours of the world to be truly esteemed but as dross and dung ; now tell us in good earnest , is this the life which you live , or which you hate ? why will you profess a religion you abhor ? or why will you abhor and despise a religion which you profess ? why will you glory in the part of a parrot , or an ape , to say over a few words , or move your bodies into such forms and ceremonies , whilst you detest the humane and divine part , to know , and love , and live to god ? do you profess your selves christians only for self-condemnation , to be witnesses against your selves in judgment , that you wilfully lived unchristian lives ? what is there in the world that you are so averse to , as to be seriously that which you profess to be ? that is , to walk uprightly and sincerely in all those fourteen particulars by you enumerated . whom do you hate more than those that are that in heart and life , which you call your selves in customary words ? or that are serious in the religion which you your selves say , you hope to be saved by . call us heathens as long as you will , i am confident christ hath not more bitter enemies in the world , than some of you that wear his livery ; we blacks are more gentle to you , than you christians are to one another ; and i have been assured , that all the heathens in the world have shed less christian blood , than what hypocrite christians themselves have greedily let out , or occasioned to be destroyed : thus you honour dead saints , and abhor the living , and would gladly make more martyrs , whilst you keep days in commemoration of those that others made . can any thing be more preposterously absurd , more foolishly wicked , than these interferring contradictions ? were it not better to be what you call your selves , or to call your selves what you are ? if you approve of these christian doctrines , why do not you square your conversations accordingly ? if you think them needless notions , why do not you disown them ? or why do you so much cry up and magnifie them ? be either christians indeed , or cease to upbraid us for being heathens ; for such shuffling hypocrisie is more abominable to god and man , than the most ignorant paganism . mast. i have given you , sambo , a large liberty of prating , and you have used it very confidently : how come you so wonderous wise ? how dare you upbraid us that have the light of the gospel ? or indeed why should we mind any thing such heathens as you can say or talk of ? negr. we boast not of wisdom ; what i have said , arises from plain matter of fact , which no person whom our creator hath endued with a rational soul , can be ignorant of , if he do not wilfully quench and extinguish in himself that light which enlightneth every man that cometh into the world , and which one of your own prophets calls , the candle of the lord. nor are we altogether such ignorant dark heathens ▪ as you call and suppose us ; for many of the christians do not esteem , nor look on us any otherwise , or better than dogs ; for tell me , i pray boon master ! what difference has our creator made between you and us ? hath he endued you with any particular quality or property more then we are furnisht with ? the members of our bodies , the faculties of our minds , our senses and all the furniture of nature , are equal , and the same in us as in you : we are not beasts , as you count , and use us , but rational souls , and in us is contained the true nature and properties of all elements , and created things ; nor do we contemn or flight the light of the gospel ; as you call it , but we wonder at you that so much talk of it , and so little practise the good rules of life contained therein . besides , since you are pleased to grant us the liberty to plead our own cause , we might tell you , that we have the same gospel that you so much talk of , written in our hearts , and doing by nature the things that are written in the law , being without the law , are a law unto our selves , as one of your illuminated prophets speaks : and if we do the things that are right in the sight of god , and walk in his innocencent law in nature , according to our measure and understanding , we have so far discharged our duty , and we doubt not but the goodness of our creator will accept thereof , and pardon our involuntary misprisions , and failings ; and if you have a larger manifestation of the eternal light and love of god , which we have no reason to doubt , then the more is required of you , and therefore the greater and more sore will your condemnation be . mast. and do you black heathenish negroes then dane compare your selves with us brave white christians ? does not your very hue , that sooty skin of yours , serve for an emblem of the darkness of your minds ? you eat all unclean foods , carrion and vermine without scruple ; you have no order nor decent ceremonies at your marriages ; you go naked , and have not wherewithal to cover your shame ; in a word , you are in most particulars the very next door to beasts , and therefore we have hardly so much care and esteem for you , as we have for our horses , or other cattel ; are you not altogether unlearned , and can neither spue latine , nor sputter greek , nor understand the hebrew rabbins , and the talmud ; your discourses are not trim'd with flowers of rhetorick , nor can you chop logick , nor make syllogisms , and run down both truth and sense with mood and figure , and the magick of a concluding ergo : what divines or clergy-men , what cunning lawyers have you to boast of ? though you pretend to do cures , yet you never read galen nor paracelsus , nor have any apothecaries to make a trade of the materia medica , nor chymists to tell you the medicinal vertues of minerals ; you have very few persons of honour amongst you ( except your kings ) and but a few misses , and no theaters or play-houses for the education of your youth ; your women are not so nobly arrayed , nor have those charming arts , to invite men to love and dote upon them , as ours daily study ; neither do you drink wine in bowls , nor understand the genteel mystery of quaffing of healths with an huzza ! or to swear modishly with a boon courage ! all these things we enjoy , and make sumptuous feasts , where we spend as much in a few hours , as two or three hundred of such wretches as you can earn in some dayes : we have all forts or war like weapons , and murthering engines to use at our pleasure : we eat and drink of the fattest foods , and richest liquors , and take our ease , and clothe us in costly attire , and study new fashions for our garments , to render us more honourable and admired , and many other great priviledges we have , which you are destitute of . negr. these , sir ! are brave things indeed to vapour with ! is it possible that rational men , much less such illuminated christians , as you account your selves , should thus be taken with things that are so much below the dignity of humane nature , to boast of your evils , and glory in your shame ? as for our complexion , 't is the livery of our creator , the property of the climate and soil , wherein his good providence disposed of us to be born and bred ; we made not our selves black , nor do you make your selves white ; wherein then have you any thing to brag of above us ? if for this cause you despise us ; you at the same time despise that adorable power , which is the maker both of us and you : and thought white be an emblem of innocence , yet there are whited walls filled within with filth and rottenness ; what is only outward , will stand you in no stead , it is the inward candor that our creator is well-pleased with , and not the outward ; have a care therefore that you be not found as black within , as we are externally . you upbraid us with eating unclean foods , carrion , vermine , & c.. but i pray , is it not your cruelty , in not affording us what is sufficient to support nature otherwise ; that makes us do it ? this is first to make us cripples , and then beat us with our crutches for being lame . as for our poor coverings , or going naked , as long as man remained in the innocent state , he wanted no garments ; and you are forced to rob several sorts of creatures to cover your shame ; nor do you bring into the world any greater ward robe with you , than we do ; nor have you occasion to carry out any more . but how depraved and dishonourable does it look , for that noble creature , [ man ] not only to be glad to borrow of his inferior creatures to hide his shame , but also to grow proud of those ornaments , which are but the spoils , or the labours , and many times the excrements of beasts and flies , or insects , and the like lower graduates ? as for order in marriages , we have as much as you ; for though plurality of wives is contrary to your custom , it is not to ours ; and he is no wise man that admires or contemns the various customs of different regions , any further than they contradict nature : now this custom of ours , as it is be friended with examples amongst the antient patriarchs , and the laws of many nations so renowned for civility , as to esteem all others barbarians , so it seems somewhat to agree with the law of nature , and to prevent out-rages against nature , it being not fit , nor natural for men to meddle with their wives when they are breeding , or great with-child : however , these any things are more of custom , than any thing else , and we our selves esteem that man most happy that contents himself with one wife : but you , although your customs and laws forbid poligamy , and adultery , yet whilst you comply somewhat in the former , do make nothing , many of you , to violate the latter , as often as you can meet with an opportunity . when you say , you hardly esteem of us so well as beasts ; we have reason to believe you , from your cruel usages , and not allowing us what is necessary for food and rest , which yet is to be wondred at , since if we are not worthy ( forsooth ! ) to be your brethren , we are however your money . so that — this cruelty towards us , doth savour more of envy , than of christianity or frugality . it is also true , that we have no lip-learned doctors , nor are confined to the old musty rules of aristole or galen , nor acquainted with the new fancies of your modern fire-working chymists , or vertuosi , nor will we compare our selves to you in those things ; but we have so much understanding , as not to content our selves to see with other mens eyes , and put out our own , as many of your learned rabbies do ; nor want we amongst us those that god and nature have endued with gifts of knowing the vertues of herbs , and that can by genuine skill , administer good medicines , and perform greater cures , than your famous doctors with their hard words and affected methods . neither will the art of chymistry advantage us ; for since god hath hid all sorts of meettals in the deep bowels of the earth , and on the contrary adorned its surface with so many noble and salutiferous herbs and plants , we conceive he intended the latter , not the former , both for the food and physick of man ; and also we observe , the most who have hazarded their healths and lives , to get them out of these subterranean caverns , have done much hurt by the use of them in the world yet in our own country we have in divers parts the best mettals near at hand , viz. gold , which too many of the christians make their god. our women , 't is true , have no other ornament than what is natural , which is more than abundance of yours have , for they want the great ornament of that sex , modesty ; for though ours go naked , yet they are not so impudent as your misses , who make a trade of lasciviousness and filthiness . we drink not wine in bowls , nor without ; and it would be much better and more becoming christianity , if you did not too ; for doth it not heat our blood , irritate the central heat , set the whole body into an unnatural flame , & precipitate the mind into fury and madness , and excite the senses to uncleanness and beastiality ? for pray , good master ! tell me , how many villanies of all sorts do some nominal christians commit against god , and his pure law in nature , by reason of their excesses in that kind ? and what grievous diseases do such debauches occasion both present , and for the future ? nay , to the further shame of christians , have you not by lewd examples defiled and debauched us ethiopeans , and the indians amongst whom you converse ? so that instead of learning us virture , and courting us to your faith and religion by sobriety and godliness , you set before us destructive presidents , and make us more the children of the devil than we were before ; which has forced many of your religion to make strict laws , that no christians shall suffer indians to drink strong intoxicating liquors , or sell the same unto them ; so that we must needs say in that respect , you have been kinder to us , than to your selves ; for seeing the great inconveniences and hurt the drinking thereof does do us , you endeavour to prevent the same , and yet you continue and encrease the evil practice thereof your selves , and so long as the christians thus trade in debauchery and superfluity ; there is no likelihood or hopes that they should draw any considerable number of us , or the neighbouring indians to embrace their religion , though undoubtedly it is the most excellent doctrine that ever was communciated to the world : but the vicious lives of its professors , their saying , and not doing , cuts off in the bud , and wholly destroys the growth and encrease of those sublim truths , and makes the world despise both the christians and their doctrine ; for it is not your good words , and long prayers , ( and indeed some are short enough ) that are pleasing to our creator , or edifying to us ; it must be your good works that shall convince any of the truth , and beget love and amity in all men . but instead thereof , you spend your time in riot , excess , vanity , or wicked plays , whereof evil daemons were the inventers , whilst we sigh and groan under your heavy burthens . but our cries are slighted by you , and your ladies too , who many of them will swagger , and curse , and rant , and equally oppress , and as much abuse us as your selves , which fierceness and cruelty looks more monstrous in them , though bad in both sexes , and where-ever practised , must of a certain truth be retaliated . i have heard some of our master christians talk of , and cry out against the tyranny of the turks , and the slavery they impose on what christians they can get into their cluches at algier ; is it not strange that you should practise the very same thing your selves , that you so much condemn in others ? nay , you do ten times worse than they , both because you profess your selves christians , which is a religion of love , sweetness and beneficience to all the creation ; and for that you use us worse than the turks do their servants ; and especially in this , that you rather hinder , than promote our embracing the christian faith , whereas amongst the turks any christian slave may turn mahumetan , and is encouraged thereunto , and thereby gains his liberty . mast. the world is come to a fine pass , that such ignorant slaves and heathens as you are , that do neither know nor worship the true god , should presume either to instruct , or condemn us . do not you know , that most of the hard usage you so much complain of ; is occasioned by your selves , for if we should not be severe , and rule you with a rod of iron , you are so stubborn and disobedient , that there would be no governing of you ; therefore we are forced to beat you into obedience and good manners , you are so morose , surly and inhumane ; so that you are the first cause of those miseries you endure : have not you made several attempts to rise , and cut off the christians root and branch , and make your selves masters of all that we have ? and do not such offences require a strict hand , and severe punishments ? what greater crime can there be , than for you to betray your masters ? negr. true it is , the world is come to that pass , and mens wickedness is arrived to that height , that good advertisements , and wholsom counsel , either of christian , iew or gentile , will not be entertained , let it come from whom it will , if it tend to vertue , be sure it shall be withstood with various pretences . whereas you accuse us of evil carriage , and that the same hath been the original of all our griefs and sore oppressions , there is a certain truth therein , tho' not as you intend it , for if we and our fore-fathers had not violated the innocent law of nature by violence and transgression , we had never fallen under your yoke , nor been carried away captives out of our own native country ; but now we have by the divine justice been retaliated , for ours , and our princes transgressions ; however , though we acknowledge this is but just from god , yet that doth not concern you , nor can you from thence justifie your oppressions , which could not be occasioned by the miscarriages you speak of , because they had long been practised upon us , before any of us made any of those ill attempts you mention ; 't was your cruelties put us upon those extravagant courses : and since oppression ( according to the doctrine of your most holy wise prophet ) makes wise men mad , 't was no wonder if some of our silly country-men were thereby so far transported , as to seek by unjustifiable means , to gain their liberty , or a melioration of their wretched condition . besides , if we had indeed offended you , yet you ought not to retaliate evil for evil , since on the contrary your christian doctrine enjoyns you to return good for evil , & to love even your enemies ; how dare you then in the light of this holy and everlasting gospel , to talk and act after this manner ? do you indeed dream that your cruelty , and ruling us with a martial rod , and barbarous fierceness , will make us tractable and friendly , or to love our masters , and do our labours with willingness ? alas ! we imagined you to be greater seers into the mysteries of god , and his law in nature , than to entertain such vain and impossible conceits ; for how contrary is this not only to your christian principles , but also to reason , and the common sense and experience of all mankind ? with the froward thou shalt learn frowardness , saith your own prophet . and again , did ever the wrath of man accomplish the righteousness of god ? or tyranny beget love ? if those who have the government of generous horses , or go about to tame wild beasts , and endeavour by gentle vsage to make them tractable , and fit for service , rather then by cruelty and beating ; much more those who have the command of men ▪ should bring them to order and discipline by the mildest and fairest means , and all the arts of sweetness and perswasion ; not treating them worse than gardiners do those wild plants , which by careful looking to , and good usage , lose the savageness of their nature , and in a little time come to bear excellent fruit. in vain therefore you go about to excuse your tyranny and oppression towards us , by making the world believe , that you are as it were constrained , or forced to be cruel to us ; though yet the same be true in one sense , viz. you are irritated there unto from you own innate awakened wrath , which does predominate in your hearts and souls , and then those fierce arrows of mars , and poysons of saturn , which you let fly at us , do by simily stir up the original venoms , and wrathful qualities in us : and this , and this only , is it that hath occasioned some of the worser sort of our country-men to curse you and your posterity , and to endeavour to kill and destroy you , which is a crying sin , which we neither justifie , nor can execute , since 't is condemned by god , and his law in nature ; and all that have attempted such savage mischiefs , ought not to go unpunisht , neither will they ; for the just law of retaliation will take hold them ; but will you therefore punish the innocent for , or with the guilty ? because some called christians commit murders and treasons , must all of that profession be cut off by the ax , or the gibbet ? if you will deal ingenuously , your own hearts will tell you , that the occasion of these evils committed , or endeavoured to have been committed , arise from your sins , and the great abuses wherewith you have from time to time afflicted us , viz. your murdering us at your pleasure , and no account or just compensation rendred for the same . therefore does our innocent blood call for vengeance on you , and ( without serious repentance and amendment ) must be reckoned for . consider well these things , and then tell us ; do you think , or can you in reason , but expect , that the great tyranny , injustice , and cruel usages you have practised upon us , will in due time be brought back upon you and your land or posterity , if you do not atone for these evils , and give us ease and refreshment ? and though we are never so submissive , can not the kindled wrath raise up other enemies to destroy you and yours in a moment ? therefore be intreated to bethink your selves in time , for undoubtedly the cup of wrath is almost full . mast. i have considered what you alledge , touching the severe usage , which we have and do daily offer to your country-men ; & i must confess , i cannot well seehow the same can be reconciled to the doctrine of our holy and harmly christian religion : but alas ! what would you have us do ? if we should leave off these practices , how should we live at the rate we do ? fill our tables daily with variety of costly dishes , and swill our selves and numerous visitants with rich wines , and other strong liquors : how should we maintain our grandure , and our pomp , and raise great estates for our selves and children , and leave our posterity great , and rich , and honourable in the world ? we consider nor your labour , weariness , disorders , sickness , hunger , drought , want of due rest , or convenient food , nor any the like hardships that you suffer : if we can but live in state and abundance , and make vast quantities of sugar , or other commodities yearly , which is our chief delight , and the highest good we desire ; and he that does thus do , how hard soever he uses his slaves , is counted a brave husband , and a good christian too , a very notable man , fit for others to make examples by , and imitate his prudent conduct . negr. but all this time you look not into the radix , nor consider the lamentahle oppressions and violences that cleave fast to this your good husbandry ( as you call it ) that your houses are cemented with blood , and all your dainties and your riches accompanied with the dolorous complaints , sighs and groans of your poor vassals , which are continually sent up to heaven against you . mast. no , no , we expel all such melancholly thoughts with a plentiful glass of wine , jovial company , or other sensual diversions . negr. those arts you use to lay your reason and consciences to sleep , will in the end both hasten and aggravate that vengeance which must necessarily follow all injustice and oppression . as for maintining pride , superfluity , and other evils of that nature , i am of your mind , that they cannot be supplied without oppression and violence ; for all extreams beget their likenesses : but sure you christians above all others , ought not to regard such vanities , but relinquish and detest all superfluity , pride , gluttony , and other the like intemperances , since they are so diametrically opposite to your profession and religion . besides , you abuse your selves and posserity , by thinking to raise great estates , or derive any lasting temporal happiness to you or them , by over-charging us with labour ; for does not reason and experience let you know , that houses built with mouldering stone and rotten timber , will not long continue ; and that estates heap'd together by violence , carry along with them a curse and are blasted from the radix , so that at most they seldom descend to the third heir , and rarely out-live the first or second generation ? what are become of all the glories of the nimrods , and the caesars , and the alexanders ? of all the mighty tyrants , and spreading monarchies of the assyrians , medes , persians , macedonians and romans ? are they not all long since crusht to pieces by one another , because their foundations were laid in violence and spoil , injustice and oppressions ? the spaniards , who baptized the new world in blood , murdered many hundred thousand indians , on pretence of propagating the christian religion , when in truth it was only to get gold and empire ; have they not met with retaliation ? have they not decreased in power ever since those cruelties , and instead of grasping an universal monarchy , ( which their ambition promised themselves ) are now scarce able to defend their own antient patrimony , or keep off an enemy from the frontiers of castile ? if all these mighty men of war have shipwrackt by steering this course , how hope you with your petty pinnaces , and tottering skiffs , to avoid the like tempests ? if just vengeance hath overturned whole empires and kings , that called themselves invinceable , for their cruelties and oppressions , how shall your private fortunes be establisht , that have no other foundation but the like violence and injustice ? on the other side , i pray observe , there are many honest , compassionate , and truly christian-spirited men amongst you , that do not willingly oppress either man or beast , and yet you see how they are blest , and prosper , and enjoy more true content and happiness in one week , than you whose minds are continually distracted with greedy desires , or anxious fears , do in all your lives ; nor are any of your estates so firmly establisht , as those whose possessors use mercy and gentleness in all their doings ; for vertue and well-doing will as naturally attract the influences , and favour both of god and man , and of the coelestials , as well as inferior creatures , as a loadstone does iron : and whosoever endeavours sincerely to live according to the innocent law of god in nature , shall be filled with good things , but those that study to grow rich by wickedness and oppression , shall be sent empty away , and both their estates and their hopes be scattered like leaves before the wind. nor is your practice herein less impudent than ungodly , all wickedness being indeed the height of folly , and piety and vertue evermore the best policy . for why should you oppress us , by whose labours you are sustained ? and our ill is your loss , are we not your money ? and what a small matter more than you allow us , might plentifully supply us ? as suppose such masters as have fifty , a hundred or two hundred negroes , if they would add to our allowance , fifty , or one hundred , or two hundred pounds per annum , it might maintain us in lively strength , and sufficient vigour to go through with our labour with cheerful spirits , and brisk dispositions ; then should our souls ( instead of cursing , and calling for vengeance upon you ) bless you , and serve you cordially and willingly , with all our power . for those that are wise amongst us , matter not their freedom so much , provided they might but be admitted such necessary supports , priviledges and accomodations , as our bountiful creator by his hand-maid , nature , has plentifully provided for all his creatures , and especially for the race of men : and then would you have peace in your own houses and spirits , whereas now you are always filled with contention , anger , strife , jealousie or suspitions ; nor need you ever then fear our rising up against you , to cut you off , or any other invasion ; for nothing does so much disarm the rage of the fierce wrath , as well-doing and innocency ; these being the surest bulwarks both against inward and outward enemies . mast. i cannot deny the truth of what you have said , nor know i how to make any further objections , therefore i think it will more become us to amend our practices , than to study arguments to cloak or defend them . negr. i am over-joy'd , good master , to hear these words from your mouth ; they sound well in our ears , and make most pleasant musick ; nor will you , i dare promise you , ever have cause to repent of these merciful resolutions , for the only way for you to have good servants , is for you first to be good masters ; and though some of our country-men are untractable , sullen , morose , cruel and revengeful ( more especially by reason of the oppressions before-mentioned ) so others of them have notwithstanding given you strong motives to believe their integrity and faithful honesty towards their masters , and christians in general , for many of us at several times , and on sundry occasions , have givem most clear and demonstrative testimonies of our faithfulness , in discovering several horrid plots and conspiracies , which some of the worst of us had designed against our masters ; and how little do many of us value our dear lives , to save our masters ? and how ready are we to go , run , work , watch and defend our masters ▪ and to preserve their rights ? so that many of our christian masters have been heard to say , that they would as soon , and willingly trust their lives with some of their negro slaves , as with the most trusty christian servants they had . and i doubt not , but if our masters deal justly , and with tenderness preserve us , by allowing us such suitable food , drinks and rest as are needful for the support of our lives and health , and suitable to the climate , we should all in general become more tractable , obedient and diligent , and thereby not only perform our labour much better , but secretly attract the sweet influences of god and nature on their heads , and then twenty of us would dispatch as much work and business as thirty do , or can do , that have neither food that is proper , either in quantity or quality , nor due rest , for want of which , the whole frame of the body , and all the members grow heavy , dull , weak and heartless , and the mind indisposed and averse from , as well as unable for work or business , which can never go on well , and to satisfaction , where the chief motive is whip and spur , fear on the one side , and cruelty on the other . besides , if we and our wives were kept in good heart , we should be able to get not only more strong and healthy children , but more in number , which would supply your business far better , than for you every year to be at that great charge of buying such numbers of new negroes , of whom many fail , and many dye upon the change of climate ; for by reason of the hardships used to us , and especially the cruelties towards our wpmen , during their pregnancy , they so often miscarry , that we upon the island cannot keep our number , but decrease so fast , that you are forced every year ( at vast charge ) to fetch about ten thousand ( as i have heard ) new ones ; whereas there is no doubt to be made , but if we were conveniently supplied with food and competent rest , and some due respect or commiseration had to our wives when they are big , then every of our masters families would so encrease by his own bread , that there would be no more occasion for buying of new ones , which would wonderfully enrich you ; so that if either you regard the rules of your holy religion , and will not justly be branded for hypocrites or atheists ; if you have any respect to humanity , common honesty , and that universal ●rinciple ( but almost universally neglected ) to do as you would be done by ; or lastly , if you would avoid divine vengeance , in retaliation for your oppressions , and would justly encrease your estates by such ways , as they may be a comfort to your selves , and continue to your posterity : if all or any of these thing , i say , have any weight with you , then speedily leave off your severities , and let your usage of us be such as is fit for men to practise towards men , let us see the excellency of the christian religion , by the goodness of your lives that profess it , by your meekness , and charity , and benignity , and compassion towards your fellow creatures , especially those of the same species with your selves , and who have no less rational and immortal souls than the best of you : if these things you do , we and our posterity shall willingly serve you , and not count it any slavery , but our unspeakable happiness ; peace shall be in your dwellings , and safety shall surround your island , for innocency is a better defence than forts and citadels , than armies and fleets , than walls of brass , flankt with towers of adamant : in a word , you shall have satisfaction within , and security without , and enjoy the blessings both of time and eternity . but if neither the voice of religion , nor nature , can be heard ; if neither humanity nor self-interest can prevail with you , be assured , that although you are wilfully deaf , our great creator will be ready to hear our cries ; and you must certainly one day make retaliation to the uttermost farthing . mast. sambo ! i have hearkened attentively , and well considered your discourse , which carries with it such evidence and reason , that i must acknowledge i am convinced that our former conduct towards you , has not been agreeable to our religion , or common equity ; therefore for my own part , you shall see by future vsage , what impression your words have made upon me , nor shall i be wanting to acquaint others with what you have offered — it grows late , therefore you were best be gone , and betake your self to rest. negr. boon master , i return you a thousand of thanks for the freedom you have given me of speaking to you : and i am overjoyed to hear , that you have thereby received some satisfaction ; i shall now return to my fellow servants ; and as i have used some arguments to you to be kind to them , so i shall on all occasions press them with arguments to be obedient , humble , just and respective to all their masters . mast. therein honest sambo ! you will do very well , and so good night to you . negr. good night , my good dear master ! finis . notes, typically marginal, from the original text notes for div a63791-e10120 * so the negro's in their language call the whites . the laws of jamaica passed by the assembly, and confirmed by his majesty in council, feb. 23. 1683 : to which is added, a short account of the island and government thereof, with an exact map of the island. laws, etc. jamaica. 1683 approx. 259 kb of xml-encoded text transcribed from 146 1-bit group-iv tiff page images. text creation partnership, ann arbor, mi ; oxford (uk) : 2009-10 (eebo-tcp phase 1). a46390 wing j124 estc r8077 12417758 ocm 12417758 61745 this keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the early english books online text creation partnership. this phase i text is available for reuse, according to the terms of creative commons 0 1.0 universal . the text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. early english books online. (eebo-tcp ; phase 1, no. a46390) transcribed from: (early english books online ; image set 61745) images scanned from microfilm: (early english books, 1641-1700 ; 943:14) the laws of jamaica passed by the assembly, and confirmed by his majesty in council, feb. 23. 1683 : to which is added, a short account of the island and government thereof, with an exact map of the island. laws, etc. jamaica. hanson, francis. [63], 218, [6] p. : fold. map. printed by h. hills for charles harper ..., london : 1683. reproduction of original in cambridge university library. the "account of the island and government thereof" forms the preface and is signed f.h. (i.e. francis hanson) created by converting tcp files to tei p5 using tcp2tei.xsl, tei @ oxford. re-processed by university of nebraska-lincoln and northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. eebo-tcp is a partnership between the universities of michigan and oxford and the publisher proquest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by proquest via their early english books online (eebo) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). the general aim of eebo-tcp is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic english-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in eebo. eebo-tcp aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the text encoding initiative (http://www.tei-c.org). the eebo-tcp project was divided into two phases. the 25,363 texts created during phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 january 2015. anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source. users should be aware of the process of creating the tcp texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data. text selection was based on the new cambridge bibliography of english literature (ncbel). if an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in ncbel, then their works are eligible for inclusion. selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. in general, first editions of a works in english were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably latin and welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so. image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in oxford and michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet qa standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. after proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of tcp data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a tcp editor. the texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the tei in libraries guidelines. copies of the texts have been issued variously as sgml (tcp schema; ascii text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable xml (tcp schema; characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless xml (tei p5, characters represented either as utf-8 unicode or tei g elements). keying and markup guidelines are available at the text creation partnership web site . eng jamaica -description and travel. jamaica -politics and government. 2008-05 tcp assigned for keying and markup 2008-09 spi global keyed and coded from proquest page images 2008-10 john pas sampled and proofread 2008-10 john pas text and markup reviewed and edited 2009-02 pfs batch review (qc) and xml conversion the laws of jamaica , passed by the assembly , and confirmed by his majesty in council , feb. 23. 1683. to which is added , a short account of the island and government thereof . with an exact map of the island . london , printed by h. hills for charles harper at the flower de luce over against st dunstan's-church in fleet-street . 1683. to the reader . reader , i have now neither time to write the particulars of the history of that flourishing island of jamaica , nor conveniency to insert it into this book of the laws of that country , because i should thereby make it to swell beyond the intended conveniency of a pocket-book . but for the better satisfaction of any that may be inclin'd to remove themselves to that island , i have been desired to write this short ( but true ) account of that country ; which please to take as followeth . the island of jamaica fell first into the possession of the english the 10th . day of may , in the year 1655. the middle of it is situated nearest in 17 degrees 40 minutes of north latitude , so that their longest day from sun rising to sun setting is 13 hours 4 minutes , and their shortest 10 hours 56 minutes , the difference of longitude , from the meridian of london , to the meridian which passes over port-royal ( the chiefest town there , ) is 78 degrees 45 minutes westward , which causes 5 hours 15 minutes difference in time , so that when it is noon-day there , it is a quarter of an hour past 5 in the afternoon in london . the length of the island lies nearest east and west , and is accounted to be 180 miles , and the bredth in the broadest part of it 45 miles , so that its figure is nearest an oval . it lies under that which is called the torrid zone , nevertheless the air is moderately temperate , occasion'd by the long absence of the sun every night , by the strong easterly breezes which generally blow from 8 or 9 in the morning to 4 or 5 in the afternoon , and by the land wind , which is a small cool breeze that comes off the shoar from all parts of the island in the evening , and blows gently all night . the nights are for the most part fair , and not a cloud to be seen in the sky , so that by their clearness and coolness they are exceedingly pleasant ; the day time is much more hot and troublesome , by reason of the sun , and the sea wind , which most days blows very hard ; if the weather be such as is accounted seasonable , it commonly rains a shower in the inland parts under the mountains more or less every day , about 1 or 2 a clock , from the beginning of april , to the beginning of december , with thunder and lightning , and this makes the island fertile , especially if accompanied with those they call the general seasons , which are commonly great rains in may and november , that continue night and day with small intermission for 8 or 10 days together , but these failing ( as sometimes they do ) is prejudicial to all things in the country ; the rest of the year is for the most part very fair and delicate weather , without much rain . thunder , or lightning , and not at all too hot . there are earthquakes sometimes , two or three perhaps in a year , but so moderate that they are over before one can well be sensible what they are , and never have yet been so violent to do any harm , the middle parts of the island are very full of mountains , which towards the eastward end of it , are so high that they are not habitable , scarce accessible , these mountains for the most part are covered with large timber-trees of divers sorts of wood fitting for building and several uses , as well as for bearing many sorts of fruits , which maintain great plenty of pigeons , doves , parots , and other sorts of birds , and also of wild hoggs , all very good for food , betwixt these mountains there run many rivers , several whereof by the acquisition of divers of the smaller rivulets become large , but few navigable , by reason they are for the most part barr'd at their falling into the sea , and many of them sinking into the ground ( when they come into the low-lands ) before they can reach thither ; these rivers are well stored with good fish , mullets , creafish , and eeles , such as are in england , the rest strangers to the english climate , though all very sitting to be eaten . the sea about this island is also plentifully stored with many sorts of very good fish , and likewise with tortoise , and manates , both pleasant and delicious food . the low-lands and plain grounds , are where the people generally inhabit , and in these are level tracts of several miles in length and bredth , like our meadows , ( full of grass ) called savannas ( which name they retain from the spaniards ) in these are bred great plenty of cattle , sheep , horses , asses and mules , sufficient both for food and service , there is also in the country great stocks of hogs , hens , ducks , pigeons , rabbets , turkeys , and divers kinds of wild fowl , and also sufficient stores of all sorts of garden herbs and roots , pulse and sallads , and with excellent fruits , some known here , as grapes of divers sorts , and from several countries , lemons , oranges , citrons , pomgranats , and musk mellons , besides other very good fruits , proper to that country , as the celebrated pine , & many more not much inferiour to that incomparable fruit , and that which makes these fruits of the more use and beauty , and the country thereby the more pleasant , is , that they ( as well as the leaves on all the trees ) continue all the year , there being no winter , or decay , but a continual spring , on every seasonable shower of rain , so that there is nothing wanting , for a necessary , plentiful , or delicate living ; in this island are many convenient harbours for shipping , besides several bays and roads fitting for the landing or takeing off of goods : the chiefest of these is port-royal , which in its safety for shipping , depth of water cleanness of ground , and conveniency of the shore and wharfs , for lading and unlading of shipping , may compare with any in the known world , and to add the more to the security of this , and the other harbours of this island , those dreadful hurricans , which often afflict the islands of barbados , nevis , &c. never yet came near this country . adjoyning to this harbour , on an isthmus of land , is a handsome town of the same name , built from the foundation by the english , the ground it stands on is but 53 acres , and cannot be inlarged in its buildings otherwise then what the inhabitants gain by the height of their houses , for it 's incompassed all round with the harbour and sea , unless on the east part , and there the isthmus being narrow , is cut off from the sea to the harbour , with a strong and well fortified wall , built with brick and stone , and sufficiently gunn'd , to secure the town from any attempt from the land part , without which wall none are suffered to build , that so there may be no shelter for an enemy ; this town for its bigness is very populous , and contains about a 1000 houses , many of which are built with bricks , and beautified with balconies , after the modern way of building in london ; the streets are also regular , and kept very clean ; there is also in it a fair church built with brick and stone , and handsomely finished within , and for the defence of the town and harbour , there are 5 forts strongly built with stone , on which are mounted about 110 large guns , all kept in good order ; hither resort most of the ships , here is the custom-house , here live the merchants , and here is mannaged the chiefest part of the trade of the island ; to this harbour belongs about 100 fine sailing sloops , from about 12 tuns to 40 tuns in bigness , most of them built in the country , which find very good imployment in trading and carrying goods about the island , and to the spaniards , catching of tortoise , and other ways , by which their owners live very well . about 7 leagues to the westward of this is an old harbour , a very large , good and safe harbour for shipping , and here also is a small town built , which daily encreases , as the inland parts of the country about it , are more and more setled and planted ; more westerly is carlisle bay , a safe road for shipping , and there is likewise built a pretty town of that name , of about 100 houses , which has a fine trade , that also increases , as the country does in plantations ; farther west is bluefields bay , and other good roads , and the like there is also in st. james's , st. anns , and st. maries , on the north side of the island , and in the parish of st. georges in the north-east parts , is port antonio , a safe and good harbour , and such another in the south-east part , called port morant , besides divers good bays more on the south side , as morant yallahs , &c. so that there want not conveniencies for the importing or exporting of their commodities , in any part of the country . there are no poysonous or hurtful creatures known to be in this island , nor any voracious but the crocodil , of which though there are many in the sea , and the rivers , yet it is rare to hear of any injury done by them . there is but one town in the inland parts of the country , and that is called st. jago de la vega , it is seated near the banks of a fine river on the one side , and on the other is a large plain , or savanna of several miles extent , it is about 6 miles from the sea of port royal harbour , and was built by the spaniards many years since , and in their time was a large town , and well built after their manner , but on the first peopling of the island by the english , ( when they were only an army ) many of the houses were destroy'd by the souldiers , and have not since been rebuilt , because the trade of the country consisting wholly of planters and merchandizing , the one sort whereof living scattered about the country as farmers do in england , and the other dwelling in the sea-port towns , there is no occasion in the inland parts for such a community of men to dwell together , as that town would have receiv'd had it continued in its former greatness , yet here are still many streets , and fair houses , here is also the seat of the government ; the governours house and chief courts of justice , here the assembly met , and here are kept all the records of the island . the chiefest commodity that this island makes , is a sort of muscovadoe sugar , that excells any that is made in any other of his majesties plantations , the quantity of which increases so much every year , that it gives addition to the number of ships trading thither ; besides this sugar , there are great quantities of indico , cotton , ginger , tobacco , piemento , cacaes , hydes , achiots , tortoise-shell , and divers sort of dying , and other woods , for fine joyners work , and cabinets growing there , all which commodities are as good in their kinds , as are in any country , and excepting the sugar , indico , cotten , ginger and tobacco , are peculiar to this , and are in no other of his majesties plantations ; there are also many other accidental commodities brought in from the spaniards , as log-wood , plate , pieces of eight , gold , pearl , emeraulds , &c. by means of which manufactory and trade , there is not less then 20 sail of ships of 300 tuns a piece burthen , and upwards , besides others , which only use that voyage , and of all sorts above 100 sail of ships now laden every year , and as the island fills with english , and is supplyed with negroes , the trade and shipping will both encrease ; this island depends wholly on his majesty , without any other proprietors or companies , and ever since his majesties happy restoration , he has been graciously pleased it should be govern'd by a governour fully impowered by his majesties commission , who has a council consisting of 13 of the gravest and chiefest gentlemen of the island , to advise with on all occasions , and to them , when it is requisite , there is called an assembly of two and thirty of the gentlemen of the country , chosen by the free-holders from among themselves , by vertue of his majesties writ , which to that end is issu'd out by the governour , into the several precincts of the country ; these together with the governor , and council make such laws as are necessary for the well governing of the island , and to the making of any law , there must be the consent of the governour , council , and assembly , as three distinct states , of which if any one dissent , no bill can pass into an act , so that the making of laws there , is assimilated as near as may be , to that of our native country of england , and these laws so made , are of force at all times , until his majesty be pleased to declare his pleasure to the contrary , and for the incouragement of any of his majesties subjects to go thither , with intent to settle and plant , his majesty is graciously pleased , to give every man for himself , wife , children , and servants , and all he brings with him ( or shall at any time after import ) 30 acres of land for every head , in any part of the island , that they themselves shall choose , which is not already possest by others , they paying only the common charges of the surveying and the patent ; and this passes to the possessor , his heirs , or assigns for ever , by his majesties said grant , under the great seal of the island , in common soccage , which patent being enrolled , in the office for that purpose established there , is good against his majesties claim , or any pretenders whatsoever , though the patent it self , should happen to be lost , burnt , or any otherwise destroyed , the manner of the civil government there is as in england , by sessions of the peace , justices , constables , and other necessary officers , which are appointed in the several parts of the country , as there is occasion , that justice may be equally distributed ; and for the military government , and defence of the island , every man from 16 years old to 60 , is obliged ( in 6 weeks after arrival with intent to settle there ) to list himself in what company of foot , or troop of horse , he pleases , but haing listed himself , he is not to remove at his pleasure , except he goes to dwell in some other part of the country , and then he must list himself in that regiment , where he goes to reside ; of this militia ( it being no otherwise ) the governour is captain general , who is impower'd by his commission , to make under him colonels , captains , and all other officers , which train and discipline their respective souldiers , and take care that they keep good arms , well fixt , and sufficient stores of ammunition always by them , that so they may be ready on any occasion . the town of port royal has in it one intire regiment of this militia , consisting of 10 companies , one of which companies mounts the guard successively every night , and keeps watch in the several forts , in as good order as is used in any regular garrison , that is in pay . for the tryal of titles of land , decision of controversies , and recovery of debts , there are several courts established , the methods whereof will here follow , written by an ingenious gentleman , who has been a long practitioner in the courts and laws of that country , as well as in the laws of england . the preface . his majesty having been graciously pleased ( with the advice of the lords of the privy council appointed a committee for trade and plantations ) to give his royal assent to several acts made by the governour , council and assembly of jamaica ; it was thought fit to publish the same , as well for the benefit of its inhabitants , as all others his majesties subjects who may trade or be any ways concern'd there ; but for prevention of mistakes ( lest strangers to jamaica , might think these few acts were all the laws and privileges of that island , which might lessen it in their esteem , and discourage some from adventuring themselves or their fortunes thither ) i was desired by some persons of quality , to give a more particular account thereof , in observance of whose commands , and respect i bear the place , i promised my endeavours , but must be very brief , for that the book is in the press ready to come forth ; wherein i may be the more excusable since a gentleman who has lived long in , and very well knows that flourishing country , hath here already given so good a description of the island which ( as he saith ) was taken from the spaniards in the year 1655 , and i may add in the 7th . year of his now majesties reign , who when he came to exercise his royal authority was pleased to own what his subjects had done ( which was the same as if he had commissionated them ) and among other his glorious titles descended to stile himself lord of jamaica by whose special grace and favour we have hitherto all the laws and priviledges of english men exercised and continued amongst us there . these acts now printed being only by-laws for better government of the plantation ( which in some case requires different regulations from the kingdom of england , as some counties for stanneries , fens , &c. do here ) and for raising such necessary customs as may defray the publick charge of that country , for all judges and justices in jamaica determine all pleas there according to the laws of england ; pursuant whereunto that island hath been govern'd , except some little variations for ease and benefit of a new settlement , as our proceedings being all in english , our pleading general issues and giving special matters in evidence , our suits being more concise and far less chargeable than in england , the practice of our courts there much more plain and intelligible . to begin with his majesties supream court of judicature ( so called ) which hath the same jurisdiction with the kings-bench , common-pleas , and exchequer at westminster , and is held 4 times in the year as the terms in england , viz. every last tuesday in february , may , august and november , which continue each time about a week , and therein are first determin'd all pleas of the crown , then follow common-pleas , &c. the judges of that court being commission'd by his majesty or his governours are always 5 or 7 whereof not less than 3 can try any cause and they consist of the most considerable gentlemen of the island both for parts and estates , and usually the chief justice is one of the best quality , who hath practised and is well read in the laws of england ; tho few of them are so learned as the judges here , yet they are men of the greatest sense and reason ( whereon all law is or should be grounded ) this court is not burthen'd with many officers , for one called the clerk of the grand court is prothonotary custos brevium , &c. nor do we trouble our selves with many sorts of writs , as originals , capias , alias or pluries , very rarely or never , arresting any person of known residence , only send him a summons to appear next court , and that he may come provided , a copy of the declaration is always left with the summons , which being served 8 days at least before the court , the defendant is bound to appear , plead , joyn issue , and come to tryal the very next court , or judgment will pass by default , no imparlance being allowed without special cause , as on oath that he hath material witnesses , and hath endeavoured , but cannot subpoena them . in tryals we have not several venire's nor a particular jury for every cause , unless in some special matter of great import , but by a general venire , the marshal prepares enough for four or five setts of jurors , not knowing what issues they are to try ( which prevents packing or partial returns ) who are impannel'd in court , and put upon the crown side , or common pleas , in such causes as the judges extempore direct . and the same jury usually tries six or more at a time , as the court thinks their memory , may well bear , for help whereof some of them take notes ; also they are permitted to take with them the record it self with all papers or deeds proved in court , most of our actions there being plain matters of debt or accompt and some few ejectments , writs of dower , partition , &c. the jurors indorse their verdict on each record which is deliver'd in court to the clark , who of course enters judgment unless it be arrested , which every one may move the last day of the court , but is rarely granted without very special cause presently made appear ; but if such motions are ever favoured it is in excessive damages on action of slander or frivolous trespasses which are usually discountenanced ; we are not intreagu'd with dilatory writs of inquiry , but when any judgment is confess'd or passeth by nil dicit in case , &c. the next jury happening to be trying issues in court take the record and assess damages presently . and for ease of those who live by their labour to prevent unnecessary attendance and expences , all actions depending that court or term , are called and tryed alphabetically beginning with the plaintiffs names ; so all parties witnesses , &c. may guess on what day such a letter may come on , and accordingly give their attendance . fourteen days after the beginning of the court execution issues , for which we have but one writ comprehending both a fieri fac and capias ad sat . ( viz. ) to levy the debt and costs of the defendants goods , or if he have none , then , to take his body , but because no general imparlance is allowed before , we in a manner give one after judgment : for that no man may be ruined by hasty surprise and sale of his goods , the same after seizure in execution may be returned , but must be left in the defendants hands to dispose to most advantage ( if he end not with the plaintiff ) so as to bring the money into next court , wherein if he fails , then a venditioni exponas issues to the marshal to sell them or any other goods or take his body : before or after which the defendant is at liberty to bring his writ of error returnable before the governour and council though it is very rarely practised , such writs meeting with very little encouragement in just debts . his majesty hath also constituted in this island a court of chancery wherein the governour himself always sits as chancellour , assisted by several discreet gentlemen of eminency as masters , where causes are speedily determined without those delays and expences used in england there are also in every parish or county monthly courts erected for tryal of all actions under twenty pounds , or ad infinitum , with a justicies out of chancery , which the governour cautiously grants on special occasions . of judgments in these courts writs of error lie retornable at the supream court , but rarely brought for reason aforesaid . then every justice of peace ( besides the authority of a justice in england ) hath power of holding a court of conscience for all matters not exceeding fourty shillings value . the quarter sessions are also held in each parish or county after the manner of england , and there is a court of admiralty at the town of port royal for tryal of piracy and deciding other maritime affairs , from whence we have the liberty of appealing to the governour there , or to his majesty in council here for redress . the governour also hath power ( as ordinary of the diocess ) for probate of wills , granting administrations and determining all controversies concerning the same ; but ecclesiastical or spiritual courts are not yet known in this island , nor are purchasers here incumbred with bad titles for that register ( so much wished for in england ) is here established where all conveyances being acknowledged are to be enroll'd within three months , if the cognisors inhabit there ; but if any persons feme coverts or others residing in england , and interested in any lands or plantations there shall desire to dispose of the same here , they must seal and deliver their deeds before two or more credible persons going for jamaica , who attesting the same before a judge there , the same may be enrolled in six months , and shall be as valid in law , as if done by fine , recovery or otherwise . in which case i should advise the purchaser to take by way of lease and release , and to have two parts at least of each , with covenants for further assurance , &c. that if one part happen to miscarry , he may require another , yet so as always to keep one here , lest any breach of covenants should happen . and since this publick register or office of enrolments is found of such general use , that no purchaser or lender of money can be deceived in his title , it may not be unseasonable ( for advancement of our plantation trade , and consequently enriching our native country of england , the great receptacle of all our wealth ) to encourage monied men ( who expose it here at 4 , and 5. per cent . yet cannot get satisfactory security ) to adventure some of it for jamaica , where they may have unquestionable security , by men of visible estates , or good mortgages , for neither persons nor estates can be there incumbred , but they must be discover'd either by the aforesaid register or report of their neighbours , who generally more intimately know and better observe each others affairs than they can in england . nor was it ever known that any mortgage hath been defeated or title proved defective where compared and agreeing with the register , so that any persons having monies here to put out , may remit the same to jamaica by bills of of exchange at 20 per cent . or in commodities ( by advice of merchants here ) at 40 , or 50 per cent . or more advance , and lend the same at 10 per cent . running only ( in commodities ) the risque of the sea which also is so inconsiderable , that it may be ensured for about 2 per cent . but when they recal their moneys they may expect 15 , or 20 per cent . loss on their returns though sometimes they gain also back which loss when it happens may be attributed to the difference of our coyns here and there , jamaica money being about ⅕ more in value there than it will yield in england . and such adventurers have this further encouragement , that all real securities there are meliorated ( being certainly emprovable ) the longer they continue planted , whereas lands here usually decrease in value . it might also turn to much greater advantage then the best way of employing money in england to purchase plantations there , many good penniworths frequently offering , as may be found by inquiry here of such as have estates there , though usually those that have least do most undervalue the place : for if jamaica lie under any ill character she owes it to some few prodigals who having riotously consumed that little they carried thither , and being through ignorance or laziness incapable of any imploy , come home and rail against the country , to justifie their unprofitable voyage and return . there is also another imputation on jamaica , viz. the difficulty of getting due returns and recovery of just debts . to the first it hath usually more noise than substance , for many men of declining fortunes , to deceive their creditors , or otherwise , boast of great concerns there , and disappointments by their factors and agents , &c , when really they have little or nothing in the island , for if they had , the law is open and much more cheap and expeditious remedies to be used there than in england , though indeed as to the second some have herein met with obstructions partly occasioned by a former law indulging all new comers for 5 years against prosecutions for forreign debts : but that being now thought a disparagement to so populous and opulent a colony , was dislik't by the lords committees and is not confirmed : other inconveniencies some have met with for want of due information how to draw their proofs an procurations : i would not encourage any litigious suits , but for instruction of honest creditors against able debtors , i should prescribe this method , that all letters of attorny be attested by persons going thither , who may prove the same vivâ voce , which being recorded there , is good though the witnesses die or return , whereas persons usually send procurations under corporation seals which are not there admitted for that better proofs may be easily had as aforesaid ; but such cannot always be found for debt : in such case the law there is so favourable to admit depositions attested under the seal of the city of london or other corporations , but then the plaintiff would do well to give due credit on oath for what he hath received , or else the defendant may have just occasion ( with security ) to delay him by injunction till he answer his bill in chancery : or if the debt accrews by specialtie , the original bond it self must go over , it being unreasonable to recover against any man on a copy , yet the bond it self lie out against him ; nor can indorsments nor truth so well appear unless produced in court. if any bill of exchange be drawn from jamaica which will not be paid here , one of the original bills must go back doubly protested as well for non acceptance as for non payment , and in mistaking these or such like measures ( grounded upon law and reason ) many have been baffled or delayed and then causlesly reflect on the justice of the island . this is what occurs at present about our temporal laws . i may also add that the people are generally of the church of england , and i am confident , in no part of the kings dominions hath his majesty more truly loyal subjects for the number of its inhabitants , than are in jamaica : we have very few papists or sectaries , for neither jesuits or nonconformist parsons do or can live among us ; some few have attempted , but never could gain proselytes enough to afford them sustenance ( though all except papists may freely exercise what religion they please without disturbance ) but for able orthodox divines there is so great encouragement that it 's to be admired so many can content themselves with such mean or no benefices in england , when they may so comfortably subsist in jamaica , for that they are certainly provided for by an act intituled , for maintenance of ministers , which see in this book folio 124. besides which allowances , in most parishes the contingencies by voluntary presents for christenings , marriages , buryings , and otherwise with houses taking boarders , schooling , &c. make considerable additions . so that they may live comfortably and lay up ; victuals being as plentiful and of the same sorts for butchers meat , tame and wild fowl , fish , bread , &c. ( with more variety ) as in england , with this difference that we have green peas , beans , cherries , asparagus , musk and water mellons , pines , grapes , oranges , pomgranats , citrons , lemons and hundreds of several other sorts of fruits in season all the year long . but some are apt to object the hazard of the voyage , and unhealthiness of the place ; as to the first , it 's as safe going to jamaica as to go in a wherry on the river thames , where more boats are cast away in proportion than ships going for that island , for we soon come into a trade wind and presently sail before it , almost constantly blowing from east to west , that is from england to jamaica . it being rarely known that any vessels miscarry going thither . and this is evident enough if we consider the common rate of ensurers at two per cent . who are men of foresight and experience never proposing less then doubling their money which they cannot do if but one ship in an hundred miscarry , yet that doth not happen in time of peace . then as to the unhealthiness of the climate , ( there are some who never were abroad think all places beyond sea much alike , so that having heard of sickness and seasonings for new comers in places lately setled they are apt to impute it without any reason to jamaica , the air being always serene and weather constantly temperate , though usually reputed very hot , yet it 's only so comparatively in respect of these northern climates , being with us always summer as if every month were june . i have observed and can experimentally affirm for twelve years last past jamaica to be as healthful a place as any part of england , for sober temperate persons , who have command of themselves , especially at first arrival , and can moderately drink one third wine with two thirds water , but one the other side i think it as pernicious a place to debauch in , as any in the world , and this so necessary vertue of sobriety being more habitual in the other sex , makes the place far less fatal to them then men , whereof usually ten dye in proportion for one woman , as appears by the yearly bills of mortality on port royal ( which is the london of jamaica ) and it is not extraordinary , if we also consider the nature of the climate ( as it really is , ) most propitious to child-bearing women who are not so subject to miscarriages , distempers , pains or difficulties before , at or after delivery , as they are in england , for being always summer , there is no danger of catching colds , nor need of fires in their chambers , no rooms there having any chimnies except the kitchen which is usually apart from the dwelling house . in jamaica the women after child-bed are strong and lusty at three days end , and about house again in a week ; nay some negro women are at work in the field the same or next day . i have been often questioned about the natives of our island whether they were not a terror to us , &c it may not therefore be impertinent to declare that jamaica is wholly inhabited with english , who found none there but spaniards , which were soon beaten off , and are long since in battel or by flight extirpated , though perhaps it was formerly very populous with indians , but those were destroyed by the spaniards , so that we have no natives at present but children of the english , or their negro slaves ( which are imported thither as merchandize from guiney and other parts of africa ) of whom we are in no such fear or danger as in lesser islands . but jamaica is of too vast an extent for any such surprize , being in many places divided with mountains of difficult access , and great rivers not passable but by boats or ferries , which dare carry no negroes without a written ticket or licence from their master or overseer . and if any slave be found wandring out of his masters plantation any person may seize and carry him to his owner or next officer and receive a certain reward . by which and other expedient methods , it 's safer living or travelling in jamaica than england , we having rarely any house-breaking or robbery , for want of receivers , most persons there generally knowing each other as they do in country cities here , though there are few inns for travellers , yet they are better and cheaper accommodated at planter houses , who are generally very hospitable and are conveniently dispersed over the whole island , for all jamaica is setled by the english from one end to the other , though in some places more thin than others . the houses indeed are not so close as in some parts of england , yet usually the plantations are contiguous , for a great sugar work requires some hundreds of acres for canes , wood , provisions , pasture , &c. yet most of the planters , are forward enough to spare some of it to a good neighbour on reasonable terms . the wood-lands are commonly cleared and used for planting , but there are vast even meadows called savannas , for grazing of horses , cattel , sheep , &c. which we never cut nor make any hay of , having grass all the year long , though sometimes a little too much dryed or scorched by the sun , when many purposely set it one fire , the ashes whereof mannure and emprove the ground against another crop , which will suddenly spring again with the next gentle showers or without , by the great dews which there fall in the night , and in the mean time the cattle retire to other pastures in shady woods or lower marshes ; it is also observable that our horses are generally swift , but few or none of them shod , yet will gallop the most stony way , and climb steep rocks like goats , nor are they troubled with near so many distempers as horses in england , it being common ( though never so hot or hard ridden ) to turn them presently grazing , but the horses are usually of so small a breed that all gentlemens coaches ( which are there very numerous ) go with six horses a piece , we have also several hackney-coaches . the manner of living there for gallantry , good housekeeping and recreations ( as horse-races , bowls , dancing , musick , plays at a publick theatre , &c. ) sufficiently demonstrate the flourishing condition of the island , yearly increasing as well in number of inhabitants as in wealth and plenty , being most commodiously seated in the midst of the spaniards , so that we drain the benefits of their gold and silver mines without their labour and expences . the town of port-royal , being as it were the store-house or treasury of the west-indies . is always like a continual mart or fair where all sorts of choice merchandizes are daily imported not only to furnish the island , but vast quantities are thence again transported to supply the spaniards , indians , and other nations , who in exchange return us bars and cakes of gold , wedges and piggs of silver , pistols , pieces of eight , and several other coyns of both mettles , with store of wrought plate , jewels , rich pearl necklaces , and of pearl unsorted or undrill'd several bushels ; besides which , we are furnished with the purest and most fine sorts of dust gold from guiney , by the negro ships , who first come to jamaica to deliver their blacks , and there usually refit and stay to reload three or four months , in which time ( though the companies gold may be partly sent home ) yet the merchants , masters of ships , and almost every mariner ( having private cargoes ) take occasion to sell or exchange great quantities ; some of which our goldsmiths there work up ( who being yet but few ) grow very wealthy , for almost every house hath a rich cupboard of plate which they carelesly expose , scarce shutting their doors in the night , being in no apprehension of thieves for want of receivers as aforesaid . and whereas most other plantations ever did and now do keep their accounts in sugar , or the proper commodities of the place , for want of money , it is otherwise in jamaica , for in port royal there is more plenty of running cash ( proportionally to the number of its inhabitants than is in london , which ( among other worthy acts ) we chiefly owe to the provident care of his excellency sir thomas lynch our present and former governour , who about ten years ago ( by advice of his majesties council there ) raised the value of our current coyns about ⅕ more than they will yield in any other part of christendom , so that none care to carry money off but bring great quantities thither , which occasions the daily increase of our sugar works and other profitable plantations , and gives great incouragement to the gentlemen planters in other adjacent islands and plantatione to remove and settle amongst us , being there obliged to use trash , and sea-coals to boyl their sugar ( which renders it not so good as when made with quick wood fires ; ) nor are they here at so great charge for horses and cattle to do their work , nor pent up in such narrow plantations for want of land as in those small islands , nor subject to many other inconveniencies incident to little countries and small numbers of people . this island of jamaica being very capacious , and supply'd both from abroad and in it self with great plenty of all things necessary . f. h. index an act appointing the number of the assembly , pag. 4. an act for regulating servants , pag. 6. an act for the high-ways , pag. 22. an act appointing the prices of meat , pag. 30. an act against blasphemy , and for preventing disorders in ale-houses , taverns and victualling-houses , pag. 33. an act impowering justices of the peace to decide differences not exceeding forty shillings , pag. 37. an act rating liquors sold by retail , pag. 42. an act for compensation of mr. nicholas scarlet , pag. 44. an act for the restraining and punishing privateers and pyrates , pag. 46. an act ascertaining the quit-rents and manner of the receipt thereof , pag. 55. an act for preventing damages in plantations , preserving of cattle and regulating hunting , pag. 62. an act securing the purchasers of thomas bun's land upon port-royal , pag. 75. an act encouraging the importation of white servants , pag. 78. an act for registring of deeds and patents , pag. 82. an act for the ferry between st. katherines and st. andrews , pag. 93. an act impowering the church-wardens of st. katherines to receive twelve pence per tun for all goods made up , in cask that are landed on , or shipped from the bridg at passage-fort , for maintaining and repairing the same , pag. 97. an act for confirmation of pious , charitable and publick gifts and grants , pag. 100. an act declaring it high treason to counterfeit his majesties broad seal of this island , pag. 103 an act for clearing of rio cobre above and below caymanas , pag. 105. an act for regulating building and preventing fire , pag. 115. an act for the maintenance of ministers and the poor , and erecting and repairing of churches , pag. 124. an act ascertaining the value of forreign coins , and establishing interest , pag. 139. an act for the better securing certain titles made by way of release and confirmation under the great seal of this island , pag. 145. an act for setling the militia , pag. 148. an act for prevention of law suits , pag. 166. an act for establishing courts and directing marshalls proceedings , pag. 171. an act appointing where the laws of this island shall be lodged , pag. 193. an act for raising a publick impost , pag. 198. an exact mapp of iamaica seala miliarum london printed for charles karper over against st dunstans church in fleet street at the court at whitehall , the 23 d. of february , 1682. present the king 's most excellent majesty . lord keeper . lord president . lord privy seal . duke of ormond . duke of beaufort . earl of oxford . earl of chesterfield . earl of sunderland . earl of clarendon . earl of bath . earl of craven . earl of ailesbury . earl of conway . earl of nottingham . earl of rochester . lord bishop of london . mr. secretary jenkins . mr. chancellor of the exchequer . lord chief justice pemberton . mr. godolphin . whereas by the powers given unto charles earl of carlile , late governour in chief of the island of jamaica , and in his absence to the commander in chief thereof for the time then being , dated the third day of november , in the 32 d year of his majesties reign , as also by a commission unto sir thomas lynch , knight , now governour in chief of the said island , bearing date the sixth day of august , 1681. his majesty has been graciously pleased to authorize and impower the governour , council , and assembly of the said island to constitute and ordain laws , which are to continue and be in force untill his majesties pleasure be signified to the contrary . and forasmuch as certain laws have in pursuance of the said powers and commissions been transmitted unto his majesty , with the humble desire of the said council and assembly , that his majesty would be pleased to pass the same , in the words following . an act appointing the number of the assembly . be it enacted and ordained by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same , that in every assembly hereafter to be called by his majesties writs , and held within this island , there be chosen three representatives for the parish of st. catharines , the like number for the parish of port royal , and two for each other of the respective parishes that now are , or hereafter shall be in this island ; and that the provost marshal , or his lawful deputy , give to every person elected , within ten days after his election , notice that he is so elected . provided always , that every person elected shall be a free-holder in this island , and that none have right to vote in any election , but those that are free-holders in the same parish where the election is to be made . an act for regulating servants . be it enacted and ordained by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that all and every master or masters of slaves , for the first five working slaves , shall be obliged to keep one white man servant , over-seer or hired man for three months at least ; and if the number increase to ten , two ; and for every ten after the first , one , to be resident in the plantation , where the negroes are employed ; and if any shall be wanting for the space of six months of the proportion aforesaid , he , she , or they for every servant so wanting , shall forfeit five pounds to the use of the parish where such default shall be made , to be recovered by the church-wardens by action of debt in any court of record in this island . and it is further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that all masters , mistresses , or over-seers of slaves , who shall not truly inform the constable or constables , within their several precincts , when thereunto required , of all such hired men , or servants , and working slaves , as shall justly and truly belong unto them , or under their care , shall forfeit the sum of twenty pounds , to be recovered by bill , plaint , or information in any court of record within this island , where no essoign , protection , or wager of law shall be allowed ; one third of which penalty shall be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island , and the contingent charges thereof ; one third to the church-wardens of the parish where the offence shall be committed , for the use of the said parish ; and the other third to the informer , or he that shall sue for the same . and whatever constable or constables shall neglect his or their duty herein , by not demanding an account every six months , and returning the same unto the justices sitting at the next quarter-sessions of that precinct , which they are hereby required to do , shall for every such default forfeit the like sum of twenty pounds , to be recovered and applyed in manner and form aforesaid . that all servants shall have according to their contract and indenture , and where there is no contract , or indenture , servants under eighteen years of age at their arrival in this island , shall serve seven years , and above eighteen years of age , shall serve four years , and all convicted felons , for the time of their banishment , and at the expiration of the times aforesaid , shall receive from their last master , mistress , or employer forty shillings , and a certificate of their freedom upon demand ; and whosoever shall refuse , without just cause , to give such certificate to servant , artificer , or labourer , whose time is expired , or contract performed , shall forfeit forty shillings for every such refusal . and whosoever shall employ any free person without a certificate from the the last employer , of the performance of his or their last bargain or contract , shall forfeit ten pounds . that no person or persons presume to trade with any servant or slave without the master or mistresses consent , on penalty of forfeiting to the master or mistress of such servant or slave , treble the value of the things traded for , bought , or sold , and also ten pounds currant money of this island , to be recovered by such master or mistress by action of debt in any court of record ; and all contracts made with servants or slaves to be utterly void . that if any servant or hired labourer shall lay violent hands upon his or her employer , over-seer , or other person put in authority over him or her , such servant or labourer shall for such offence serve his or her employer without any wages twelve months , by order of any justice of the peace on conviction . that by the like order and conviction any over-seer or artificer , hired labourer or servant , that shall embezle , purloin , make away , or waste any of his or her employers money , goods or chattels , not exceeding the value of forty shillings , shall serve , or make satisfaction , according to the discretion of any one of his majesties justices of the peace ; and if above the value of forty shillings , to serve two years by the like order without any wages , and be further liable , in case that time will not satisfie ; and if any such person as aforesaid shall embezle , purloin , or make away any money , goods or chattels of any others than their masters , mistresses , or employers , they shall incur the same penalty , and serve the party injured as aforesaid , after their time expired with their masters or mistresses . and be it further enacted by authority aforesaid , that if any freeman of this island shall at any time hereafter beget a woman-servant with child , he shall ( upon due proof thereof made , which proof shall be by the oath of the said woman , as in other cases of bastardy ) give good security to save the parish harmless ; and as a further punishment for his offence , and for and towards satisfaction of the master or mistress of such servant , shall forfeit and pay unto the said master and mistress the full sum of twenty pounds currant money of this island , and shall likewise provide for the maintenance of the said servant and child , and in case of failure herein , shall serve the master or mistress of such servant , double the time that she had to serve at the time of the offence committed , or shall procure one in his or their stead , that shall be obliged so to do . and in case one servant shall beget another with child , then the man-servant shall , after the expiration of his term , serve the master or mistress of the woman-servant , double the time she had to serve , at the time of the offence committed . that any man-servant marrying without the masters or mistresses consent , shall serve two years for such offence ; but if any free-man shall marry a servant , he shall be liable to pay the master or mistress twenty pounds , and she shall be free . that all suits between servants and their masters or mistresses relating to their freedom , shall be heard and determined by any two justices of the peace without any appeal ; and if any servants absent themselves from their masters or mistresses service without leave , or a ticket from their master , mistress , or over-seer , shall for every such days absence , serve one week , and so in proportion for a'longer or shorter time , the whole punishment not to exceed three years . that if any person shall turn away any sick or infirm servant , under pretence of freedom , or otherwise , and such servant shall die for want of relief , or become chargeable to any parish , the offender shall forfeit twenty pounds of currant moneys of this island , to the use of the parish where such death or charge shall happen , to be recovered by the church-wardens by action of debt in any court of record , unless the party offending shall pay the same , and also receive the said servant , if living , and him to maintain during the whole time the said servant had to serve . but if any servant , through wilful misbehaviour , shall happen to have the french pox , yaws , or any other disease , broken bones , bruises , sickness , impediment , or imprisonment , he or she shall serve their masters or mistresses double the time thereby neglected ; and also for all charges occasioned by reason thereof , at ten shillings per month , after their time by indenture or otherwise be expired ; and also masters or mistresses of servants , who shall receive unjust molestation by complaints or suits of law , shall have the same remedy for their expences and loss of time. that no servant be whipt naked without order of a justice of peace , upon penalty of five pounds , to be recovered by the party injured by action of debt in any court of record . and whosoever shall not give to each white servant weekly , four pounds of good flesh , or four pounds of good fish , together with such convenient plantation provision , as may be sufficient , shall forfeit to the party injured ten shillings for each offence . and whosoever shall not yearly give to each servant three shirts , three pair of drawers , three pair of shooes , three pair of stockings , and one hat or cap , and to the woman proportionably , shall forfeit to the party injured forty shillings . that no master , mistress , or overseer shall cause or suffer any christian servant to be buried or interred , until the body of such servants shall be viewed by a justice of the peace , constable , or tything-man , or by two such neighbours , as the said justice , constable , or tything-man shall choose and appoint , on penalty of twenty pounds currant money of this island , unless such person died ten miles from the dwelling of a justice , constable , or tything-man , and hath been viewed by two of the next neighbours , and in default of neighbours , by two of the same family , or that the said justice , constable , tything-man , or neighbours have not within six hours after notice given , come to view the dead body ; and whosoever upon notice given , and request made to view such dead , shall not within four hours after such notice repair to the view , or on the view finding any suspitious tokens of the bodies unlawful death shall not forthwith give notice to the coroner , or in default of a coroner of that parish , to the next justice of the peace , shall forfeit ten pounds , which justice , in such cases , is hereby empowered to act as a coroner . that whosoever shall entertain a servant , knowing the same to be so , shall forfeit for every day and night after the first , five pounds ; and not knowing him to be a servant , twenty shillings for every day and night after the first , so that the whole exceed not treble the value of the servants time remaining to be served with the master or mistress . provided , that this clause extend not to servants , by contract made in this island , but such as are attested by a justice of the peace , nor to such as entertain any as bring a certificate of their freedom , attested under the name of a justice of peace , though the same be false and forged , or for any other person whose name the bringer personateth , but such forger , falsifier , personater , or bringer , and every one of them shall be set in the pillory , and lose his ears on conviction thereof in the supream court of judicature : but whosoever shall entertain a servant any time , if the said servant shall be drunk , trade or gain , during the said time , shall forfeit the sum of twenty shillings , the one half to the parish where the offence shall be committed , and the other half to the informer , to be levyed by a warrant from any justice of the peace . and also if a servant or hired labourer shall be guilty of hiding or entertaining any person 's servant or slave , he shall forfeit one years service to the master or mistress of such servant or slave , or receive thirty nine lashes on the naked back at the election of the party injured , to be ordered by any justice of the peace to any constable in the precincts . that no person shall ride , load , or carry on his employers horses , cattle , carts , and carriages ( or willingly suffer the same to be done ) any goods or thing whatsoever , other than the masters or mistresses , without such master or mistresses consent , on penalty of three months service for each and every such default . and all constables and tythingmen are to be diligent in apprehending and searching for run-aways , on penalty of twenty pounds for every neglect , and upon the apprehending of run-aways , if the master or mistress be known , the servant shall be carried to the masters or mistresses nearest home , on penalty of forty shillings ; if not known , to the next common gaol , and the bringer to receive of master , mistress , or gaoler , eight pence per mile , so as the whole exceed not forty shillings , which said gaoler is hereby impowered and commanded to receive such run-away or run-aways , and to pay unto the bringer eight pence per mile as aforesaid for every such run-away so brought to him , on penalty of forty shillings ; and that it shall and may be lawful for the marshal to detain and keep in custody the bodies of all such run-aways so brought unto him , until the master or mistress of them , or their assigns shall pay unto him the full sum of what he hath so paid for them , with two shillings six pence per pound for laying out the money , and so proportionably , and also six pence for every twenty four hours the said run-away hath been in his custody ; and if the said marshall shall suffer any run-away so brought to him to escape , before he be duly delivered to his master or mistress , or his or her assigns , that then the said marshal shall pay unto the master or mistress of the said run-away , so much as he shall be condemned in by the verdict of a jury at common law ; also any one may take up any suspected persons , and carry him or her to any justice to be examined . that the captain , or any other commission-officer , shall at the head of every their respective company and troop , publish , or cause to be published this present act once every twelve months , under the penalty of five pounds . provided also , that the several fines , forfeitures , and penalties before mentioned in this act , and not declared where they shall be recovered , and how disposed of , be one moyety to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island and contingent charges thereof ; the other to the informer , to be recovered by action of debt ( if not exceeding forty shillings ) as all penalties of service , before any justice of the peace , and if above forty shillings , and not for service , in any court of record within this island , wherein no essoign , protection or wager of law shall be allowed , any law , custom , or usage to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding . and be it further provided , that no person or persons shall be sued , molested , or troubled for any fine or forfeiture against this present act , unless the party so offending shall be sued or impleaded for the same within two years at the most after the said offence shall be committed . an act for the high-ways . for the better amending and keeping clear the common high-ways , and known broad paths within this island , leading to church and market , and for laying out new high-ways , and turning old high-ways , where it shall be needful , be it enacted and ordained by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that the vestry of each parish , or the major part of them shall , on every third monday in january before noon at their parish church , or other convenient place , choose four or more freeholders , each seized of at least thirty acres free-hold in right of himself or wife , to be surveyors for the year ensuing ; if the vestry neglects , each person absent or negligent shall forfeit forty shillings , and the justices at their next sessions being informed thereof , shall appoint four or more such surveyors as aforesaid , every person so chosen or appointed shall within ten days ( due notice being given him by the clerk of the vestry ) procure himself to be sworn before some justice in the said parish , diligently and faithfully to perform the said office for the year ensuing , and give a just account to the justices and vestry ( if required ) of what he shall receive , pay , or do , by virtue of his office , on penalty of ten pounds sterling . that the surveyor being sworn as aforesaid , shall within sixteen days after their having viewed and considered the high-ways and bridges , inform the justices and vestry of the defects , wants , and alterations needful in the same , to the end ( as they are hereby empowered ) the said justices and vestry may lay a tax of such money , labour , or other things , as to them shall seem convenient and necessary , which if the justices and vestry shall not do before the last day of february in each year , then the said surveyor shall make such tax in writing , which being confirmed by any two justices in the said parish , shall stand good till some complaint be made at the quarter-sessions in that parish , and the justices then and there to confirm or alter the same without appeal from thence . that the high-ways be sixty foot wide in standing wood , forty foot where the wood is onely on one side , and twenty four foot in open ground , and that the surveyors have power to cut down , dig up or remove as well all sorts of trees , bushes , prickle , fences , rails , gates or inclosures , or other thing or things , as may any ways straighten , hurt , hinder , or incommode the high-ways , as also to dig for stone or gravel , clay , marl , sand or earth in any land not planted or inclosed , as yard or garden to a house , or to press any cart , carriage , workman , or other thing fit to be employed in the high-ways for such reasonable satisfaction to the parties concerned , as such surveyor can agree for , and in case of disagreement , such as the next , or any justice in the parish shall appoint . provided nevertheless , that where gates are , or shall be erected , of at least ten foot between post and post , or the high-way streightned by inclosure on both sides , but the way so well kept by causey-way or otherwise , that two carriages may meet and pass each other , and the ground as firm as is necessary , then the said surveyors shall forbear to pull down or remove such gates or fences , any thing herein seeming to the contrary notwithstanding . but if any person shall again erect , or cause any nusance , in the high-ways , which was by the surveyor removed , for such offence he or they shall forfeit five pounds . and in case where a new path or road is wanting , or where old ways may , with more conveniency be turned or altered , or where to some plantation or plantations no high-ways are yet laid out , to lead them into the high roads which go towards the market or church , or to any convenient harbour or landing-place , fitting for receiving a shoar or shipping off any goods , upon notice thereof given to any justice of the peace , he shall on request issue his warrant to the next constable in the said parish to summon a jury to meet at some convenient place and day , therein to be mentioned , to view and lay out , or alter such path or roads , which said justice is hereby impowered to administer an oath to the said jury , that according to the best of their skills and judgments , and with most conveniency to the publick , and least prejudice or damage to any particular person , they will lay out such way , which having done , the surveyor is to make return thereof to the justices at the next quarter-sessions of the parish , where the same way is , as well under his own , as the hand of the jurors , by whose oath the same as laid out to the end the same may be there filed , or recorded , and after known for a publick high-way . and if the said surveyor shall neglect his duty therein , he shall forfeit twenty pounds . and be it further enacted , that every vestry with consent of the justices , may agree for two years with particular persons for their parts and proportion of the ways by them to be cleared , as also with the surveyors what part of the parish they shall look after , and such agreements shall discharge the parties from other duties , than what is agreed for , as also the surveyor from looking after any other part than what is allotted him , and such justices and vestry-men are to record all their doings touching the ways in the vestry-book , which record in all places shall be deemed good evidence . and the said surveyors may respectively issue their warrants to the constable or tything-men to warn in workers , or to levy money according to the tax or rate made as aforesaid , and whosoever shall fail to send in his proportion of workers , with such tools as shall be convenient , shall for every head pay three shillings per day upon conviction , to be recovered before any justice of the peace by the surveyor . and if any justice neglect his duty touching the premisses or any part thereof , he shall forfeit ten pounds , and every vestry-man , surveyor , constable , tything-man , juror , or clerk of the vestry , who shall neglect his or their duty , where no penalty is before set , shall respectively forfeit five pounds for each offence . all which said forfeitures shall be to the use of the high-ways , and if not exceeding forty shillings , to be recovered by action of debt before any justice of the peace , if above forty shillings , in any court of record , where no essoign , protection , or wager of law shall be allowed . an act appointing the prices of meat . be it enacted and ordained by governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same , that no person or persons upon any pretence whatsoever shall presume to ask , demand , and receive for fresh beef , mutton , or goat , any more , greater or higher rate or price than hereafter is mentioned , viz. for fresh beef or goat four pence per pound , and mutton six pence , to be weighed without the heads , entrails , or feet , and that the sewet be sold at no higher rates than the meats aforesaid , under penalty of forfeiting twenty pounds currant money of this island , for every time they shall take , ask , or receive any higher price , and if any person or persons shall refuse to sell any beef , mutton , or goat by weight , he or they for every such offence shall forfeit twenty pounds currant money of this island . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that any person whatsoever that shall destroy any turtle nests , or take away any of the eggs thereof upon any bay or place within this island , where the turtle shall lay , shall forfeit forty shillings currant money of this island , or receive so many lashes on the bare back , as any justice shall order , not exceeding nine and thirty for every such offence . the one third part of all the aforesaid penal sums of money shall be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors for and towards the support of the government of this island , and the contingent charges thereof , one third to the church-wardens for the use of the parish , the other third to the informer , to be recovered in any court of record within this island by bill , plaint or information , in which no essoign , wager of law , or protection shall be allowed . an act angainst blasphemy , and for preventing disorders in ale-houses , taverns , and victualling-houses . be it enacted and ordained by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that no person or persons whatsoever in this island be enabled to have and receive any license or licenses from the governour for the time being to retail any strong liquors , unless they bring yearly certificates under the hands of two of the justices of the peace living in the same precincts , where the said person keeps , or intends to set up his house of entertainment , and have also given good security in the secretaries office of one hundred pounds that he shall suffer no disorders to be committed in his said house , or any thing there done contrary to the laws of england or of this island , and that no persons whatsoever presume to sell rum or rum-punch or any other mixture of rum without license first obtained from the justices in sessions , and security given to the clerk of the peace of the said precincts , under the penalty of forty shillings for every such offence . provided always , and it is hereby further enacted and ordained , that whatsoever person so licensed as aforesaid , shall entertain or receive any one in their houses , to tipple or drink in the time of divine worship or service , shall forfeit twenty shillings for every such offence , and the person or persons there so found , shall pay each of them five shillings , both which forfeitures shall be levyed by distress by warrant from any justice of the peace within this island , and whosoever shall by publick and open profaness or blasphemy dishonour almighty god , and be thereof duly convicted in the supream court of judicature , shall be fined twenty pounds currant money of this island , or more , at the discretion of the court for every such offence , and that such as are either servants or not worth so much , shall be lyable to such corporeal punishment , as the judges shall think meet , loss of life and limb only excepted . and it is further enacted , that if any of the said persons , so having received licenses as aforesaid , shall keep or suffer any common gaming in their houses , they shall forfeit ten pounds currant money of this island ; and whosoever shall by false dice or other fraud or deceit win any money or other things shall forfeit treble the value thereof , being convicted by verdict , confession , or otherwise , and that no sum exceeding forty shillings won at any game , or betting on the side of any , shall be recoverable , and all bonds , contracts , and securities whatsoever for above the sum aforesaid , won as aforesaid , shall be void . provided nevertheless , that nothing herein contained shall be deemed or construed to hinder or abridge any maker of rum , but that by himself , servants , or others , he may vend and sell the same pure and unmixt , any thing in this act to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding . provided also , that the aforesaid penalties mentioned in this act , and not declared where they shall be recovered , or how disposed of , be one half to our soveraign lord the king , for and towards the support of the government of this island , and the contingent charges thereof , the other to the informer , who shall sue for the same in any court of record within this island , wherein no essoign , protection , injunction , or wager of law shall be allowed . an act impowering justices of the peace to decide differences not exceeding forty shillings . whereas , many inconveniencies may arise unto the inhabitants of this island by being vexed and troubled with suits at law for small and trivial injuries , debts , and trespasses , wherein the accustomary fees and charges usually exceed the original debt and damages ; for prevention whereof , be it enacted and ordained by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same , that all manner of debts , trespasses , and other matters , not exceeding the value of forty shillings , wherein the tithes of lands are not concerned , shall and may be heard , adjudged , and determined by any of his majesties justices of the peace of this island , within their respective precincts without appeal , which said justices are hereby required upon complaint made , to grant a warrant or summons against the person complained of , thereby requiring him to appear and answer the said complaint , and in case of non-appearance , to issue out a warrant of contempt directed to the constable to bring the contemner before him , as well to answer the said contempt , as the plaintiffs action , and may if he see cause , fine the contemner , provided the said fine exceed not ten shillings , to be for the use of the parish where such offence shall be committed , and after judgment given in either case , may grant a warrant of distress directed to the constable to levy the said fine , debt , damages and charges upon the defendants goods and chattels , who by virtue thereof shall expose the same to sale , returning the overplus , if any be , to the defendant , and for want of such distress , to take the defendants body into custody , and him carry and convey to the common gaol of the precincts , there to remain till he shall have satisfied the said debt and charges , and it shall be lawful for the justice of peace to receive for each warrant one shilling and three pence , and no more , and for the constable for serving of each . warrant the like sum , together with six pence for each mile he shall be compelled to travel in execution of the premisses , provided the whole exceed not five shillings , and the justice is hereby required to keep a record of all such proceedings , under the penalty of ten shillings , the one half to be for the poor of the parish , and the other half to the informer , to be recovered as aforesaid . and whereas the uncertainty of the expiration of laws heretofore made for the better government of this his majesties island may hereafter create some doubts and disputes concerning the validity of the several judgments made and given by the several judges and justices of the peace within this island , as also all the proceedings of the military officers upon the same ; for prevention whereof , be if further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that all and every judgment and judgments made or given by any of the judges or justices of the peace within this his majesties island upon or by vertue of any of the aforesaid laws , and all other proceedings whatsoever , and all and every act or acts , thing or things done or acted thereupon are hereby ratified , confirmed , and adjudged valid and lawful to all intents and purposes whatsoever , and all and every judge and judges of the several courts , the several justices of the peace , the military officers , and all other persons whatsoever within this his majesties island , that have any ways acted by or under the authority of the aforesaid laws , or any of them , are hereby for ever saved and kept harmless , and indempnified against all manner of persons whatsoever , and if any person shall be sued or any ways molested by reason thereof , it shall be lawful for him or them so sued or molested to plead the general issue , and give this act in evidence , any law , custom , or usage to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding . an act rating liquors sold by retail . be it enacted and ordained by the governour , council and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that from and after publication hereof , all vintners and tavern-keepers , or any other person or persons who do or shall utter or sell by way of retail madera wines or brandy , and shall presume by any means directly or indirectly to take or receive above the rates hereafter mentioned for the aforesaid liquors , viz. for madera wine sifteen pence the quart , and brandy two shillings and six pence the quart , and so proportionably for a greater or lesser quantity , shall forfeit the sum of forty shillings for every such offence , to be levyed by warrant from any of his majesties justices of the peace of the precincts , where the fault is committed , on the goods and chattels of any person or persons so offending , the one half of which forfeiture shall be to the church-wardens for the use of the parish , the other to the informer , any law , custom , or usage to the contrary notwithstanding . an act for compensation of mr. nicholas scarlet . whereas , nicholas scarlet , gent. hath a long time lain under divers great and dangerous wounds received in the publick service of this island in pursuit of several rebellious negroes , by reason of a command from his superiour officers , whereby he hath been a long time hindred from all manner of employment , to his great suffering , damage and charge , as also to the loss of the use of one of his limbs , as hath sufficiently been made appear to us ; to the end therefore that all persons , of the like quality and forwardness to serve the countrey , may , for the future , receive due encouragement , be it therefore enacted by the governour , council and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that the said nicholas scarlet shall , in compensation of the said loss and damage , have and receive out of his majesties publick revenue a yearly salary of ten pounds during his residence in this island , which said sum of money is hereby appointed to be paid by the receiver for the time being out of the treasury when demanded , upon penalty of twenty pounds , the one half to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island , and the contingent charges thereof , and the other half to the party aggrieved , to be recovered in any court of record within this island , by bill , plaint or information , where no essoign , protection , or wager of law shall be allowed . an act for the restraining and punishing privateers and pirates . whereas nothing can more contribute to his sacred majesties honour , than that such articles as are concluded and agreed on in all treaties of peace , should by all his majesties subjects according to their duty , be most inviolably preserved and kept in and over all his majesties dominions and territories , and whereas not only against such treaties of peace made by his majesty with his allies , but also contrary to his majesties royal proclamation , several of his subjects have and do continually go off from this his majesties island of jamaica into foreign princes services , and sail under their commissions , contrary to their duty and good allegiance , and by fair means cannot be restrained from so doing . be it therefore enacted by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same , that from and after publication hereof , it shall be felony for any person , which now doth , or within four years last past heretofore hath , or hereafter shall inhabit or belong to this island , to serve in america in an hostile manner , under any foreign prince , state , or potentate , or any employed under any of them against any other foreign prince , state , or potentate , in amity with his majesty of great britain , without special license for so doing , under the hand and seal of the governour or commander in chief of this island for the time being , and that all and every such offender , or offenders contrary to the true intent of this act , being thereof duly convicted in his majesties supream court of judicature within this island , to which court authority is hereby given to hear and to determine the same , as in other cases of felony , shall suffer pains of death without benefit of the clergy . provided nevertheless , that this act , nor any thing therein contained , shall extend to any person or persons , which now are or have been in the service or employment of any foreign prince , state , or potentate whatsoever , that shall return to this island , and leave and desert such service and employment before the first day of january next ensuing , rendring themselves to the governour or commander in chief for the time being , and giving him such security as he shall appoint for their future good behaviour , and also that they shall not depart this island without the governours ticket . and for the better and more speedy execution of justice upon such , who having committed treason , piracies , felonies , and other offences upon the sea , shall be apprehended in , or brought prisoners to this island , be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all treasons , felonies , piracies , robberies , murthers , or confederacies committed , or that hereafter shall be committed upon the sea , or in any haven , creek , or bay , where the admiral hath jurisdiction , shall be inquired , tryed , heard , determined , and judged within this island , in such like form , as if such offence had been committed in and upon the land , and to that end and purpose commissions shall be had under the kings great seal of this island , directed to the judge or judges of the admiralty of this island for the time being , and to such other substantial persons , as by his majesties governour or commander in chief of this island for the time being , shall be named or appointed , which said commissioners , or such a quorum of them , as by such commission shall be thereunto authorized , shall have full power to do all things in and about the inquiry , hearing , determining , adjudging , and punishing of any of the crimes and offences aforesaid , as any commissioners to be appointed by commission under the great seal of england , by virtue of a statute made in the twenty eighth year of the reign of king henry the eighth , are impowered to do and execute within the kingdom of england , and that the said offenders , which are , or shall be apprehended in , or brought prisoners to this island , shall be liable to such order , process , judgments , and execution , by virtue of such commission to be grounded upon this act , as might be awarded or given against them , if they were proceeded against within the realm of england , by virtue of any commission grounded upon the said statute . and all tryals heretofore had against such criminal or criminals before any judge or judges by virtue of such commission or authority at any time heretofore granted , and all proceedings thereupon , are hereby ratified , confirmed , and adjudged lawful , and all such judges , with all and every the inferiour officers , that have acted thereby , are hereby indemnified to all intents and purposes whatsoever , and in case they , or any of them , shall at any time hereafter be sued , vexed , molested or troubled for any such their proceedings as aforesaid , he or they so sued , vexed , or molested shall plead the general issue and give this act in evidence , any law , statute , custom or usage to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all and every person or persons , that shall any way knowingly entertain , harbour , conceal , trade or hold any correspondence , by letter or otherwise with any person or persons , that shall be deemed or adjudged to be privateers , pirates , or other offenders within the construction of this act , and that shall not readily endeavour to the best of his or their power to apprehend or cause to be apprehended such offender or offenders , shall be liable to be prosecuted , as accessaries and confederates , and to suffer such pains and penalties , as in such case by law is provided . and for the better and more effectual execution of this act be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all commission-officers , in their several precincts within this island , are hereby required and empowered upon his or their knowledge or notice given , that any privateers , pirates , or other persons suspected to be upon any unlawful design , are in any place within their respective precincts , to raise and levy such a number of well armed men , as he or they shall think needful for the seizing , apprehending and carrying to gaol all and every such person or persons , and in case of any resistance or refusal to yield obedience to his majesties authority , it shall be lawful to kill or destroy such person or persons , and all and every person or persons that shall oppose or resist , by striking or firing upon any of the commanded parties , shall be deemed , taken , and adjudged as felons without benefit of the clergy , and every such officer that shall omit or neglect his duty herein shall forfeit fifty pounds currant money of this island for every such offence , to be recovered in any of his majesties courts of record within this island , by bill , plaint , or information , wherein no essoign , wager of law , or protection shall be allowed ; one moyety thereof to be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island and the contingent charges thereof , and the other moyety to the informer , and all and every person or persons , that upon orders given him or them shall refuse to repair immediately with his or their arms well fixed , and ammunition , to such place or places as shall be appointed by the said officer , and not readily obey his commands in the execution of the premisses , shall be liable to such fine or corporeal punishment , as by a regimental court marshal shall be thought fit . provided further , that the governours assent to the passing of this or any other act , shall not extend , or be construed to extend to the determining of this present sessions of the assembly . an act ascertaining the quit-rents and manner of receipt thereof . be it enacted and ordained by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same , that a patent sealed under the great seal of this island , and recorded in the office of inrolments established in this island shall evidence the patentee or patentees just right and title to all and every parcel of lands , house or houses , tenements or other things in the said patent granted , and be a good bar to the right and title of his majesty , his heirs and successors : and to the end his majesties grants may not be hindred , delayed , or obstructed , the keeper of the seal , or chancellor for the time being , shall and is hereby obliged the next tuesday before each grand court to cause all such grants and patents , as are in the office , to be sealed at st. jago de la vega , and all inferiour officers , who are concerned in drawing and passing the same , are then and there likewise to be ready to do their duty . and forasmuch as all titles of land are derived from his majesty , and the land hath been laid out , and patents made by his majesties officers , in which many errors or mistakes may have happened , which according to the strict rules of law , might make many grants void in all , or in part , be it therefore enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all lands granted or hereafter to be granted by his majesty , his heirs or successors , upon surveys made or to be made , be for ever good to the patentee , and to those to whom the right of the patentee shall come , for all lands comprized within the survey or bounds , any misnomer , misbounding or mistaking of quantity , or other error notwithstanding , against his majesty , his heirs and successors , or any other person or persons claiming under him or them for ever , and that all such grants shall be taken as strongly against his majesty , his heirs and successors , as the grants of any other person or persons should or ought to be taken against him or them , or his or their heirs or assigns . provided nevertheless , and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that where either his majesty or the patentee are aggrieved by mistake in quantity , a re-survey shall be made , by one surveyor indifferently sworn between the king and patentee , or who claimeth in his right , before any of his majesties justices of the peace , upon which re-survey a confirmation of the former grant shall issue under the seal of this island reciting the error , and reserving for the future the same rent mentioned in the said grant according to the just quantity found by such re-survey , for which confirmation the chancellor shall receive ten shillings , and the clerk of the patents eight shillings and no more , to be paid as all other charges of the said re-survey by the party requiring the same , but no retrospect shall be had to what rent ought to have been paid , be the quantity more or less , any thing in this act contained to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that if any dispute shall ever arise upon any survey , wherein the survey or plot given into the patent-office shall vary from the real run and marked lines , in all such disputes the judges before whom the same shall happen , shall adjudge the real run and marked lines , which are proved before them to be run and marked , to be the bounds of the lands granted , any law , custom , or usage to the contrary notwithstanding . and whereas there have been uncertainties and disputes in the payment of his majesties quit-rents reserved in the patents formerly granted , by reason of the words , manured and planted ; and whereas his said majesty hath been and now is graciously pleased , that whatsoever shall arise from the quit-rents , shall be applyed towards the support of the government , and defraying the contingent charges of this island , in consideration whereof , and to ascertain the same , be it enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that every parcel or parcels of land of what nature and quality soever granted and patented before the twenty fifth day of june , one thousand six hundred seventy and one , shall for arrears and growing rents pay for every thirty acres annually the sum of one shilling , and so proportionably for every parcel under one hundred acres , and for every hundred acres two shillings six pence , and proportionably for a greater quantity , and for all lands of what quality soever from the aforesaid time to the twelfth day of march one thousand , six hundred seventy and four , shall pay one half peny per acre , and so proportionably for a greater quantity ; and for foot-land , one half peny per foot for two sides of the square added together , and so proportionably for a greater or lesser quantity , as a certain established quit-rent and acknowledgment to his majesty , his heirs and successors for ever , any law , custom , or usage , or any thing contained in the said patents to the contrary notwithstanding . and for the more speedy and easie collecting of the said quit-rents , be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that the receiver of the quit-rents , or his lawful deputy shall twice every year ( to say ) after each feast of st. michael the arch-angel , and of the annunciation of the blessed virgin mary , keep an office in the town of st. jago de la vega , in the parish of st. catharines , and in the town of port royal during the space of one month at each place , and then and there to receive the quit-rents from the persons concerned , which said office he shall attend from the hours of eight to eleven before noon , and from the hours of two to five in the afternoon , and upon receipt of his majesties quit-rents , thereof to acquit and discharge all persons , on the penalty of five pounds sterling , which said penalty shall be , the one half to his majesty , his heirs and successors for and towards the support of the government of this island and contingent charges thereof , and the other half to the informer , to be recovered in any court of record within this island , wherein no wager of law , essoign , protection or injunction shall be allowed . an act for preventing damages in plantations , preserving of cattle , and regulating hunting . be it enacted by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same , that all plantations bounding in savanna's , high-ways , watering-places , and all pastures made out of wood-land , shall make sufficient fences , which sufficient fences shall be judged by oath of three free-holders before any one of his majesties justices of the peace , which said free-holders shall be chosen , one by the party grieved , the other by the owner of the cattle , and the other by the justice of the peace , and if either of them do not appear , or refuse to make their choice , that then in such case the said justice shall name two , and what damage shall be done by any stock in any plantation so fenced as aforesaid , the said damage to be appraised upon the oath of the said three free-holders , and the owners of the said stock shall pay double the said damage so committed or done by their cattle , proof being made appear by the oath of one or more , to be recovered before any justice of the peace , if not exceeding forty shillings , if above , in any court of record by action of debt . and it is further enacted and provided by the authority aforesaid , that no person or persons whatsoever shall kill or destroy any cattle , horse , mare , mule , or asinego , but he , she , or they who shall kill or destroy any of the afore-mentioned stock , shall forfeit for each they shall kill or destroy the sum of fifteen pounds currant mony , to be recovered by action of debt in any court of record within this island by the owner or proprietor of the said beast . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all owners of neat cattle shall keep one white man at each respective pen , and at all pens whereunto belongs above two hundred cattle , the owner of such pen shall keep two white men , upon pain of forfeiting ten pounds for every white man , that shall be wanting as before , for the space of three months , to be recovered in any court of record by action of debt , the one half to the parish for the use of the poor , the other moyety to the informer , or him that sues for the same . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all persons and owners of cattle , that shall fail to pen their cattle once in three nights , at the l●●st , that all such cattle doing damages shall pay double the damage , to be recovered as aforesaid . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all strays of any sort of cattle , where ever they shall be found and taken up , shall belong to the proprietor of the ground where they are accustomed to feed , provided the said proprietor cause the said stray or strays to be cryed by the common cryer three distinct court days in the court of the said precinct , describing all the marks of the said stray , with the age and kind ; and further that the said proprietors do turn loose again the said stray , to continue in the same feeding ground where the same was accustomed to feed , and tying a withe about the neck of the said stray ( which shall be a common mark for strays ) and in that manner to continue one whole year from the first taking up or penning of the same . provided further , that if in the mean time no person shall challenge or claim the same , that then the property of all such strays remain to the proprietor of the ground as before , they giving satisfaction for taking up the said stray . provided always , that this act extend not to any ear-marked or burnt-marked beast , horse , mare , colt , or any other sort of cattle , but all such shall belong to the owners or proprietors of the same , if claimed at any time after the expiration of the year . it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that the clerks of each respective courts of record in this island are hereby empowered to make entry and toll any sort of cattle , that shall be sold from one person to another , taking as near description of the several marks , natural or otherwise , as can be , and vouched by two sufficient persons known to the clerk , which entry or toll shall be good against any former sale or bargain , or any other title whatsoever , except in all such cases where the provost marshal or his deputy hath levied the same by execution , and the clerk of the said court shall take twelve pence for each such entry and for keeping a record of the same , and no more . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that no person whatsoever shall presume to carry any fire , or smoak tobacco in any savanna or plantation , or high-ways whatsoever , under the penalty of ten shillings for each time they shall so offend , and be further liable to pay all damages that shall accrue to any person or persons by means of the same , to be recovered ( if not exceeding forty shillings ) before any justice of the peace , if exceeding forty shillings , by action of debt in any court of record within this island : and if the person so offending , be not able to make satisfaction , then the said person shall be whipped for every such offence at the discretion of any one justice of the peace . provided . that this clause extend not to owners of land , to carry fire in their own plantations , or burn their own savanna , yet to be liable as before , if thereby they injure or burn any other persons savannas , or plantations , and that all penalties for carrying of fire , shall belong to the person that sues for the same . and whereas it is found by experience that several common drivers of cattle , or horse-catchers do frequently ride and drive gangs of mares and other cattle from off their own feeding ground or pasture , whereby those that are big , cast their young , and young ones are often separated from their dams , and do likewise often deface the marks of such cattle and horses , or new mark them for themselves or others with wrong marks , to the great damage of all such proprietors ; for prevention whereof , be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that no person or persons whatsoever shall hereafter presume to drive or ride in any savanna as a common horse-catcher after any horses or mares without having first given security for their honesty , and obtained leave from the proprietor or proprietors of such savanna's or the major part of them , under the penalty of twenty pounds , to be recovered as aforesaid , one third part whereof shall be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island and the contingent charges of the same , one third part to the proprietor or proprietors of such savanna's where the offence shall be committed , the remaining third to the informer , or he that shall sue for the same . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that if any such common driver or horse-catcher , or any other person employed by or for him or them , shall presume to sell or barter any horse , mare , or colt , or other cattle , but such as he shall bring two sufficient free-holders of the place where he doth inhabit , or other good sufficient evidence to vouch before the clerk of some court of record within the precincts where they shall be sold or bartered as aforesaid , that he bred them , or otherwise came lawfully possessed of them , under the penalty of fifty pounds , to be recovered and disposed of as aforesaid . and whosoever shall buy , barter , or bargain with any such known horse-catcher or driver , for any cattle or horses without the same be first vouched as aforesaid , he , she , or they so offending shall for every such offence forfeit and pay the sum of twenty pounds , to be recovered and disposed of as aforesaid . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that if any driver or horse-catcher shall at any time hereafter fraudulently or designedly put any false burnt mark , ear-mark , or any other marks , or deface any old mark , he or they shall for such offence be guilty of felony . it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that no person or persons that are keepers or owners of goats , shall suffer their goats to feed in any persons land except their own , and if any do suffer the same to feed in any persons land , it shall be deemed trespass , and the owner of the land shall recover in any court of record full costs of suit in the said action , besides what damage shall be given by the jury . be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that no person whatsoever shall be capable of hunting with any gang of dogs in this island , that is not a planter in it , and hath not at least five acres of land planted , and that any person that shall presume to hunt any gang of dogs within this island , being not qualified as aforesaid , shall forfeit for every such offence his gang of dogs , and the sum of ten pounds sterling , to be recovered in any court of record within this island , by bill , plaint , or information , the one moyety or half part of all such forfeitures shall be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for the support of the government and contingent charges thereof , and the other moyety shall be to the informer , or any person that shall sue for the same . and it shall not be lawful for any planter or planters in this island to own any hunting gang of dogs which shall not properly belong to themselves , their mates in planting , or hunted by their servants , under the penalty of ten pounds sterling for each time he or they shall so offend , to be recovered in manner and form aforesaid , and to be disposed of as aforesaid . and it is further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that if any hunting gang of dogs shall kill or maim any tame stock belonging to any planter or person whatsoever , or do him or them any prejudice or damage , the party so damnified , lift the damage amount to not above forty shillings , satisfaction for the same shall be recovered by warrant from any justice of the peace , but if it amount to more than forty shillings , the person or persons so injured shall sue for the same at common law. and if any person shall kill or maim any manner of tame stock , as sheep , hogs , or goats , either by hunting or otherwise , and shall not forthwith discover the same to the next justice or constable , to the end the damage may be known and recovered , as aforesaid , such offender killing , maiming , or injuring any such tame stock , and not discovering it as aforesaid , shall pay five pounds for every default , besides damages to be recovered by the party injured in any court of record . it is further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that no person whatsoever shall hunt any gang of dogs within four miles of any craw● or settlement ( except in his own land , or leave from the proprietor of the same , upon pain of ten pounds sterling , and that no person or persons whatsoever shall set any snare or engine in any place whatsoever ( his planted ground only excepted ) under penalty of forty shillings for every time any person shall so offend in either of the premisses , to be recovered as aforesaid , and disposed of as aforesaid , and to pay all other damages that shall accrue by the same . an act securing the purchasers of thomas bun's land upon port royal. whereas , one thomas bun , late of this island , in the fourteenth year of his majesties reign , patented a certain parcel of land on port royal , and after that , constituted and appointed one martin vanolphin his attorney , thereby giving him full power and authority for him , and in his name , to bargain and sell all and singular the lands and tenements of the said thomas bun , and that he the said martin vanolphin , in pursuance of the aforesaid authority , did for a valuable consideration , well and truly paid to the aforesaid thomas bun , bargain and sell the aforesaid parcel of land unto william parker , esquire , and robert swanley , and that a moyety of the said land was sold by the said swanley to one thomas tothill , deceased , whose estate real was , in pursuance of an act of this island , exposed to sale , and sold for and towards the satisfaction of the just debts of the said thomas tothill to sir charles modyford , baronet , and the whole purchased as aforesaid , sold by the said sir charles modyford , baronet , and william parker , esq to edward yeomans , esq for a valuable consideration , and the aforesaid letter of attorney , through the ignorance and neglect of those times , not proved and recorded , as the law of this island now requires , to the intent therefore that the several purchasers may for ever hereafter be quieted in their several purchases , and secured in their titles and covenants , and a speedy improvement made by building thereon . be it therefore enacted and ordained by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that the sales made as aforesaid by martin vanolphin to william parker , esquire , and robert swanley , and the sale or sales of them and either of them unto any other person or persons whatsoever , are and shall be deemed and adjudged good and effectual in the law to all intents , constructions , and purposes whatsoever , as if the said thomas bun himself had , by his own deed or bargain and sale , actually and really sold and conveyed the same , and all and singular the land sold and conveyed , as aforesaid , be and remain to the heirs and assigns of such purchaser or purchasers , their heirs and assigns for ever , as shall claim by , from and under the title or purchase of the said sir charles modyford , baronet , and the said william parker , esq any law or custom , usage or pretence of right whatsoever to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding . an act encouraging the importation of white servants . forasmuch as it is provided in an act of this countrey , intituled , an act for regulating servants , for the strengthening and better defence of this his majesties island , every master and owner of slaves shall have such quantity of white servants proportionable to the number of slaves as is therein directed , and as by the said act doth more plainly appear ; and to the intent also all duo encouragement may be given merchants , masters , and importers of white servants to bring the same , and may not then be discouraged nor their servants lie upon their hands for want of buyers , be it enacted by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same , that no merchant , master , or importer of white servants , shall presume to sell any white servant or servants , before they have been ten days imported , under the penalty of ten pounds for every such servant so sold , the one moyety to be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island and the contingent charges thereof , the other moyety to the informer , to be recovered by bill , plaint , or information in any court of record within this island , wherein no essoign , protection , or wager of law shall be allowed . provided nevertheless , that for the ten days after importation of any such white servants , as abovesaid , the factor or seller shall pay the master for their diet aboard the ship , nor shall they be removed by the said master from thence before the ten days be past , under the penalty aforesaid , to be recovered and disposed of as aforesaid . and be it likewise enacted by the authority aforesaid , that whatsoever master or commander of any ship or vessel , that shall bring in or import into this island to the number of fifty white male servants , and due proof upon oath being thereof made before the naval officer ( who is hereby empowered to administer the same ) shall for that voyage be altogether freed and exempted from paying any port-charges for the said ship or vessel , wherein the said servants shall be imported , any other custom or law to the contrary notwithstanding . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that any debt or debts contracted for any servant or servants sold within this island , shall or may be recovered by warrant from any justice of the peace in the same manner as is provided in the act empowering justices of the peace to decide differences not exceeding forty shillings , any law , custom , or usage heretofore to the contrary notwithstanding . and it is also hereby enacted by the authority aforesaid , that from and after the twenty fifth day of march next ensuing , no person or persons whatsoever , employing themselves in the trades or exercises of coopers or porters within this island shall use any negro slave or slaves in their said trades or occupations , under the penalty of twenty pounds for every such offence , to be recovered and disposed of as aforesaid . provided also , that nothing be herein construed to prohibit any master or owner of any sugar-work within this island from making cask at their respective plantations , or other convenient place , as heretofore , any thing in this act to the contrary notwithstanding . an act for registring of deeds and patents . be it enacted by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that a deed in due form of law made and within three months after the date thereof acknowledged by the party or parties that grant the same , or proved by the oath of one sufficient witness or more before the governour , or some one of the judges of the courts of this island , and the same recorded at length in the office of enrolments , which said office shall always be kept at st. jago de la vega within the said three months , shall be valid to pass the same without livery , seizin , attornment , or any other act or ceremony in the law whatsoever , and that no deed hereafter made without such acknowledgment or proof and enrolment shall be sufficient to pass away any free-hold or inheritance , or to grant any lease for above the space of three years . provided nevertheless , that any old deeds or conveyances heretofore made for lands or houses , and omitted to be recorded upon being acknowledged or proved , and at any time after the making hereof , recorded in the said office of enrolments , shall be effectually valid and of force , but if it shall happen that any second bill of sale or conveyance for a valuable consideration be made by the said vendor or his heirs for the same land or houses , or any part thereof , and the same be duly executed and recorded , then it is hereby declared , that the last vendee shall have and enjoy the said land or houses , any thing in this proviso or otherwise to the contrary notwithstanding . and if any vendee hath omitted to execute and inroll his deed within the time as aforesaid , but shall at any time afterwards have done the same , no second sale being made by the first vendor , his heirs or executors , the same shall nevertheless be good to the said vendee , his heirs and executors , and a perpetual bar against the first vendor , his heirs and executors , any thing in this act or any other to the contrary notwithstanding . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all deeds and conveyances granted and made out of this island , and remitted hither , being proved before the governour or any of the judges of the courts of common-pleas as aforesaid , and all those deeds and conveyances where any granter or conveyancer shall personally appear in his majesties court held before the lord mayor and aldermen of the city of london for the time being , and shall then and there own and acknowledge such deed , grant , or conveyance to be his act and deed , and an attest thereof be made under the seal of the mayorality of the said city , and the same be recorded in the aforesaid office within six months of the arrival of the ship that brought the same , shall to all intents and purposes whatsoever be as valid , as if the said deeds or conveyances had been here made , acknowledged , proved , and recorded according to the form and time herein before appointed . provided nevertheless , that if any person here lawfully empowered , shall in pursuance of that power make sale of any lands or free-hold to any person whatsoever within this island , and the deeds thereof be duly proved and recorded according to the true meaning of this act , before any conveyance from the proprietor or proprietors of the same land or freehold or any part thereof be here produced , proved , and recorded as aforesaid the said deed so made and passed here shall stand good and effectual in the law to all intents and purposes whatsoever . and it is hereby further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that any mortgage of any lands , tenements , real or personal estates whatsoever within this his majesties island , having received full satisfaction and payment of all such sum and sums of money as are really due to him by such mortgage , shall at the request of the mortgager , enter satisfaction upon the margent of such mortgage recorded or to be recorded in the office of enrolments , which shall for ever hereafter discharge , defeat , and release the same , and shall likewise perpetually bar all actions brought , or to be brought thereupon in any court of record within this island , and if such mortgagee shall not within three months after request and tender made for his reasonable charges repair to the office of enrolments , and there make such acknowledgment as aforesaid , he , she , or they so refusing shall for every such offence forfeit and pay unto the party or parties aggrieved the sum of fifty pounds currant money of this island , to be recovered in any of his majesties courts of record within this island , by bill , plaint , or information , wherein no essoign , wager of law , or protection shall be allowed . and be it further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that it shall and may be lawful for the judges before whom such acknowledgment of deeds or other writings are and shall be made , to demand and receive for every deed of the value of twenty pounds or more , ten shillings , and for every deed under the value of twenty pounds , five shillings , and no more , under the penalty of twenty pounds , the one half to be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island and the contingent charges thereof , and the other half to the informer , to be recovered as aforesaid . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that the clerk of the enrolments shall and may take and receive for enrolling and copying an ordinary deed , grant , or patent for one or more parcels of land , or any deed or conveyance not exceeding the length of such patent , five shillings ; for every deed exceeding the length aforesaid eight pence per sheet , accounting twenty lines to a sheet , and eight words to a line ; for every short writing not exceeding the length aforesaid , twelve pence ; for recording every plot , one shilling and three pence ; for searching the record , twelve pence ; and for ackowledging satisfaction in the margent of a mortgage , recorded one shilling and three pence , and no more , under the penalty of ten pounds to the uses , and to be recovered as aforesaid . and be it likewise enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all patents already granted and not enrolled shall be enrolled in the office of enrolments within six months , and all patents hereafter to be granted shall be enrolled within six months after the sealing such patents , which enrolments , as likewise all such as are already there enrolled , shall be good and valid in the law notwithstanding any clause inserted in the said patents directing the contrary . and whereas it is most manifest , that the estates of several orphans have been preserved and vastly improved by being , during their minority , leased out by their guardians ; and whereas it may be disputable whether such leases are warranted by the laws of england . be it therefore enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that all leases heretofore made or granted , or that hereafter shall be made or granted of the estate of any orphan , by the respective guardian for any term of years , not exceeding the minority of such respective orphans , shall be good and valid in the law , any law , custom , or usage to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding . provided always , that this act or any thing therein contained , shall not extend to contradict or alter any power given or to be given by the parent to any guardians , or to give liberty for the future to any guardian to lease out the estate of any heiress for any longer term or time , than till she shall compleat the age of fourteen years . be it likewise enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that the clerk of the enrolments , or whosoever shall execute the said office for the time being , do find two sufficient sureties , with himself , to become bound to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , in a bond of the penalty of two thousand pounds for the true and faithful execution of the said office , and for keeping of the same in the town of st. jago de la vega as is herein before declared , and not elsewhere , which said bond shall be recorded in the supream court of judicature within this island , and be kept by the chief justice of the same for the time being , to be made use of according as is directed in an act , intituled , an act impowering the secretary to take security ; and whosoever after publication hereof shall officiate in the said office before he hath given such security as aforesaid , he or they so offending shall forfeit the sum of five hundred pounds , to be recovered by bill , plaint , or information in any of his majesties courts of record within this island , wherein no essoign , protection , or wager of law shall be allowed the defendant ; one moyety whereof shall be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island , and the contingent charges thereof , and the other moyety to him or them that shall prosecute the same . an act for the ferry between st. catharines and st. andrews . whereas , william parker , of the parish of st. andrews , esquire , hath at his particular charge found out and made a very convenient way between the salt and fresh river in the parish of st. andrews and st. catharines , which will be of great use and advantage to the whole island , in causing a more near and easie correspondence with the several precincts , and whereas the said william parker hath likewise set up and erected a ferry for the better accommodation of the said passage , and whereas the same cannot be maintained without great and constant charges , be it therefore enacted and ordained by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that the said william parker , his heirs and assigns be by this act impowered and authorized for the space and term of fourteen years from the making hereof , to ask , demand , sue for , recover , and receive as a duty and toll for the transporting of any person over the said ferry , seven pence half peny ; for every horse and man , fifteen pence ; for every grown beast , that hath no rider , seven pence half peny ; for every sheep , calf , or hog , six pence ; and that the said william parker , his heirs and assigns may and shall erect a tavern or victualling-house near the said ferry , and shall not be compelled to renew or pay any license money for the same . provided always , that if the said william parker or his assigns shall not finish and compleat the said way and passage within twelve months from and after the making of this act , and that in all places it be not less than eight foot broad , and that the same be always kept in good and sufficient repair , that the aforesaid limitation of the rates , which shall be paid by virtue of this act , or any letters patents granted for the same , shall cease , determine , and be utterly void . and be it further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that no other person whatsoever presume to erect , maintain , or keep a ferry or raft over the same rivers for the space or term of fourteen years from and after the making hereof , under the penalty of five hundred pounds currant money of this island , the one half to be for the use of our soveraign lord the king , for and towards the support of the government of this island and the contingent charges thereof , the other half for the use of the said william parker , his heirs or assigns , to be recovered by action of debt , bill , plaint , or information in his majesties supream court of judicature within this his majesties island , wherein no protection , essoign , injunction , or wager of law shall be allowed . an act impowering the church-wardens of st. catherines to receive twelve pence per tun , for all goods made up in cask that are landed on , or shipped from the bridg at passage fort for maintaining and repairing the same . whereas it is evident that the making and repairing the bridg at passage fort hath been very chargeble to the parish of st. catherines considering the said bridge is for the publick use of several parishes , in respect whereof some care ought to be taken for easing the said parish of the great charge they are at in maintaining the same , and that the several persons that make use of the said bridge , should proportionably pay towards the doing of it . be it therefore enacted by the governour , council and assembly , and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same , that from and after the making hereof , all goods whatsoever made up in cask , and that are landed either upon , or shipped from the said bridg shall pay twelve pence per tun , and so proportionably for a greater or lesser quantity . and it is enacted by the authority aforesaid , that the church-wardens of st. catherines for the time being shall take care that the bridg be kept in sufficient repair , and in case of their neglect therein , that then the aforesaid church-wardens shall forfeit respectively ten pounds , one half thereof to the informer , and the other half to the poor of the said parish to be recovered by bill , plaint or information in any court of record within this island , wherein no essoin , protection or wager of law shall be allowed . and it is further enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that the church-wardens of the said parish of st. catherines , are hereby empowered to appoint such person or persons as they shall think fit for collecting the aforesaid duty , and to employ the same to the use and behoof of the aforesaid parish , and if any person or persons shall refuse to pay the aforesaid duty , it shall be lawful for such collector as shall be appointed by the church-wardens aforesaid , to detain or keep in his possession the goods of the person or persons so refusing , until he or they shall have satisfied the same , as it is before expressed , any law , custom or usage to the contrary notwithstanding . an act for confirmation of pious , charitable and publick gifts and grants . to the intent that pious , charitable and publick gifts and grants , so necessary in new colony's to be encouraged and made good , may not be defeated , but may take effect according to the true intent and meaning of the donor or donors , devisor or devisors , notwithstanding any incapacity in the grantee or devisee , or those to whose use the same is granted or devised : be it therefore enacted and ordained by the governors , council and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that for and during the term and time of twenty years next ensuing , all gifts , grants , conveyances and devices of any houses , lands , tenements , rents , goods or chattels , to any good , pious , charitable or publick use or uses , as for the maintenance of lawful ministers , erecting or maintaining of churches , chappels , schools , universities , colledges , or other places for education of youth , or maintenance of men of learning , or any alms-houses or hospitals , or any other uses whatsoever , heretofore made and hereafter to be made within the time aforesaid , be and are hereby for ever confirmed and made good , according to the true intent and meaning of the donor or donors , grantor or grantors , devisor or devisors , the statute of mortmain , or any other statute , law , custom , or usage , to the contrary notwithstanding . provided nevertheless and it is hereby enacted and ordained that no gifts , grants or devise to any person or persons whatsoever for any superstitious use , or for maintenance of any minister or teacher whatsoever other then such as are lawfully ordained and allowed of by the church of england , be hereby confirmed and made good , any thing herein , or in any other act seeming to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding . an act declaring it high treason to counterfeit his majesties broad seal of this island . forasmuch as by the laws of this island no due and condign punishment hath been heretofore provided for such as shall falsify , forge or counterseit his majestys broad seal of this island , by reason whereof diverse evil disposed persons may be emboldened to perpetrate and commit the said offence , to the dishonour of his majesty , and the disinheriting of many of his majestys good subjects ; for prevention whereof , be it enacted and ordained by the governor , council and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that whosoever shall at any time hereaster falsify , forge or counterfeit his majesties broad seal of this island , that every such offence shall be deemed and judged high treason , and the offender or offenders therein , their councellers , ayders , abetters , or concealors being legally convicted thereof by the oaths of two lawful and credible witnesses upon trial or otherwise , then every such person and persons so offending as aforesaid shall be deem'd , declared and adjudged to be traytors and shall suffer and have such pains , penalties and forfeitures , as in like cases is ordained by the laws and statutes of his majesties kingdom of england . an act for clearing of rio cobre above and below caymana's . whereas the river called rio cobre , or the town river that passeth by st. jago de la vega is for several miles together about the caymana's stopt up , and hath wholly lost its old channel by means of the extraordinary floods , and by the abundance of trees and great quantitys of rubbish that hath been fallen above the said river , and upon other small rivers and gullies that fall into the same , whereby several plantations above and below the stop are upon small floods totally overflown and the stop by the means aforesaid daily encreaseth , so that it is evident , that in a short time , if no remedy be applyed , all the settlements and sugar-works thereabouts will be altogether lost , and what is good manurable land now will be turned into mere bog and morass , unfit to raise cattle , in , or convert to any other use , which will not only be a very great loss to to this island in general , but an utter ruin to the settlers in particular , who have expended great sums of money in planting thereabouts ; for prevention of so great and growing a mischief , be it therefore enacted and ordained by the governour , council and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that the governour or commander in chief for the time being do issue out a commission , in the nature of a commission of sewers under the broad seal of this island , thereby constituting and appointing twelve good and sufficient freeholders such as the governour or commander in chief as aforesaid , with the major part of the councel shall think fit to nominate and choose out of the parishes of st. catherines and st. andrews whereof five shall be a quorum and one of which five shall be a justice of the quorum , thereby giving and granting unto them or any five or more of them , full power and authority to assess , lay and receive a reasonable tax upon the lands or negroes , or upon both , as to the said commissioners or to any sive or more of them , shall seem just and convenient , of all persons whatsoever , who have any lands bounding any ways upon the said river , or upon whosoever shall receive advantage by clearing the said river , towards the clearing the old channell , or by turning the present course of it some other way , as upon a due survey of the premisses , shall seem most necessary , and which may be done with the least charge or prejudice to any person , and that the limits of the said commission to tax be and extend upon all the lands bounding on both sides of the river , from the plantation of henry molesworth esq commonly called cow-park unto the mouth of the said river where it falleth into the sea. and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that every such person as shall be named a commissioner in the said commission , after he hath knowledge thereof , shall take his corporal oath to lay a reasonable tax upon all the lands or negroes or upon both , as aforesaid , and that he will to the best of his skill and knowledg execute the said commission , which oath shall be taken before the governour or commander in chief , or before whom by the kings writ of dedimus potestatem , he shall appoint , or before the justices of the peace in the quarter sessions of the precincts , where any of the said commissioners shall reside , and whosoever of the said commissioners shall refuse to take the said oath shall forfeit the sum of five pounds ; and further , that whosoever shall wilfully fall any trees or cast or suffer to be cast the same , as also any pane , trash or other rubbish whatsoever , into the said river , or into any other river or gully that shall come into the same , whereby the said stop shall be any wise increased shall forfeit for every such offence the like sume of five pounds , both which forfeitures shall be one third part to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island , and the contingent charges thereof , and the other two thirds to whomsoever shall sue for the same towards the expence of preventing the overflowing of the said river , or towards the cutting of a new channel as aforesaid , and that each of the said commissioners , that shall meet and sit as aforesaid , shall for each day they so sit receive towards their expence five shillings per diem out of the said moneys to be levied as aforesaid . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that the said commissioners unto whom the commission as aforesaid shall be directed , or any five or more of them by vertue of the said commission , and of this present act shall have full power and authority to see , survey and view the said lands as do use to be o'reflown or any part of them , and all the said lands and negroes or their several owners who possess any lands or negroes within the bounds and limits aforesaid , to tax , rate , assess and charge with such sum and sums of money , as well for the present clearing of the old channel of the said river or for the making a new , if it shall be found necessary , as also for the keeping of it clear , after it shall be cleansed , or turned another way , and that the said commissioners or any five or more of them shall and may make and appoint diligent and able surveyors , collectors and overseers , and such other officers as they shall think fit to survey and oversee , and to levy , receive and lay out the money to be levied and expended in and abour the premisses , and to do and execute whatsoever shall be needful and expedient to be done therein according to the directions and orders , which shall from time to time be prescribed by the said commissioners or any five or more of them , and to allow them for their pains ; what shall be thought reasonable , and also that it shall and may be lawful for the said commissioners or any five or more of them by warrant under their hands and seal to command the taking of any cart , wain or negroes of any person within the bounds and limits of the said commission to help towards the clearing and removing the premisses , or toward the making a new channel , provided always that the owners of such carts , waines or negroes are not then making sugar , and that they take not above five negroes for a week out of a plantation , and a wain or cart for the same time and that the owners of such carts , waines or negroes , that shall be so employed be allowed out of their respective taxes what shall be thought reasonable for the hire of them , by the said commissioners as aforesaid . and be it enacted by the authority aforesaid , that it shall and may be lawful for the said commissioners or any five or more of them , by warrants under their hands and seals , to give authority to any person or persons to levy the said sums of money by them from time to time to be assessed upon the persons , lands or negroes , or upon all or any of them as aforesaid by distress and sale of the goods of such person or persons that shall not pay , or refuse to pay the same , and the overplus of the value rising upon such sale shall return to the owner of the same , and in default of such distress to be taken and sold , it shall and may be lawful for such collectors as shall be appointed by the said commissioners or any five or more of them to sue the factor or attorney of such person or persons as have lands lying within the limits aforesaid . and that all constables , marshals and tything-men be aiding and assisting in the levying all such taxes , as shall be assessed and levyed as aforesaid , and that they receive twelve pence in the pound for levying the same . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that if any action or suit shall be brought against any person or persons for taking any distress or sale of the same , or for turning the course , of the river through any persons land , or for cutting a new channel through the same , or any other thing done by the authority of this act , the defendant in any such action , or suit shall plead the general issue & give this act in evidence , whereupon issue shall be joyned , and the jury shall find for the defendant , and assess treble damage for his wrongful vexation in that behalf . provided always and it is the true intent and meaning of this act , that if any new channel for the conveyance of the said river be cut through any persons lands , all such damages as he receiveth thereby , shall be valued by the said commissioners or any five or more of them , and satisfaction shall be made to the owners of such lands out of the mony so to be assessed and levyed as aforesaid , and whatsoever land shall be recovered by means of draining , what now is overslown shall belong to the first proprietors ; and that this act continue in force for the term of five years and no longer , any thing in this act or any other seeming to the contrary notwithstanding . an act for regulating building , and preventing fire . be it enacted by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same , that no person whatsoever presume to build any house at port-royal within thirty foot of the high-water mark , and that when any house or houses are already built , or hereafter shall be built , on the harbor side nearer than thirty foot of the high-water mark , the wherry place only accepted , such house or houses so built or to be built , shall and are hereby adjudged , deemed and taken to be publick nusances , and the proprietor or proprietors of the same shall cause such house or houses built thereon to be taken down and removed within six months after conviction thereof , or otherwise build or cause to be built within six months a strong substantial wharf , so as the same may make a firm passage or way of thirty foot from high-water mark. provided that no house shall be built further northward on the harbour than major samuel bach and captain anthony swimmer on any land wharfed or to be wharfed out between fort james and fort carlisle , but that all land so made out of the harbour , or to be made , shall remain unbuilt on . and be it further enacted and declared by the aforesaid authority , that when any fire shall happen to break out either at port-royal , or at any other town already built , or which hereafter shall be built within this island , that two or three of the chief military or civil officers of the same town or parish shall or may and hereby are empowered to give all such directions for the pulling down or blowing up any such house or houses , that shall be by them adjudged meet to be pulled down or blown up for the stopping and preventing the further spreading of the same , and if it shall happen that the pulling down or blowing up any such house or houses by the directions aforesaid , shall be the occasion of stopping the said fire , or the fire stops before it comes to the same , then all and every owner of such house and houses shall receive satisfaction , and be paid for the same by the rest of the inhabitants , whose houses shall not be burnt , who are hereby empowered to make such rate or rates for the raising and levying such sum and sums of mony as shall be thought convenient by the justices and vestry men of the parish . provided always , that if that house where the fire shall first begin and break out shall be adjudged fit to be pull'd down to hinder the further spreading and increase of the same , that then the owners of such house shall receive no manner of satisfaction for the same , any thing in this act or any other act to the contrary notwithstanding . and whereas it may be doubted that the sea may encroach upon the southward part of the town of port-royal for the prevention whereof be it enacted by the authority aforesaid that all proprietors or owners of land or houses their factors , agents , attorneys , and guardians , of children , or any persons employed by them , or any of them that are interested on the southermost part of port-royal from fort rupert to the house and land now inhabited by one edward watkins , and known by the sign of the blew bell , be hereby enjoyned and obliged by this act within twelve months after publication hereof substantially to wharf out , and secure and keep secured their respective proportions of land joining on the sea , with substantial wharf of lasting timber at least one foot into the sea , under the penalty of ten pounds currant money of this island , for every year any such person or persons shall neglect the same , one third part thereof to our soveraign lord the king his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island and the contingent charges thereof , one third part to the church-wardens of the parish of port-royal for the time being , for the use of the poor , and the other third part to the informer or he that shall sue for the same , in any court of record within this island , wherein no essoin , protection , or wager of law shall be allowed . and that the owners or proprietors of such land or houses as aforesaid may be the better encouraged to wharf out as is before appointed , the street now called the church street , shall be no more deemed , accounted or taken for a street , but shall be added or annexed to each propriety and freehold in proportion to their respective interest bounding upon the same , for which consideration they are hereby obliged to leave a passage at least eighteen foot open to the sea. provided that nothing in any clause of this act shall permit and suffer any person or persons whatsoever , to build any house nearer to the church on the south-side , than what are already built for the whole length of the church aforesaid . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that no person or persons do fetch or cause to be fetched in any boat , vessel , or canoa , from the riffs or shoals , or dig up any stones below high-water mark from the eastermost and southermost parts of any of the cays lying off port-royal , and that no stones simall or great be fetched or taken up for balast or any other use from the eastermost side of the point on port-royal , so far as plum-point on penalty of ten pounds for every such offence , and that no commander and master of any ship or vessel cast or hoist out any ballast overboard into the water within the harbour of port-royal , or any other harbour or bay upon the penalty of twenty pounds for every such offence . and be it farther enacted , that no wreeks be laid up within the harbour of port-royal , or if any such decayd vessels or wreeks sink in the harbour by neglect of the owner or owners , possessor or possessors of the same , and not removed within one month after the sinking thereof , the said owner or owners , possessor or possessors of the same shall forfeit twenty pounds for every month such vessel shall so lye . provided also that the several fines , forfeitures and penalties before mentioned in this act , and not declared where they shall be recovered and how disposed of , be one third to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs & successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island & contingent charges thereof , one third to the church-wardens for the use of the respective parishes , and one third to the informer to be recovered by action of debt in any court of record within this island , where no essoins protection or wager of law shall be allowed , any law , custom or usage to the contrary notwithstanding . and forasmuch as great and diverse complaints are daily made by masters and commanders of ships and vessels trading to this island , that upon their ships or other vessels coming into any harbour of the same , the seamen belonging to the said ships or vessels do run on shore insomuch that they have not left on board a sufficient number of men to watch the said ships or vessels , be it therefore enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that all and every person or persons that shall receive or entertain any seaman or seamen belonging to any trading ships or vessels riding in any harbour of this island , after the ships bell ringing to set watch , at eight of the clock at night , every such person or persons receiving or entertaining of every such seaman as aforesaid , shall forfeit for the entertainment of every such seaman , the sum of forty shillings , one half to the poor of the parish , where the offence is or shall be committed , and the other half to the master or commander that shall prosecute for the same , to be recovered by a warrant from a justice of the peace , as in cases of debt not exceeding forty shillings . an act for the maintenance of ministers , and the poor , and erecting and repayring of churches . for raising a convenient maintenance for the ministers and poor , and erecting and repairing of churches within this island , be it enacted by the governour , councel and assembly , and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same , that the respective justices of every parish within this island , or any two of them , shall every year issue out their warrants to the constables and tything-men , to summons the freeholders of that parish together , on the second tuesday in january for the choosing of ten vestry-men , and two church-wardens such as shall conform to the church of england , and if they shall neglect to issue their warrant , so as the election be not made that day , they shall respectively forfeit five pounds currant mony of this island , and in case the said freeholders duly summoned as aforesaid , shall not appear , or appearing do not choose the said ten vestry-men and two church-wardens , that then in their default the said justices shall within ten days after the said second tuesday in january , or any day after as to them shall seem convenient , lay a reasonable tax on the said parish for the maintenance of the minister and poor , and for erecting convenient churches and repairing such as are already made , and making convenient seats in them , and if the said justices and vestry-men shall neglect their duty herein they shall respectively forfeit five pounds currant mony of this island . and be it further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that such of the justices & vestrymen that shall not be present at the time ted to make the said taxes , and thereof be convicted by a certificate under the hands of such as do appear , and have no sufficient excuse for the same , shall respectively forfeit five pounds currant mony of this island , and a roll of the said tax so made shall be delivered into the hands of the respective constables of the said purishes with a warrant under the same signed by any two justices of the peace impowering him or them to levy the said tax and upon refusal to distrain and sell by publick outcry and pay the same into the hands of the church-wardens , retaining to himself twelvepence per pound for levying thereof , and if any person shall refuse to pay what he is so assessed and the said constables distrain for the same all his charges shall be paid him with such further allowance for his pains , as the said justices or any one of them shall judge reasonable , and if the said justice or justices shall neglect to issue the said warrant , he or they shall respectively forfeit five pounds currant mony of this island , and if the said constables or any of them fail of their duty herein , they shall respectively forfeit five pounds currant mony of this island , and the church-wardens so chosen shall undertake the said office and receive and keep a good account of the monies or goods levyed by vertue of this act , and the same issue by order from the said iustices . and vestry-men of the parishes for the purposes and intents aforesaid , and the church-wardens shall as often as thereunto required , yield and give a just and true account unto the justices and vestry-men of all their receits and disbursements , and in case the said church-wardens , or any of them shall neglect their duty herein they shall respectively forfeit five pounds currant mony of this island for every refusal . and be it further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that the respective justices of the parishes of st. dorothy and st. thomas in the vale , or any two of them shall every year issue out their warrants to the constables and tything-men , to summons in the freeholders of the said parishes the second tuesday in february for the choosing of ten vestry-men and two church-wardens as aforesaid , and that the said justices and vestry-men , or the major part of them are hereby impowered to lay on the parishioners a reasonable tax over and above the rate imposed on them by vertue of this act , by the justices and vestry-men of the parish of st. catharines , provided it exceed not one hundred pounds currant mony of this island , for and towards the building and erecting churches and making convenient seats in them in their respective parishes and to no other uses whatsoever , and that whatsoever rate or rates hath been already assessed by the justices and vestry-men of the parish of st. dorothy's upon their parishioners or any other person or persons having land , goods or stock within the said parish , is hereby ratified confirmed and declared lawful , any clause in this act seeming to the contrary notwithstanding , a roll of any taxes so made shall be delivered into the hands of the respective constables of each parish with a warrant under the same signed by any two of the justices , impowering him or them to levy the said tax , and upon refusal to distrain and sell by publick outcry as aforesaid , any thing in this act seeming to the contrary notwithstanding . and be it further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that the justices and vestry-men of each parish have full power to enquire into arrears of former subscriptions and taxes , and to levy the same arrears by warrant from the justices to the constables aforesaid , and that the minister demand no fee in his own parish for christnings , marriages , churchings , or buryals under the penalty of five pounds for every offence , unless such as the justices and vestry-men shall allow , any law , custom , or usage to the contrary notwithstanding , the one half of all which forfeitures shall be to the poor of the parish and the other moyety to him or them that shall sue for the same , in any court of record within this island . and forasmuch as many persons who may by vertue of this act and the act for mending and repairing the high-ways , be taxed , and have nothing in the parish where they are taxed upon which any distress may be made , it is therefore enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that in such cases from and after the making hereof , an action of debt shall lye in any court of record , or before any justice of the peace as in other debts for the several church-wardens and surveyors of each respective parish and their successors to recover against any of the said persons rated or assessed by vertue of this act , or any of them , or their agents or attorneys here all such sum and sums of mony as are or shall be rated or assessed upon them as aforesaid . and that the same rate or assessment produced in such court of record or before such justice of the peace as aforesaid , shall be sufficient evidence and proof for the recovery of all such sum or sums of mony so rated or assessed as aforesaid : provided nevertheless , and it is the true intent and meaning hereof , that no justices of the peace and vestry-men shall have power to assess any such person or persons as aforesaid above the sum of one shilling per annum and for every hundred acres of land and so proportionable for a greater or lesser quantity . and it is hereby further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that any person or persons aggrieved or rated in any such assessment or tax have hereby liberty granted to appeal to the justices siting in the quarter sessions in their respective precincts in this island ; provided , that such appeal to them be made at the first or second quarter sessions after such taxes made and not afterwards , and that there it appearing to the said justices that he , she or they were over-rated , taxed or assessed , the said justices are hereby authorized and impowered , if they find him , her or them , so over-rated or assessed , to ease him , her , or them as to their discretion shall seem meet , but that no appeal shall lye further , or to any other court or place in this island , for any tax or rate made or assessed by the justices and vestry-men of each respective parish in this island , any law , custom , or usage to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding , and be it further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that the church-wardens of each respective parish within this island , do buy or cause to be bought one fair well bound book , wherein the minister , and in case there be no minister there resident , the respective church-wardens upon notice thereof given by the masters of the several families , who are hereby required to give such notice under the penalty of five pounds shall register or cause to be registred by the clark of the vestry of that parish , the times of the births , christnings , marriages , and burials , of all such person or persons that shall from time to time be born , christned , marryed , or buried , within the said parish , under the penalty of five pounds for every such default ; and that the said clark or person that shall register the same , shall have and receive as a fee for each entry fifteen pence and no more . and it is hereby further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all such entries duly made and kept as aforesaid shall at all times hereafter be deemed , judged and taken as an authentique record of all such births , christnings , marriages , and burials , and in all and every the courts of records in this island ; but if any person hereby authorized to make such entry or any other whatsoever shall make or cause to be made any false entry , or shall raze our or imbezel any entry or books of entry , he or they so offending shall be proceeded against and punished in manner and form , as the laws of england provide against such as steal , raze , or imbezel , records ; the one moyety of all which forfeitures or penalties or any other mentioned in this act , and not directed how to be disposed of , shall be to the poor of the parish where the fault is committed , the other moyety or half part to the informer , to be recovered by bill , plaint or information in any of his majesties courts of record in this island , wherein no wager of law essoin , protection or injunction shall be allowed , any thing in this act or in any other act to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding . and be it further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that the parish of port-royal do allow and pay unto the minister thereof two hundred and fifty pounds per annum of currant mony of this island , and that the parish of st. catharines do allow and pay unto the ministers thereof one hundred and forty pounds of the like mony per annum and not less ; and that the parish of st. thomas , st. andrews and st. johns do allow and pay unto their respective ministers one hundred pounds of like mony per annum , and that all the other parishes within this his majesties island , that either have or shall have a minister , do allow and pay eighty pounds currant mony and not less , as a constant yearly salary for the support and maintenance of every of their ministers to be paid at their respective dwelling houses every six months , without any charge or defalcation by equal portions , and none to be capable of being presented to the said benefices , or receiving the profits of the same , unless they produce due testimonials that they are qualified according to the canons of the church of england , by having taken deacon and priests orders , and the said testimonials to be recorded in the secretaries office. and be it further enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that no minister not duly qualified as aforesaid , presume to marry any person or persons whatsoever under the penalty of one hundred pounds currant mony of this island , one third thereof to our soveraign lord the king his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island and the contingent charges thereof , one third to the poor of the parish , where the offence shall be committed , and the other part to him or them that shall sue for the same in any of the courts of records within this island , and that no minister presume to marry any persons whose banes have not been published three times in their parish church or have a licence from the governour or commander in chief for the time being , authorizing him thereunto , under the like penalty and to the same uses , to be recovered as asoresaid , or twelve months imprisonment : provided always and it is the true intent and meaning of this act , that no ecclesiastical law or jurisdiction , shall have power to inforce , confirm , or establish any penal mulcts or punishment in any case whatsoever , any thing in this act or any other to the contrary notwithstanding . and whereas this island in the twenty ninth year of his majesties reign by an act of this country was divided into fifteen parishes , which were called , distinguished and known by several names hereafter mentioned , that is to say , st. thomas , st. davids , port-royal , st. andrews , st. katharines , st. dorothy's , st. thomas in the valley , clarendon , vere , st. johns , st. georges , st. maries , st. anns , st. james , st. elizabeths , be it therefore enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that all and every of the said several parishes rest , remain and for ever hereafter be distinguished and known by the aforesaid respective names , and by no other whatsoever , any thing in this or any other law to the contrary notwithstanding . an act ascertaining the value of foreign coins , and establishing interest . be it enacted by the governour , council and assembly , and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same , that each single spanish dubloon or french pistol shall be currant , and pass for twenty shillings currant mony , each single piece of sevil , mexico , or piller , and each french crown at five shillings , currant mony , a peru piece of eight at four shillings , and all monies whatsoever of those coins aforesaid , shall in all payments whatsoever be proportionably rated , any law , custom , or usage to the contrary notwithstanding . that whosoever shall for base lucre by any way or means coyn , falsify , impair , diminish , seal , wash , clip , file , or lighten , any of the mony aforesaid , or any other mony currant in this island , shall be guilty of high treason , any law , custom , or usage to the contrary notwithstanding . and it is further enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that from and after the twentieth day of july in the year of our lord one thousand six hundred eighty and one no person or persons whatsoever upon any contract made or to be made shall directly or indirectly take for the loan of any monies above the value of ten pounds currant mony for the forbearance of one hundred pounds currant mony for one year , and so after the rate for a greater or lesser sum for a longer or shorter time , which said interest is hereby declared to be only recoverable upon penal bonds and mortgages . that all bonds , contracts , and assurances whatsoever , made hereafter for the payment of any principal mony to be lent on usury , whereupon or whereby there shall be received or taken above the rates of ten pounds currant mony in the hundred as aforesaid , shall be utterly void , and that all and every person or persons whatsoever , who shall hereafter upon any contract to be made , take , accept , or receive , by any way or means , or corrupt bargain , loan , or exchange , shift , or interest , of any moneys , or by deceipt or any other fraudulent conveyance for forbearance or giving day of payment for one whole year , or in proportion for a longer or shorter time for their monies , the sum of ten pounds currant mony aforesaid , shall forfeit and lose for every such his or their offence treble the value of the mony lent or bargained for , by any way or means whatsoever , one moyety of which forfeitures shall be to our soveraign lord the king his heirs and successors for and towards the support of the government of this island , and the contingent charges thereof , the other moyety to him or them that shall sue for the same , in any court of record within this island , wherein no essoin , protection , or wager of law shall be allowed . and whereas certain evil disposed goldsmiths , deceitfully do make and sell plate and other gold and silver wares to the great defrauding of his majesties subjects of this island , for remedy whereof , be it enacted by the authority aforesaid , that no goldsmith or worker in gold or silver within this island , from and after the first day of august in the year of our lord one thousand six hundred eighty and one , shall work , sell , exchange , or cause to be wrought , sold , or exchanged , any plate or other goldsmiths ware of gold , less in fineness than twenty two carrats , and that from the time aforesaid , no goldsmith or worker in gold or silver shall make , sell or exchange in any place within this island , any plate or goldsmiths wares of silver less in fineness than that of eleven ounces two penny weight , and that no goldsmith or worker in gold or silver shall presume to put to sale , exchange or sell , any plate of goldsmiths work of gold or silver , before he hath set his own mark to so much thereof as may conveniently bear the same , upon pain of forfeiting the value of the thing so sold or exchanged . and be it further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that whatsoever goldsmith or worker in gold or silver as aforesaid , from and after the said first day of august , shall presume to sell or exchange any gold or silver wares , of less fineness than aforesaid , for every such first offence , shall forfeit treble the value of the said wares so sold or exchanged , one half whereof shall be to our soveraign lord the king his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island , and the contingent charges thereof , and the other half to the party aggrieved to be recovered in manner and form aforesaid , and whosoever shall offend the second time , and thereof be convicted , shall stand in the pillory for the space of one hour , and lose his ears for the same . an act for the better securing certain titles , made by way of release and confirmation , under the great seal of this island . whereas nicholas keen and john duray late of this island , died aliens , or otherwise incapable by law to make any good devise or other conveyance of such real estate as they , or either of them dyed seized of in this island , and forasmuch as redman macragh claiming under one dennis macragh deceased , who claimed under the last will and testament of the said nicholas keen hath as well through his own industry and expence as the great charge and hazard of the said dennis , very considerably improved the said estate of the said nicholas keen ; and that samuuel bradway executor of the last will and testament of the said john duray , to whom also the said john duray did by his last will and testament in writing devise , give and bequeath all his real estate , hath out of the same , satisfied and paid the debts of the said john duray , and by his own care and cost very much advanced and improved the real estate of the said john duray , and that the said redman macragh and samuel bradway , have on their humble petitions , severally obtained a grant for the same , under the great seal of this island , by way of release and confirmation , that is to say , a grant unto the said redman macragh his heirs and assigns for ever , of all the real estate of the said nicolas keene , and the said samuel bradway , another grant as aforesaid , unto him , his heirs and assigns for ever , of all the real estate of the said john duray . be it therefore enacted and ordained by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that the said grants severally made under the great seal of this island , by way of release and confirmation of the estate of the said nicholas keen deceased unto redman macragh , his heirs and assigns , and the grant made as aforesaid , by way of release and confirmation of the estate of john duray unto the said samuel bradway , his heirs and assigns , be hereby ratysied and confirmed , and the several-estates hereby also released , and confirmed unto the said several grantees , their heirs and assigns for ever , any statute , law , custom , or usage , to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding . an act for setling the militia . whereas the situation of this island , amidst subtle , rich and potent nations , cannot but sufficiently convince every reasonable man of the necessity the inhabitants have , of being well armed and trained up in the art military , as well for the honour and service of his most excellent majesty , as the preservation of our own lives and fortunes , be it therefore enacted and ordained by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained , by the authority of the same , that no person whatsoever from 15 to 60 years of age , remain unlisted by themselves , or masters , mistrisses , or employers under the captains , in the respective places of their abode , in foot , or horse , the space of six weeks , on penalty of forty shillings and so for every six weeks , such persons shall remain unlisted ; and that every foot souldier be provided with a well fixed musket or fusee , or ( if the officer so appoint ) with a good pike and sword , or launce and pistol , each musqueteer to have six charges of powder and one cartouch box , and so shall appear , when and where appointed , upon penalty of ten shillings for his default in not appearing , and four shillings for want of each charge of powder , gun , pike , sword , pistol , or cartouch-box , so as the whole penalty for any person at one time exceed not ten shillings ; and that every souldier belonging to the horse , shall when and where commanded , appear and be provided with a good serviceable horse of ten pounds value at the least , covered with a good saddle , with holsters , breast-plate and-crupper , and a case of good pistols , hanger , sword or rapier , and half a pound of powder , on penalty of ten shillings for each times absence , and six shillings for default of each the particulars above-mentioned , so as the whole penalty for one time exceed not fifteen shillings , and that every foot souldier shall have at his habitation and abode two pounds of good powder and six pounds of sizable bullet , and every trooper have at his usual place of abode , a well fixed carbine with belt and swivel and four pounds of fine powder , with twelve pounds of sizable bullets , on penalty of ten shillings for each default , and that each of them shall bring the same into the field , when commanded , upon penalty of answering the same at a court martial : provided nevertheless , that nothing herein be construed to extend to sorce or compel any person , that hath or shall be in conimission in this island to list himself in any company or troop , or to serve in any capacity beneath the sormer commission , unless such person hath been degraded by a court martial . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that no person so listed as aforesaid shall depart thence without a discharge from the commander of the company or troop where listed , on penalty of forty shillings , and that no commander of any company or troop shall refuse when desired to give a discharge in writing to any that is removing his abode out of the precincts under the penalty of five pounds . and whereas at the town of port-royal , guards , and watches are every night set and appointed , be it therefore enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that it shall and may be lawful for any person or persons listed in the regiment of port-royal ( except on extraordinary occasions ) to put a well armed man in their room , who if approved of by the captain of the guard , shall excuse his or their absence ; provided always , that the commission officers and serjeants of the respective companies be obliged in their respective turns , to mount the guards in their proper persons , and that no person shall refuse to be a serjeant , corporal , or drummer , in the company or troop , wherein he is listed , under the penalty of five pounds . and be it further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that all captains of companies of foot or troops of horse , shall within six months from and after publication of this act , provide for their companies , and troops , drums , and colours , trumpets , trumpeters , and banners . at their own charge under penalty of ten pounds , and so for every six months such commanders shall remain unprovided , and that all the colonels of the respective regiments , or next chief officer in their . absence shall once every year at the least issue out their warrants to their inferiour officers commanding them to make diligent search and inquiry in their several precincts , that all be duly listed , armed , and equipped , and to return to them such defects as shall be found , to the end the same may be reformed on penalty of 100 pounds and that once every two months , or oftener , as occasion shall require , and command be given by the commander in chief , the several companies and troops in each regiment shall meet at the next and most convenient places , to be appointed by their respective ossicers , to be then and there by them mustered and exercised , only the regiment on port-royal shall meet and exercise one company in each week successively , and the whole regiment once in eleven weeks . and it is further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid that during the time the said officers and souldiers are in arms they shall observe and keep all and every of the laws and articles of war , and give all due obedience to their superior officers , which laws and articles the commander in chief with advice of a general council of war , is to make and establish , and the commanders of the several regiments to give out copies of the said articles unto their respective officers , that the same may be publickly read once every six months unto the souldiers , whilst they are in arms , that all persons may the better know and observe their duties , and if it shall happen that any of the officers or souldiers , shall when they are out of arms , endeavour to take revenge by force , for any thing his or their superiour officers lawfully did in pursuance of his or their duty and this act , the said officers and souldiers shall be brought to a court marshal and there punished , as if the offence had been done in time of service or exercise : provided that the said punishment do not extend to life or limb. and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that once every year , or oftener if thereunto commanded , each particular captain shall give to his field officer , and the field officer to the commander in chief , fair written rolls of their respective companies and regiments , and if any field officer , captain or other inferior officer or souldier , shall neglect or contemn performing the lawful commands of their respective superiour officers , he or they shall be punished by fine , casheering or punishment according to the discretion of a court marshal , which the commander in chief is to appoint and establish , and the orders of the said court martial , are hereby declared to be binding in all military affairs ; and if any person upon any invasion , or other publique military service , be wounded or disabled , he shall be cured and maintained out of the publique revenue , and if any person whatsoever shall be sued , molested , or impleaded , for any thing lawfully commanded in the execution and pursuance of this present act , he shall plead the general issue and give this act in evidence , and shall thereupon , if found for him , recover costs of suit and treble damages . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that upon every apprehension and appearance of any publique danger or invasion , the commander in chief do forthwith call a council of war , and with their advice and consent cause and command the articles of war to be proclaimed at port-royal and st. jago de la vega , from which said publication the martial law is to be in force , that then it shall and may be lawful for the said commander in chief to command the persons of any of his majesties leige people , as also their negroes , horses , and cattle , for all such services as may be for the publick defence , and to pull down houses , cut down timber , command ships and boats , and generally to act and do with all full power and authority , all such things as he and the said council of war shall think necessary and expedient for his majesties service and defence of this island : provided always and it is the true intent and meaning of this act , that as soon as the common law revives and is in force , the said negroes , servants , cattles , ships or boats , so imployed as aforesaid , be immediatly discharged ; and to the end it may be certainly known , when the martial law ceaseth , and the common law taketh place , it is hereby declared that upon lodging the colours and discharging the soldiers from their arms , the martial law ceaseth and the common law revives and taketh place . provided also that the martial or his deputy shall not presume to arrest , any such souldier , within one month after every such discharge , nor in the time of his going or coming , to or from the place of exercise , or rendevous , under the penalty of ten pounds , and of being further lyable to an action of false imprisonment ; and in case of any such arrest , it shall be lawful for the respective captain , or other commission officer to release any of his or their souldiers so arrested . and it is hereby further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that if upon any alarm or invasion any person or persons whatsoever shall suffer either by the landing of an enemy or drawing together his majesties forces of this island , all such damage or damages whether in servants , negroes , horses , cattel , or in the labour of any of them , or in the expence of provision , or by fire , or by any other loss whatsoever , that may accrue by the means aforesaid , that then upon due application and proof thereof made unto the governour and council , the said damages shall be reasonably valued , and forthwith payd out of the publick revenue , and that if there be no mony there , the governour and commander in chief do forthwith call an assembly , and recommend to them all cases of the like nature , so that mony may be legally raised for the publick disbursements , and every one receive just and equal satisfaction for their losses . provided always , and it is hereby enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that the several fines and forfeitures mentioned in this act , and not declared in what manner they shall be recovered , and how disposed of , that all such as do relate to any person under the degree of a captain , shall be to the respective captains to defray the charge of their companies or troops , and to be levyed before the next exercising day , by distress and sale of the oftenders goods by the captains warrant to the serjeant or corporal , and if no distress be found , the punishment to be by ryding the wooden horse , or being tyed neck and heels , not exceeding an hour at the discretion of their officer , but if the offender be a servan● the owners goods shall be lyable to the distresses and sales as aforesaid , so that satisfaction may be made ; and for all other penalties mentioned in this act , the same shall be levyed by distress and sale of the offenders goods and chattels by the provost marshal by warrant from the commander in chief , one half thereof shall be to our soveraign lord the king , his. heirs and successors for and towards the support of the government of this island , and the contingent charges thereof , and the other half to the informer . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that it shall and may be lawful for any commission officer belonging to the regiment on port-royal under the degree of a captain , in the absence of the said captain from of the point , to grant warrants of distress against any persons whatsoever that shall absent themselves from their duty on the night guards , without sending a sufficient person to serve and watch in their stead , which said warrants so granted shall be as effectual to all intents and purposes whatsoever , as if they or any of them had been granted by the captains themselves . and be it likewise enacted by the authority aforesaid , that no wherry , ships boat , or canoa , shall at any time pass the fort at port-royal under the penalty of twenty shillings to be recovered by warrant from any justice of the peace , without giving notice to the captain of the said fort , or whosoever shall command in chief therein in his absence , which said notice shall be sufficient leave to pass the said fort , without any further charge or trouble whatsoever , unless the said captain or other his subordinate officer have reasonable cause to suspect the person so desiring leave , to have some evil design in going off with , or carrying off any persons contrary to law , in which case it shall and may be lawful for the said captain or his aforesaid officer to hinder their departure out of the harbour until the said captain or officer be satisfied of the lawfulness of their occasion , any act , custom , or usage , to the contrary notwithstanding . be it also further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that no person whatsoever presume to fire any small arms after eight of the clock at night , unless in case of an alarm , insurrection , or other lawful occasion , and in either of the said cases four muskets or small arms distinctly fired shall be taken for an alarm from quarter to quarter , and every person that shall be duly convicted before a regimental court martial , of neglecting his duty in taking and giving forward any alarm by firing four muskets or small arms as aforesaid , or shall be guilty of firing any small arms after eight of the clock at night , unless as aforesaid , shall be fined , or otherwise punished at the discretion of a court martial , not extending to life or limb. and whosoever shall be found to be a transgressor herein , by the next commission officer under penalty of five pounds be caused to be apprehended , and sent under a guard to the next marshal , who is hereby obliged under penalty of twenty pounds to receive and secure the said offender until he shall be tryed or discharged by a court marshal as aforesaid . and for the better prevention of false alarms , that no captain , master , or commander of any ship , or vessel , riding at anchor in the harbour of port-royal or any other bay or harbour , or any other person , fire any gun after sun set , under penalty of forty shillings for every gun so fired , to be levyed by warrant from the chief officer not under the degree of a captain , who is hereby impowered to administer an oath and give judgment thereupon by distress or sale of the offenders goods , and for want of distress the said chief officer is hereby impowered to commit such offender to goal , there to remain until payment of the same , and that in case the said chief officer shall not perform his duty therein , he shall forfeit ten pounds to be levyed by warrant from the governour or commander in chief for the time being ; provided always that this clause shall in no ways concern or extend to any captain , or officer of any of his majesties ships of war , for their firing of one gun for the setting of the watch. provided always and it is hereby further enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that nothing in this act contained be expounded , construed , or understood , to diminish , alter or abridge the power of the governour or commander in chief for the time being , but that in all things , and upon all occasions , he may act as fully and freely as captain general and chief governour , to all intents and purposes , as if this act had never been made , any thing in this act to the contrary notwithstanding . provided also , and it is hereby enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that nothing within this act , or any clause therein contained shall be deemed , construed or understood , to give any captain , general or commander in chief , any power or authority for the sending any person or persons of this island against their will , or to do any other act or thing contrary or repugnant unto the known laws of england or this island . an act for prevention of law suits . be it enacted and ordained by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that all possessions of , or titles to any lands or houses whatsoever , derived by or from any sales , for valuable considerations made either by the brovost marshals , creditors , or by the executors , or administrators , of any persons deceased , or by the husbands in right of their wives , or by the endorsments or delivery up of patents , or by any decrees in chancery , or by any last wills and testaments , or by any patent granted upon judgment given in writs of escheat or cessavit , and the said person or any claiming under them now being in possession of the same , be by this present act ratified , confirmed , and declared good and legal to all intents and purposes whatsoever ; provided always that such possessors or purchasors , their heirs , or assigns , have or shall continue in quiet or peaceable possession of the same , for the space of seven years without any claim or interruption , and the said sales , patents , decrees , and possessions , as aforesaid , to be a perpetual bar against all manner of persons claiming , or to claim , any right or title by descent , purchase , marriage , or limitation , for or by reason of any former grant , gift , patent or conveyance , any law , custom , or usage , in any wise to the contrary notwithstanding . and it is hereby enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that in all writs of escheat hereafter to be granted , the provost marshal be commanded to inquire by a jury of twelve free and lawful men upon their oaths , ( they then being upon the premises ) the true value of all and singular , the real estate , which any person so dying without , heirs was at the time of his death sei zed of , and that after office found and returned into the supreme court and judgment hereupon given and recorded , it be lawful for the governour for the time being , or in his absence , the commander in chief , to pass any grant of the said escheated estate , under the broad seal of this island . provided that a clause be therein inserted , that the said grant shall determine and be voyd , in case any right heir appears and claims the same , and legally approves himself to be heir , within three years after the date of the said patent , and that the value of the said escheated estate , as it was apprised at , shall be secured to be paid unto the treasury of this island , after the expiration of three years from the date of the patent , if no heir in the mean time shall obtain the same , by such person or persons to whom the governour or commander in chief , as aforesaid , shall by patent under the broad seal of this island grant the same , and that the treasurer or receiver , be hereby required to pay or cause to be paid , the sum or sums of mony the said escheated estate was valued at , out of the treasury , unto or for the use of such heir , who shall claim the same , and approve himself to be heir , before any other payment whatsoever , which proof of the heirs title shall be made by any publick attestation , or otherwise as shall be beleived to be evidence by the judges and jury , to be recovered at any time without limitation . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all bills of sale and conveyances whatsoever , heretofore made , or that hereafter shall be made , by husband and wife , and acknowledged before the judge of any court of record within this island , and duly recorded , shall be good and valid in law against all persons whatsoever , that can or may pretend to claim any estate in the lands or tenements so conveyed , to all intents and purposes whatsoever , as if the same had passed by fine and recovery in any of his majesties courts of westminster . provided always that where any true and valuable improvement is made on such escheated land by the patentee or patentees during the said three years , that such heir before his entring upon the same shall satisfie and pay unto such patentee or patentees , all such charges , as the chancellour for the time being , shall judge to be reasonably expended , together with the interest of the same , according to the custom of this country , any thing herein contain'd to the contrary notwithstanding . an act for establishing courts and directing the marshals proceedings . for the better and more orderly regulation and establishment of the several courts of justice within this island , as well in respect of the time as place for holding the same , and also directing the marshals proceedings , be it enacted by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that the judges of the supream court of judicature for the time being , are hereby fully impowered and authorized to have cognizance of all pleas , civil criminal , and mixt , as fully and amply , to all intents and purposes whatsoever , as the courts of kings bench , common pleas and exchequer within his majesties kingdom of england , have or ought to have , and the said court shall be duly and constantly kept at the town of st. jago de la vega and not else where , once every three months , and not oftner , and that there be five judges at the least appointed to hold the same court , three whereof to be a quorum , and that the several inferior courts of common pleas established , or that shall be established in the several precincts of this island , shall have jurisdiction over all causes wherein any free-hold isnot concerned , to the value of twenty pounds with cosles and no more , and that the same be held and kept at the same time and in the same place of the respective precincts , where the justices of the peace shall hold and keep the quarter sessions once every three months , and that none of the said courts be kept oftner , nor in any other place or manner than is hereby declared . provided always and it is hereby enacted by the authority aforesaid , that in respect port-royal is the chief seat of trade within this island , and it is found by experience that a quicker and more speedy dispatch of all maritine and merchandizing affairs give the greatest satisfaction to all parties concerned , it shall and may be lawful for the judg or judges of the court there established , to hold and keep the same once every two months and not oftner , and that it shall and may be lawful for the chancellour here for the time being upon application made to grant a justices to any of the inferiour courts , within this island , any thing herein contained to the contrary notwithstanding . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that it shall not be lawful for any person or persons whatsoever appointed , elected or chosen , to be a judge or judges of the aforesaid courts , to execute or officiate his or their said place or office , until such time as he or they shall respectively take the oaths of allegance and supremacy in open court , and that none of the said judges directly nor indirectly shall ask , demand , or receive , any other profit , benefit or advantage , from any of the clarks of the said courts , or other person whatsoever , under colour or pretence of such their place , office or authority , but what is allowed them by the acts of this island , under the penalty of five hundred pounds of currant mony of this island . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all and every of the judges of the several courts before mentioned , be and are hereby sufficiently empowered to make , order and establish all such rules , and orders for the more orderly practising and proceeding in their said courts , as fully and amply to all intents and purposes whatsoever , as all or any of the judges of the several courts of the kings bench , common pleas , and exchequer in england legally do , and that no councillour or attorney be suffered to practise in any of the said courts , until they be first admitted by the same , and have taken as well the oath of an attorny , as the oaths of allegiance and supremacy under the penalty of twenty pounds of currant mony of this island , and whatsoever councillor or attorney shall by negligence or ignorance mistake his clients cause , and imperfectly lay his action or ill draw the declaration , whereby the client shall suffer a non-suit , he or they so offending shall be lyable by rule of court , without any other process or course of law whatsoever , to pay unto the party aggrieved full costs of suit ; and to the end that no person shall be damnified by mistake of his lawyer , for matter of form only , be it enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that the judges shall at all times on motion made in court , order amendments , and shall not upon arrest of judgment or writ of errour for matter of form only , reverse any judgment whatsoever , and be it enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that no action of wast shall be permitted to be brought or allowed to lye within any court of this island , and that no free-holder whatsoever , being of know residence , shall be arrested by any process out of any of the said courts upon the penalty of twenty pounds currant mony to be paid by the plaintiff to the party so arrested , and what action or other proceeding whatsoever shall be entred , sued , had , made , or prosecuted thereupon , contrary to the true intent and meaning thereof shall and is hereby declared to be void and of no effect to all intents and purposes whatsoever , and that no suit be had or process taken out of the supream court of judicature for any matter or cause of action under the value of twenty pounds currant mony of this island , upon the penalty of twenty pounds of the like money , to be paid by the plaintiff in the said action , but that the same be tryed in the court of the precincts , where such cause of action doth arise , provided that both parties reside there , and that the inhabitants and residents , in st. catharines , st. dorothy's , st. thomas in the vale , and st. johns , sue as formerly in the supreme court for any sum whatsoever , until they shall have petty courts erected in their own parishes , any thing in this act to the contrary notwithstanding . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that in all and every the inferiour courts within this island , upon summons duly served , and the defendant not appearing , judgment shall go by default in the same manner and form , as in the supreme court ; provided always that it is the true intent and meaning of this act , that as well in the supreme court as any other the inferiour courts within this island , the provost marshal or his lawful deputy shall appear in open court and there depose upon oath , that the party or parties against whom judgment shall go by default , hath been legally summoned fourteen days before the said court , any thing in this act or any other to the contrary notwithstanding . and it is likewise enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that upon any declaration exhibited in debt upon specialty or bill under hand , or in case of a book debt upon a concessit solvere and disclosing the special matter to the chief judge of the supream court , of judicature that the said debtor against whom the plaint is entred is either gone off this island , or that upon process already taken out against him , a non est inventus hath been returned , an attachment shall then issue , thereby commanding the provost marshal , or his lawful deputy to attach such monys goods , chattels , or debts in the hands of the possessors of the same , be they attorney , wife , servant or any other person , and also require them to appear at the next court , to shew cause , why the said money , goods , chattels or debts , or so much thereof as will satisfie the said debts then demanded , should not be delivered to the plaintiff ; at which day , if the said possessor or debtor , be they attorney , wife , servant , or other person , as aforesaid , be convicted by confession , verdict , or otherwise , that the said moneys , goods , chattels or debts do properly belong to the person so gone off this island , or otherwise absented himself as aforesaid , and if the plaintiff before or after due proof made , do solemnly swear in open court , that his debt is true , and that directly or indirectly no part or parcel of what he demanded is satisfied , and also give in security in double the sum he demands , to restore the same with treble dammages , or so much thereof as shall at any time afterwards be disproved , that then and in all such cases the plaintiff shall have judgment to recover the said debt out of the said money , goods , chattels or debts so attached as aforesaid . provided always , that if any will appear as attorney to the said debtor and put in bail to answer the action and pay the condemnation , that then and in all such cases the attachment on the said money , goods , chattels or debts shall be dissolved , and proceedings had according to the custom of the common law , but if the possessor or owner of such money , goods , chattels or debts , be they attorney , wife , servant , or other person , as aforesaid , shall after attachment so laid on them in the respective hands dispose of the said money , goods , chattels , or debts , towards the payment of any other debts , before the said debt , for which the attachment was laid , be satisfied , or the said attachment be dissolved , that then and in all such cases the said party , for such their default , shall be liable to make satisfaction to the plaintiff out of their own proper estates . and be it further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that in all debts not exceeding forty shillings , upon complaint made to any justice of the peace , that the debtor against whom he complaineth is gone off this island , or otherwise absented himself , that then it shall and may be lawful for the said justice of the peace to issue out a warrant of attachment to be levied by the constable , in manner and form as is before prescribed , to the provost-marshal for the execution of the writ , and to be immediately determined by the said justice , any clause in this act or any other to the contrary notwithstanding . and be it further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that all summons and other process hereafter mentioned shall be served and executed in manner and form , as is herein directed , and in no other manner or way whatsoever , ( that is to say ) that all summons as well from the supreme court as all other the inferiour courts within this island , port-royal only excepted , shall be delivered to the party , or left at their respective dwellings fourteen days before the several courts by a sworn marshal , and that at port-royal all summons shall be delivered ten days before the courts , otherwise it shall be deemed and taken as no service , and the defendant not bound by it to appear ; and that all replevins , foreign attachments at the supreme court and warrants of arrest be served at any time as heretofore , and that no execution shall be taken out , served or executed until twenty eight days be fully expired after judgment , except at port-royal , where execution shall issue ten days after judgment obtained , and that no negroes , horses , or any manner of utensils belonging to a plantation , brick or pot-work , nor any other negroes whatsoever , from and after the making hereof shall be taken in execution , where the party against whom the execution is obtained , shall offer goods for satisfaction of the debt and costs of suit. and it is further enacted , that the said defendant who hath his goods taken upon execution shall have free liberty to convey and carry off the goods so taken at his own proper costs and charges to the next and most convenient place and market for disposal of the said goods , and there shall have free power and liberty to make contracts , bargain for and sell the goods so taken in execution , the defendant first acquainting the marshal who levied the execution upon the goods , with such bargain or contract , to the end the marshal may deliver the same , and receive the produce thereof according to his precept . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that if the defendant , after his goods shall be so taken in execution as aforesaid , shall delay or neglect selling or disposing of the goods until ten days before the next ensuing court , that then and in all such cases , it shall and may be lawful for the marshal to take the said goods and chattels of the defendant , and the same to sell by publick outcry . and it is further enacted by tho authority aforesaid , that where no such goods as aforesaid shall be shewn and offered to the provost-marshal , so that the negroes , working-cattel , or necessary utensils must be taken in execution , that then and in all such cases the said negroes , horses or utensils shall not be removed , but remain still in the defendants possession , and that upon the marshals return at the same court as aforesaid , that he hath levied such effects and left them in the defendants hands , there issue out a venditioni exponas , without any charge of mile-money , in these words following : the king to the provost-marshal , greeting , whereas we lately commanded thee by our writ , that of the goods and chattels real and personal of a. b. thou shouldest levy or cause to be levied as also costs of suit which c. d. hath recovered against him , by vertue of which writ thou didst return unto vs , that thou hadst taken in execution of the goods of the said a. b. to the value of the said debt and costs of suit , which said goods remain in the custody of the said a. b. by thee in form as aforesaid taken , thou expose to sale , and the money thereof coming thou immediately render to the said c. d. for his debt or dammages and cost as aforesaid , but if the goods aforesaid shall be imbezell'd or made away , or that the said a. b. doth not deliver the same , that then thou levy the said debts or dammages and costs upon any other the goods and chattels of the said a. b. and immediately expose them to sale , and if thou canst not find sufficient goods or chattels , by which the whole debt or dammage and costs may be satisfied , that then you take the body of the said a. b. and him safely keep , so that thou have his body before vs , at our next court , to satisfie the said c. d. of the said debt or dammages and cost , or so much thereof as by thee cannot be levied , and have thou then and there this writ . witness , &c. by vertue whereof the said goods shall be sold by publick outery at the next court of the precincts , where the goods are taken , and if they are so arrested or taken in the parish of st. catharines , st. dorothy's , st. thomas in the vale , or st. john's , until they shall have petty courts of their own erected , publication shall be then made at the same court , that the return is made , that the said goods shall be sold twenty days after by publick outcry in the parade-place of st. jago de la vega , and the money arising from the said sale shall not remain in the marshals hands , but be paid to the plaintiff , or his order within ten days , under the penalty of half the debt to be recovered by the plaintiff to his own use , in any court of record within this island , where no essoin , protection , or wager of law shall be allowed . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that where the person against whom such execution is issued hath not the goods aforementioned in this act by him to shew and offer to the marshal within the time prescribed , that nevertheless the marshal shall not lay the execution upon any negroes , working-cattel , or utensils upon or belonging to any plantation , brick or pot-work , or any other negroes whatsoever , if the defendant shew or deliver to him any other stock or cattel being in a pen , the said cattel or stock to be sold by publick outcry , upon venditioni exponas , to be issued as aforesaid . and it is further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that all accidents that happen , whilst the goods that are taken in execution , remain in the defendants possession , be born and made good by the defendant , and that no property shall be by the defendant transferred or made in or to any such goods that shall be so taken in execution by vertue of this act. provided always and it is hereby further enacted and declared , that where the body of the defendant shall be taken in execution , that nevertheless if any effects afterwards appear , the plarntiff may take out another execution , and levy the same on the said effects , for satisfaction of the said debt , any law , custom or usage to the contrary notwithstanding . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that where any prisoner or prisoners under execution , shall have nothing to maintain him , her or themselves , that then he , she or they disclosing the same upon oath unto two justices of the peace of the parish where he , she or they shall be prisoners , and making it appear to the judges of the supreme court , that he , she or they have given notice to all their creditors ten days before the said court , that they or either of them intend to take the benefit of this act , bringing likewise to the said court a certificate of such their oath under the hands and seals of the said justices , that then the prisoner or prisoners so taken in execution shall be publickly let to hire at the said court , the marshal receiving for his fees a proportionable share with the other creditors , and the money so arising from the said hire shall be paid to such persons , as the court shall appoint , to be equally divided among the creditors as aforesaid , but in case any creditors shall refuse to consent to letting the said prisoner or prisoners to hire , that then such creditor shall pay or cause to be paid to the said prisoner or prisoners three shillings and six pence weekly . provided always and it is hereby enacted , that if any prisoner or prisoners so let to hire shall at any time afterwards come to have or enjoy an estate , having not first satisfied their debts , that then at all times hereafter the judgment obtained against him , her or them shall remain good and in force , and another execution shall be taken out and levied against the goods and chattels of the said prisoner or prisoners , wheresover . they shall be found . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that if the provost-marshal by himself or any of his deputies shall levy any execution in any other manner than what is herein before declared , or shall ask , demand or receive any mile-money for the executing any writ of execution or venditioni exponas , shall forfeit one hundred pounds currant money of this island for every such offence , to be recovered in any court of record within this island , wherein no essoin , protection or wager of law shall be allowed , the one moity whereof shall be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island , and the contingent charges thereof , the other moity to the party aggrieved . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that the several fines , forfeitures and penalties before-mentioned in this act , and not declared how they shall be disposed of shall be recovered in any court of record within this island , wherein no essoin , protection or wager of law shall be allowed , the one moity whereof shall be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island and the contingent charges thereof , and the other moity to the informer , or he that shall sue for the same . an act appointing where the laws of this island shall be lodged . whereas no place hath been hitherto appointed for the lodging and securing the acts of this island , so that his majesties subjects have been at no certainty where to find the same and take copies thereof , to their great detriment and inconveniency ; for remedy whereof for the future , be it enacted and ordained by the governour council and assembly , and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same , that from and after the end and determination of this present session as well the original act heretofore made and enacted since the seventeenth day of of march in the year of our lord one thousand six hundred and eighty , as those also herewith , or that shall hereafter be enacted shall be lodged in the secretaries office of enrolments at st. jago de la vega , and not elsewhere , and the secretary for the time being shall at all office hours be ready to shew all or any of the said acts when thereunto required by any of his majesties subjects as may or shall have occasion to view the same , and shall give copies thereof , or any clause in any of them contained for which he shall be allowed eight pence per sheet accounting sixteen lines to a sheet , and fourteen words to a line , and that he shall likewise be allowed for comparing and examining any copy containing the whole body of the laws with the originals , forty shillings currant mony and no more , and to the end his majesties subjects may be fully satisfied no embezelment , razure , or defacements of the said acts , or any of them shall for the future , be committed in the said office , it is enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that the secretary of this island , or his lawful deputy that shall act in his room or stead shall give in bond with good and sufficient security to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , in the penalty of four thousand pounds in the following condition . the condition of this obligation is such , that if the above bound a. b. shall and do well and faithfully execute and perform the offices and places of secretary , and clerk of the enrolments for this his majesties island of jamaica , and also faithfully and truly keep and preserve in his said office , all and every the acts of this island made since the seventeenth day of march in the year of our lord god one thousand six hundred and eighty , so that his majesties subjects may have recourse thereunto , and do in all things else comply with the duty of the said offices according to the trust reposed in him and according to the laws of this island in such cases made and provided , that then the above written obligation to be void and of none effect , or else to remain in full force and vertue . provided always that neither the said secretary nor his deputy for the time being do or shall from and after the twentieth day of november next ensuing , presume to act or officiate his said office until he or they shall enter into the aforesaid bond , with the condition before recited , upon penalty of five hundred pounds for every time he or they shall so officiate or act in his said office to be recovered in the supream court of judicature in this island , by bill , plaint or information wherein no essoin , protection , injunction , wager of law or non vult ulterius prosequi shall be admitted or allowed , the one half to be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this his majesties island and the contingent charges thereof , and the other half to the informer , or him that shall sue for the same , any law , custom or usage , to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding . provided also and be it hereby declared , that if the secretary or his lawful deputy for the time being in this island , shall enter into bond as aforesaid , which said bond shall be lodged as is appointed in an act entituled an act for regulating fees , that then it shall be accounted sufficient to discharge him or them from entring into any other bond , or security required by the acts of this island , any thing herein or in any other act to the contrary notwithstanding . an act for raising a publick impost . we his majesties most dutiful and loyal subjects , the assembly of this his majesties island , being duly sensible , of his majesties extraordinary grace and favour in restoring unto us our ancient form of making laws , and in the great assurance given us of his princely resolution , to apply not only the revenue by us now intended to be raised , but even all his majesties quitt rents arising from lands granted or to be granted within this island , to the support of the government of this his majesties island , and the contingent charges thereof , and to no other use whatsoever , and we likewise taking into our serious consideration the great expence his majesty hath , and may be at in and about the support of the government of this his island , and the contingent charges thereof , as also the great sums of mony required for the reparation of his forts and fortifications now much decayd , and the apparent danger and inconveniency that may accrue by any longer neglect , have cheerfully and unanimously given and granted , and do hereby give and grant , unto his most excellent majesty , his heirs and successors , for and towards the repairing and building forts and fortifications , and for the defraying of the many necessary and contingent charges , in and about the support of the government of this his majesties island , a certain impost on the several liquors and goods hereafter mentioned , and humbly beseech his majesty , to accept the same , and that it may be enacted , and be it enacted by the governour , council , and assembly , and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the authority of the same , that from and after , the first day of october in the year of our lord one thousand six hundred eighty and two , all the following liquors and goods hereafter specified , that shall be imported , shall pay after the rates hereafter mentioned , that is to say , all spanish and madera wines the sum of four pounds per tun , all wines imported , of the growth of the western islands or mixture of the madera wines , with those of the western islands , the sum of ten pounds per tun , every tun of french or rhenish wines three pounds , every gallon of brandy one shilling , every gallon of english spirits three pence every tun of beer or syder eight shillings , every tun of mum or metheglin forty shillings , for every hundred pounds of white sugar ten shillings , for every hundred pounds of muscovado or pameel sugar six shillings , for every pound of indigo six pence , for every pound of tobacco two pence , for every hundred pounds of ginger ten shillings , for every gallon of rum one shilling and six pence , for every hundred pounds of cocoa ten shillings , and so proportionably for a greater of lesser quantity , of the several liquors and goods aforesaid imported into this island by way of merchandize . and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that every merchant or other person importing any wines or other liquors into this island , shall ( being thereunto required by the collector ) within twenty days after landing , make up accounts and give bonds in the penalty of double the value the same shall amount unto , and upon such accompt so to be made up and bond given as aforesaid , shall be allowed after the rate of ten per cent for leakage , and shall have time for payment thereof , as is hereafter mentioned ; that is to say , from the end and expiration of the first two months , from the making up such accompts to pay one third part thereof , and another third part at the end of the fourth month and the remainder at the end of the six months , and that every hogs-head of wine or other liquors , that shall not have full seven inches or above left therein , and every butt or pipe not above nine inches shall be accounted for outs , and the merchant or importer , to pay no custom for the same , and in case of difference that may arise between the importer , or master of the vessel touching leakage on board , and for wines or liquors that shall happen to soure within the aforesaid twenty days , the person or persons so aggrieved , shall have a warrant of survey from the naval officer , who is hereby impowered and required to grant the same , and that returns of such warrants to be granted as aforesaid , shall be made upon oath to the said naval officer , and by him remitted to the collectors office in order to the making up their accompts with the collector , and better proving their damage by ill stowage or otherwise , and in case any such merchant or importer shall ( being thereunto required as aforesaid ) refuse to make up his accompto and give bonds as aforesaid he shall lose the benefit of the ten per cent for leakage , and the time given for the payment of the mony , and if the receiver shall be forced to sue for the same , and do recover , the defendant shall pay treble damages . and it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that if at the entry of any ship or vessel , in the naval office it shall appear by the masters report or otherwise , that he hath imported any madera wines he the said master or the boat-swain shall take the following oath , which the said naval officer is hereby impowered to administer , i a. b. do swear that the wines by me imported , were taken on board at the island of madera , and that i do not directly or indirectly know , but that the said wines , are of the said island , without any mixture of the wines of the growth of any of the western islands ; so help me god. and if the said master or boat-swaine shall resuse to take the abovesaid oath , that then the said wines so imported shall be deemed and taken , to be wines of the growth of the western islands , and shall pay customs accordingly . and it is further enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that if all or any of the aforesaid liquors or goods lyable to the duties aforesaid , be landed and afterwards exported , within twelve months after the importation thereof , that the collector or receiver shall discompt or repay unto the owners or their assigns half the customs of the said liquors , and goods , according to the rates before mentioned , which the collector or receiver is to repay or compt , on the penalty of double the sum for every such refusal , to the party aggrieved . and it is likewise further enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that all ships and vessels coming from any place to the northward of the tropick of cancer to trade within this island , shall respectively pay for every tun such ship or vessel shall contain , and for every time they arrive , one pound of good and new gun-powder , and also all ships and vessels trading any way to the southward of the tropick of cancer , shall respectively pay , for every tun such ship or vessel shall contain , one pound of good and new gun-powder , once every year and no more , the same to be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for the publick use of this his majesties island . and it it is likewise further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that the collector or receiver appointed for the receipt of such gunpowder shall receive the same in specie , and not presume in lieu thereof , to receive mony or any other consideration whatsoever , upon penalty of twenty pounds currant mony for every such offence . and it is likewise enacted by the authority aforesaid , that if any master or commander of any ship or ships , merchant factor , purser , mariner , or any other person whatsoever , without the presence of the collector , or some person appointed by him , or notice given him , or before his or their regular entry , made with the said collector , or payment of the duty or security given by bond as aforesaid , shall after sun-set , and before sunrising put on shoar , or put into any boat or vessel in order to landing any of the liquors , or any goods contained or mentioned in this act , with an intent to defraud his majesty of his customs for the same , the said liquors and goods shall be forfeited , two third parts to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors for and towards the support of the government of this island and the contingent charges thereof , and the other third part to the informer or seizer , be it the receiver his agents , or any other person whatsoever , the same to be recovered by bill , plaint or information , in any court of record within this island , any thing in this act or any other to the contrary notwithstanding , and all manner of persons , are hereby required to be aiding and assisting to the receiver , his agents , the informer , discoverer and seizer of such liquors or goods so landed or unladen contrary to the true intent and meaning of this act. and it is hereby further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that it shall and may be lawful for the receiver , his agents , the informer or discoverer , by vertue of a warrant from the commander in chief , or any of his majesties justices of the peace , to that purpose first obtained , with one constable or more , to search according to law all manner of houses cellers warehouses , and shops , for such liquors and goods as they or any of them shall be informed , were carryed there to be concealed in prejudice , to the true meaning of this act , and such liquors and goods so found , shall be forfeited and condemned in manner and form before mentioned ; provided that the search be made within three days after information . and it is likewise further enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid that during the continuation of this act the collector or his deputy give his or their attendance at his office , from nine to eleven of the clock in the morning , and from two to four in the afternoon , upon penalty of twenty pounds currant mony of this island for every default . be it likewise enacted and ordained by the authority aforesaid , that all and every person and persons whatsoever in this island , which from and after the making of this act , shall have or receive from the governour or commander in chief of this island a licence to sell and retail any strong liquors in any part of this island , shall pay for the said licence , and every year for renewing of the same , the sum of five pounds currant mony , to our soveraign lord the king his heirs and successors . and whosoever shall presume to sell by retail any of the strong liquors as aforesaid , without such license had and obtained as aforesaid , shall forfeit for every such offence , the sum of ten pounds currant money of this island . and it is hereby enacted and declared by the authority aforesaid , that if any new setler or comer shall import into this island any rum , sugar , tobacco , indico , cocoa , ginger , or cotton , by himself , or any other person or persons for his or their better conveniency in settling and planting , and shall not only declare , such his or their intentions upon oath before the collector , who is hereby impowered to administer the same at the time of importation , but shall likewise make the same appear , within three months after his or their arrival , by some visible effect , which he or they shall shew , in order to it , that then the same being sufficiently made known and appear to the said collector or receiver , the said goods shall not be chargeable with any duty or customs , any thing in this act to the contrary notwithstanding , and the said new comers to enjoy the aforesaid priviledge for three months after their arrival . provided also , that it shall and may be lawful , for any master or merchant of any ship or vessel to land or put on shore , any of the said goods , without being further liable to pay any duty or custom for any part or parcel thereof , more than what he shall sell or dispose of within this island , any thing in this act to the contrary notwithstanding . and it is further enacted , by the authority aforesaid , that as well his majesty's quit-rents , arising from lands granted or to be granted , within this island , and every part and parcel thereof , as also all and every part of the revenue , hereby granted , or which hereafter shall grow due by vertue of this act , or any thing herein contained , shall be applied and appropriated , and are hereby appropriated to the support of the government , of this his majesty's island , and the contingent charges thereof , and to no other use , intent or purpose whatsoever . and that his majesty's forts and fortifications within this island , may for the future be kept in better repair , and if his majesty in his great wisdom shall think convenient , other new ones may be built : be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that the sum of one thousand pounds per annum , arising as aforesaid , be , during the term of seven years , annually paid and appropriated unto the repairing , building and rebuilding of his majesty's forts and fortifications , within this island , and to no other use , intent and purpose whatsoever , and the same is hereby appropriated accordingly . and it is hereby further enacted , by the authority aforesaid , that the collector or receiver-general of this island , for the time being , or he that shall officiate in his room or stead , shall annually , during the term aforesaid , out of the money received by vertue of this act , charge down the said one thousand pounds so as aforesaid appropriated , to the particular accompt of the fortifications , and shall keep a distinct book of accompts for the same , which book of accompts , shall be free and open at all office-hours , for any person to view the same , without paying any manner of fee therefore ; and that the said receiver-general or his deputy shall ( when and as often as thereunto required , by the governour , council or assembly when sitting , or to any committee by them or either of them to be appointed ) give in upon oath ( which oath they are hereby empowered to administer ) a just and true accompt of the particular disbursements out of the thousand pounds per annum , so appropriated as aforesaid , and that the said receiver-general shall with good and sufficient security , such as shall be approved of by the governour and a quorum of the council , enter into bond in the penalty of five thousand pounds ( which bond shall lie in the secretary's office , to be sued , in manner and form , as is directed in an act , requiring all masters of ships and vessels to give security in the secretaries office ) under the condition hereafter expressed ; that is to say , the condition of this obligation is such , that if the above bound a.b. collector or receiver-general , shall well and truly accompt for as often as he shall be thereunto required , by the governour for the time being , and a quorum of the council , or a committee of the assembly , all and every such sum and sums of money , which either have or shall come to his hands , either by vertue of an act , intituled , an act for raising a publick impost , made at an assembly held by prorogation the fourth day of october , in the thirty third tear of his majesties reign , or an act , intituled , an act for raising a publick impost , made at an assembly held by prorogation the twenty first day of september , in the thirty fourth year of his majesty's reign that now is , or any other act or acts whatsoever , as also well and truly to pay the sum of one thousand pounds yearly and every year , for and during the time the aforesaid act , made in the thirty fourth year of the king's reign , intituled , an act for raising a publick impost , shall be in force , by warrant of the governour , with the advice and consent of a quorum of the council , for and towards the repairing and building fortifications , and also pay all other sums of money , according to the intent and meaning and to the uses mentioned and directed in the said acts , that then this present obligation to be void , otherwise to remain in full force and vertue . and in case the said collector or receiver-general or his deputies shall presume to act in the said office , longer than twenty days after the passing of this act before he hath given the security , with the condition aforesaid , he or they shall for every such offence , forfeit the sum of one thousand pounds currant money of this island . one third part thereof to be to our soveraign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island and the contingent charges thereof , one other third to the informer , or him that shall sue for the same , and the other third to the poor of the parish , where the said informer shall be resident , to be recovered in any court of record within this island , by bill , plaint , or information , wherein no essoin , protection , wager of law , or non vult ulterius prosequi shall be admitted or allowed , any thing in this act or any other seeming to the contrary notwithstanding . and that the said collector , receiver , or his deputy , shall not at any time hereafter , upon any pretence whatsoever , pay the said one thousand pounds per annum , or any part or parcel thereof , or any other sum or sums of money whatsoever , arising from the quit-rents , or by vertue of this act , unless he or they shall first have or receive , for his or their authority a warrant under the hand and seal of the governour , or commander in chief for the time being , with the advice and consent of the council expressing the sum to be paid , and the end and purpose whereunto the same is or shall be applied , and in case the collector , receiver-general or his deputy , shall contrary to the true intent and meaning hereof , pay any sum or sums of money whatsoever , or if any other person or persons whatsoever , shall misapply any of the moneys so as aforesaid appropriated contrary to the true intent and meaning of this act the offender or offenders , shall forfeit and pay treble the sum by him or them so paid or misapplied . be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid , that all forfeitures and penalties , mentioned in this act , and not declared how they shall be disposed of , and in what manner to be recovered , shall be one half to our sovereign lord the king , his heirs and successors , for and towards the support of the government of this island , and the contingent charges thereof , and the other half to the informer , to be recovered by bill , plaint or information , in any court of record within this island , wherein no essoin , protection , wager of law , non vult ulterius prosequi , or injunction shall be allowed , any thing in this act , or any other to the contrary , in any wise notwithstanding . and it is hereby enacted and declared , by the authority aforesaid , that from and after the first day of this present october , an act intituled , an act for raising a publick impost , made at an assembly , held at the town of st. jago de la vega , the fourth day of october , in the three and thirtieth year of his majesty's reign that now is , and all and every clause and clauses therein contained be and are hereby repealed , to all intents and purposes whatsoever . and it is hereby enacted and declared , by the authority aforesaid , that this present act remain and continue in force , for the term of seven years , and no longer . which laws having upon the perusal of the right honourable the lords of the committee of trade and foreign plantations , been presented to his majesty at this board , his majesty was graciously pleased ( with the advice of his privy council ) to approve and confirm the same for the space of seven years , to commence from the first of october last preceding the date hereof , and pursuant to his royal pleasure thereupon signisied and expressed , the said laws are hereby approved and consirmed for the space of seven years accordingly . john nicholas . finis . law-books printed for , or sold by charles harper , at the flower-de-luce , over against st. dunstan's-church in fleet-street . folio , law. the statutes at large , from magna charta , to this present year 1682. in paragraphs and sections , with references to the books of the law , and an exact table ; by joseph keble of gray's-inn esq in folio . an assistance to justices of the peace , for the easier performance of their duty ; the first part thereof being a collection of all the particular clauses of statutes from magna charta to this time , that does any ways concern juslices of the peace ; in the other part the whole office of a justice is methodically digested ; with the newest and most approved presidents , under proper heads ; the whole accommodated to present use . by joseph keble of gray's-inn esq a collection of entries , &c by william rastal ; fol. the lord coke's book of entries . — his commentary on littleton , being the first part of the institutes . — his commentary on magna charta , &c. or the 2 d part of the institutes . — his pleas of the crown , or 3d. part of the institutes . — his jurisdiction of courts , or 4th . part of the institutes . — his 11 reports in french , with a table , and the 12th and 13th in english . — his 11 reports compleat in english , with a table . an abridgment of cases , and resolutions of law , contained as well in the law-books , statutes and records , as of modern judgments in the courts of westminster . by h. roll , serjeant at law : published by the l. c. j. hales . the year books , in to volumes , the last edition , with new notes and tables to them all . origines juridiciales ; oran account of the english laws , courts of justice , forms of tryal , punishment in cases criminal , law-writers , law-books , grants and settlements of estates , &c. also a chronology of the lord chancellors , keepers , treasurers , justices itinerant , judges , barons , masters of the rolls , kings attorneys , and sollicitors and serjeants at law. by sir william dugdale , kt. the law of common assurances , touching deeds in general , viz. feoffinents , gifts , grants , leases , with two alphabetical tables . by william sheppard , esq the country justice ; containing the practice of the justices of the peace , as well in as out of sessions . by m. dalton , with large additions , printed 1682. modern reports ; by william style of the inner-temple esq actions for slanders ; by william sheppard esq reports of h. roll serj. at law , in two volumes , in the kings-bench , in the time of king james . prynn's animadversions on the lord coke's 4th institutes . sir henry yelverton's reports in the king-bench , in the time of queen elizabeth and king james . published by judge wilde . the reports of sir john davies , with a table . the reports of the learned judge , sir henry hobart ; the fourth edition corrected and amended . the reports of sir george crook kt. in the time of q. elizabeth , k. james , and k. charles the first ; collected in french by himself , revised and published in english by sir harbottle grimstone , master of the rolls ; the third edition , in three volumes . this book is now reprinted with references to all the late reports . reports in the kings-bench , in the time of king charles the first . by jo. latch of the middle-temple . reports of the late reverend judge th. owen esq one of the justices of the common pleas ; with tables . reports and arguments , in the time of k. charles the second , of that learned judge sir jo. vaughan , lato chief justice of the common pleas. the reports of sir james dyer , in the time of h. s. ed. 6. phil. and mary , and q. elix . with a table . the reports of the lord keeper littleton , in the time of king charles the first ; with tables . the office and authority of sheriffs , gathered out of the statutes and books of the common law ; corrected and very much enlarged by mich. dalton ; with a supplement of all matters relating to sheriffs , since mr. dalton's time . formulaebene placitandi , a book of entries , containing variety of choice presidents , of counts , declarations , informations , pleas in bar and abatement , continuances , replications , rejoynders , issues , verdicts , judgments after verdict , utlawries , recoveries and avowrics , and other pleadings , in real , personal and mixt actions , of general use to all students in the law ; the 2 d edition corrected and amended . by william brown , a clerk in the court of common pleas , in two parts , in fol. mr. thompson's book of entries , in sol . law , quarto . the grand abridgment of the common and statute-law of england , alphabetically digested , under proper heads and titles , very useful and beneficial for all persons whatsoever , that desire to have any knowledge in the said laws ; in four parts . by william sheppard esq doctrina platitandi , or the art of good pleading , shewing where , and in what cases , and by what persons , pleas as well real as personal , or mixt , may be properly pleaded . by s. e. serjeant at law. the compleat clerk , containing the best forms of all sorts of conveyances and assurances , and other instruments now in use and practice ; and forms for bills and answers in chancery , &c. with the names of . men and women in latin ; also trades and occupations , counties , bishopricks , &c. placita latinè rediviva , a book of entries containing approved presidents of counts , declarations , bars , replications , &c. as well real as personal . the reports of the learned and judicious clerk , j. gouldsborough esq in the time of queen elizabeth . a treatise of wills and testaments , fit to be understood by all men , that they may know , whether , whereof , and how to make them . by h. swineborne , judge of the prerogative court at york ; the fourth edition very much enlarged , law , octavo . an abridgment of the statutes in force and use from magna charta till this present year 1682. by edmond wingats of gray's-inn , esq fetzherbert's natura brevium , corrected and amended ; printed 1676. the terms of the law , with large additions . the compleat justice , being a compendious and exact collection out of all such statutes and authors as may any ways concern the office of a justice of peace , very much enlarged and carefully brought down to the year 1681. with a proper charge to be given at the quarter sessions . by r. chamberlain of gray's-inn , esq fragmenta autiquitatis , ancient tenures of england , and jocular customs of some mannors , made publick for the diversion of some , and instruction of others . by t. blunt of the inuer-temple , esq the compleat attorney , and guide for solicitors in the courts of chancery , kings-bench , common-plea : , and exchequer , with the manner of their proceedings in any action , real , personal , or mixt , ( from the original to the execution ) with the fees of the officers in those courts ; to which is added , the practice of the court ; in london , and ecclesiastical courts . the office of coroners and sheriffs , together with an casie and plain method for the keeping of court-leets , court-barons , and hundred-courts ; by j. wilkinson of bernards-inn . law , or a discourse thereof , in four books ; by sir henry finch , kt. in english . de laudibus legum angliae ; by sir john forteseue , lord chancellor to king henry the sixth : whereunto is added the two sums of sir ralph de hengham , commonly called hengham magna and hengbam parva , with notes on both ; by the famous antiquary john selden , esq tractatus de legibus & consuctudinibus regni anghae tempore regis henrii secundi ; compositus authore randulpho d' glanvilla . history , &c. in fol. 1. the history of q. elizabeth ; by w. camden king at arms ; the third edition with a new table . 2. the history of the grecian war ; by thucidides ; translated out of the original greek , by thomas hobbs of malmsbury . 3. dugdale's monasticon auglicanum ; in three volumes , with tables . 4. — origines judiciales . 5. the history of the life , reign and death of edward the second , king of england , and lord of ireland . 6. machiavel's works compleat , with his letter in vindication of his writings . 7. dugdale's history of the baronage of england ; in two parts . 8. the historical tracts of the reverend peter heylyn , d. d. with an account of the life of the author , never before published ; and an exact table to the whole . 9. the works of mr. abraham cowley ; the ict. and 2 d parts . 10. the whole body of ancient and modern architecture ; by john evelyn , esq adorned with 51 copper plates . where also are sold all sorts of law-books , and most sorts of english-books . finis . 