AN ACCURATE DESCRIPTION OF AMERICA. (continued 5)

Smith’s Voyage.

But much worse success had Captain John Smith, who weigh’d Anchor Anno 1614. with two Ships, fitted out by several Merchants in London, for New-England, and on the Island Monachigga to load Copper, Gold, and other Minerals that were to be had there, and also to fish for Whales: But there were no such Minerals to be found there, nor any Whales to be taken on the Coast, because the time of the Year was past; so that he return’d home without Success. However, not long after, they undertook the same Expedition a second time, but with worse Fortune; for being gotten in sight of Virginia, he was treacherously set upon, and taken by the French, who accus’d him, that he had destroy’d the Plantations in Nova Francia, and unless he would make satisfaction for the Damage, they threatned him with death. He was carried Prisoner to Rochel, in a French Ship; but not far from thence surpris’d by a mighty Storm, Smith finding an opportunity, leap’d into the Boat, and driving betwixt the Waves, at last, half dead, was thrown upon the Island of Oleron, whom afterwards, having lost all, an English Ship took in, and brought to his Native Countrey.

Sect. XV. Netherland Expedition by Jaques Mahu, and Simon de Cordes.

Mahu’s Voyage.

Five Ships being fitted out at Rotterdam, the Command of them was given to Jaques Mahu and Simon de Cordes, who on the twenty seventh of June, Anno 1598. weigh’d Anchor from the Goree, and sail’d on an immense Voyage; at last landing at the Island St. Jago, they won a strong Castle there, and took two Barques; but at last Articled with the Portuguese, that they might undisturb’d supply themselves with Fresh Water, yet they, as if they minded no Agreements, whilst the Dutch were filling their Casks, came down upon them with two hundred Horse, each having a Foot-Soldier behind him; but the Hollanders made so stout resistance, that they put them all to flight.

The City of St. Jago, which gives Denomination to the whole Island, is built long-wise, having a convenient Haven, like a Crescent: Through the City glides a River, on both sides of which, beyond the Town, arise several high Mountains: That part which faces the Sea, hath Fortifications, defended with strong Bulwarks. The Portuguese had brought all their Guns to bear towards the Sea, to sink the Holland Ships, which they invited thither under pretence of kindness; but a great Storm hindred the Fleet, that they could not Anchor at the appointed place; onely two of the Ships sail’d pretty near, but not within Shot.

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From hence steering to the Desolate Island Brava, they saw nothing but five ruin’d Houses, the Door of one stopp’d up with great Stones, which being taken away, was found full of Turkish Wheat, which prov’d a great kindness to the Sea-men.

Mahu dies.

Cordes his Voyage.

Mean while the Admiral Mahu died, and his Body put into a Chest fill’d up with Stones, was thrown over-board; so that Simon des Cordes carrying the Flag, steer’d his Course to Guinee, there to refresh himself; for most of his Men were so weakned by the Scurvey, that they were scarce able to hand the Sails.

Strange King in Guinee.

Arriving at their intended Port, the Sick were carried ashore; and the Vice-Admiral Beuningen, being conducted by a French Guide, went to the Vice-Roy of that Countrey, who sat on a low Bench, with a Sheeps-skin under his Feet, in a Violet-colour’d Cloth Suit, without any Linnen, Shirt, Shoes, or Stockins; on his Head a Cap made of yellow, red, and blue Eastern Cloth; his Face whitened with Ashes, shew’d in several places its natural blackness, appearing through the Colours; about his Neck a Collar or Chain of Glass Beads: Behind him sat his Nobles, with Cocks Feathers on their Heads, and their Skins painted Red.

Beuningen plac’d by the King on a Mat, complain’d to him, That the Guineans fled from him where-ever he came, though in Friendship, to barter European Commodities with them, against Fruits, Poultrey, Sheep, and other Provisions: Whereupon the King promis’d to furnish him therewith, and invited Beuningen to Dinner. After some stay, the Kings Wives entred the Palace, a very mean and ill-favour’d Building, more like a great Barn than a Kings House, and plac’d a kind of nasty Trough on the Ground, in which lay nothing but some wild Herbs, and a piece of a smoak’d Sea-Calf; and though he was a Person of the largest size, and corpulent, yet he eat sparingly. Beuningen, though exceeding hungry, found little rellish in such kind of Meats; wherefore spreading a Napkin, his Attendants brought him some Bisket and 112Spanish Wine, whereof after the King had tasted, he lik’d so well the rellish, that it rock’d him asleep, whilst Beuningen walk’d to the Sea-side to refresh himself; but the Guineans coming about him, he was forc’d to return to the King, who waking at the noise, appear’d highly incens’d at his People, and took Beuningen into his House: However the Subjects, notwithstanding the Kings Commands, when Beuningen was sent into a neighboring Hut, kept Watch about it all Night: The next Morning early an old Woman entred, muttering to her self, and went out and in to Beuningen three times one after another, knocking on a Box not unlike a Pair of Bellows, out of which flew abundance of Dust about Beuningen, which caus’d a great Laughter amongst the Guineans. The King also coming to him, presented him with two Goats, and four Hens, and so conducted him back to the Ships.

Bloody Sea, very strange.

Salvages in the Straights of Magellan.

Beuningen seeing that there was no good to be done, set sail from thence, and coming before the River La Plata in America, it appear’d Blood-red. Out of the Water which was taken up in Buckets, started a sort of Insects like Fleas, which caus’d a strange and sad Distemper amongst the Sea-men, that when any Meat was offer’d to them, so soon as ever they put it to their Mouths, they would fall down backwards in a swoon, foaming and frothing at the Mouth, and turning up the White of their Eyes, die distracted. Suffering under this Disaster, they hasted from thence with all speed, and sailing into the Straights of Magellan they kill’d above fourteen hundred Penguyins, which is a Bird that preys on Fish, and lives in Holes under Ground; they somewhat resemble a Goose, onely they stand more upright, and are double-crested, with two plumy Combs. Coming to an Anchor in the Green-Bay, there arose a great Storm, which continued several days, so that they were forc’d to moor their Vessels with four Anchors, extremely afflicted both with Hunger and Cold, preserving themselves alive by eating young Grout, at that time not above a span high from the Ground; but this course Food bred an incurable Dropsie, that posted them on to a sudden death. Afterwards, when the Weather grew more pleasant, the Inhabitants being Gyants, most of them eleven Foot high, grew more troublesom, oftentimes assailing them, and throwing Darts pointed like Harping-Irons, at which they were very expert. Their Salvage Natures may appear by their Dealings with the dead Hollanders, cutting off their Heads, and bruising them to pieces, sticking Darts through their Hearts, and cutting off their Privities.

A wild Woman.

At last the Fleet getting into the South Sea, were by stress of Weather separated one from another: Two Ships, being the Faith, and the Good Tydings, were driven back into the Straights of Magellan, where they suffer’d the uttermost extremity of Hunger: Here they took a wild Woman, and two Children, who being of a sallow Complexion, had a great hanging Belly, a wide Mouth, crooked Legs, long Heels, and Breasts like Cows Udders; about her Neck a String of Snail-shells, and upon her Back a Beasts Skin, fastned about her Neck with the Sinews of it; her Food nought else but live Fowls: The same Diet the Children fed upon: The youngest being but six Months old, had his Mouth full of Teeth, and ran without any help: The eldest they carried to Amsterdam; but having kept the Woman aboard two Nights, they gave her several Trifles, and set her ashore. Here they found old Ice in the middle of Summer, four Foot thick.

Beuningen lingred in the Straights of Magellan, and being tired out with Hunger, Cold, and Storms, return’d home; and had they not by accident 113taken abundance of Coneys, they had all perish’d. Above two Years had this unhappy Voyage lasted, when they arriv’d at their Native Countrey, with six and thirty Men, being all that remain’d alive of a hundred and five.

Sect. XVI. The Expedition of Oliver van Noord.

Porto Desire.

Two Months after Mahu, Oliver Van Noord set sail with four Ships, and two Sea-Dogs. hundred forty eight Men, from the Maes. Having reach’d the Princes Island, he lost seven of his Men by the Treachery of the Portuguese; and Anchoring before the City Javeiro, he was no better entertain’d by the same Nation: Here having a Rencounter, and both Sides receiving considerable Loss, he steer’d for St. Sebastian, a fruitful Island, producing an Herb very wholesom against the Scurvey: Here the Sea-men found great store of Sea-Mews, and Parrots, besides several sorts of delicious Fish. The approaching Winter advis’d them from entring the Straights of Magellan so late; wherefore they judg’d it best to seek a convenient Harbor, to put their Sick ashore to refresh themselves. The Island St. Hellen, for its fruitfulness, seem’d to be the most convenient for this purpose; but a great Storm preventing them, they came to St. Clara, where taking in Fresh Water, they cast Anchor in Porto Desire. In this Haven they saw a kind of Sea-Dogs, whose fore-parts being overgrown with long Hair, seem’d like a Lyon, and the Feet like Mens Hands; over their Eyes and Upper-lips grew black and white Hair, which in Stormy Weather stands staring upright, but in Calm, lies flat and smooth; they Urine backwards, sleep very soundly, and cast their Young every Month: Their Flesh well-boyl’d prov’d a savory Dish.

Strange Tombs.

Van Noord going ashore here, saw not a Man; but only Burying-places on high Rocks, built of red Stones, and adorn’d both within and without with Bowes, Arrows, and other strange things: Under the Heads of the Dead lay four-square Shells, and other things artificially carv’d. Curiosity made them desirous to make a further search into the Countrey; wherefore he rowed during a whole Tide up a River; and when their Boat ran aground at the time of Ebb, he walk’d several Leagues up into the Countrey, where he saw nothing but Deer, Buffles, and Ostriches: and because he saw no People, he judg’d the Coast to be uninhabited; but returning again, he found it otherwise; for the Sea-men, though commanded to stay in the Boat, which lay in the middle of the River, went ashore, where they were so fiercely set upon by thirty of the Natives, that three of them were kill’d, and another wounded in the Leg. These People are very strong and Salvage, with painted Faces, and long Hair; but after this Encounter, they saw no more of them.

But Van Noord having spent fourteen Months in search, and lost a hundred Men, set sail again with three Ships; for one of them, being the Unity, he burnt at the Island Clara, where he Winter’d, because of a great Leak which could not be stopp’d. Here they brought five thousand Fowls aboard, which much increased their Stock of Provisions.

From hence parting the Wide Ocean, into the Straights of Magellan, four times the Fleet attempted to go into the South-Sea, and was as often driven back by cross Weather into the Straights; but the fifth time prov’d more successful; for having got through, and left the Straights a handsom way astern, they 114discover’d two Islands, from one of which the Sea-men going aland, brought four Boys and two Girls; who afterward instructed in their Tongue, inform’d them concerning the scituation of the Countreys thereabout.

Philip-Stadt forsaken through famine.

After that, the Fleet Sail’d into Hungers Haven, where they found the ruines of the deserted Philip-Stadt, which Captain Thomas Candish had seen fourteen years before, fortifi’d with four Bulwarks; but now onely some Houses, a Church, and a Gibbet were standing: Four hundred Spaniards built that City, as a Key to the Straights of Magellan. But all their Provisions being spent in three years time, and no relief coming from Spain, and what they Sow’d expecting the hopes of a Harvest, the Salvages coming down by night destroy’d; which caus’d so great a Famine to rage amongst them, that many dy’d, not so much as putting off their Clothes, who lying in the Houses unbury’d, occasion’d such a stench in the City, that the remainder fled into the Field; where they liv’d a whole year by the Fruits of the Trees, Herbs, and Roots: At last, three and twenty of them, amongst which were two Women remaining yet alive, resolv’d to travel to the River La Plata and accordingly set forward, but what became of them could never yet be heard, only one Ferdinando that was of that company, accidentally wandring from the rest, happen’d to light upon Candish’s Fleet.

Mocha, what kind of Island.

Here Van Noord set on Shore the Vice-Admiral Jacob Claeszoon Ilpendam, for some crimes which he had committed; and leaving him behind, Sail’d from thence thorow the South-Sea along the Coast of Chili and Mocha; which Island, of a considerable bigness, rises in the middle with a forked Mountain, from which a convenient River comes flowing down into the Countrey.

Cica, a strange Drink.

The Inhabitants conducted the Hollanders to their Village, consisting of about fifty Houses built of Straw, but were forbid to go into their Huts: Upon the Mens call the Women appear’d, which being divided into three parties, humbly kneel’d down before them; and soon after an old Woman brought an Earthen Can full of Cica, a Liquor made of Mays, whose extracted Juyce, boyl’d and put into Tubs, ferments like our Beer or Ale, with a cap of Barm, with which they treated the Hollanders, who drinking moderately, were well refresh’d; but the Natives will ply this Liquor, till they make themselves Distracted, and are mad Drunk.

Van Noord takes a Spanish Ship.

From hence Van Noord steer’d his course to Sancta Maria, where in his way he took a Spanish Ship, call’d Buon Jesus, that is, Good Jesus, and receiv’d intelligence from the Prisoners, that the Admiral Simon de Cordes, with twenty three Men was kill’d by the Americans on the Promontory Lavapia, being the head Land or Point opposite to St. Maries; that a year since, tydings were brought to Lima of his Fleet; so that they had made all things ready to withstand him. But Van Noord hinder’d by strong contrary Winds, not able to reach Sancta Maria, stood directly for St. Jago, in whose Haven lay a great Spanish Ship full of Indians, and two other going in, which two he set on Fire, and the third he Tow’d towards his Fleet; repenting extremely that he had given liberty, and set Francisco de Ivarro Commander of the Buon Jesus ashore; because he afterwards understood from the Spanish Pilot, that Ivarra threw ten thousand two hundred pound weight of Gold, pack’d in fifty two Cases, over-board, when he observ’d that he was like to loose his Ship.

The Fleet Sailing forward came to an Anchor before the Thieves-Island, whose Inhabitants are very light Finger’d, go stark naked, and are of great strength; they found the Women much Disfigur’d, their Noses, Lips, and Cheek-bones eaten by the French Pox.

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Performs great things.

In the Bay La Baya, the Dutch Admiral, with a Spanish Flag on his top-Mast, sent one of his Sea-men in a Fryers garb ashore, if possible under that disguise, to get Provisions; which falling out according to their Design, they were supply’d with all manner of Victuals: After that, the Hollanders burnt five Villages on the Island Capull; took a Chinesy Vessel, one Spanish Barque, and a Carvel Laden with Brandy from Cocos; and after a great and bloody Fight sunk the Admiral of the Manilla’s, and so at last with various fortunes arriv’d at Rotterdam, having in three years encompass’d the World.

Sect. XVIa. The Expedition of George Van Spilbergen.

Anno 1614. the eighth of August, the East-India Company of the United Netherlands set out seven Ships under the Command of George Spilbergen, who coming to Cape St. Vincent, and engaging with the Portuguese, took one of their Ships, and so proceeded on his Voyage to the Straights of Magellan, but by a huge Storm, the Fleet was separated. Amongst those that were scatter’d was the good Ship call’d Meruw, in which some of the crew had conspir’d to have kill’d the Master, and seiz’d the Vessel; but he having some inkling thereof, set so stoutly upon two of the chief Contrivers with his drawn Hanger, that he forc’d them to leap over-board, and as stoutly ordering the rest, set all to rights.

Strange Corps.

But Spilbergen Landing on one of the Penguyn Islands, found two Dead Bodies just cover’d with Earth, about their Necks was a Chain of glistering Snail Shells neatly strung; the Grave stuck full of Bowes and Arrows, was pleasant to look upon, between several high Mountains, whose tops lay bury’d in Snow: The Fleet came out of the Straights of Magellan, but not without great danger, for the South-Sea much disturb’d by tempestuous Weather, seem’d to raise its 116Waves up to the Sky, so that they had enough to do, from being ingag’d among the Rocks: But at last with great difficulty, wonderfully escaping all danger, they Anchor’d before La Mocha, an Island which on the North side lies low, and on the South defended by Rocks.

Spilbergen in great danger.

Strange sheep.

Spilbergen seeing abundance of Men standing on the Shore, Row’d thither to Barter for Merchandize, amongst them was a Sheep with a long Neck, bunch-Back’d like a Camel, a little Mouth, and long Legs; which Beast serves them in stead of Horses, to carry their burthens, and perform their Tillage. The Americans breed up these Sheep every where, by reason of the extraordinary benefit they receive from them, some of them keeping no less than eighteen hundred. Their Shepherds ride upon a Beast almost like an Ox, and carry in their hands Copper-plates, hung round about with Bells, which they shake, making a different noise when their Sheep shall go in or out; and on their Heads wear Feathers like Coronets, standing upright.

St. Maries burnt.

And also Val Parysa.

From thence, Spilbergen departing, Landed at last on the Island of St. Mary, where he burnt all the Spanish Villages; as he did also in Val Parysa.

After going ashore, in the Haven Quintero, he saw abundance of Wild Horses drinking out of a Rivulet, supply’d with fresh Water from an adjoyning steep Mountain; so soon as they espy’d Men, they instantly running away, were seen no more.

Bloody fight between the Hollanders and Spanish Fleet.

Having left Quintero, and spent a Moneth in Sailing farther, they discry’d eight great Ships; whereupon the Prisoners inform’d them, that it was the Spanish Fleet, of which Roderigo de Mendoza was Admiral, fitted out on purpose to fight Spilbergen, whose coming (as we said) was known a year before. At midnight Mendoza Boarded Spilbergen, but was so roughly receiv’d, that he was forc’d to Retreat with the loss of the Ship St. Francisco. At Day-break, the Holland Admiral fir’d at Mendoza, who answering with equal courage, occasion’d a smart Engagement, wherein the Spaniards were so hard beset, that they put forth a White Flag; but it was immediately taken in again by the Commanders aboard, choosing rather to die, than surrender, because they had mock’d at Mendoza, when he hinted the difficulty of the Enterprize in the Grand Peruvian Councel, saying, They went out, onely to take a few disabled Hollanders, and tying them hand and feet, carry them to Execution. Yet their high and proud Stomachs prov’d very fatal to them, for afterwards totally routed and put to flight, most of them sunk by the way.

Calyow de Lima.

This done, the Hollanders victoriously Sail’d to Calyow de Lima, having a convenient Haven: The City adorn’d with curious Houses and Temples, is strengthen’d by a Platform, Planted with great Guns towards the Sea, and the Shore was guarded by eight Troops of Horse, and four thousand Foot; whereupon Spilbergen, who was yet to go so great a Voyage, judg’d it no way convenient to adventure the loss of all on the good or bad event of a Battel, especially being so much over-power’d by the number of the Enemy: Wherefore seeing no hopes of Victory, setting forward to Guarma, he got some fresh Provisions.

Peyta burnt.

Against the City Peyta, he play’d his Cannon with such fury, that the Townsmen deserted the place, which he observing, set it on fire, and Sail’d to Aquapulque, where from the Fort at first the Spaniards fired some Guns at them; but soon after changing humor, they came to an Accommodation, furnishing the Hollanders with convenient Provisions. Passing on, and coming to Selaques, both Natives and Spaniards having suffer’d some of the Hollanders to Land; after 117set upon them treacherously in a Thicket, but to their little advantage, for they made so good a Defence, that the Assailants not able to bear the brunt, fled with great loss.

Spilbergen Sailing from hence to the Manilla’s, waited there for the Spanish Admiral Juan de Silva, who had made (as was reported) great preparations for him long since; but seeing it was in vain, at last he return’d to Zealand where he came to an Anchor, loaden with Riches, in the middle of Summer, Anno 1617.

Sect. XVII. The Expedition of William Corneliszon Schouten, and Jacob Le Maire.

Mabrabomma, what manner of Isle.

Some Merchants that were call’d the Austrian Company, fitted out one Schouten in great danger. Ship with sixty five, and a Ketch with two and twenty Sea-men, giving Incredible many Eggs. the Command thereof to the Captains Schouten and Le Maire: Anno 1615. they Great Corps. Weigh’d Anchor from the Texel; the first took a view of one of the three Ketch burnt. Islands, call’d Mabrabomma, lying before Cape Sierra Leona. This Island appearing Strange Horn. a great height out of the Sea, was not inhabited, they seeing onely three Wild Buffles, many Wild Cats, Birds which bark’d like Dogs, Wild Palm-Trees, Lemon-Trees, Turtles, Crocodiles, Partridges, and Storks: From hence, passing by the dangerous Shelf Abrolhos, they ran into Porto Desire, where on the Rocks they found abundance of Eggs, and Spierings, or Smelts, and Spiregrass sixteen Inches long, wherefore they call’d that Inlet Spierings-Bay. Their Sloop also brought two Sea-Lions, and one hundred and fifty Penguins from the Penguin Isles, having Sail’d two Leagues up the River; in the interim, the ground being meer Stone, and their Anchors coming home, the great Ship drove against a Rock, and at Ebbing Water, broke off the outermost Planks and Iron-Work, and the Ketch also striking on a high Shelf, was at low Ebb two Fathom with her Keel above the Water, and had without peradventure been overset, and bilg’d, but a fresh North-West Wind kept her upright, yet at last, the Weather growing calm, she lean’d, but the Tide coming in very fast, set her afloat, so that she was miraculously sav’d; then setting Sail again to King’s-Island, they found so many Eggs of black Mews, that one without stirring from his place, might reach above fifty Nests, and in each of them at least three Eggs, which they carry’d aboard by thousands. Their Boat Rowing Southerly down the River, found some Ostriches, and Beasts not unlike Stags, but with exceeding long Necks. On the Hills lay Stones heap’d one upon another, which removing, they found Dead Bodies of eleven Foot long; here they spent their time in cleansing their Ships, and new Sheathing the Ketch, but as they were Tallowing, the Flame accidentally got between the Crevisses which immediately taking Fire, in a short time consum’d it to Ashes: The great Ship had gotten a Horn in her Bow, seven Foot under Water; this Horn being firm without any hollowness, and not unlike a great Elephants Tooth, struck thorow two Ashen and one Oaken Plank, sticking in a Rib of the like Wood, and yet above half a Foot remain’d out to be seen.

Great Mews.

At length Schouten Weighing Anchor from Porto Desire, and Sailing to four and fifty Degrees Southern Latitude, met whole Shoals of Whales, insomuch, that he was fain to Tacque to and again to shun them. Sea-Pies, bigger than Swans, came flying in great numbers aboard, suffering themselves to be taken 118with the hand. On the North-side they spy’d a high and scraggy Coast spreading it self to the East South-East, which they call’d, The States Countrey, that which lay to the Westward of it, Maurice of Nassau, the Islands in fifty seven Degrees Barnevield’s Isles, and the sharp Point in which lay the Snowy Mountains, Southward of the Magellan Straights end, the Cape of Hoorn.

Straights Le Maire.

Schouten had now gotten the height of fifty nine Degrees, when he enter’d the South-Sea, through the new passage between Mauritius and the States-Countrey, which was call’d from his Partner, The Straights of Le Maire.

Isles in the South-Sea.

Near the two Isles Juan Fernando, they found great store of Fish, after that they view’d these Islands, that lay scatter’d up and down the South-Sea, each of them they nam’d according to their several occasions, calling the first, The Isle of Dogs, because they have abundance of Dogs there that could not bark: Another, The Bottomless Island, because the Sea was so deep about it, that they could not come to an Anchor. The Inhabitants who go naked, with their Skins pounced full of strange shapes, of blue Snakes, Dragons, and such like Creatures, Salli’d out of the Woods upon the Hollanders with great Clubs, to which was fasten’d the Sword or Snout of a Sword-Fish, and also with Slings.

Somewhat further they came to Water-Land, and Flyes-Island, the first so nam’d, because the Shore round about was planted with Trees, but in the middle all lay cover’d with Salt-Water; the other from the Flyes, which with incredible numbers troubled the Sea-men four days together.

Strange entertainment at the Horn Islands.

Moreover, the Reception or Entertainment which Schouten was welcom’d withal, at the Hoorn-Islands, being very remarkable, we will in brief relate:

Anchoring in nine Fathom Water, Shelly ground, before a fresh Rivulet, three Hollanders sent to the King were by him courteously entertain’d, who with strange humility, not bow’d, but kissing their Feet fell flat on the ground, and put the Hollanders Feet upon his Neck; and after this manner of Salutation, waited upon them aboard: Yet although this King fawn’d so much, and seem’d so humble, yet he was very severe over his Subjects, for finding one that had filch’d a Sword, he not onely brought and restor’d it, but immediately Executed the Thief before their Faces.

Le Maire and Arias Claeszoon were much honor’d here, for the old and young King put their Crowns on their Heads, curiously Wrought of fine White Feathers, and the end adorn’d with small Red and Green Feathers; they gave also to each of them a Pigeon, White to their Wings, the hinder part Black, and under their Bellies Red.

In the interim, the King of Water-Island visited the other, by whom Le Maire was treated: When they met, they made strange shews of Honor to each other, but at last shew’d their Salvageness by eating raw Fish, and rudely Dancing before the Hollanders. Le Maire going into the Countrey, and climbing up a high Mountain, saw nothing but Morass Wilds, and Vallies, lying under Water: The King and his Retinue here kept him company, during his stay there, when weary with walking, they sate down together under Coco-Nut-Trees; the young King tying a String about his Leg, climb’d with exceeding dexterity up a high Tree, bringing several Coco-Nuts down with him, which he open’d very expeditiously.

Arias Claeszoon, Rowing ashore one night, found the King sitting under a Roof, resting on four Pillars, where several Naked Women Danc’d before him according to their Musick, which was Taboring upon a hollow Piece of 119Wood, which yielded a murmuring sound without any distinct Tune.

Cava a strange Liquor.

Impudent Women.

But the two Kings meeting again, the next day Complemented one another with more antick and ridiculous Postures, sitting side by side under the Roof, imploring their God, with their Hands folded, and their Heads bow’d to the ground: At this interview, four Holland Trumpeters and Drummers stood playing before the King, to the great admiration and amazement of the Islanders, which were near ten thousand gather’d together upon the News of the strangers to attend the two Kings. Soon after a great company of Rusticks came running thither, which had a green Herb call’d Cava, ty’d about their middle; on a sudden they began all to chaw this Cava, throwing that which they had chaw’d into a large Woodden Trough, then putting Water to it, they Kneaded it together; which done, brought the Liquor on their Heads to the two Kings, before whom they kneel’d when they gave them any: Yet notwithstanding they receiv’d such honor from their Subjects, they shew’d servile respects to the Hollanders, for every King presented them with a Pig, which they first laid on their Heads, then kneeling, put it down at Le Maire’s Feet, and bowing their Heads to the ground, rose again. They wear their Hair long, which Brayded, hung on the left side of their Heads down to their Hips, ty’d at the end with two Knots; but the Nobility had two such Locks: All of them went naked, their Privities onely cover’d. The smallest of the Men exceeded the biggest of the Hollanders in tallness. The Women had long Breasts hanging like Satchels down to their Bellies, and so unshamefac’d, that they prostituted themselves to any, in sight of all Men; and still at low Water, their business was to catch Fish, which they greedily eat raw.

Strange wild men.

Deform’d people.

After all this Entertainment, Weighing from hence, Schouten Sail’d along the Coast of New-Guiny, where three Boats full of Negro’s came Rowing towards them, Slinging very fiercely Stones at them, and hovering about, attended their motion all night. Next morning, seven Boats more coming to their assistance, they set upon the Hollanders, but soon fled from their Bullets; 120yet two of the Negro’s were taken, that in each Nostril wore a Ring. Sailing further, several Boats came aboard of them, whereof those that Row’d, breaking their Assagays or Launces over their Heads, enter’d the Ship; the Hair of their Heads and Beards bedawb’d with Lime, flew about, whilst they Danc’d on the Decks, after they had eaten a good Meal: But they endeavor’d to reward this their kind Entertainment with Treachery, for going ashore, they soon after return’d in greater numbers, and sat upon the Anchors which lay over the Bows of the Ship, and there being a great calm, endeavor’d to Towe the Ship towards the Shore, whilst others threw Stones and Arrows. But so soon as the Hollanders firing their Guns Wounded several of them, they all fled, except some which they took Prisoners, whereof one whom they afterwards call’d Moses, did them great service.

But Le Maire was amaz’d at nothing more, than when on the next Coast he saw several little Houses built about nine Foot high, out of which many People issu’d, which were all deform’d, either having Wry Noses, Bow Legs, Squint Eyes, or crooked Backs, and all in one part or another mis-shapen.

At last, Anchoring before Jacatra, the Ship was stopt there by order of the East-India Company, and the Men divided and put aboard those Ships that Sail’d from India to Holland, and arriv’d in safety at Flushing, after they had Sail’d about the World, in two years and eighteen days.

Sect. XVIII. Voyage of the Nassavian Fleet, under the Command of Jaques L’Heremite, and Geen Huigo Schapenham.

Remarkable Exploits of L’Hermite.

The United Netherlands, to abate the Spanish Greatness, set out a considerable Fleet, which they sent to try their fortune, in making Prize of what ever they could light upon in any of their Havens wash’d by the South-Sea.

Jaques L’Hermite had ten Ships under his Command, Mann’d with sixteen hundred thirty seven Men, and two hundred ninety four Brass and Iron Guns, with which he set Sail from Goree, Anno 1623. and coming before Cape Vincent, he discover’d eleven Turkish Pirates, whom fighting, he beat, and re-took the Holland Ships they had made Prize of.

At Roxents Head, L’Hermite gave chase to fifteen Spanish Ships, and coming up with them, sunk eleven, and took four laden with Sugar. Afterwards Anchoring at Safia, he sent the Ship Over-yssel, and a Frigat call’d the Gray-Hound, to Convoy home the Prizes; afterward being inform’d, that thirty Spanish Ships were making to them, Sailing into the Haven St. Vincent, the Spring Water that he supply’d his empty Cask with being brakkish, caus’d an excoriation of the Guts, which brought the Bloody-Flux, whereby he lost many of his Sea-men; being well entertain’d by the Salvages of Antonio, they went on to Sierra Leona, a Mountainous Point full of Lime-Trees, here they found the Names of Sr. Francis Drake, and other English cut in a Rock.

After that he put in at the fruitful Island Annabon, where he caus’d his Chirurgeon to be Beheaded.

Vegar a wicked man.

This wicked Man being brought to the Torture, would confess nothing concerning the Crimes objected against him, but being strip’d for Execution, they found a small Bag hanging on his Breast, in which lay a Serpents Skin 121and Tongue, with which he had Poyson’d several Men, but he confess’d nothing.

The first of February, the Fleet came to Cape de Pemias, which they know at a great distance, by its high Mountains cover’d with Snow.

In short time after, Sailing by the Mouth of the Straights of La Maire, they met with very tempestuous Weather, and seventeen of their Men going ashore, were devour’d by the Cannibals of Terra del Fuogo. These People being all Whites, and of a large Stature, Paint themselves Red, and go stark naked, except some of highest quality who tie a Deer Skin about their Necks; and the Women cover their Nakedness with a piece of Leather: They live in Bowers made of the Branches of Trees, Stak’d three Foot deep, in a round at bottom, and above like our Tents, Canopy’d, the top of which open, to carry out the Smoke like a Chimney; and have no other Houshold-stuff than some Baskets, in which they lay their few Fishing Implements. They go continually Arm’d with Clubs, Arrows, Slings, and Stone-Knives: Their Boats being only the Trunk of a Tree made hollow, rise up before and behind like a Half-Moon, and are fourteen, and some sixteen Foot long, and two broad, and Row swifter than a Pinnace with many Oars. Lastly, they are so Salvage, that they seem rather to be Beasts than Men, knowing no Religion, ill Natur’d, cruel and Treacherous.

From hence, passing on, L’Hermite refresh’d at the desolate Isle Fernando, and so Steer’d his Course to Calla de Lima, on whose Coast, taking a Spanish Vessel, the Prisoners told him, that their Plate-Fleet had Weigh’d Anchor, and were gone to Panama; only the Admiral which carry’d forty Brass Guns, with fifty Merchant-Men, lay close under the Shore, Guarded by three Stone Bulwarks, Fortifi’d with fifty Guns.

L’Hermite having a design upon these, took three Spanish Vessels that were going thither, and at midnight, sent Captain Adrian Tol, Peter Slobbe, and Meindert Egbertszon, with twelve well Mann’d Boats, furnish’d with Brass Drakes, and Hand-Granado’s, to Attaque the Spanish Fleet that lay hard by; and whilst some gave a false Alarm on the North of Callao, the Boats Rowing from Ship to Ship, in short time fir’d forty of them; although the Spaniards from the Shore endeavor’d by their Shot to drive back the Enemy, neither the Fort or Admiral sparing Powder nor Ball.

In this valiant Exploit the Hollanders had onely seven Men kill’d, and fifteen Wounded: About break of day, seven of the Spanish Ships floated, burning towards the Dutch Fleet, which were as terrible as now Fire-ships, which forc’d them to Weigh Anchor to shun them.

After that, L’Hermite took two Ships laden with Wine, a third full of Wood, and a fourth with Wheat: One of these Prizes he fitted and prepar’d for a Fire-ship, and sending her to Board the Spanish Admiral, it ran aground within shot of him; whereupon being batter’d by the Admirals Guns, and those from the Bulwarks, and at last taking Fire gave but a small blow, because most part of the Powder had taken Wet.

In this interim, while thus their design went prosperously on, their Admiral L’Heremite dy’d, whom they Bury’d on the Island Lima, and Schapenham, in defiance of the Vice-Roy in Callao, caus’d one and twenty Spaniards to be hang’d at the Yard-Arm, because he had sent him a scornful Answer on the Proposals concerning the delivery of the Prisoners.

Vershoor’s Exploit.

Schapenham’s remarkable Exploits.

Schapenham dies.

Cornelius Jacobszoon Sailing to Pisco with four Sail from the Fleet, could do 122no good there, for he not onely found the City to be surrounded with a Wall of fifteen Foot high, but having also many Earthen Redoubts, behind which lay above two thousand arm’d Men, wherefore he deserted the same after some Rancounters: But the Rear-Admiral, John Williamszoon Vershoor, who was sent to Gainquil, had much better luck; for he not onely took that Metropolis, but also burnt a new Royal Gallion, and two lesser Vessels; carry’d a conquer’d Vessel to Lima; slew above a hundred Spaniards, and threw seventeen overboard, because they had shot Poyson’d Bullets against the Law of Arms; of which Conquest Captain Engelbert Shutte had the greatest honor: But the Sea-men grew weaker and weaker by the Scurvy, and all of them would have perish’d, had they not found a soveraign Herb on the highest Mountains of Lima. Schapenham being chose Admiral in L’Heremites place, Weigh’d Anchor from Callao, and ran into the Inlet Piscadores, where on the shore he rais’d a Sconce; yet not long after departed from thence without any effect, but lost twenty eight Men, through the bad Conduct of their Commanders; the like number he lost also at Aquapulque, on the side of which City stands a Castle with four strong Bulwarks; the Holland Fire-ship lay just without the reach of the shot, the rest lay along the shore in a row, there to seize upon the Vessels expected thither from the Manillaes: But because the Scurvy raged amongst the Sea-men, and disabled them, they waited in vain, Schapenham Sail’d through the South-Sea to the Ladrones, where he found store of Provisions. Anno 1625. in March, he drop’d Anchor before Maleye, and from thence went with Herman Spiult, the Governor for the East-India Company in Amboina, to Ceram, where they Conquer’d the Fort Lochoe, and soon after Cambella; then the Fleet being divided, Schapenham carry’d home two Ships from Batavia, and the remainder return’d at several times, they being hir’d to serve the East-India Company to Surratta, Malacca, Coromandel, and the Molucco Isles: Schapenham Deceasing near Bantum, and being Bury’d on Pulo Boftok, the Ships arriv’d at the Texel in July, Anno 1626.

Henry Brewer his Voyage.

Anno 1643. Brewer set Sail with four Ships from Reciffo, and ran close along the States-Isle, so dangerous and Rocky, that he durst not put in to the Land; from which flew great abundance of Party-colour’d Ducks, with sharp Bills, about the Ships, and under the Keels swam also Whales.

Sea Lions.

Brewer’s Haven.

Remarkable Exploits.

On the West side of the Straights Le Maire, Brown ran into Valentine’s Inlet, where he was much troubled by the Winds which came whistling through the hollow Mountains with great and sudden gusts: The shore afforded red and black Strawberries, Carville and Muscles, to the great refreshment of the Sea-men, who daily saw Sea-Lions, but could not come to shoot one of them, for no sooner they perceiv’d any body, but they Diving under Water, swam away; and though they saw Mens Foot-steps of eighteen Inches long, yet they never found any Men. Thence Sailing into the South-Sea, along the Coast of Chili, they enter’d a Bay which they nam’d Brewer’s-Haven; where Landing, they walk’d towards a great Smoke which they saw afar off, but coming near it, found only two Houses within a large Plain, full of Sheep, Oxen, and Horses; before the Houses stood Woodden Crosses.

Ter Bergen’s Exploit.

Castro a City.

Stream Chili.

Brewer Dies.

Strange accident.

Baldivia, a brave City.

The Dolphin Pink and a great Boat being sent to the Inlet, lay the following Night at an Anchor near a high Mountain; from whence, in the Night, two great Guns were fir’d, whereupon, Lieutenant William Ter Bergen Landed with 123sixteen Musqueteers, and climbing up the Mountain, found a Village behind the same, where all things were in Alarm, Drums beating, Trumpets sounding, Bells ringing; the Villagers suddenly firing their Guns on Ter Bergen, who being supply’d with thirty four Men, Encounter’d the Enemy so Valiantly, that he fled into the Woods, not without the loss of Men and Horses: The Guns with which they had shot in the Night lay onely on a Redoubt: Ter Bergen persuing this Victory, March’d into the Woods, and shot the Spanish Commander Andreas Munes Iserrera from his Horse, got great store of Treasure which lay hid under the Tree, being brought out of Carelmappa, which Village he set afire, and kill’d all the Horses, and Weigh’d Anchor with the Admiral Brewer to Michael de Cabuco where not being able to Land, because of the many obscure Rocks and Shoals, they set Sail to Castro, which they conquer’d and burnt without the least resistance: This City situate on a Mountain is stately built among Flowry Meadows, delightful Orchards, and brave Fountains; the Sea before it flows daily fourteen Foot. Brewer also burnt a Spanish Ship, and set some Houses afire, took three Spaniards Prisoners on Las Bahias, who inform’d him, that the Winter Season was almost over, but that it was never known by any to pass over so mildly, ill Weather generally using to blow down Houses, Trees, and rend Rocks asunder; that there was much Gold in Osorno and Baldivia, which last they had some years since deserted for hunger, but it was since Garrison’d by three hundred Castilians, that none could get at the Fort Conception (which lay a League Westerly from thence) but in a small Boat, that there were on the place near two thousand Inhabitants. Moreover, an ancient Matron call’d Lovysa Pizarra, from Quintian, one of the Isles in the Chilean In-Land-Sea, being fetch’d from thence, gave information, that forty years since, before the Indians took up Arms, the Spaniards were quietly setled in Osorno, and in so good a condition, that an ordinary Planter had at least three hundred Slaves, of which, every one was to procure a certain quantity of Gold; that the Isles Chiloves were divided into above a hundred Colonies or Plantations, the Chileses serving the Castilians as their true Governors; those that do good Service the King of the Colony makes them Commanders, and that the Chileses had Rebell’d in several places. Brewer on the Chileses request took some of them, with their Wives and Children into his Ship, furnish’d with Arms, he digg’d a Chest of Silver and a Brass Gun out of the Earth, and soon after being sick, dy’d. His Successor Elias Herkmans prosecuting those Publick Affairs, sent the Pilot of the Unity out of Brewer’s Haven, and some Sea-men, with two Chilean Casiques with a Boat to Carelmappa; but being surpriz’d by a violent Storm, stood in for Horse-Island, where he and the Casiques Landing, he order’d seven Sea-men to carry the Boat to a safer Harbor; but being driven from the shore by strong Winds it took in so much Water as fill’d and sunk it, so that all of them were drown’d. Horse-Island being destitute of Provisions and Lodgings, those that were Landed expected nothing but Death, till they found out a small Hut, and in the same six brave Sheep, and a good quantity of Potatoe Roots, which serv’d for Bread: But when this their new-found Store was almost spent, they happily were fetch’d off by the Boat belonging to the Ship Amsterdam, and with the whole Fleet came to an Anchor before Baldivia. This City built by the Castilians, consisted formerly of five hundred and fifty fair Houses, and was divided into Streets and cross Ways, with two large Markets, and as many costly Churches.

Why the Chileses grew strange to the Hollanders.

The Chileses unsufferably oppress’d, slew all the Spanish Garrison, and into 124the Governor’s Mouth and Ears pour’d melted Gold; of his Skull they made a Drinking-cup, and of his Shin-bones, Trumpets; after this, the City fell almost to decay, onely a great part of the Wall remain’d yet standing: The Chileans hereupon flock’d hither by thousands, some on Horses, others on Foot, all Arm’d with Lances of a Foot long: Herkman hereupon informing them by an Interpreter, that they being mortal Enemies of the Spaniards, would joyn with the Chileans against that common Foe; and desir’d, that they might build a Fort on the Market-place in Baldivia, for a defence against all Invasions, and that they might be supply’d with Provisions which the Fleet wanted; all which the Chileans granted, and accordingly brought in store of Sheep, Hogs, and Cattel: But so soon as Herkman began to make the least mention of Gold, they were all abash’d, and said, that they knew of no Gold Mines, nay, their Hair stood an end, when they heard the name of Gold; so horribly the Spaniards had dealt with their Parents: After this, the Chileans growing more and more strange, did not in the least countenance the building of the Fort, and the longer the Fleet staid, the less Provisions they brought aboard; upon which, the Ships were necessitated, without any remarkable Exploits, to set Sail and return to Reciffo.

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