JAMAICA VIEWED: WITH All the Ports, Harbours, and their several Soundings, Towns, and Settlements thereunto belonging TOGETHER, With the nature of its Climate, fruitfulness of the Soil, and its suitableness to English Complexions. With several other collateral Observations and Reflections upon the ISLAND. The second Edition. By E. H. LONDON, Printed for john Williams, at the Crown in St. Paul's Churchyard, 1661. TO THE KING'S Most Excellent MAJESTY. May it please your Majesty, ALl your Dominions, being the happy Subjects of your care, are therefore, the proper objects of your view: If in the throng then, Jamaica here humbly presents herself to your Royal presence, be pleased to Interpret this her obsequiousness to be duty, not intrusion. For since your Majesty has already graciously deigned this Isle your Royal Patronage, vouchsafe, Great Sir, at some vacant hour to grace It with your auspicious Aspect, in this Mirror, with all humility presented by Your Majesty's faithfully devoted Servant, Edm. Hickeringill. TO THE READER. THE Partial Censures & nicknames which prejudice and interest have injuriously imposed upon the Island of Jamaica, (after it became the Refuge of that English Colony that of late unhappily invaded Hispaniola) moved me, in the negligence of better Pens, to Apologise for it, in this ensuing Description; For indeed to describe Jamaica, is to praise it; nor can it look better than with it's own face, exempt from the adulterate Fucus of artificial Piliary: And believe me, Reader, 'twas no private nor politic design, (hereby to allure and duccoy the unwary world) but mere zeal to truth, that engaged me by my opportune continuance there, to do this right to that injured Island. Quid dem? Quid non dem? renuis tu quod jubet alter. Hor. To my honoured Friend. Capt. Edm. Hickeringill; Upon his Reflections on jamaica: At his Return. THis Welcome-home, how blunt so ere it be, Thou wilt accept, Dear Mun, coming from me: And deign it to attend thy smother Line, Mine's honoured with an Handmaid's place to thine: And though thou knowest, thou hadst my Heart before, Methinks I love thee for this Book the more, Which I would Preface with Applauses fit, (Praising therein my judgement, and thy wit) But that thou dost detest bespoken Bays. Yet Truth compels me to prefix this Praise, That as Thy pregnant Lines now life doth give Unto Jamaica; here long shall it live: And this epitomised Urn shall retain The Indies Memory when they're dead again. Observe. amicitiae ergo composuit G. E. Med. D. map of Jamaica JAMAICA JAMAICA VIEWED. THat the Island of jamaica was rather the Grave than Granary to the first English Colony (seated there, after their inauspicious Enterprise, upon Hispaniola) cannot modestly be denied; Whether occasioned by the griping Monopoly of some hoarding Officers; or through want of timely Recruits, always found necessary for such Infant-settlements: or, through some fatal Conjunction of the superior Luminaties, (that frown by course with a squint and malignant Aspects on one Nation or other,) I will not now dispute. But that such a Mortality should proceed, either from the Clime, being situate in the Torrid Zone, (a Heresy unpardonable in the ancients;) or from any accidental Malignity in any of the Elements, peculiarly entailed upon it, whereby it should be less habitable than any other most auspicious settlement remains here to be controverted. The Decision whereof can be no better evidenced, then by a faithful Description, Of the nature of the Clime, and Soil. 1. FIrst therefore, it's Climate is placed betwixt the Tropics, in 17 and 18. degrees of Northern Latitude; and therefore twice every year subjected to the Perpendicular Beams of the Sun, whence it borrowed the style of Torrid Zone; a name which did so bugbear and affright the credulity of our Ancestors, that they unjustly exiled and razed it out from the habitable part of the world, (then monopolised in the temperate Zones) till the more daring spirits of Columbus, and others, convoyed us to an experimental confidence in the contrary; the Chariby Islands, Barbadoes, St. Kits, Mevis, Antego, etc. having proved as happy to the complexions and constitutions of English men; as Virginia, New England; nay as Portugal, Spain, Italy, or any other confines upon the Mediterranean Sea, all which notwithstanding, are situate in the Temperate Zone; a term of Art that now Ironically scandalises that vulgar division of the World into Zones habitable, (the Temperate Zones;) and inhabitable, the (Frigid, and Torrid Zone.) For I must avouch that I have found the Air as sulphurous and hot in England, in the months of june, july, and August, especially whilst the Sun was near the Meridian, as in the hottest seasons at jamaica, whilst the Sun makes a double in Cancer) or in Guiana, in the months of March, and September; whilst the Sun gallops o'er their Zenith in the Aequinox. And this will appear to be no such prodigious a Paradox, if we be undeceived of that vulgar error, that the neighbourhood of the Sun is the only cause of extreme heat, and its elongation the reason of extremity of cold: for if so, our Summers would be equally hot one year, as another, and each day (after the Sun's departure from the winter Solstice) hotter then another, till he had posted over his halfdirect stages to face about in retrograde Cancer) both which experience doth disprove; for though his appropriation and elongation be the same every year, yet our Summers and Winters are not equally hot and cold, and therefore we must seek out for more intrinsecal and occult causes; which now (are not the Asylum of ignorance) since we can certainly ascribe them to the Sun's Conjunction (improperly termed an Aspect) and his Aspects with other Planets, together with his configurations, with the Fixed stars: for the weather is usually the hottest with us in England, after the Sun hath taken his leave of us from his nearest visit, and most fervent Compliment, in the foot of Gemini, with his old fashioned Congee in the Right knee and shoulder of Orion, and Auriga: and our hottest seasons are the Dog days; yet doth not the Sun accompany the lesser heavenly Dog, till he come to his feminine nocturnal and unfortunate Lodging, which is in the eighteenth Degree of Cancer; of which more at large you may consult Astronomy; my business here being only to present you with an Historical Truth. And as the coldness of our Night-air in England tempers our hottest and most canine seasons; so the fresh Breezes that rise always with the Sun, do fan the sweltering and sultry Climes within the Tropics: so that the days are usually as cold as the nights, except towards the morning, and then a culinary fire is had in request, though the Inhabitants are thought to be dandled in Apollo's Lap, or (as the Poets feign) to have been scorched, when rash Phaeton mistook his way, in his unskilled and unhappy Journey, — magnae pereunt cum moenibus urbes: Cumque suis totas populis incendiae Gentes In cinerem vertunt, sylvae cum montibus ardent, Ardet Aethos— Quodque suo Tagus omne vehit fluit igntbus aurum. Ovid. Met. l. 2. This scorched soil Phaethon to Cinders burned, When he his Father's Chariot overturned; With hotter flames (if fame we credit may) Then those he smutched in Aethiopia. But the Native Indians are sensible of no such extraordinary warmth; always making a fire under their Hammocks, that the piercing air disturb not their sleep. And the English themselves that inhabit almost under the Line in Surinam, contemn not their Coverlets in the night; though indeed very few of them rest in beds, but Hammocks, which do somewhat the more expose the body to the inquisition of the searching vapours. Yet as the extremities of cold in these Regions betwixt the Tropics are indisputably more remiss then in England, and the rest of Europe; so the heat qualified with the benefit of the Breezes, more justly styles them Temperate, than those Climates that have already falsely, (though with vulgar consent) usurped the Title. And I must not credit my senses, if I should not affirm, that upon an impartial compare, I never came in more temperate Climes than those of jamaica, Hispaniola, St. Kits, Barbadoes, etc. so slanderously calumniated; the heat in the day time being always alloyed with the Sea Breezes; and the nights, naturally cool, are by an interchangeable and neverfailing intercourse, refreshed with Land Breezes; and therefore authentically renowned (by the Lord Verulam, and others,) above Barbary, Spain, and Italy (though famed to be the world's Garden) as being neither so intemperately hot nor cold. Though the Lord Bacon's Arguments are only drawn from the Dictates of his reason, neither backed nor reinforced with experience; now sufficiently confirmed by every Mariner, to take off the greatest sit-fast of incredulity. And this shall suffice for our information touching the Clime. Secondly. The nature of the Soil. 2. THe fertility of the Soil of this Island may best be examined and appear by its Productions, Wild and purely natural; or, Improved and artificial. First then. Of the purely natural, or wild Productions of this Island. 1. With which, the Soil is so pregnant and fertile, that Nature hath stored it in no niggardly nor novercal benevolence, with Oranges, limes, (or bastard Lemmons,) Guavars, Pomegranates, a kind of Pepper, that tastes like Cloves, and very Aromatic (known by the name of jamaica-pepper) with innumerable kinds of several Fruits that have scarcely found a name in English with which the Woods are so universally crowded, that they are likewise incomparably stocked with abundance of Wild Hogs, fat and large, that cannot but thrive well upon so bountiful Commons, as falls from the trees in a very liberal contribution; yet their Ordinary is not so free, but that it sometimes costs them their lives; Their fat backs betraying their throats, to the no small advantage of the Hunters, and the whole Island. Nor are the Woods a more plentiful Nursery for the Hogs than the Savana's are for the Beefs and wild cattle; in some of which one thousand would graze in a drove, till the too greedy and repent eagerness of felling them by Gun shot, frighted them to the shelter of the Woods and Mountains; from whence now they dare scarcely peep, except secured with the covert of the night, (their now usual feeding-time in the Savana's,) and now but in smaller numbers. An inconvenience wisely prevented by the Spaniard (that lately inhabited, and first stocked the Island) who always on horseback singled out the Beast he intended to kill, (if so wild as not to come to his Pen, amongst his tamer fellows) and with a sharp Iron in form of an halfmoon, fastened to a staff, houghed him on both his hin-leggs; afterwards dispatching him at his leisure. With which two singular advantages, for the raising and increase of stock, (either of Swine in the Woods, or Beefs in the Savana's or Plains,) is happy in jamaica above any other Island or Settlement; (whether upon the Continent or Islands of America) at this day peopled by any English Colony and Plantation; and will soon flourish above any other, if it want no due encouragement for the preservation and defence of the Planters. Every ship that comes from the Wind ward Islands of Barbadoes, Mevis, St. Christopher's, &c. being crowded above convenience with all sorts of people. For besides that the Soil yields not to any of the Chariby Islands in the plentiful produce of Sugarcanes, Tobacco, Cotton, Maiz or Indian Corn, Potatoes, Yawmes, and the like American Provisions: it hath three, or four singular and extraordinary Advantages to enrich the Planter. First: 1. By the speedy raising a stock of cattle, though from a very mean principle, and beginnings: a notable Policy in the thriving Spaniard upon Hispaniola, and especially, on Cuba, which is better peopled;) and 'tis this: Near some convenient place, in the Wood, that is best stored with all sorts of fruitbearing Trees, as Orange-trees, a sort of Cabbage-trees, raged with berries, etc. they build two or three little Houses, or more; by them called a Crawl, and in these, they first enclose these tame Hogs, with which they begin their stock, and there feed them; that after (being let out) they will come to the haunt, at the sound of a Horn; But if they be out of hearing, (they many times suspending all care of them for a week together) they go out with three or four Dogs, that hunt them in; the whole Herd making homewards so soon as ever the Dogs do Bay them; unto which discipline, if any of the Hogs be not conformable, his refractoriness costs him his life; his keeper (for example sake) scarcely indemnifying him for the first fault. Thus two or three Spanish slaves, (for a native Spaniard scorns the Employ) will look to six or seven hundred Hogs, and provide them meat, not putting their Masters to a penny charge. Which course may as effectually be managed upon jamaica, in any part of the Island; unparallelled by any other English settlement in the more VVind-ward Islands. For a stock of Sheep, Cows, Horses, Goats, and the like, there is excellent Pasture in the Savana's; some of them, forty, some fifty miles in circumference, wherein the grass springs fresh and green all the year long. The Earth never recalling her lent sap (as she does mock the Europeans) by giving and taking again, every Month being an April; The Trees and Plants being never disrobed of their Phary-liveries, but wear their best clothes every day; in which prodigality they are licenc'd and born out, by their indulgent Parents, the Sun and the Earth; These Regions being their Darlings, and (to use Sir Walter Raleighs stile (The Paradise of the world. In so much as here is plenty of food to relieve the Planters cattle throughout the year, needing no winter- hoard; The providence of the Ant being useless here. 2. Another singular benefit to the Planter, is the large numbers of wild Horses, well shaped and very serviceable, being all bred of the Spanish Gennets, one of these tamed and well managed may be bought for three pounds' sterl which would yield six thousand pounds of Sugar at the Barbadoss: of which special advantage, in easing the charge of making Sugars, needs no dispute. 3. Thirdly, the said Savana's are common to every man that will make use of them; For as they are good for little else: The woody ground producing the best Provisions for a family, as Corn, Potatoes, Plantanes, Cassauder, Sugar Canes, etc. so seating yourself upon the skirt of a Savana, bordering upon a Wood, you may with convenience enjoy the benefit of both. Again, as you may stock these Plains without limit; so you may have fifty Acres, per head, for yourself and servants, freely assigned and made over to you, in any place you best like to make your choice; so that the seat, you pitch upon, be not first taken up by another; whereas in St. Kits, Barbadoes, etc. you cannot turn a Horse out but he presently trespasseth upon his Neighbour, if not upon your own Canes: the most barren Rocks (even in the Scotland of Barbadoss) owning a Proprietor, and the whole Island pestered with a super-numerary glut of Inhabitants; too small a Hive for such a swarm of people. Lastly, I shall conclude the transcendency of this Isle, by the abundant plenty of choice Timber trees and Wood for the Dyer's use, as Fustick, Brasiletta, Ebonies, and a kind of Logwood; (but not so effectual as that which grows in the Bay of Campeachee) together with choice of medicinal Drugs, as China Roots, Gum Guaic. Lignum vit-Trees, Cassia, etc. And thus much of the wild and purely natural productions of this happy Soil. Reddit ubi venerem tellus inarata quotannis: The Virgin-earth's not barren here, But will unoccupyed, Fruit, bear. 2. General. Second, Of the improved Productions of the Isle. IN the next place, the fruits of jamaica that are produced by the improvement of Art, will most methodically present themselves to be considered; wherein I shall purposely omit to give the Reader any account of those usual Household Provisions, of Cassawder, Corn, Potatoes, etc. nor of those Merchantable Commodities of Cotton, Indigo, Tobacco, Sugar, etc. common to it with the rest of the English Plantations; But presuming the Reader's acquaintance with those Fruits and Merchandise so vulgarly known; I shall only treat of those that are more rare and not to be found in any other of the English Colonies in America. 1. The first that I shall mention is the Cacoa. Walks, which are not few in this Island, some of them containing ten or twelve Acres of Ground, some more, some less: The Trees are about the bigness of our largest Plum-trees in England, orderly set, like our Orchards, at the distance of 6, or 7. foot from each other; which Interstitiums are carefully weeded, and cleared from the Grass, that the Cacoa Trees may without a Rival engross the Sap and substance of the Soil, which is chosen the most fertile that can be got, and naturally screened and shaded from the piercing rays of the Sun; Nor indeed can any ground be better employed; the Spaniard, (who best understands the value of them) reckoning every one of his Cacoa trees to be worth him a piece of Eight per an. after it begins to bear, which is usually about seven years after its first planting; in which time they are once or twice transplanted for the first two years, & especially in their Infancy must be protected from the scorching Sun by the favourable interposition of some shady Trees; and therefore the Plantane-Walks are usually made choice of, for such Nurseries. Of the Fruit or Nuts of these Trees is made the so famed Chocoletta, whose virtues are hyperbolised upon every post in London: though we must confess it of excellent nourishment. The Spaniard victualling for a long and wilderness Journey, with no other Refreshment, than Cakes made of the Kernels of those Cacoa Nuts; which he dissolves in water for his meat and drink. The Composition of these Cacoa Cakes or Chocoletta is now so vulgar, that I will not disparage my Reader by doubting his acquaintance in so known a Recipe, a very Crambe in other Authors. Yet will it not be impertinent to render a most exact description of the Nuts, then is hitherto extant, either in the English or Spanish writings, that have as yet come to my hands. Herrera and Acosta report this fruit to be less than an Almond; whereas Doctor Hernandez, or rather, Antonius Recchius in Hist. Plant. in Amer. excuss. Romae, 1651. describes it to be bigger than a Musk-million. Hernandez was employed by the King of Spain, to give an account of the Physical rarities and Plants of America, and to that purpose dispatched thither by the said Catholic King, and is therefore more creditable and authentic than Herrera or Acosta: though indeed he does somewhat hyperbolise when he equals this Fruit with the largeness of a Musk-million; for the husk or cod is no bigger than the largest Pears in England; growing immediately out of the bowl or body of the Tree, and stock of the branches, admitting not so much as the intermedium or usherage of a twig, sprouting from the bottom to the top, twice especially every year, viz. in the months of january and May, the chief months for the Harvest of them. The outward crust, or put aminous husk, being broken, appears full of little kernels, or nuts, each of them enveloped in a slimy substance and film, of a phlegmatic complexion, but of a most relishing taste: under which is another shell, which when baked in the Sun, resembles the colour and substance of a Chestnut; but the kernel is of a Chesnut-hue both within and without, and of this is made the Chocoletta Cakes; full of an oily substance, not unlike that of the oil of Almonds per expressionem: and of this meanest Labourer in jamaica compounds his Morning draughts, wherein though he fares like a Gallant, yet his following Music upon the Hoe-boy (wherein he practiseth to keep his hand in use, and sometimes till his heart aches) doth more melodiously affect his master's ears then his own, and seems more harmoniously consonant to his Canvas-Drawers, which are also the sometimes ornament of the Petticoat-Sex (through the rigour of their Masters unmanumitted;) so that here likewise the women, (though not with that complacency) sometimes wear the Breeches. In the Bay of Honduras, the Coast of Carthagena, and also in most places of Nova Hispaniola: two of these little Cacoa Nuts (or Kernels) pass currant for one farthing, with which (as good sterling) they truck in the Markets. 2. The Coco Nuts, which grow on a smooth and slender Tree, whose waist (in circumference) equals that of a man's; but it's stature doubles his height. Upon the top of whose Bulk, the Nuts in small clusters do germinate immediately from the Tree, at the footing of the branches. The Nuts (with the Husk on) is of a Pyramtdal form and may ute dimensions with the greatest Loggerhead. The outward rind or husk is of a fibrous, spongy substance, about an inch thick, warily guarding, with superfluous chariness, the enclosed shell, whose Negro-skull is not easily broke. In some Countries (as in Guinee) the Natives, carded out this Rind into a kind of course Tow, which serves them for Cordage, Cables, Okam, and Ropes to rig their Ships; whose Hulls and Masts (as is reported) are shaped out of the body of the Tree; and victualled, only with the Nuts, in whose content, is barrelled up both Drink and Bread; a milky liquor running out, so soon as you give it vent: for which purpose nature hath trimmed it with three bungholes at the top. Thus one Tree sets up a Mariner, and an Orchard sets out a Fleet: and at the return of the Voyage, the Seamen are contentedly paid off with this Fruit alone; which serves for money, meat and drink. And indeed the milky juice is a most ambrosian Dainty, very Diuretic, and proper Pharmacy for Nephritick distempers. Of the shells (polished) are made very handsome Drinking-cups, in which Office, they serve us for rarity here in Europe. But they make no such use of the Rind at jamaica; the inner Bark of a kind of Figtree furnishing them (by the Negro's Art) with all sorts of Cordage, useful in a Plantation. This tree parturiates every Month, and will have fifty or sixty Nuts at a burden. If you cut the Bark of the Tree or Fruit (whilst green) there issues forth a Nectar, like that of the wounded Vine; or the English Birtch-tree perforated in the spring, but of a far more aromatic taste. I purposely omit to speak of other pleasant Fruits in the Country, that are either common with other Islands, or not transported into Europe: because I would not puzzle the Reader with hard names, nor Tantalise him with a Discourse of Dainties, that he is never like to taste in Europe; and those that go thither, need no Tutor. But the Cacoa and Coco Nuts are Merchantable Commodities, enhanced for their singular use and delight. I shall conclude with one rarity more, of which in jamaica is too great a plenty; and that is the Alligator, or Indian Crocodile, an amphibious Creature, that (like an Otter) haunts both the land and water. I have seen many of them upon Hispaniola, but never any in the Chariby Islands, nor in the Wind-ward Settlements upon the Main. It would be too long to tell what large feats are storied of this Beast; as that he will pull the Bulls into the water, (catching them like a keen Mastiff by the cheek) when they come to drink, etc. This is true, that they have an incomparable strength in the water, in which as their most friendly Element, they do usually encounter the prey, especially, if the mastery, will require their utmost strength in the grapple. But though he wins the field in the water, (with a Bull) yet he must share the Spoil on the shore; for he cannot (without the danger of drowning) swallow his Booty, through an impediment in his throat. Some of them (I have seen) six or seven yards long, but their usual stretch, may bate the half; And indeed, though they are fierce and ravenous, yet at the approach of a man, whilst they lie basking upon the Sands, they betake themselves, (though with no great haste) into the water; yet is it not very safe sleeping near the shore where they haunt, lest they take you napping. Yet can they not prejudice a child that is but aware of them: For their motion is very slow; neither can they turn the head, but the whole body must wheel for company. Dat Deus immiti cornua curta— There is as good Civet in the Cod of an old rammish Alligator, as in the Guinea Civet Cats. I shall not mention here the plenty of all sorts of Fish, and wild Fowl, as Guinea Hens, Ducks, wild Pigeons, etc. because these Collections shall take notice only of what is singular in this Island, without a Co partner, or any Parallel in any other Settlements of our Country men. But possibly amongst these Rarities some will expect I should (as the most welcome News) discover some Mines of Silver or Gold; as the most undoubted transcendency of a rich Land Scilicet uxorem cum dote, fidemque & amicos, Et Genus & formam, regina pecunia donat. Ac bene nummatum decorat suadela, Venusque. This Auri sacra fames of the Lyric, is usually the Grand Inquest; and without it other things seem to want their taste, or relish but unsavourly, especially to such an Epicurean as that was that charmed his senses with this Lullaby; Forbear your Stoic Rules, go read To bedrid Age; for I'll not heed Your peevish morals, till dull sense Despairs to have concupiscence. No, (whilst my spirits are young & good, Revelling in my frolic blood) Compared to me old Epicure, Shall be a Puritan demure, Each sense shall play the Parasite, To humour my coy Appetite, Till I (bidding all joys good-night) Prove the Nil ultra a of delight, For virtues only that attend A State not needy I commend; For on your beggar-virtues I Dote not (except integrity,) Such as is Patience per force, A virtue practised by my Horse. When him to th' Manger I do tie From meat, longed for with leering eye. And let humility be gone, When I have nought to be proud on. Rather than such poor virtues have, Some court rich vices, or a grave. Such is some men's profane Boulimy and insatiable Poludipsie after Gold, through the depravement of their canine and pical Appetites. — nec Terret ambustus Phacthon avaras spes. Hor. Neither heat nor cold can barricade the entratls and womb of the earth from the Caesarean Section, and debauched midwifery of the greedy Miners; which (as 'tis thought) would not in jamaica, prove labour in vain; for some Melottoes and Negroes, (that were lately Slaves to the Spaniards in this Isle) tell us, that their Masters did certainly know of two Silver Mines; yet are they not hitherto found by the English; whose scrutiny therein is not very prying and exact, the which, though astured, were no policy to divulge, till their numbers be increased, and their foot hold secured; Arguments, that persuaded the Spaniard to reclose and damn up a rich Silver Vein in a Mountain near the Sea, a few Leagues to the Norward of Cape St. Nicholas, at the west-end of Hispantola: not daring to present such a temptation to the Princes of Europe, till his Mines in Petozo, Peru, and new Spain be worn out; that his spare hands then may not only extract, but secure the Oar; a prize, which if now exposed to public notice) would create him many an unwelcome Rival, that would not be to seek of pretences enough, to further his suit: since our mother Earth doth indifferently prostrate her womb to the common embraces of any Ravisher, that hath Arms strong enough to secure him, in the Rape; the only Patent that the Spaniard can show for his Indie-Mines. Which himself very well knows, and is therefore very unwilling to dispute his Title, but where he can empanel an Army, instead of a jury to make good the Claim; the which he can hardly levy upon Hispaniola; it being so thinly peopled, that he can scarcely muster five hundred fight men, (in the whole Island) though he should put forth a general Press (enforced with the strictest Commission of Array;) except only in the Town of St. Domingo; which is distant above one hundred and fifty miles from the forementioned Mine; and are not able with all their skill and strength to root out a few Buckaneers or Hunting Frenchmen, that follow their Game, in despite of them, though they cannot number three hundred at a general Rendezvouse: and those dispersed at three hundred miles distance from one another, on the North and West sides of the Island; of whom peradventure I may have hereafter more occasion to discourse. Therefore it is not much material, whether or no, jamaica own any Silver Mines, though it be more than probable that time will discover some: Quicquid sub terra est, in apricum proferet aetas. For if there were but strength of hands in jamaica, they might procure money with less labour than digging: except the Spaniard will quietly suffer them to reap the Fruits of the Common Earth. For the propriety whereof he can show no Bill of Sale but his Sword. Thus much in General. I shall now give you a more particular Description of this Isle, with its Harbours, Towns, Ports, Soundings, exactly represented in this Map, to your view. WHerein the chiefe Harbour at Point Cagway merits Precedency, lying North-West from the said Point in an Arm of the Sea, that shoots in three or four Leagues within the Land. Where 1000 tall ships may safely ride at one time, and all sufficiently sheltered from winds and waves; and if they please, close aboard the shore, for an English mile in length, incomparably convenient for careening ships of all Burdens. Upon this Point or sandy Bay is now built above five hundred houses, by the English, chiefly for the accommodation of Seamen, especially the Privateers, who are their best Customers; and sometimes, as now it is, the Residence of the General, and some Merchants and Manufactures; whose shares to build upon is measured out to them by the Foot, and that immediately forfeited, if not forthwith improved by Buildings, which now almost cover the face of the Bay for a mile in length; the breadth thereof being variable, sometimes borrowing of the two Seas, in whose Arms it lies, and then repaying with unequal Interest; so that about a mile from the Harbour's mouth, it is almost Bankrupt. The Bank in that place not extending to above half a Cables length in breadth: where, if cut through from Sea to Sea, (which very little labour would effect.) This Isthmus would lose its name in an Island; And the Conversion conduce much to its security. For there is no landing upon the Southside of the Bay (which is washed and Butts upon the main Seas) by reason of the fury of the waves (not pacified by any Breakers,) even in the becalmest seasons. And the entrance into the Harbour is commanded with a Fort, built by the English: wherein there are at this day, some as good Canon planted, as the Tower of London would afford, yet the Bay, (or said Town) consisting on nothing but loose sand (in most places whereof you have water, in sinking but three or four foot) admits no sufficient defence in Teneable Bulworks, without the Tribute of foreign Materials; which are not far to seek. The worst is, their water, which is infected (by the intrusion of the Neighbour-seas) with a brackish taste; and therefore they make use of none but what is fetched three or four leagues in Boats and Canoves. Which inconvenience dissuaded the Spaniards from gracing it with so much as one house, seating themselves near a pleasant River, and by the side of a most lovely Savana, in the famous Town of St. Jago de la Vega. WHich was as well built, and as large as any Town in England; but now hast lost much of its pristine lustre, since the Landlords became English; for it did contain two thoufand Houses, and upwards, with sixteen Churches and Chappells, when it was first seized upon by the Army conducted by Gen. Venables; now there remains only the Skeletons of two Churches and an Abbey, with about five or six hundred Houses; some of which are yet very pleasant and habitable. This Town was first founded by Columbus, to whose happy search, the West-Indies first discovered itself; (all former Commerce and Traffic thither being till then adjourned beyond the Records of Time and Memory) burr now by him revived to Correspondency. He was the first Father and Godfather to this Town, giving it the name of St. jago de la Vega; which it reciprocally retorted to him in his, and his yet remaining Families Title of Honour) by the good pleasure of the King of Castille, created Duke de la Vega; famous in Spain, even to this day. Here is plenty of Cassta Ligrea, and Oranges of excellent relish in abundance, with some other choice Fruits, the Fruits of the Spanish Industry. The mentioned Savana that faces this Town is now pretty well stocked with Sheep, Goats, Cows, and especially tame Horses. But it did contain many thousands of each whilst the Spaniard owned it. The backside of the Town is washed with a fair, but unavigable River which buries itself in the Sea Passage-Fort. About twenty or thirty years ago, this Town was won by a little Fleet of English men, fitted out from the Chariby Islands, chiefly from Sr. Kits, under the Command of Gen. jackson, who landed about five hundred men at Passage-Fort, and fought his way up to the Town, against two thousand Spaniards, who still fled before him; but some what retarded his Carcer, by six or seven several Breast-works, cast up athwart the Road, on purpose to Bulwark this Town, (the Jewel of this Isle) from such Inroads and sudden surprisals: For the prevention whereof they kept continual watch upon a great Hill that overlooks the Sea, the Harbour, and the Town, from whence the Sentinels, in the twinkling of an eye by tokens agreed upon, signified the imminency of approaching dangers; As at this time when Gen. jackson made the Onset; the strength of the Isle being drawn up on the shore, before he could land his men; whom, though the Spaniards some what resisted, and at their several Brest-works caused them to make an unwilling Halt; yet the fury of Iackson's men, greedy of spoil, overcame all difficulties, neglecting dangers in comparison thereof: Thus with the loss of forty men, forcing to the Town, plundered it, to their no small enrichment. The booty likewise being advanced by a large Fine paid him by the Spaniard, on condition the Town might be preserved from burning; which was accordingly saved, and their retreat to the Fleet undisturbed. But when the swelling Armado with Gen. Venables, attempted this Town, (after their worse success against St. Domingo) they beat the bush so long, till the Bird was flown. For the subtle Spaniard, belaying our men with parleys, and fair words, in the interim dispatches away Bag and Baggage; sometimes sending Beefs to stay the stomaches of the hungry Soldiery; and bearing Gen. Venables, in hand with choice Viands; and Spanish Dainties presented to his Lady, who had more mind to eat then fight. Thus staving them off, till their Train and best Movables had got so much Law, that afterwards the swiftest pursuit could not give them a Turn, before they had got Covert in their Fastness, the Woods. And certainly, the treasure they carried with them could not but be very considerable if we may guests at the worth of the Jewel by the splendour of the Cabinet, that kept it: or estimate the largeness of the Bird by the Nest: the Town being then even to magnificence, adorned with spacious Houses. For the safeguard whereof the Spaniards never durst cope with our men in the plain field; yet would sometimes gawl them, when befriended with the treachery, that night and the Woods do afford; in which clandestine encounters, though at first the Spanish success was too fortunate; yet dear bought experience did in a little time train up our men in the same Mysteries: in which now they are grown so perfect, that they never ceased beating both Spaniard and Negro at their own Play, and with their own weapons, till they had cleared the Island of them; In despair now of Recovery (being so often refrustrated in their reattempts,) except by some invincible Armado, which yet will find work enough, ere they make the Island too hot for the English, now naturalised to the Country, and can never want shelter nor victuals whilst they have the Woods to befriend; with which now they are so well acquainted, that the Molottoes and Negroes, (which the Spaniards left behind them to keep possession of the Island, therein reckoning without their Host, presuming them unconquerable, and past finding out) are now so overmatched in their own Arts, that their Captain and the major part of them have submitted; thereby lessening their master's Title by eleven Points of the Law; and craving English protection; into which, they are upon submission received, by the truly Honourable General Dawley, and now authorised to prey upon, and hunt their fellows, that in scattered Parties yet stand it out, having already sealed their Allegiance with the blood of their old Associates, not without the dextrous contrivement of that Noble General, whose happy policy in the wary preservation of this Forlorn in jamaica, hath already without the suspicion of flattery, authorised the style. To whom our Nation, in some measures stands indebted for the Reprisal of that honour at Rio-Novo, which was so shamely lost under the debauched conduct of Gen. Venables in Hispaniola: the Spaniards till then having so mean and despicable thoughts of English courage, that upon the Onset at Rio-Novo they upbraided our men with the opprobrious mention of Sancta Domingo, till the repent assay of their valour, disciplined them into better manners. For though the numbers of the Spanish Forces at Rio-Novo doubled the English (being sent from Cuba to reinforce and resettle the Island) and those strongly entrenched; yet such was the enraged earnestness of the Soldiery to redeem their wounded Honours, that (regardless of all odds and disadvantages) they stormed them in their trenches with a resolution as undaunted as the success was prosperous. Hereby not only retriving the Pristine same of their Countrymen; but also hitherto frustrating all hopes in the Spaniards of further attempts to regain the Island. Another Party of Spaniards reseating themselves at Point-Pedro, being attended with a no less inauspicious fate. And the truth is, the Island, though it were less fruitful, is worth the fight for, thou it should cost the Spaniard some of his best blood; for it lies within his Bowels, and in the heart of his Trade. For all the treasure that his Plate-Fleet brings home from Carthagina steer directly for St. Domingo in Hispaniola, and from thence must pass by one of the ends of this Island to recover the Havana, The common rendezvouse of this whole Armado, before it returns home through the Gulf of Florida. Nor is there any other way (whereby to miss the Island of jamaica) because he cannot in any reasonable time turn it up to the Windward of Hispaniola; the which though he might with difficulty perform, yet he would thereby lose the security of his united forces, which at the Havana (from all the Parts of the Bay of Mexico, New-Spain, and the rich Merchandise that comes by Nombre de Dios, from the South Seas,) accompany each other home from the said general Rendezvouse. So that the Privateers from jamaica are often fingering the Plate, and other precious commodities, that was never consigned to them; by picking up their single and straggling Vessels before they are insured by their embodied Fleet. In which respects (as in many others) Necessity hath made a better choice of a seat for the English Dominions, than their intended surprisal of Hispaniola, though it had been achieved: And their win, (if the Game be followed) will unexpectedly outvie the stakes. And here I cannot but take notice of the many convenient Harbours, adjudged by the most experienced Mariners to equal the best that they ever came to Anchor in. For besides that already mentioned at Point Cagg way. There is another (nothing inferior) below it to Lee-ward at about four or five League's distance; and may as conveniently serve the Town of St. jago, as that other at Cagg-way; they being triangularly situated: It is usually known by the name of Old Harbour, where four hundred tall ships may ride together without danger of falling foul upon one another. And about fourteen Leagues to Wind-ward, is another safe Port called by the Spaniards Porto Morant, which yet retains the name. In the Confines whereof a Regiment is seated; who with many other Planters, have now made themselves considerable in the Produce of Sugar, Tobacco, Cotton, etc. But it is besides my scope to mention every Harbour on this and the North side of the Isle, lest this Volume extend beyond the compendious Dimensions of Journal Notes; calculated only for those that are most remarkable, especially since the fore-inserted Plate may satisfy a more critical enquiry; and be sufficiently Authenrick to confute those traditional Heterodoxes, that some * Amer. desc. p. ult. 1655. men's rashness hath published to the contrary upon bare report. But I shall adjourn a more plenary discovery to these ensuing Animadversions. REFLECTIONS Upon the present Affairs of JAMAICA; And the Expedition against HISPANIOLA: Under the Conduct of GENERAL VENNABLES. 1. THat Bulky Armadas are many times sunk with their own weight; which, if parcell'd out into seasonable Recruits, had signified more by each Retail, than the prodigal waste of such wholesale Adventures. The Dimensions of this great Preparation vastly exceeding the difficulties that could encounter them, from all the united Forces in Hispaniola: and fitted out with strengths sufficient to make Prize of the whole Spanish Plate-Fleet, rather than the sacking of a small Town, or an unpeopled Land, such as is St. Domingo, and Hispantola; who at the first brunt left this town to the Ransack of Gen. Iackson's men; though timely Alarmed by Iackson's Demur, at the Harbour's mouth, for four day's space; and then not able to land above five hundred men. A thousand English Soldiers being now an over-match to all the power, that the Spaniards in Hispaniola, can bring into the field; unable at this day to serrit out a new French Buckaneers, or Hunting Marownaes', formerly mentioned; who live by killing the wild Beefs for their Hides; and might grow rich by the Trade, did not their lavish Rioting in expense (at the neighbour- Tortudoes) exceed the hardship of their Incomes. Their comfort is, they can never be broke whilst they have a Dog and a Gun; both which, are more industriously tended then themselves. These Acteon-straglers (that seldom number above five or six in a company) are often affronted with the Spanish Rounds (consisting of about one hundred Firelocks) that once a year compass the Island, yet dare they never cope with these resolute Champions, & wand'ring Knights; who, setting back to back, would make sure to sell their lives at a double rate, and in that posture bid defiance to the Enemy. The Grave Signior scorning to barter a drop of Poenish blood in exchange for an Ocean of such Rascal- Gaul. And I am very confident that the small Remnant left in jamaica (knowing how to victual their Camps with what the Woods afford) will be able to disarray the Spaniards in Hispaniola or Cuba, (even to admiration,) and above what the most favouring presage can expect or Autumn. And certainly this Foothold (yet secured, maugre the Spanish craft and power,) foiled twice by them in their reattempts doth open so fair a passage into the Indies; that if His sacred Majesty, our most excellent Prince do not in mercy balk the Spaniard; a few years will immortalize Him one of the greatest Emperors of the World: being happy, and not only in an invincible Navy, but in the Dominion of Northern Kingdoms, that are therefore so fruitful, that they store him with more men than Room: who are soon likely to leave justling when they are parted with more elbow-room: The very Division of that united Abraham and Lot, who by too near correspondence fell together by the ears. Thus too nigh neighbourhood begets contentions, whilst distance and absence usually enhanceth the affections of near friends. Reflex. II. 2. THat sudden surprises from an Ambuscade, usually prevails more than open force. The whole strength of Hispaniola, though embodied and in view, not being able to strike that terror, and make such havoc of our amazed Soldiers, as forty or fifty Negroes and Molettoes effected by an unlooked for onset. Gaining more by this juggling delusion than their whole Army could by Play above-board. The Spaniards (like Hannibal) obtaining conquest with their heads rather than their hands. Nor are they so usually foiled, as when encountered with their own weapons: a wary plodding Fabius signifying more than a hot Spur Marcellus. To which squint-eyed Mode in war Scanderbag stands indebted for most of his Victories against the Ottomanes; as also joshua, though backed with a Divine reserve, for the defeat of Aj. Thus also do the Native Indians encounter their adverse Nations, rather stealing upon them, than assailing them; especially, practised by the Meridional, and more oriental Americans; whose diminutive statures call for the assistance of wily stratagems; neglected by the more Northerly and armstrong Regions, whose Character, (according to mine own knowledge and experience) especially of those Guiana and Char●by Indians, that cohabit with the English in Surinam, I deem not much extravagant here to insert. Under the Line that equal's night and day Guiana stands, part of America: On whose head Phoebus shoots his fiery steams, Twice every year, with down right darted beams. In his Twelve Houses, as he travels forth Alongst the Zodiac, 'twixt the South and North. Whose Native Indian hath not, nor needs Art To cloth himself, Nature supplies that Part. They're true Philosophers, not much they have, Nor do they want much, nor much do they crave. They care not for to morrow; no supply, But just from hand to mouth, no Granary: If they want Flesh, they take their bow in hand. And then for Hare or Deer, hunt o'er the Land. For all Game here most easily taken be, Since they take Covert in some hollow tree. Or some such crazy Refuge, whence they are Digged forth at leisure for the Hunter's fare. Or if the stomach do in Fish delight, With wily feats he gluts his appetite. His bread & drink both made of one root are, Cassawder called, cooked by the Woman's care; Who show their best of duty to their Home, When their Mates wearied with their Booties come. For every man in's house is Lord and King, Hath power of Life and Death, and every thing: His will's his law, from him there's no appeal, No other Monarchy or Commonweal. If Wives and children offenders are, His will's the Judge; hand, Executioner: To none but to their Chief, they Homage owe, That's th' Eldest Son, when married, t' him they bow, His Father, Mother, Brethren, Nephews, all; Must lower to him, and on the knee must fall: Till his first Son be married, than he (Deposed) must to his own Son bend the knee. Thus do they live by families, thus then They're always governed by middle-aged men. When any dies, into his Urn is hurled All that he hath; (to use; i'th' other world:) His Axe, Bill, Knife, his Bow and Hammock too, And this the best of service they can do For their dead Friend. If he a Captain be, Then if he have a Slave, he then must die; And the same Rogue burn both; thus is supplied Each one i'th' other world, as before he died. But usually their Slaves, when captive ta'en, Are to the English sold; and some are slain, And their Flesh forthwith Barbacued and eat By them, their Wives and Children as choice meat. Thence are they called Caribs, or Cannibals; The very same that we Man-eaters call. And yet herein lies not their chief content To eat for food, but as a Sacrament; To bind them and their Children to be fierce, And into th' entrails of their foes to pierce. Though in the world no greater Cowards be, Managing all their Fights with treachery, Most of their feats by stealth and night are done, If once it come to handy-gripes they run. Thus much I'll say; I would not wish to have A better friend, or foe, or better slave Than is an Indian; where he once affects, In love and service shall be no neglects. Command him as your slave, his life, his All, If he do once you but Bone-aree call; And who would wish an easier foe than he, That (like a Buck) at noise of Guns will fly, But then your slave if that an Indian be, No other Caterer you need but he. He plenty shall provide for yours and you, With his Dogs only, and his Bill and Bow And thus much for their Men. Their Women are Lovely, though brown; modest, hiding their Ware, With several coloured Beads together knit, With Art methodical together set; And this they use whilst they are young and fair, But when they're old, their heedless, all is bare. If of your Wine and Brandee, you'll be free, They'll not leave till they drunk as beggars be. They call the Devil Yerkin, him alone They worship, saying, God wills harm to none, But is entirely good; and therefore they, The mercy of their Yerkin only pray. When they are sick, Yerkin doth bear the blame, Of him they beg deliverance from the same, The Muses and their Flamens they cashier, Only Diana's Troops are 'stablish'd here, Except some Priests, which they do call Peei, With mumbling charms Yerkin to pacify. (In sum to say) they're all simplicity, Almost like Adam, in's innocency. Whatever Nature or their Appetite Does dictate, they do follow with delight; Not once with conscience check embittered, Being by the law of Nature only led. Not coveting large Barns, with hoards to stuff, When once their belly's full, they have enough; For Avarice, here never makes them jar, Nor warrants, by religion's varnish, war. His pride so natural, (if't be a vice,) Yet costs him nothing, or but little Price; It never makes him sell his land, nor shut Shop-windows up, nor a spare Jewel put To trouble, in a Pawn for Cloak or Gown. His only pride's a Feather on his Crown: The cast-clotheses of some gaudy Bird fits him. For which he needs not venture life nor limb, Nor Hector it, nor list under Sir Hugh, (When known by the old suit, to fish for new;) Nor cringe to Velvet Titles, with a gape, Like fawning Cur, or mopping Jackanapes: Nor need to be light fingered in a crowd; Nor light heeled to procure a Scarf or Hood, Nor with stretched Fancies beg a Lady's smile, Which she (poor soul) scarce understands the while, They make no mintage here of Brains, nor be The sterling Pence coined with a Comedy. For pomp and fine clothes only are the cause Of all our shirking Trades, and endless laws. Since Nature ne'er brought forth a Creature yet, Unfurnished, with what Coverlets were fit. The Back (if not misused) in coldest Land, Craving no waste clothes, more than face or hands. But this Diversion is somewhat out of our way to jamaica. Reflex. III. 3. THough in multitude of Counsellors there is safety, yet multitude of Commanders equally sharing in power, are usually attended with confusion. And therefore though the wary Romans invested their Confuls with equal Authority, (lest the unmated Interest of a single General should by happy Victories win so much upon the affections of his concerned Followers, as to infringe the Liberties, with which they hugged themselves in their Aristocracy;) yet the Consuls commanded by turns, by intermitting days; and very seldom in one and the same Province; Counter to the Instructions in this Expedition, which obliged the General to act nothing without the joint consent of Gown-Commissioners, for that purpose constituted. Which, though it pleads somewhat in Apology for General Vennables, yet nevertheless it raseth out this Model from the more Genuine Maxims of Policy; as invented only by the jealousies of Tyrants and Usurpers; but found useless and prejudicial to more justly installed Princes; whose undisputed Titles need not the brokeage of such shifting and by-way stratagems to ensure their Negotiations. Reflex. IV. 4. THat Soldier's wives are more properly seated in their husband's Kitchen, than his Tent. General Vennable's Lady being not unjustly blamed, both for his sluggish and listlesse Proceedings, as also, for his unlicens'd and immature Return, furthered, if not procured by her too opportune Inculcations. A Dalliance of so sad a consequence to the English Nation, that zeal to my native Country whets my passions to so Satirical an edge, that I can scarce forbear, here to lash out, against her whole Sex, did not the Virtues of some others interceded. However I must have a touch at the Martyred State, that warrants such unseasonable Companions for the Wars; wisely prevented by the Turks in their Eunuches-general. The best on't is I am not awed (thanks to my fates) with the dreadful Catechism of a Curtain Lecture. I cannot think on wretched Cleopatra, But she doth move my spleen, and Bilis atra: Who caused silly Mark Anthony to smart; Losing his head, when he gave her his heart. He first embraced the Serpent in his arm, But she, long after; both, with equal harm. How call you those who fooled old Solomon; And shameless put the Royal Breeches on? What can secure us from the Petticoat? When wit, nor Samson's strength can save the throat? If Pins and Laces Emperors enthral, Wonder not at a puny General. But if you must wed; see some charm you get, Inclose i'th' wedding-Ring an Amulet: Nothing can be too safe; we thunder fear, A toy to th' Curtain-whisper in the car. Thus Socrates cursed Zeno, (when in strife, Vying for curses, wished, he had a Wife. Thus the grave Judge in rigour did decree, To him that had two Wives, He should have three. (As the Monk shrived the Drunkard) for his pain, Ordaining that he should be drunk again.) If Expiations merit, none's more meet. Then to do Penance in the Nuptial sheet: For sure they need not Purgatory fear Hereafter, that (poor souls) endure it here. There's no such joy in this betwined State then, If any, th' women get it, not the men. Though I must say, those pretty sweetmeats please Sometime; But to cloyed stomaches a Disease. Such is the Nuptial Surfeit, a mere Glut, Like loathed Baggage to the nauseous Gut. Enough is better than a feast, each one, After a fast does fall the keener on; But to lie wallowing in Cates, though rare, Fie on't, what is it but a hoggish fare? If then at best no better Cheer you meet, How doth he far that's lodged i' th' loathed Sheet? If the most stately Prisons cannot please, What shall we find i' th' Jakes and Little-ease? Is there no Paradise in Cherry-cheek, What a plague is that then, that's as green as Leek? If that your pretty Maids be things, but filly, (Compared by ancient Bards, to Rose and Lily) Then sure, that look must needs be out of date, Bedaubed (like ulcers) with Precipitate. If Females, at the best, but pester men, He's Matched, that hath a Leagure-Lady then. But I'll forbid no Banes; nor rouse the Nest Of little angry Wasps: I'm but in jest; Though, whilst some read these lines, their Wives in view, They'll whisper to themselves, and say, they're true. For by your leave, with Venus though you're matched, There is no doubt but you are Coneycatched. But such poor men, as this General Vennables, (that are thus o're-mated) works my pity rather than scorn, moving my bowels more than my spleen; for though the Kingdom was the loser, he is none of the gainers, and the thraldom of his sheets outvies the Halter; furnishing us with this conclusion, That he's unfit to be Pater Patriae that is not Domt Dominus; nor to head an Army, that must kneel at his own Fire side; nor to ride Admiral of a Fleet, that cannot carry the Flag at home, but is forced to lower his Top sail, to a Petty coat. In defiance whereof, I have here, with their own worded weapon, taken up the Gauntlet, to my no little hazard of a scolding: though if they knew the respect and honour I have for the worthy thy Ladies; (as those that knows me, know I am no woman hater,) nor in this relation any thing of kin to the Noble Blake, the nicest coins would easily vouchsafe me an Act of Grace. All my quarrel with their Sex consisting only in the defence of those poor men that stand in need of Abasuerus his Decree. Reflex. V. 5. THat the most promising designs, though launched out and promoted with all the appertinent utensils, that policy can contrive; are many times easily defeated by uncalculated Accidents: sometimes a mistaken letter, in the sound of a word, hath rooted great Armadas: and the whistling of the wind in the Sicamour trees destroyed an Host. Thus Gideon founded the Midianites with the sudden surprisal of Trumpets, Lamps, and broken Pitchers. * Caes. Com. de bell. Gallic. The very looks of the Germans affrighted the Gauls; And the very flashes in the besmeared faces of the Picts, did gall the Saxons. Thus did the hellish visage of the grim Negroes and Molettoes beyond all imagination at the first assault nonplus our men at Hispaniola; which yet had not signified so much, if it had not been seconded with the unhappy Conduct of Gen. Venables; whose crazy management of affairs shared so sinister an influence to his better deserving Followers. The Indulgent Heavens till now, suspending the Award of any Damages to the English Nation, in repair of the loss of that invincible Armado in Eighty Eight. Reflex. VI 6. THat Necessity often trains up a Militia better than Plenty. For had not the Belly been Magister artis, putting the Soldiers to their shifts, to silence its importunities, they had never proved so good Marks-men, nor had come so familiarly acquainted with the Woods: whose skill therein hath now stood them in so good stead, for the stubbing up those Spanish Negroes, that till then lay as thorns in their sides, that they could scarce stir abroad without being pricked. Thus the Alps proved less fatal to Hannibal's Army, than Capua; and hunger & cold spurred and egged on the weatherbeaten Goths and Vandals to better their Sun, till they did Lord it in France and Italy. This only inconvenience attended the Soldiery of jamaica, that finding their legs, and able to stand by themselves without the assistance of a Providore, they became more refractory, and headstrong, and of a less bounded discipline: acknowledging but small Homage where they received so small Pay; which did the rather subject them to mutiny, and easy to be wrought upon by more working Pates. Nor did this licentiousness long want the misimproved subtlety of a Gentleman, one Lieut. Col. Raymond, a discontented Soldier, that wanted nothing but a better Employ, to set out his vast Parts: and had he not encountered with a General, that is cunning enough, and proved himself at all Machievilltan assays, his Match; he had certainly reduced the Forces in jamaica, into a self-destroying Flame; especially now their discontents had heated them to so (tinder-like) a touchiness, that they were ready to take fire on all occasions. Nor were these Incendiaries to seek of all plausible Pretexts that witty usurpation doth use to colour and gild blacker Designs. But what the aims of Lieut. Col. Raymond were are not easily to be discovered; but it is more than presumed, that his want of employment: (having never had any Charge in jamaica) though not uncapable of the greatest, that this Isle could afford) made him (unable to bear Neglects) thus over busy; and too too active in moulding poor Lieut. Col. Tison to what shape he pleased; his Heart being better than his Head, and his Armoury better blazoned with the Dove than the Serpent; and I am very confident did not foresee the evil and danger that those lawless Bandying do incur, which Relation may admit the more credit in that I am altogether unconcerned in either Party, and neither prejudiced nor biased with Partiality. Nor were those fickle-headed Soldiers so soon invited to rise in Arms with them, but they sooner deserted them: leaving them to the Mercy of their Opponents Court-Mashalls, who presently doomed them, to be shot to death. Lieut. Col. Tison died with some reluctancy and regret; but Lieut. Col. Raymond, like himself; with an undismayed Resolution answerable to his wont Magnanimity on whose Interment a busy Wit threw this Epitaph. AT thy Nativity the Heaven's have worn Such visage as when Catiline was born. Your Significators sure must be th' same, And Aspects; since you differ but in name. His vaster soul Rome 's walls could not confine, Thine deigned no Pere, scarce that of Catiline. His stile longwinded Tully 's did surpass, And thine so ravishing, too persuasive was. He knew no fear, scarce of his own deemed Gods, Oh that in this, of thee he'd had the odds! His soul, engrossed th' Monopoly of Arts, And thy Orphaean skill could ravish Hearts. His to w'ring Genius could not bend the knee, And thine was fitter for a Throne then thee. The King of Terrors could not him affright, And thou didst seem to court eternal might. Not un bewailed was his Catastrophe, And even thine enemies lamented thee. He lives (though not entombed) by'is famous facts, Thy Grave, scarce known; but, well enough thine Acts. Reflex. VII. 7. THat though Infant-Settlements, like Infant-years, are usually most fatal; yet their Blossoms once Set, are not so easily Blasted. Happily experimented in jamaica, whose Blooming hopes now thrive so well, and their Stocks so well Rooted, that they are not easily Routed. The Major part of the Inhabitants being old West-Indians, who now Naturalised to the Country, grow the better by their Transplantation, and flourish in health equivalently comparable to that of their Mother-Sotl. For which I need not beg credit, since there is no Country Disease (as at Virginia and Surinam) endemically raging throughout the Isle; nor any new and unheard of distempers that want a name. So that a wise man needs no other Physic there but his Temperance, scarcely craving Hospital assistance so much as we in England, nor have any more reason to deify an Aesculapius. And therefore we consult our fears, rather than the dangers, when the very name of Travel into Foreign Parts, doth so much affright us, especially into so serene an Air as breaths in jamaica, that owns nothing but its distance to dismay us from its visit; The Indies being no such Bugbear as they are (usually portrayed. In vindication therefore, For Travel, take this APOLOGY. PRithee, persuade me not, my Dear, You do mistake my Fates, I fear. My Glass will run no sooner out, Though I do range the World about. Could my stay here, bribe a delay, From the pale Sisters, I would stay. But 'tis too true (though't be a Fable) The Sisters are Inexorable; And are as nimble with their Knife To those that lead a Homebred life. Brave Raleigh found (too soon) a Tomb! Not in the Indies, but at home. The Destinies did Drake forbear In the Antipodes, not here; And do, like Ladies coy, neglect Those most, that Court them with respect. But will Embraces beg & pray Of those that are as niceas they. Or, if the froward Stars dispense With their Malignant influence, Adjourning Plagues they use to bring, In peccant Autumns, or the Spring: Yet a Consumption, or the Gout, In Chimney-corner finds us out: Or, (what is worse) old drivelling Age, With all its loathed Equipage, Arrests us, till we have unsaid The Prayers which we for long life made; Yet, they're forced soon to recant, That fruits of youthful Travel want: For knowledge only doth commend Old Age; whilst listening Nephews'tend With greedy ears to catch up all Old stories, Grandsires' does let fall; (Thus shortening long Winter's Night) This paliiates Age with some delight, For when the cold Palsy doth seize On other members, Tongues at ease. And is the old man's Commendamus, Which without Travel is less famous. Nay damned Exile in this was blest, Of Kings, it has made ours the best: Thus Ioseph's brethren's (meant) Abuse Raised him, the Honour of his House. Aeneas thus enhanced his fame, From Trojan to the Roman Name. Reflex. VIII. 8. THat an Army once cowed, especially in their first foreign attempt, seldom bound their fear till it become altogether Panic: like that Punic amaze that epidemically invaded Carthage, after the first defeat of Hannibal by the more thriving Genius of Scipio Africanus. This is certain, that after the first check given to our Forces by the Negroes and Molettoes in Hispaniola; The very mention of their coming, (though bruited but for experiment) caused some to hasten their march, beyond the pace of gravity and valour. Though after Trials approved them to be English men, rather than Normans, daring, to Rally defeated Courage. The truth whereof many an Aethiope hath now unwillingly asserted by the lavish expense of his sooty blood. And here I intended to publish some Essays touching the future Settlement of jamaica, which now are upon second thoughts condemned to privacy. FINIS.