Document: Dutch colonial council minutes, 25 September - 9 October 1642

On the 25th of September 1642

Whereas some dispute has arisen on the South river between our people and Mr. Lammerton, who came there within our limits without our permission and against our will, we have approved the action of our people and to that end granted these presents to Maryn Adriaensen as we understood that our people are threatened by those of the Rodeberch. Therefore all those to whom these presents shall be shown are warned to leave the bearer unmolested and if they have anything to say regarding the matter aforesaid to be pleased to refer the same to us, we being at all time ready to answer their complaints.

On the 2d of October 1642

Whereas Mr. Trochmarten and his Company ask permission to settle with 35 families under the Jurisdiction of their High Mightinesses the Lords States General and to live in peace, provided they enjoy the same benefits as other inhabitants and have the free exercise of their religion; therefore, having considered the request of the aforesaid Mr. Trochmarten and taken into consideration the desire of the honorable Company, inasmuch as this request does not tend to injure this country, the more so as the English intend to settle about three miles from us [ their said request is granted. ]

On the 9th of October 1642

Cornelis Melyn, plaintiff, vs. Egbert Woutersz, as husband and guardian of Engel Jans, defendant, for certain damage done him according to the bill of complaint filed by the plaintiff, requesting redress for the violence committed in carrying off his servant girl by night from his land and firing guns and muskets, which is said to have been done by Adriaen Pietersz.

Adriaen Pietersz admits that he took the maid in the yawl with her consent from Melyn's land. Parties having been heard it is ordered that the pretended bride Elsjen shall be delivered into our hands next Thursday forenoon, and that the fiscal shall make further inquiry. Meanwhile Adriaen shall remain under arrest on this island until the case is decided and be furnished with a copy of the bill of complaint.