Bucaniers of America: or, A true account of the most remarkable assaults committed of late years upon the coasts of the West-Indies, by the bucaniers of Jamaica and Tortuga, both English and French. Wherein are contained more especially, the unparallel'd exploits of Sir Henry Morgan, our English Jamaican hero, who sack'd Puerto Velo, burnt Panama, &c. |
 | I. |
 | II. | BUCANIERS
OF
AMERICA. PART II. |
| I. |
| II. |
| III. |
| IV. |
| V. |
| VI. |
| VII. |
| III. |
 | Bucaniers of America: |  |
1
II. BUCANIERS
OF
AMERICA.
II. PART II.
Chap. I.
Origine of Francis Lolonois, and beginning
of his Robberies.
FRancis Lolonois was Native of that Territo-
ry in France, which is called Les Sables d'
Olone, or the Sands of Olone. In his Youth
he was transported unto the Caribby Islands, in
quality of a Servant or Slave, according to the
custom of France and other Countries; of which
we have already spoken in the first part of this
Book. Being out of his time, when he had obtained
his Freedom, he came unto the Isle of Hispaniola.
Here he placed himself for some while
among the Hunters, before he began his Robberies
against the Spaniards; whereof I shall make
mention at present, until his unfortunate Death.
2
At first he made two or three Voyages in quality
of a common Mariner; wherein he behaved
himself so couragiously, as to deserve the favour
and esteem of the Governour of Tortuga,
who was then Monsieur de la Place. Insomuch,
that this Gentleman gave him a Ship, and made
him Captain thereof, to the intent he might seek
his fortune. This Dame shewed herself very favourable
unto him at the beginning: for in a
short while he purchased great Riches. But
withal, his Cruelties against the Spaniards were
such, as that the very fame of them made him
known through the whole Indies. For which
reason the Spaniards, in his time, whensoever
they were attacked by Sea, would chuse rather to
die or sink fighting, than surrender; as knowing
they should have no Mercy nor Quarter at his
hands. But as Fortune is seldom constant, so
after some time, she turned her back unto him.
The beginning of whose Disasters was, that in a
huge Storm he lost his Ship upon the Coasts of
Campeche. The men were all saved; but coming
upon dry Land, the Spaniards pursued them,
and killed the greatest part, wounding also Lolonois
their Captain. Not knowing how to escape,
he thought to save his life by a Stratagem.
Hereupon he took several handfuls of Sand and
mingled them with the Bloud of his own Wounds,
with which he besmeared his face and other parts
3
the Dead, he continued there till the Spaniards
had quitted the Field.
After they were gone, he retired into the
could. These being by the help of Nature pretty
well healed, he took his way to the City of
Campeche, having perfectly disguised himself in
Spanish Habit. Here he spoke with certain
Slaves, unto whom he promised their liberty, in
case they would obey him, and trust in his Conduct.
They accepted his Promises, and stealing
one night a Canow from one of their Masters,
they went to Sea with the Pyrat. The Spaniards
in the mean while had made Prisoners several of
his Companions, whom they kept in close Dungeons
in the City, while Lolonois went about the
Town and saw all that passed. These were often
asked by the Spaniards, What is become of
your Captain? Unto whom they constantly answered,
He was dead. With which news the
Spaniards were hugely gladded, and made great
demonstrations of joy, kindling Bonfires, and, as
them that knew nothing to the contrary, giving
thanks to God Almighty for their deliverance
from such a cruel Pyrat. Lolonois having seen
these Joys for his death, made haste to escape
with the Slaves above-mentioned, and came safe
to Tortuga, the common place of Refuge of all
4
of all manner of Pyrats and Thieves. Though
now his Fortune was but low, yet he failed not
of means to get another Ship; which with Craft
and Subtilty he obtained, and in it one and twenty
persons. Being well provided with Arms and
other necessaries, he set forth towards the Isle of
Cuba, on the South-side whereof lieth a small Village
which is called de los Cayos. The Inhabitants
of this Town drive a great Trade in Tobacco,
Sugar, and Hides; and all in Boats, as not
being able to make use of Ships, by reason of the
little depth of that Sea.
Lolonois was greatly perswaded he should get
here some considerable Prey; but by the good
fortune of some Fishermen who saw him, and
the mercy of the Almighty, they escaped his tyrannical
hands. For the Inhabitants of the Town
of Cayos dispatched immediately a Messenger over
Land unto the Havana, complaining unto the
Governour that Lolonois was come to destroy
them, with two Canows. The Governour could
very hardly be perswaded unto the truth of this
story, seeing he had received Letters from Campeche
that he was dead. Notwithstanding, at the
importunity of the Petitioners he sent a Ship to
their relief, with ten Guns, and fourscore and ten
Persons well armed; giving them withal this express
Command: They should not return unto his
5
Unto this effect he gave them also a Negro,
who might serve them for a Hangman; his Orders
being such, as They should immediately hang
every one of the said Pirats, excepting Lolonois
their Captain, whom they should bring alive unto
the Havana. This Ship arrived at Cayos; of
whose coming the Pirats were advertised beforehand;
and instead of flying, went to seek the
said Vessel in the River Estera, where she rid at
Anchor. The Pirats apprehended some Fishermen,
and forced them, by night, to shew the entry
of the Port, hoping soon to obtain a greater
Vessel than their two Canows, & thereby to mend
their Fortune. They arrived, after two of the
clock in the morning, very nigh unto the Ship. And
the Watch on board the Ship asking them From
whence they came, and if they had seen any Pirats
abroad? They caused one of the Prisoners to answer,
They had seen no Pirats, nor any thing else.
Which answer brought them into perswasion
that they were fled away, having heard of their
coming.
But they experimented very soon the contrary:
For about break of day the Pirats began to
assault the Vessel on both sides with their two
Canows. This Attaque they performed with
such vigour, that although the Spaniards behaved
themselves as they ought, and made as good defence
6
some great Guns; yet they were forced to
surrender, after being beaten by the Pirats, with
Swords in hands, down under the Hatches. From
hence Lolonois commanded them to be brought
up one by one, and in this order caused their
heads to be struck off. Among the rest, came
up the Negro, designed to be the Pirats Executioner
by the Governor of Havana. This Fellow
implored mercy at his hands very dolefully, desiring
not to be killed, and telling Lolonois he was
constituted Hangman of that Ship; and that in
case he would spare him, he would tell him faithfully
all that he should desire to know. Lolonois
made him confess as many things as he thought fit
to ask him; and having done, commanded him to
be murthered with the rest. Thus he cruelly and
barbarously put them all to death, reserving of
the whole number onely one alive; whom he
sent back unto the Governour of Havana, with
this Message given him in writing: I shall never
henceforward give Quarter unto any Spaniard whatsoever:
And I have great hopes I shall execute
on your own person the very same punishment I
have done upon them you sent against me. Thus I
have retaliated the kindness you designed unto me and
my Companions. The Governour was much troubled
to understand these sad and, withal, insolent
News; which occasioned him to swear, in
7
Quarter unto any Pirat that should fall into
his hands. But the Citizens of the Havana desired
him not to persist in the execution of that
rash and rigorous Oath, Seeing the Pirats would
certainly take occasion from thence to do the same;
and they had an hundred times more opportunity of
Revenge than he: That being necessitated to get
their Livelihood by Fishery, they should hereafter
always be in danger of losing their lives. By these
Reasons he was perswaded to bridle his Anger,
and remit the severity of his Oath aforementioned.
Now Lolonois had got himself a good Ship, but
withal very few Provisions and People in it. Hereupon,
to purchase both the one and the other, he resolved
to use his customary means of cruzing from
one Port to another. Thus he did for some while,
till at last not being able to purchase any thing,
he determined to go unto the Port of Maracaibo.
Here he took, by surprize, a Ship that was laden
with Plate and other Merchandize, being outward
bound to buy Cacao-nuts. With these Prizes he
returned unto Tortuga; where he was received
with no small Joy by the Inhabitants, they congratulating
his happy Success, and their own private
Interest. He continued not long there, but
pitched upon new designes, of equipping a whole
Fleet sufficient to transport five hundred men,
8
he resolved to go unto the Spanish Dominions,
and pillage both Cities, Towns, and Villages;
and finally, take Maracaibo it self. For
this purpose, he knew the Island of Tortuga would
afford him many resolute and couragious men,
very fit for such Enterprizes. Besides, that he
had in his service several Prisoners who exactly
were acquainted with the ways and places he designed
upon.
Chap. II.
Lolonois equippeth a Fleet, to land upon
the Spanish slands of America, with
intent to rob, sack, and burn whatever
he met.
OF this his designe Lolonois gave notice unto
all the Pirats, who at that conjuncture of
time were either at home or abroad. By which
means he got together, in a little while above 400
men. Besides which, there was at that present in the
Michael de Basco. This man by his Piracy had
gotten Riches sufficient to live at ease, and go no
more abroad to Sea; having withal the Office of
9
that Lolonois made for this Expedition, he
entred into a streight League of Friendship with
him, and proffered unto him, that in case he
would make him his chief Captain by Land (seeing
he knew the Country very well, and all its
Avenues) he would take part in his Fortunes,
and go along with him. They both agreed upon
Articles, with great joy of Lolonois, as knowing
that Basco had performed great Actions in Europe,
and had gained the repute of a good Souldier.
He gave him therefore the Command he
desired, and the Conduct of all his People by
Land. Thus they all embarqued in eight Vessels;
that of Lolonois being the greatest, as having
ten Guns of indifferent carriage.
All things being in a readiness, and the whole
the end of April, having a considerable number of
men for those parts, that is in all, six hundred and
threescore persons. They directed their course
towards that part which is called Bayala, scituated
on the North-side of the Island of Hispaniola.
Here they also took into their company a
certain number of French Hunters, who voluntarily
offered themselves to go along with them.
And here likewise they provided themselvs with
Victuals and other Necessaries for that Voyage.
10
From hence they set sail again the last day of
July, and steered directly towards the Eastern
Cape of the Isle, called Punta de Espada. Hereabouts
they suddenly espied a Ship that was coming
from Puerto Rico, and bound for New Spain,
being laden with Cacao-nuts. Lolonois, the Admiral,
presently commanded the rest of the Fleet
they should wait for him nigh unto the Isle of
Savona, scituate on the Eastern side of Cape Punta
de Espada, forasmuch as he alone intended to
go and take the said Vessel. The Spaniards, although
they had been in sight now full two hours,
and knew them to be Pirats, yet would they not
flie, but rather prepared to fight; as being well
armed, and provided of all things necessary thereunto.
Thus the Combat began between Lolonois
and the Spanish Vessel, which lasted three
hours; and these being past, they surrendred unto
him. This Ship was mounted with sixteen
Guns, and had fifty fighting men on board. They
found in her One hundred and twenty thousand
weight of Cacao, forty thousand Pieces of Eight, and
the value of ten thousand more in Jewels. Lolonois
sent the Vessel presently unto Tortuga to be unladed,
with orders to return with the said Ship as
soon as possible unto the Isle of Savona, where
he would wait for their coming. In the mean
while the rest of the Fleet, being arrived at the
said Island of Savona, met with another Spanish
11
Provisions unto the Isle of Hispaniola; and
also with Money to pay the Garisons of the said
Island. This Vessel also they took without any
resistance, though mounted with eight Guns.
Here were found seven thousand weight of Powder,
great number of Muskets, and other things
of this kind, together with twelve thousand Pieces
of Eight in ready money.
These forementioned Events gave good encouragement
unto the Pirats, as judging them very
good beginnings unto the business they had
in hand. Especially finding their Fleet pretty
well recruited within a little while. For the first
Ship that was taken being arrived at Tortuga, the
Governour ordered to be instantly unladen, and
soon after sent her back with fresh Provisions, and
other Necessaries, unto Lolonois. This Ship he
chose for his own, and gave that which he commanded,
unto his Comrade Antony du Puis. Thus
having received new recruits of men, in lieu of
them he had lost in taking the Prizes abovementioned,
and by sickness, he found himself in a
good condition to prosecute his Voyage. All
being well animated and full of courage, they set
sail for Maracaibo, which Port is scituated in the
Province of Nueva Venezuela, in the Altitude of
twelve degrees and some minutes of Northern
Latitude. This Island is in length twenty leagues,
12
belong the Islands of Onega and Monges. The
East-side thereof is called Cape St. Roman, and the
Western side Cape of Caquibacoa. The Gulf is
called by some, the Gulf of Venezuelo; but the
Pirats usually call it the Bay of Maracaibo.
At the beginning of this Gulf are two Islands,
which extend for the greatest part from East to
West. That that lieth towards the East is called
Isla de las Vigilia, or the Watch-Isle; because
in the middle thereof is to be seen an high Hill,
upon which standeth a house wherein dwelleth
perpetually a Watchman. The other is called
Isla de la Palomas, or the Isle of Pigeons. Between
these two Islands runneth a little Sea, or ra-
ther a Lake, of fresh water, being threescore
leagues in length, and thirty in bredth; which
disgorgeth into the Ocean, and dilateth it self about
the two Islands aforementioned. Between
them is sound the best passage for Ships, the Chanel
of this passage being no broader than the flight
of a great Gun of eight pound carriage, more or
less. Upon the Isle of Pigeons standeth a Castle,
to impede the entry of any Vessels; all such as
will come in, being necessitated to approach very
nigh unto the Castle, by reason of two Banks of
Sand that lie on the other side, with onely fourteen
foot water. Many other Banks of Sand
there be also found in this Lake, as that which is
13
deeper than ten foot; but this lieth forty leagues
within the Lake. Others there be that have no
more than six, seven, or eight foot in depth. All
of them are very dangerous, especially unto such
Mariners as are little acquainted with this Lake.
On the West-side hereof is situated the Citie of
Maracaibo, being very pleasant to the view, by
reason its Houses are built along the shore, having
delicate Prospects every-where round about. The
City may possibly contain three or four thousand
persons, the Slaves being included in this number;
all which do make a Town of a reasonable
bigness. Among these are judged to be eight
hundred persons more or less, able to bear Arms,
all of them Spaniards. Here are also one ParishChurch,
of very good Fabrick, and well adorned;
four Monasteries, and one Hospital. The
City is governed by a Deputy-Governour, who
is substituted here by the Governour of Caracas,
as being his Dependency. The Commerce or
Trading here exercised, consisteth for the greatest
part in Hides and Tobacco. The Inhabitants
posses great numbers of Cattel, and many
Plantations, which extend for the space of thirty
leagues within the Country; especially on that
side that looketh towards the great and populous
Town of Gibraltar. At which place are gathered
huge quantities of Cacao-nuts, and all other
14
the regale and sustenance of the Inhabitants of
Maracaibo, whose Territories are much drier than
those of Gibraltar. Unto this place, those of
Maracaibo send great quantities of Flesh; they
making returns in Orenges, Lemons, and several
other Fruits. For the Inhabitants of Gibraltar
have great scarcity of Provisions of Flesh, their
Fields being not capable of feeding Cows nor
Sheep.
Before the City of Maracaibo lieth a very spacious
and secure Port, wherein may be built all
sort of Vessels; as having great convenience of
Timber, which may be transported thither at very
little charge. Nigh unto the Town lieth al-
so a small Island called Borrica, which serveth
them to feed great numbers of Goats. Of which
Cattel the Inhabitants of Maracaibo make greater
use for their Skins, than for their Flesh or Milk;
they making no great account of these two, unless
while they are as yet but tender and young
Kids. In the Fields about the Town are fed
some numbers of Sheep, but of a very small size.
In some of the Islands that belong unto the Lake,
and in other places hereabouts, do inhabit many
Savage Indians, whom the Spaniards call Bravos,
or Wild. These Indians could never agree as
yet, nor be reduced to any Accord with the Spaniards,
by reason of their brutish and untamable
15
the Western side of the Lake, in little Huts that
are built upon Trees which grow in the water.
The cause hereof being onely to exempt themselves
as much as possible from the innumerable
quantity of Mosquito's, or Gnats, that infest those
parts, and by which they are tormented night and
day. Towards the East-side of the said Lake
are also to be seen whole Towns of Fishermen,
who likewise are constrained to live in Huts, built
upon Trees, like unto the former. Another reason
of thus dwelling, is the frequent Inundations
of Waters: for after great Rains, the Land is
often overflowed for the space of two or three
leagues; there being no less than five and twenty
great Rivers that feed this Lake. The Town
of Gibraltar is also frequently drowned by these
Inundations, insomuch as the Inhabitants are con-
strained to leave their houses, and retire unto their
Plantations.
Gibraltar is situated at the side of the Lake,
forty leagues or thereabouts within it, and receiveth
its necessary Provisions of Flesh, as hath been
said, from Maracaibo. The Town is inhabited
by fifteen hundred persons, more or less; whereof
four hundred may be capable of bearing Arms.
The greatest part of the Inhabitants keep open
Shops, wherein they exercise one mechanick
Trade or other. All the adjacent Fields about
16
of Sugar and Cacao; in which are many
tall and beautiful Trees, of whose Timber Houses
may be built, and also Ships. Among these
Trees are found great store of handsome and
proportionable Cedars, being seven or eight foot
in circumference, which serve there very commonly
to build Boats and Ships. These they build
after such manner as to bear one onely great
Sail; and such Vessels are called Piragua's. The
whole Country round about is sufficiently furnished
with Rivers and Brooks, which are very
useful to the Inhabitants in time of Drowths,
they opening in that occasion many little Chanels,
through which they lead the Rivolets to water
their Fields and Plantations. They plant in
like manner great quantitie of Tobacco, which is
much esteemed in Europe; and for its goodness,
is called there, Tabaco de Sacerdotes, or Priests
Tobacco. They enjoy nigh twenty leagues of
Jurisdiction; which is bounded and defended by
very high Mountains that are perpetually covered
with Snow. On the other side of these
Mountains is situated a great City called Merida,
unto which the Town of Gibraltar is subject. All
sort of Merchandize is carried from this Town
unto the aforesaid City, upon Mules; and that
but at one season of the year, by reason of the
excessive Cold endured in those high Mountains.
17
Flour of Meal, which cometh from towards Peru,
by the way of Estaffe.
Thus far I thought it convenient to make a
short description of the aforesaid Lake of Maracaibo,
and its Situation; to the intent my Reader
might the better be enabled to comprehend
what I shall say concerning what was acted by
the Pirats in this place. The History whereof,
I shall presently begin.
As soon as Lolonois arrived at the Gulf of Vene-
sight of the Watch-tower of the Island of Vigilia,
or Watch-Isle. The next day very early he
set sail from hence, with all his Ships, for the Lake
of Maracaibo; where being arrived, they cast Anchor
the second time. Soon after, they landed
all their men, with designe to attack, in the first
place, the Castle or Fortress that commanded the
Bar, and is therefore called de la Barra. This
Fort consisteth onely of several great Baskets of
Earth placed upon a rising ground, upon which
are planted sixteen great Guns, with several other
heaps of Earth round about, for covering the men
within. The Pirats having landed at the distance
of a league from this Fort, began to advance by
degrees towards it. But the Governour thereof
having espied their landing, had placed an Ambuscade
of some of his men, with designe to cut
18
them in the front. This Ambuscade was found
out by the Pirats; and hereupon getting before,
they assaulted and defeated it so entirely, that
not one man could retreat unto the Castle. This
Obstacle being removed, Lolonois with all his Companions
advanced in great haste towards the Fort.
And after a Fight of almost three hours, wherein
they behaved themselves with desperate Courage,
such as this sort of people use to shew,
they became Masters thereof having made use
of no other Arms than their Swords and Pistols.
In the mean while they were fighting, those who
were routed in the Ambuscade, not being able to
get into the Castle, retired towards the City of
Maracaibo in great confusion and disorder, crying,
The Pirats will presently be here with two thousand
men and more. This City having formerly
been taken by such kind of people as these were,
and sack'd even to the remotest corners thereof,
preserved still in its memory a fresh Idæa of that
misery. Hereupon, as soon as they heard these
dismal News, they endeavoured to escape as fast
as they could towards Gibraltar in their Boats and
Canows, carrying with them all the Goods and
money they could. Being come unto Gibraltar,
they dispersed the rumour, that the Fortress was
taken, and that nothing had been saved, nor any
persons able to escape the fury of the Pirats.
19
The Castle being taken by the Pirats, as was
Ships of the Victory they had obtained; to the
end they should come farther in, without apprehension
of any danger. The rest of that day
was spent in ruining and demolishing the said
Castle. They nailed the Guns, and burnt as
much as they could not carry away: burying also
the dead, and sending on board the Fleet such
as were wounded. The next day very early in
the morning, they weighed Anchor, and directed
their course all together towards the City of Ma-
racaibo, distant onely six leagues, more or less,
from the Fort. But the wind being very scarce,
that day they could advance but little, as being
forced to expect the flowing of the Tyde. The
next morning they came within sight of the
Town, and began to make preparations for landing
under the protection of their own Guns;
being perswaded the Spaniards might have laid
an Ambuscade among the Trees and Woods.
Thus they put their men into Canows, which for
that purpose they brought with them, and lan-
ded where they thought most convenient, shooting
in the mean while very furiously with their
great Guns. Of the people that were in the
Canows, half onely went on shore, the other half
remained on board the said Canows. They fired
with their Guns from the Ships as fast as was possible
20
could see, nor were answered by, no body.
Thus they marched in good order into the Town,
whose Inhabitants, as I told you before, were
all retired into the Woods, and towards Gibraltar,
with their Wives, Children, and Families.
Their houses they left well provided with all sort
of Victuals, such as Flour, Bread, Pork, Brandie,
Wines, and good store of Poultry. With these
things the Pirats fell to banqueting, and making
good Cheer: for in four weeks before, they had
had no opportunity of filling their stomacks with
such plenty.
They instantly possessed themselves of the best
houses in the Town, and placed Centries everywhere
they thought convenient. The great
The next day they sent a body of one hundred
and sixty men to find out some of the Inhabitants
of the Town, whom they understood were
hidden in the Woods not far from thence. These
returned that very night, bringing with them
twenty thousand Pieces of Eight, several Mules
laden with Houshold-goods and Merchandize,
and twenty Prisoners, between men, women, and
children. Some of these Prisoners were put to
the Rack, onely to make them confess where
they had hidden the rest of their Goods; but
they could extort very little from them. Lolo-
21
of murthering, though in cold bloud, ten or
twelve Spaniards, drew his Cutlass and hacked
one to pieces in the presence of all the rest, say-
ing, If you do not confess and declare where you
have hidden the rest of your Goods, I will do the
like unto all your Companions. At last, amongst
these horrible Cruelties and inhumane Threats,
one was found who promised to conduct him,
and shew the place where the rest of the Spaniards
were hidden. But those that were fled,
having intelligence that one had discovered their
lurking Holes unto the Pirats, changed place, and
buried all the remnant of their Riches under
ground; insomuch that the Pirats could not find
them out, unless some other person of their own
Party should reveal them. Besides, that the
Spaniards flying from one place to another every
day, and often changing Woods, were jealous
even of each other; insomuch as the Father scarce
presumed to trust his own Son.
Finally, after that the Pirats had been fifteen
days in Maracaibo, they resolved to go towards
Gibraltar. But the Inhabitants of this place having
received intelligence thereof before-hand,
as also that they intended afterwards to go to
thereof, who was a valiant Souldier, and
had served his King in Flanders in many Military
22
take no care: for he hoped in a little while to exterminate
the said Pirats. Whereupon he transferred
himself immediately unto Gibraltar, with
400 men well armed, ordering at the same time,
the Inhabitants of the said Town to put themselves
in Arms; so that in all he made a body of
eight hundred fighting men. With the same
speed he commanded a Battery to be raised towards
the Sea; whereon he mounted twenty
Guns, covering them all with great Baskets of
Earth. Another Battery likewise he placed in another
place, mounted with eight Guns. After
this was done, he barricado'd an High-way or
narrow Passage unto the Town, through which
the Pirats of necessity ought to pass; opening at
the same time another, through much dirt and
mud in the Wood, which was totally unknown
unto the Pirats.
The Pirats, not knowing any thing of these
Preparations, having imbarked all their Prisoners
and what they had robb'd, took their way
towards Gibraltar. Being come within sight of
the place, they perceived the Royal Standard
hanging forth, and that those of the Town had a
mind to fight, and defend their houses. Lolonois
seeing this resolution, called a Council of War
to deliberate what he ought to do in such case:
Propounding withal unto his Officers and Mariners,
23
very great, seeing the Spaniards had had so much
time to put themselves in a posture of defence,
and had gotten a good body of men together,
with many Martial Provisions. But notwithstanding
(said he) have a good courage. We must
either defend our selves like good Souldiers, or lose
our lives with all the riches we have gotten. Do
as I shall do, who am your Captain. At other times
we have fought with fewer men than we have in our
company at present, and yet we have overcome greater
numbers than there possibly can be in this Town.
The more they are, the more glory we shall attribute
unto our Fortune, and the greater Riches we shall
increase unto it. The Pirats were under this suspition,
that all those Riches which the Inhabitants
of Maracaibo had absconded, were transported
unto Gibraltar; or at least the greatest part
thereof. After this Speech, they all promised
to follow him, and obey very exactly his Commands.
Unto whom Lolonois made answer, 'Tis
well: but know ye withal, that the first man who
shall shew any fear, or the least apprehension thereof,
I will pistol him with my own hands.
With this resolution they cast Anchors nigh
the shore, at the distance of one quarter of a
league from the Town. The next day, before
Sun-rising, they were all landed, being to the
number of three hundred and fourscore men,
24
and one or two Pistols; and withal, sufficient
Powder and Bullet for thirty charges. Here,
upon the shore, they all shaked hands with one
another, in testimony of good courage, and began
their march, Lolonois speaking these words unto
them: Come, my Brothers, follow me, and have a
good courage. They followed their way with a
Guide they had provided. But he, believing he
led them well, brought them to the way which
the Governour had obstructed with Barricado's.
Through this not being able to pass, they went
unto the other, which was newly made in the
Wood among the Mire; unto which the Spaniards
could shoot at pleasure. Notwithstan-
ding, the Pirats being full of courage, cut down
multitude of branches of Trees, and threw them
in the dirt upon the way, to the end they might
not stick so fast in it. In the mean while, those
of Gibraltar fired at them with their great Guns
so furiously, that they could scarce hear nor see
one another, through the noise and smoak. Being
now past the Wood, they came upon firm
ground, where they met with a Battery of six
Guns, which immediately the Spaniards dischar-
ged against them, all being loaded with small Bullets
and pieces of Iron. After this, the Spaniards
sallying forth, set upon them with such sury,
as caused the Pirats to give way and retire;
25
Fort. They continued still firing against the
Pirats, of whom they had already killed and
wounded many. This made them go back to
seek some other way through the middle of the
Wood; but the Spaniards having cut down many
Trees to hinder the passage, they could find
none, and thus were forced to return unto that
they had left. Here the Spaniards continued to
fire, as before; neither would they sally out of
their Batteries to attack the Pirats any more.
Hereby Lolonois and his Companions, not being
able to grimp up the Baskets of Earth, were compelled
to make use of an old Stratagem; wherewith
at last they deceived and overcame the Spaniards.
Lolonois retired suddenly with all his men,
making shew as if he fled. Hereupon the Spaniards,
crying out, They flie, they flie, let us follow
the fugitive Pirats. After they had drawn them
some distance from their Batteries, which was
their onely designe, they turned upon them unexpectedly
with Swords in hand, and killed above
two hundred men. And thus fighting their way
through those who remained alive, they possessed
themselves of the Batteries. The Spaniards
that remained abroad, gave themselves for lost,
and consequently took their flight unto the
26
of eight Guns, surrendred themselves upon
conditions of obtaining quarter for their lives.
The Pirats being now become Masters of the
whole Town, pulled down the Spanish Colours,
and set up their own, taking Prisoners at the same
time as many as they could find. These they
carried unto the great Church, whither also they
transferred many great Guns, wherewith they
raised a Batterie to defend themselves; fearing
lest the Spaniards that were sled, should rally
more of their own Partie, and come upon them
again. But the next day, after they were all
fortified, all their fears disappeared. They ga-
thered all the dead, with intent to allow them
burial, finding the number of above five hundred
Spaniards kill'd; besides those that were wounded
within the Town, and those that died of their
Wounds in the Woods, where they sought for
refuge. Besides which, the Pirats had in their custodie
above one hundred and fiftie Prisoners, and
nigh five hundred Slaves, many Women and
Children.
Of their own Companions the Pirats found
onely fortie dead, and almost as many more
wounded. Whereof the greatest part died afterwards,
through the constitution of the Air,
which brought Fevers and other Accidents upon
them. They put all the Spaniards that were
27
one quarter of a league within the Sea, they sank
the Boats. These things being done, they ga-
thered all the Plate, Houshold-stuff, and Merchandize,
they could rob, or thought convenient to
carry away. But the Spaniards who had any
thing as yet left unto them, hid it very carefully.
Soon after, the Pirats as if they were unsatisfied
with the great Riches they had gotten, began to
seek for more Goods and Merchandize, not sparing
those who lived in the Fields, such as Hunters
and Planters. They had scarce been eighteen days
upon the place, when the greatest part of the
Prisoners they had taken, died for hunger. For
in the Town very few Provisions, especially of
Flesh, were to be found. Howbeit, they had some
quantitie of Flour of Meal, although perhaps
something less than what was sufficient. But
this the Pirats had taken into their custodie to
make Bread for themselves. As to the Swine,
Cows, Sheep, and Poultrie that were found upon
the place, they took them likewise for their
own sustenance, without allowing any share
thereof unto the poor Prisoners. For these they
onely provided some small quantitie of Mules
and Asses flesh, which they killed for that purpose.
And such as could not eat of that loathsome
Provision, were constrained to die for hunger,
as many did, their stomacks not being accustomed
28
some women were found, who were allowed
better Chear by the Pirats, because they served
them in their sensual delights, unto which those
Robbers are hugely given. Among those women,
some had been forced, others were volunteers;
though almost all had rather taken up
that Vice, through Poverty and Hunger, more
than any other cause. Of the Prisoners many
also died under the torments they sustain'd, to
make them confess where they had hidden their
Money or Jewels. And of these, some, because
they had none nor knew of none, and others for
denying what they knew, endured such horrible
deaths.
Finally, after having been in possession of the
Town four entire weeks, they sent four of the
Prisoners, remaining alive, unto the Spaniards
that were fled into the Woods, demanding of
sum hereof they constituted, ten thousand Pieces
of Eight; which unless it were sent unto them,
they threatned to fire and reduce into ashes the
whole Village. For bringing in of this Money,
they allow'd them onely the space of two days.
These being past, and the Spaniards not having
been able to gather so punctually such a sum, the
Pirats began to set fire to many places of the
Town. Thus the Inhabitants perceiving the
29
to extinguish the fire; and withal, promised the
Ransom should be readily paid. The Pirats condescended
to their Petition, helping as much as
they could to stop the progress of the fire. Yet
though they used the best endeavours they possibly
could, one part of the Town was ruined,
especially the Church belonging to the Mona-
stery, which was burnt even to dust. After they
had received the sum above-mentioned, they carried
on board their Ships all the Riches they had
robb'd, together with a great number of Slaves
which had not, as yet, paid their Ransom. For
all the Prisoners had sums of Money set upon
them, and the Slaves were also commanded to be
redeemed. From hence they returned to Mara-
caibo; where being arrived, they found a general
Consternation in the whole City. Unto
which they sent three or four Prisoners to tell the
Governour and Inhabitants, They should bring
them thirty thousand Pieces of Eight on board their
Ships, for a Ransom of their Houses; otherwise they
should be entirely sack'd anew and burnt.
Among these Debates, a certain party of Pirats
came on shore to rob, and these carried away
Church, on board the Fleet. The Spaniards,
who were sent to demand of those that were fled
the sum aforementioned, returned with orders to
30
performed, and concluded with the Pirats they
would give for their Ransom and liberty, the
sum of twenty thousand Pieces of Eight, and five
hundred Cows. The condition hereof being
such, as they should commit no farther acts of
Hostility against any person, but should depart
from thence presently after payment of the money
and Cattel. The one and the other being
delivered, they set sail with the whole Fleet,
causing great joy unto the Inhabitants of Maracaibo
to see themselves quit of this sort of people.
Notwithstanding, three days after they resumed
their fears and admiration, seeing the Pirats to
appear again, and re-enter the Port they had left
with all their Ships. But these apprehensions
soon vanished, by onely hearing one of the Pirats
Errand, who came on shore to tell them from
Lolonois, They should send him a skilful Pilot to
conduct one of his greatest Ships over the dangerous
Bank that lieth at the entry of the Lake. Which
Petition, or rather Command, was instantly granted.
The Pirats had now been full two months in
those Towns; wherein they committed those
cruel and insolent Actions we have told you of.
Departing therefore from thence, they took their
course towards the Island Hispaniola, and arrived
thither in eight days, casting Anchors in a
31
Isle is inhabited by French Bucaniers, who most
commonly sell the Flesh they hunt, unto Pirats,
and others who now and then put in there with
intent of victualling or trading with them. Here
they unladed the whole Cargazon of Riches they
had robbed; the usual Store-house of the Pirats,
being commonly under the shelter of the Bucaniers.
Here also they made a Dividend amongst
them of all their Prizes and Gains, according to
that order and degree which belonged unto every
one, as hath been mentioned above. Having
cast up the account, and made exact calculation
of all they had purchased, they found in ready
Money two hundred and threescore thousand
Pieces of Eight. Whereupon this being divided,
every one received to his share in Money, and
also in pieces of Silk, Linen, and other Commodities,
the value of above one hundred Pieces of
Eight. Those who had been wounded in this
Expedition, received their part before all the
rest; I mean, such Recompences as I spoke of
in the first Book, for the loss of their Limbs,
which many sustained. Afterwards they weighed
all the Plate that was uncoined, reckoning af-
ter the rate of ten Pieces of Eight for every
pound. The Jewels were prized with much
variety, either at too high, or too low rates;
being thus occasioned by their own ignorance.
32
again, that he had not concealed any thing, nor
subtracted from the common stock. Hence they
proceeded to the Dividend of what shares belonged
to such as were dead amongst them, either
in battel or otherwise. These shares were
given to their Friends to be kept entire for them,
and to be delivered in due time unto their nearest
Relations, or whosoever should appear to be
their lawful Heirs.
The whole Dividend being entirely finished,
they set sail from thence for the Isle of Tortuga.
Here they arrived, one month after, to the great
joy of most that were upon the Island. For as
to the common Pirats, in three weeks they had
scarce any money left them; having spent it all
in things of little value, or at play either of Cards
or Dice. Here also arrived, not long before
them, two French Ships laden with Wine and
Brandy, and other things of this kind: Whereby
these Liquors, at the arrival of the Pirats, were
sold indifferent cheap. But this lasted not long:
for soon after they were enhanced extremely, a
gallon of Brandy being sold for four Pieces of
Eight. The Governour of the Island bought of
the Pirats the whole Cargo of the Ship laden with
Cacao; giving them for that rich Commodity,
scarce the twentieth part of what it was worth.
Thus they made shift to lose and spend the
33
they were purchased by robbing. The Taverns
and Stews, according to the custom of Pirats, got
the greatest part thereof: Insomuch that soon
after they were constrained to seek more, by the
same unlawful means they had obtained the precedent.
Chap. III.
Lolonois maketh new preparations to take
the City of St. James de Leon. As
also that of Nicaragua, where he miserably
perisheth.
LOlonois had got himself very great Esteem
and Repute at Tortuga, by this last Voyage,
by reason he brought them home such conside-
rable profit. And now he needed take no great
care how to gather men to serve under his Colours,
seeing more came in voluntarily to proffer
their service unto him, than he could employ.
Every one reposing such great confidence in his
conduct for seeking their Fortunes, that they
judged it a matter of the greatest security imaginable,
to expose themselves in his company, to
the hugest dangers that might possibly occur.
34
go with his Officers and Souldiers towards the
parts of Nicaragua, and pillage there as many
Towns as he could meet.
Having published his new Preparations, he had
about the number of seven hundred, more
or less. Of these he put three hundred on board
the Ship he took at Maracaibo, and the rest in other
Vessels of lesser burthen, which were five
more: So that the whole number were in all six
Ships. The first Port they went unto, was in
the Island of Hispaniola, to a place called Bayaha;
where they determined to victual the Fleet, and
take in Provisions. This being done, they set
sail from hence, and steered their course to a Port
called Matamana, lying on the South-side of the
Isle of Cuba. Their intent was to take here all
the Canows they could meet; these Coasts being
frequented by an huge number of Fishermen
of Tortoises, who carry them from thence unto
Havana. They took as many of the said Canows,
to the great grief of those miserable people,
as they thought necessary for their designs.
For they had great necessity of these small bottoms,
by reason the Port whither they designed
to go, was not of depth sufficient to bear Ships
of any burthen. From hence they took their
course towards the Cape called Gracias à Dios,
35
fifteen degrees, Northern latitude; at the distance
of one hundred leagues from the Island
de los Pinos. But being out at Sea, they were
taken with a sad and tedious Calm; and by the
agitation of the Waves alone, were thrown into
the Gulf of Honduras. Here they laboured very
much to regain what they had lost, but all in
vain; both the Waters, in their course, and the
Winds being contrary to their endeavours. Besides,
that the Ship wherein Lolonois was embarqued,
could not follow the rest; and what was
worse, they wanted already Provisions. Hereupon
they were forced to put into the first Port
or Bay they could reach, to revictual their Fleet.
Thus they entred with their Canows into a River
called Xagua, inhabited by Indians, whom
they totally robb'd and destroy'd; they finding
amongst their Goods great quantity of Millet, many
Hogs, and Hens. Not contented with what
they had done, they determined to remain there
while the bad weather was over, and to pillage
all the Towns and Villages lying along the coast
of the Gulf. Thus they passed from one place
to another, seeking, as yet, more Provisions; by
reason they had not what they wanted for the
accomplishment of their designes. Having searched
and rifled many Villages, where they found
no great matter, they came at last unto Puerto
36
several Storehouses, which serve to keep the
Merchandizes that are brought from the inner
parts of the Country, until the arrival of the
Ships. There was in the Port at that occasion, a
Spanish Ship mounted with four and twenty Guns,
and sixteen Pedrero's, or Morterpieces. This
Ship was immediately seized by the Pirats; and
then drawing nigh the shore, they landed, and
burnt the two Storehouses, with all the rest of
of the houses belonging to the place. Many Inhabitants
likewise they took Prisoners, and committed
upon them the most insolent and inhumane
cruelties that ever Heathens invented, putting
them to the cruellest tortures they could imagine
or devise. It was the custom of Lolonois,
that having tormented any persons, and they
not confessing, he would instantly cut them in
pieces with his Hanger, and pull out their
Tongues; desiring to do the same, if possible,
unto every Spaniard in the World. Oftentimes
it happened that some of these miserable Prisoners,
being forced thereunto by the Rack, would
promise to discover the places where the fugitive
Spaniards lay hidden; which being not able afterwards
to perform, they were put to more Enormous
and cruel Deaths, than they who were
dead before.
The Prisoners being all dead and annihilated
[ILLUSTRATION]
37
shew them what they desired) they marched
from hence unto the Town of San Pedro, or St.
Peter, distant ten or twelve leagues from Puerto
Cavallo, having in their company three hundred
men, whom Lolonois led, and leaving behind him
Moses van Vin for his Lieutenant to govern the
rest in his absence. Being come three leagues
upon their way, they met with a Troop of Spaniards,
who lay in Ambuscade for their coming.
These they set upon with all the courage imaginable,
and at last totally defeated; howbeit
they behaved themselves very manfully at the
beginning of the Fight. But not being able to
resist the fury of the Pirats, they were forced to
give way, and save themselves by flight, leaving
many Pirats dead upon the place, and wounded;
as also some of their own Party maimed by the
way. These Lolonois put to death without mercy,
having asked them what questions he thought
fit for his purpose.
There were still remaining some few Prisoners
who were not wounded. These were asked by
Lolonois, if any more Spaniards did lie farther on
in Ambuscade? Unto whom they answered,
there were. Then he commanded them to be
brought before him, one by one, and asked, if
there was no other way to be found to the Town
but that? This he did, out of a designe to excuse,
38
all constantly answered him, they knew none.
Having asked them all, and finding they could
shew him no other way, Lolonois grew outragiously
passionate; insomuch that he drew his
Cutlass, and with it cut open the breast of one
of those poor Spaniards, and pulling out his heart
with his sacrilegious hands, began to bite and
gnaw it with his teeth, like a ravenous Wolf,
saying unto the rest, I will serve you all alike, if
you shew me not another way.
Hereupon those miserable Wretches promised
to shew him another way: But withal, they told
him, it was extremely difficult and laborious.
Thus, to satisfie that cruel Tyrant, they began to
lead him and his Army. But finding it not for
his purpose, even as they told him, he was constrained
to return unto the former way, swearing
with great choler and indignation, Mort Dien,
les Espagnols me le payeront: By Gods death, the
Spaniards shall pay me for this.
The next day he fell into another Ambuscade;
the which he assaulted with such horrible fury,
that in less than an hours time, he routed the Spaniards,
and killed the greatest part of them. The
Spaniards were perswaded that by these Ambuscades
they should better be able to destroy the
Pirats, assaulting them by degrees; and for this
reason had posted themselves in several places.
39
was placed a Party of Spaniards, both stronger
and to greater advantage than the former. Yet
notwithstanding, the Pirats, by throwing with
their hands little Firebals in great number, and
continuing to do so for some time, forced this
Party, as well as the precedent, to flie. And
this with such great loss of men, as that before
they could reach the Town, the greatest part of
the Spaniards were either killed or wounded.
There was but one path which led unto the
Town. This path was very well barricado'd
with good defences: And the rest of the Town
round about was planted with certain Shrubs or
Trees named Raqueltes, very full of thorns, and
these very sharp-pointed. This sort of Fortification
seemed stronger than the Triangles which are
used in Europe, when an Army is of necessity to
pass by the place of an Enemy; it being almost
impossible for the Pirats to traverse those Shrubs.
The Spaniards that were posted behind the said
defences, seeing the Pirats come, began to
shoot at them with their great Guns. But these
perceiving them ready to fire, used to stoop
down, and when the shot was made, fall upon the
Defendants with Fire-balls in hands, and naked
Swords, killing with these Weapons many of the
Town. Yet notwithstanding, not being able to
advance any farther, they were constrained to
40
to the attaque again, with fewer men
than before; and observing not to shoot till they
were very nigh, they gave the Spaniards a charge
so dexterously, that with every shot they killed
an Enemy.
The Attaque continuing thus eager on both
sides till night, the Spaniards were compelled to
hang forth a white Flag, in token of Truce, and
that they desired to come to a Parly. The onely
Conditions they required for delivering the
Town, were, That the Pirats should give the In-
habitants quarter for two hours. This short space
of time they demanded, with intent to carry away
and abscond as much of their Goods and Riches
as they could; as also to flie unto some other
neighbouring Town. Upon the agreement of
this Article they entred the Town, and continued
there the two hours abovementioned, without
committing the least act of hostility, nor causing
any trouble to the Inhabitants. But no
sooner that time was past, than Lolonois ordered
the Inhabitants should be follow'd and robb'd of
all they had carried away; and not onely Goods,
but their Persons likewise to be made all Prisoners.
Notwithstanding, the greatest part of their
Merchandize and Goods were in such manner absconded,
as the Pirats could not find them; they
meeting onely a few leathern Sacks that were
fill'd with Anil or Indigo.
41
Having staid at this Town some few days, and
most horrid Insolencies, they at last quitted the
place, carrying away with them all that they
possibly could, and reducing the Town totally
into ashes. Being come unto the Sea-side, where
they left a party of their own Comrades, they
found these had busied themselves in cruzing upon
the Fishermen that lived thereabouts, or came
that way from the River of Guatimala. In this
River also was expected a Ship that was to come
from Spain. Finally, they resolved to go towards
the Islands that lie on the other side of the
Gulf, there to cleanse and careen their Vessels.
But in the mean while they left two Canows before
the coast, or rather the mouth of the River
of Guatimala, to the intent they should take the
Ship which, as I said before, was expected from
Spain.
But their chief intention of going unto those
Tortoises of those places are very excellent and
pleasant food. As soon as they arrived there,
they divided into Troops, each party chusing a
fit post for that Fishery. Every one of them undertook
to knit a Net with the Rinds of certain
Trees, called in those parts, Macoa. Of these
Rinds they make also Ropes and Cables for the
service of Ships: Insomuch that no Vessel can be
42
find the said Trees. There be also in those parts
many places where they find Pitch; which is gathered
thereabouts in great abundance. The
quantity hereof is so great, that running down
the Sea-coasts, being melted by the heat of the
Sun, it congealeth in the water into great heaps,
and representeth the shape of small Islands. This
Pitch is not like unto that we have in the Countries
of Europe; but is hugely like, both in colour
and shape, unto that froth of the Sea which
is called by the Naturalists, Bitumen. But in my
judgment, this matter is nothing else than Wax,
which stormy weather hath cast into the Sea;
being part of that huge quantity which in the
neighbouring Territories is made by the Bees.
Thus from places far distant from the Sea, it is
also brought unto the Sea-coast by the Winds
and rowling Waves of great Rivers; being likewise
mingled with sand, and having the smell of
black Ambar, such as is sent us from the Orient.
In those parts are found great quantities of the
said Bees, who make their Honey in Trees; from
whence it happeneth that the Honey-combs being
fixed unto the bodies of the Trees, when
Tempests arise they are torn away, and by the
fury of the Winds carried into the Sea, as hath
been said before. Some Naturalists are willing
to say, that between the Honey and the Wax is
43
from whence proceedeth also the good Ambar.
This opinion is rendred the more probable, because
the said Ambar being found and tasted, it
affordeth the like taste as Wax doth.
But now, returning unto my discourse, I shall
let you know, that the Pirats made in those Islands
all the haste to equip their Vessels they
could possible, by reason they had news the
Spanish Ship was come which they expected.
They spent some time in cruzing upon the coasts
of Jucatan, whereabouts inhabit many Indians,
who seek for the Ambar abovementioned in those
Seas. But seeing we are come to this place, I
on the manner of living of these Indians, and the
divine Worship which they practise.
The Indians of the coasts of Jucatan have now
of the Spaniards. Unto this Nation they
performed all manner of Service: for whensoever
any of them had need of a Slave or Servant,
they sent to seek one of these Indians to serve
them as long as they pleased. By the Spaniards
they were initiated at first in the Principles of
Christian Faith and Religion. Being thus made
a part of Christianity, they used to send them
every Sunday and Holiday through the whole
year, a Priest to perform divine Service among
44
known, but certainly, through evil temptations
of the Father of Idolatry the Devil, they sud-
denly cast off Christian Religion again, and abandoned
the true divine Worship; beating
withal and abusing the Priest was sent them.
This provoked the Spaniards to punish them according
to their deserts; which they did by casting
many of the chiefest of these Indians into
Prison. Every one of those Barbarians had, and
hath still, a God to himself, whom he serveth
and worshippeth. It is a thing that deserveth all
admiration, to consider how they use in this particular
a Child that is newly born into the
world. As soon as this is issued from the Womb
of the Mother, they carry it unto the Temple.
Here they make a circle or hole, which they
fill with ashes, without mingling any thing else
with them. Upon this heap of ashes they place
the Child naked, leaving it there a whole night
alone, not without great danger; no body daring
to come neer it. In the mean while the
Temple is open on all sides, to the intent all sorts
of Beasts may freely come in and out. The next
day the Father and Relations of the Infant return
thither, to see if the tract or step of any Animal
appeareth to be printed in the ashes. Not finding
any, they leave the Child there, until that
some Beast hath approached the Infant, and left
45
whatsoever it be, they consecrate the Creature
newly born, as unto its God; which he is
bound to worship and serve all his life, esteeming
the said Beast as his Patron and Protector in
all cases of danger or necessity. They offer unto
their Gods Sacrifices of Fire, wherein they burn
a certain Gum called by them Copal; whose
smoak affordeth a very delicious smell. When
the Infant is grown up, the Parents thereof tell
him and shew him whom he ought to worship,
serve, and honour, as his own proper God. This
being known, he goeth unto the Temple, where
he maketh Offerings unto the said Beast. Afterwards,
if in the course of his life any one hath injur'd
him, or any evil happeneth unto him, he
complaineth thereof unto that Beast, and sacrificeth
unto it for revenge. From whence many
times cometh, that those who have done the injury
of which he complaineth, are found to be
bitten, killed, or otherwise hurt by such Animals.
After this superstitious and idolatrous manner;
do live those miserable and ignorant Indians, that
inhabit all the Islands of the Gulf of Honduras;
as also many of them that dwell upon the Continent
of Jucatan. In the Territories of which
Country are found most excellent Ports for the
safety of Ships, where those Indians most commonly
46
are not very faithful one to another; and
likewise use strange Ceremonies at their Marriages.
Whensoever any one pretendeth to marry
a young Damsel, he first applieth himself unto
her Father, or nearest Relation. He then examineth
him very exactly concerning the manner
of cultivating their Plantations, and other things
at his pleasure. Having satisfied the Questions
that were put unto him by the Father-in-Law,
he giveth the young man a Bow and Arrow.
With these things he repaireth unto the young
maid, and presenteth her with a Garland of green
Leaves, interweaved with sweet-smelling Flowers.
This she is obliged to put upon her head,
and lay aside that which she wore before that
time; it being the custom of the Country, that
all Virgins go perpetually crown'd with Flowers.
This Garland being received and put upon the
head, every one of the Relations and Friends go
to advise with others, among themselves, whether
that Marriage will be useful, and of likely happiness,
or not. Afterwards, the aforesaid Relations
and Friends meet together at the house of
the Damsels Father, and there they drink of a
certain Liquor made of Maiz, or Indian Wheat.
And here, before the whole company, the Father
giveth his Daughter in marriage unto the
Bridegroom. The next day the newly-married
47
pulleth off the Garland, and teareth it in
pieces, with great cries and bitter lamentations,
according to the custom of the Country. Many
other things I could relate at large of the manner
of living, and customs of those Indians; but
these I shall omit, thereby to follow my discourse.
Our Pirats therefore had many Canows of the
Indians in the Isle of Sambale, five leagues distant
from the coasts of Jucatan. In the aforesaid
Island is found great quantity of Ambar, but
more especially when any storm ariseth from towards
the East; from whence the Waves bring
many things, and very different. Through this
Sea no Vessels can pass, unless very small, the
waters being too shallow. In the Lands that are
surrounded by this Sea, is found huge quantity
of Campeche-wood, and other things of this kind,
that serve for the Art of Dying; which occasioneth
them to be much esteemed in Europe: And
doubtless, would be much more, in case we had
the Skill and Science of the Indians; who are so
industrious, as to make a Dye or Tincture that
never changeth its colour, nor fadeth away.
After that the Pirats had been in that Gulf
three entire months, they received advice that
the Spanish Ship was come. Hereupon they hastened
unto the Port, where the Ship lay at Anchor
48
designe to assault her as soon as it were possible.
But before this attempt, they thought it convenient
to send away some of their Boats from the
mouth of the River, to seek for a small Vessel
which was expected; having notice that she was
very richly laden, the greatest part of the Cargo
being Plate, Indigo, and Cochineel. In the mean
while, the people of the Ship that was in the
Port had notice given that the Pirats designed upon
them. Hereupon they prepared all things
very well for the defence of the said Vessel;
which was mounted with forty two Guns, had
many Arms on board, and other necessaries, together
with one hundred and thirty fighting men.
Unto Lolonois all this seemed but little; and thus
he assaulted her with great courage, his own Ship
carrying onely twenty two Guns, and having no
more than a small Saëtia or Flyboat for help.
But the Spaniards defended themselves after such
manner, as they forced the Pirats to retire. Notwithstanding,
while the smoak of the Powder
continued very thick, as amidst a dark Fog or
Mist, they sent four Canows very well man'd,
and boarded the Ship with great agility; whereby
they compell'd the Spaniards to surrender.
The Ship being taken, they found not in her
what they thought, as being already almost
wholly unladed. All the Treasure they here
49
parcel of Paper, some earthen Jarrs full of Wine,
and other things of this kind; all of small importance.
Presently after, Lolonois called a Council of the
to go to Guatimala. Upon this point they divided
into several sentiments; some of them liking
the Proposal very well, and others disliking
it as much. Especially a certain party of them,
who were but new in those exercises of Piracy,
and who had imagined at their setting forth from
Tortuga, that Pieces of Eight were gathered as easily
as Pears from a Tree. But having found at
last most things contrary to their expectation,
they quitted the Fleet, and returned from whence
they set out. Others on the contrary, affirmed
they had rather die for hunger, than return
home without a great deal of money.
But the major part of the company judging
the propounded Voyage little fit for their purpose,
separated from Lolonois and the rest. Among
these was Ringleader one Moses Vanclein,
This Fellow took his course towards Tortuga,
designing to cruze to and fro in those Seas.
With him also joyned another Comrade of his
own, by name Pierre le Picard; who seeing the
rest to leave Lolonois, thought fit to do the same.
50
steered their course homewards, coasting along
the Continent, till they came at last unto Costa
Rica. Here they landed a strong Party of men
nigh unto the River of Veraguas, and marched in
good order unto the Town of the same name.
This place they took and totally pillaged, notwithstanding
that the Spaniards made a strong
and warlike resistance. They brought away
some of the Inhabitants as Prisoners, with all that
they had robb'd, which was of no great importance.
The reason hereof, being the poverty of
the place, which exerciseth no manner of Trade
than onely working in the Mines, where some
of the Inhabitants do constantly attend. Yet no
other persons seek for the Gold, than onely
Slaves. These they compel to dig, whether they
live or die, and wash the earth that is taken out,
in the nighbouring Rivers; where oftentimes
they find pieces of Gold as big as Peas. Finally,
the Pirats found in this Robbery no greater value
than seven or eight pounds weight of Gold.
Hereupon they returned back, giving over the
designe they had, to go farther on to the Town
of Nata, situated upon the coasts of the SouthSea.
Hitherto they designed to march, knowing
the Inhabitants to be rich Merchants, who
had their Slaves at work in the Mines of Veraguas.
But from this Enterprize they were deterr'd
51
saw gather on all sides to fall upon them; whereof
they had timely advice beforehand.
Lolonois thus abandoned by his Companions,
remained alone in the Gulf of Honduras, by reason
his Ship was too great to get out at the time
of the reflux of those Seas, which the smaller Vessels
could more easily do. There he sustained
great want of all sorts of Provisions: Insomuch
as they were constrained to go ashore every day,
to seek wherewithal to maintain themselves. And
not finding any thing else, they were forced to
kill Monkies and other Animals, such as they
could find, for their sustenance.
At last having found, in the altitude of the
Cape of Gracias à Dios, certain little Islands called
de las Pertas: Here, nigh unto these Isles, his
fast, as no Art could be found to get her off into
deep water again. Notwithstanding, they unladed
all the Guns, Iron, and other weighty things
as much as possibly they could: but all they could
do, was to little or no effect. Hereupon they
were necessitated to break the Ship in pieces, and
with some of the Planks and Nails build themselves
a Boat, wherewith to get away from those
Islands. Thus they began their work; and
mean while they are employed about it, I shall
pass to describe succinctly the Isles aforementioned,
and their Inhabitants.
52
The Islands called de las Pertas, are inhabited
at any time known or conversed with any
civil People. They are tall in stature, and very
nimble in running, which they perform almost as
fast as horses. At diving also in the Sea, they
are very dexterous and hardy. From the bottom
of the Sea I saw them take up an Anchor
that weighed six hundred pound, by tying a Cable
unto it with great dexterity, and pulling it
from a Rock. They use no other Arms than such
as are made of Wood, without any Iron, unless
that some instead thereof do fix a Crocodiles
tooth, which serveth for a point. They have
neither Bows nor Arrows among them, as other
Indians have; but their common Weapon is a
sort of Lances, that are long a fathom and a half.
In these Islands there be many Plantations surrounded
with Woods, from whence they gather great
abundance of Fruits. Such are Potato's, Bananas,
Racoven, Ananas, and many others, which
the constitution of the Soil affordeth. Nigh
unto these Plantations they have no houses to
dwell in, as in other places of the Indies. Some
are of opinion that these Indians eat humane
flesh; which seemeth to be confirmed by what
happened when Lolonois was there. Two of his
Companions, the one being a Frenchman, and
the other a Spaniard, went into the Woods,
53
they met with a Troop of Indians that began to
pursue them. They defended themselves as
well as they could with their Swords; but at
last were forced to flie. This the Frenchman performed
with great agility; but the Spaniard being
not so swift as his Companion, was taken by
those Barbarians, and heard of no more. Some
days after, they attempted to go into the Woods
to see what was become of their Companion. Unto
this effect twelve Pirats set forth very well arm'd,
amongst whom was the French-man, who conducted
them, and shewed them the place where
he left his Companion. Here they found, nigh
unto the place, that the Indians had kindled
fire; and at a small distance from thence, they
found the bones of the said Spaniard very well
roasted. From hence they inferr'd, that they had
roasted the miserable Spaniard, of whom they
found more, some pieces of flesh ill scraped off
from the bones; and one hand, which had only
two fingers remaining.
They marched farther on, seeking for Indians.
who endeavour'd to escape, seeing the Pirats so
strong and well arm'd. But they overtook some
of them, and brought on board their Ships five
men and four women. With these they used
all the means they could invent to make themselves
54
giving them certain small trifles, as Knives, Beads,
and the like things. They gave them also Victuals
and Drink; but nothing of either would
they taste. It was also observable, that all the
while they were Prisoners on board the Ships,
they spoke not one word to each other among
themselves. Thus the Pirats seeing these poor
Indians were much afraid of them, presented
them again with some small things, and let them
go. When they departed, they made signes,
giving them to understand, they would come again.
But they soon forgot their Benefactors,
and were never heard nor seen more. Neither
could any notice afterwards be had of these Indians,
or any others, in the whole Island, after that
time. Which occasioned the Pirats to suspect
that both those that were taken, and all the rest
of the Island, did all swim away by night unto
some other little neighbouring Islands: Especially
considering they could never set eyes on any
Indian more; neither was there ever seen any
Boat or other Vessel in the whole circumference
of the Island.
In the mean while, the Pirats were very desirous
to see their long-Boat finished, which they
were building with the timber of the Ship that
struck upon the Sands. Yet considering their
work would be but long, they began to cultivate
55
Beans, which came to maturity in six weeks time; &
many other Fruits. They had good provision of
Spanish Wheat, Bananas, Racovent, and other things.
With the Wheat they made Bread, and bak'd it
in portable Ovens, which they had brought with
them to this effect. Thus they feared not hunger
in those desert places. After this manner
they employed themselves for the space of five
or six months. Which time being past, and the
long-Boat finished, they determined to go unto
the River of Nicaragna, to see if they could take
some few Canows, and herewith return unto the
said Islands and fetch away their Companions
that remained behind, by reason the Boat they
had built was not capable of transporting so many
men together. Hereupon, to evite any disputes
that might arise, they cast Lots among
themselves, determining thereby who should go,
or stay in the Island.
The Lot fell onely upon one half of the people
of the lost Vessel; who embarked upon the
Long-boat they had built, and also the Skiff
which they had before; the other half remaining
on shore. Lolonois having set sail, arrived in
few days at the mouth of the River of Nicaraguæ.
Here suddenly his ill fortune assailed him, which
due unto the multitude of horrible
56
had committed. Here he met with both Spaniards
and Indians, who joyntly together set upon
him and his Companions, and used them so
roughly, that the greatest part of the Pirats were
killed upon the place. Lolonois, with those that
remained alive, had much ado to escape on board
their Boats aforementioned. Yet notwithstanding
this great loss of men, he resolved not to
return to seek those he had left at the Isle of
Pertas, without taking some Boats, such as he
looked for. Unto this effect he determined to
go farther on to the coasts of Cartagena, with
designe to seek for Canows. But God Almighty,
the time of his divine Justice being now already
come, had appointed the Indians of Darien
to be the Instruments and Executioners
thereof. These Indians of Darien are esteemed
as Bravo's, or wild savage Indians, by the neighbouring
Spaniards, who never could reduce them
to civility. Hither Lolonois came (being rather
brought by his evil Conscience that cried for punishment
of his Crimes) thinking to act in that
Country his former cruelties. But the Indians
within a few days after his arrival took him Prisoner,
and tore him in pieces alive, throwing his
Body limb by limb into the fire, and his Ashes into
the air; to the intent no trace nor memory
might remain of such an infamous inhumane
57
exact account of the aforesaid Tragedy; affirming
withal, that he himself had escaped the same punishment,
not without the greatest of difficulties.
He believed also, that many of his Comrades
who were taken Prisoners in that Ren-
counter by the Indians of Darien, were after the
same manner as their cruel Captain, torn in pieces,
and burned alive. Thus endeth the History
of the life and miserable death of that infernal
Wretch Lolonois. Who full of horrid, execrable,
and enormous deeds, and also debtor to so
much innocent bloud, died by cruel and butcherly
hands, such as his own were in the course of
his life.
Those that remained in the Island de las Per-
onely to their great misfortune, hearing no
news of their Captain, nor Companions, at last
embarked themselves upon the Ship of a certain
Pirat, who happened to pass that way. This
Fellow was come from Jamaica with intent to
land at the Cape of Gracias à Dios; and from
hence to mount the River with his Canows, and
take the City of Cartagena. These two parcels
of Pirats being now joyned together, were infinitely
gladded at the presence and society of one
another. Those, because they found themselves
delivered from their miseries, poverty, and necessities,
58
of ten entire months. These, because they were
now considerably strengthened, whereby to effect
with greater satisfaction their intended designes.
Hereupon, as soon as they were arrived unto the
aforesaid Cape of Gracias à Dios, they all put
themselves into Canows, and with these Vessels
mounted the River, being in number five hundred
men; leaving onely five or six persons in
every Ship, to keep them. They took no Provi-
sions with them, as being perswaded they should
find every-where sufficient. But these their own
hopes were found totally vain, as not being
grounded in God Almighty. For he ordained
it so, that the Indians having perceived their coming,
were all fled before them, not leaving in
their houses nor Plantations, which for the most
part do border upon the sides of Rivers, any
thing of necessary Provisions or Victuals. Hereby,
in few days after they had quitted their Ships,
they were reduced to such necessity and hunger,
as nothing could be more extreme. Notwithstanding,
the hopes they had conceived of making
their fortunes very soon, did animate them
for the present. Being contented in this affliction
with a few green Herbs, such as they could
gather as they went upon the banks of the River.
Yet all this courage and vigour of mind could
59
hearts, as well as their bodies, began to fail for
hunger: Insomuch as they found themselves constrained
to quit the River, and betake themselves
unto the Woods, seeking out some small Villa-
ges where they might find relief for their necessity.
But all was in vain: For having ranged up
and down the Woods for some days, without
finding the least comfort to their hungry desires,
they were forced to return again unto the River.
Where being come, they thought it convenient
to descend unto the Sea-coasts where they had
left their Ships, not being able to find in the present
Enterprize what they sought for. In this
laborious journey they were reduced to such ex-
tremity, that many of them devoured their own
Shoes, the Sheaths of their Swords, Knives, and
other things of this kind. Being almost ravenous,
and fully desirous to meet some Indians, intending
to sacrifice them unto their teeth. At last
they arrived at the coast of the Sea, where they
found some comfort and relief to their former
miseries, and also means to seek more. Yet notwithstanding,
the greatest part of them perished
through faintness, and other Diseases contracted
by hunger; which occasioned also the remaining
part to disperse. Till at last, by degrees, many
or most of them fell into the same Pit that Lolonois
did. Of him, and of his Companions, I
60
Narrative; which now I shall continue with the
Actions and Exploits of Captain Henry Morgan.
Who may not undeservedly be called the second
Lolonois; as not being unlike or inferiour unto
him, either in Atchievements against the Spaniards,
or in Robberies of many innocent People.
Chap. IV.
Of the Origine and Descent of Capt. Henry
Morgan. His Exploits, and a Continuation
of the most remarkable Actions of
his Life.
CAptain Henry Morgan was born in the
Kingdom of England, and there in the
Principality of Wales. His Father was a rich
Yeoman or Farmer, and of good quality in that
Country, even as most who bear that name in
Wales, are known to be. Morgan being as yet
young, had no inclinations to follow the Calling
of his Father; and therefore left his Country,
and came towards the Sea-coasts to seek some other
Employ more suitable to his humour, that
aspired to something else. There he found entertainment
in a certain Port where several Ships
[ILLUSTRATION]
61
Barbadas. With these Ships he resolved to go
in the service of one, who, according to what is
commonly practised in those parts by the English
and other Nations, sold him as soon as he came
on shore. He served his time at Barbadas; and
when he had obtained his liberty, thence transferred
himself unto the Island of Jamaica, there
to seek new fortunes. Here he found two Vessels
of Pirats that were ready to go to Sea. Being
destitute of Employ, he put himself into one
of these Ships, with intent to follow the exercises
of that sort of people. He learn'd in a little
while their manner of living; and so exactly,
that having performed three or four Voyages
with some profit and good success, he agreed
with some of his Comrades, who had gotten by
the same Voyages a small parcel of money, to
joyn stocks and buy a Ship. The Vessel being
bought, they unanimously chose him to be the
Captain and Commander thereof.
With this Ship, soon after, he set forth from
Jamaica to cruze upon the coasts of Campeche;
in which Voyage he had the fortune to take several
Ships, with which he returned triumphant to
the same Island. Here he found at the same
time an old Pirat, named Mansvelt, (of whom
of this book) who was then busied in equipping
62
to land upon the Continent, and pillage whatever
came in his way. Mansvelt seeing Captain
Morgan return with so many Prizes, judged him,
from his actions, to be of undaunted courage; and
hereupon was moved to chuse him for his ViceAdmiral
in that Expedition. Thus having fitted
out fifteen Ships, between great and small,
they set sail from Jamaica with five hundred
men, both Walloons and French. With this Fleet
they arrived not long after at the Isle of St. Catharine,
situated nigh unto the Continent of Costa
Rica, in the altitude of twelve degrees and a half,
Northern latitude, and distant thirty five leagues
from the River of Chagre, between North and
South. Here they made their first descent, landing
most of their men presently after.
Being now come to try their Arms and Fortune,
they in a short while forced the Garison
that kept the Island to surrender and deliver into
their hands all the Forts and Castles belonging
thereunto. All these they instantly demolished,
reserving onely one; wherein they placed one
hundred men of their own Party, and all the
Slaves they had taken from the Spaniards. With
the rest of their men they marched unto another
small Island nigh unto that of St. Catharine, and
adjoyning so near unto it, that with a Bridge they
could get over. In few days they made a Bridge,
63
pieces of Ordance which they had taken upon the
great Island. Having ruined and destroyed, with
Sword and Fire, both the Islands, leaving what
Orders were necessary at the Castle abovementioned,
they put forth to Sea again, with the
Spaniards they had taken Prisoners. Yet these
they set on shore, not long after, upon the firm
Land, nigh unto a place called Puerto Velo. After
this, they began to cruze upon the coasts of
Costa Rica, till that finally they came unto the
River of Colla, designing to rob and pillage all
the Towns they could find in those parts, and
afterwards to pass unto the Village of Nata, to
do the same.
The President or Governour of Panama having
had advice of the arrival of these Pirats, and
the Hostilities they committed every-where,
thought it his duty to set forth to their encoun-
Pirats to retire suddenly with all speed and care.
Especially seeing the whole Country alarmed at
their arrival, and that their designes were known,
and consequently could be of no great effect at
that present. Hereupon they returned unto the
Isle of St. Catharine, to visit the hundred men they
had left in garrison there. The Governour of
these men was a certain French-man named le
Sieur Simon; who behaved himself very well in
64
Insomuch that he had put the great Island in a
very good posture of defence; and the little
one he had caused to be cultivated with many
fertile Plantations, which were sufficient to revictual
the whole Fleet with Provisions and
Fruits, not onely for present refreshment, but also
in case of a new Voyage. Mansvelt's inclina-
tions were very much bent to keep these two Islands
in perpetual possession, as being very commodious,
and profitably situated for the use of
the Pirats. Chiefly because they were so near
unto the Spanish Dominions, and easily to be
defended against them; as I shall represent in
the third part of this History more at large, in a
Copper Plate, delineated for this purpose.
Hereupon Mansvelt determined to return unto
Jamaica, with designe to send some Recruit
unto the Isle of St. Catharine, that in case of any
invasion of the Spaniards, the Pirats might be
provided for a defence. As soon as he arrived,
he propounded his mind and intentions unto the
Governour of that Island; but he liked not the
Propositions of Mansvelt, fearing lest by granting
such things, he should displease his Master
the King of England. Besides, that giving him
the men he desired, and other necessaries for that
purpose, he must of necessity diminish and weaken
the Forces of that Island whereof he was
65
of the Governour of Jamaica, and that of his own
accord he could not compass what he desired,
with the same intent and designs went unto
the Isle of Tortuga. But there, before he could
accomplish his desires, or put in execution what
was intended, Death suddenly surprized him, and
put a period to his wicked life; all things hereby
remaining in suspense, until the occasion which
I shall hereafter relate.
Le Sieur Simon, who remained at the Isle of
St. Catharine in quality of Governour thereof, receiving
no news from Mansvelt his Admiral, was
greatly impatient, and desirous to know what
might be the cause thereof. In the mean while,
Don John Perez de Guzman, being newly come to
ways convenient for the interest of the King of
Spain, that that Island should remain in the hands
of the Pirats. And hereupon he equipped a considerable
Fleet, which he sent unto the said Island
to retake it. But before he came to use any
great violence, he writ a Letter unto le Sieur Si-
mon, wherein he gave him to understand, if he
would surrender the Island unto his Catholick
Majesty, he should be very well rewarded; but
in case of refusal, severely punished when he had
forced him to do it. Le Sieur Simon seeing no
appearance or probability of being able to defend
66
could accrew either unto him or his People; after
some small resistance, delivered up the Island into
the hands of its true Lord and Master, under
the same Articles they had obtained it from the
Spaniards. Few days after the surrendry of the
Island, there arrived from Jamaica an English
Ship which the Governour of the said Island had
sent under-hand, wherein was a good supply of
people, both men and women. The Spaniards
from the Castle having espied this Ship, but forth
the English Colours, and perswaded le Sieur Simon
to go on board, and conduct the said Ship into a
Port they assigned him. This he performed
immediately with dissimulation, whereby they
were all made Prisoners. A certain Spanish Enginier
hath published, before me, an exact Account
and Relation of the retaking of the Isle of St.
Catharine by the Spaniards; which printed Paper
being fallen into my hands, I have thought it fit
to be inserted here.
A true Relation and particular Account of the Victory
obtained by the Arms of his Catholick Majesty
against the English Pirats, by the direction
and valour of Don John Perez de Guzman,
Knight of the Order of St. James, Governour and
Captain-General of Tierra Firme, and the Province
of Veraguas.
67
THe Kingdom of Tierra Firme, which of it
self is sufficiently strong to repulse and
extirpate great Fleets, but more especially the
Pirats of Jamaica, had several ways notice, under
several hands, imparted to the Governour thereof,
that fourteen English Vessels did cruze upon
the Coasts belonging to his Catholick Majesty.
The 14th day of July, 1665. news came unto
Panama, that the English Pirats of the said Fleet
were arrived at Puerto de Naos, and had forced
the Spanish Garrison of the Isle of St. Catharine,
whose Governour was Don Estevan del Campo;
and that they had possessed themselves of the
said Island, taking Prisoners the Inhabitants, and
destroying all that ever they met. Moreover, about
the same time Don John Perez de Guzman
received particular information of these Robberies
from the relation of some Spaniards who escaped
out of the Island, (and whom he order'd
to be conveyed unto Puerto Velo) who more distinctly
told him, That the aforementioned Pirats
came into the Island the second day of May,
by night, without being perceived by any body:
And that the next day, after some disputes by
Arms, they had taken the Fortresses, and made
Prisoners all the Inhabitants and Souldiers, not
one excepted, unless those that by good fortune
had escaped their hands. This being heard by
68
he declared the great progress the said Pirats had
made in the Dominions of his Catholick Majesty.
Here likewise he propounded, That it was absolutely
necessary to send some Forces unto the Isle of
St. Catharine, sufficient to retake it from the Pirats;
the Honour and Interest of his Majesty of Spain being
very narrowly concerned herein. Otherwise
the Pirats by such Conquests might easily, in course
of time, possess themselves of all the Countries thereabouts.
Unto these Reasons some were found,
who made answer, That the Pirats, as not being
able to subsist in the said Island, would of necessity
consume and waste themselves, and be fo ced to quit
it, without any necessity of retaking it. That consequently
it was not worth the while to engage in so
many expences and troubles, as might be foreseen this
would cost. Notwithstanding these Reasons to
the contrary, Don John, as one who was an expert
and valiant Souldier, gave orders that quantity
of Provisions should be conveyed unto Puerto
Velo, for the use and service of the Militia. And
neither to be idle nor negligent in his Masters
Affairs, he transported himself thither, with no
small danger of his life. Here he arrived the seventh
day of July, with most things necessary to
the expedition in hand; where he found in the
Port a good Ship, called St. Vincent, that belonged
unto the Company of the Negro's. This Ship
69
with Guns, he manned and victualled very well,
and sent unto the Isle of St. Catharine, constituting
Captain Joseph Sanchez Ximenez, Major of
the City of Puerto Velo, Commander thereof.
The people he carried with him were two hundred
threescore and ten Souldiers, and thirty seven
Prisoners of the same Island: Besides four
and thirty Spaniards belonging to the Garrison
of Puerto Velo, nine and twenty Mulato's of Panama,
twelve Indians very dexterous at shooting
with Bows and Arrows, seven expert and able
Gunners, two Lieutenants, two Pilots, one Chirurgeon,
and one Religious man of the Order
of St. Francis, for their Chaplain.
Don John soon after gave his orders unto every
one of the Officers, instructing them how
they ought to behave themselves; telling them
withal, that the Governour of Cartagena would
assist and supply them with more Men, Boats, and
all things else they should find necessary for that
Enterprize; to which effect he had already written
unto the said Governour. On the 24th day
of the said month, Don John commanded the
Ship to weigh Anchor, and sail out of the Port.
Then seeing a fair Wind to blow, he called before
him all the People designed for that Expedition,
and made them a Speech, encouraging
them to fight against the Enemies of their Country
70
those inhumane Pirats, who had heretofore committed
so many horrid and cruel actions against
the Subjects of his Catholick Majesty. Withal,
promising unto every one of them most liberal
Rewards; but especially unto such as should behave
themselves as they ought in the service
of their King and Country. Thus Don John
bid them farewel; and immediately the Ship
weighed Anchor, and set sail under a favourable
gale of Wind. The 22th of the said month
they arrived at Cartagena, and presented a Letter
unto the Governour of the said City from the
noble and valiant Don John; who received it,
with testimonies of great affection unto the person
of Don John, and his Majesty's service. And
seeing their resolute Courage to be conformable
to his desires and expectation, he promised them
his assistance, which should be with one Frigat,
one Galeon, one Boat, and one hundred and
twenty six men, the one half out of his own Garison,
and the other half Mulato's. Thus all of
them being well provided with necessaries, they
set forth from the Port of Cartagena, the second
day of August; and the 10th of the said month
they arrived within sight of the Isle of St. Catharine,
towards the Western point thereof. And
although the Wind was contrary, yet they reached
the Port, and came to an Anchor within it;
71
at the Rock called Quita signos.
The Pirats seeing our Ships come to an Anchor,
gave them presently three Guns with Bullets;
the which were soon answered in the same
coin. Hereupon the Major Joseph Sanchez Ximenez
sent on shore, unto the Pirats, one of his
Officers, to require them, in the name of the Catholick
King his Master, to surrender the Island,
seeing they had taken it in the midst of Peace
between the two Crowns of Spain and England;
and that in case they would be obstinate, he
would certainly put them all to the Sword. The
Pirats made answer, That Island had once before
belonged unto the Government and Dominions
of the King of England; and that instead of surrendring
it, they preferred to lose their lives.
On Friday the 13th of the said month, three
Negro's, from the Enemy, came swimming aboard
our Admiral. These brought intelligence, that
all the Pirats that were upon the Island were only
threescore and twelve in number; and that
they were under a great consternation, seeing
such considerable Forces come against them.
With this intelligence the Spaniards resolved to
land, and advance towards the Fortresses; the
which ceased not to fire as many great Guns against
them, as they possibly could; which were
corresponded in the same manner on our side, till
72
month, which was the day of the Assumption of
our Lady, the weather being very calm and clear,
the Spaniards began to advance thus. The Ship
named St. Vincent, which rid Admiral, discharged
two whole broad-sides upon the Battery called the
Conception. The Ship called St. Peter, that was
Vice-Admiral, discharged likewise her Guns against
the other Battery named St. James. In
the mean while, our People were landed in small
Boats, directing their course towards the point of
the Battery last mentioned, and from thence they
marched towards the Gate called Cortadura. The
Lieutenant Francis de Cazeres, being desirous to
view the strength of the Enemy, with onely fifteen
men, was compelled to retreat in all haste,
by reason of the great Guns which played so furiously
upon the place where he stood. They
shooting not onely pieces of Iron and small Bullets,
but also the Organs of the Church, discharging
in every shot, threescore Pipes at a time.
Notwithstanding this heat of the Enemy, Captain
Don Joseph Ramirez de Leyva, with threescore
men, made a strong Attack, wherein they
fought on both sides very desperately, till that
at last he overcame, and forced the Pirats to surrender
the Fort he had taken in hand.
On the other side, Captain John Galeno, with
fourscore and ten men, passed over the Hills, to
73
In the mean while, the Major Don Joseph
Sanchez Ximenez, as Commander in chief, with
the rest of his men, set forth from the Battery of
St. James, passing the Port with four Boats, and
landing in despite of the Enemy. About this
same time, Captain John Galeno began to advance
with the men he led unto the forementioned
Fortress. So that our men made three Attacks
upon the Enemy, on three several sides, at one
and the same time, with great courage and valour.
Thus the Pirats seeing many of their men
already kill'd, and that they could in no manner
subsist any longer, retreated towards Cortadura,
where they surrendred themselves, and
likewise the whole Island, into our hands. Our
People possessed themselves of all, and set up the
Spanish Colours, as soon as they had rendred
thanks to God Almighty for the Victory obtained
on such a signalized day. The number of
dead were six men of the Enemies, with many
wounded, and threescore and ten Prisoners. On
our side was found onely one man kill'd, and
four wounded.
There was found upon the Island eight hundred
pound of Powder, two hundred and fifty
pound of small Bullets, with many other Military
Provisions. Among the Prisoners were taken
also two Spaniards, who had born Arms
74
These were commanded to be shot to death the
next day by order of the Major. The 10th day
of September arrived at the Isle an English Vessel,
which being seen at a great distance by the Major,
he gave order unto le Sieur Simon, who was
a French-man, to go and visit the said Ship, and
tell them that were on board, the Island belonged
still unto the English. He performed the commands,
and found in the said Ship onely fourteen
men, one woman, and her daughter; who were
all instantly made Prisoners.
The English Pirats were all transported unto
Puerto Velo; excepting onely three, who by order
of the Governour were carried to Panama,
there to work in the Castle of St. Jerom. This
Fortification is an excellent piece of Workmanship,
and very strong; being raised in the middle
of the Port, of quadrangular form, and of very
hard stone. Its elevation or heighth is of eighty
eight geometrical feet; the Walls being of fourteen,
and the Curtains of seventy five feet diameter.
It was built at the expences of several
private persons, the Governour of the City furnishing
the greatest part of the money; so that it
did not cost his Majesty any sum at all.
75
Chap. V.
Some account of the Island of Cuba. Capt.
Morgan attempteth to preserve the Isle
of St. Catharine, as a Refuge and
Nest unto Pirats; but faileth of his designes.
He arriveth at and taketh the
Village of el Puerto del Principe.
CAptain Morgan seeing his Predecessour and
as much as he could, and used all the means that
were possible, to preserve and keep in perpetual
possession the Isle of St. Catharine, seated nigh unto
that of Cuba. His principal intent was to
consecrate it as a Refuge and Sanctuary unto the
Pirats of those parts; putting it in a sufficient
condition of being a convenient Receptacle or
Store-house of their Preys and Robberies. Unto
this effect he left no stone unmov'd whereby
to compass his designes, writing for the same purpose
unto several Merchants that lived in Virginia
and New England, and perswading them to send
him Provisions and other necessary things, towards
the putting the said Island in such a posture
76
dangers, nor be moved at any suspitions of invasion
from any side, that might attempt to dis-
quiet it. At last all his thoughts and cares proved
ineffectual, by the Spaniards retaking the
said Island. Yet notwithstanding, Captain Morgan
retained his ancient courage, which instantly
put him upon new designes. Thus he equipped
at first a Ship, with intention to gather an entire
Fleet, both as great and as strong as he could
compass. By degrees he put the whole matter
in execution, and gave order unto every member
of his Fleet, they should meet at a certain
Port of Cuba. Here he determined to call a
Council, and deliberate concerning what were
best to be done, and what place first they should
fall upon. Leaving these new preparations in
this condition, I shall here give my Reader some
small account of the aforementioned Isle of Cuba,
in whose Ports this expedition was hatched, seeing
I omitted to do it in its proper place.
The Island of Cuba lieth from East to West,
in the altitude and situation of twenty unto
three and twenty degrees, Northern latitude;
being in length one hundred and fifty German
leagues, and about forty in breadth. Its Fertility
is equal unto that of the Island of Hispaniola.
Besides which, it affordeth many things proper
for Trading and Commerce, such as are Hides
77
are called Hides of Havana. On all sides it is
surrounded with a great number of small Islands,
which go all together under the name of Cayos.
Of these little Islands the Pirats make great use, as
of their own proper Ports of refuge. Here most
commonly they make their Meetings, and hold
their Councils, how to assault more easily the
Spaniards. It is thorowly irrigated on all sides
with the streams of plentiful and pleasant Rivers,
whose entries do form both secure and spacious
Ports. Besides many other Harbours for Ships,
which along the calm shores and coasts do adorn
many parts of this rich and beautiful Island. All
which, contribute very much unto its happiness,
by facilitating the exercise of Trade; whereunto
they invite both Natives and Aliens. The chiefest
of these Ports are San Tiago, Bayame, Santa
Maria, Espiritu Santo, Trinidad, Xagoa, Cabo de
Corrientes, and others; all which are seated on
the South-side of the Island. On the Northern
side hereof are found these following: La Havana,
Puerto Mariano, Santa Cruz, Mata Ricos,
and Barracoa.
This Island hath two principal Cities, by which
all the Towns and Villages thereof do give obedience.
The first of these is named San Tiago,
or St. James, being seated on the South-side, and
78
sland. The chief Magistrates hereof are a Bishop
and a Governour, who command over the
Villages and Towns belonging to the half abovementioned.
The chiefest of these are, on the
Southern side, Espiritu Santo, Puerto de el Principe,
and Bayame. On the North-side it hath
Barracoa, and the Town called de los Cayos. The
greatest part of the Commerce driven at the aforementioned
City of San Tiago, cometh from
the Canary-Islands; whither they transport great
quantity of Tobacco, Sugar, and Hides: which
sorts of Merchandize are drawn to the head-City
from the subordinate Towns and Villages. In
former times this City of San Tiago was miserably
sack'd by the Pirats of Jamaica and Tortuga;
notwithstanding that it is defended by a considerable
Castle.
The City and Port de la Havana lieth between
one of the renownedst and strongest places of all
the West Indies. Its jurisdiction extendeth over
the other half of the Island; the chiefest places
under it being Santa Cruz on the Northern side,
and la Trinidad on the South. From hence is
transported huge quantity of Tobacco; which is
sent in great plenty unto New Spain and Costa
Rica, even as far as the South-Sea. Besides many
Ships laden with this Commodity, that are
79
onely in the leaf, but also in rowls. This City
is defended by three Castles, very great and
strong; two of which lie towards the Port, and
the other is seated upon a hill that commandeth
the Town. 'Tis esteemed to contain ten thousand
Families, more or less; among which number
of people, the Merchants of this place trade
in New Spain, Campeche, Honduras, and Horida.
All the Ships that come from the parts aforementioned,
as also from Caracas, Cartagena, and Costa
Rica, are necessitated to take their Provisions
in at Havana, wherewith to make their Voyage
for Spain; this being the necessary and streight
course they ought to steer for the South of Europe,
and other parts. The Plate-Fleet of Spain, which
the Spaniards call Flôta, being homeward bound,
toucheth here yearly, to take in the rest of their
full Cargo, as Hides, Tobacco, and Campechewood.
Captain Morgan had been no longer than two
months in the abovementioned Ports of the South
of Cuba, when he had got together a Fleet of
wherein he had seven hundred fighting men, part
of which were English, and part French. They
called a Council; and some were of opinion,
'twere convenient to assault the City of Havana,
under the obscurity of the night. Which Enterprize,
80
especially if they could but take any few of the
Ecclesiasticks, and make them Prisoners. Yea,
that the City might be sack'd, before the Castles
could put themselves in a posture of defence.
Others propounded, according to their several
opinions, other attempts. Notwithstanding, the
former Proposal was rejected, because many of
the Pirats had been Prisoners at other times in
the said City; and these affirmed, nothing of
consequence could be done, unless with fifteen
hundred men. Moreover, that with all this number
of people, they ought first to go unto the Island
de los Pinos, and land them in small Boats
about Matamano, fourteen leagues distant from
the aforesaid City, whereby to accomplish by
these means and order their designes.
Finally, they saw no possibility of gathering so
great a Fleet; and hereupon, with that they
had, they concluded to attempt some other
who propounded, they should go and assault the
Town of el Puerto de el Principe. This Proposition
he endeavoured to perswade, by saying, he
knew that place very well; and that being at
a distance from the Sea, it never was sack'd by a-
ny Pirats; whereby the Inhabitants were rich, as
exercising their Trade for ready money, with
those of Havana, who kept here an established
[ILLUSTRATION]
81
Proposal was presently admitted by Captain Morgan,
and the chiefest of his Companions. And
hereupon they gave order unto every Captain to
weigh Anchor and set sail, steering their course
towards that coast that lieth nearest unto el Puerto
de el Principe. Hereabouts is to be seen a
Bay, named by the Spaniards, el Puerto de Santa
Maria. Being arrived at this Bay, a certain Spaniard,
who was Prisoner on board the Fleet,
swam ashore by night, and came unto the Town
of Puerto del Principe, giving account unto the
Inhabitants of the designe the Pirats had against
them. This he affirmed to have over-heard in
their discourse, mean while they thought he did
not understand the English Tongue. The Spaniards,
as soon as they received this fortunate advice,
began instantly to hide their Riches, and
carry away what Movables they could. The
Governour also immediately raised all the people
of the Town, both Freemen and Slaves; and
with part of them took a Post by which of necessity
the Pirats were to pass. He commanded
likewise many Trees to be cut down and laid amidst
the ways, to hinder their passage. In like
manner he placed several Ambuscades, which
were strengthened with some pieces of Cannon,
to play upon them on their march. He gathered
in all, about eight hundred men, of which he
82
and with the rest he begirt the Town;
displaying them upon the plain of a spacious
Field, from whence they could see the coming of
the Pirats at length.
Captain Morgan, with his men, being now
upon the march, found the avenues and passages
unto the Town impenetrable. Hereupon they
took their way through the Wood, traversing
it with great difficulty, whereby they escaped
divers Ambuscades. Thus at last they came into
the Plain aforementioned; which, from its figure,
is called by the Spaniards, la Savana, or
the Sheet. The Governour seeing them come,
made a detachment of a Troop of Horse; which
he sent to charge them in the front, thinking to
disperse them, and by putting them to flight,
pursue them with his main Body. But this designe
succeeded not as it was intended. For the
Pirats marched in very good rank and file, at the
sound of their Drums, and with flying Colours.
When they came nigh unto the Horse, they
drew into the form of a Semicircle, and thus advanced
towards the Spaniards; who charged
them like valiant and couragious Souldiers for
some while. But seeing that the Pirats were very
dexterous at their Arms, and their Governour,
with many of their Companions, killed, they began
to retreat towards the Wood. Here they
83
but before they could reach it, the greatest
part of them were unfortunately killed by the
hands of the Pirats. Thus they left the Victory
unto these new-come Enemies, who had no considerable
loss of men in this Battel, and but very
few wounded, howbeit the Skirmish continued
for the space of four hours. They entred the
Town, though not without great resistance of
such as were within; who defended themselves
as long as was possible, thinking by their defence
to hinder the pillage. Hereupon, many seeing
the Enemy within the Town, shut themselves
up in their own houses, and from thence made
several shot against the Pirats. Who perceiving
the mischief of this disadvantage, presently began
to threaten them, saying, If you surrender not
voluntarily, you shall soon see the Town in a Flame,
and your wives and children torn in pieces before
your faces. With these Menaces the Spaniards
submitted entirely unto the discretion of the Pirats;
believing they could not continue there
long, and would soon be forced to dislodge.
As soon as the Pirats had possessed themselves
of the Town, they enclosed all the Spaniards,
both men, women, children, and slaves, in several
Churches; and gathered all the Goods they
could find by way of pillage. Afterwards they
searched the whole Country round about the
84
Prisoners, with much Provision. With this they
fell to banquetting among themselves, and making
great Chear, after their customary way;
without remembring the poor Prisoners, whom
they permitted to starve in the Churches for hunger.
In the mean while they ceased not to torment
them dayly after an inhumane manner,
thereby to make them confess where they had
hid their Goods, Moneys, and other things;
though little or nothing was left them. Unto
this effect they punished also the women and little
children, given them nothing to eat; whereby
the greatest part perished.
When they could find no more to rob, and
that Provisions began to grow scarce, they thought
it convenient to depart, and seek new fortunes
in other places. Hence they intimated to the
Prisoners, They should find moneys to ransom themselves,
else they should be all transported to Jamaica.
Which being done, if they did not pay a second Ransom
for the Town, they would turn every house into
ashes. The Spaniards hearing these severe
Menaces, nominated among themselves four fellow-Prisoners
to go and seek for the abovementioned
Contributions. But the Pirats, to the intent
they should return speedily with the Ransoms
prescribed, tormented several in their presence,
before they departed, with all the rigour
85
from the fatigue of their unreasonable
Commissions, telling Captain Morgan, We have
ran up and down, and searched all the neighbouring
Woods and places we most suspected, and yet have
not been able to find any of our own Party, nor consequently
any fruit of our Embassie. But if you are
pleased to have a little longer patience with us, we
shall certainly cause all that you demand, to be paid
within the space of fifteen days. Captain Morgan
was contented, as it should seem, to grant them
this Petition. But not long after, there came into
the Town seven or eight Pirats, who had been
ranging in the Woods and Fields, and got thereabouts
some considerable Booty. These brought
among other Prisoners, a certain Negro, whom
they had taken with Letters about him. Cap-
tain Morgan having perused them, found they
were from the Governour of San Tiago, being
written unto some of the Prisoners; wherein he
told them, They should not make too much haste to
pay any Ransom for their Town or Persons, or any
other Pretext. But on the contrary, they should put
off the Pirats as well as they could with excuses and
delays; expecting to be relieved by him within a
short while, when he would certainly come to their
aid. This intelligence being heard by Captain
Morgan, he immediately gave orders, that all they
had robb'd should be carried on board the Ships.
86
very next day they should pay their Ransoms;
forasmuch as he would not wait one moment
longer, but reduce the whole Town to ashes, in
case they failed to perform the sum he demanded.
With this intimation, Captain Morgan made no
mention unto the Spaniards of the Letters he
had intercepted. Whereupon they made him
answer, That it was totally impossible for them to
give such a sum of money in so short a space of
time; seeing their fellow-Townsmen were not
to be found in all the Country thereabouts.
Captain Morgan knew full well their intentions;
and withal, thought it not convenient to remain
there any longer time. Hence he demanded of
them onely five hundred Oxen or Cows, together
with sufficient Salt wherewith to salt them.
Hereunto he added onely this condition, that they
promised to do. Thus he departed with all his
men, taking with him onely six of the principal
Prisoners, as Pledges of what he intended. The
next day the Spaniards brought the Cattle and
Salt unto the Ships, and required the Prisoners.
But Captain Morgan refused to deliver them, till
such time as they had helped his men to kill and
salt the Beeves. This was likewise performed in
great haste, he not caring to stay there any longer,
87
were gathering against him. Having received all
on board his Vessels, he set at liberty the Prisoners
he had kept as Hostages of his demands.
Mean while these things were in agitation, there
happened to arise some dissentions between the
English-men and the French. The occasion of
their discord was, as followeth: A certain French-
man being employed in killing and salting one
of the Beeves, an English Pirat came to him and
took away the Marrow-bones he had taken out
of the Ox; which sort of meat these people esteem
very much. Hereupon they challenged
one another. Being come unto the place of
duel, the English-man drew his Sword treacherously
against the French-man, wounding him in
the back, before he had put himself into a just
posture of defence; whereby he suddenly fell
dead upon the place. The other French-men,
desirous to revenge this base action, made an Insurrection
against the English. But Captain Morgan
soon extinguished this flame, by commanding
the Criminal to be bound in Chains, and
thus carried to Jamaica; promising to them all,
he would see justice done upon him. For although
it were permitted unto him to challenge
his Adversary, yet was it not lawful to kill him
treacherously, as he did.
As soon as all things were in a readiness, and
88
set at liberty, they sailed from thence, directing
their course to a certain Island, where Captain
Morgan intended to make a Dividend of
what they had purchased in that Voyage. Being
arrived at the place assigned, they found nigh the
value of fifty thousand Pieces of Eight, both in
money and goods. The sum being known, it
caused a general resentment and grief, to see such
a small purchase; which was not sufficient to
pay their Debts at Jamaica. Hereupon Captain
Morgan propounded unto them, they should
think upon some other Enterprize and Pillage,
before they returned home. But the Frenchmen
not being able to agree with the English,
separated from their company, leaving Captain
Morgan alone with those of his own Nation; notwithstanding
all the perswasions he used to reduce
them to continue in his company. Thus
they parted with all external signes of friendship;
Captain Morgan reiterating his promises unto
them, he would see justice done upon that Criminal.
This he performed: for being arrived at
Jamaica, he caused him to be hang'd; which
was all the satisfaction the French Pirats could
expect.
89
Chap. VI.
Captain Morgan resolveth to attack and
plunder the City of Puerto Velo.
Unto this effect he equippeth a Fleet, and,
with little Expence and small Forces, taketh
the said place.
SOme Nations may think, that the French ha-
alone could not have sufficient courage to attempt
such great Actions, as before. But Captain
Morgan, who always communicated Vigour with
his words, infused such Spirits into his men, as
were able to put every one of them instantly
upon new designes: They being all perswaded
by his Reasons, that the sole execution of his Orders,
would be a certain means of obtaining great
Riches. This perswasion had such influence upon
their minds, that with unimitable courage
they all resolved to follow him. The same likewise
did a certain Pirat of Campeche; who in
this occasion joyned with Captain Morgan, to
seek new fortunes under his conduct, and greater
advantages than he had found before. Thus
Captain Morgan, in a few days, gathered a
90
wherein he had four hundred and threescore military
men.
After that all things were in a good posture
of readiness, they put forth to Sea, Captain Mor-
no body for that present. He onely told
them on several occasions, that, he held as indubitable,
he should make a good fortune by that
Voyage, if strange occurrences altered not the
course of his designes. They directed their
course towards the Continent; where they arrived
in few days upon the coast of Costa Rica, with
all their Fleet entire. No sooner had they discovered
land, but Captain Morgan declared his intentions
to the Captains, and presently after unto
all the rest of the company. He told them,
he intended in that Expedition to plunder Puerto
Velo, and that he would perform it by night, being
resolved to put the whole City to the sack,
not the least corner escaping his diligence. Moreover,
to encourage them, he added, This Enterprize
could not fail to succeed well, seeing he had
kept it secret in his mind, without revealing it to
any body; whereby they could not have notice of
his coming. Unto this proposition some made
answer, They had not a sufficient number of men
wherewith to assault so strong and great a City.
But Captain Morgan replied, If our number is
91
we are, the more union and better shares we shall
have in the spoil. Hereupon, being stimulated
with the ambition of those vast Riches they promised
themselves from their good success, they
unanimously concluded to venture upon that designe.
But now, to the intent my Reader may
better comprehend the incomparable boldness of
this Exploit, it may be necessary to say something
before-hand of the City of Puerto Velo.
The City, which beareth this name in America,
altitude of ten degrees Northern latitude, at the
distance of fourteen leagues from the Gulf of
Darien, and eight Westwards from the Port called
Nombre de Dios. It is judged to be the strongest
place that the King of Spain possesseth in all
the West-Indies, excepting two, that is to say, Havana
and Cartagena. Here are two Castles, almost inexpugnable,
that defend the City, being situated at
the entry of the Port; so that no Ship nor Boat
can pass without permission. The Garison consisteth
of three hundred Souldiers, and the Town
constantly inhabited by four hundred Families,
more or less. The Merchants dwell not here,
but onely reside for a while, when the Galeons
come or go from Spain; by reason of the unhealthiness
of the Air, occasioned by certain Vapours
that exhale from the Mountains. Notwithstanding,
92
Velo, howbeit their Habitations be all the year
long at Panama. From whence they bring the
Plate upon Mules, at such times as the Fair beginneth;
and when the Ships, belonging to the
Company of Negro's, arrive here to sell Slaves.
Captain Morgan, who knew very well all the
Avenues of this City, as also all the neighbour-
the place called Puerto de Naos, distant ten leagues
towards the West of Puerto Velo. Being come
unto this place, they mounted the River in their
Ships, as far as another Harbour called Puerto
Pontin; where they came to an Anchor. Here
they put themselves immediately into Boats and
Canows, leaving in the Ships onely a few men to
keep them, and conduct them the next day unto
the Port. About midnight they came to a certain
place called Estera long a Lemos, where they
all went on shore, and marched by land to the
first Posts of the City. They had in their com-
pany a certain English-man, who had been formerly
a Prisoner in those parts, and who now served
them for a Guide. Unto him and three or
four more, they gave commission to take the
Centry, if possible, or kill him upon the place.
But they laid hands on him and apprehended him
with such cunning, as he had no time to give warning
with his Musket, or make any other noise.
93
unto Captain Morgan, who asked him, How things
went in the City, and what Forces they had: with
many other circumstances, which he was desirous
to know. After every question, they made him
a thousand menaces to kill him, in case he declared
not the truth. Thus they began to advance
towards the City, carrying always the said
Centry bound before them. Having marched
about one quarter of a league, they came unto
the Castle that is nigh unto the City; which presently
they closely surrounded, so that no per-
son could get either in or out of the said Fortress.
Being thus posted under the walls of the Castle,
Captain Morgan commanded the Centry,
whom they had taken Prisoner, to speak unto
those that were within, charging them to surrender,
and deliver themselves up to his discretion;
otherwise they should be all cut in pieces, without
giving quarter to any one. But they would
hearken to none of these threats, beginning instantly
to fire; which gave notice unto the City,
and this was suddenly alarm'd. Yet notwithstanding,
although the Governour and Souldiers
of the said Castle made as great resistance
as could be performed, they were constrained to
surrender unto the Pirats. These no sooner had
taken the Castle, but they resolved to be as good
94
Sword, thereby to strike a terrour into the rest
of the City. Hereupon, having shut up all the
Souldiers and Officers, as Prisoners, into one
Room, they instantly set fire unto the Powder
(whereof they found great quantity) and
blew up the whole Castle into the air, with all
the Spaniards that were within. This being
done, they pursued the course of their Victory,
falling upon the City, which as yet was not in order
to receive them. Many of the Inhabitants
cast their precious Jewels and Moneys into
Wells and Cisterns, or hid them in other places
under ground, to excuse, as much as were possible,
their being totally robb'd. One party of
the Pirats being assigned to this purpose, ran im-
mediately to the Cloisters, and took as many
Religious men and women as they could find.
The Governour of the City not being able to
rally the Citizens, through the huge confusion of
the Town, retired unto one of the Castles remaining,
and from thence began to fire incessantly
at the Pirats. But these were not in the least
negligent either to assault him, or defend themselves
with all the courage imaginable. Thus it
was observable, that amidst the horrour of the
Assault, they made very few shot in vain For
aiming with great dexterity at the mouths of the
Guns, the Spaniards were certain to lose one or
95
The assault of this Castle where the Governour
was, continued very furious on both sides,
from break of day until noon. Yea, about this
party should conquer or be conquered. At last
the Pirats perceiving they had lost many men,
and as yet advanced but little towards the gaining
either this or the other Castles remaining,
thought to make use of Fire-balls, which they
threw with their hands, designing, if possible, to
burn the doors of the Castle. But going about
to put this in execution, the Spaniards from the
Walls let fall great quantity of stones, and earthen
pots full of Powder, and other combustible
matter, which forced them to desist from that
attempt. Captain Morgan seeing this generous
defence made by the Spaniards, began to despair
of the whole success of the Enterprize. Hereupon
many faint and calm meditations came into
his mind; neither could he determine which
way to turn himself in that straitness of affairs.
Being involved in these thoughts, he was suddenly
animated to continue the Assault, by seeing the
English Colours put forth at one of the lesser
Castles, then entred by his men. Of whom he
presently after spied a Troop that came to meet
him, proclaiming Victory with loud shouts of
96
of making new efforts to take the rest of
the Castles that stood out against him: Especially
seeing the chiefest Citizens were fled unto
them, and had conveyed thither great part of
their Riches, with all the Plate belonging to the
Churches, and other things dedicated to Divine
Service.
Unto this effect therefore he ordered ten or
twelve Ladders to be made, in all possible haste,
so broad, that three or four men at once might
ascend by them. These being finished, he commanded
all the Religious men and women whom
he had taken Prisoners, to fix them against the
walls of the Castle. Thus much he had beforehand
threatned the Governour to perform, in
case he delivered not the Castle. But his answer
was, He would never surrender himself alive. Captain
Morgan was much perswaded that the Governour
would not employ his utmost Forces, seeing
Religious women, and Ecclesiastical persons,
exposed in the front of the Souldiers to the greatest
dangers. Thus the Ladders, as I have said,
were put into the hands of Religious persons of
both Sexes; and these were forced, at the head
of the Companies, to raise and apply them to the
Walls. But Captain Morgan was fully deceived
in his judgment of this designe. For the Governour,
who acted like a brave and couragious
97
to use his utmost endeavours to destroy whosoever
came near the Walls. The Religious men
and women ceased not to cry unto him and beg
of him by all the Saints of Heaven, he would
deliver the Castle, and hereby spare both his and
their own lives. But nothing could prevail with
the obstinacy and fierceness that had possessed
the Governour's mind. Thus many of the Religious
men and Nuns were killed before they
could fix the Ladders. Which at last being
done, though with great loss of the said Religi-
ous people, the Pirats mounted them in great
numbers, and with no less valour; having Fireballs
in their hands, and Earthen-pots full of
Powder. All which things, being now at the
top of the Walls, they kindled and cast in among
the Spaniards.
This effort of the Pirats was very great: Insomuch
as the Spaniards could no longer resist
nor defend the Castle, which was now entred.
Hereupon they all threw down their Arms, and
craved quarter for their lives. Onely the Go-
mercy; but rather killed many of the Pirats
with his own hands, and not a few of his own
Souldiers, because they did not stand to their
Arms. And although the Pirats asked him if he
would have quarter, yet he constantly answer'd,
98
than be hanged as a Coward. They endeavoured,
as much as they could, to take him Prisoner.
But he defended himself so obstinately,
as that they were forced to kill him; notwith-
standing all the cries and tears of his own Wife
and Daughter, who begged of him upon their
knees he would demand quarter and save his
life. When the Pirats had possessed themselves
of the Castle, which was about night, they enclosed
therein all the Prisoners they had taken,
placing the women and men by themselves, with
some Guards upon them. All the wounded
were put into a certain apartment by it self, to
the intent their own complaints might be the cure
of their diseases; for no other was afforded
them.
This being done, they fell to eating and drin-
committing in both these things all manner of debauchery
and excess. These two vices were
immediately followed by many insolent actions
of Rape and Adultery committed upon many
very honest women, as well married as Virgins:
Who being threatned with the Sword, were constrained
to submit their bodies to the violence of
those lewd and wicked men. After such manner
they delivered themselves up unto all sort of
debauchery of this kind, that if there had been
99
easily have retaken the City, and killed all the
Pirats. The next day, having plundred all they
could find, they began to examine some of the
prisoners (who had been perswaded by their
Companions to say, they were the richest of the
Town) charging them severely, to discover
where they had hidden their Riches and Goods.
But not being able to extort any thing out of
them, as who were not the right persons that possessed
any wealth, they at last resolved to tor-
ture them. This they performed with such cruelty,
that many of them died upon the Rack, or
presently after. Soon after, the President of
Panama had news brought him of the pillage and
ruine of Puerto Velo. This intelligence caused
him to employ all his care and industry to raise
Forces, with designe to pursue and cast out the
Pirats from thence. But these cared little for
what extraordinary means the President used, as
having their Ships nigh at hand, and being determined
to set fire unto the City, and retreat.
They had now been at Puerto Velo fifteen days,
in which space of time they had lost many of
their men, both by the unhealthiness of the Country,
and the extravagant Debaucheries they had
committed.
Hereupon they prepared for a departure, car-
100
Fleet with sufficient Victuals for the Voyage.
While these things were getting ready, Captain
Morgan sent an Injunction unto the Prisoners,
that they should pay him a Ransom for the City,
or else he would by fire consume it to ashes, and
blow up all the Castles into the air. Withal,
he commanded them to send speedily two persons
to seek and procure the sum he demanded,
which amounted unto one hundred thousand
Pieces of Eight. Unto this effect, two men
were sent to the President of Panama, who gave
him an account of all these Tragedies. The Pre-
sident having now a body of men in a readiness,
set forth immediately towards Puerto Velo, to encounter
the Pirats before their retreat. But
these people hearing of his coming, instead of
flying away, went out to meet him at a narrow
passage through which of necessity he ought to
pass. Here they placed an hundred men very
well arm'd; the which, at the first Encounter,
put to flight a good party of those of Panama.
This Accident obliged the President to retire for
that time, as not being yet in a posture of strength
to proceed any farther. Presently after this
Rencounter, he sent a Message unto Captain
Morgan, to tell him, That in case he departed not
suddenly with all his Forces from Puerto Velo, he
ought to expect no quarter for himself nor his Com-
101
soon to do. Captain Morgan, who feared not his
threats, as knowing he had a secure retreat in his
Ships which were nigh at hand, made him answer.
He would not deliver the Castles, before he
had received the Contribution-money he had demanded.
Which in case it were not paid down, he
would certainly burn the whole City, and then leave
it; demolishing before-hand the Castles, and killing
the Prisoners.
The Governour of Panama perceived by this
Answer, no means would serve to mollifie the
hearts of the Pirats, nor reduce them to reason.
Hereupon he determined to leave them; as also
those of the City, whom he came to relieve, involved
in the difficulties of making the best agreement
they could with their Enemies. Thus
in few days more, the miserable Citizens gathered
the Contribution wherein they were fined,
and brought the entire sum of one hundred thou-
of the cruel Captivity they were fallen into.
But the President of Panama, by these transactions,
was brought into an extream admiration,
considering that four hundred men had been able
to take such a great City, with so many strong
Castles: especially seeing they had no pieces of
Cannon, nor other great Guns, wherewith to
raise Batteries against them. And what was
102
had always great repute of being good Souldiers
themselves, and who had never wanted courage
in their own defence. This astonishment was so
great, that it occasion'd him, for to be satisfied
herein, to send a Messenger unto Captain Morgan,
desiring him to send him some small pattern
of those Arms wherewith he had taken with such
violence so great a City. Captain Morgan received
this Messenger very kindly, and treated him
with great civility. Which being done, he gave
him a Pistol and a few small Bullets of lead, to
carry back unto the President his Master, telling
him withal, He desired him to accept that slender
pattern of the Arms wherewith he had taken Puerto
Velo, and keep them for a twelvemonth; after
which time, he promised to come to Panama and
fetch them away. The Governour of Panama
returned the Present very soon unto Captain Morgan,
giving him thanks for the favour of lending
him such Weapons as he needed not, and withal
sent him a Ring of Gold, with this Message,
That he desired him not to give himself the labour
of coming to Panama, as he had done to Puerto Velo;
for he did certifie unto him, he should not
speed so well here as he had done there.
After these transactions, Captain Morgan (having
provided his Fleet with all necessaries, and
taken with him the best Guns of the Castles, nailing
103
sail from Puerto Velo with all his Ships. With
these he arrived in few days unto the Island of
Cuba, where he sought out a place wherein with
all quiet and repose he might make the Dividend
of the Spoil they had gotten. They found in
ready money two hundred and fifty thousand
Pieces of Eight; besides all other Merchandizes,
as Cloth, Linnen, Silks, and other Goods. With
this rich Purchase they sailed again from thence
unto their common place of Rendezvouz, Jamaica.
Being arrived, they passed here some
time in all sorts of Vices and Debauchery, according
to their common manner of doing, spending
with huge prodigality what others had gained
with no small labour and toil.
104
Chap. VII.
Captain Morgan taketh the City of Maracaibo
on the Coast of Nueva Venezuela.
Piracies committed in those
Seas. Ruine of three Spanish Ships,
that were set forth to hinder the Robberies
of the Pirats.
NOt long after the arrival of the Pirats at
Jamaica, being precisely that short time
they needed to lavish away all the Riches abovementioned,
they concluded upon another Enterprize
whereby to seek new fortunes. Unto this
effect, Captain Morgan gave orders to all the
Commanders of his Ships to meet together at the
Island called de la Vaca, or Cow-Isle, seated on the
South-side of the Isle of Hisplaniola; as hath been
mentioned above. As soon as they came to this
place, there flocked unto them great numbers of
other Pirats, both French and English, by reason
the name of Captain Morgan was now rendred famous
in all the neighbouring Countries, for the
great Enterprizes he had perform'd. There was
at that present at Jamaica, an English Ship newly
105
thirty six Guns. This Vessel likewise, by order
of the Governour of Jamaica, came to joyn with
Captain Morgan to strengthen his Fleet, and give
him greater courage to attempt things of huge
consequence. With this supply Captain Morgan
judged himself sufficiently strong, as having
a Ship of such port, being the greatest of his
Fleet, in his Company. Notwithstanding, there
being in the same place another great Vessel that
carried twenty four iron Guns, and twelve of
brass, belonging unto the French, Captain Morgan
endeavoured as much as he could to joyn this
Ship in like manner unto his own. But the
French not daring to repose any trust in the English,
of whose actions they were not a little jealous,
denied absolutely to consent unto any such
thing.
The French Pirats belonging to this great Ship
had accidentally met at Sea an English Vessel:
And being then under an extream necessity of
Victuals, they had taken some provisions out of
the English Ship, without paying for them, as
having peradventure no ready money on board.
Onely they had given them Bills of Exchange,
for Jamaica and Tortuga, to receive money there
for what they had taken. Captain Morgan having
notice of this Accident, and perceiving he
could not prevail with the French Captain to
106
hold on this occasion, as a pretext to ruine the
French, and seek his own revenge. Hereupon
he invited, with dissimulation, the French Commander
and several of his men to dine with him
on board the great Ship that was come from Jamaica,
as was said before. Being come thither,
he made them all Prisoners, pretending the injury
aforementioned done to the English Vessel, in
taking away some few provisions without pay.
This unjust action of Captain Morgan was soon
followed by divine punishment, as we may very
rationally conceive. The manner I shall instantly
relate. Captain Morgan, presently after he
had taken the French prisoners abovesaid, called
a Council to deliberate what place they should
first pitch upon, in the course of this new Expedition.
At this Council it was determined to go
to the Isle of Savona, there to wait for the Flota
which was then expected from Spain, and take
any of the Spanish Vessels that might chance to
straggle from the rest. This resolution being
taken, they began on board the great Ship to
feast one another for joy of their new Voyage
and happy Council, as they hoped it would
prove. In testimony hereof, they drank many
Healths, and discharged many Guns, as the common
signe of mirth among Seamen used to be.
Most of the men being drunk, by what accident
107
into the air, with three hundred and fifty Englishmen,
besides the French prisoners abovementioned
that were in the Hold. Of all which number,
there escaped onely thirty men, who were
in the great Cabin, at some distance from the
main force of the powder. Many more, 'tis
thought, might have escaped, had they not been
so much overtaken with Wine.
The loss of such a great Ship brought much
consternation and conflict of mind upon the English.
They knew not whom to blame; but
at last the accusation was laid upon the French
powder of the Ship wherein they were, out of
designe to revenge themselves, though with the
loss of their own lives. Hereupon they sought
to be revenged on the French anew, and accumulate
new accusations unto the former, whereby
to seize the Ship and all that was in it. With
this designe they forged another pretext against
the said Ship, by saying the French designed to
commit piracy upon the English. The grounds
of this Accusation were given them by a Commission
from the Governour of Barracoa, found on
board the French Vessel, wherein were these
words: That the said Governour did permit the
French to trade in all Spanish Ports, &c.—————
As also to cruze upon the English Pirats in what
108
multitude of Hostilities which they had committed
against the Subjects of his Catholick Majesty, in time
of Peace betwixt the two Crowns. This Commission
for Trade was interpreted by the English
as an express Order to exercise Piracy and War
against them, notwithstanding it was onely a bare
License for coming into the Spanish Ports; the
cloak of which permission, were those words inserted,
That they should cruze upon the English.
And although the French did sufficiently expound
the true sence of the said Commission, yet
they could not clear themselves unto Captain
Morgan, nor his Council. But in lieu hereof, the
Ship and men were seized and sent unto Jamaica.
Here they also endeavoured to obtain Justice,
and the restitution of their Ship, by all the means
possible. But all was in vain: for instead of Justice,
they were long time detained in Prison, and
threatned with hanging.
Eight days after the loss of the said Ship, Captain
Morgan commanded the bodies of the miserable
wretches who were blown up, to be searched
for, as they floated upon the waters of the
Sea. This he did, not out of any designe of affording
them Christian burial, but onely to obtain
the spoil of their Cloaths and other Attire.
And if any had golden Rings on their fingers,
these were cut off for purchase, leaving them in
109
Monsters of the Sea. At last they set sail for the
Isle of Savona, being the place of their assigna-
tion. They were in all fifteen Vessels, Captain
Morgan commanding the biggest, which carried
onely fourteen small Guns. The number of
men belonging to this Fleet, were nine hundred
and threescore. In few days after, they arrived
at the Cape called Cabo de Lobos, on the Southside
of the Isle of Hispaniola, between Cape Tiburen
and Cape Punta de Espada. From hence they
could not pass, by reason of contrary winds that
continued the space of three weeks, notwithstanding
all the endeavours Captain Morgan used
to get forth, leaving no means unattempted thereunto.
At the end of this time they doubled the
Cape, and presently after spied an English Vessel
at a distance. Having spoken with her, they
found she came from England, and bought of her,
for ready money, some Provisions they stood in
need of.
Captain Morgan proceeded in the course of
his Voyage, till he came unto the Port of Ocoa.
into the Woods to seek water, and what Provisions
they could find; the better to spare such as
he had already on board his Fleet. They killed
many Beasts, and among other Animals some
Horses. But the Spaniards being not well satisfied
110
gem for the Pirats. Unto this purpose, they order'd
three or four hundred men to come from
the City of Santo Domingo, not far distant from
this Port, and desired them to hunt in all the
parts thereabouts adjoyning to the Sea, to the intent
that if any Pirats should return, they might
find no subsistance. Within a few days the
same Pirats returned, with designe to hunt. But
finding nothing to kill, a party of them, being about
fifty in number, straggled farther on into
the Woods. The Spaniards, who watched all
their motions, gathered a great Herd of Cows,
and set two or three men to keep them. The
Pirats having spied this Herd, killed a sufficient
number thereof; and although the Spaniards
could see them at a distance, yet they would not
hinder their work for the present. But as soon
as they attempted to carry them away, they set
upon them with all fury imaginable, crying, Mata,
mata; that is, Kill, kill. Thus the Pirats
were soon compell'd to quit the prey, and retreat
towards their Ships as well as they could.
This they performed notwithstanding, in good
order, retiring from time to time by degrees;
and when they had any good opportunity, dis-
charging full Vollies of shot upon the Spaniards.
By this means the Pirats killed many of the Enemies,
though with some loss on their own side.
111
The rest of the Spaniards seeing what damage
they had sustained, endeavoured to save themselves
by flight, and carry off the dead bodies
and wounded of their Companions. The Pirats
perceiving them to flie, could not content themselves
with what hurt they had already done, but
pursued them speedily into the Woods, and killed
the greatest part of those that were remaining.
The next day Captain Morgan being extreamly
offended at what had passed, went himself
with two hundred men, into the Woods, to
seek for the rest of the Spaniards. But finding
no body there, he revenged his wrath upon the
houses of the poor and miserable Rusticks that
inhabit scatteringly those Fields and Woods; of
which he burnt a great number. With this he
returned unto his Ships, something more satisfied
in his mind, for having done some considerable
damage unto the Enemy; which was always his
most ardent desire.
The huge impatience wherewith Captain Morgan
had waited now this long while for some of
his Ships, which were not yet arrived, made him
resolve to set sail without them, and steer his
course for the Isle of Savona, the place he had
finding any of his Ships as yet come, he was
more impatient and concerned than before, as
fearing their loss, or that he must proceed without
112
arrival some few days longer. In the mean
while, having no great plenty of Provisions, he
sent a crew of one hundred and fifty men unto
the Isle of Hispaniola, to pillage some Towns that
were nigh unto the City of Santo Domingo. But
the Spaniards having had intelligence of their
coming, were now so vigilant, and in such good
posture of defence, as the Pirats thought it not
convenient to assault them; chusing rather to return
empty-handed unto Captain Morgan's presence,
than to perish in that desperate Enterprize.
At last, Captain Morgan seeing the other Ships
did not come, made a review of his People, and
found onely five hundred men, more or less.
The Ships that were wanting were seven, he having
onely eight in his company, of which, the
greatest part were very small. Thus having hitherto
resolved to cruze upon the coasts of Caracas,
and plunder all the Towns and Villages he
could meet, finding himself at present with such
small Forces, he changed his resolution, by the
Fleet. This French-man had served Lolonois in
like Enterprizes, and was at the taking of Maracaibo;
whereby he knew all the entries, passages,
forces, and means how to put in execution the
same again in the company of Captain Morgan.
113
he concluded to sack it again the second time, as
being himself perswaded, with all his men, of the
facility the French-man propounded. Hereupon
they weighed Anchor, and steered their course
towards Curasao. Being come within sight of
that Island, they landed at another, which is nigh
unto it, and is called Ruba, seated about twelve
leagues from Curasao, towards the West. This
Island is defended but by a slender Garison, and
is inhabited by Indians, who are subject to the
Crown of Spain, and speak Spanish, by reason of
the Roman Catholick Religion, which is here
cultivated by some few Priests that are sent from
time to time from the neighbouring Continent.
The Inhabitants of this Isle exercise a certain
Commerce or Trade with the Pirats that go and
Lambs, and Kids; which they exchange unto
them for Linnen, Thread, and other things of
this kind. The Country is very dry and barren,
the whole substance thereof consisting in
those three things abovementioned; and in a
small quantity of Wheat, which is of no bad
quality. This Isle produceth a great number of
venomous Insects, as Vipers, Spiders, and others.
These last are so pernicious here, that if any man
is bitten by them, he dieth mad. And the manner
of recovering such persons, is to tye them
114
to leave them for the space of four and
twenty hours, without eating or drinking the
least thing imaginable. Captain Morgan, as was
said, having cast Anchor before this Island, bought
of the Inhabitants many Sheep, Lambs, and also
Wood, which he needed for all his Fleet. Having
been there two days, he set sail again, in the
time of the night, to the intent they might not
see what course he steered.
The next day they arrived at the Sea of Maracaibo,
having always great care of not being
seen from Vigilia; for which reason they anchor'd
out of sight of the Watch-tower. Night being
come, they set sail again towards the Land, and
the next morning by break of day found themselves
directly over against the Bar of the Lake
abovementioned. The Spaniards had built another
Fort, since the action of Lolonois; from
whence they did now fire continually against the
Pirats, while they were putting their men into
Boats for to land. The Dispute continued very
hot on both sides, being managed with huge
courage and valour from morning till dark night.
This being come, Captain Morgan, in the obscurity
thereof, drew nigh unto the Fort. Which
having examined, he found no body in it; the Spa-
niards having deserted it not long before. They
left behind them a Match kindled nigh unto a
115
blow up the Pirats, and the whole Fortress, as
soon as they were in it. This designe had taken
effect, had the Pirats failed to discover it the
space of one quarter of an hour. But Captain
Morgan prevented the mischief, by snatching away
the Match with all speed, whereby he saved both
his own and his Companions lives. They found
here great quantity of Powder, whereof he provided
his Fleet; and afterwards demolished part
of the Walls, nailing sixteen pieces of Ordnance,
which carried from twelve to four and twenty
pound of Bullet. Here they found also great
number of Muskets, and other Military provisions.
The next day they commanded the Ships to
enter the Bar. Among which, they divided the
Powder, Muskets, and other things they found
in the Fort. These things being done, they im-
barked again, to continue their course towards
Maracaibo. But the Waters were very low,
whereby they could not pass a certain Bank that
lieth at the entry of the Lake. Hereupon they
were compelled to put themselves into Canows
and small Boats, with which they arrived the next
day before Maracaibo, having no other defence
but some small pieces which they could carry in
the said Boats. Being landed, they ran immediately
to the Fort called de la Barra; which
116
any person in it: For all were fled before
them into the Woods, leaving also the Town
without any people, unless a few miserable poor
folk, who had nothing to lose.
As soon as they had entred the Town, the Pirats
searched every corner thereof, to see if they
could find any people that were hidden, who
might offend them at unawares. Not finding
any body, every party, according as they came
out of their several Ships, chose what houses they
pleased to themselves, the best they could find.
The Church was deputed for the common Corps
de Garde, where they lived after their Military
manner committing many insolent actions. The
next day after their arrival, they sent a Troop
of one hundred men to seek for the Inhabitants
and their Goods. These returned the next day
following, bringing with them to the number of
thirty persons between men, women, and children;
and fifty Mules loaden with several good
Merchandize. All these miserable prisoners were
put to the Rack to make them confess where the
rest of the Inhabitants were, and their Goods.
Amongst other tortures then used, one was to
stretch their limbs with Cords, and at the same
time beat them with Sticks and other Instruments.
Others had burning Matches placed betwixt their
fingers, which were thus burnt alive. Others
117
heads, till their eyes bursted out of the skull.
Thus all sort of inhumane Cruelties were executed
upon those innocent people. Those who
would not confess, or who had nothing to declare,
died under the hands of those tyrannical
men. These Tortures and Racks continued for
the space of three whole weeks. In which time
they ceased not to send out, dayly, parties of
men to seek for more people to torment and
rob; they never returning home without Booty
and new Riches.
Captain Morgan having now gotten by degrees
into his hands about one hundred of the
chiefest Families, with all their Goods, at last re-
solved to go to Gibraltar, even as Lolonois had
done before. With this designe he equipped
his Fleet, providing it very sufficiently with all
necessary things. He put likewise on board all
the prisoners; and thus weighing Anchor, set
sail for the said place, with resolution to hazard
the Battel. They had sent before them some
prisoners unto Gibraltar, to denounce unto the
Inhabitants, they should surrender: otherwise
Captain Morgan would certainly put them all to
the sword, without giving quarter to any person
he should find alive. Not long after, he ar-
rived with his Fleet before Gibraltar, whose Inhabitants
received him with continual shooting
118
of fainting hereat, ceased not to encourage
one another, saying, We must make one meal upon
bitter things, before we come to taste the sweetness
of the Sugar this place affordeth.
The next day, very early in the morning, they
landed all their men. And being guided by the
French-man abovementioned, they marched towards
the Town, not by the common way, but
crossing through the Woods; which way the
Spaniards scarce thought they would have come.
For at the beginning of their march, they made
appearance as if they intended to come the next
and open way that led unto the Town, hereby
the better to deceive the Spaniards. But these
remembring, as yet, full well what Hostilities
Lolonois had committed upon them but two years
before, thought it not safe to expect the second
Brunt; and hereupon were all fled out of the
Town as fast as they could, carrying with them
all their Goods and Riches, as also all the Powder,
and having nailed all the great Guns. Insomuch as
the Pirats found not one person in the whole City,
excepting one onely poor and innocent man
who was born a fool. This man they asked
whither the Inhabitants were fled, and where
they had absconded their Goods. Unto all
which Questions and the like, he constantly made
answer, I know nothing, I know nothing. But
119
tur'd him with Cords; which torments forced
him to cry out, Do not torture me any more, but
come with me and I will shew you my Goods and
my Riches. They were perswaded, as it should
seem, he was some rich person who had disguised
himself under those cloaths so poor, as also that
innocent tongue. Hereupon they went along
with him; and he conducted them to a poor and
miserable Cottage, wherein he had a few Earthendishes,
and other things of little or no value;
and amongst these three Pieces of Eight, which
he had concealed with some other Trumpery
under ground. After this, they asked him his
name; and he readily made answer, My name is
Don Sebastian Sanchez, and I am Brother unto the
Governour of Maracaibo. This foolish Answer,
it must be conceived, these men, though never
so inhumane, took for a certain truth. For no
sooner had they heard it, but they put him again
upon the Rack, lifting him up on high with
Cords, and tying huge weights unto his feet and
neck. Besides which cruel and stretching torment,
they burnt him alive, applying Palm-leaves
burning unto his face. Under which miseries he
died in half an hour. After his death they cut
the Cords wherewith they had stretcht him, and
drag'd him forth into the adjoyning Woods,
where they left him without burial.
120
The same day they sent out a party of Pirats
to seek for the Inhabitants, upon whom they
might employ their inhumane Cruelties. These
two Daughters of his, whom they had taken prisoners,
and whom they intended to torture as
they used to do with others, in case they shewed
not the places where the Inhabitants had absconded
themselves. The Peasant knew some of
the said places, and hereupon seeing himself
threatned with the Rack, went with the Pirats to
shew them. But the Spaniards perceiving their
Enemies to range every-where up and down the
Woods, were already fled from thence much farther
off into the thickest parts of the said Woods,
where they built themselves Huts, to preserve
from the violence of the weather those few Goods
they had carried with them. The Pirats judged
themselves to be deceived by the said Peasant;
and hereupon, to revenge their wrath upon him,
notwithstanding all the excuses he could make,
and his humble supplications for his life, they
hanged him upon a Tree.
After this, they divided into several parties,
and went to search the Plantations. For they
knew the Spaniards that were absconded could
not live upon what they found in the Woods,
without coming now and then to seek provisions
at their own Country-houses. Here they found
121
tains of Gold, and that they would give him his
liberty by transporting him unto Jamaica, in case
he would shew them the places where the Inhabitants
of Gibraltar lay hidden. This fellow
conducted them unto a party of Spaniards, whom
they instantly made all Prisoners, commanding
the said Slave to kill some of them before the
eyes of the rest; to the intent that by this perpetrated
crime, he might never be able to leave
their wicked company. The Negro, according
to their orders, committed many murthers and
insolent actions upon the Spaniards, and followed
the unfortunate traces of the Pirats. Who after
the space of eight days, returned unto Gibraltar
with many prisoners, and some Mules laden with
Riches. They examined every prisoner by himself
(who were in all about two hundred and
fifty persons) where they had absconded the rest
of their Goods, and if they knew of their fellowTownsmen.
Such as would not confess, were
tormented after a most cruel and inhumane manner.
Among the rest, there happened to be a
certain Portuguese, who by the information of a
Negro was reported, though falsly, to be very
rich. This man was commanded to produce his
Riches. But his answer was, he had no more
than one hundred Pieces of Eight in the whole
world, and that these had been stolen from him
122
words, although he sealed with many Oaths and
Protestations, yet they would not believe him.
But dragging him unto the Rack, without any
regard unto his age, as being threescore years
old, they stretcht him with Cords, breaking both
his arms behind his shoulders.
This cruelty went not alone. For he not be-
than the abovesaid, they put him to another
sort of torment that was worser, and more barbarous
than the precedent. They tyed him with
small Cords by his two thumbs and great toes
unto four stakes that were fixt in the ground at
a convenient distance, the whole weight of his
body being pendent in the air upon those Cords.
Then they thrasht upon the Cords with great
Sticks and all their strength, so that the body of
this miserable man was ready to perish at every
stroke, under the severity of those horrible pains.
Not satisfied, as yet, with this cruel torture, they
took a stone which weighed above two hundred
pound, and laid it upon his belly, as if they intended
to press him to death. At which time
they also kindled Palm-leaves, and applied the
flame unto the face of this unfortunate Portuguese,
burning with them the whole skin, beard,
and hair. At last these cruel Tyrants seeing that
neither with these tortures nor others they could
123
and carried him, being almost half dead, unto the
Church, where was their Corps du Garde. Here
they tyed him anew unto one of the pillars thereof,
leaving him in that condition, without giving
him either to eat or drink, unless very sparingly,
and so little as would scarce sustain life, for some
days. Four or five being past, he desired that
one of the prisoners might have the liberty to
come unto him, by whose means he promised he
would endeavour to raise some money to satisfie
their demands. The prisoner whom he required,
was brought unto him; and he order'd him to
promise the Pirats five hundred Pieces of Eight
for his ransom. But they were both deaf and
obstinate at such a small sum, and instead of accepting
it, did bear him cruelly with Cudgels,
saying unto him, Old fellow, instead of five hundred,
you must say, five hundred thousand Pieces of
Eight, otherwise you shall here end your life. Finally,
after a thousand Protestations that he was
but a miserable man, and kept a poor Tavern for
his living, he agreed with them for the sum of
one thousand Pieces of Eight. These he raised
in few days, and having paid them unto the Pirats,
got his liberty; although so horribly maimed
in his body, that 'tis scarce to be believed he
could supervive many weeks after.
Several other tortures besides these, were exer-
124
not. Some were hang'd up by the Testicles, or
by their privy Members, and left in that condition
till they fell unto the ground, those private
parts being torn from their bodies. If with this
they were minded to shew themselves merciful
to those wretches, thus lacerated in the most tender
parts of their bodies, their mercy was to run them
through and through with their Swords; and by
this means rid them soon of their pains and lives.
Otherwise, if this were not done, they used to
lie four or five days under the agonies of death,
before dying. Others were crucified by these
Tyrants, and with kindled Matches were burnt
between the joynts of their fingers and toes. Others
had their feet put into the fire, and thus
were left to be roasted alive. At last, having used
both these and other Cruelties with the White
men, they began to practise the same over again
with the Negro's their Slaves; who were treated
with no less inhumanity than their Masters.
Among these Slaves was found one who promised
Captain Morgan to conduct him unto a
certain River belonging to the Lake, where he
should find a Ship and four Boats richly laden
with Goods that belonged unto the Inhabitants
of Maraicabo. The same Slave discovered likewise
the place where the Governour of Gibraltar
lay hidden, together with the greatest part of
125
through great menaces wherewith they
threatned to hang him, in case he told not what
he knew. Captain Morgan sent away presently
two hundred men in two Saëties, or great Boats,
towards the River abovementioned, to seek for
what the Slave had discovered. But he himself,
with two hundred and fifty more, undertook to
go and take the Governour. This Gentleman
was retired unto a small Island seated in the middle
of the River, where he had built a little Fort,
after the best manner he could, for his defence.
But hearing that Captain Morgan came in person
with great Forces to seek him, he retired farther
off unto the top of a Mountain not much distant
from that place; unto which there was no ascent,
but by a very narrow passage. Yea, this was
so streight, that whosoever did pretend to gain
the ascent, must of necessity cause his men to pass
one by one. Captain Morgan spent two days before
he could arrive at the little Island abovementioned.
From thence he designed to proceed
unto the Mountain where the Governour was
posted, had he not been told of the impossibility
he should find in the ascent; not onely for the
narrowness of the path that led to the top, but
also because the Governour was very well provided
with all sorts of Ammunition above. Besides
that, there was fallen an huge Rain, whereby
126
their Powder, was wet. By this Rain also they
had lost many of their men at the passage over
a River that was overflown. Here perished
likewise some women and children, and many
Mules laden with Plate and other Goods; all
which they had taken in the Fields from the fugitive
Inhabitants. So that all things were in a
very bad condition with Captain Morgan, and the
bodies of his men as much harrassed, as ought to
be inferr'd from this relation. Whereby, if the
Spaniards in that juncture of time had had but a
Troop of fifty men well arm'd with Pikes or
Spears, they might have entirely destroyed the
Pirats, without any possible resistance on their
sides. But the fears which the Spaniards had
conceived from the beginning, were so great, that
onely hearing the leaves on the Trees to stir, they
often fancied them to be Pirats. Finally, Captain
Morgan and his People having upon this
march sometimes waded up to their middles in
water for the space of half or whole miles together,
they at last escaped for the greatest part.
But of the women and children that they brought
home prisoners, the major part died.
Thus 12 days after they set forth to seek the Governour,
they returned unto Gibraltar with a great
number of prisoners. Two days after, arrived also
the two Saëties that went unto the River, bringing
127
as to the greatest part of the Merchandize that
were in the said Boats, they found them not, the
Spaniards having unladed and secured them, as
having intelligence before-hand of the coming of
the Pirats. Whereupon they designed also,
when the Merchandize were all taken out, to
burn the Boats. Yet the Spaniards made not so
much haste as was requisite to unlade the said
Vessels, but that they left both in the Ship and
Boats great parcels of Goods, which, they being
fled from thence, the Pirats seized, and brought
thereof a considerable Booty unto Gibraltar.
Thus after they had been in possession of the
place five entire weeks, and committed there infinite
number of Murthers, Robberies, Rapes,
and such-like Insolencies, they concluded upon
their departure. But before this could be performed,
for the last proof of their tyranny, they
gave orders unto some prisoners to go forth into
the Woods and Fields, and collect a Ransom for
the Town; otherwise they would certainly burn
every house down to the ground. Those poor
afflicted men went forth as they were sent. And
after they had searched every corner of the adjoyning
Fields and Woods, they returned unto
Captain Morgan, telling him, they had scarce
been able to find any body. But that unto such
as they had found, they had proposed his demands;
128
the Governour had prohibited them to give any
Ransom for not burning the Town. But notwithstanding
any prohibition to the contrary,
they beseeched him to have a little patience, and
among themselves they would collect to the sum
of five thousand Pieces of Eight. And for the
rest, they would give him some of their own
Townsmen as Hostages, whom he might carry
with him to Maracaibo, till such time as he had
received full satisfaction.
Captain Morgan having now been long time
absent from Maracaibo, and knowing the Spaniards
had had sufficient time wherein to fortifie
themselves, and hinder his departure out of the
Lake, granted them their Proposition abovementioned;
and withal, made as much haste as he
could to set things in order for his departure.
He gave liberty to all the prisoners, having before-hand
put them every one to the ransom;
yet he detained all the Slaves with him. They
delivered unto him four persons that were agreed
upon for Hostages of what sums of money more
he was to receive from them: and they desired
to have the Slave of whom we made mention above,
intending to punish him according to his
deserts. But Captain Morgan would not deliver
him, being perswaded they would burn him alive.
At last they weighed Anchor, and set sail
129
course towards Maracaibo. Here they arrived in
four days, and found all things in the same posture
they had left them when they departed.
Yet here they received news, from the information
of a poor distressed old man, who was sick,
and whom alone they found in the Town, That
three Spanish Men of War were arrived at the
entry of the Lake, and there waited for the return
of the Pirats out of those parts. Moreover,
that the Castle at the entry thereof, was again
put into a good posture of defence, being well
provided with great Guns and men, and all sorts
of Ammunition.
This relation of the old man could not chuse
Morgan, who now was careful how to get away
through those narrow passages of the entry
of the Lake. Hereupon he sent one of his Boats,
the swiftest he had, to view the entry, and see if
things were as they had been related. The next
day the Boat came back, confirming what was
said, and assuring, they had viewed the Ships so
nigh, that they had been in great danger of the
shot they had made at them. Hereunto they
added that the biggest Ship was mounted with
forty Guns, the second with thirty, and the smallest
with four and twenty. These Forces were
much beyond those of Captain Morgan; and
130
the Pirats, whose biggest Vessel had not above
fourteen small Guns. Every one judged Captain
Morgan to despond in his mind, and be destitute
of all manner of hopes, considering the
difficulty either of passing safely with his little
Fleet amidst those great Ships and the Fort, or
that he must perish. How to escape any other
way by Sea or by Land, they saw no opportunity
nor convenience. Onely they could have
wished that those three Ships had rather come over
the Lake to seek them at Maracaibo, than to
remain at the mouth of the Streight where they
were. For at that passage they must of necessity
fear the ruine of their Fleet, which consisted
onely for the greatest part of Boats.
Hereupon, being necessitated to act as well as
he could, Captain Morgan resumed new courage,
and resolved to shew himself, as yet, undaunted
with these terrours. To this intent he boldly
sent a Spaniard unto the Admiral of those three
Ships, demanding of him a considerable Tribute
or Ransom for not putting the City of Maracaibo
to the flame. This man (who doubtless
was received by the Spaniards with great admiration
of the confidence and boldness of those Pirats)
returned two days after, bringing unto
Captain Morgan a Letter from the said Admiral,
whose Contents were as followeth.
131
Letter of Don Alonso del Campo and Espinosa, Admiral
of the Spanish Fleet, unto Captain Morgan
Commander of the Pirats.
HAving understood by all our Friends and
have dared to attempt and commit Hostilities in the
Countries, Cities, Towns, and Villages belonging unto
the Dominions of his Catholick Majesty, my soveraign
Lord and Master; I let you understand by
these lines, that I am come unto this place, according
to my obligation, nigh unto that Castle which you
took out of the hands of a parcel of Cowards; where
I have put things into a very good posture of defence,
and mounted again the Artillery which you
had nailed and dismounted. My intent is to dispute
with you your passage out of the Lake, and follow
and pursue you every-where, to the end you may
see the performance of my duty. Notwithstanding,
if you be contented to surrender with humility all
that you have taken, together with the Slaves and
all other prisoners, I will let you freely pass, without
trouble or molestation; upon condition that you
retire home presently unto your own Country. But
in case that you make any resistance or opposition unthese
things that I proffer unto you, I do assure you
I will command Boats to come from Caracas, wherein
I will put my Troops, and coming to Maracaibo,
132
man to the sword. This is my last and absolute resolution.
Be prudent therefore, and do not abuse
my bounty with ingratitude. I have with me very
good Souldiers, who desire nothing more ardently,
than to revenge on you and your People, all the cruelties
and base infamous actions you have committed
upon the Spanish Nation in America. Dated on
board the Royal Ship named the Magdalen, lying
at Anchor at the entry of the Lake of Maracaibo,
this 24th day of April, 1669.
Don Alonso del Campo y Espinosa.
As soon as Captain Morgan had received this
Letter, he called all his men together in the
Contents thereof, both in French and English,
he asked their advice and resolutions upon the
whole matter, and whether they had rather surrender
all they had purchased, to obtain their liberty,
than fight for it?
They answered all unanimously, They had
rather fight, and spill the very last drop of bloud
they had in their veins, than surrender so easily
the Booty they had gotten with so much danger
who said unto Captain Morgan, Take you care for
133
those Ships with onely twelve men. The manner
shall be, by making a Brulot or Fire-ship of that
Vessel we took in the River of Gibraltar. Which,
to the intent she may not be known for a Fire-ship,
we will fill her Decks with logs of wood, standing
with Hats and Montera-caps, to deceive their sight
with the representation of men. The same we will
do at the Port-holes that serve for the Guns, which
shall be filled with counterfeit Cannon. At the
Stern we will hang out the English Colours, and
perswade the Enemy she is one of our best Men of
War that goeth to fight them. This Proposition
being heard by the Junta, was admitted and ap-
proved of by every one; howbeit their fears were
not quite dispersed.
For notwithstanding what had been concluded
there, they endeavoured the next day to see
if they could come to an accommodation with
Don Alonso. Unto this effect Captain Morgan
sent him two persons, with these following Propositions.
First, That he would quit Maracaibo,
without doing any damage to the Town, nor exacting
any Ransom for the firing thereof. Secondly, That
he would set at liberty the one half of the Slaves,
and likewise all other Prisoners, without Ransom.
Thirdly, That he would send home freely the four
chief Inhabitants of Gibraltar, which he had in his
custody as Hostages for the Contributions those people
134
the Pirats being understood by Don Alonso, were
instantly rejected every one, as being dishonourable
for him to grant. Neither would he hear
any word more of any other accommodation;
but sent back this Message: That in case they
surrendred not themselves voluntarily into his hands,
within the space of two days, under the Conditions
which he had offered them by his Letter, he would
immediately come and force them to do it.
No sooner had Captain Morgan received this
in order to fight, resolving to get out of the Lake
by main force, and without surrendring any
thing. In the first place, he commanded all the
Slaves and Prisoners to be tyed and guarded very
well. After this, they gathered all the Pitch,
Tar, and Brimstone they could find in the whole
Town, therewith to prepare the Fire-ship abovementioned.
Likewise they made several inventions
of Powder and Brimstone, with great quantity
of Palm-leaves, very well ointed with Tar.
They covered very well their counterfeit Cannon,
laying under every piece thereof, many
pounds of Powder. Besides which, they cut
down many out-works belonging to the Ship, to
the end the Powder might exert its strength the
better. Thus they broke open also new Portholes;
where, instead of Guns they placed little
[ILLUSTRATION]
135
the Decks were handsomly beset with many
pieces of wood dressed up in the shape of men
with Hats, or Montera's, and likewise armed with
Swords, Muskets, and Bandeleers.
The Brulot or Fire-ship being thus fitted to
their purpose, they prepared themselves to go to
put into one great Boat, and in another of the
biggest they placed all the Women, Plate, Jewels,
and other rich things which they had. Into
others they put all the bales of Goods and Merchandize,
and other things of greatest bulk.
Each of these Boats had twelve men on board,
very well armed. The Brulot had orders to go
before the rest of the Vessels, and presently to
fall foul with the great Ship. All things being
in a readiness, Captain Morgan exacted an Oath
of all his Comrades, whereby they protested to
defend themselves against the Spaniards, even to
the last drop of bloud, without demanding quarter
at any rate: promising them withal, that
whosoever thus behaved himself, should be very
well rewarded.
With this disposition of mind, and couragious
resolution, they set sail to seek the Spaniards, on
the 30th day of April 1669. They found the
Spanish Fleet riding at Anchor in the middle of
the entry of the Lake. Captain Morgan, it being
136
Vessels to come to an Anchor; with designe to
fight from thence even all night, if they should
provoke him thereunto. He gave orders that a
careful and vigilant Watch should be kept on
board every Vessel till the morning, they being
almost within shot, as well as within sight of the
Enemy. The dawning of the day being come,
they weighed Anchors, and set sail again, steering
their course directly towards the Spaniards;
who observing them to move, did instantly the
same. The Fire-ship sailing before the rest, fell
presently upon the great Ship, and grappled to
her sides in a short while. Which by the Spaniards
being perceived to be a Fire-ship, they attempted
to escape the danger by putting her off;
but in vain, and too late. For the flame suddenly
seized her Timber and Tackling, and in a
short space consumed all the Stern, the forepart
sinking into the Sea, whereby she perished. The
second Spanish Ship perceiving the Admiral to
burn, not by accident, but by industry of the Enemy,
escaped towards the Castle, where the
Spaniards themselves caused her to sink; chusing
this way of losing their Ship, rather than to
fall into the hands of those Pirats, which they held
for inevitable. The third, as having no opportunity
nor time to escape, was taken by the Pirats.
The Sea-men that sank the second Ship
137
come towards them to take what remains they
could find of their Shipwrack, (for some part
of the Bulk was extant above water) set fire in
like manner unto this Vessel, to the end the Pirats
might enjoy nothing of that spoil. The
first Ship being set on fire, some of the persons
that were in her swam towards the shore. These
the Pirats would have taken up in their Boats;
but they would neither ask nor admit of any
quarter, chusing rather to lose their lives, than
receive them from the hands of their Persecutors,
for such reasons as I shall relate hereafter.
The Pirats were extreamly gladded at this
signal Victory obtained in so short a time, and
with so great inequality of Forces; whereby
they conceived greater pride in their minds than
they had before. Hereupon they all presently
they found very well provided both with men,
great Cannon and Ammunition; they having no
other Arms than Muskets, and a few Fire-balls in
their hands. Their own Artillery they thought
incapable, for its smalness, of making any considerable
breach in the Walls. Thus they spent
the rest of that day, firing at the Garison with
their Muskets, till the dusk of the evening; at
which time they attempted to advance nigher
138
Fire-balls. But the Spaniards resolving to sell
their lives as dear as they could, continued firing
so furiously at them, as they thought it not convenient
to approach any nearer, nor persist any
longer in that dispute. Thus having experimented
the obstinacy of the Enemy, and seeing
thirty of their own men already dead, and as
many more wounded, they retired unto their
Ships.
The Spaniards believing the Pirats would return
the next day to renew the attack, as also
make use of their own Cannon against the Castle,
laboured very hard all night, to put all
things in order for their coming. But more particularly
they employed themselves that night in
digging down and making plain some little hills
and eminent places, from whence possibly the
Castle might be offended.
But Captain Morgan intended not to come ashore
again, busying himself the next day in ta-
king prisoners some of the men who still swam
alive upon the Waters, and hoping to get part
of the Riches that were lost in the two Ships that
perished. Among the rest he took a certain Pilot,
who was a stranger, and who belonged unto the
lesser Ship of the two, with whom he held much
discourse, enquiring of him several things. Such
questions were, What number of people those
139
any more Ships to come? From what Port
they set forth the last time, when they came to
seek them out? His answer unto all these questions,
was as followeth; which he delivered in
the Spanish Tongue: `Noble Sir, be pleased to
pardon and spare me, that no evil be done unto
me, as being a stranger unto this Nation I have
served, and I shall sincerely inform you of all
that passed till our arrival at this Lake. We
were sent by orders from the Supreme Council
of State in Spain, being six Men of War well
equipped, into these Seas, with instructions to
cruze upon the English Pirats, and root them out
from these parts by destroying as many of them
as we could.
These Orders were given, by reason of the
news brought unto the Court of Spain of the
loss and ruine of Puerto Velo, and other places.
Of all which Damages and Hostilities committed
here by the English, very dismal lamentations
have often-times penetrated the ears both
of the Catholick King and Council, unto whom
belongeth the care and preservation of this new
World. And although the Spanish Court hath
many times by their Embassadours sent Complaints
hereof unto the King of England; yet
it hath been the constant answer of his Majesty
of Great Britain, That he never gave any Letters-patents
140
Hostility whatsoever, against the Subjects of the
King of Spain. Hereupon the Catholick King,
being resolved to revenge his Subjects, and punish
these proceedings, commanded six Men of
War to be equipped; which he sent into these
parts under the command of Don Augustin de
Bustos, who was constituted Admiral of the said
Fleet. He commanded the biggest Ship thereof,
named Na Sa de la Soledad, mounted with
eight and forty great Guns, and eight small ones.
The Vice-Admiral was Don Alonso del Campo y
Espinosa, who commanded the second Ship called
la Concepcion, which carried forty four great
Guns, and eight small ones. Besides which
Vessels, there were also four more; whereof
the first was named the Magdalen, and was
mounted with thirty six great Guns, and
twelve small ones, having on board two hundred
and fifty men. The second was called
St. Lewis, with twenty six great Guns, twelve
small ones, and two hundred men. The third
was called la Marquesa, which carried sixteen
great Guns, eight small ones, and one hundred
and fifty men. The fourth and last, Na Sa
del Carmen, with eighteen great Guns, eight
small ones, and likewise one hundred and fifty
men.
`We were now arrived at Cartagena, when the
141
Spain, as being judged too big for cruzing
upon these Coasts. With the four Ships remaining,
Don Alonso del Campo y Espinosa departed
from thence towards Campeche, to seek
out the English. We arrived at the Port of
the said City, where being surprized by a huge
Storm that blew from the North, we lost one
of our four Ships; being that which I named
in the last place among the rest. From hence
we set sail for the Isle of Hispaniola; in sight of
which we came within few days, and directed
our course unto the Port of Santo Domingo.
Here we received intelligence there had passed
that way a Fleet from Jamaica, and that some
men thereof having landed at a place called Alta
Gracia, the Inhabitants had taken one of
them prisoner, who confessed their whole designe
was to go and pillage the City of Caracas.
With these news Don Alonso instantly weighed
Anchor, and set sail from thence, crossing over
unto the Continent, till we came in sight of Caracas.
Here we found not the English; but
happened to meet with a Boat which certified
us they were in the Lake of Maracaibo, and that
the Fleet consisted of seven small Ships and one
Boat.
`Upon this intelligence we arrived here; and
coming nigh unto the entry of the Lake, we
142
Those on land perceiving that we were Spaniards,
came willingly unto us with a Pilot, and told us
that the English had taken the City of Maracaibo,
and that they were at present at the pillage of
Gibraltar. Don Alonso having understood this
news, made a handsom Speech unto all his Souldiers
and Mariners, encouraging them to perform
their duty, and withal promising to divide
among them all they should take from the English.
After this, he gave order that the Guns
which we had taken out of the Ship that was
lost, should be put into the Castle, and there
mounted for its defence, with two pieces more
out of his own Ship, of eighteen pounds port
each. The Pilots conducted us into the Port,
and Don Alonso commanded the people that
were on shore to come unto his presence, unto
whom he gave orders to repossess the Castle,
and re-enforce it with one hundred men
more than it had before its being taken by the
English. Not long after, we received news
that you were returned from Gibraltar unto
Maracaibo; unto which place Don Alonso wrote
you a Letter, giving you account of his arrival
and designe, and withal exhorting you to restore
all that you had taken. This you refused to
do; whereupon he renewed his promises and
intentions unto his Souldiers and Sea-men. And
143
People, he perswaded them neither to take nor
give any quarter unto the English that should
fall into their hands. This was the occasion of
so many being drowned, who dared not to crave
any quarter for their lives, as knowing their own
intentions of giving none. Two days before
you came against us, a certain Negro came on
board Don Alonso's Ship, telling him, Sir, be
pleased to have great care of your self; for the
English have prepared a Fire-ship with designe to
burn your Fleet. But Don Alonso would not believe
this intelligence, his answer being, How
can that be? Have they, peradventure, wit enough
to build a Fire-ship? or what Instruments
have they to do it withal?
The Pilot abovementioned having related so
Morgan, was very well used by him, and after
some kind proffers made unto him, remained in
his service. He discovered moreover unto Capt.
Morgan, that in the Ship which was sunk, there was
a great quantity of Plate, even to the value of
forty thousand Pieces of Eight. And that this was
certainly the occasion they had oftentimes seen
the Spaniards in Boats about the said Ship. Hereupon
Capt. Morgan ordered that one of his Ships
should remain there to watch all occasions of getting
out of the said Vessel what Plate they could.
144
returned unto Maracaibo, where he refitted the
great Ship he had taken of the three aforementioned.
And now being well accommodated,
he chose it for himself; giving his own bottom
to one of his Captains.
After this he sent again a Messenger unto the
Admiral, who was escaped on shore and got into
the Castle, demanding of him a Tribute or Ransom
of fire for the Town of Maracaibo; which
being denied, he threatned he would entirely
consume and destroy it. The Spaniards considering
how unfortunate they had been all along
with those Pirats, and not knowing after what
manner to get rid of them, concluded among
themselves to pay the said Ransom, although Don
Alonso would not consent unto it.
Hereupon they sent unto Captain Morgan to
ask what sum he demanded. He answered them,
he would have thirty thousand Pieces of Eight,
and five hundred Beeves, to the intent his Fleet
might be well victualled with flesh. This Ransom
being paid, he promised in such case he
would give no farther trouble unto the prisoners,
nor cause any ruine or damage unto the Town.
Finally, they agreed with him upon the sum of
hundred Beeves. The Cattel the Spaniards
brought in the next day, together with one part
145
in the salting of the Flesh, they returned with the
rest of the whole sum of twenty thousand Pieces
of Eight, for which they had agreed.
But Captain Morgan would not deliver, for
that present, the prisoners, as he had promised to
do, by reason he feared the shot of the Artillery
of the Castle at his going forth of the Lake.
Hereupon he told them he intended not to deliver
them, till such time as he was out of that danger;
hoping by this means to obtain a free passage.
Thus he set sail with all his Fleet in quest
of that Ship which he had left behind, to seek for
the Plate of the Bessel that was burnt. He found
Pieces of Eight, which they had purchased
out of the wrack; besides many other pieces of
Plate, as hilts of Swords, and other things of this
kind. Also great quantity of Pieces of Eight that
were melted and run together by the force of the
first of the said Ship.
Captain Morgan scarce thought simself secure,
neither could he contrive how to evite the damages
the said Castle might cause unto his Fleet.
Hereupon he told the prisoners it was necessary
they should agree with the Govenour to open
the passage with security for his Fleet. Unto
which point if he should not consent, he would
certainly hang them all up in his Ships. After
146
upon the persons they should depute unto the
said Governour Don Alonso; and they assign'd some
few among them for that Embassie. These went
unto him, beseeching and supplicating the Admiral
he would have compassion and pity on those
afflicted prisoners who were as yet, together with
their Wives and Children, in the hands of Captain
Morgan. And that unto this effect he would
be pleased to give his word to let the whole Fleet
of Pirats freely pass, without any molestation.
Forasmuch as this would be the onely remedy of
saving both the lives of them that came with this
Petition, as also of those who remained behind
in captivity; all being equally menaced with the
Sword and gallows, in case he granted not this
humble Request. But Don Alonso gave them for
answer a sharp reprehension of their cowardize,
telling them, If you had been as loyal unto your
King in hindring the entry of these Pirats, as I shall
do their going out, you had never caused these troubles
neither unto your selves, nor unto our whole Nation;
which hath suffered so much through your
pusillanimity. In a word, I shall never grant your
Request; but shall endeavour to maintain that respect
which is due unto my King, according to my
duty.
Thus the Spaniards returned unto their fellow-prisoners,
with much consternation of mind,
147
unto Captain Morgan what answer they had
received. His reply was, If Don Alonso will
not let me pass, I will find means how to do it without
him. Hereupon he began presently to make
a Dividend of all the Booty they had taken in
that Voyage, fearing lest he might not have an
opportunity of doing it in another place; if any
Tempest should arise and separate the Ships.
As also being jealous that any of the Commanders
might run away with the best part of the
Spoil; which then did lie much more in one
Vessel than another. Thus they all brought in,
according to their Laws, and declared what they
had; having before-hand made an Oath not to
conceal the least thing from the publick. The
accounts being cast up, they found to the value
of two hundred and fifty thousand Pieces of
Eight in Money and Jewels, besides the huge
quantity of Merchandize and Slaves. All which
Purchase was divided unto every Ship or Boat, according
to their share.
The Dividend being made, the Question still
remained on foot, how they should pass the Castle,
and get out of the Lake. Unto this effect
they made use of a Stratagem, of no ill invention,
which was as followeth. On the day that pre-
forth, they embarked many of their men in Canows,
148
designed to land them. Here they concealed
themselves under the branches of Trees that hang
over the coast, for a while, till they had laid
themselves down along in the Boats. Then the
Canows returned unto the Ships, with the onely
appearance of two or three men rowing them
back, all the rest being concealed at the bottom
of the Canows. Thus much onely could be
perceived from the Castle; and this action of
false-landing of men, for so we may call it, was
repeated that day several times. Hereby the
Spaniards were brought into perswasion the Pirats
intended to force the Castle by scaling it, as
soon as night should come. This fear caused
them to place most of their great Guns on that
side which looketh towards the Land, together
with the main force of their Arms, leaving the
contrary side belonging to the Sea, almost destitute
of strength and defence.
Night being come, they weighed Anchor, and
by the light of the Moon, without setting sail,
committed themselves to the ebbing Tyde, which
gently brought them down the River, till they
were nigh unto the Castle. Being now almost
over against it, they spread their Sails with all
the haste they could possibly make. The Spaniards
perceiving them to escape, transported
with all speed their Guns from the other side of
149
the Pirats. But these having a favourable wind,
were almost past the danger, before those of the
Castle could put things into convenient order of
offence. So that the Pirats lost not many of their
men, nor received any considerable damage in
their Ships. Being now out of the reach of the
Guns, Captain Morgan sent a Canow unto the
Castle with some of the prisoners; and the Go-
vernour thereof gave them a Boat that every one
might return to his own home. Notwithstanding,
he detained the Hostages he had from Gi-
braltar, by reason those of that Town were not
as yet come to pay the rest of the Ransom for not
firing the place. Just as he departed, Captain
Morgan ordered seven great Guns with Bullets to
be fired against the Castle, as it were to take his
leave of them. But they answered not so much
as with a Musket-shot.
The next day after their departure, they were
surprized with a great Tempest, which forced
fathom water. But the Storm increased so much,
that they were compelled to weigh again, and
put out to Sea, where they were in great danger
of being lost. For if on either side they should
have been cast on shore, either to fall into the
hands of the Spaniards, or of the Indians, they
would certainly have obtained no mercy. At
150
which caused much content and joy in the whole
Fleet.
Mean while Captain Morgan made his fortune
by pillaging the Towns abovementioned, the rest
of his Companions, who separated from his Fleet
at the Cape de Lobos for to take the Ship of which
was spoken before, endured much misery, and
were very unfortunate in all their attempts. For
being arrived at the Isle of Savona, they found
not Captain Morgan there, nor any one of their
Companions. Neither had they the good fortune
to finde a Letter which Captain Morgan at
his departure left behind him in a certain place,
where in all probability they would meet with it.
Thus, not knowing what course to steer, they at
last concluded to pillage some Town or other,
whereby to seek their fortune. They were in
all four hundred men, more or less; who were
divided into four Ships and one Boat. Being
ready to set forth, they constituted an Admiral
among themselves, by whom they might be directed
in the whole affair. Unto this effect they
chose a certain person who had behaved himself
very couragiously at the taking of Puerto Velo, and
whose name was Captain Hansel. This Commander
resolved to attempt the taking of the
Town of Commana, seated upon the Continent
of Caracas, nigh threescore leagues from the Westside
151
there, they landed their men, and killed some
few Indians that were near unto the coast. But
approaching unto the Town, the Spaniards, ha-
ving in their company many Indians, disputed
them the entry so briskly, that with great loss, and
in great confusion, they were forced to retire towards
their Ships. At last they arrived at Jamaica,
where the rest of their Companions who
came with Captain Morgan, ceased not to mock
and jear them for their ill success at Commana,
often telling them, Let us see what money you
brought from Commana; and if it be as good Silver
as that which we bring from Maracaibo.
BOOKS Printed for William Crooke this Year
1684.
1. A New Survey of the present State of Europe, containing
Remarks upon several Sovereign and Republican States,
with Memoires Historical, Chronological, Topographical, Hydrographical,
Political, &c. By G. Pontier, Chief Prothonoter
of Rome. Englished by John Beaumount, Author of
the Weekly Memorials. In 80. price bound 2 s. 6 d.
2. The Reports of Edward Littleton, Lord Keeper of England.
In Folio, price bound 12 s.
3. The Græcian Story, being an Historical Poem, in Five
Books in imitation of the Fairy Queen and Gondibert. To which
is annexed the Grove. By J.H. Esq; 40 price bound 4 s.
4. A Discourse about Conscience, relating to the present
Differences among us, in opposition to both Extreams, of Pepery
and Fanaticism. 40. price 6 d.
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