THE DEDICATION

As I am at a loss what complaints Mr. Colebrooke may make, I entreat your Lordships will please to allow me to refer you to my son who will have the honour to wait on your Lordships with this, and is instructed to give you such particular information, as you may desire to be apprised of, either with regard to Mr. Colebrooke, or anything else relating to this colony. I have also transmitted herewith transcripts of the Council and Assembly proceedings, and answers to your Lordships’ queries, together with an account of every family[82]on this island in as particular a manner as possible.... I hope soon to visit Columba alias Cat Island,[83]which being esteemed the most fertile of any in this government, I shall transmit to your Lordships a particular account thereof.

This was his last official despatch of any importance, and his death is recorded at Nassau on the 15th of July, 1732. His will, drawn up on the eve of departure from England, and dated 26th of May, 1729, was proved in London on the 24th of November, 1732. In it he bequeaths his property to his son William Whetstone Rogers,[84]and his daughter Sarah Rogers. The probate act describes him “aslate of the parish of St. Margaret, Westminster, but dying at the Bahama Islands, a widower.”

And so, amid the tropical grandeur of his island home, with the surge of the broad Atlantic for his requiem, passed all that was mortal of Woodes Rogers. No tombstone stands to mark his last resting-place, but somewhere in Nassau we may be sure that his spirit looks out past the great statue of Columbus standing sentinel over Government House, to the shipping and harbour beyond. One wonders how many of the thousands of visitors who bask in the perpetual sunshine of a winter’s day in this “Queen of Coral Isles,” realise how much they owe to Woodes Rogers and his successors. A great seaman and splendid patriot he deserves well of his country. May this reprint of his “Cruising Voyage” be a fitting tribute to his memory!

This edition of Woodes Rogers’s “Cruising Voyage round the World,” is printed from the original and scarce edition of 1712. In the Introduction, I have attempted to tell the full story of the author’s life from the original documents in the Public Record Office and the British Museum. For the facilities offered me at both these institutions, and also at the London Library, I beg to tender my sincere thanks. I have also to acknowledge my indebtedness to Mr. A. G. H. Macpherson for his kindness in allowing me to reproduce three illustrations from his unique collection of Naval prints, and to the authorities at the National Portrait Gallery for their courtesy in granting me permission to reproduce the beautiful portrait of Captain William Dampier. Finally I have to thank Dr. Philip Gosse, whose enthusiasm for Woodes Rogers spurred me to complete this edition of one of the most interesting voyages in the English language.

G. E. MANWARING.

To the Worthy Gentlemen my surviving Owners, the WorshipfulChristopher ShuterEsq.,SirJohn HawkinsKt., John RomseyEsq.;Capt.Philip Freake,Mr.James Hollidge, Francis Rogers, Thomas Goldney, Thomas Clements, Thomas Coutes, John Corsely, John Duckinfield, Richard Hawksworth, William Saunders, John Grant, Laurence Hollister,andDaniel Hickman,Merchants inBristol.

Gentlemen,

AS you did me the Honour to approve my Proposals for the following Voyage, and generously fitted out two Ships, in which you gave me the principal Command; I no sooner resolv’d to publish my Journal, than I determin’d to chuse you for my Patrons: and thereby to take an opportunity of expressing my Gratitude to you, who had the Courage to adventure your Estates on an Undertaking, which to Men less discerning seem’d impracticable.

I heartily congratulate you on the Success and Profit of this Long and Hazardous Voyage; which might have been greater, but the following Sheets will show it was not my fault.

I shall only add on this Head, that I used my utmost Endeavours to promote your Interest, which was always prefer’d to my own.

I make no doubt, it will be to your lasting Honour, that such a Voyage was undertaken fromBristolat your Expence; since it has given the Publick a sufficient Evidence of what may be done in those Parts, and since the Wisdom of the Nation has now agreed to establish a Trade to theSouth-Seas,which, with the Blessing of God, may bring vast Riches toGreat Britain.

I wish you intire Health and Happiness, and am,

Gentlemen,Your most Humble Servant,WOODES ROGERS.

By CaptainWoodes Rogers,Commander in Chief.

THO others, who give an Account of their Voyages, do generally attempt to imitate the Stile and Method which is us’d by Authors that write ashore, I rather chuse to keep to the Language of the Sea, which is more genuine, and natural for a Mariner. And because Voyages of this sort have commonly miscarry’d, ’tis necessary that I should keep to my Original Journal; that the Methods we took to succeed in our Designs, may appear from time to time in their native Light: Therefore without any disguise I shall publish the Copies of all our material Regulations and Agreements, and keep to the usual Method of Sea-Journals, omitting nothing that happen’d remarkable to our selves, or that may serve for Information or Improvement to others in thelike Cases. Every day’s Transactions begin at the foregoing Day about twelve a clock, and end at the same Hour the following Day carrying that Date.

Since Custom has likewise prevail’d for Sailors to give an Account of such Countries upon whose Coasts they touch or pass by, I shall so far comply with it as to give a Description of those that occur’d in the Course of my Navigation, especially of such as are or may be of most use for enlarging our Trade; wherein I have consulted the best Authors upon the Subject, and the Manuscript Journals of others, as well as inform’d my self by Inquiry upon the Spot, and from those that have been in the respective Countries I treat of.

1708. August 2.Yesterday about four in the Afternoon we weigh’d fromKingroadnearBristol, on board theDukefrigate, whereof Capt.Woodes Rogerswas Commander, in Consortship with theDutchess, Capt.Stephen CourtneyCommander; both private Men of War, bound toCorkinIreland, and thence to the Southward a cruising; theDukeBurden about 320 Tuns, having 30 Guns and 117 Men; and theDutchessBurden about 260 Tuns by Measure, 26 Guns and 108 Men; both well furnish’d with all Necessaries on board for a distant Undertaking.

We had in Company theScipio,Peterboroughfrigate,Prince Eugene,BristolGalley,BerkelyGalley,BeecherGalley,PompeyGalley,SherstoneGalley, andDiamondSloop. At ten at night having little Wind, we made the Signal for the Fleet to anchor, betweenthe HolmsandMinehead. We lay near two hours, and about twelve we fir’d a Gun, and all came to sail, a fine Gale at S E and E S E. We ran byMineheadat six in the morning, having stem’d the Flood from the place we anchor’d at. We came up with a Sloop about ten a clock; but she could not hold way with the Fleet, being all light and clean Ships, and good Sailors.

From Kingroad to Cork.

August 3.The Wind veer’d to the N E and E N E. Our Ship and theDutchessdid not sail so well as the major part of the Gallies, our Masts and Rigging being all unfit for the Sea, our Ships out of trim, and every thing in disorder, being very indifferently mann’d; notwithstanding our Number, we had not 20 Sailors in the Ship, and it’s very little better on board theDutchess; which is a Discouragement, only we hope to get some good Sailors atCork. We saw a Sail at five last night, theDutchessgave chase, and came near her; she seem’d a large Ship, but we lost sight of her at eighta clock. Being inform’d atBristolthat theJersy, aFrenchMan of War carrying 46 Guns, was cruising betwixtEnglandandIreland, it oblig’d us to keep our Hammocks up, and a clear Ship for a Fight, all night. About two this morning the rest of the Fleet that lay a-stern of us came up, and we kept an easy Sail, with a Light out all Night; but when Day came, we saw nothing, so that this prov’d a false Alarm: which happen’d well for us, since had it been real, we should have made but an indifferent Fight, for want of being better mann’d.

Aug. 4.TheBristolGalley,BerkleyGalley,Prince Eugene, and theBeecherGalley, being bound to the Westward, left us at six in the Evening; little Wind at E S E. and smooth Water.

Aug. 5.We saw the Land, and finding we had overshot our Port, came to an anchor at twelve a clock off of the two Rocks call’d theSovereigns Bollacks[85]nearKinsale, being calm.

Aug. 6.About eight last night we weigh’d with the Flood, a small Gale at East; it came on to blow, and veer’d to the Northward. We had aKinsalePilot on board, who was like to have endanger’d our Ship, it being dark and foggy. Before day he would have turn’d us into the next Bay to the Westward ofCork, had not I prevented it; which provok’d me to chastise him for undertaking to pilot a Ship, since he understood his Business no better. The rest of our Company, except theDiamondandSherstoneGalley, got intoCorkbefore us; only our Consort staid in the Harbour’s Mouth till we came up with her.

Aug. 7.Yesterday at three in the Afternoon we came to an anchor with our Consort in the Cove, Wind at N N E.

Aug. 8.Came in theArundela Queen’s Ship, and order’d us to strike our Pendant; which we immediately did, all private Commission Ships being oblig’d by their Instructions to pay that Respect to all her Majesty’s Ships and Fortifications.

Aug. 9.Yesterday Afternoon came in theHastingswith the Fleet under her Convoy, which we left inKingroad: as also theElizabeth, a Merchant-Ship of 500 Tuns, about 26 Guns, and well mann’d, with a Fleet under her Convoy fromLeverpool, bound to the Westward, with us and theHastings, &c. Fair Weather, the Wind Southerly.

Aug. 10.We were well pleas’d with the Men Mr.Noblett Rogers[86]got for us atCork; upon which we clear’d several of those brought fromBristol, and some of ’em run away, being ordinary Fellows, and not fit for our Employment.

Aug. 11.It blow’d fresh and dirty Weather; we had four Lighters fromCorkto discharge our Ships, that we might have them well stow’d, and the Provisions in the bottom when they came aboard us. We lengthen’d our Mizen-Mast four Foot and a half, by placing it on a Step on the Gun-Deck; got our Fore-Mast forward, and did what we could in order to be in a better trim than before, against we had better Men to work the Ship, who lay all ready to come aboard fromCork.

Aug. 12.Blew fresh, and dirty Weather; we clear’d and run near forty of our fresh-water Sailors. TheShoreham, Capt.Saunders,[87]came hither to convoy a Fleet back toBristol.

Aug. 16.Continu’d dirty Weather, so that we could not have an Opportunity to heel our Ship and clean her Bottom; and were forc’d to keep our Provisions cover’d in the Lighter, and Men to watch ’em. This Morning, about ten, one Boat loaded with Men came down fromCorkto us. The Fellows appear’d to be brisk, but of several Nations; and I sent to Mr.Rogersto stop the rest till we were ready, our Ships being pester’d.

Aug. 28.Nothing happen’d worth notice since the 16th, but that we had good Weather to clean and tallow our Ships five Streaks below the Water-Line, and to take in our Provisions and Men,&c.This Morning we fell down to theSpit-endby theHastingsMan of War, as our Consort did the night before. When I came without theSpit-end, I saluted theHastingswith seven Guns; they return’d five, and I three for Thanks. We had now above double the number of Officers usual in Privateers, and a large Complement of Men to each Ship. We took this Method of doubling our Officers to prevent Mutinies, which often happen in long Voyages, and that we might have a large Provision for a Succession of

At Cork in Ireland.

Officers in each Ship, in case of Mortality. Our Ship was now so full that we sent our Sheet-Cable and other new Store Cordage to Mr.Noblett RogersatCork, to make room for our Men and Provisions; having three Cables besides, and being willing rather to spare that, than any thing else we had aboard. Our Crew were continually marrying whilst we staid atCork, tho they expected to sail immediately. Among others there was aDanecoupled by a Romish Priest to anIrishWoman, without understanding a word of each other’s Language, so that they were forc’d to use an Interpreter; yet I perceiv’d this Pair seem’d more afflicted at Separation than any of the rest: The Fellow continu’d melancholy for several days after we were at Sea. The rest understanding each other, drank their Cans of Flip[88]till the last minute, concluded with a Health to our good Voyage, and their happy Meeting, and then parted unconcern’d.

I think it necessary to set down here the Names of all the Officers in both Ships, with the Number of our Men; because it is proper, that the Persons whom this Journal concerns, should be known.

Officers of theDuke

Woodes Rogers, Captain, a Mariner;Thomas Dover, a Doctor of Physick, second Captain, President of our Council, and Captain of the Marines;Carleton Vanbrugh, Merchant, now our Owners Agent;Robert Fry, a Mariner, chief Lieutenant;Charles Pope, second Lieutenant;Thomas Glendall, third Lieutenant;John Bridge, Master;William Dampier, Pilot for theSouth-Seas, who had been already three times there, and twice round the World;Alexander Vaughan, chief Mate;Lanc. Appleby, second Mate;John Ballet, rated third Mate, but design’d Surgeon, if occasion; he had been CaptainDampier’sDoctor, in his last unfortunate Voyage round the World;Samuel Hopkins, being Dr.Dover’sKinsman and an Apothecary, was both an Assistant to him, and to act as his Lieutenant, if we landed a Party any where under his Command during the Voyage;George UnderhillandJohn Parker, two young Lawyers design’d to act as Midshipmen;John Vigor, a Reformado,[89]to act as Capt.Dover’sEnsign when ashore;Benj. ParsonsandHowel Knethel, Midshipmen;Richard Edwards, Coxswain of thePinnace, to receive Midshipmens Pay;James Wasse, Surgeon;Charles May, his Mate;John Lancy, Assistant;Henry Oliphant, Gunner, with eight Men call’d the Gunner’s Crew;Nath. Scorch, Carpenter;John Jones, his Mate, with three Assistants;Giles Cash, Boatswain; andJohn Pillar, his Mate;John Shepard, Cooper, with two Assistants;John Johnson,Thomas Young,Charles Clovet, andJohn Bowden, all four Quarter-Masters;John Finch, late wholesale Oilman ofLondon, now Ship’s Steward;Henry Newkirk, Sail-maker;Peter Vandenhende, Smith and Armourer;William Hopkins, Ship’s Corporal, Capt.Dover’sSerjeant, and Cook to the Officers;Barth. Burnes, Ship’s Cook.

Officers of theDutchess

Stephen Courtney, Captain, a Mariner;Edward Cook, second Captain;William Stretton, chief Lieutenant;John Rogers, second Lieutenant;John Connely, third Lieutenant;William Bath, Owners Agent;George Milbourn, Master;Robert Knowlman, chief Mate;Henry Duck, second;Simon Hatley, third;James Goodall, fourth; andWilliam Page, fifth Mate: With all other inferior Officers much the same as aboard theDuke. Most of us, the chief Officers, embrac’d this Trip of Privateering round the World, to retrieve the Losses we had sustain’d by the Enemy. Our Complement of Sailors in both Ships was 333, of which above one Third were Foreigners from most Nations; several of her Majesty’s Subjects on board were Tinkers, Taylors, Hay-makers, Pedlers, Fidlers,&c.one Negro, and about ten Boys. With this mix’d Gang we hop’d to be well mann’d, as soon as they had learnt the Use of Arms, and got their Sea-Legs, which we doubted not soon to teach ’em, and bring them to Discipline.

Septemb. 1.We took sailing Orders, the better to keep Company with theHastingsand Fleet: and after having agreed with our Consort, CaptainCourtney, on Signals between us, which are so common that I need not insert them here, and appointed places of Rendevouz in case of Separation, and how long to lie for each other at every place; about ten this Morning, we came to sail with theHastingsand about 20 Merchant Ships, bound to the Southward and Westward, Wind at N by W. We should have sail’d yesterday, but could not weigh and cast our Ships clear of the rest; some at that time drove, and theSherstoneGally run quite ashore on theSpit. In the night it grew moderate

Image unavailable: CROSSING THE TROPIC: SAILORS BEING DUCKED AT THE YARD ARM From a scarce print in the Macpherson collection.CROSSING THE TROPIC: SAILORS BEING DUCKED AT THE YARD ARMFrom a scarce print in the Macpherson collection.

Departure from Cork.

Weather, and CaptainPaulgot her off to sail with us. Our Holds are full of Provisions; our Cables, a great deal of Bread, and Water-Casks between Decks; and 183 Men aboard theDuke, with 151 aboard theDutchess: so that we are very much crouded and pester’d Ships, not fit to engage an Enemy without throwing Provision and Stores overboard.

Septemb. 2.We and our Consort stood out of the Fleet to chase a Sail we saw to Windward. Our ships sail’d as well as any in the Fleet, not excepting the Man of War; so that we began to hope we should find our heels, since we go so well tho deep loaden and pester’d. We found the Chase to be a small Vessel coming into the Fleet fromBaltimore, oneHuntMaster, call’d theHopeGally, a smallFrench-built Snow belonging to Mr.James VaughanofBristol, bound forJamaica. Wind at N by W. Moderate Weather.

Septemb. 3.The Wind very veerable from the W S W. to the N W. blow’d strong with Squalls, so that we reef’d often, and our Ship was a little leaky in her upper Works.

Septemb. 4.It blew fresh this Morning, but not so much Wind as Yesterday, and the Water smoother. CaptainPaulmade a Signal for me, Capt.Courtney, and Capt.EdwardsCommander of theScipio; and after speaking with him, he sent his Boat for us, being larger than ours. We with Capt.Doverand Mr.Vanbrughwent in her, and din’d with Capt.Paulaboard his Ship, where we were very handsomly treated. He propos’d to me and Consort when he left the Fleet, which would be very soon, to cruise a few days together off CapeFinister, after having ask’d us what we wanted that he could supply us with. He gave us Scrubbers, Iron Scrapers for our Ships Bottom, a speaking Trumpet, and other things that we wanted: but he would accept nothing from us, because our Voyage would be long; but told us, he should be well pleas’d if our Owners return’d him the same Necessaries for his Ship when he return’d. Wind from the N N W. to the N W by W. moderate.

Septemb. 5.We came from on board Capt.Paulto our own Ships, yesterday at six in the Afternoon; and now thought it fit to discover to our Crew whither we were bound, that if any Disorders should have risen upon it, we might have exchang’d our Malecontents whilst in Company with one of her Majesty’s Ships. But I found no Complaint on board theDuke, except from one Fellow who expected to have been Tything-Man that year in his Parish, and said hisWife would be oblig’d to pay Forty Shillings in his Absence: but seeing all the rest willing, he was easily quieted, and all Hands drank to a good Voyage. I and Capt.Courtneywrit to our Owners, AldermanBatchelorand Company, in the same Letter, a Method we design’d to continue in the whole Voyage, for all things that related to it. A brisk Gale and clear Weather.

Sept. 6.TheHastingsand we parted at six last night. The reason why we did not keep him longer Company, was our Ships being very full, and our Consort unwilling to lose time so near home; so that we were oblig’d to break Measures with Capt.Paul. I excus’d it to him, and saluted him, which he answer’d, and wish’d us a prosperous Undertaking. Wind N. by W. and clear Weather. Our Ship does not sail so well as she did two days before. TheCrownGally ofBiddifordkeeps us Company bound for theMaderas. Wind from N N W. to N by E.

Sept. 8.Every thing now begins to come into Order, we having been hitherto in some Confusion, as is usual in Privateers at first setting out. We had a good Observation. Moderate Weather, Wind at W N W. Lat. 40. 10. N. This day the chief Officers din’d on board me, and the next day on board theDutchess.

Sept. 9.Now we begin to consider the Length of our Voyage, and the many different Climates we must pass, and the excessive Cold which we cannot avoid, going about CapeHorne; at the same time we had but a slender Stock of Liquor, and our Men but meanly clad, yet good Liquor to Sailors is preferable to Clothing. Upon this we held our first Committee, to debate whether ’twas necessary for us to stop atMadera, as follows.

At a Committee held on Board theDukeFrigate, resolv’d by the General Consent of the following Persons:

From Cork to the Southward.

THAT both the ShipsDukeandDutchessdo touch atMadera,to make a larger Provision of Liquors, the better to carry on our long Undertaking, being but meanly stor’d for so large a Number of Men as are in both Ships; and in case of Separation between this Place andMadera,then to meet at the IslandSt. Vincent,one of theCape de VerdIslands, to wood and water our Ships. But if we miss of one another at that Island, or that the first Ship finds it inconvenient for stopping, then toproceed toPraiaonSt. Jago,another of the same Islands; to wait at both these Islands fourteen Days: And then if the missing Ship does not appear, the other to proceed to the Isle ofGrande,in Latitude23 deg. 30 m. S.on the Coast ofBrazil,there to wait three Weeks; and then if we don’t meet, let the single Ship proceed on the Voyage, according to the Orders given from our Owners. This is our Opinion this 9th day ofSeptember, 1708.

Sept. 10.At six in the Morning we saw a Sail; after speaking with our Consort, we both chas’d. I gave theDutchessabout a mile start of us, in order to spread the more. It blew fresh, with a great Sea; and the Chase being to Windward, we crouded extravagantly. Wind at N W.

Sept. 11.At three yesterday Afternoon we came up with the Chase, who bore down right upon us, shewingSwedishColours. I fir’d twice at her before she brought to, then went aboard her with my Yall,[90]CaptainCourtney’sBoat being just before me. We examin’d the Master, and found he came roundScotlandandIreland. We suspected he had Contraband Goods on board, because some of the Men we found drunk, told us they had Gunpowder and Cables; so we resolv’d to examine her strictly, put 12 Men on board her, and kept theSwedesMaster and 12 of his Men on board our Ships. This Morning, after we had examin’d the Men, and searched the Ship, we found it difficult to be prov’d whether she was a Prize: And not willing to hinder time to carry her into any Harbour to examine her farther, we let her go without the least Embezelment. The Master gave me two Hams, and some rufft dry’d Beef, and I gave him a dozen Bottles of Red-Streak Cyder. They saluted us at parting with four Guns: She belong’d toStadtnearHamburg, and was a Frigate built Ship of 22 Guns, about 270 Tuns. While I was on board theSwedeyesterday, our Men mutiny’d, the Ringleaders being our Boatswain, and three other inferior Officers. This Morning the chief Officers having kept with me in the after-part of the Ship, we confin’dthe Authors of this Disorder, in which there was not one Foreigner concern’d. We put ten of the Mutineers in Irons, a Sailor being first soundly whip’d for exciting the rest to join him. Others less guilty I punish’d and discharg’d, but kept the chief Officers all arm’d, fearing what might happen; the Ship’s Company seeming too much inclin’d to favour the Mutineers, made me the easier forgive. Some beg’d Pardon, and others I was forc’d to wink at; however, they began to find their Design frustrated, which was to make a Prize of theSwede, who they alledg’d had much Contraband Goods aboard, tho we could see none; yet they obstinately insisted, that we apparently gave away their Interest, by letting her go without plundering her. I labour’d to convince them of the necessity of our making Dispatch, and that if we could make her a Prize, it would unman our Ships too much to send her into any Port, besides other Disadvantages it might procure to our selves and Owners should we be mistaken; which pacify’d the major part. Our Consort’s Men were at first very uneasy, but finding the Malecontents quell’d aboard our Ship, they all kept quiet.

Sept. 12.Yesterday the Wind was very little and veerable, and we had an Observation, 34 deg. 30 min. N.

Sept. 13.Those in Irons discover’d others who were Ringleaders in the Mutiny, whom we also punish’d, and confin’d one of them in Irons with the rest.Alexander Wynterwas made Boatswain instead ofGiles Cash, one of the Mutineers. Fair pleasant Weather, little Wind at N W by W.

Arrival among the Canary Isles.

Sept. 14.I agreed with the Captain of theCrownGalley to carry my Boatswain (who was the most dangerous Fellow among the Mutineers) in Irons with him toMaderas. I did not at his first Confinement think of sending him off; but this day a Sailor came aft to the Steeridg Door, with near half the Ship’s Company of Sailors following him, and demanded the Boatswain out of Irons. I desir’d him to speak with me by himself on the Quarter-Deck, which he did, where the Officers assisted me, seiz’d him, and made one of his chief Comrades whip him. This Method I thought best for breaking any unlawful Friendship amongst themselves; which, with different Correction to other Offenders, allay’d the Tumult; so that now they begin to submit quietly, and those in Irons beg Pardon, and promise Amendment, This Mutiny would not have been easily lay’d, were it not for the number of our Officers, which we begin to find very necessary to bring our Crew to Order and Discipline, whichis always very difficult in Privateers, and without which ’tis impossible to carry on any distant Undertaking like ours. Fine pleasant Weather, and moderate Gales.

It being little Wind, and contrary, we agreed to pass byMaderas, and cruise a little amongst theCanaryIslands for Liquor, to prevent Loss of time: So we took leave of theCrownGalley, who was bound intoMadera.

Sept. 15.Last night we sentGiles Cashaboard her in Irons, with several Letters by the Commander at large to our Owners. We parted at twelve a Clock at night. Fair Weather, very little Wind from W N W. to N by E. had a very good Observation. Latitude 31 deg. 29 min. N.

Sept. 16.I discharg’d the Prisoners from their Irons, upon their humble Submission and strict Promises of good Behaviour for time to come. While they continu’d in Irons they had Centries over them, and were fed with Bread and Water. Those that were Officers we restor’d to their Places, and every body was order’d to obey them;John Pillarthe Boatswain’s Mate was advanc’d to be Boatswain, so that we are all quiet again. About eight this morning we saw Land, and found it to beSalvage’sIsland, bearing S S W. distant eight Leagues, Latitude 29 deg. 45 min. Wind very little, and veerable, with fair clear Weather.

Sept. 17.Moderate Gales of Wind; theSalvagesat a distance is not unlike the IslandLundyinBristolChannel, about two miles long, a high Island. This Morning we saw the Rock, that appear’d to us a good League to the S W. of the Island, and took it to be a Sail till we came near it. Little Wind between the N N E. and the West.

Sept. 18.At four yesterday in the Afternoon we came in sight ofPico Teneriff, bearing S W by W. distant about eight Leagues; steer’d S S E. and S E by S. forGrand Canaries. This Morning about five a clock we spy’d a Sail under our Lee Bow, between the Islands ofGrand CanariesandForteventura; we chas’d her, and at 7 came up with her. Our Consort being a little a Head, fir’d a Gun, and made her bring to; she prov’d a Prize, being aSpanishBark about 25 Tuns, belonging toOratavaonTeneriff, and bound toForteventurawith about 45 Passengers; who rejoic’d when they found usEnglish, because they fear’d we wereTurks. Amongst the Prisoners were four Fryars, and one of them the Padre Guardian for the IslandForteventura, a good honestold Fellow. We made him heartily merry, drinking KingCharlesthe Third’s[91]Health; but the rest were of the wrong sort. We us’d them all very well, without searching them,&c.Fresh Gales and fair Weather, Wind from the N N E. to the E S E.

Sept. 19.After we had took the Prize, we stood to the Westward forTeneriff, in order to have her ransom’d; where our Agent Mr.Vanbrughpress’d to go ashoar with some of the Prisoners. At eleven last night the Wind being at N E. when we were very near the Shore, we could hardly weather CapeNago, the Eastermost part ofTeneriff, till the Wind veer’d to the Northward. We stood off till Day: In the Morning it prov’d moderate, so we stood in forOratava, and sent theSpanishMaster of the Bark to it in his Boat, being mann’d with some of the Prisoners. Mr.Vanbrughstill insisting to go ashore, I consented, tho against my Judgment, and he went with them to treat for the Ransom of the Hull of the Bark; her small Cargo, which consisted in two Butts of Wine, and one Hogshead of Brandy, and other small matters, we design’d for our own use in both Ships, the Agents of each being to take an account of it the first Opportunity. Fresh Gale of Wind at N E.

Sept. 20.About eight this Morning came a Boat off fromOratavawith a Flag of Truce, and brought a Letter signifying that unless we would immediately restore the Bark and Cargo, Mr.Vanbrughshould be detain’d. I sent to Capt.Courtney, who agreed with me on an Answer. We stood in with our Ships within a League of the Town, to tow in the Boat for Dispatch, and about eleven they went ashore again. Wind at N E by E. very fresh.

The Letter sent us was as follows:

Capt.Rogersand Capt.Courtney;Gentlemen,PortOratava, 20 Sept. 1708.‘YOUR Lieutenant coming ashore, and having given an account to our Governor of your having taken a Boat belonging to this place bound toForteventura; we must inform you that her Majesty is graciously pleas’d to allow a Trade between her Subjects and the People of these Islands, whereof we suppose you are not ignorant; and that it is approv’d of not only by his Catholick Majesty, but also by the most gracious Christian King, who has sentAmongst the Canary Isles.express Orders unto his Consul here, that none of his Men of War or others shall molest any Ship trading to these Islands: and there has been actually an Example of a Ship belonging to the Subjects of herBritannickMajesty, which was taken by aFrenchPrivateer, and upon due Application to theFrenchConsul, the Ship was restor’d. Wherefore we are all of Opinion, that there can be no room for your making a Prize of thisSpanishBark; for it will be extremely prejudicial to her Majesty’s Subjects that reside here, and likewise to those inEnglandtrading hither, by prohibiting of all future Trade, by making more than sufficient Reprisal upon our Effects here, and perhaps on our Persons, by reason of the evident Breach on our part of the stipulated Trade which has been concerted with us. Wherefore we must once more desire you to restore theSpanishBark, as you will answer the contrary before her Majesty, who has so far approv’d of the private Trade, that she was pleas’d to allow of two Men of War (viz. theDartmouthCapt.Cock, and theGreyhoundCapt.Hariot) the last year, who had express Orders to molest in no manner of way any Vessel belonging to theSpaniards; which accordingly they observ’d. Wherefore as you have a due Regard to what is so much the Interest of her Majesties Subjects, we expect at the return of this Boat, that you will make Restitution of the said Bark, otherwise Mr.Vanbrughwill not be permitted to go off, and there will be extravagant Reprisals made upon our Estates and Persons, which we expect you will take into your Consideration: and we cannot omit to let you know, that there is now aSpanishBark actually inEngland, which is daily expected with otherEnglishShips to load Wine, which they will not be admitted to do, in case you don’t restore this Bark. We don’t doubt but the People here out of Complaisance will make you some acknowledgment of a Refreshment.Gentlemen,Your very humble Servants,J. Pouldon,Vice-Consul,J. Crosse,Bernard Walsh,G. Fitz-Gerald.‘Pray excuse Haste, that we have not time to transcribe.‘The rest of the Merchants are in the City where our Governor generally resides, being about six Leagues hence.

Capt.Rogersand Capt.Courtney;

Gentlemen,

PortOratava, 20 Sept. 1708.

‘YOUR Lieutenant coming ashore, and having given an account to our Governor of your having taken a Boat belonging to this place bound toForteventura; we must inform you that her Majesty is graciously pleas’d to allow a Trade between her Subjects and the People of these Islands, whereof we suppose you are not ignorant; and that it is approv’d of not only by his Catholick Majesty, but also by the most gracious Christian King, who has sentAmongst the Canary Isles.express Orders unto his Consul here, that none of his Men of War or others shall molest any Ship trading to these Islands: and there has been actually an Example of a Ship belonging to the Subjects of herBritannickMajesty, which was taken by aFrenchPrivateer, and upon due Application to theFrenchConsul, the Ship was restor’d. Wherefore we are all of Opinion, that there can be no room for your making a Prize of thisSpanishBark; for it will be extremely prejudicial to her Majesty’s Subjects that reside here, and likewise to those inEnglandtrading hither, by prohibiting of all future Trade, by making more than sufficient Reprisal upon our Effects here, and perhaps on our Persons, by reason of the evident Breach on our part of the stipulated Trade which has been concerted with us. Wherefore we must once more desire you to restore theSpanishBark, as you will answer the contrary before her Majesty, who has so far approv’d of the private Trade, that she was pleas’d to allow of two Men of War (viz. theDartmouthCapt.Cock, and theGreyhoundCapt.Hariot) the last year, who had express Orders to molest in no manner of way any Vessel belonging to theSpaniards; which accordingly they observ’d. Wherefore as you have a due Regard to what is so much the Interest of her Majesties Subjects, we expect at the return of this Boat, that you will make Restitution of the said Bark, otherwise Mr.Vanbrughwill not be permitted to go off, and there will be extravagant Reprisals made upon our Estates and Persons, which we expect you will take into your Consideration: and we cannot omit to let you know, that there is now aSpanishBark actually inEngland, which is daily expected with otherEnglishShips to load Wine, which they will not be admitted to do, in case you don’t restore this Bark. We don’t doubt but the People here out of Complaisance will make you some acknowledgment of a Refreshment.

‘Pray excuse Haste, that we have not time to transcribe.

‘The rest of the Merchants are in the City where our Governor generally resides, being about six Leagues hence.

Our Answer was thus:

On board theDuke Frigat,Sept. 20.Gentlemen,‘WE have yours, and observe its Contents; but having no Instructions given us with our Commission relating toSpanishVessels trading amongst these Islands, we can’t justify the parting with this Bark on your single Opinions. It was Mr.Vanbrugh’smisfortune to go ashore; and if he is detain’d, we can’t help it. To have convinc’d us satisfactorily of what you say, you ought to have sent us a Copy of her Majesty’s Orders or Proclamation; but we doubt there’s no such thing in this case. If Mr.Vanbrughis unjustly detain’d, we’ll carry the Prisoners we have on board to the Port we are bound to, let the Consequence be what it will. We are requir’d to be accountable no farther than we are oblig’d by our Instructions, which we have given sufficient Security already to follow, and don’t fear aPremunirewhen we comply with them. We know Fishing-Boats are excus’d on both sides, and all trading Vessels fromRio la Hacheto the River ofChagrein theSpanish West-Indies. We admire the Master and Passengers should be so ignorant of a thing so necessary to be known by ’em, for we never had the least word or intimation from them of what you write. The Example you give us of a Trade here allow’d by theFrenchKing and Duke ofAnjou, we don’t admire at, because it is for the Benefit of theSpaniards; and we know theEnglishShips are protected no farther than in Anchor-Ground: and since we took this Vessel at Sea, we shan’t part with her unless on our own Terms. If you are positive in what you wrote us, and conscious what detriment it will be to theEnglishTrade, you have no way to prevent it, but immediately to ransom this Bark; and if it be her Majesty ofGreat Britain’sPleasure, and we are better inform’d inEngland, then we can justify our Conduct to the Gentlemen that imploy’d us, and you will be again reimbursed. We shall wait but a short time for an Answer, having Water and Provisions for our selves and Prisoners to theEnglishSettlements, where we are bound. We are apprehensive you are oblig’d to give us this Advice to gratify theSpaniards; and with Respect are,Gentlemen,Your Humble Servants,Woodes Rogers,Stephen Courtney.

On board theDuke Frigat,Sept. 20.

Gentlemen,

‘WE have yours, and observe its Contents; but having no Instructions given us with our Commission relating toSpanishVessels trading amongst these Islands, we can’t justify the parting with this Bark on your single Opinions. It was Mr.Vanbrugh’smisfortune to go ashore; and if he is detain’d, we can’t help it. To have convinc’d us satisfactorily of what you say, you ought to have sent us a Copy of her Majesty’s Orders or Proclamation; but we doubt there’s no such thing in this case. If Mr.Vanbrughis unjustly detain’d, we’ll carry the Prisoners we have on board to the Port we are bound to, let the Consequence be what it will. We are requir’d to be accountable no farther than we are oblig’d by our Instructions, which we have given sufficient Security already to follow, and don’t fear aPremunirewhen we comply with them. We know Fishing-Boats are excus’d on both sides, and all trading Vessels fromRio la Hacheto the River ofChagrein theSpanish West-Indies. We admire the Master and Passengers should be so ignorant of a thing so necessary to be known by ’em, for we never had the least word or intimation from them of what you write. The Example you give us of a Trade here allow’d by theFrenchKing and Duke ofAnjou, we don’t admire at, because it is for the Benefit of theSpaniards; and we know theEnglishShips are protected no farther than in Anchor-Ground: and since we took this Vessel at Sea, we shan’t part with her unless on our own Terms. If you are positive in what you wrote us, and conscious what detriment it will be to theEnglishTrade, you have no way to prevent it, but immediately to ransom this Bark; and if it be her Majesty ofGreat Britain’sPleasure, and we are better inform’d inEngland, then we can justify our Conduct to the Gentlemen that imploy’d us, and you will be again reimbursed. We shall wait but a short time for an Answer, having Water and Provisions for our selves and Prisoners to theEnglishSettlements, where we are bound. We are apprehensive you are oblig’d to give us this Advice to gratify theSpaniards; and with Respect are,

Gentlemen,Your Humble Servants,Woodes Rogers,Stephen Courtney.

Amongst the Canary Isles.

‘If you send us Mr.Vanbrugh, and the Man with him, we’ll send you the Prisoners; but we’ll not part from the Bark, unless ransom’d: tho the Value is not much, we will not be impos’d on. We desire you to use all manner of Dispatch without loss of time, which we can’t allow, nor answer it to our Employers.

Sept. 21.At six last night theSpanishBoat came again to us with dilatory Answers to our last, insisting on behalf of theSpaniards, that the Goods should be return’d ’em, tho they consented to ransom the Bark. To which we immediately return’d an Answer; for we were angry at their Tediousness and our ill Treatment, our time being precious, because we were inform’d that they expected every hour a small Privateer that usually cruis’d off ofMadera, as also aSpanishShip from theWest-Indiesdesign’d forSanta Cruz: So that it look’d like a Design, to keep us here in suspence till these Ships might get safely in, on the other side of the Island. Our Answer was to this effect: That had it not been out of respect to our Officer on shore, we would not have staid one minute, but would now stay till Morning for their Answer, and take a Cruise among the Islands some time longer than we intended, in order to make a Reprisal; and tho we could not land our Men, would visit the Town with our Guns by eight next morning: adding, that we hop’d to meet with the Governor’s Frigat, and should repay his Civility in his own way, but wonder’d that they beingEnglishmenshould trifle with us. The Letter had its effect; for this Morning at eight a clock we stood in close to the Town, and spy’d a Boat coming off, which prov’d to be one Mr.CrosseanEnglishMerchant, and Mr.Vanbrughour Agent with him, with Wine, Grapes, Hogs, and other Necessaries, for the Ransom of the Bark. Upon his coming up, we immediately went to work, discharg’d the Bark, and parted the small Cargo between our two Ships. We treated Mr.Crosseas well as we could, and at his desire gave the Prisoners back as much as we could find of what belong’d to their Persons; particularly to the Fryars their Books, Crucifixes, and Reliques. We presented the oldPadreGuardian with a Cheese, and such as were strip’d, with other Clothes. So that we parted, very well satisfy’d on all sides. Mr.Crossetold us theSpaniardsashore were very inquisitive whither we were bound; and understanding by the Prisoners that our Ships were sheath’d, and so full of Provisions, they suspectedwe design’d for theSouth-Sea: and he inform’d us that four or fiveFrenchShips from 24 to 50 Guns sail’d thence about a month before on the same Voyage. But we did not think fit to own there, that we were bound to any other place than theEnglish West-Indies. These Islands being so well known, I need not add any Description of them. We saw the Pike ofTeneriffplain but once while there, it being generally clouded; you may often see the Top above the Clouds, when the rest is all cover’d with them. Now we are indifferently well stock’d with Liquor, and shall be the better able to endure the Cold when we get the Length of CapeHorn, which we are inform’d has always very cold bad Weather near it.

Sept. 22.Last night just as we had finish’d with Mr.Crosse, and deliver’d theSpaniardstheir Bark, we spy’d a Sail to the Westward of the Island between three and four in the Evening. We immediately made what Sail we could, and steer’d W by N. along the Shore. At eight a clock we were in sight ofGomerabearing S S W. distant three Leagues,PalmaW by N. distant five Leagues. We lost sight of the Sail before Night, spoke with our Consort, and agreed to keep betweenPalmaandGomerain our Voyage; it being uncertain to meet with the Chase the next day, since last night she was near five Leagues from us, so that we believ’d she might get into a place of safety, if an Enemy, before we could see her. Besides, there came on a stiff Gale, which put us quite out of hopes of seeing her again to advantage. Fair Weather, fresh Gales at N E by N.

Sept. 23.About five yesterday in the afternoon, when at least 36 Leagues distant, we saw thePico Teneriffvery plain. Fine pleasant Weather, fresh Gales with smooth Water, Wind at N E by E.

Sept. 24.We sent our Boat for Capt.Courtney, Capt.Cook, Mr.Stratton, and Mr.Baththeir Agent, who staid and din’d with us; and whilst they were aboard, we held a Council, the Result of which was as follows.

Back to Index Next