A true reporte, of the late discoueries, and possession, taken in the right of the Crowne of Englande, of the new-found landes: by that valiaunt and worthye gentleman, Sir Humfrey Gilbert Knight Wherein is also breefely sette downe, her highnesse lawfull tytle therevnto, and the great and manifolde commodities, that is likely to grow thereby, to the whole realme in generall, and to the aduenturers in particular. Together with the easines and shortnes of the voyage. Seene and allowed.

A TRVE REPORTE , Of the late discoueries , and possession , taken in the right of the Crowne of Englande , of the New-found Landes : By that valiaunt and worthye Gentleman , Sir Humfrey Gilbert Knight . Wherein is also breefely sette downe , her highnesse lawfull Tytle therevnto , and the great and manifolde Commodities , that is likely to grow thereby , to the whole Realme in generall , and to the Aduenturers in particular . Together with the easines and shortnes of the Voyage .

Seene and allowed .

At London , Printed by I. C. for Iohn Hinde , dwelling in Paules Church-yarde , at the signe of the golden Hinde . Anno. 1583.

To the Right Honourable Sir Fraunces Walsingham Knight , principall Secretarie to the Queene , her most excellent Maiestie .

HOW much more happie might I account my selfe , ( right honourable Sir ) if I had so well applied my time in this Vniuersitie , as through my more dilligent studye , I were able to handle the matter , ( which I haue in this Treatise taken vppon me ) as the worthynes thereof dooth meryte .

Truely Sir I was for a time , drawen into a doubtfull ballaunce , whether I should proceede therein , as my affection intised me , or leaue it off , as good discretion aduised mee . Eftsoones haue I righte hartely wished that some of those rype , and perfect witts , adorned with like iudgement , ( wherewith God hath plentifully blessed this our age ) woulde haue imploied their pennes , learnedly to haue sette foorth thys cause : But seeing that in wishing , I doo fynde nothing , but to wish , and that the case so standeth , as eyther the thyng , right woorthye bothe knowledge , and practise , shall styll lie in a slumber , or rather rest buryed in the graue of obliuion , vnlesse I doo make publique my weaknesse and insufficiencye , and therby subiect my selfe to the diuersitye of mens iudgements , I haue made choyse , rather to indure the disgrace of the one , then that my Countrey shoulde sustaine the inconuenience of the other , trusting that your honour ( who hath hetherto beene a principall Patron of this Action ) will vpon my humble sute vouchsafe your fauourable protection heereof . For wee doo reade ( right honourable ) that Archimedes in respecte of his grauitie and wisedome ) helde that reputation amongst the Syracusans , that whatsoeuer he allowed , was accounted for good : which historye , if I shoulde apply vnto your honour perticularlie , as both aptlie and truely I could , I might ( in the opinion of some men ) incurre the suspition of flattery , and receiue from your Honour but the like aunswer , which King Theseus made vnto blind Oedipus .

I doo not ( quoth hee ) O Oedipus , honour my selfe with other mens words , but with mine owne works . In silence therefore will I passe your ready and vertuous disposition , bothe honourably to fauour , and fauourably to further all such attemptes as seeme pleasing to GOD and profitable to your Countrey , both which ( by the testimony of good writers , the opininion of wise men , and experience of great trauailors , these Westerne Discoueries doo certainly promise . In regarde whereof , I doo the rather presume to preferre this Pampflet to bee Patronized by so woorthy a personne , whereby my escapes may bee the more easilye excused , my willing paynes the better accepted , and the voyage more effectually supplyed .

Thus beeing lothe any longer to detayne your honour from your weightye affayres , I humblye take leaue , beseeching GOD manie yeeres to lengthen your life , with much encrease of honour . From my lodging in Oxforde , the tweluth of Nouember .

Your Honours poore Scholler , in all seruice to vse . G. P.

❧ The Table of the Chapters , containing the principall matters in this Booke . 1 The first Chapiter , wherein the Argument of the Booke is contayned . 2 The seconde Chapiter , sheweth that it is lawfull & necessary , to trade and traficke with the Sauages . And to plant in theyr Countreys . And deuideth planting into two sortes . 3 The third Chapiter , dooth shewe the lawfull Title , which the Queenes most excellent Maiestie hath vnto those Countreys , which through the ayde of almighty GOD are to be inhabited . 4 The fourth Chapiter sheweth , how that the trade , traficke and planting in those Countreys , is likely to prooue very profitable to the whole Realme in generall . 5 The fift Chapiter , sheweth that the trading and planting in those Countryes , is likely to prooue to the perticuler profit of all the Aduenturers . 6 The sixt Chapiter , sheweth that the traficke and planting in those Countryes , shall bee vnto the Sauages themselues very beneficiall and gainfull . 7 The seauenth Chapiter , sheweth that the planting there is not a matter of such charge or diffyculty , as many woulde make it seeme to bee . 8 The Contents of Articles of Assuraunce , between the Principal assignes of Sir Humfrey Gilbert Knight , & the foure sortes of Aduenturers , with them in the voyage for the Westerne Discoueries . The ende of the Table .

❧ Sir William Pelham Knight , in commendation of the discourse following . LIke as the Fishes , breeding in the deepe , Through all the Ocean are allowed to raung : Nor forst in any certaine boundes to keepe , But as their motions carry them to chaung . To men like libertie , dooth reason giue : In choise of soile , through all the world to liue . To valiaunt mindes each land is a natiue soile , and vertue findes no dwelling place amis . Regard of honour measures not the toyle , To seeke a seat wherein contentment is . That seat , that soile , that dwelling place of rest : In this discourse , most liuelie is exprest . Our forren neighbours bordring hard at hand , Haue found it true , to many a thousands gaine : And are inritcht by this abounding land , While pent at home , like sluggard●s we remaine . But though they haue , to satisfie their will : Inough is left , our cofers yet to fill . Then England thrust among them for a share , Since title iust , and right is wholie thine : And as I trust the sequell shall declare , Our lucke no worse , then theirs before hath beene . For where the attempt , on vertue dooth depend : No doubt but God , will blesse it in the ende . William Pelham .

❧ Sir Fraunces Drake Knight in commendation of this Treatise . WHho seekes , by worthie deedes , to gaine renowme for hire : Whose hart , whose hand , whose purse is prest : to purchase his desire If anie such there bee , that thristeth after Fame : Lo , heere a meane , to winne himselfe an euerlasting name . Who seekes , by gaine and wealth , t' aduaunce his house and blood : Whose care is great , whose toile no lesse , whose hope , is all for good If anie one there bee , that couettes such a trade : Lo , heere the plot for commonweath , and priuate gaine is made . Hee , that for vertues sake , will venture farre and neere : Whose zeale is strong , whose practize trueth , whose faith is void of feere ▪ If any such there bee , inflamed with holie care . Heere may hee finde , a readie meane , his purpose to declare . So that , for each degree this Treatise dooth vnfolde : The path to Fame , the proofe of zeale , and way to purchase golde , Fraunces Drake .

M. Iohn Hawkins , his opinion of this intended Voyage . IF zeale to God , or countries care , with priuate gaines accesse , Might serue for spurs vnto th' attempt this pamflet doth expresse . One coast , one course , one toile might serue , at ful to make declard A zeale to God , with countries good , and priuate gaines regarde . And for the first this enterprise the name of God shall founde , Among a nation in whose eares the same did neuer sounde . Next as an endles runuing streame , her Channels doth discharge : That swell aboue theyr boundes , into an Occean wide and large . So England that is pestered nowe , & choakt through want of ground Shall finde a soile where roome inough , and perfect doth abounde . The Romains when the number of their people grewe so great , As neither warres could waste , nor Rome suffice them for a seate . They led them forth by swarming troupes , to forraine lands amaine And founded diuers ▪ Colonies , vnto the Romaine raigne . Th' athenians vs'de the like deuise , the Argiues thus haue doone , And fierce A chilles Myrmidons when Troy was ouer runne . But Rome nor Athens nor the rest , were neuer pestered so , As England where no roome remaines , her dwellers to bestow , But shuffled in such pinching bondes , that very breath dooth lacke : And for the want of place they craule one ore anothers backe . How noblie then shall they prouide that for redresse heerein , With ready hand and open purse this action dooth beginne . Whence glory to the name of God , & countries good shall spring , And vnto all that further it , a priuate gaine shall bring . Then noble youthes couragiously this enterprise discharge , And age that cannot mannage Armes , let them support the charge . The yssue of your good intent , vndoubted will appeare , Both gratious in the sight of God , and full of honour heere . Iohn Hawkins .

Maister Captaine Bingham , his commendation vppon this Treatise . IF honour and reward , may mooue the minde , By noble actions , highlie to aspire : The forward man in this discourse shall finde , Reward and honour , propos'd for hire . Which meede , no right renowmed hart mislikes : Though gaind by passing , through ten thousand pikes The white whereat wee leuell , well is knowen , The plot and place , with finger poynted out : The name thereof through all the world is blone , To put the hard beleeuers out of doubt . Our forren neighbours , like it to their gaine : And sucke the sweete , while sleeping we remaine . The iorney is but easie to bee gonne , The frozen Pole disioyned farre dooth lye : We shape our course , farre from the burning Zonne , The soile is subiect to a milder skye . And by proofe , of many recordes tride : The Paradise , of all the world beside : Then launch ye noble youthes into the maine , No lurking perrils lye amidde the way : Your trauell shall retourne you treble gaine , and make your names renoumed another day . For valiaunt mindes , through twentie Seas will roome : And fish for lucke , while sluggardes lye at home . Richard Bingham .

❧ Maister Captaine Frobisher , in commendation of the voyage . A Pleasaunt ayre , a sweete and firtell soile , A certaine gaine , a neuer dying praise : An easie passage , voide of lothsome toile , Found out by some , and knowen to mee the waies . All this is there then who will refraine to trie : That loues to liue abroade , or dreades to die . Martin Frobisher .

Maister Captaine Chester , his commendation of this Treatise . MArke well this booke when you to reade beginne , And finde you shall great secretes hid therein . For with your selues you may imagine thus , That God hath left this honour vnto vs . The iourney knowne , the passage quicklie runne , The land full rich , the people easilie wunne . Whose gaines shal be the knowledge of our faith , And ours such ritches as the country hath . Pinche not for pence to set this action out , Poundes will returne , thereof be not in doubt . Your countrey shall be bounde due thankes to giue , For that the poore heereby you may relieue . Vnto your Prince good seruice you shall doo , And vnto God , a worke right gratefull to . Iohn Chester .

Mathew Roydon maister of Arte to his fellowe Student . TO prayse thy booke because I am thy freende , Though it be common and thy due indeede : Perhaps it may some daintie eare offende , Reproofe repines that vertue hath her meede . Yet neuerthlesse how euer thinges succeede , Sith to no other ende thy booke was made : All that I wish , is that thou mayest perswade . Mathew Roydon .

❧ Maister Anthony Parkhurst in commendation of this Treatise . BEholde a worke that dooth reueale , The ready way to welth and fame . Commodious to the common weale . And iust without impeache of blame . Which followed as the course doth lie , May make all Englande thriue thereby . It is not fond surmisde report , Nor phantasie vaine heades to feede : The mention of the trueth , coms short , And lesser then the thing indeede . Of recorde many thousandes are , That can all this and more declare . Howe happy were our England then , ( Sith neither men nor shipping want ) Some good and well disposed men , An other England there would plant ? And so employ a number there , Whose persons may be spared heere Th' atempt coulde neuer faile his fame , Nor proofe returne without effect : For commonlie all actions frame , Where Christian cause hath cheefe respect . And he that in the heauens aboue doth raigne , ( No doubt ) will blesse the sequell of theyr payne . Anthonie Parkhurst .

Arthur Hawkins in commendation of this Treatise . MY freendes , if at Th' exchaunge a man shoulde goe and tell , that such , and such commodities he had to sell. Whereof we stood in neede and scarcelie to be founde , Whereby a quicke returne with profit woulde redounde . I doubt not ere I past , but you would craue the sight , Of these commended wares , and buy them if you might . Y' are proferd at this time , fayre Grapes to make your wine , The pleasaunt fruites of Spaine , the Figs and Orenge fine . The speckled Russian Furres , that Esterlings vs sendes , The Rosen , Pitch , and Deales that Dansk and Denmarke lendes . The Mettall heere is showne that with a quenchles fire , Inflames our thirsting hartes vnstaunched in desire . A bargaine may you haue , t' is put into your handes , Of all commodities you haue from other landes . And at so easie price you can not choose but gaine : A trifle is the most , together with your paine , But what is that some sayes ? our Englishmen giues eare , Onelie to gaine , God shielde it shoulde be true I heare . If we religious be , let s rigge our shippes with speede , And carry Christ to these poore souls , that stande in neede , Why pause yee therevpon ? the fraight will quite the charge , For what is doone for God , dooth finde rewarde full large . A. H.

Iohn Achelley Cyttyzen and Marchantailour of London , for conclusion . IF truth and praise haue power , to make this matter gratious : What neede we then extoll the thing , hath beene commended thus . And by the better sorte that wright , of truth and knowledge so : As nothing of this worke , they promised further then they know . Beleeue them for they be our freendes , and with our Counties weale : Let vs imbrase that God and truth , so loouinglie reueale . Whereof the merrit is no lesse , then is the bruted Fame : Aske straungers and that noble minde , that did attempt the same : To whom we owe the titles , that to Vertues Nimpes are due : So good a Knight whom English men , in vertue should persue . No doubt but God will blesse th' atempt , succeed him roundly then : And in this Voyage follow fast , you that bee English men . With such supplie from time to time , as what is well begonne : Bee not for want of men and aide , through slackfulnes vndoone . So shall you harbour in your hartes , the seedes of magnanimitie : A vertue where with all , the Romaines did enlarge their Empery . Be you prepared for euery foe , and be couragious then : For that you slippe through negligence , will fall to other men . Enuie hath eyes to see afarre , your new attempt will whet : A number more to seeke therefore , if you your selues forget . Send foorth with speede , get footing there and make prouision : T is ill for vs to linger thus , and talke thereof so longe . Iohn Achelley .

❧ The firste Chapiter , wherein the Argument of the ` Booke is Contayned .

IT was my fortune ( good Reader ) not many dayes past , to meete with a right honest and discrete Gentleman , who accompanied that valiant & worthy Knight Sir Humfry Gilbert , Maister Edward Hay in this last iourney for the Westerne discoueries . And is owner and Captaine of the onelie Vessell which is as yet returned from thence :

By him I did vnderstande , that Sir Humfrey departed the coaste of Englande the eleuenth of Iune last past , with fiue sayle of Shippes from Caushenbay neere Plimmouth , wherof one of the best forfooke his companie , the thirtenth day of the same moneth , and returned into England .

The other foure ( through the assistaunce of almightye GOD ) did arriue at Saint Iohns Hauen , Sir Humfrey Gilbert did arriue at S. Iohn● hauen in NewfoundeLand , the 3. of August . Anno. Do. 1583. in Newfounde Lande , the thyrd of August last . Vpon whose arriuall all the Maisters and cheefe Mariners of the English Flete , which were in the sayd Hauen before , endeuouring to fraughte themselues with Fysh , repayred vnto Sir Humfrey , whom he made acquainted with the effect of his commission : which being doone , he promised to intreate them and their goods well and honourably as dyd become her maiesties Lieftennaunt . They did all welcome him in the best sorte that they coulde , and shewed him and his , all such courtesies as that place coulde affoorde or yeelde .

Then he went to viewe the Countrey , being wel accompanied with most of his Captaines & Soldiers . They found the same very temperate , Among these there was founde the tract of a beast of ● . inches and a halfe ouer but somewhat warmer then Englande at that season of the yeere , replenished with Beastes & great store of Fowle of diuers kindes : And Fish of sundry so●tes , both in the salte water and in the fresh , in so greate plentie as might suffice to victuall an Armie , and they are verie easilie taken . What sundrie other commodities for this Realme , right necessarie the same dooth yeelde , you shall vnderstande in this treatise heereafter , in place more conuenient .

On munday being the fift of August , the Generall caused his Tent to be set vpon the side of an hill , in the viewe of all the Flete of Englishmen and Straungers , which were in number betweene thirty and fortie sayle , then being accompanied with all his Captaines , Maisters , Gentlemen & other Soldiers , he caused all the Maisters , and principall Officers of the Shippes , as well Englishmen as Spaniardes , Portingals , and of other nations to repayre vnto his Tent : And then and there , in the presence of them all , he did cause hys commission , vnder the great seale of England to bee openlie and solempnlie reade vnto them , whereby were graunted vnto him his heyres , & assignes , by the Queenes most excellent Maiestie , manie great and large royalties , liberties , and priuiledges . Sir Humfrey tooke possession of the N●w found l●●de in the right of the crowne of Englande . The effect whereof being signified vnto the Straungers by an Interpretor , he tooke possession of the sayd land in the right of the Crowne of England by digging of a Turfe and receiuing the same with an Hasell wande , deliuered vnto him , after the manner of the lawe and custome of England .

Then he signified vnto the company both strangers & others that from thence forth , they were to liue in that Land , as the Territories appertayning to the Crowne of England , Three lawes established there by Sir Humfrey . and to be gouerned by such Lawes as by good aduise shoulde bee set downe , which in all poyntes ( so neere as might be ) shold be agreeable to the Lawes of England : And for to put the same in execution , presentlie he ordeined and established three Lawes .

Fyrst , that Religion publiquely exercised , should be such and none , other then is vsed in the Church of England .

The seconde , that if any person should bee lawfully conuicted of any practise against her Maiestie ▪ her crowne and dignity , to be adiudged as traytors according to the Lawes of Englande .

The thyrd , if any shoulde speake dishonourably of her Maiestie , the partie so offending , to loose his eares , hys Shippe and goods , to be confiscate to the vse of the Generall .

All men did verie willingly submit themselues to these Lawes . Sundry persons , be came Tennants to Sir Humfrey , & doo maintaine possession for him in diver● places there . Then he caused the Queenes maiesties Armes , to be engraued , sett vppe , and erected , with great solempnity . After this , diuers English men , made sute vnto Sir Humfrey to haue of him by inheritaunce , they accustomed Stages , standinges and drying places , in sundry partes of that Land for theyr Fish as a thing that they doo make great accompte off , which he graunted vnto them , in fee farme . And by thys meanes , he hath possession mayntained for him , in many partes of that Country . To be briefe , he dyd lette , sette , giue and dispose of many thinges , as absolute gouernour there , by vertue of her maiesties letters pattents .

And after theyr Shippes were repayred , whereof one , hee was driuen to leaue behinde , bothe for want of men sufficient to furnish her , as also to carrie home such sicke persons as were not able to proceede any further : He departed from thence the 20 of August , with the other three , namelie , the Delight , wherein was appointed Captaine in Maister William Winters place , ( that thence returned immediatlie for Englande ) Maister Morries Browne : the Golden Hynde , in which was Captaine and owner , Maister Edwarde Hay : and the little Frigat where the Generall himselfe did goe , seeming to him most fitt to discouer and approche the Shoare .

The 21. day they came to Cape Rase , towarde the South partes whereof , lying a while becalmed , they tooke Codd in largenes and quantitie , exceeding the other parts of New-found Lande , where any of them had beene . And from thence , trending the Coast West , towarde the Bay of Placencia . The Generall sent certain men a Shoare , to view the countrey , which to them as they sayled along , seemed pleasaunt . Whereof his men at theyr returne gaue great commendation , likeing so well of the place , as they would willinglie haue stayed and wintred there . But hauing the winde fayre & good , they proceeded on theyr course towards the fyrme of Ameryca , which by reason of continuall Fogges , at that time of the yeere especially : they coulde neuer see , till Cox Maister of the Golden Hinde did discerne Lande , & presently lost sight thereof againe , at what time they were all vpon a breache in a great and outragious storme , hauing vnder 3. fadome water . But God deliuered the Frigat and the Golden Hinde , from this great daunger . And the Delight in the presence of them all was lost , to theyr vnspeakable greefe , with all theyr cheefe victuall , munition , and other necessary prouisions , and other thinges of value not fitt heere to be named . Wherevppon , by reason also that Winter was come vpon them , and fowle wether increased with Fogges and Mysts that so couered the Land , as without daunger of perishing they coulde not approche it : Sir Humfrey Gilbert and Maister Hays , were compelled much against theyr wills to retyre homewardes . And beeing 300. Leagues on theyr way , were afterwarde by tempestious weather , seperated the one from the other , the 9. of September last , since which time , Maister Hay with his Barke , is safelie arriued , but of Sir Humfrey as yet , we heare no certaine newes .

Vppon this reporte ( together with my former intent , to write some briefe discourse in the commendation of this so noble and woorthy an enterprise ) I did call to my remembraunce , Plutnrch . the Historie of Themystocles the Grecian , ( who beeing a right noble and valiant Captaine ) signified vnto hys Countrimen , the cittizens of Athens , that hee had inuented a deuise for theyr common wealth very profitable , but it was of such importaunce and secrecie , that it ought not to be reuealed , before priuate conference had with some perticuler prudent person of their choise .

The Athenians knowing Aristides the Philosopher , to be a man indued with singuler wisedome and vertue , made choyse of him to haue conference with Themystocles , and therevppon to yeelde his opinion to the Cittizens concerning the sayd deuice : which was , that they might set on fire the Nauie of theyr enemies , with great facilitie as hee had layde the plotte : Aristides made relation to the Cittizens , that the stratageme ( deuised by Themystocles ) was a profitable practise for the common wealth but it was dishonest . The Athenians ( without further demaunde what the same was ) dyd by common consent reiecte and condemne it , preferring honest and vpright dealing before profite .

By occasion of this historie , I drewe my selfe into a more deeper consideration , of thys late vndertaken voyage , whether it were as well pleasing to almightie God , as profitable to men ? as lawfull as it seemed honourable . As well gratefull to the Sauages , as gainfull to the Christians . And vpon mature deliberation , I founde the action to bee honest and profitable , and therefore allowable by the opinion of Aristides if he were nowe aliue , which beeing by me heerein sufficiently prooued , ( as by Gods grace I purpose to doo ) I doubt not but that all good mindes , wyll endeuour themselues to be assistauntes to this so commendable an enterprise , by the valiant and woorthy Gentlemen our Countrimen alreadie attempted and vndertaken .

Nowe whereas I doo vnderstande that Sir Humfrey Gilbert , Apparation in hand for a newe supply . his adherents , associates , and freendes doo meane with a conuenient supplie ( with as much speede as may bee ) to maintaine , pursue and followe , this intended voyage already in part performed , and ( by the assistaunce of almightie God ) to plant themselues and theyr people in the continent of the hether part of America , betweene the degrees of 30. and 60. of septentrionall latitude . ( Within which degrees by computation Astronomicall and Cosmographicall are doubtles to be founde , Englishmen Ma. Iohn Hawkins Sir Fraunces Drake Ma. William Winter . Ma Iohn Chester . Ma. Martin Furbisher . Anthony Parkchurst . William Batts . Iohn Lowell Dauid Ingram . Strangers French . Sir Iohn Ribaulte . Iaques Cartier . Andrew Theuet . Mounser Gou●den . Mounser Popellynere Iohn Verasanus . Italian . Christopher Columnus all thinges that be necessarie profitable , or delectable for mans life . The climate mylde and temperate , neither too hotte not too colde , so that vnder the cope of heauen there is not any where to be founde a more conuenient place to plant and inhabite in : which manie notable Gentlemen , bothe of our owne nation and straungers ( who haue beene traueilers ) can testifie : and that those Countries are at this day inhabited with Sauages who haue no knowledg of God ▪ Is it not therfore ( I say ) to be lamented , that these poore Pagans , so long liuing in ignoraunce and Idolatry , and in sorte , thirsting after christianitie , ( as may appeare by the relation of such as haue trauailed in those partes , ) that our heartes are so hardned , that fewe or none can be found which wil put to theyr helping hands , and applie themselues to the relieuing of the miserable and wretched estate of these sillie soules ?

Whose Countrey dooth ( as it were with arme aduaunced ) aboue the climats both of Spayne and Fraunce , stretche out it selfe towardes England onelie . In manner praying our ayde and helpe , as it is not onelie set foorth in Mercators generall Mappe , but it is also founde to bee true by the discouery of our nation , and other straungers , who haue often times trauailed vpon the same Coastes .

Christopher Columnus of famous memorie the firste instrument to manifest the great glorie & mercy of almightie God in planting the Christian Faith , in those so long vnknown regions , God doth not alwaies begin his greatest workes by the greatest persons hauing in purpose to acquaint ( as he did ) that renowmed Prince , the Queenes Maiesties Grandfather , King Henry the seuenth , with his intended voiage for the Westerne Discoueries , was not onely derided and mocked generally euen heere in Englande , but afterward became a laughing stocke to the Spaniardes themselues , who at thys day ( of all other people ) are moste bounden to laude and prayse God , who first sturred vppe the man to that enterprise .

And while he was attending there to acquaint the King of Castile ( that then was ) with his intended purpose , by howe many wayes and meanes was hee derided ? His custome was to bow himselfe very lowe in making of curtesie . Some scorned the pildnes of his garments , some tooke occasion to iest at his simple and silly lookes , others asked if this were he , that lowts so lowe , which did take vppon him to bring men into a Country that aboundeth wyth Gold , Pearle , & Precious stones ? If hee were any such man ( sayd they ) he woulde carrie another manner of countenaunce with him , and looke somewhat loftier . Thus some iudged him by his garments and others by his looke and countenaunce , but none entered into the consideration of the inward man .

In the ende , what successe his voyage had , who list to reade the Decades . The Historie of the West Indies , the conquest of Hernando Cortese about Mexico , Hernando Cortese . and those of Francisco Pizare in Peru about Casamalcha and Cusco , may knowe more perticulerly . Francisco . Pyzare All which their discoueries traueils , and conquests , are extant to be had in the English tongne . This deuice was then accounted a fantasticall imagination , and a drowsie dreame .

But the sequel thereof , hath since awaked out of dreames thousandes of soules to knowe theyr Creator , being thereof before that time altogether ignoraunt . And hath since made sufficient proofe , neyther to be fantasticke , nor vainely imagined .

Withall , how mightely hath it inlarged the dominions of the Crowne of Spayne , and greatly enritching the subiectes of the same , let all men consider . Besides , it is well knowne , that sithence the time of Columnus his first discouerie , through theyr planting , possessing , and inhabiting those partes , there hath beene transported and brought home into Europe , greater store of Golde , Siluer , Pearle , and Pretious stones , then heeretofore hath beene in all ages , since the creation of the worlde .

I doe therefore hartelie wish , that seeing it hath pleased almighty God , of hys infinite mercie at the length , to awake some of our worthy Countrey men , out of that drowsie dreame , wherein we all haue so long slumbered .

That wee may nowe not suffer it to quaile for want of maintenance , that by these valiant Gentlemen our Countreymen is so nobly begun & enterprised . For which purpose , I haue taken vpon me to write this simple shorte treatise , hoping that it shall be able to perswade such as haue beene , and yet doo continue detractors & hinderers of this iourney , ( by reason perhappes that they haue not deliberately and aduisedly entered into the iudgment of the matter ) that yet now vpon better consideration they will become fauorable furtherers of the same . And that such as are already well affected there vnto , will continue theyr good dispositions . And with all , I most humbly pray all such as are no Nyggardes of their purses , in buying of costly and rich apparrell , and liberall Contributors , in setting foorth of games , A reasonable request . pastimes , feastings and banquettes , ( whereof the charge being past , there is no hope of publique profit or priuate commoditie ) that henceforth they will bestowe & employe theyr liberalitie ( heeretofore that way expended ) to the furtherance of these so commendable purposed proceedings .

And to this ende haue I taken penne in hande , as in conscience therevnto mooued , desiring much rather , that of the great multitude , which this Realme dooth nourish , farre better able to handle this matter then I my selfe am , it woulde haue pleased some one of them to haue vndertaken the same . But seeing they are silent , and that it falleth to my lott to put penne to the paper , I will indeuour my selfe , and doo stande in good hope ( though my skill and knowledge be simple , yet through the assistaunce of almighty GOD ) to prooue that this voyage , late enterprised , for trade , traficke , and planting , in America , is an action tending to the lawfull enlargement of her Maiesties dominions , The argument of the Booke . commodious to the whole Realme in generall . Profitable to the aduenturers in perticuler , beneficial to the Sauages , and a matter to be attained without any great daunger or difficultie .

And lastlye ( which moste of all is ) A thing likewise tending to the honor and glory of almighty God : And for that the lawfulnes to plant in those Countreyes , in some mens iudgements , seemeth very doubtfull , I will beginne with the proofe of the lawfulnesse of trade , traficke , and planting .

The seconde Chapiter , sheweth that it is lawfull and necessarye to trade and traficke with the Sauages . And to plant in their Countries . And deuideth planting into two sortes .

ANd firste for traficke , I say that the Christians may lawfully trauaile into those Countries and abide there , whom the Sauages may not iustly impugne and forbidde , in respect of the mutuall society & fellowship betweene man and man prescribed by the Lawe of Nations .

For from the first beginning of the creation of the world and from the renuing of the same after Noes floode , all men haue agreed , that no violence shoulde be offered to Ambassadours . That the Sea with his Hauens should bee ●●●mon . That such as should fortune to be taken in warre , ●●●ld be seruauntes or slaues . And that Straungers sholde 〈◊〉 bee dryuen away from the place or Countrey where . 〈◊〉 they doo come .

If it were so then , I demaunde in what age , and by what Lawe is the same forbidden or denied since ? For who doubteth but that it is lawfull for Christians to vse trade and traficke with Infidels or Sauages , carrying thether such commodities as they want , and bringing from thence some parte of theyr plentie .

A thing so commonly and generally practised , bothe in these our dayes , and in times past ▪ beyonde the memory of man , both by Christians and Infidels , that it needeth no further proofe .

And for as much as the vse of trade and traficke , ( bee it neuer so profitable ) ought not to bee preferred before the planting of Christian fayth . I will therefore somewhat entreate of planting ( wythout which , Christian Rellgion can take no roote , be the Preachers neuer so carefull and diligent ) which I meane to deuide in two sortes . The principall causes why thys viage is vndertaken .

The first , when Christians by the good likeing and willing assent of the Sauages , are admitted by them to quiet possession .

The seconde , when Christians beeing vniustly repulsed , doo seeke to attaine and maintaine the right for which they doo come .

And thoughe in regarde of the establishment of Christian Religion , The first kinde of Planting . eyther of bothe maye bee lawfullye and iustlye exercised . Whereof manye examples may bee founde , as well in the tyme of Moises and Iosua , and other Rulers before the byr●●●f Christ . As of many vertuous Emperours and King 〈◊〉 thence his incarnation : yet doo I wish , that before the ●●●cond be put in practise , a proofe may bee made of the fir●● , sauing that for theyr safety as well against the Sauages , as all other sorraine enemies , they should first well and strong lie fortefie themselues , which beeing doone , then by all fayre speeches , and euery other good meanes of perswasion to seeke to take away all occasions of offence .

As letting them to vnderstand , howe they came not to theyr hurt , but for theyr good , and to no other ende , but to dwell peaceably amongst them , and to trade and traficke with them for theyr owne commoditie , without molesting or greeuing them any way , which must not be doone by wordes onely but also by deedes .

For albeit , to maintainer right and repell iniurie , be a iust cause of warre , yet must there heereof be heedefull care had , that whereas the Sauages be fearefull by nature , and fonde otherwise , the Christians shoulde doo theyr best endeuour to take away such feare as may growe vnto them by reason of theyr straunge apparrell , Armour , and weapon , or such like , by quiet & peaceable conuersation , & letting them liue in securitie & keeping a measure of blameles defencē , with as little discommoditie to the Sauages as may bee , for this kinde of warre woulde be onely defensiue and not offensiue .

And questionles there is great hope & likely hoode that by this kinde of meanes , we should bring to passe all effectes to our desired purposes : Considering that all creatures , by constitution of nature , are rendred more tractable and easier w●nne for all assayes , by cour●esie and myldnes , then by crueltie or roughnes : and therefore beeing a principle taught vs by naturall reason , it is first to be put in vre .

For albeit as yet the Christians are not so throughlye furnished with the perfectnes of theyr language , either to expresse theyr mindes to them , or againe to conceiue the Sauages intent . Yet for the present opportunitie , such pollicie may be vsed by freendly signes , and courteous tokens towardes them , as the Sauages may easily perceiue , ( were theyr sences neuer so grosse ) an assured freendshippe to be offered them , and that they are encountered with such a nation , as bringes them benefite , commoditie , peace , tranquillity and safetie . To further this , and to accomplish it in deedes , there must be presented vnto them gratis , some kindes of our peittie marchaundizes and trifles : As looking Glasses , Bells , Beades , Braceletts , Chaines , or Collers of Bewgle , Christall , Amber , Iett , or Glasse &c. For such be the things , though to vs of small value , yet accounted by them of high price and estimation : and soonest will induce theyr Barbarous natures to a likeing and a mutuall society with vs .

Moreouer , it shall be requisite , either by speeche , if it bee possible , either by some other certaine meanes , to signifie vnto them . That once league of freendshippe , with all louing conuersation , beeing admitted betweene the Christians and them ▪ that then the Christians from thence forth will alwayes bee ready with force of Armes to assiste and defende them in theyr iust quarrelles , from all inuasions , spoyles and oppressions , offered or to bee offered them by any Tyraunts , Aduersaries , or theyr next borderers : and a benefit is so much the more to be esteemed , by how much the person vppon whome it is bestowed standeth in neede thereof .

For it appeareth by the relation of a countreyman of ours , This Dauid Ingram was in this last iourney w●th Sir Humfrey and is very desirous to be imployed ●●ether againe . namely Dauid Ingram , ( who trauelled in those countries xj . monethes and more ) That the Sauages generally for the most part , are at continuall warres wyth their next adioyning neighbours , and especially the Canniballs , beeing a cruell kinde of people , whose foode is mans flesh , & haue teeth like dogges , and doo pursue them with rauenous myndes to eate theyr flesh , and deuoure them .

And it is not to be doubted , but that the Christians may in this case iustly and lawfully ayde the Sauages against the Canniballs , So that it is very likelie , that by this means wee shall not onely mightely stirre and unflame theyr rude myndes gladly to embrace the louing companye of the Christians , proffering vnto them bothe commodities succor , and kindnes , But also by theyr francke consents , shall easily enioy such competent quantity of Lande , as euery way shall be corespondent to the Christians expectation , & contentation , considering the great aboundance that they haue of Lande , and howe small account they make thereof . Taking no other fruits thereby then such as the ground of it selfe dooth naturally yeelde . And thus much concerning the first sort of planting , which as I assuredly hope , so I most hartelie pray may take effect and place .

But if after these good and fayre meanes vsed , the Sauages neuertheles will not be heerewithall satisfied , The second kinde of Planting . but barbarously wyll goe about to practise violence either in repelling the Christians from theyr Portes and safe Landinges or in withstanding them afterwardes to enioye the rights for which both painfully & lawfully they haue aduentured themselues thether .

Then in such a case I holde it no breache of equitye for the Christians to defende themselues , to pursue reuenge with force , and to doo whatsoeuer is necessary for the attayning of theyr safety : For it is allowable by all Lawes in such distreses , to resist violence with violence . And for theyr more securitie to increase their strength by building of fortes , for auoyding the extremities of iniurious dealing .

Wherein if also they shall not be suffered in reasonable quietnes to continue , there is no barre ( as I iudge but that in stoute assemblies , the Christians may issue out , and by strong hande pursue theyr enemies , subdue them , take posession of theyr Townes , Citties , or Villages , ( and in auoyding murtherous tyranny ) to vse the Lawe of Armes , as in like case among all nations at thys day is vsed : and most especially to the ende they may with securitye holde theyr lawfull possession , least happily after the departure of the Christians , such Sauages as haue beene conuerted , shoulde afterwardes through compulsion and enforcmēnt of theyr wicked Rulers , returne to theyr horrible Idolatry ( as did the children of Israell , Iudges . 6. after the decease of Iosua ) and continue theyr wicked custome of most vnnaturall sacrificing of humaine creatures .

And in so dooing , doubtles the Christians shall no whitt at all transgresse the bondes of equitie or ciuility , for as much as in former ages , ( yea before the incarnation of Christ ) the like hath beene doon by sundry Kings and Princes , Gouerners of the children of Israell : cheefely in respect to beginne theyr Planting , for the establishment of Gods word : as also since the natiuity of Christ , myghty and pussaunt Emperours and Kinges haue performed the like , I say to plant , possesse , and subdue . For proofe whereof , I wyll alledge you examples of bothe tymes .

We reade in the olde testament , howe that after Noes fludde was ceased , restoration of mankinde began onely of those fewe of Noes children and family as were by God pre elected to be saued in the Arke with him , whose seed in processe of time , was multiplyed to infinite numbers of nations , which in diuers sortes deuided themselues to sundry quarters of the earth . And forasmuch as all their posteritie being mightely encreased followed not the perfect lyfe of Noe theyr predecessor , God chose out of the multitude , a peculiar people to himselfe , to whome afterwardes beeing vnder the gouernement of Moises in Mount Synay , hee made a graunt to inherite the Lande of Canaan , called the Land of Promise , with al the other rich and fertile Countryes next adioyning thervnto . Neuerthelesse , before they came to possession therof , hauing beene afflicted with many greeuous punishments and plagues for theyr sinnes , they fell in dispayre to enioy the same .

But beeing encouraged and comforted by theyr Rulers , ( men of God ) they proceeded , arming themselues with all patience , to suffer what soeuer it shoulde please God to sende : and at last attaining to the Lande , they were encountered with great numbers of strong people and myghtye Kinges .

Notwithstanding , Iosua . 4. Iosua theyr leader , replenished with the spirite of God , beeing assured of the iustnes of his quarrell , gathered the cheefe strength of the children of Israell together , to the number of 40000. with whom he safely passed the huge Riuer Iourden , and hauing before sent priuie spyes for the discouery of the famous Cittie Ierico , to vnderstand the certaintie of the Cittizens estate , Iosua . 6. he foorth with came thether , and enuironed it rounde aboute , with his whole power the space of seuen dayes .

In which respite , perceiuing none of the Gentiles disposed to yeeld or call for mercie , he then commaunded ( as God before had appointed ) that both the Cittie Iericho should be burned , yea , and all the inhabitaunts , as well olde as young , with all their cattell , should be destroied , onelie excepted Rahab , her kindred and Familie , because she before had hid secretly the messengers of Iosua , that were sent thether as spies . As for all their golde , siluer , precious stones , or vesselles of brasse , they were reserued and consecrated to the Lords treasurie .

In like manner he burned the cittie Hay , Iosua . 8. slew the inhabitants thereof , and hanged vp their King . But for so much as the Gebionites ( fearing the like euent ) sent Ambassadors vnto Iosua , to intreate for grace , fauour , and peace : he commaunded that all their liues should be saued , and that they should be admitted to the companie of the children of Israel . Iosua . 9. Yet vnderstanding afterwards they wrought this by a pollicie , he vsed them as drudges to hewe wood & to carie water , and other necessaries for his people . Thus beganne this valiaunt Captaine his conquest , which he pursued and neuer left till he had subdued all the Hethites , Amorites , Cananites , Pheresites , Heuites , and Iebusites , with all their Princes and Kings , Iudg. 11. 13 being thirtie and one in number , and diuers other straunge Nations besides , whose lands and dominions , he wholie deuided among Gods people .

After that Iosua was deceased , Iuda was constituted Lord ouer the Armie , who receiuing like charge from God pursued the proceedings of the holie Captaine Iosua , and vtterlie vanquished many Gentiles , Idolaters , and aduersaries to the children of Israel , Iudg. 1. with all such Rulers or Kings , as withstoode him , and namely , Adonibezek , the most cruell tyraunt : whose thombes and great toes he caused to be cut off , A good not for all Conquerers to be mercifull . for so much as he had doon the like before vnto seuenty Kings , whome being his prisoners , he forced to gather vp their victualles vnderneath his Table . In this God shewed his iustice to reuenge tyranny . We reade likewise , that Gedeon a most puissant & noble warrior , so behaued himself in following the woorthy actes of Iosua and Iuda , Iudg. 6. 7. That in short time he not onely deliuered the children of Israel from the hands of the multitude of the fierce Madianites , but also subdued them and their Tyrants , whose landes he caused Gods people to possesse and inherite .

I could recite diuers other places out of the Scripture , which aptly may be applied heervnto were it not I do endeuour my selfe by all meanes to be breefe . Now in like manner will I alledge some few of Inductions out of the autenticall writings of the Ecclesiasticall Historiographers , all tending to the like argument . And first to begin with all , we doo reade . That after our sauiour Iesus Christ had suffered his passion . The apostles being inspired with the holy Ghost , India the great , was not preached vnto by the Apostles . Metrodorus the Philosopher , the fyrst discouerer of India the great . and the knowledge of all straunge languages , did immediatly dispearse themselues to sundrie partes of the world , to the preaching of the Gospell . Yet not in so generall a manner , but that there remained some farre remote Countries vnuisited by them , among the which it is reported that India the great , called the vttermost India , as yet had receiued no light of the word . But it came to passe , that one Metrodorus , a verie learned and wise Philosopher in that age , being desirous to search out vnknowne landes , did first discouer the same , finding it wonderful populous and rich , which vppon his returne being published , and for certaine vnderstoode , there was another graue Philosopher of Tyrus called Meropius , Meropius . being a christian , who did resolue himselfe ( folowing the example of Metrodorus ) to trauaile thether , and in a short time assisted but with a fewe , in a small Vessell arriued there , hauing in his company two young youthes , Edesius and Frumentius . Edesius , and Frumentius , whome ( being his schollers ) he had throughly instructed , both in lyberall Sciences and christian Religion . Now after that Meropius somewhile staying there , had ( as he thought ) sufficient vnderstanding of the Indians whole estate . He determined to depart , and to bring notice thereof vnto the Emperor , whom he meant to exhort to the conquest of the same . But by misfortune he was preuented , for being in the middest of his course on the Sea homeward , a sore tempest arose , and perforce droue him backe againe , to an vnknowne Port of the saide lande : where he by the most cruell barbarous Indians on the suddaine was slaine with all his company , Meropius slaine . except the two young schollers aforesaide , whome the barbarous Indians , by reason they were of comely stature and beautifull personages , tooke , and foorth with presented them to their King and Queene : Edisius and Frumentius preserued by the Indians . which both being verie well lyked of , the King courteously entreated , and ordeined Edesius to be his Butler , and Frumentius his Secretary , and in few yeeres by reason of their learning and ciuill gouernement , they were had in great fauour , honour , and estimation with the Princes . But the King departing this life , left the Queene his wife with her young sonne to gouerne , and gaue free scope and lybertie to the two christians , at their best pleasure to passe to their natiue soyles , allowing them all necessaries for the same . Yet the Queene who highly fauoured them , was verie sorowful they should depart , and therefore most earnestlie intreated them to tarie and assist her in the gouernement of her people , tyll such tyme as her young Soone grewe to type yeeres , which request they fulfilled ,

And Frumentius excelling Edesius farre in all wisedome , Frumentius in great fauour with the Queene of the Indians . ruled both the Queene and her subiects at his discretion , whereby he tooke occasion to put in practise priuilie , that the foundation of christian religion might be planted in the hearts of such as with whome he thought his perswasion might best preuaile , and that soonest would giue eare vnto him , which being brought to passe accordingly , he then with his fellow Edesius , An other great work of God begun by a man of meane birth . tooke leaue of the Queene to returne to his natiue countrie . And so soone as he was arriued there , he reuealed to the Emperor Constantine , the effect of all those euents : who both commending his deeds and wholie allowing thereof , by the aduise and good liking of Athanasius then Bishop of Alexandria , did arme and set foorth a conuenient power for the aide of Frumentius , in this his so godlie a purpose . Ruffinus , the Author of this storye . And by this meanes came the Emperor afterwardes by faire promises , and by force of Armes together , vnto the possession of all the Indians countrie . The author of this storie Ruffinus receiued the trueth heereof , Euse. in his ecclesiasticall history testifieth howe that Constantine the great , did enlarge his dominions by subduing of Infidels and Idolatrous nations . Eusebius lib 1. de vita Constant. Cap. 4. et Cap. 9. from the verie mouth of Edesius companion to Frumentius .

Moreouer , Eusebius in his Historie Ecclesiasticall in precise termes , and in diuers places maketh mencion how Constantine the great , not onelie enlarged his Empire by the subduing of his next neighbours , but also endeuored by all meanes , to subiect all such remote Barbarous and Heathen nations , as then inhabited the fowre quarters of the world . For ( as it is written ) the Emperor throughlie aided with a puissaunt armie of valiaunt souldiers whom he had before perswaded to christian religion , in proper person himselfe , came euen vnto this our natiue Countrie of England , then called the Island of Brittaines , bending from him full west , which he wholie conquered , made tributarie , and setled therein christian faith , and left behinde him such Rulars thereof , as to his wisedome seemed best . From thence he turned his force towards the North coast of the world , and there vtterlie subdued the rude and cruell Nation of the Scithians , whereof part by freendly perswasions , part by maine strength , he reduced the whole to christian Faith . Afterwardes he determined with himselfe to search out what straunge people inhabited in the vttermost partes of the South . Eu. eod lib. Cap. 39. And with great hazard and labour , making his iorney thether , at last became victor ouer them all , euen to the countrie of the Blemmyans , and the remote Etheopians , that now are the people of Presbiter Iohn , who yet tyl this daie , continue and beare the name of christians .

In the East likewise , what Nation soeuer at that timè he could haue notice off , he easilie wunne and brought in subiection to the Empire . So that to conclude , there was no region in any part of the world , the inhabitaunts wherof being Gentiles , though vnknowne vnto him . But in time he ouercame and vanquished .

This woorthy beginning of Constantine , Theodorit in Ecclesiast. Hist. lib , 5 , Cap. 20. both his sonnes succeeding his roome , and also diuers other Emperors afterward to their vttermost endeuor followed and continued , which all the Bookes of Eusebius more at large setteth foorth . Theodoritus likewise in his Ecclesiasticall historie maketh mencion how Theodosius the vertuous Emperour , emploied earnestlie all his time , as well in conquering the Gentiles to the knowledge of the holie Gospel , vtterlie subuerting the prophane Temples and abhominable Idolatry . As also in extinguishing of such vsurping tiraunts , Theodoritus cap. 26 eod. libro . as with Paganisme withstoode the planting of christian religion . After whose decease his sonnes , Honorius , and Arcadius , were created Emperors , the one of the East , the other of the West , who with all stoutly godlines , most carefully imitated the foresteps of their father , eyther in enlarging their territories , or increasing the christian flocke .

Moreouer , it is reported by the saide aucthor , that The odotius Iunior the Emperour , no whit inferiour in vertuous life to any of the aboue named Princes , Eod. lib. 20. chap. 36. with great study & zeale pursued , & prosecuted the Gentiles , subdued their Tyraunts and Countries , and vtterly destroied all their Idolatry , conuerting their soules to acknowledge their onelie Messias & Creator , and their countries to the enlargement of the Empire . To be breefe , who so listeth to reade Eusebius , Pamphilus , Socrates Scolasticus , Theodoritus , Hermia , Sozomen , and Euagrius Scolasticus , which all were most sage Ecclesiastical writers , shall finde great store of examples of the woorthy liues of sundry Emperors , tending all to the confirmation of my former speeches .

And for like examples of latter time ( yea , euen in the memory of man ) I shall not neede to recite any other then the conquest made of the West and East Indies , by the Kings of Spaine and Portugall , whereof there is particular mencion made in the last chapiter of this Booke . Heerein haue I vsed more copy of examples , then otherwise I would haue doone , sauing that I haue beene in place where this maner of planting the christian . Fath , hath beene thought of some to be scarce lawfull , yea , such as doo take vppon them to be more then meanely learned . To these examples could I ioyne many moe but whosoeuer is not satisfied with these fewe , may satisfie himselfe in reading at large the aucthors last aboue recited Thus haue I ( as I trust ) prooued that we may iustly trade and traffique with the Sauages , and lawfullie plant and inhabite theyr Countries .

¶ The third Chapter dooth shewe the lawfull tytle , which the Queenes most excellent Maiestie hath vnto those Countries , which through the ayde of almightie God are mente to be inhabited .

AND it is very euident that the planting there shall in time right amplie enlarge her Maiesties Territories and Dominions ( or I might rather say ) restore her to her Highnesse auncient right and interest in those Countries , 1170. Owen Gwyneth , was then Prince of North-wales . into the which a noble and woorthy personage , lyneally descended from the blood royall , borne in Wales , named Madocke ap Owen Gwyneth departing from the coast of England , about the yeere of our Lord God . 1170. arriued and there planted himselfe , Nullum tem pus occurrit Regi . and his Colonies , This Iland was discouered by Sir Humfrey & his company , in this his last iorney . and afterward returned himselfe into England , leauing certaine of his people there , as appeareth in an auncient Welch Chronicle , where he then gaue to certaine Ilandes , Beastes , and Fowles , sundrie Welch names , as the Iland of Pengwyn , which yet to this day beareth the same .

There is lykewise a Fowle in the sayde Countries , called by the same name at this daye , and is as much to saye in Englishe , as Whiteheadde , and in trueth , the sayde Fowles haue white heads .

There is also in those Countries a fruite called Gaynethes which is likewise a welch word . Moreouer , there are diuers other welch wordes at this daie in vse , Who hath also seene berded men there , which can not bee naturall cuntrimen , for that the Americans are voide of beardes . as Dauid Ingram aforesaide reporteth in his relations . All which most strongly argueth , the saide Prince with his people to haue inhabited there . And the same in effect is confirmed by Mutuzuma that mightie Emperor of Mexico , who in an Oration vnto his subiects , for the better pacifying of them , made in the presence of Hernando Curtese , vsed these speeches following .

My kinsemen , freends , and sernaunts , you do well know that eigteene yeeres I haue been your King , Mutuzuma his Oration to his subiects in presence of Hernando Curtese . as my Fathers and Grandfathers were , and alwaies I haue beene vnto you a louing Prince , and you vnto me good and obedient subiects , and so I hope you will remaine vnto me all the daies of my life . You ought to haue in remembraunce , that eyther you haue heard of your Fathers , or else our diuines haue instructed you that we are not naturallie of this Countries , which Oration was made about the yeere 1520. nor yet our Kingdome is durable , because our Forefathers came from a farre countrie , and their King and Captaine who brought them hither , returned againe to his natural countrie , saying , that he would send such as should rule and gouerne vs , if by chaunce he himselfe returned not , &c.

These be the verie words of Mutuzuma , set downe in the S●anish Chronicles , Looke the conquest of West Indi●s ●ol. 2 31. the which being throughlie considered , because they haue relation to some straunge noble person , who long before had possessed those Countries , doo all sufficientlie argue , the vndoubted title of her Maiestie : For as much as no other Nation can truelie by any Chronicles they can finde , make prescription of time for themselues , before the time of this Prince Madocke . Besides all this , for further proofe of her highnes title sithence the arriuall of this noble Britton into those partes ( that is to say ) in the time of the Queenes Maiesties Grandfather , of worthy memorie , King Henry the seuenth , Letters pattents were by his Maiestie graunted to Iohn Gabota an Italian , to Lewes , Sebastian , and Sansius , his three sonnes , to discouer remoate , Barbarous and Heathen Countries , which discouery , was afterwards executed to the vse of the crown of England , in the sayd Kings time , by Sebastian and Sansius his sonnes , Ma. Oliue● Dalbony . Ma. Edward . Reow. Ma. R. H. Ma. I. A. who were borne heere in Englande : In true testimony whereof , there is a fayre Hauen in Newfounde Lande , knowne and called vntill this day , by the name of Sansius Hauen , which prooueth that they firste discouered vpon that Coast , from the heyght of 63. vnto the Cape of Florida , as appeareth in the Decades .

And this may stande for another title to her Maiestie , but any of the foresayde titles is as much , or more then any other Christian Prince can pretende to the Indies before suche time as they had actuall possession thereof , obteyned by the discouery of Christopher Columnus , and the conquest of Vasques Numes de Balboa , Hernando Cortese , Francisco Pysare , and others . And therefore I thinke it needeles to write any more touching the lawfulnes of her Maiesties title .

The fourth Chapiter sheweth , howe that the trade traficke and planting in those Countries , is likely to prooue very profitable to the whole Realme in generall .

NOW to shew howe the same is most likely to prooue very profitable and beneficiall generallie to the whole Realme . It is verye certaine , that the greatest Iewell of this Realme , and the cheefest strength and force of the same , for defence or offence , in martiall matter and manner is the multitude of Shippes , Maisters and Marriners , ready to assist the moste stately & royall Nauie of her Maiestie , which by reason of this voyage shall haue , both increase and maintenaunce : And it is well knowne , that in sundry places of this Realme , Shippes haue beene built and sette foorth of late dayes for the trade of fishing onely : Cox the M●ster . Yet not withstanding the fishe which is taken and brought into England by the English Nauie of Fishermen , will not suffice for the expence of this realme foure moneths , if there were none els brought of straungers . And the cheefest cause why our Englishmen doo not goe so farre westerly , as the especiall fishing places doo lie , both for plenty and greatnes of fish , is for that they haue no succour and known safe harbour in those partes . But if our nation were once planted there , or neere thereaboutes : whereas they now fish but for two monethes in the yeere , they myght then fish so long as pleased themselues or rather at theyr comming find such plenty of Fish readie taken , salted & dryed , as might be sufficient to fraught them home without long delay , ( God graunting that salt may be found there ) whereof Dauid Ingram ( who trauelled in those Countries as aforesayde ) saith that there is great plentie : and withall the Climate dooth giue greate hope , that though there were none naturallye growing , yet it might aswell be made there by arte , as it is both in Rochell and Bayon , or els where . Which beeing brought to passe , shall encrease the number of our ships and Marriners , were it but in respect of fishing onelie : but much more in regarde of the sundry Marchaundises and commodities which are there founde and had in greate aboundance .

Moreouer , it is wel known that all Sauages , as wel those that dwell in the South , as those that dwell in the North , so soone as they shall begin but a little to taste of ciuillitie , will take meruailous delight in any garment be it neuer so simple : As a shirt , a blewe , yellow , redde , or greene Cotten cassocke , a Cappe or such like , and will take incredible paynes for such a trifle .

For I my selfe haue heard this reporte made sundrye times , by diuers of our Countreymen , who haue dwelt in the sotherly partes , of the West Indies , some 12. yeeres together , and some of lesse time : That the people in those partes , Clothiers . Wolmen . Carders . Spinners . Weauers . Fullers , Sheremen ▪ Diers . are easily reduced to ciuilitie bothe in manners and garments . Which beeing so , what vente for our English clothes will thereby ensue , and howe great benefit to all such persons & Artificers whose names are coated in the margent , I doo leaue to the iudgment of such as are discrete .

And questionles heereby it will also come to passe , Drapers . Clothiers . Cappers Hatters . &c. And many decayed townes repayred . that all such Townes and Villages , as bothe haue beene and nowe are vtterlye decayed and ruinated ( the poore people thereof beeing not sette a worke by reason of the transportation of rawe Wooll of late dayes , more excessiuely then in tymes past ) shall by this meanes be restored to theyr pristinate wealth and estate , all which doo likewise tende to the enlargement of our Nauie and mayntenaunce of our nauigation .

To what ende neede I endeuour my selfe by arguments to prooue , that by this voyage , our nauie and nauigation shall be enlarged , when as there needeth none other reason then the manifest and late example of the neere Neighbours to this Realme , the Kings of Spayne , and Portingall who since the first discouery of the Indias , haue not onelye mightily enlarged theyr dominions , greatly enritched themselues and theyr subiectes : but haue also by iust account trebbled the number of theyr Shippes , Maysters and Marriners , a matter of no small moment & importaunce .

Besides this , The ydle persons of this Realm shall by occasion of this iourney be wel employed and sette on worke . it will prooue a generall benefite vnto our Country , that through this occasion , not onely a greate number of men which doo nowe liue ydlely at home , and are burdenous , chargeable , & vnprofitable to this Realme , shall heereby be sette on worke , but also children of 12. or 14. yeeres of age or vnder , may bee kept from ydlenes , in making of a thousand kindes of trifeling thinges , which will be good Marchandize for that Country . And moreouer , our ydle women , ( which the Realme may well spare ) shal also bee imployed on plucking , drying , and sorting of Feathers , in pulling , beating , & working of Hempe , & in gathering of Cotten , & dyuers things right necessary for dying . All which thinges are to bee found in those Countries most plentifully . Hempe doth growe neere Saint Lawrence Riuer naturally . And the men may imploy themselues in draging for Pearle , working for Mynes , and in matters of husbandry , and likewise in hunting the Whale for traine , and making Caskes to put the same in : besides , in fishing for Codde , Salmon and Herring , drying , salting ▪ & barrelling the same , and felling of Trees , hewing and sawing of them , and such like woorke , meete for those persons as are no men of arte or science .

Many other thinges may be founde to the greate reliefe and good emploiemnts of no small number , of the naturall subiectes of this Realme , which doo nowe liue heere ydlelie to the common annoy of the whole state . Reade the beginning of the boke intituled , diuers voyages touching the discouery of America . Neither may I heere omitte the great hope and likely hoode of a passage by the Graunde bay , into the South Seas , confirmed by sundrie Aucthors to be founde leading to Cataia , the Moluccos and Spiceries , whereby may ensue as general a benefite to the Realme or greater , then yet hath beene spoken off , without eyther such charges , or other inconueniences , as by the tedious tract of time & perrill , which the ordinarie passage to those partes at this day doth minister . And to conclude this argument withall , it is well knowne to all men of sounde iudgement , that this voyage is of greater importaunce , and will be founde more beneficiall to our Countrey , then all other voyages at this day in vse and trade amongst vs .

The fift Chapiter sheweth , that the trading and planting in those Countries is likely to prooue , to the perticuler profit of all the Aduenturers .

I Must nowe according to my promise shew forth some probable reasons , that the aduenturers in this iourney , are to take perticuler profite by the same . It is therefore conuenient that I doo deuide the Aduenturers into two sortes : The Noble men men and Gentlemen by themselues , and the Marchaunts by themselues . For as I doo heare , it is meant that there shal be one societie of the Noble men & Gentlemen , and another society of the Marchants . And yet not so deuided , but that eache society may freely and franckly trade and traficke one with the other .

And first to bende my speeche to the Noblemen and Gentlemen , who doo cheefely seeke a temperate climate , holesome ayre , fertile soyle , and a strong place by nature , wherevpon they may fortefie , and there either plant themselues , or such other persons as they shall thinke good to sende to be Lordes of that place and Country : To them I say that all these thinges are very easye to be founde with in the degrees of 30. and 60. aforesayde , eyther by Southe or North , both in the Continent , and in Islands therevnto adioyning at theyr choyse : But the degree certaine of the cleuation of the Pole and the very Climate where these places of force and fertilitie are to be founde , I omitte to make publique , for such regarde as the wiser sort can easily coniecture : the rather because I doo certainly vnderstand , that some of those which haue the managing of this matter , knowe it as well or better then I my selfe , and doo meane to reueale the same when cause shall require , to such persons whom it shall concerne and to no other : So that they may seate & settle themselues in such Climate as shal best agree with their owne nature , disposition , & good likeing : & in the whole tract of that land , by the discription of as many as haue beene there , great plentie of minerall matter of all sortes , and in verye many places bothe stones of price , Pearle , and Christall , and great store of Beastes , Byrdes , and Fowles both for pleasure and necessarie vse of man is to be founde .

And for such as take delight in hunting , Beastes for pleasure there are Stagges , Wild Bores , Foxes , Hares , Conneys , Badgers , Otters , & diuers other such like for pleasure . Also or such as haue delight in Hawking , there are Hawkes of sundry kindes , and great store of game , both for Land and Riuer , as Feazaunts , Partridges , Cranes , Heronshawes , Duckes Mallardes , and such like . There is also a kinde of Beaste , much bigger then an Oxe , whose hyde is more then 18. foote long , of which sorte a Countriman of ours , one Walker a Sea man , who was vppon that Coast , did for a trueth reporte , in the presence of diuers honourable and worshipfull persons , that he and his company did finde in one Cottage aboue 240. Hides . which they brought away and solde in Fraunce for xl . shillinges and hyde , Hides solde for xl . shillings apece . and with this agreeth Dauid Ingram , and discribeth that beast at large , supposing it to be a certaine kinde of Buffe : there are likewise beastes and fowles of diuers kindes , which I omitte for breuities sake , great store of fish both in the salt water & in the fresh , Great Grapes . Wine of the Palm-tree . plentie of Grapes as bigge as a mans thombe , and the most delicate Wine of the Palmetree , of which wine there be diuers of good credit in this realm haue tasted : and there is also a kind of graine called Maize , Potato rootes , and sundry other fruites naturall growing there : so that after such time as they are once setled , they shall neede to take no great care for victuall .

And nowe for the better contentation & satisfaction of such worshipful , honest minded , & wel disposed Marchants , as haue a desire to the furtherance of euery good and commendable action , I wil first say vnto them , as I haue doon before to the Noble men and Gentlemen , that within the degrees aboue sayde , is doubtles to be founde , the moste holesom & best tēpature of ayre , fertillitie of soile , & euery other commoditie or marchaundize , for the which , with no smal perril we doo trauaill into Barbery , Spayne , Portingall , Fraunce , Italie , Muscouie & Dansike . All which may be either presently had , or at the least wise in verye shorte time , procured from thence with lesse danger than now we haue them . And yet to the ende my argument shall not altogether stand vppon likelihoodes and presumptions , I say that such persons as haue discouered and trauailed those partes doo testifie , that they haue founde in those Countries , all these things following , namelie .

Of Beastes for furres . Martens . Beauers . Foxes blacke and white . Leoperdes . Of Wormes . Silke worms great & large Of Byrdes . Hawkes . Bitters . Curlewes . Herons . Partridges . Cranes . Mallards . Wildgeese . Stockdoues . Margaus . Blackbirds . Parrotts . Pengwyns . Of Fishes . Codd . Salmon . Seales . Herrings . Of Trees . Palmetrees yeelding sweete wines . Cedars . Fyrres . Sasafras . Oake . Elme . Popler .

And sundry other strange Trees , to vs vnknowne .

Of Fruites . Grapes , verie large . Muskemellons . Limons . Dates great . Orrenges . Figges . Proynes . Reisons , great and small . Pepper . Almonds . Citrons . Of Mettalles . Golde . Syluer . Copper . Leade . Tinne . Of Stones . Turkeis . Rubies . Pearles , great and faire . Marble , of diuers kinds . Iasper . Christall . Sundry other commodities of all sortes . Ro●en . Pitch . Tarre . Turpentine . Frankensence Honny . Waxe . Rubarbe . Oyle Oliffe . Traine Oyle . Musk codde . Salte . Tallowe . Hydes . Hempe : Flaxe . Chuchenell● and Dies of diuers sortes . Feathers of sundry sorts , as for pleasure and filling of Featherbeddes .

And seeing that for small costes , the truth of these thinges may be vnderstoode ( wherof this intended supply wil giue vs more certaine assuraunce ) I doo find no cause to the contrarie , but that all wel minded persons should be willing to aduenture some conuenient portion , for the furtheraunce of so good an enterprise .

Now for the triall heereof , considering that in the Articles of the Societie of the aduenturers in this voiage , there is prouision made , that no aduenturer shal be bound to any further charge then his first aduenture : and yet notwithstanding keepe styl to himselfe , his children , his apprentises and seruants , his and their freedome for trade & traficke which is a priuiledge that Aduenturers in other voiages haue not : and in the saide articles it is likewise prouided , that none other then such as haue aduentured in the first voiage , or shall become aduenturers in this supply , at any time heerafter are to be admitted in the said society , but as Redemptionaries , which wil be very chargeable : Therefore generally I say vnto all such according to the old Prouerb , Nothing venture , Nothing haue . For if it do so fal out , according to the great hope & expectation had ( as by Gods grace it wil ) the gaine which now they reape by traffique into other farre Countries , shall by this trade returne with lesse charge , greater gaine , and more safety : Lesse charge I say , by reason of the ample and large deepe Riuers at the verie banke , wherof there is many , wherby both easily and quietly they may transport from the innermost partes of the maine land , all kind of merchandize , yea , in Vessels of great burden , & that three times , or twise in the yeere at the least . But let vs omit all presumptions how vehement soeuer , & dwel vpon the certainty of such commodities as were discouered and found by Sir Humfrey Gilbert , Commo●●ties found in August last . and his assistants in Newfound land , in August last . For there may be very easily made , Pitch , Tarre , Rosen , So●e ashes , in great plenty , yea , as it is thought inough to serue the whole Realme of euery of these kindes . And of Traine Oyle such quantity , as if I should set downe the value that they doo esteeme it at , which haue been there , it would seeme incredible .

It is heerby intended , that these commodities in this aboundaunt manner , are not to be gathered from thence , without Planting and setling there . And as for other thinges of more value , and that of more sortes and kinds then one or two , ( which were likewise discouered there ) I doo hold it for some respects , more meet for a time to be concealed and vttered .

Of the Fishing I doo speake nothing , because it is generally known : And it is not to be forgotten , what very trifles they be that the Sauages doo require in exchaunge of these commodities : yea for Pearle , Gold , Siluer , and precious stones . All which are matters in trade and trasfique of great moment . But admit that it shold so fal out , that the aboue specified commodities , shall not happely be found out within this first yeere . Yet it is very cleere that such & so many may be found out as shall minister iust occasion to thinke al cost & labor well bestowed . For it is very certaine , that there is one seate fit for fortification , of great safety , wherin these commodities following , especially are to be had , that is to say , Grapes for wine , Whales for oyle , Hempe for cordage and other necessary thinges , and Fish of farre greater sise and plenty , then that of Newfound land , and of all these so great store as may suffise to serue our whole Realme .

Besydes all this if credite , may be giuen to the Inhabitaunts of the same Soyle , a certaine Riuer dooth therevnto adioyne , which leadeth to a place abounding with ritch substaunce : I doo not heereby meane the passadge to the M●luch●s , whereof before I made mencion .

And it is not to be omitted , howe that about two yeeres past , certaine Marchaunts of S. Mallowes in Fraunce , dyd hire a Shippe out of the Island of Iersey , to the ende that they would keepe that trade secrete from theyr Countreimen , and they would admit no Mariner other then the Ship boy belonging to the sayd Shippe to goe with them ▪ which Ship was about 70. Tunne . I doo knowe the Ship and the boy very well , and am familiarly acquainted with the Owner , which voyage prooued very beneficiall .

To conclude , this which is already saide , may suffice any man of reasonable disposition to serue for a taste , vntyll such tyme as it shall please almightie God through our owne industrie , to send vs better tydings . In the meane season , if any man well affected to this iourney , shal stand in doubt of any matter of importance touching the same , he may satisfie himselfe with the iudgement and lyking of those of good calling and credite , as are principall dealers heerein . For it is not necessary in this treatise , publickly to sette foorth the whole secretes of the voyage .

¶ The sixt Chapter , sheweth that the Traffique and Planting in those Countries , shall be vnto the Sauages themselues verie beneficiall and gainefull .

NOw to the end it may appeare , that this voiage is not vndertaken altogether for the peculiar commoditie of our selues , and our Countrie , ( as generallie other trades and iourneies be ) it shall fall out in proofe , that the Sauages shal heerby haue iust cause to blesse the howre , when this enterprise was vndertaken .

First and cheefly , in respect of the most happy and gladsome tydings of the most glorious Gospel of our Sauiour Iesus Christ , whereby they may be brought from falsehood to truth , from darknes to lyght , from the hieway of death , to the path of life , from superstitious idolatry , to sincere christianity , from the deuill to Christ , from hell to Heauen . And if in respect of all the commodities they can yeeld vs ( were they many moe ) that they should but receyue this only benefite of christianity , they were more then fully recompenced .

But heervnto it may be obiected , that the Gospel must be freely preached , for such was the example of the Apostles , vnto whom although the aucthorities and examples before alledged , of Emperors , Kings , and Princes , as wel before Christes time as since , might sufficiently satisfie : Yet for further aunswer , we may say with Saint Paule . If we we haue sowen vnto you heauenlie thinges , 2. Cor. 9. doo you thinke it much that we should reape your carnall thinges ? And withall , The workman is worthy of his hier . These heauenly tydings which those labourers our countrey men ( as messengers of Gods great goodnes and mercy ) wyl voluntarily present vnto them , dooth farre exceed their earthly ritches . Moreouer , if the other inferior worldlie , and temporall thinges , which they shal receiue from vs , be waied in equal balance , I assure my selfe , that by equall iudgement of any indifferent person , the benefites which they then receiue , shall far surmount those which they shall depart withall vnto vs . And admitte that they had ( as they haue not ) the knowledge to put theyr land to some vse : Yet being brought from brutish ignoraunce , to ciuility and knowledge , and made them to vnderstand how the tenth part of their land may be so manured and emploied , as it may yeeld more commodities to the necessary vse of mans life , then the whole now dooth : What iust cause of complaint may they haue ? And in my priuate opinion , I doo verily think that God did create lande , to the end that it shold by Culture and husbandrie , yeeld things necessary for mans lyfe .

But this is not all the benefit which they shall receiue by the christians , for , ouer & beside the knowledge how to tyl and dresse their grounds , they shal be reduced from vnseemly customes , to honest maners , from disordred riotous rowtes and companies , to a wel gouerned common wealth & with all shal be taught mecanicall occupations , artes , and lyberal Sciences : and which standeth them most vpon , they shal be defended from the cruelty of their tyrannicall & blood sucking neighbors , The bargaine can not be vniust , where both parties are gainers . the Canniballes , wherby infinite number of their liues shal be preserued . And lastly ; by this meanes many of their poore innocent children shal be preserued from the bloody knife of the sacrificer , a most horrible and detestable custome in the sight of God & man , now and euer heertofore vsed amongst them . Many other thinges could I heere alledge to this purpose , were it not that I doo feare least I haue already more then halfe tired the Reader .

The seauenth Chapter sheweth that the Planting there , is not a matter of such charge or diffycultie , as many would make it seeme to be .

NOw therefore for proofe , that the Planting in these parts is a thing that may be doone without the aide of the Princes power and purse , contrarye to the allegation of many malicious persons , who will neither be actors in any good action themselues , nor so much as afoord a good word to the setting forward therof : and that wurse , is they wyl take vpon them to make Molehylles seeme Mountaines , and flies Elephants , to the end they may discourage others , that be verye well or indifferently affected to the matter , being like vnto Esoppes Dogge which neither would eate haie himself , nor suffer the poore hungry asse to feede thereon .

I say & affirme that God hath prouided such meanes for the furtheraunce of this enterprise , as doth stande vs in steede of great treasure : for first by reason that it hath pleased God of his great goodnesse , of long time to holde his merciful hand ouer this Realme , in preseruing the people of the same , both from flaughter by the sword , & great deathby plague , pestilence , or otherwise , there is at this day great numbers ( God he knoweth ) which liue in such penurie & want , as they could be contented to hazarde their liues , and to serue one yeere for meate , drinke , and apparel , onely without wages , in hope thereby to amend theyr estates : which is a matter in such lyke iourneis , of no small charge to the Prince . Moreouer , thinges in the lyke iourneis of greatest price and cost , as victual ( whereof there is great plenty to bee had in that countrye without money ) and powder , great artillery , or Corselets , are not needful , in so plentiful and chargeable manner , as the shew of such a iourney , may present , for a smal quantity of all these to furnish the Forte onely wyl suffice , vntyl such time as diuers commodities may be found out in those parts , which may be thought wel woorthy a greater charge . Also the peculiar benefite of Archers which God hath blessed this land withal , before al other nations , will stand vs in great stede amongst those naked people .

Another helpe we haue also , which in such lyke cases is a matter of meruailous cost , and wil be in this iourney procured very easily ( that is to say ) To transport yeerely as wel our people , as al other necessaries , needful for than into those parts by the Fleete of Merchaunts , that yeerely venture for Fish in Newfound Land , being not farre distaunt from the countrey , meant to be inhabited , who commonly go with empty Vesselles in effect , sauing some lyttle fraught with Salt . And thus it appeareth that the Souldiers wages , and the transportation may be defrayed for farre lesse summes of money , then the detractors of this enterprise haue giuen out . Againe , this intended voiage for conquest , hath in lyke manner many other singular priuiledges , wherewith God hath as it were , with his holy hand blessed the same before all others . For after once we are departed the coast of England , we may passe straight way thether , without daunger of being driuen into any the countries of our enimies , or doubtfull freends , for commonly one winde serueth to bring vs thether , which sildome faileth from the middle of Ianuarie , to the middle of Maie , a benefite which the Mariners make great account off , for it is a pleasure that they haue in few or none of the other iournies . Also , the passadge is short , for we may go thither in thirty or forty daies at the most , hauing but an indifferent winde , and returne continually in sixteene or twenty dayes at the most . And in the same our iourney , by reason it is in the Occean , and quite out of the way from the intercourse of other countries : we may safely trade and traffique , without perill of pyracie , neither shal our Ships , people , or goods , ther be subiecte to the arrest or molestation of any Pagan Potentate , Turkishe Tyrant , yea , or christian Prince , which heertofore , sometimes vpon slender occasion in other parts , haue staied our Shippes and marchaundizes , whereby great numbers of our Countrimen haue beene vtterly vndoone , dyuers put to raunsome , yea and some lost their liues : a thing so fresh in memory as it needeth no proofe , and well worthy of consideration .

Besides , in this voyage , we doo not crosse the burnt line , whereby commonly both beuerage and victuall are corrupted , and mens health very much impaired , neither doo we passe the frozen Seas , which yeelde sundrye extreme daungers : but haue a temperate Climate at all times of the yeere , to serue our turnes . And lastly , there neede no delaies by the way , for taking in of freshwater and Fewell , ( a thing vsually doone in long iourneys ) because as I said aboue , the voyage is not long , and the fresh waters taken in there , our men heere in England , at theyr returne home , haue found so holesome and sweete , that they haue made choise to drinke it before our ▪ Beere or Ale .

Beholde heere good Countreimen , the manifolde benefites , commodities and pleasures heeretofore vnknowne , by Gods especiall blessing not onelie reuealed vnto vs , but also as it were infused into our bosomes , who though hetherto like Dormise haue slumbered in ignoraunce thereof , beeing like the Cattes that are lothe for theyr praye to wette their feete , yet if now therefore , at the last we would awake , and with willing mindes ( setting friuolous imaginations aside ) become industrious instruments to our selues , Questionles we shoulde not onely heereby set foorth the glorie of our heauenlie Father , but also easily attaine to the ende of all good purposes , that may be wished or desired .

And may it not much encourage vs to hope for good successe in the countrey of these Sauages , beeing a naked kinde of people , voyde of the knowledge of the discipline of warre , seeing that a Noble man , beeing but a subiecte in this Realme , ( in the time of our King Henrie the second ) by name Strangbowe , them Earle of Chepstowe in South Wales , by himselfe and his Alleis and assistaunts , at their owne proper charges , passed ouer into Ireland , and there made conquest of the nowe Countrey , and then kingdom of Ly●●ster , at which time it was verie populous & strong ; which historie , our owne Chronicles doo witnes . And why should we be dismaide , more then were the Spaniardes , who haue beene able within these fewe yeeres , to conquer , possesse and enioy ; so large a tracte at the earth , in the west - Indies , as is betweene the two Tropicks of Cancer and Capricorne , not onely in the maine firme lande of America ▪ which is 47. degrees in latitude from South to North , & doth contain 2820. English miles at the least , that the King of Spayne hath there , in actual possession besides many goodly & rich Islands , as Hispaniola , now called Sa. Domingo , Cuba , Iamica , and diuers other , which are bothe beautifull and full of treasure , not speaking anie whitt at all , how large the saide Lande is from East to West , which in some places is accounted to be 1500. English miles at the least , from East to West , betweene the one Sea and the other .

Or why should our Noble nation be dismaide , more then was Vasques Numes de Balboa , 2. D●cad . lib. 5. fo. 77. of the West Indes , in English Cano●s is a kinde of boate . 3. Decad. lib. 1. fol. ●7 . a priuate Gentleman of Spayne , who with the number of 70. Spaniardes at Tich●ri , gaue an ouerthrow vnto that mightie King Chemacchus , hauing an Armie of an hundred Canoas & 5000. men , and the say de Vasques Numes not long after , with his small number , did put to flight King Chiapes his whole Armie .

Likewise Hernando Cortese , beeing also but a priuate Gentleman of Spayne , About the yeere of our Lord 1511. after his departure from the Islands of Cuba and Acusamill , and entring into the firme of America , had many most victorious & triumphant conquests , as that at Cyntla , where beeing accompanied with lesse than 500. Spanish footemen , Conquest of the West Indes fol. 43 and 45. in English . thirteene Horsemen , and sixe peeces of Ordenaunce onely he ouerthrewe 40000 Indians The same Cortese with his sayde number of Spaniardes , tooke prisoner that mightie Emperour Meter●ma in his most cheefe and famous Cittie of Mexico , which at that instant had in it aboue the number of 500000 ▪ Indians at the least , and in short time after , obteyned not onelie the quiet possession of the saide Cittie , But also of his whole Empire .

And in like manner in the Country of Peru , which the King of Spayne hath nowe in actual possession , Francisco Pysare , with the onelie ayde of Diego de Almagro , and Hernando Luche , beeing all three but priuate Gentlemen was the principall person that first attempted the discouerie and conquest of the large and rich Countrye of Peru , which through the ayde of the almighty , he brought to passe and atchiued , in the Tambo of Cassiamalcha , ( which is a large place of ground , enclosed with walles ) in which place he tooke the great and mightye Prince Attabalipa prisoner , A meruelous victorie . amidest the number of 60000 Indians his subiectes , which were euer before that day accounted to bee a warlike kinde of people , which his great victory it pleased God to graunt vnto him in the yeere of our Lorde 1533. he not hauing in his company aboue the number of 210. Spaniardes , whereof there was not past 60 , horsemen in all : After the taking of which Prince , Attabalipa , he offered vnto Pyzare for his raunsome , to fill a great large Hall ful of Golde and Siluer , and such Gold and Siluer vessels as they then vsed , euen as hie as a man might reache with his arme . And the sayd Prince caused the same Hall to bee marked rounde about at the sayde height , which raunsome Pyzara graunted to accept . And after when as thys mightie Prince had sent to his vassals & subiects to bring in Golde and Siluer for the filling of the Hal , as aforesaid , as namelie to the Citties or Townes of Quito , Pacyacama and Cusco , as also to the Caloa of Lyma , in which Towne , as their owne writers doo affyrme , they founde a large and fayre house , all s●ated and couered with ●olde : and when as the said Hal was not yet a quarter full , a mutenye arose amongst the Spaniardes , in which it was commonly giuen out , that the said Prince had politiquely offered this great raunsome vnder pretence to rayse a much more mightie power , whereby the Spaniardes should bee taken slayne , and ouerthrowne : wherevppon they grewe to this resolution , to put the sayd Prince to death , and to make particion of the gold and siluer already brought in , which they presently put in execution . And comming to make perfect Inuentory of the same , as well for the Emperor then King of Spayne , his fift parte as otherwise there was founde to be already brought in into the sayde Hall , the number of 132425. pounde weight of siluer , and in golde the number of 1828125. pezos , A pezo is worth vii . s. vi . d. English . which was a ritches neuer before that nor since seene of any man together , of which there did appertaine to the Emperor for his fyft parte of Golde 365625. pezos , & for his fift parte of siluer 26485. pound weight , & to euery Horseman 8000. pezos of gold , and 67 , pounde weight of siluer . Euery Soldier had 4550. pezos of golde , and 280. pounde weight of siluer . Enety Captain had , some 30000. some , 20000. pezos of golde and of siluer , propottionally aunswerable to theyr degrees and calling , according to the rate agreed vpon amongst them . Se the History of the West Indies in French ; the xiii . booke . fol. 138. some part whereof is translated into English . Fraunces Pizare as their General , according to his degree and calling proportionally , had more then any of the rest , ouer and besides the Massie table of gold , which Attahalipa had in his Lyttier , which wayed , 25000. pezos of Golde : neuer was there before that day , Soldiers so riche in so small a time , and with so little danger . And in this iourney for want of Iron , they did shoe theyr Horsses some with Gold , and some with siluer . This is to be seene in the generall . Historye of the west Indies , whereas the dooings of Pizare , and the conquest of the Peru is more at large set foorth .

To this may I adde the great discoueries & conquestes , which the Princes of Portingall haue made rounde about the West , the South , and the East partes of Africa , and also at Calicute and in the East Indies , and in America , at Brasilia and elswhere , in sundry Islandes in fortefying , peopling , and planting all along the sayd Coastes , & Islandes , euer as they discouered , which beeing rightly wayed and considered , dooth minister iust cause of incouragement to our country men , not to account it so harde and difficult a thing for the subiectes of this noble Realme of Englande , to discouer people plant and possesse the like goodly lands and rich Countries not farre from vs , but neere adioyning and offering it selfe vnto vs ( as is aforesayde ) which haue neuer yet heeretofore , beene in the actuall possession of any other Christian Prince , then the Princes of this realm All which , ( as I thinke ) shoulde not a little animate and encourage vs , to looke out and to aduenture abroade , vnderstanding what large Countries and Islandes the Portingals with theyr small number haue within these fewe yeeres discouered , peopled , and planted , some part wherof I haue thought it not amisse , breefely in perticuler to name , bothe the Townes , Countries , and Islandes , so neere as I coulde vppon the suddaine call them to remembraunce , for the rest I doo referre this Reader to the Histories , where more at large the same is to be seene . Fyrste they did winne and conquere from the Princes of Barbary the Island of Geysera & towne of Arzilla , not past 140 myle distaunt from their Metrapolitane and cheefe Cittie of Fesse : and after that they wunne also from the sayde Princes the Townes of Tangier , Seuta , Mazigam Azamore and Azaffie , all alongst the Sea Coastes . And in the yeere of our Lorde 1455. Alouis de Cademost● a gentleman Venetian , was he that first discouered for theyr vse Cape Verd , with the Islandes adioyning , of which hee then peopled and planted those of Bonanista and Santiago discouering also the Riuer Senega , otherwise called Niger and Cape Rouge and Sere Leone , and in a fewe yeeres after they did discouer the Coast of Ginea , and there peopled & built the Castell of Myne : then discouered they further , to the countreys of Melegettes , Benyn , and Manicongo , with the Islandes of Principe , Anobon , Saint Mathew , and S. Thomas , vnder the Equynoctial lyne , which they peopled and built in the sayd Island of S. Thomas , the Hauen Towne or Port of Pauosan . After that , about the yeere of our Lorde 1494. one Bartholomew Dias was sent foorth , who was the first man that discouered and dobled that great and large Cape called Bon , Esperance , and passing the Curraunts that runne vppon the sayd coast , on the Southest parte of Affrica , betweene the sayde maine Land and the Island of S. Lawrence , otherwise called of the auncients , Madagascar , he discouered to the harbor named the Riuer of Infants . After that since the yeere of our Lorde God 1497. and before the full accomplishment of the yeere of Christ 1510 through the trauails and discoueries of Vasques de Game , Peeter Aluares , Thomas Lopes , Andrew Corsale , Iohn de Empolie , Peeter Sinter , Sancho Detoar , Ceffala is accounted to be the place where the Noble and wise King Salomon did fetch his golde . and that noble and woorthy Gentleman Alonso de Alburqueque , they did discouer people , and plant at Ceffala , beeing vpon the East side of Affrica , in 20. degrees of latitude of the South pole , and direct West from the Islande of S. Lawrence , ( at which Port of Ceffala , diuers doo afirme that King Salomon did fetch his golde ) As also vpon the sayd East side of Affrica , they did afterwarde discouer people , and plant at M●nzanbique , Quil●● Monbaz● and Melinde 2. degrees of sotherly latitude , and so vppe to the streight of Bubell , Mandell at the entring of the Redde sea , all vppon the East coast , of Affrica , from whence they put off at the Cape of Garda Funi , and past the great gulfe of Arabia , or Indian Sea East to Sinus Persicus , and the Island of Ormus , and so passing the large and great Riuer Indus , where he hath his fall into the mayne Occean , in 23. degrees & di . vnder the tropick of Cancer , of Septentrionall latitude , they made theyr course againe directly towards the South , and began to discouer people and plant vpon the west side of the hether India at Goa , Mangallor , Canan●r , Calecute , and Chochyn , and the Island of Zeylam .

And heere I thinke good to remember to you , that after theyr planting vpon this coaste , their forces grewe so great , that they were able to compell all the Mores , the subiectes of the mighty Emperor of the Turks to pay tribute vnto them , euer as they passed the Gulfe of Arabia , from the porte of Mecca in Arabia filice , where Mahomet lyeth buried , or any of the other portes of the sayd Land , euer as they passed to and from the Hauens of Cochyn , Calecute , and Cananor , and by theyr martiall manner of discipline , practised in those partes , the great and mightye Prince the Sophie Emperor of the Persians , & professed enemie to the Turck , came to the knowledge and vse of the Caliuer shotte , and to enterlace and ioine footemen with his Horsemen , sithence which time the Persians , haue growen to that strength and force , that they haue giuen many mighty and great ouerthrowes to the Turke , to the great quiet of all Christendome .

And from the Island of Zeylam aforesayde , they also discouered more East , in passing the Gulfe of Bengala , and so passed the notable and famous Riuer of Ganges , where he hath his fall into the maine Occean , vnder the tropicke of Cancer , and to the Cape of Malaca , and vnto the great & large Islands of Sumatro , These are the furthest parts of the world from Englande . At these Islands hath Sir Fraunces Drake beene , wher the fame of the Qu. most excellent Maiestie was renowmed . Iaua maior , Iaua minor , Mindano , Palobane , Celebes , Gilolo , Tydore , Mathin , Borneio , Machian , Terranette , and all other the Islandes of Molucques and Spiceries , and so East , alongst the coasts of Cataia , to the Ports of China , Zayton , and Quinsay , and to the Islandes of Zipango , and Iapan , situate in the East , in 37. degrees of septentrionall latitude and in 195. of longitude . Their noble and woorthy discoueries heere also is not to be forgotten , that in the yeere of our Lorde 1501. that famous and woorthy gentleman Americus Vespusue , did discouer people and plant to theyr vse the Holdes and fortes which they haue in Brasillia ▪ of whom ( hee beeing but a priuate Gentleman , the whole Country or firme Land of the West Indies , is commonly called and knowne by the name of America .

I do greatlie doubt least I seeme ouertedious in the recitall of the perticuler discoueries and conquestes of the East and west Indies , wherein I was the more bolde to vrge the patience of the Reader , to the ende it might most manifestly and at large appeare , to all such as are not acquainted with the Histories , howe the King of Portingall , whose Country for popularity and number of people , is scarce comparable to some three shires of Englande . And the King of Spayne likewise , whose naturall Countrey dooth not greatly abounde with people Both which Princes by meanes of theyr discoueries , within lesse then 90. yeeres past , haue as it appeareth , both mightely and meruailouslie enlarged theyr territories & dominions through theyr owne industrie , by the assistance of the omnipotent , whose ayde we shall not neede to doubt , seeing the cause & quarrell which we take in hand tendeth to his honour and glory , by the enlargement of the Christian fayth .

To conclude , since by christian duety we stand bounde cheefely to further all such acts as doo tende to the encreasing the true flocke of Christ , by reducing into the right way those loste sheepe which are yet astray . And that wee shall therein followe the example of our right vertuous predicessors of renowmed memory , and leaue vnto our posteritie , a deuice memoriall of so godly an enterprise . Let vs I say for the considerations alledged , enter into iudgement with our selues , whether this action may belong to vs or no. The rather for that this voyage through the mighty assistaunce of the omnipotent God , shal take our desired effect ( whereof there is no iust cause of doubt ) Then shall her Maiesties dominions be enlarged , her highnes auncient titles iustly confyrmed , all odious ydlenes from this our Realme vtterly banished . Diuers decayed Townes repay red , and many poore and needy persons relieued , and estates of such as nowe liue in want shal be embettered . The ignorant & barbarous Idolaters taught to knowe Christ . The innocent defended from their bloodie tyrannicall neighbours . The diabolicall custome of sacrifycing humaine Creatures abolished .

All which ( no man doubteth ) are thinges gratefull in the sight of our Sauiour , and tending to the honour and glory of the Trinitie : Be of good cheere therefore , for he that can not erre hath sayd : That before the ende of the world , his word shall bee preached to all nations . Which good worke , I trust is reserued for our Nation to accomplish in these partes : Wherefore my deere Countrimen , be not dismayed , for the power of God is nothing diminished , nor the loue that he hath to the preaching and planting of the Gospell any whirt abated . Shall we then doubt he will be lesse ready , most mightily and miraculously to assist our Nation in this quarrel , which is cheefely and principally vndertaken for the enlargement of the christian fayth abroade , and the banishment of ydlenes at home , then he was to Columnus , Vasques Numes , Hernand● Cortese , and Fraunces Pyzare in the west : and Vasques de Game , Peter Aluares , & Alonso de Alburqueque in the East .

Let vs therefore with cheerefull mindes and couragious hearts , giue the attempt , and leaue the sequell to almightye God , for if he be on our part , what forceth it who be against vs . Thus leauing the correction & reformation vnto the gentle Reader , whatsoeuer is in this Treatise too much or too little , or otherwise vnperfect , I take leaue and so ende .

FINIS .

❧ The Contentes of the Articles of Assuraunce , betweene the Principall assignes of Sir Humfrey Gilbert Knight , and the foure sortes of aduenturers , with them in the veyage for the Westerne Discoueries . Assocyates . which be such as aduenture . C. l. Assystants . which be such as aduenture . L. l. Aduenturers in the first degree . which be such as aduenture . XX. v. l . Aduenturers in the second degree . which be such as aduenture . Xii . l. x. s.

EVery person which hath aduentured in money or commodities with Sir Humfrey Gilbert Knight , The ratification of former Aduenturers . or with any principall assigne from him , shal haue and enioy all such Lands , Liberties , Freedomes , Priueleges and commodities as to any of them hath beene graunted or couenaunted by the said Sir Humfrey , or by any principall assigne , in writing to bee shewed vnder his or theyr handes and seales . So as he hath or shall deliuer in all his aduenture before the last day of December next .

And euery person which hath aduentured himselfe in the last voyage , Rewards to such as haue aduentured in person in the last voyage Associates . & continued in the same , vntil such time as the admirall of the sayd voyage was lost , and will aduenture himselfe in this next voyage , shall in recompence haue his rate doubled .

EVerie person , that shall aduenture in this next voyage , in money or commodityes , the some of one hundreth poundes and receyued by the treasurer , agent or other person authorised to bee kept in a Store-house , prouided for that purpose : shal beare the name of an associate , he , his heires , and fower of his seruaunts seruing him seuen yeeres , to haue free libertie to trade and trafique in the said Countries . And shall haue a iust portion accordyng to the quantity of his aduenture , of al commodities gotten & retourned into England , by any the Vessels which shall be set forth by the sayde principall assigne , before the twenteth of March next , in Anno 1583.

He shall haue to him and his heyres for euer , sixteene thousand acres of Land , there to bee peopled and manured at his pleasure , holding the same in socage tenner by Fealtie onely , with aucthoritie to keepe Court Leete , and Court Barron vppon the same , at his pleasure , with as great roialties in as large & ample maner as any Associate there , or other Subiect in this Realme now enioyeth any landes in England .

Hee to bee chosen for one of the cheefest persons for making of Lawes there . And shall be free from all arrestes , tortures , and execution by Marshall Lawe .

Yeelding and paying yeerely , tenne shillinges for euerye thousand acres after the same shall bee possessed and occupyed one whole yeere and to the Queenes maiestie the fift part of Golde and Syluer Ower , which shall bee cleerely gotten , one other fift part of Golde , Syluer , Ower , Pearle and Precious stones , to Sir Humfrey Gylbert and his heires , and to the principall assigne the like fift part . & also one fift part of Christall to the said principal assigne to be found and clearely gotten vpon the same sixteene thousand acres .

There shal be leuied within three yeeres after the sayd Land shal be inhabited , for euery acre manured on halfepeny yeerely for the building of Fortes , Townes , Churches Shippes , maintenaunce of learning and Soldiers , and releeuing of maimed persons &c. to bee bestowed and imploied at the discretion of the principall ▪ Assigne and his heyres , the Lieftenaunt and Associate , there for the time beeing .

EVery parson aduenturing as aforesaid the some of fifty poundes , Assistants shall beare the name of an Assistant , he , and his heires males , and three of his seruaunts , seruing him seuen yeeres to haue free liberty to trade , as in the first Article of Associates .

He shal haue to him his heires for euer eight thousand acres of Lande , to bee peopled and manured as aforesaid , holding the same as aforesaid , with free libertie to keepe court Leete & court Baron , at his pleasure , and to take the commodities therevnto belonging .

Yeelding & paying as in the fourth Article of the Associates .

To beleuied one halfepeney yeerely for euery acre , as in the fift Article of the Associates .

EVery person aduenturing as aforesaid : Aduenturers in the first degree . the some of xxv . pound shall be an aduenturer of the first degree he , and his heires males , and two of his seruants seruing him seauen yeeres , to be free of trade , &c. as in the first Article of the Associates .

Hee shall haue to him and his heires for euer , foure thousand acres of Land , to bee peopled and manured as aforesaid , holding the same as aforesaid , with free liberty to keepe Court Barron at his pleasure , & to take the commodities therevnto belonging .

Yeelding and paying as aforesaid , and ouer and aboue to the principall assigne the tenth part of Copper .

To be leuied one halfepeny yeerely as aforesaid .

EVery person aduenturing , as aforesaid the some of xii . pound x. shillinges , Aduenturers in the second degree . shal be an aduenturer of the second degree , hee and his heires males and one of his seruauntes seruinge him seuen yeeres , to be free of trade , &c. as in the first article of the associates .

He shall haue to him and his heires for euer two thousand acres of land , to bee peopled and manured as aforesaid , holding the same as aforesaid .

Yeelding and paying as aforesaid , in the third article of the aduenturers of the first degree .

To be leuied one halfepeny yeerelie as aforesaid .

The generall and admirall in this voyage , Generall . shall haue in all thinges as an associate , with double quantity of Land , the Leiftenaunt and Viceadmirall in quantity of Land as an associate , and in priuiledges as an assistant .

Euery Captaine , Captains and Maisters . and Maister of a ship in the said voyage , shall haue as an assistant .

EVery Ma. his mate , Ma. Carpenter and Ma. Gunner , and quarter Ma shall haue in Land as an assistant , & in priuiledges as an aduenturer of the first degree .

EVery skilfull man in trying of minerall matters , and euery apoticarie sk●lfull in choise of drugges , shall haue in Land as an assistant , and in priuiledges as an aduenturer of the first degree .

EVery Gunners and Carpenters mates , Steward , Surgion , Boteswane , Purser , Trumpeter and other Officer and necessarie artificer , hauing their necessary instumentes and tooles , shall haue according to the rate of Landes as an aduenturer of the first degree , and in preuiledges as an aduenturer of the the second dgree .

Euery Soldiour and Mariner shall haue in all thinges as an aduenturer of the second degree . Soldiours

EVery Person that shall winter and remaine in those Countries , one whole yeere shall haue double the quantity of Land , as by this rate hee ought to haue , if hee did not stay one yeere as aforesaid .

These rewardes to be extended to those persons only , which shall trauell in the sayd voyage for , their thirds or shares vppon their owne aduentures without wages and not to any others .

EVery person , who shal be willing to aduenture in commodites , as aforesaid vnder the some of xii . pound x. shillinges shall haue freedome of trad , land and liberties rated , according to the proporcion of his aduenture

FVery person which hath , or shall aduenture in this voyage in money or commodities as aforesaid , and will also aduenture his person in this next voyage shall haue in respect of his person according to the ra● aforesaid , ouer and aboue his aduenture .