Note 16 — Chapter III
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“Sir,—We have received your letter, to which we cannot at present give any other answer, but that it is not in our power to yield to your summons, nor to agree to anything done before; because, since your departure from here, Colonel Daniel Fitche is arrived, with commission from the lieutenant-general as governor, in obedience to an order from the king, which has been published. It is to the said governor that your summons and demands must be addressed, for he is the sole commander of the militia. We think that we have suffered great injury at the rupture of the articles concerning the Caribs, who attacked us twice in their wonted manner, which is cruel and barbarous. We would be glad to see you, if you wish, for we expect here, fifteen ships from Barbados, five of which are of fifteen guns each, and two of sixty; and eight merchantmen, of twenty to thirty guns; with a thousand of the king’s soldiers, dressed in their red jackets, and a quantity of arms. By coming, you will render service. We remain, &c.,
“Bastien Baijer, &c. &c.”