APPENDIX TO THE First VOLUME. (continued 2)

Notwithstanding all the Governor’s Care, that no Advice should be given Moody of the Preparations making for him, some People from the Shore were so wicked, as to go off in the Night and give him a particular Account of the Ships, Sloops, and Men, that were preparing to go out against him; whereupon, he having taken (about three Days before the Governor went) the Minerva, Captain Smyter, from the Maderas, laden with Wine, he immediately weighed Anchor and took his Prize with him, and stood out above one hundred Leagues to Sea, where he plundered her, and named to the Master not only the Vessels, but some of the very Persons were coming out to attack him, by which Advice he escaped, and Worley coming just as the other was gone, met the Fate designed for Moody; who having taken out most of the Wine from on board the Minerva, and plundered her, he discharged, and sail’d for Providence, and soon after took the Benefit of his Majesty’s Royal Proclamation.

The Governor kept the Ships and Vessels in sailing Order some Time, in Hopes Moody might have come off the Bar again; but being informed by the Minerva he was sailed for Providence, he discharged them, giving the small Booty taken to the Men who were the Captors, as he had promised them.

Your Account of the taking of Bonnet is pretty just, which was done by Governor Johnson’s Direction and Commission also.

Of Captain Martel.

To Captain Johnson.

SIR,

Though I can contribute nothing to your Second Volume of Pyrates you have (as I hear) in Hand, yet, by your Character of Veracity, I perswade my self I shall oblige you, in rectifying a Mistake you made in your first. In the Life of Captain Martel you say, the Greyhound Galley of London, which I then commanded, fell into the Hands of that Pyrate, who plunder’d her of some Gold Dust, Elephants Teeth, and 40 Slaves. The latter Part of this is just, except the Elephants Teeth, of which I lost, I think, none; but you are misled in the former, for Martel’s Company had deposed him, on Account, as they themselves told me, of his Cruelty; had given him, and those who were willing to follow his Fortunes, a Sloop, and, sending him away, chose a more righteous in his Place, whose Name was Kennedy, by Descent an Irishman, by Birth a Spaniard of Cuba, and a Hunter. On my coming on Board the Pyrate, Captain Saunders of the Weymouth, who was taken the Day before, was the first Man who spoke to me, telling me, he was sorry for my Misfortune. I took him for the Commander of the Pyrate; but I soon found my Mistake, by his carrying me aft to the Captain, who bid me welcome, and drank to me in a Can of Wine; and some of the Crew told me, that it was happy for me I did not fall into the Hands of their late Captain; for a Ship with Madera Wine thought fit to give them the Trouble to lose some Time, and fire a couple of Chase-Guns before she shorten’d Sail, which Captain Martel took for so great an Affront, that all the Company was cut off. But I shall now give you the Particulars of my being taken. As I have said, I commanded the Greyhound Galley, on board of which I had 250 Slaves, bound from the Coast of Guiney to Jamaica, and consign’d to Messieurs Feak and Aldcroft, on Account of Mr. Bignell and others. On the 16th of October 1716, about 10 Leagues S. S. W. from the Island of Monna, in the grey of the Morning, my second Mate came down and acquainted me, that a Ship was almost on board us. We then steer’d about W. half South, and the Pyrate stood to the S. E. His coming very near us made us edge away from him, and call out to desire he would keep his Luff, or he would be on board us. No Answer was given, and not a Soul appear’d on his Decks, but the Man at the Helm, and about two more; however the Greyhound got clear, and crowded, as usual, for a Market. As soon as the Pyrate got into our Wake, she wore, and made all the Sail she could, by which Means she soon came up with us (for she was clean, and we foul) and clewing up her Sprit-Sail, fir’d a Gun with Shot, and at the same Time let fly her Jack, Ensign and Pendant, in which was the Figure of a Man, with a Sword in his Hand, and an Hour-Glass before him, with a Death’s Head and Bones. In the Jack and Pendant were only the Head and Cross Bones. I did not think fit to shorten Sail, which occasioned a second Shot from the Pyrate, which went through our Main Top-Sail. Upon this I consulted my Officers, and they advised the shortning Sail, as we were no Way in a Capacity to make any Defence. I followed their Advice, and was order’d on board the Pyrate, who ask’d me, pretty civily, the usual Questions, Whence I came? Whether bound? &c. My second Mate, and some of my Men, were soon shifted into the Pyrate, with 40 of the best Men Slaves; the Women Slaves they diverted themselves with, and took off the Irons from all the Negroes I had on board. The Captain asked me if I had no Gold? I assured him I had not; and, indeed, I had no more than 100 Ounces, which, before I went on board the Pyrate, my Carpenter had let into the Ceiling of the great Cabbin. He answer’d only, it was very strange that I should take no Gold on the Coast. I answer’d, I had taken a considerable Quantity, but as I took it in one Place, I parted with it in another; which, if he would inspect my Books, he would find exactly as I said. We had no more Discourse then on the Subject, but a while after, I and my Mate were sent for into the great Cabbin, where the Council sat. Immediately cock’d Pistols were clapp’d to our Breasts, and we were threaten’d with Death, in Case we did not confess what Gold we had on board, and where it was hid. I deny’d that we had any, and desir’d he would satisfy himself of the Truth, by examining my Books. The Mate answer’d, he knew nothing of my Dealings on the Coasts, and therefore could give no Answer. He knew, indeed, I had received Gold on the Coast, as he had seen it brought on board; but he had seen a considerable Quantity carry’d out of the Ship. Upon this, we were order’d to withdraw, and nothing more was said; but I hearing their Design was to torture me with lighted Matches between my Fingers, I thought the Loss of the Use of my Hands would be but poorly compensated with the saving 100 Ounces of Gold, and therefore desired to speak to the Captain himself; to him I discover’d what I had, and where it was concealed. He immediately sent his Boat on board the Greyhound, with my Carpenter and half a dozen of his own Crew, who were so impatient to be at the Gold, they made a meer Pincushion of the Fellow’s Breech, continually pricking his Backside with their Swords, to hasten him. My Lodging was in the Hold, where one Taffier, the Gunner, came down to me, and snapp’d a Pistol at my Breast, which he fired afterwards upon Deck; and the same Man one Day, as I was on the Quarter-Deck, struck me, in the Presence of his Captain, with his Cutlass, after having reproach’d me with my private Confession, and asking, if every Man there had not as good and just Pretension to the Gold as the Captain. Whether it was by Accident or Design that he struck with the Flat of his Cutlass, I know not, but the Blow knock’d me down, and depriv’d me of my Senses for some Time.

Captain Kennedy, who seem’d to have more Humanity than is commonly found in Men of his Profession, resented this Treatment of me so far, that he got into his Yawl, and put off from the Ship, swearing he would not sail with Men who so barbarously abused their Prisoners. He, however, returned on board at their Perswasions, and on their Promise, that nothing like it should happen for the future. The Night of the Day in which we were taken, the Pyrate came to an Anchor under the Island of Savona, where he kept us till the 20th, and then let us go in Company with Captain Saunders, of the Ship Weymouth, from Boston, laden with Fish and Lumber for Jamaica, at which Island we arrived and anchor’d at Port Royal the 25th in the Morning.

The Pyrate, a little before I was taken, had met with two interloping Dutch Men, supposed to be bound for the Main, who gave him a rough Entertainment, and made him glad to sheer off.

The Weymouth had two Women Passengers on board; how they pass’d their Time I need not say; though, I fancy, as they had formerly made a Trip or two to the Bay, there was no Rape committed.

Notwithstanding the melancholy Situation I was in, I could not refrain laughing when I saw the Fellows who went on board the Greyhound, return to their own Ship; for they had, in rummaging my Cabbin, met with a Leather Powder Bag and Puff, with which they had powder’d themselves from Head to Foot, walk’d the Decks with their Hats under their Arms, minced their Oaths, and affected all the Airs of a Beau, with an Aukwardness would have forced a Smile from a Cynick.

When I was permitted to return on board the Greyhound, and prosecute my Voyage, I found all my Papers torn, and every Thing turn’d topsy-turvy; but this was nothing to their leaving all my Negroes out of Irons, of whom I was more in fear than I had been of the Pyrates; for, among them, the Captain’s Humanity protected us; but we could expect no Quarter from the Negroes should they rebel; and, in such Case, we had no Prospect of quelling them, for the Pyrates had taken away all our Arms, and by opening a Cask of Knives, which they had scatter’d about the Ship, they had armed the Negroes, one of whom had the Insolence to collar and shake one of my Men. I therefore called my People aft, and told them, our Security depended altogether on our Resolution; wherefore arming selves with Handspikes, we drove the Negroes into the Hold, and afterwards calling them up one by one, we put on their Irons, which the Pyrates had not taken with them, took away their Knives, and, by these Means, arrived safely at our Port. If this Detail is of any Service to you, I have my Ends. I hope, if you intend a third Volume, it may induce others who have had the same Misfortune of falling into the Hands of Pyrates, to assist you with their Minutes.

I am, SIR, Your very humble Servant, J. EVANS.

Feb. 2. 1727-8.

P.S. Four of my Men took on with the Pyrates, though I remember the Names of two only, Bryant Ryley, John Hammond.

The TRIAL of the Pyrates at Providence.

To Captain Johnson.

SIR,

As I am credibly informed you intend to oblige the Publick with a Second Volume of The Lives and Actions of the Pyrates, and are now actually collecting Matter; I was of Opinion, that the sending you some Minutes I have by me, which are authentick, would be no unacceptable Office; and I hope, the Gentleman who was then Governor of the Bahama Islands, will not take the Publication of the following Tryals in ill Part, for I am informed he is in Town. Before I would send them to you, I examined very thoroughly whether he could have any Ground to be offended; but, as I find them Marks of his Prudence and Resolution, and that in the Condemnation and Execution of the Pyrates, he had a just Regard to the publick Good, and was not to be deterr’d from vigorously pursuing it, in Circumstances which would have intimidated many brave Men: I think the Publication will do him both Honour and Justice, and therefore shall make no Apology, but come to the Point.

Trial and Condemnation of the Pyrates, who were executed at Providence, His Excellency Woodes Rogers, Esq; being then Captain General, Governor, and Vice-Admiral of the Bahama Islands.

At a private Consultation, held on Friday the 28th of November, 1718, at the Secretary’s Office in the City of Nassau.

New Providence ss.

The Governor acquainting us, That Captain Cockrem and Captain Hornigold have, by Virtue of a Commission, issued and directed to them for the apprehending of certain Pyrates, had the Success to bring ten of them Prisoners to this Part, who were now confined by an especial Mittimus on board the Ship Delicia; therefore, desired we might agree to join in one Opinion concerning the said Prisoners ...... which being maturely debated and considered, and that as the necessary Guards set on the Prisoners for Want of a Goal, very much fatigued both the Soldiers and Seamen, who equally guarded the Fort and Ship; and as many as could be spar’d, daily work’d on the Fortifications, and did the Duty of Centinels at Night, thereby harrassing our small Numbers of Men, and hindering the publick Work. And there being suspected Persons still remaining in these Islands, who may give frequent Intelligence of our Condition; should any Fear be shewn on our Part, it might animate several now here, to invite the Pyrates without, to attempt the Rescue of these in Custody: Therefore, we do believe it most for the publick Good, when the Fort is in a better State of Defence, and Captain Beauchamps and Burgis, with about 60 Soldiers and Seamen, at this time gone to prevent the Designs of Vane the Pyrate, are returned to strengthen us: The Governor ought then as soon as possible (notwithstanding he has made known to us, that he has no direct Commission for Trial of Pyrates; yet according to the Intent and Meaning of the sixth Article of the Governor’s Instructions, which, in this Case, refers to the fourth Article in those given to the Governor of Jamaica, a Copy of whose Instructions he has for his Directions to govern himself by, as near as the Circumstances of the Place will admit. This corroborated with the Power in the Governor’s Commission of Governor, Captain General, and Vice-Admiral of the Bahama Islands, shew the Intention of his Majesty, for such Authority here; and having an Account that the Proprietory Government of Carolina had executed 22 Pyrates, lately carried in there, which together with the provoking ill Example and Behaviour of these Prisoners, who have all accepted his Majesty’s Act of Grace, and afterwards turned Pyrates again, and considering it would be a great Risque and Trouble to send so many to Great Britain, and much greater to keep them Prisoners here; we are entirely of Opinion, his Majesty will approve of the Necessity for the Governor’s judicial Proceeding with these Pyrates, by a Trial in the best Manner we can according to Law; and do verily believe the speediest Execution for those who shall be found guilty, will conduce most to the Welfare of this Government.

N. B. Thus this stands in the Council-Book, the Governor’s Secretary is answerable for Want of Connexion, or the Secretary of the Islands; for I cannot find what these Words can refer to, the Governor ought then as soon as possible, what ought he? But may be, it is an Error in my Friend, who himself brought over this Copy, written in his own Hand, which with the following, I found among his Papers after his Decease.

His Excellency Woodes Rogers, Esq; Captain-General, Governor, and Vice-Admiral of the Bahama Islands.

To William Fairfax, Esq; Captain Robert Beauchamps, Tho. Walker, Esq; Capt. Wingate Gale, Nathaniel Taylor, Esq; Capt. Josias Burgiss, and Capt. Peter Courant.

Providence, ss.

‘By Virtue of a Commission from his most sacred Majesty King George, King of Great-Britain, &c. to be Governor, &c. of these Islands, thereby empowering me to authorize, commissionate, and constitute all Judges, Justices and Magistrates in these Islands, &c. as also by Virtue of my Commission, to be Vice-Admiral of these Islands, have Power and Authority to authorize and empower, constitute and commissionate, proper Judges and Commissioners, for the trying, determining, adjudging, and condemning, of all or any Pyrate or Pyrates taken, apprehended, and brought into this Government; and in Confidence of the Loyalty, Prudence, and Integrity of you the aforesaid William Fairfax, Esq; Captain Robert Beauchamps, Thomas Walker, Esq; Captain Wingate Gale, Nathaniel Taylor, Esq; Captain Josias Burgiss, and Captain Peter Courant, I do by Virtue of these Presents, authorize, commissionate, and appoint you Deputy, Judges, and Commissioners of the said Especial Court, by these Presents erected and appointed to be, and set in the City of Nassau, on Tuesday the 9th of this Instant, to examine, hear, try, judge, determine, and condemn, all such Pyrate or Pyrates who are now in Custody, and to be brought before the said Court, to be tryed for the Offences of Pyracy by them lately committed in and about these Islands, and to proceed as my Assistants, and as Commissioners aforesaid, according to the Laws of England, and Rules of the said Court in such Cases; and for your so doing, this shall be your sufficient Commission and Authority.

Given under my Hand and Seal at Nassau, this fifth Day of December, Anno Regni quinto Georgii Regis Magnæ Britanniæ, &c. Annoq; Domini, 1718.

WOODES ROGERS.’

New Providence, ss. Chief of the Bahama Islands.

At an especial Admiralty Sessions, held in his Majesty’s Guard-Room in the City of Nassau, on Tuesday the 9th, and Wednesday the 10th of December, 1718.

Before his Excellency Woodes Rogers, Esq; Governor, and Vice-Admiral, &c.

Will. Fairfax, Esq; Judge of the Admiralty. Robert Beauchamp, Esq; Thomas Walker, Esq; Captain Wingate Gale. Nathaniel Taylor, Esq; Captain Josias Burgiss. Captain Peter Courant.

Proclamation being made as usual, the Register opened and read the Governor’s especial Commission, for erecting this Court according to the Intent and Meaning of a late Act of Parliament, Entitled, An Act for the more effectual Suppression of Pyracy, by Virtue of which said Commission, the seven afore-named Commissioners are appointed Assistant Judges, for the hearing, trying, judging, and condemning the several Persons now in Custody, who stand committed for Mutiny, Felony, and Pyracy.

Proclamation being again made, that all Persons concern’d or summon’d, and required to appear at this Court, do give their due Attendance.

Ordered, That the Prisoners be brought to the Bar, which being done, they were called by their respective Names, viz. John Augur, Will. Cunningham, John Hipps, Dennis Mackarthy, George Rounsivel, Will. Dowling, Will. Lewis, Thomas Morris, George Bendall, and Will. Ling.

Ordered, That the afore-named Prisoners, now at the Bar, do all hold up their Hands.

Ordered, That the Accusation against the Prisoners be read, which was as follows.

New Providence, ss.

The Articles and Accusations against John Augur, late Master of the Sloop Mary, of Providence; William Cunningham, Gunner and Mariner, on board the Schooner, called the Batchelors Adventure; Henry White, Master, John Hipps, Boatswain and Mariner, on board the Sloop Lancaster; William Greenaway, Master, Dennis Mackarthy, Mariner, on board the Scooner, William Dowling, Mariner, on board the said Scooner; William Lewis, Mariner, on board the Sloop Mary; Tho. Morris, Mariner, on board the said Scooner; George Bendall, Mariner, on board the said Sloop Lancaster, and William Ling, Mariner, on board the said Scooner.

You the said John Augur, Will. Cunningham, John Hipps, Dennis Mackarthy, George Rounsivel, William Dowling, William Lewis, Thomas Morris, George Bendall, and William Ling, having all of you lately received the Benefit of his Majesty’s most gracious Pardon, for your former Offences and Acts of Robbery and Pyracy, and having since taken the Oaths of Allegiance to his most sacred Majesty King George, and thereupon Trust has been reposed in you the said John Augur, and in the others of you, lawful Employments been bestow’d to divert you all from your former and unlawful Courses of Life, and to enable and support you all in just and lawful Ways of Living; and you not having the Fear of God before your Eyes, nor any Regard to your Oaths of Allegiance taken to your Sovereign, nor to the Performance of Loyalty, Truth, and Justice: But, being instigated and deluded by the Devil, to return to your former unlawful evil Courses, of Robbery and Pyracy, and that you John Augur, Will. Cunningham, John Hipps, Dennis Mackarthy, George Rounsivel, Will. Dowling, Will. Lewis, Tho. Morris, Geo. Bendall, and Will. Ling, late Master and Mariners aforesaid, did on the 6th Day of October last, about Seven in that Evening, in the 5th Year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord George, by the Grace of God, King of Great Britain, &c. plot and combine together, at a desolate Island, called Green Key, within the Jurisdiction of this Vice-Admiralty, to mutiny and feloniously and pyratically steal, take, and carry away, from the Commanders and Owners of the afore-named Vessels, the said Sloops and Cargoes, Tackle, Apparel, and Furniture, to the Value of above 900 l. current Money of these Islands, and by Force cause to be put ashore on the said desolate Island, one Mr. James Kerr, Merchant, and sundry others with him; and the said John Augur, as then Commander of one of the said Sloops, did proceed as Commander of the said Pyrates from the said Island of Green Key to Exuma, whereby, by Virtue of a Commission, directed to Captain John Cockrem and Captain Benjamin Hornigold, you the said John Augur, and the rest of your pyratical Company, were there taken and apprehended as Pyrates, and thereupon brought into this Port, to be proceeded against according to Law.

The Prisoners holding up their Hands, and the Accusation being read, all the said Prisoners were asked by the Register, Whether Guilty, or, Not Guilty; and they pleaded Not Guilty.

Ordered, That the Evidence for the King be severally sworn and examined.

James Kerr.

The Examination of James Kerr, Gent. upon Oath saith, That he being Supercargo in Trust, and outward bound from Providence, a trading Voyage in the Sloop Mary, and in about two Days Sail from the said Island, did arrive at Green Key with two other Vessels in Company, bound also on the said trading Account, where, on the 6th of October last, one Phineas Bunce, one of the said Vessel’s Company, and the head Mutineer of the Pyrates now at the Bar, but since deceas’d, did then and there come on board the said Sloop Mary, and very vilely treat this Deponent, and in the Evening did turn the Deponent ashore upon the said Green Key, a desolate Island; and this Deponent farther saith, that Dennis Mackarthy, one of the Prisoners now at the Bar, was the only Person of all the said Pyrates and Mutineers who shew’d this Deponent any civil Treatment, and that the said Mackarthy did not reflect on the King and Government as others of them now at the Bar did, in this Deponent’s Hearing.

Wm. Greenaway.

The Examination of Captain William Greenaway upon Oath saith, That on the 6th of October last John Hipps, one of the Prisoners now at the Bar, with some others of them, came on board the Vessel under this Deponent’s Command, and then riding at Green Key, with Pretensions of getting Tobacco, and told this Deponent, that Mr. Kerr had a Mind to sail that Night; and this Deponent having order’d his Boat to go on board the Scooner, then belonging to the said Company, to give them Notice of the said Kerr’s Design; in which Interim came on board John Augur and George Rounsivel, both Prisoners now at the Bar, James Matthews and John Johnson, who wanted this Deponent to go on board the Scooner, which he did, where Phineas Bunce, since dead, met this Deponent at the Side; upon which, this Deponent demanded of the said Bunce, the Reason he did not prepare for sailing, as the rest did. Whereupon Bunce, the head Mutineer, asked this Deponent to walk down into the Cabbin, and, when there, Bunce asked him to sit down by him; whereupon the said Bunce told this Deponent, he was his Prisoner; upon which, Dennis Macarthey, now Prisoner at the Bar, presented a Pistol at this Deponent’s Breast, and told him, if he spoke a Word, he, this Deponent, was a dead Man; and the said Phineas Bunce told this Deponent, he had best be easy, for that the better Part of the People belonging to the Sloop Mary was on his Side, as were some of the People he had with him. And then the said Phineas Bunce, with others, the Mutineers, went on board the Sloop Mary, and took her. But this Deponent cannot particularize the Names of the Men who were with Bunce, being Night-time. Afterwards the said Bunce, and the Prisoners now at the Bar, except John Hipps, put Mr. James Kerr, Richard Turnly, Thomas Rich, John Taylor, and John Cox, all ashore at Green Key, a desolate Island, and had the Boat ready prepared to carry this Deponent ashore also; but Bunce hereupon declared, that this Deponent, being a Bermudian, would swim aboard again, and therefore confin’d this Deponent a Prisoner, and plundered his Vessel, leaving him not wherewithal to proceed any where, but a small Quantity of Flower and Beef, obliging this Deponent not to sail from Green Key in 24 Hours after his Departure; but this Deponent did sail the next Morning for Providence, and, in his Way, fell in Sight of the said Mutineers and Pyrates, of whom the Prisoners at the Bar were some, who gave Chase. Whereupon this Deponent went back to Green Key, and took to the Shore, where he saw the Pyrates and said Mutineers cut away the Mast of this Deponent’s Vessel, and then were coming on Shore, as this Deponent apprehended, to take his Person. Whereupon this Deponent made his Escape to hide himself from them upon the said Key. Then the People who were left on board this Deponent’s Vessel, coming ashore, told this Deponent, that the Pyrates had scuttled her, turn’d the Yawl adrift, and from Green Key the said Pyrates proceeded to Stocking Island, where meeting the Spaniards, the Pyrates were themselves taken, and put ashore.

John Taylor.

The Examination of John Taylor upon Oath saith, That all the Prisoners at the Bar, except John Hipps, did join with Bunce, the Mutineer; and that Bunce and two more, whom the Deponent knew not, being Night, took the Vessel he belong’d to; and further saith, That John Hipps was at first confined with the said Greenaway by Bunce.

Richard Turnly.

The Examination of Richard Turnly upon Oath saith, That on the 6th of October last, Bunce the head Mutineer and two others, naming William Dowling and Thomas Morris, Prisoners at the Bar, did come on board the Sloop Mary at Green Key, and ask’d Mr. Kerr and this Deponent for a Bottle of Beer, which was given them, and afterwards a Second, and they commanded a third; and then with the Men, belonging to the said Sloop Mary, took up Arms, and took Mr. Kerr, Thomas Cox, and this Deponent Prisoners, and forced them to go on Shore at Green Key, a desolate Island, about 25 Leagues distant from Providence.

John Cox.

The Examination of John Cox upon Oath saith, That he being on board the Sloop Mary, of which John Augur went out of Providence Master: The said John Augur came on board his said Sloop in the Evening of the 6th Day of October last, and lay down as if he designed to sleep. Soon after, Capt. Greenaway, Master of the Sloop Lancaster, came on board, and ask’d the said Augur, if he intended to set Sail? He answer’d, he could not tell; thereupon Captain Greenaway went on board the Scooner, call’d the Batchelor’s Adventure, Henry White, Master, and in about half an Hour afterwards, came on board another Boat with John Hipps, Greenaway’s Boatswain, to enquire for Captain Greenaway; and in a little Time after, Phineas Bunce came on board the Sloop Mary from the Scooner with 2 or 3 Men more. Bunce ask’d for Captain Augur, and whether they had any Thing to drink, and coming to Mr. Kerr, ask’d him for a Bottle of Beer, which Mr. Kerr gave him; then the said Bunce went into the Cabbin, and brought up a Cutlash, and stood at the Cabbin-Door to drink, and swore that he was Captain of that Vessel, and would be so, which made Captain Augur ask him his Meaning; but presently the said Bunce and Augur seem’d to be good Friends, and Bunce ask’d for another Bottle of Beer, then struck Mr. Kerr with a Cutlash on his Back, and turn’d him and others ashore; and this Deponent well knew all the several Prisoners at the Bar, except Hipps the Boatswain, and that all the rest were Aiders, Assistants, and Abettors to the Mutiny, Felony, and Pyracy, committed upon the Vessels and Cargoes at Green Key.

Thomas Rich.

The Examination of Thomas Rich upon Oath saith, That he knows the several Prisoners at the Bar; and that they all, except Hipps, were the Actors of the Mutiny and Pyracy, committed upon the Vessels and Cargoes at Green Key; and this Deponent was taken by them in the Mary Sloop, and put ashore with Mr. Kerr and the other Evidences for the King.

Thomas Petty.

The Examination of Thomas Petty upon Oath saith, That he saw Hipps beat by Bunce, and believes he was forced to go with him; and that Bunce would have forc’d this Deponent also; but Dennis Mackarthy, Prisoner at the Bar, said if Bunce forc’d the Deponent, he the said Prisoner would leave Bunce and his Company.

And then the Court adjourn’d till 3 a-Clock in the Afternoon.

The Court being met according to Adjournment, and all the Evidences for the King being called and examined, then the Prisoners at the Bar were severally called, to know what Defence each had to make, viz.

John Augur.

John Augur being first called to make Defence for himself, saith no other than that he was in Liquor, and knew not of Phineas Bunce his Design, when the said Bunce enter’d on board the Sloop Mary, whereof the Prisoner was Master; but could call no Evidence to prove himself not guilty.

Wm. Cunningham.

William Cunningham being next called and examined said, That he was asleep when Bunce went on board the Scooner (to which the Prisoner belong’d) at Green Key, and that Bunce brought the said Prisoner Punch, and told him, that he the Prisoner must either join him the said Bunce, or be put upon a Moroon Key, alias a desolate Key.

John Hipps.

John Hipps, Prisoner, said in his Defence, that he did not in any wise enter with Bunce and his Company; but went on board the aforesaid Scooner, to enquire for William Greenaway his Captain, where he was immediately confined by Bunce, together with Greenaway, and afterwards put on Shore with Mr. Kerr and others, where Bunce beat the said Prisoner, and compell’d him at length to join Bunce, but nevertheless declared his Intention to leave the said Bunce and Company on the first Opportunity, and desired Mr. Kerr, Captain Greenaway, Richard Turnly, Thomas Terrell, Benjamin Hutchins, John Taylor, John Janson, Thomas Petty and David Meredith, might be examin’d for him.

Mr. James Kerr being sworn as Evidence for the Prisoner declared, That Bunce used much threatning Language against John Hipps, Prisoner, that if he did not join him the said Bunce and pyratical Company, and go with them into a Boat, provided on Purpose to carry the Pyrates to their Rendezvous, Hipps should repent the Refusal; and farther says, that he saw or knew of no Blows given to compel the Prisoner to assist or join the said Pyrates, but that the Prisoner afterwards accepted the Office and Command of Boatswain to the said pyratical Company.

Captain Greenaway being sworn for the Prisoner says, that the Prisoner went with him on board the Scooner, and was in the Cabbin with him, and made Prisoner with him on board the said Scooner, where the Prisoner made Proposal to the Deponent to surprize Dennis Mackarthy, Prisoner at the Bar, then a Centinel upon Deck, and throw the said Mackarthy over-board; but the Deponent seeing no Probability of escaping the Rest, advised the Prisoner to keep his Mind to himself, till he could have a better Opportunity; and farther saith, that the Prisoner was put ashore with Mr. Kerr, &c.

Richard Turnly being sworn for the Prisoner deposed, That to the best of his Knowledge and Remembrance, the Prisoner was forc’d to accept of any Duty the said Bunce and Company put upon him, if the Command of Words be allowed by the Court sufficient to excuse him; but he never saw Bunce, or any of the rest of the Pyrates, use Blows to force him to join them.

Thomas Terrell, Inhabitant, being sworn, gave the Prisoner the Character of being an honest Man, who was recommended to him by Thomas Bowling, Master of the Sloop Sarah, belonging to the said Thomas Terrell, that during a late Voyage perform’d to Cuba, about two Months ago, there was a Mutiny suspected by Thomas Bowling, of which the said Bowling declared, that John Hipps Prisoner, was not only innocent, but believed a Suppressor of the said Mutiny; and farther declares, that Thomas Bowling had acknowledged the Safety of the Vessel to be much owing to John Hipps, Prisoner at the Bar.

Benjamin Hutchins being sworn for the Prisoner, and examined, declared, that the Prisoner after having been matriculated and seduced by Bunce and his Accomplices, often complain’d to him the Deponent, that he would desert them the first Opportunity, and shew’d his Intentions by many Tears shed, as Tokens of Sorrow for his late Misfortune.

John Taylor being examined upon Oath declared, that the Prisoner was confined as a Person not trusted by Bunce and his pyratical Company.

John Jansen being examined upon Oath, had nothing to declare for or against the Prisoner worth Notice.

Thomas Petty being sworn for the Prisoner declared, that Bunce threatned the Prisoner, that if he would not consent to be of his pyratical Company, he should be frequently beat; and also be put on the first Moroon Key, where he might not find Provision, Water, or any other Sustenance, which the Deponent thinks compell’d the Prisoner to proceed with Bunce for his Safety.

David Meredith being also examined upon Oath declared, That when Phineas Bunce first made Seizure of the Vessel, he particularly spoke to Hipps the Prisoner, that if he would not take on in their Way, he the said Bunce would moroon him, upon some desolate Key or Island; and the more to compel him, gave him several Blows with his Cutlash, and thinks the Prisoner was forced to join with Bunce, &c.

Dennis Mackarthy.

Dennis Mackarthy Prisoner being next called, and desiring that Mr. Kerr, Captain Greenaway, John Taylor, Thomas Rich, and Thomas Petty, might be admitted to give Evidence for him.

Mr. Kerr being examined upon Oath declared, That Mackarthy, Prisoner, was as active as any other of the Prisoners in their pyratical Designs, and has nothing more to speak in his Favour, than that the Prisoner treated him and all others that were of the Deponent’s Company, with more Civility than any others of the pyratical Crew did.

Captain Greenaway being sworn for the Prisoner declared, That when Bunce beat the said Deponent, the Prisoner said, that he would see who ought to be Strikers amongst them for the future.

John Taylor being examined upon Oath declares, that the Prisoner should say, that he would leave Bunce and his Accomplices.

Thomas Rich being sworn declares, that he heard the Prisoner say, that since he had begun, he thought himself obliged to go on with them, meaning Bunce and his pyratical Company.

Thomas Petty being also sworn declares, That after Mackarthy had been an Accomplice of Bunce’s Pyracy, he heard the Prisoner say, he was sorry for his Unadvisedness, which might bring great Troubles on his poor Wife, having a small Child.

George Rounsivel.

George Rounsivel, Prisoner, being next called, desired Turnly to be Evidence for him; who being sworn, declared, That Geo. Rounsivel, after having consented to be of Bunce’s pyratical Company, shew’d some Token of Sorrow, but withal said, that as he had begun, could not without Danger of Life, desert the Pyrates he had combined with.

Wm. Dowling.

William Dowling, Prisoner, being next called, and desiring Thomas Petty to be Evidence for him, he was sworn, and said, that he had very little to say for him, because he had seen the Prisoner as consenting to their pyratical Designs as any of the said Prisoners.

William Lewis.

William Lewis, Prisoner, being next called, had very little to say for himself, otherwise than that one David Meredith had heard him say, he wished to be at John Cullemore’s House to drink a Bottle of Beer, which David Meredith, being sworn as Evidence for the Prisoner, only confirmed.

Thomas Morris.

Thomas Morris, Prisoner, being next called, had very little else to say, than that he had the Fever and Ague when he was first commanded by Bunce to join them, and desiring Thomas Rich as Evidence, he was sworn, and declared, that the Prisoner, as much as he took Notice of him, appeared as active as the most capable, and could not say, that the Prisoner ever relented.

George Bendall.

George Bendall, Prisoner, being next called, and desiring Richard Turnly for Evidence, he was sworn, and declared, that the Prisoner was desired to make his Escape, but was resolved to continue with the Pyrates.

William Ling.

William Ling, Prisoner, being next called, who having nothing to say farther, than a Request that Richard Turnly might give in Evidence for him; he was sworn, and declared, that the Prisoner bore Arms, and was as resolved as any of the Pyrates.

Then the Court adjourned till Ten a-Clock next Morning, being the 10th Instant.

December 10, 1718.

The Court having met according to the Adjournment, and Proclamation made, the Prisoners were again brought to the Bar, and severally ask’d, if they had considered of any farther Evidence or Defence they could propose.

First, John Augur had no more to offer, in his Justification than before.

The second, William Cunningham, the same as before.

The Third, John Hipps having the same Question put, answer’d, that if John Raddon and Henry White had not been absent, they could have declared many Things in his Favour.

Then the Court proposed to every Person, who was an Auditor of the Trial, that any might have Leave to declare upon Oath, any Thing they had heard John Raddon or Henry White say in Behalf of John Hipps, Prisoner: Upon which, Samuel Lawford, Constable, appear’d, and being sworn, declared, That he heard George Raddon say, that he should have been glad to have done the old Boatswain any Service, meaning Hipps, the Prisoner at the Bar; for the said Raddon had seen him cry for his having consented, tho’ by Force, to join Bunce, &c. the Prisoner having also declared to Raddon, that he would fight each of the Pyrates singly, if he could by that Means get clear of them. This Deponent farther said, that Raddon told him, he firmly believed the Prisoner at the Bar would have escaped from the other Pyrates, as soon as he could have got an Opportunity.

The Fourth, Dennis Mackarthy, Prisoner, made some faint Excuse, and at length desired Captain Benjamin Hornigold, as farther Evidence for him; who being sworn, declared, That when he the said Hornigold went to apprehend the Prisoners, who were on one of the Exuma Keys, he the said Prisoner was one of the first taken, and seem’d to the said Hornigold to throw himself, and to have Dependance, on the Mercy of the Governor.

The Fifth, George Rounsivel, Prisoner, had no farther Plea to make.

The Sixth, William Dowling, Prisoner, only desired Thomas Petty to be again call’d, who being sworn, only declared, That he the Prisoner had Offers made by the Spaniards to go in their Service, but the Prisoner refused them.

The Seventh, William Lewis desired Richard Turnley might be again called, who being sworn, declared, That he the Deponent did not see the said Prisoner when the Sloop Mary was first taken, but the Day after he saw the Prisoner under Arms, as active as any one of the Pyrates.

The Eighth, Thomas Morris, Prisoner, had little more to say than pretending that several Persons who were absent, would say something in his Justification; but no one present declared any Thing in his Favour.

The Ninth, George Bendall, Prisoner, had nothing to plead for himself; but desiring Mr. Kerr for Evidence, he was sworn, and declared, That he heard the Prisoner say, that he wish’d he had begun the Life sooner, for he thought it a pleasant One, meaning that of a Pyrate; and farther deposed, that the Prisoner reported, that he had once a strong Inclination to have smother’d John Graves, Esq; his Majesty’s Collector for the Islands, as he lay feeble in his Bed, whose Servant the Prisoner was, but a short Time before he shipp’d himself for the intended Voyage, when he join’d the other Prisoners at the Bar in their Mutiny and Pyracy.

David Meredith being also sworn, declared, That Bunce did once beat the Prisoner, who told him, that if Bunce, &c. beat him once more, he would desert them the first Opportunity.

The Tenth, William Ling had nothing farther to say for himself.

Then the Prisoners were remanded to the Fort; after which, all Manner of Persons were commanded by Proclamation to withdraw.

Then the Court summ’d up the Evidences for the King and the Prisoners, which being debated and considered, all the Prisoners, except John Hipps, were unanimously voted guilty of their Indictment, and the Register was ordered to draw up their Sentence. It was thought convenient to respite the Judgment on John Hipps, Prisoner, till Monday next; and the Court adjourn’d till Four this Afternoon, at which Time being met according to Adjournment, and Proclamation made, the Prisoners were brought to the Bar. Then John Hipps was remanded to the Guardship in Irons, and all the rest asked, if they knew any Cause why Sentence of Death should not be pronounced against them? They had nothing more to say, but to desire some Length of Time for Repentance.

Then the Sentence was read, as follows:

The Court having duly considered of the Evidence which hath been given both for and against you the said John Augur, William Cunningham, Dennis Mackarthy, Geo. Rounsivel, Wm Dowling, Wm Lewis, Tho. Morris, Geo. Bendall and Wm Ling; and having also debated the several Circumstances of the Cases, it is adjudged, that you the said John Augur, Wm Cunningham, Dennis Mackarthy, Geo. Rounsivel, Wm Dowling, Wm Lewis, Tho. Morris, Geo. Bendall and Wm Ling, are guilty of the Mutiny, Felony, and Pyracy, wherewith you and every of you stand accused. And the Court doth accordingly pass Sentence, that you the said John Augur, Wm. Cunningham, Dennis Mackarthy, Geo. Rounsivel, Wm. Dowling, Wm. Lewis, Tho. Morris, Geo. Bendall and Wm. Ling, be carried to Prison from whence you came, and from thence to the Place of Execution, where you are to be hanged by the Neck till you shall be dead, dead, dead; and God have Mercy on your Souls. Given under our Hands this 10th Day of October, Annoq; Dom. 1718, sign’d

Woodes Rogers, Wm Fairfax, Robert Beauchamp, Thomas Walker, Wingate Gale, Nathaniel Taylor, Josias Burgiss, Peter Courant.

After Sentence of Death pass’d upon the Prisoners, the Governor, as President of the Court, appointed their Execution to be at Ten a-Clock on Friday next in the Morning being the 12th Instant.

Whereupon the Prisoners pray’d for longer Time to repent and prepare for Death; but the Governor told them, that from the Time of their being apprehended, which was on the 15th of November, they ought to have accounted themselves as condemn’d by the Laws of all Nations, which was only sealed now; and that the securing them hitherto, and the Favour that the Court had allowed them in making as long a Defence as they could, wholly took up that Time, which the Affairs of the Settlement required in working at the Fortifications; besides the Fatigue thereby occasion’d to the whole Garrison in the necessary Guards, set over them by the Want of a Goal, and the Garrison having been very much lessened by Death and Sickness since his Arrival; also that he was obliged to employ all his People to assist in mounting the great Guns, and in finishing the present Works, with all possible Dispatch, because of the expected War with Spain; and there being many more Pyrates amongst these Islands, and this Place left destitute of all Relief from any Man of War or Station Ship, much wanted, join’d to other Reasons he had, too long to enumerate in Court, he thought himself indispensably obliged, for the Welfare of the Settlement, to give them no longer Time.

Then the Prisoners were ordered to the Place of their Imprisonment in the Fort, where Leave was given them to send for any Persons to read and pray with them.

On Friday Morning each of the Prisoners were call’d in private, to know if they had any Load upon their Spirits, for Actions committed as yet unknown to the World, the declaring of which was absolutely required, to prepare themselves for a fit Repentance; but they each refused to declare any Thing, as well as making known to the Governor, if they knew of any Conspiracy against the Government.

Wherefore, about Ten a-Clock, the Prisoners were releas’d of their Irons, and committed to the Charge and Care of Thomas Robinson, Esq; commissioned Provost Marshal for the Day, who, according to custom in such Cases, pinion’d them, &c. and order’d the Guards appointed to assist him, to lead them to the Top of the Rampart, fronting the Sea, which was well guarded by the Governor’s Soldiers and People, to the Number of about 100. At the Prisoners Request, several select Prayers and Psalms were read, in which all present join’d; when the Service was ended, Orders was given to the Marshal, and he conducted the Prisoners down a Ladder, provided on Purpose, to the Foot of the Wall, where was a Gallows erected, and a black Flag hoisted thereon, and under it a Stage, supported by three Butts, on which they ascended by another Ladder, where the Hangman fasten’d the Cords. They had three Quarters of an Hour allowed under the Gallows, which was spent by them in singing of Psalms, and some Exhortations to their old Consorts, and the other Spectators, who got as near to the Foot of the Gallows as the Marshal’s Guard would suffer them. When the Governor ordered the Marshal to make ready, and all the Prisoners expecting the Launch, the Governor thought fit to order George Rounsivel to be untied, and when brought off the Stage, the Buts having Ropes about them, were hawl’d away; upon which, the Stage fell, and the Prisoners were suspended.

A short Account of the Prisoners executed.

First, John Augur, being about 40 Years of Age, had been a noted Master of Vessels at Jamaica, and since among the Pyrates; but on his accepting of his Majesty’s Act of Grace, and Recommendations to the Governor, he was, notwithstanding, entrusted with a good Vessel and Cargo, in which betraying his Trust, and knowing himself guilty of the Indictment, he all along appeared very penitent, and neither wash’d, shav’d, or shifted his old Cloaths, when carried to be executed; and when he had a small Glass of Wine given him on the Rampart, drank it with Wishes for the good Success of the Bahama Islands and the Governor.

The Second, William Cunningham, aged 45, had been Gunner with Thatch the Pyrate, who being also conscious of his own Guilt, was seemingly penitent, and behaved himself as such.

The Third, Dennis Mackarthy, aged 28, who had also been formerly a Pyrate, but accepted of the King’s Act of Grace; and the Governor had made him an Ensign of the Militia, being recommended as a sober civiliz’d Person, which Commission he had at the Time of his joining the Pyrates, which very much aggravated his other Crimes. During his Imprisonment, he behaved himself tolerably well; but when he thought he was to die, and the Morning came, without his expected Reprieve, he shifted his Cloaths, and wore long blue Ribbons at his Neck, Wrists, Knees, and Cap; and when on the Rampart, look’d cheerfully round him, saying, He knew the Time when there were many brave Fellows on the Island, who would not have suffered him to die like a Dog; and at the same Time pull’d off his Shooes, kicking them over the Parapet of the Fort, saying, He had promis’d not to die with his Shooes on; so descended the Fort Wall, and ascended the Stage, with as much Agility and in a Dress of a Prize-Fighter; when mounted, he exhorted the People, who were at the Foot of the Walls, to have Compassion on him, but, however willing, they saw too much Power over their Heads to attempt any Thing in his Favour.

The Fourth, William Dowling, of about 24 Years of Age, had been a considerable Time amongst the Pyrates, of a wicked Life, which his Majesty’s Act of Grace did not reform; his Behaviour was very loose on the Stage, and after his Death, some of his Acquaintance declared, he had confess’d to them, that he had murder’d his Mother before he left Ireland.

The Fifth, William Lewis, aged about 34 Years, as he had been a hardy Pyrate and Prize Fighter, affected an Unconcern at Death; but heartily desired Liquors to drink with his Sufferers on the Stage, and with the Standers by.

The Sixth, Thomas Morris, aged about 22, had been a very incorrigible Youth and Pyrate, and seem’d to have very little Anxiety of Mind by his frequent Smiles when at the Bar, being dress’d with red Ribbons as Mackarthy was with blue, he said, going over the Ramparts, We have a new Governor, but a harsh One; and a little before he was turn’d off, said aloud, that he might have been a greater Plague to these Islands, and now wish’d he had been so.

The Sixth, George Bendall, aged about 18, tho’ he said, he had never been a Pyrate before, yet he had all the villainous Inclinations that the most profligate Youth could be infected with; his Behaviour was sullen.

The Eighth, William Ling, aged about 30, not taken Notice of before the last Attempt, behaved himself as becoming a true Penitent, and was not heard to say any other than by Reply to Lewis, when he demanded Wine to drink, that Water was more suitable to them at that Time.

It was observed that there were but few (beside the Governor’s Adherents) among the Spectators, who had not deserved the same Fate, but pardon’d by his Majesty’s Act of Grace.

Of Captain VANE.

We have given what Account came to our Hands of Charles Vane in the first Volume, beginning at the Time he left Providence on the Governor’s Arrival; but we have since had some Particulars sent us, which relate to Pyracies, both before and after that Date.

In the latter End of March 1718, he, with about 12 more lewd Fellows, who had squander’d all their Money got by former Villanies, took a Canoe, and went out on the old Account. Soon after their setting out they made Prize of a Sloop belonging to Jamaica, brought her into Potters Key, where they came to an Anchor, and put all the Hands on Shore, except the Master, to whom they promis’d to return his Sloop as soon as they met with another more fit for their Purpose; which soon after happen’d, for cruizing off Harbour Island in the beginning of April, they took the Lark Sloop, which had been taken from the Pyrates by Captain Pierce, in the Phœnix Man of War, who fitted her out with a Cargo to trade at St. Augustin’s. He brought his Prize into Providence Harbour, with his black Ensign hoisted, in Defiance of the above named Man of War, which he loudly threaten’d to burn. Vane, at Providence, augmented his Number of Men to 75, sailed in search of Booty, and on the 4th of July return’d with a French Ship of 20 Guns, a French Brigantine laden with Sugar, Indigo, Brandy, Claret, White Wine, and other Merchandize; the Drake Sloop, John Draper, Master, which he took in his Passage from Providence to Harbour Island, and plunder’d of a considerable Sum of Money, shifting into her some Sugars out of the French Brigantine; the Ulster Sloop, John Fredd, Master, laden with Timber from Andros Island, into this Vessel he put 70 Casks of Sugar; and the Eagle Sloop, Robert Brown, Master, bound to South-Carolina, which he took with a two-masted Boat, commanded by Edward England, his Quarter Master; he put on board this last 20 Terses of Sugar, 6 of Bread, and some other Things. In the Harbour he seized on the Lancaster Sloop, Neal Walker, Master, and the Dove Sloop, William Harris, Master, designed for Jamaica, which he plunder’d of what he thought proper, and shifted 22 Hogsheads of Sugar, some Spanish Hides and old Rigging.

He had the Impudence to come ashore with his Sword in Hand, threaten to burn the principal Houses of the Town, and to make Examples of many of the People; and though he committed no Murders, his Behaviour was extreamly insolent to all who were not as great Villains as himself. He reign’d here as Governor 20 Days, stopp’d all Vessels which came in, and would suffer none to go out, being inform’d of a Governor being sent from England, he swore, while he was in the Harbour, he would suffer no other Governor than himself. He clean’d and fitted the French Ship, with Intent to visit the Coast of Brazil, and design’d to sail in 3 or 4 Days; but the Governor appearing on the 24th, made him change his Resolution, and think of accepting a Pardon, if it might be granted on his own Terms, as will appear by the Letter which he sent off by a Boat to the Governor, and of which the following is an exact Copy.

July the 24th, 1718.

‘Your Excellency may please to understand that we are willing to accept his Majesty’s most gracious Pardon on the following Terms, viz.

‘That you will suffer us to dispose of all our Goods now in our Possession. Likewise, to act as we think fit with every Thing belonging to us, as his Majesty’s Act of Grace specifies.

‘If your Excellency shall please to comply with this, we shall, with all Readiness, accept of his Majesty’s Act of Grace. If not, we are obliged to stand on our Defence. So conclude

Your humble Servants, Charles Vane, and Company.’

The Susperscription was—

To his Excellency the Governor of New Providence.

And at the Bottom of it.—We wait a speedy Answer.

The Governor could not get in that Night, but was forced to keep at Sea, so that Mr. Vane could not so speedily have an Answer as his Excellency design’d, which he intended to carry himself. About Four that Afternoon the Rose Man of War and Shark Sloop got in, and were saluted with four Shot from Vane, which, however, did no other Damage than the cutting the Rose’s Rigging. In the Evening Captain Whitney sent his Lieutenant on Board Vane, who was higher up the Harbour in the French Ship. They detained this Gentleman two Hours, and the Crew, most of which was drunk, treated him, some with Threats, shewing the black Flag, and some with Contempt and Ridicule, and order’d him back to tell his Captain their Resolution was to fight it out to the last.

When Captain Whitney fired the eight a-Clock Gun, Vane did the like with Shot, directed at the Rose. At Ten he pointed all the Guns of the French Ship (double loaded) at the Man of War, and, after setting Fire to her, went with 40 Hands into a Sloop belonging to one Yates. As the French Man burnt, the Guns fired, and cut some more of the Rose’s Rigging. Captain Whitney apprehending Danger from the fir’d Ship, together with the Shark Sloop, cut and put out to Sea, which gave Vane an Opportunity he laid hold on, to take what he thought fit off Shore, and to force the best Carpenter and Pilot in the Island on Board him. When he had done, he went to, and lay at Potters Key all Night, and the next Morning got under Sail.

His Excellency dispatch’d after him the Buck Sloop and another small one, both well mann’d and fitted, which gain’d while he was upon a Wind, and came, before he clear’d the East End of the Island, within Gun-Shot; but he easing out his Main-Sheet, and setting his Flying-Jibb, left them soon after; wherefore, Night coming on, and their Pursuit being fruitless, they return’d.

Soon after Vane sent the Governor of Providence Word, he would make him a Visit, and burn his Guardship, for sending two Sloops to chase him instead of answering his Letter.

The 30th of August he took the Neptune of 400 Tuns, and the Emperor of 200 Tuns, the Particulars of which are in the subjoin’d Protest.

The 9th of September he arrived at Allens Key in a Spanish Brigantine; he had before taken a Spanish Ship of the Havanna; here he forced on Board a Pilot, took a Sloop and went to Green Turtle Key.

I have only to add: This Pyrate, whose Death is set down in the first Volume, betray’d the Coward when at the Gallows, and died in Agonies equal to his Villainies, which he gave no Ground to believe proceeded from the Apprehensions of a future State, but the Fear of Death. He shew’d not the least Remorse for the Crimes of his past Life, which was taken Notice of by the Spectators of his deserved Punishment, and told me by a worthy Gentleman who saw Justice done on him at Gallows Point on Port Royal.

The Protest of Captain King, Commander of the Neptune Hagboat.

‘By this publick Instrument of Protest be it made known and manifest, that on the 30th Day of August 1718, John King, lately Commander of the Neptune Hagboat of London, but now in the Island of Providence, one of his Majesty’s Bahama Islands, came before me Woodes Rogers, Esq; Governor, &c. and declared to me, that on the Day and Date above-written, he sailed with the said Ship Neptune Hagboat over the Bar of Carolina, in Company with three more Ships bound for London, viz. the Emperor, Captain Arnold Powers, Commander, and the Pink Antamasia, Captain Dumford, Commander, and the Pink ......, Captain Evers, Commander, and about two Hours after he was over the Bar of South-Carolina, he saw four Sail of Vessels standing some one Way, some another; but one of them being a Brigantine, gave Chase, and, in about two Hours time, came up with his Ship with a black Flag flying, and after having fir’d several Guns, demanded him to strike, and to come on Board the Brigantine, commanded by one Charles Vane, a Pyrate, who detained him and four of his Men on board the said Brigantine, and sent several of his Men on board the Neptune; and when they came on board they commanded him to make Sail, and began to rob and rifle as they thought fit, &c. taking only the Neptune and Emperor with them; for by the Information of the Captain of the Neptune and Emperor, the other two were loaded with Pitch and Tar, which was not for their Turn, so they would not give Chace to them; but in a small Time after they had held a Consultation together, they concluded to carry the Ship Neptune and Emperor, with their Crew, to Green Turtle Key, on Abbaco, so steered their Course accordingly for the said Place. About four Days after John King, Commander of the Neptune declares, he fell sick of a violent Fever on board the said Vane’s Brigantine, and Vane asked him, if he would go on board his own Ship? he readily answered, Yes, if he pleased; so hoisted out his Boat, and sent him on board. And about four Days afterwards the Pyrates held a Consultation on board their own Vessel. The Captain, and most of the Officers, were for taking what they wanted out of the Ship Neptune and Emperor, and so let them go about their Business; but the rest of the Company was not willing for it, because, they said, What should they clean their Vessel by? And what Defence should they have whilst they were cleaning? So concluded to proceed on to Green Turtle Key, which they did, and arrived there on or about the 12th of September 1718, and began to make Preparations for careening their Vessels, which held about three Weeks, and at the latter End of this Time they had taken from both Ships such Things as they wanted, and then took their Leaves of the said Ships and Captains, wishing them a good Voyage home, so set Sail; but in a little Time after made a Sloop coming into the Harbour of Green Turtle Key, perceiving her to come towards them without any Fear, came to an Anchor again, and sent away the two Mast Boat after them with about twelve Men in her, expecting it was a Sloop from Providence with fifty Men, according to Promise, when they left Providence, but in three Hours, or thereabouts, they spoke with her, which gave them Account that they came from Providence; and also laying down the State and Condition of that Island, it being the expected Sloop aforesaid, out of which some of the Men entered with Vane, but know not how many. And likewise the said King farther declares, that he heard some of the Pyrates say, that Sloop had brought Ammunition and Provisions, &c. and the Commander’s Name was one Nicholas Woodall. The said King asked what was the best News at Providence? They replied, None good: But bid him ask not many Questions, but fit up his Ship, in order to go for England or Providence; if the latter, they would take Care to see us to Providence, and did believe they should go in and surrender themselves up to the King’s Pardon. The next Morning, being very much disturb’d with the News that the Sloop brought from Providence by the said Woodall, they voted to Maroon Captain Walker, but that did not take Place, so put it to Vote again to maroon and destroy the Neptune, which they did with cutting away the Masts, Rigging, Sails, Beams, and firing a Gun, double loaded with Shot down her Hold, and totally disabled her from ever proceeding her Voyage home to England. And the said King does verily believe, that the said Woodall’s Sloop coming there, was the Occasion of all the aforesaid Mischief, believing what was done was to pay him for his great Favour done them. And farther, the said Captain King says, that some of the Pyrates, who were his Friends, told him, that if that Sloop had not come, this Damage would not have been; and that they were very sorry for it; so by the said Vane’s Order they went to work to load this Woodall’s Sloop with Rice, Pitch, Tar, Deer Skins, Sails, Rigging, &c. After she was loaded, being the next Day, they all sailed together as Pyrates, taking with them one of Captain Walker’s Sons, with his Sloop, to tend on them, and as Pilot; but before they got out of the Channel, arrived to the Ships Neptune and Emperor, a Sloop from Providence, sent by the Governor to hear what was the best News there, hearing that Vane was there. The Captains of the said Sloop, Hornigold and Cockram told the Captains Powers and King, that they were come by the Governor’s Order to assist them in what they could, who accordingly did, with making Dispatch to Providence, to acquaint his Excellency the Governor what sad Condition they were in by the Pyrates hard Usage, leaving them without Provisions, &c. So the said Captains Hornigold and Cockram set Sail that Night, and in three or four Days after took the Sloop Woolfe, Nicholas Woodall, Master, that had traded with Charles Vane, the Pyrate, and carried him to his Excellency the Governor of Providence, who seized his Vessel, and confined him Prisoner. By that Time Vane came in a second time to Green Turtle Key, and began a second Plunder, taking from the Ships Rice, Rigging, Masts, Sails, &c. from both Ships, and told the said King, that if he offered to touch his Prize he would burn her, and him in her, if ever he catched him again; so sailed away the second time: And about three Weeks after arrived the said Captains Hornigold and Cockram, with five Sloops from Providence, sent down by the Governor, to save what Goods they could out of the Neptune, that was in so much Danger. The next Day they began to load the Sloops, and got them loaded in two Days, so sailed away. The said King came to Providence to consult and agree with the Governor what to do in such a Case. After some Time spent it was concluded to fit out the Willing Mind with Guns and Men, enough to stand an Engagement with Vane, and sell the Neptune; and, in a few Days after, did accordingly put her up publick to Sale, and it was thus sold to one Mr. George Hooper, for seventy one Pounds current Money of Jamaica, he being the Person that bid the most Money for her. The Willing Mind being fitted, sailed from Providence the 15th of November 1718, and arrived at Green Turtle Key the 19th, and took the Goods out of the Neptune, being in a very bad Condition; and after they had taken out all her Cargo, finding the Neptune to be better than they did expect; and, having a fair Wind, brought both Ships up to Providence, the Neptune got in safe, but the Willing Mind struck on the Bar, and sprung a Leak, insomuch that she was forced to unload and careen, and, when down, found her to be very bad, a Piece of her main Keel being gone, so was forced to hawl her ashore; and when the Carpenters had done what could be done to her, she could not be got up again by all the Strength that could be made, and tried for several Days, breaking and tearing all to pieces, but all to no Purpose; so the Governor order’d a Warrant of Survey on her, and was found by the Surveyors not sufficient to proceed any further, being very much damaged in her Wood-Work and Iron-Work, &c. Whereupon the said King desired a second Survey of his Ship and Goods, they lying in a very bad Condition. Now in the Harbour of Providence there being no Vessels to carry them to England, he therefore is now going to Carolina to consult with Mr. Richard Splat, who shipp’d the Goods on board, and to know of him what further may be done with the said Goods, and that he may rightly apprize all they concern’d, of the present Condition of the Ship and Goods; he has further taken the Opinion of Captain Thomas Walker, Captain Richard Thompson, and Captain Edward Holmes, Persons who are well acquainted what sad Condition the Ship and Goods are now in; whereupon the said King, and one of the Mariners belonging to the Ship Neptune, did, and doth hereby protest against the said Charles Vane, and the rest of the Mariners, Pyrates and Robbers, belonging to the Brigantine aforesaid, and for the feloniously and pyratically taking, boarding, entering and plundering, and for sinking and disabling within the Harbour of Green Turtle Key, the said Ship Neptune, and for all Damages and Losses accruing thereby to the Owners, Freighters, or any other Persons concern’d therein. In Testimony whereof we have hereunto set our Hand and Seals this 5th Day of February, Anno Dom. 1718-9.

Jurat Coram me hoc die Decem. Februaris, Woodes Rogers.

John King, × The Mark of John Morrison.’

Of Captain BOWEN.

Could the Reader conceive the Pains we have been at, to collect Matters for the composing a genuine History of the Lives of the Pyrates, and the great Care we have taken to deliver nothing but the Truth, he would readily forgive, nay, would be apt to commend our placing those Particulars in the Appendix of the same Book, which we could not possibly obtain (notwithstanding our diligent Enquiries) before the Lives were printed, and the Book in a manner ready for Publication.

What we have said in the foregoing Part of this Volume, of Captain Bowen, may be depended on as Truth; but as we had not that Certainty of his Original we now have, we rather chose to be silent than impose on our Readers with Fables of our own Invention: We have since learn’d (and it is with Reason we can depend on our Account, having it from one who personally knew, and often convers’d with him) that he was born of creditable Parents, in the Island of Bermudas, who took Care to give him a good Education answerable to the Vocation he was design’d for, which was the Sea.

The first Voyage he made was to Carolina, where some Merchants finding him every Way capable, and that he was a sober intelligent Man, gave him the Command of a Ship, and sent him to the West-Indies. He continued in this Employ for several Years, but one Voyage, in his Return, he had the Misfortune to fall in with, and be taken, by a French Pyrate, who having no Artist on board, detain’d Captain Bowen to navigate their Vessel; and after cruizing some Time in the West-Indies, shap’d their Course for the Guiney Coast, where they made several Prizes, and took several good Artists; but having Experience of Captain Bowen, he could by no Means prevail on them for a Discharge; tho’ notwithstanding the Service he was to them, they treated him as roughly as they did their other Prisoners, of which I have already taken Notice in Captain White’s Life.

They (the Pyrates) doubled the Cape of Good Hope, steer’d for, refresh’d at Johanna, and having made their Voyage to the East-Indies, lost their Ship, as is already shewn in the above Life, (and need not be here repeated) on Madagascar: The other Particularities which are not set down in Bowen’s own Life, will be found in those of his Companions; as his going with Captain Read; the taking the Grabb; the coming to Mayotta, and from thence in the Grabb to Madagascar; the joining of that Vessel and Fourgette’s; the taking the Speaker; his succeeding Booth in the Command, and his Death at Mascarenas.

OF Capt. Nathaniel North, And his Crew.

We have placed this Life in the Appendix, which will not perhaps be thought a proper Place; but we could not gather the Particulars, which were collected out of several different Journals, Time enough to insert it in the Body of the Book, and therefore, thought of reserving this Life for Part of another Volume; but when we had compiled it, and found it was a Sort of Recapitulation of the Adventures of the Madagascar Pyrates which went before, we judged it more proper to give it in the Appendix than to separate this Gentleman from his Companions; and we were the rather induc’d to this, as the Reader will here find an Account of Bowen’s Death, which we had not learn’d at the Time we wrote his Life; the Papers which we got after a long Search, and which has furnish’d us with some other Particulars of that Rover’s Life, not being at that Time to be found.

Captain North was born at Bermudas, and was the Son of a Sawyer, which Business he himself was bred up to, but took, at last, to the Seas, at the Age of 17 or 18, shipping himself Cook on board a Sloop, built at Bermudas, for some Gentlemen of Barbadoes, with Design to fit her out for a Privateer. She was bound to her Owners, but the Master took Santa Vdas in the Way, and loaded with Salt. When they came to Barbadoes all the Crew was press’d, and North with his Companions were put on board the Reserve.

The Master applied himself to the Governor, and got all his Men clear’d, North excepted, who, as he was a Lad, was neglected, and left on board the Man of War, which soon after sail’d for Jamaica; some Time before the Reserve was relieved from this Station, he laid Hold of an Opportunity to run away, and shipp’d himself on board a Sugar Drover, in which Way of Life he continued about two Years, and being an able Sailor, tho’ no Artist, he was offer’d to go Master of one of these Coasters, which he refus’d, and went on board a Privateer.

The first Voyage he made, as a Privateer, they took a couple of good Prizes, which made every Man’s Share very considerable; but North, as he had got his Money lightly, so he spent it, making the Companions of his Dangers the Companions of his Diversions, or rather joining himself with them, and following their Example; which all (who are acquainted with the Way of Life of a successful Jamaica Privateer) know is not an Example of the greatest Sobriety and Oeconomy.

His Money being all spent, he took the same Method for a Recruit, that is, he went a second Time a Privateering, and met with such Success, that he engag’d very heartily in this Course of Life, and made several lucky Cruizes.

Some Time after he grew tir’d, thought of trading, and shipp’d himself on board a Brigantine, bound for the Spanish Coast, commanded by one Captain Reesby: This Vessel went both on the Trading and Privateer Account, so that the Men shipp’d for half Wages, and equal Shares of what Prizes they should make, in the same Manner, as to the Shares, as on board a Privateer; their trading answer’d very poorly, and their privateering Business still worse, for they return’d without making any Prize.

They were forced to leave the Spanish Coast, on Account of a Spanish Guarda la Costa, of 40 Guns and Three hundred and fifty Frenchmen, commanded by a Captain of the same Nation. When they made the Island of Jamaica, they fell in with Bluefields, off which Place two French Privateer Sloops were cruizing, one of which was formerly a Privateer of Jamaica, called the Paradox; they immediately clapp’d Capt. Reesby on board, taking him for a Trader, come from the Spanish Coast, and weakly mann’d; however, they were soon made sensible of the Mistake, for they came to fetch Wool, and one of them went away shorn; I mean Reesby took one of them, and the other was obliged to a good Pair of Heels for his Safety. Reesby lost ten Men, killed outright in the Engagement, and had seven wounded; the latter, tho’ he had made but a broken Voyage, he put ashore at Bluefields, and ordered great Care to be taken of them, at the Owners Expence: Here he took in fresh Provision, and then beat up to Port Royal, where Reesby paid them very honourably, gave them a handsome Entertainment, and begg’d they would not leave him, as he had a very great Value for them all; but for North particularly, who was a good Swimmer, manag’d a Canoe, with great Dexterity, and fear’d nothing.

Upon this Desire of the Captain’s, North and the greater Part staid ashore till Captain Reesby was refitted, and went a second Voyage with him to the Coast, at seventeen Dollars a Month, and no Share; they carried 300 Negroes, beside Bale Goods; they staid four Months on the Coast, and dispos’d of all the Slaves and Goods to great Advantage. Upon their Return to Jamaica, after some Stay on the Island, Captain Reesby not going out again, North went once more a Privateering, and made a considerable Booty. While North was ashore after a Cruize, he was press’d on board the Mary Man of War: He made a Cruize in her to the Spanish Coast, and return’d to Jamaica; but hearing the Mary was soon to go to England, he, and three more, resolv’d to swim ashore from the Keys, where the Men of War lie, but he was taken as he was going off the Head, and whipp’d; he, however, found Means to make his Escape, before the Ship left the Island, and went on board the Neptune Sloop, a Privateer, commanded by Captain Lycence, then Lieutenant of the Reserve, who, while the Ship was in the Carpenter’s Hands, got a Commission of the Governor to take a Cruize. Captain Moses, who commanded the Reserve, went on board their Sloop, under the Command of his Lieutenant, for Diversion only: They cruized off Hispaniola, where they met with a French Letter of Mart Merchant Man, of 18 Guns, and 118 Men, who had the Day before engaged the Swan Man of War, and shook her off.

The Neptune attack’d her, and Captain Moses was wounded one of the first, and carried down; Lycense order’d to board, but the Quarter-Master, who steer’d, mistook the Helm, the Sloop fell off, and the French pouring in a Volley of small Shot, Captain Lycence was kill’d, which being told to Moses, as the Surgeon dress’d him, he order’d North to the Helm, bid them not be discouraged, and he would be upon Deck immediately. Accordingly he came up as soon as dress’d, laid the Ship on board, where they made a very obstinate Resistance; but the French Captain being kill’d, who received eleven Shot before he dropp’d, they, at length, became Masters.

The Privateer lost ten Men, and twenty were wounded: The French had fifty Men killed and wounded, among whom was the Captain, who had received two Shot, as he was going down to the Surgeon to get his Blood staunch’d, and came upon Deck just as he was boarded, where, encouraging his Men, he was distinguished and aimed at.

When they had brought the Prize into Jamaica, as she was an English Bottom, built at Bristol, and called the Crown, the former Owners sued to have half the Ship and Cargo, and recovered one third.

North went again a Privateering, Captain Moses his Ship being not fitted, he would take a second Cruize, and North with him. Some Time after their Return, Captain Moses being a cruizing in the Reserve, North, who was ashore, was press’d on board the Assistance Man of War; and on the Reserve’s coming, being recommended by Captain Moses to his own Captain, he was handsomely treated, and made one of the Barge’s Crew: He was very easy till the Assistance was order’d to England, and then, as he was apprehensive of going into a cold Climate, he took his Leave of the Man of War, and said nothing. He then went on board a Privateer again, and made several Prizes, two of which were English Bottoms, and sued for by former Owners; North thinking it hard to venture his Life, and have Part of his Prize Money taken away, and the Press being hot in Jamaica, he resolved to sail no more with the English; but went to Curasoe into the Dutch Service, and sail’d with a Spanish Trader to the Coast of New Spain several Voyages. In the last he made, they were chased ashore by a couple of French Sloops, one of which was commanded by a Dutchman, named Lawrence, who, with his Comrade, took Possession of their Vessel, and rifled her; the Crew of the Prize called to them, and asked, if they would give them good Quarters? which they promis’d; took them all on board, and used ’em very handsomely.

The French gave the Prisoners a small Sloop they took a while after, and they returned to Curaso.

He having now forgot his Resentment, he return’d to Jamaica, and went on board and cruiz’d in a Spanish Barca Longa, of 10 Guns, commanded by Captain Lovering, born at Jamaica; they cruiz’d three Months in the West Indies, and making but a small Hand of it, they put for Newfoundland, to try their Fortune on the Banks: Here they met a Man of War, who renew’d their Commission for six Months longer. The first Prize they made was a French Ketch, with a Spanish Pass, and would have pass’d for a Spaniard, but by strict Search, and threatning of the Men, they discovered her to be what she really was, tho’ she had, as a Spaniard, slipp’d thro’ the Fingers of a Man of War before.

They carried their Prize into Harbour, went again upon the Cruize, met with a French Letter of Mart Merchant Man, a Bristol built Ship, called the Pelican, of 18 Guns, and Seventy five Men, half laden with Fish: This Ship stood them a long Argument; they clapp’d her on board, and two of their Men enter’d, but missing lashing, the Barca Longa fell a-stern, and the two Men were made Prisoners; however, they came up with her again, clapp’d her on board a second Time, and carried her into the same Port where they had left the Ketch.

They after this put to Sea again, and being discovered by the French Settlement ashore, they went into St. Mary’s Bay, where they fell in with a large French Fly-Boat, of 800 Tons, eighty Men, and 18 Guns, and laden with Fish: They chased and came up with her, under French Colours; when they were pretty near the Frenchman they haled, and ask’d, whence they came? a Guernsey Man, at the Bowsprit End, answer’d, from Petit Guavers; that they had been cruizing on the Banks, and were going into the Bay for Refreshment. The Frenchman bid them come no nearer, but send their Boat on board; they keeping on the Chase he fired at them, they did not mind this, but run up a long Side and boarded him; the French ran to their close Quarters, and disputed the Ship three Quarters of an Hour, when they all call’d for Quarters except one Man, who wou’d take none, but ran like a Madman into the Thick of the English, and wounded several, tho’ he was soon dispatch’d by their Pistols.

They carried this Prize to join the others, and turning all the Prisoners ashore, except what were necessary to condemn their Prizes; they stood, with a Fleet of four Sail, for Rhode Island.

Here they condemn’d the Fly-Boat and Ketch, but found a great Difficulty in getting the Pelican condemn’d, the English Owners putting in their Claim; but, at length, a Scotch Lawyer did their Business, upon leaving 300 l. in his Hands to bear the Charge of any future Suit. Captain Lovering dying here, the Ship’s Company bought the Pelican, broke up the Barca Longa, sent her Owners their Shares, and got a Commission for the Master to cruize Southward as far as the Line, and to be valid for eighteen Months certain, two Years allowing for Accidents.

They fitted this Ship for a long Voyage, out of the Joint Stock of the Company; but Iron Hoops being scarce in New England, they were obliged to take Casks hoop’d with Wood, which I mention, because it proved the Ruin of their Voyage to the East Indies for a whole Year.

They being fitted for the Sea, they set Sail and steer’d for the Cape of Good Hope, which they doubled in the Month of June, made the best of their Way to Madagascar, and went into Augustine Bay, where they victualled and watered, but before this was done it was August, which was too late to go to the East-Indies; which they propos’d to do with Design, to cruize on the Moors, not intending to Pyrate among the Europeans, but honestly and quietly to rob what Moors fell in their Way, and return home with clean Consciences, and clean, but full Hands, within the limited Time of their Commission.

From Augustine they went to Johanna, and the Provisions they had salted up at Madagascar not being well done, it began to spoil; this and their Cloaths wanting Repair, made them desperately resolve to take the King of Johanna and make him ransome himself, but the Master wou’d not take Charge of the Ship, being unacquainted with the Coast: They cruiz’d among the Islands, landed at Comaro, and took the Town, but found no Booty, excepting some Silver Chains, and check’d Linnen. From hence they went to Mayotta, where they took in a Frenchman who had been morooned there, and maintain’d by the King; they consulted with him about the surprizing and taking his Town. The Frenchman was averse to it, as he owed him the Obligation of being preserved; however, he was in their Hands, and must do as they would have him: They surrounded the King’s House after they had been three Days in his Town, and took him and all the Inhabitants; but the King’s Son made his Way thro’ the thickest of them with his Cutlash, tho’ he was shot afterward. The Pretence they made use of for this inhospitable Manner, was, that the King had poison’d the Crew of a Ship, which was their Consort; he denied it, as well he might, for they themselves never heard of a Ship of the Name they gave this fictitious one. The King they carried on board, the other Prisoners they put into a Sort of a Temple, with a Guard over them of 36 Men.

The Alarm being given in the Country, the Natives came down in a Body of some Thousands, and attack’d the Guard; but the Ship hearing the Fire, and seeing the Hills covered with Blacks, discharged several great Guns, loaded with Patridge, which making a very great Slaughter, obliged them to retire.

The King ransom’d himself for some Silver Chains to the Value of a thousand Dollars, and for what Provision they demanded; and at the setting him ashore, swore Allegiance to them as Masters of the Country, and took an Oath besides, never to poison any more white Men.

After this notable Expedition, they staid here a Fortnight, tho’ always on their Guard, and then went back for Augustine with about 20 Slaves, they carried away with them for Servants.

Here a Sickness coming among them, they built Huts ashore; they lost, notwithstanding all their Care and Precaution, their Captain and thirty Men, by the Distemper which they contracted; but it abating, they thought of going to Sea again, but on examining their Water Casks, they found the Hoops all worm eaten and rotten, so that there was no Proceeding, but this Defect was repaired by their Cooper, who was an ingenious Fellow; he went into the Woods with the Mayotta Slaves, and with Withies and other Stuff he gathered, fitted them up, and made them tight, in acknowledging of which Service, they chose him Captain, and North was made Quarter-Master.

At Augustine they pick’d up some Straglers, among whom was David Williams, and on a Muster, they found they had a hundred and five Men. They then made their Vessel a free Ship, that is, they agreed every Man should have an equal Share in all Prizes; and proceeded for the Mouth of the Red Seas.

In the Night, after they had reach’d their Station, they made two Ships, one was the Mocha Frigate, of 40 Guns, commanded by Culliford: she had been an East India Man, and under the Command of one Captain Stout; the other Ship was called the Soldada, a Ship of 16 Guns, the Captain’s Name Shivers; they haled one another, and on both Sides gave the same Answers, from the Seas, and upon Agreement, they all lay by that Night: In the Morning they consorted, and agreed to make an equal Division of all Prizes, which any of the three should take from that Time for two Months to come.

The Pelican spared Wood, Water, and some of her Hands to Captain Culliford, and here Williams shifted on board him. About ten Days after, these three had join’d Company a large Moor’s Ship, on which they afterwards mounted 70 Guns, hove in Sight.

They all gave Chase, but the small Ship came first up with the Moor, who exchang’d several Shot with the Soldada and Pelican; but the Soldada clapp’d her on board, and before the Pelican could enter a Man, the Moors call’d for Quarters: In boarding the Moor, she fired a Broadside upon the Soldada, but only two Shot hull’d her, and kill’d two Men, which was the only Loss they had in taking a thousand Prisoners, Passengers, and Sailors.

All the Money was carried on board the Mocha Frigate, and divided between her Crew and the Soldada, excluding without other Reason than sic volumus, the Pelican from any Share.

The Crew of the Pelican expostulated with them, and bid them remember they had spared both Wood and Water, or the Mocha could not have kept the Station; instead of any Answer, they receiv’d a Command to be gone, or they would sink them; they answering, they could not go by themselves, wanting the Water and Wood they had spared. The two Consorts gave them a thousand Dollars, and some Water out of the Moor, bidding them buy Wood, where they could purchase it, and so left the Pelican to her self, going away for the Coast of Malabar, where they put the Prisoners and Horses they had taken ashore, sunk the Soldada, and thence went to the Isle of St. Mary’s on Madagascar, where the Moor’s Ship now lies sunk. They shared out of this Prize a thousand Pounds a Man in Silver and Gold besides other Goods; and the two Pyrates amounted to the Number of 350 Men.

The Pelican kept the same Station for some Days, when a large Moor Ship hove in Sight, they gave Chase, and the Moor, not suspecting her for an Enemy, did not endeavour to get away; when the Pelican came up, she fired for the Moor to bring to, which made him set his small Sails, tho’ with the Loss of several Men; for the Pelican being close up, brought them down with the small Arms. When the Moor had, at length, hove out his small Sails, the Pelican could not gain upon him enough to board, tho’ she was not a Pistol Shot a-stern; whenever she came upon his Lee Quarter, the Moor being a tall Ship, took away the Wind from the Pelican, and she could never get to Windward of him. She ply’d her fore Chase all this while, and drove the Moors from their stern Chase, but could not, as they endeavour’d to do, strike the Moors Rudder, or any other Way disable him. At length, by the Fear and bad Steerage of the Moor, the Pelican ran up along Side of them, but as she miss’d lashing, she was obliged to shoot a head; in the mean while the Moor Wore round, the Pelican put to Stays after him but not Staying, and they being all in Confusion, they Wore also; but in this Time the Moor had got the Start, and setting all the Canvas he could pack on his Ship’s Back, wrong’d the Pelican, and got off.

The Loss of this Ship made the Crew almost distracted, and made, for some Time, a great Division among them, some cursing the Ship for a heavy Sailor, and proposing to return home, others cursing themselves, and the ill Management by which they miss’d lashing, and propos’d going to Madagascar, and the breaking her up, since as she was a single Bottom, she must be worm-eaten; but Time, which mollifies the greatest Rage, abated these Contentions, and put an End to the Animosities which sprung from their Disappointment.

They being cool, resolved for the Malabar Coast, on which they took three Moor Ships in a little Time; the first they discharged, after taking out 6000 Dollars; the second they took for their own Use, mounted her with 26 Guns, and called her the Dolphin; the third they sold on the same Coast for 18000 Dollars. Their own Ship they set adrift. From this Coast they made for Madagascar, and near the Island Mascarenas lost all their Masts in a Hurricane. They put up Jury-Masts, came to St. Mary’s and new masted. Here they found Captain Culliford, Captain Shivers, and their Prize, with three Merchant Men from America, which were come to trade with them, one of which was the Pembrook, commanded by Samuel Burges, belonging to Frederick Phillips, Merchant at New-York. The Captain of the Dolphin, and some of the Men being weary of this Life, went home in these Merchant Ships, and the Crew chose one Samuel Inless, who lived on the Island, for their Captain; they fitted out for the Streights of Malacca, where they made several Prizes of Moor Ships, but of little value to them.

North on board one of the Prizes, was separated from the rest by bad Weather, and drove to great Straights for Water. The Moor Merchant, who was on board with him, and whom he had treated very humanely, shewed him a Draught, by which he came to a small Island not far from the Dutch Settlement, and watered. The Moor told him, that he ran the Risque of his Life should it be known that he had given him a Sight of this Draught. In return for this Service, when he met with his Companions, he got the Moor’s Ship discharged.

They, after this, made for Nicobar, near Achen, and, in the Way, met a large Dane Ship, which they plunder’d, and hove down by, clean’d, and return’d to Madagascar, where they shar’d their Booty, which was, besides Goods, between 3 and 400 l. a Man. A Month after their Arrival three English Men of War appear’d in Sight, the Anglesea, Captain Littleton, the Hastings, Captain White, and the Lizard, Captain Rumsey. These Ships occasioned their hawling up the Dolphin, which, as they could not get her as high as they design’d, they set Fire to.