Document: Dutch colonial council minutes, 2 January - 21 February 1649

Anno 1649 The 2nd of January

Cornelis Melyn presented to the council a letter from their High and Mighty Lords the States General of the United Provinces of the Netherlands and one from his Highness the Prince of Orange to the honorable director general. Having seen and read therein the commands of the aforesaid High and Mighty Lords and his princely Highness of Orange, we humbly acknowledge that we are ready to execute and obey their honors’ orders and commands in every respect. We have therefore provisionally granted permission to Cornelis Melyn to support himself in New Netherland like other inhabitants, whereupon he has taken the proper oath of fidelity before the council. Present: the honorable director general, van Dincklagen, second in authority, La Montagne and Fiscal van Dyck. Below was written: To my knowledge, and signed, Cor: van Tienhoven, secretary.

The 16th of January

Resolved and concluded in council to send out notice to hold a general day of fasting and prayer on February first next ensuing to thank and praise God for the peace concluded and secured between the King of Spain and our dear fatherland; also to pray God Almighty that the same may redound to the glory of God, the welfare of the fatherland and the prosperity of its inhabitants. Present: the honorable general, L. Dincklagen, La Montagne, Briant Nuton, Poulus Leendertsz. To my knowledge: Cor: van Tienhoven, secretary.

[1]Whereas the select man have at divers times requested by petition to have a delegation sent to the fatherland to address our superiors on some weighty matters, and whereas the English villages on Long Island which are under the Jurisdiction of their High Mightinesses ought also according to our best Judgment to be consulted about this important matter, in order that hereafter they may not plead ignorance thereof, it is resolved in council to summon them by letter to appear on the appointed day. Thus done and approved. Present: the honorable general, the honorable deputy, La Montagne, Briant Nuton, Poulus Leendersz. This day, the 21st of February.