University of Virginia Library

XXII. "His Majesty's Councell for Virginia." A Proclamation
Giving License to Any Who Are in Virginia, to Return Home[90]
1616/17

By his Majesties Councell for Virginia.

Whereas upon the returne of Sir Thomas Dale Knight, (Marshall of
Virginia) the Treasurer, Councell and Company of the same, have been
throughly informed and assured of the good estat of that Colony, and
how by the blessing of God and good government, there is great plentie
and increase of Corne, Cattell, Goates, Swine, and such other provisions,
necessary for the life and sustenance of man; And that there wants nothing
for the setling of that Christian Plantation, but more hands to gather and
returne those commodities which may bring profit to the Adventurers,
and encouragement to others: And whereas thereupon the Company hath
given a commission to Captaine Samuel Argol to be the present Governour
of that Colonie, who hath undertaken to transport and carry thither a
certain number of men, upon his owne charge, and the charge of other
his friends that joyne him in that Voyage; in which divers men of good
qualitie have resolved to adventure, and to goe thither themselves in

person, and to carry with them their wives, their children and their families,
whereby in short time (by the favor and assistance of Almighty God) that
goode worke may be brought to good perfection, by the division and
setting out of lands to every particular person, the settling of trade, and
returne of Commodities to the contentment and satisfaction of all Well
affected Subjects, which eyther love the advancement of Religion, or the
honour and welfare of this kingdome: Wee his Majesties Treasurer,
Councell and Company for the same Plantation, have thought good to
declare and make knowne to all men by these presents, that wee have
resolved to give free leave and license to any who are now remaining in
Virginia, at his will and pleasure to returne home into England, which
liberty wee doe likewise grant and confirme unto all those which hereafter
from time to time shall go thither in person, without any other restraint,
there to aske leave of the Governour (for the time being) to depart. And
therefore if any man be disposed to send for any of his friends from thence,
he may hereby take notice, that he hath full power and meanes to doe
eyther of them at his good descretion.

God save the King.