36. The Wedding of Pocahontas[143]
BY RAPHE HAMOR (1613-1614)
Two of Powhatan's sons came to us who were very
desirous to see their sister, there present on the shore with
us. They rejoiced greatly at the sight of Pocahontas and at
her well-being, for they had suspected that she would be
badly treated, although they had often heard the contrary.
They promised that they would persuade their father to
redeem her and to conclude a firm peace forever with us.
Upon this resolution the two brothers went on board our
boat with us.
We had already despatched two Englishmen, Master John
Rolfe and Master Sparkes to acquaint their father with the
business in hand. The next day these men returned saying
that they had not been admitted to Powhatan's presence; but
they had spoken with his brother Apachamo, his successor,
who had already the command of all the people; and
promised his best endeavors to further our just request.
It was then April and the time of year called us to our
business at home, to prepare ground and to plant corn for
our winter's provisions; so we departed upon these terms,
giving the Indians respite till harvest, to decide what was
best for them to do. We told them clearly that if a final
agreement were not made between us before that time, we
should return again and destroy or take away all their corn,
burn all the houses upon that river, leave not a fishing weir
standing nor a canoe in any creek thereabouts, and kill as
many of them as we could.
Long before this time, a gentleman of approved
behavior and honest carriage, Master John Rolfe fell in love with
Pocahontas and she with him. Of this fact I made Sir Thomas Dale aware
by a letter from Master John Rolfe, even while we were conferring and
making conditions with Powhatan's men In the letter Rolfe begged Dale's
advice and assistance in his love, if it seemed to him for the good of
the Plantation.
[144] Pocahontas herself told
her brothers about it. Sir Thomas Dale's approval of the match was the
only reason why he was so mild amongst Powhatan's people. Otherwise he
would not have departed from their river, without other conditions.
The rumor of this intended marriage soon came to
Powhatan's knowledge and was acceptable to him, as
appeared by his sudden consent thereto. Some ten days after
he sent an old uncle of hers, named Opachisco, to give her
away in the church as his deputy, and two of his sons to see
the marriage solemnized. This was done about the fifth of
April, and ever since then we have had friendly relations not
only with Powhatan himself, but also with his subjects round
about us; so that now I see no reason why the colony should
not thrive apace.
[[143]]
Continuation of the previous story.
[[144]]
The Jamestown settlement was commonly spoken of as
the Plantation.
