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. |
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| VII. | Chap. VII. |
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 | Chap. VII. Bucaniers of America: |  |
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
| Chap. VII. Bucaniers of America: | |