Document: Action of debt: Dirck Keyser vs. John Roelofsen

Extraordinary Session Held in Fort OrangeJuly 18, 1657

President, Johannes La MontagneJacob SchermerhoornPhilip PietersenMaster Abraham StaetsJan TomassenGoossen GerritsenAdriaen Gerritsenmagistrates

Dirck Keyser, plaintiff, againstJan Roeloffsen, defendant.The plaintiff demands payment of thirteen beavers for merchandise that was delivered to the defendant and his partner, Jacobus Loockermans.The defendant claims that his partner. Jacobus Loockermans, paid the beavers that were demanded and produces a daybook in which was written by way of memorandum that thirteen beavers were received and paid.The plaintiff produces his book, showing by the defendant’s account that the defendant still owes the plaintiff thirteen beavers.The court, having heard both parties and examined both the books, asks the defendant to swear to them, which he refuses to do, demanding that according to law the plaintiff swear to his book, which he does in our presence.The court, therefore, condemns the defendant to pay the number of thirteen beavers demanded, cash, and in addition the costs of the suit, estimated at 28 guilders.